115 HR 3747 IH: Freezing Assets of Suspected Terrorists and Enemy Recruits Act of 2017
U.S. House of Representatives
2017-09-12
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.

I115th CONGRESS1st SessionH. R. 3747IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVESSeptember 12, 2017Mr. Gottheimer (for himself, Mr. Fitzpatrick, and Mr. Reed) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition to the Committee on Financial Services, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such
			 provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concernedA BILLTo require financial institutions to freeze the assets of individuals arrested under suspicion of
			 participating in domestic terrorism or providing material support to
			 terrorists, to establish a national clearinghouse for information on
			 incidents of homegrown lone wolf terrorism, domestic terrorism, and persons providing material support to terrorists, and for other
			 purposes.

 1.Short titleThis Act may be cited as the Freezing Assets of Suspected Terrorists and Enemy Recruits Act of 2017 or the FASTER Act of 2017. 2.Freezing of assets of domestic terror suspects (a)In generalIf an individual is arrested by a Federal law enforcement agency (or by a State or local law enforcement agency and subsequently turned over to a Federal law enforcement agency) under suspicion of participating in domestic terrorism or providing material support to terrorists, such Federal law enforcement agency shall notify FinCEN of such arrest and, upon such notification, FinCEN shall order each financial institution holding assets of the individual to freeze such assets.
			(b)Disposition of assets
 (1)Notice of freezingFinCEN shall, as soon as practicable, but not later than 60 days after ordering a financial institution to freeze an individual’s assets under subsection (a), notify such individual of such asset freezing.
				(2)Right to contest
 (A)In generalA Federal district court of competent jurisdiction shall, on motion by an individual whose assets have been frozen under this section, order the individual’s assets unfrozen unless the Government establishes by probable cause that such assets are subject to seizure under this section.
					(B)Representation
 (i)In generalIf an individual whose assets have been frozen under this section is financially unable to obtain representation by counsel with respect to the motion described under subparagraph (A), the court may order the individual’s assets unfrozen in an amount necessary to pay for such counsel, and such unfrozen funds may only be used to pay for such counsel.
 (ii)Factors to considerIn determining whether to order the unfreezing of funds under clause (i), a court shall take into account the individual’s standing to bring such a motion and whether the motion appears to be made in good faith.
 (3)Unfreezing of propertyFinCEN shall order an individual’s assets unfrozen if— (A)FinCEN does not provide the notice described under paragraph (1) within 60 days of ordering the assets frozen;
 (B)a criminal indictment is not filed against the individual with respect to participation in domestic terrorism or providing material support to terrorists within 90 days after FinCEN orders the assets frozen; or
 (C)the individual is tried for domestic terrorism or providing material support to terrorists and is not convicted.
 (4)Confiscation upon convictionIf an individual whose assets have been frozen under this section is convicted of domestic terrorism or providing material support to terrorists, FinCEN shall—
 (A)confiscate all such assets that were involved in such crime, or that constitute or derive from proceeds traceable to such crime, and may—
 (i)distribute assets to victims of the individual; (ii)transfer assets to the Attorney General for distribution to law enforcement for counterterrorism purposes; or
 (iii)use assets for such other purpose as FinCEN determines appropriate; and (B)order all other such assets unfrozen.
 (c)Civil penaltiesAny person violating the requirements of this section shall be subject to the same civil penalties provided for under section 5321 of title 31, United States Code, for violations of subchapter II of chapter 53 of such title (commonly known as the Bank Secrecy Act).
			3.National Homegrown Terrorism Incident Clearinghouse
 (a)In generalThe Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (hereinafter in this section referred to as the Director) shall establish and maintain a national clearinghouse for information on incidents of homegrown lone wolf terrorism, domestic terrorism, and a person providing material support to terrorists. (b)ClearinghouseThe clearinghouse established under subsection (a) shall—
 (1)accept, collect, and maintain information on incidents described in subsection (a) that is submitted to the clearinghouse by Federal, State, and local law enforcement agencies, by law enforcement agencies of foreign countries, and by victims of such incidents;
 (2)collate and index such information for purposes of cross-referencing; (3)upon request from a Federal, State, or local law enforcement agency or from a law enforcement agency of a foreign country, provide such information to assist in the investigation of an incident described in subsection (a); and
 (4)provide all-source integrated analysis to other Federal agencies and State and local law enforcement agencies.
 (c)Scope of informationThe information maintained by the clearinghouse for each incident shall, to the extent practicable, include—
 (1)the date, time, and place of the incident; (2)details of the incident;
 (3)any available information on suspects or perpetrators of the incident; and (4)any other relevant information.
 (d)Design of clearinghouseThe clearinghouse shall be designed for maximum ease of use by participating law enforcement agencies.
 (e)PublicityThe Director shall publicize the existence of the clearinghouse to law enforcement agencies by appropriate means.
 (f)ResourcesIn establishing and maintaining the clearinghouse, the Director may— (1)through the Attorney General, utilize the resources of any other department or agency of the Federal Government; and
 (2)accept assistance and information from private organizations or individuals. (g)CoordinationThe Director shall carry out the Director's responsibilities under this section in cooperation with the Department of Homeland Security, and such other agencies as may be necessary.
 (h)Authorization of AppropriationsThere are authorized to be appropriated for each of fiscal years 2019 through 2022 such sums as are necessary to carry out this section.
 4.DefinitionsFor purposes of this Act: (1)Domestic terrorismThe term domestic terrorism has the meaning given that term under section 2331 of title 18, United States Code.
 (2)Financial institutionThe term financial institution has the meaning given that term under section 5312 of title 31, United States Code. (3)FinCENThe term FinCEN means the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network of the Department of the Treasury.
 (4)Providing material support to terroristsThe term providing material support to terrorists means the offense described under section 2339A(a) of title 18, United States Code.


IV
111th CONGRESS
2d Session
H. RES. 1569
In the House of Representatives, U. S.,

July 29, 2010

RESOLUTION
Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 5850) making appropriations for the Departments of Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2011, and for other purposes.

That at any time after the adoption of this resolution the Speaker may, pursuant to clause 2(b) of rule XVIII, declare the House resolved into the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union for consideration of the bill (H.R. 5850) making appropriations for the Departments of Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2011, and for other purposes. The first reading of the bill shall be dispensed with. All points of order against consideration of the bill are waived except those arising under clause 9 or 10 of rule XXI. General debate shall be confined to the bill and shall not exceed one hour equally divided and controlled by the chair and ranking minority member of the Committee on Appropriations. After general debate the bill shall be considered for amendment under the five-minute rule. The bill shall be considered as read through page 171, line 17. Points of order against provisions in the bill for failure to comply with clause 2 of rule XXI are waived. Notwithstanding clause 11 of rule XVIII, except as provided in section 2, no amendment shall be in order except: (1) the amendments printed in part A of the report of the Committee on Rules accompanying this resolution; and (2) not to exceed four of the amendments printed in part B of the report of the Committee on Rules if offered by Representative Flake of Arizona or his designee. Each such amendment may be offered only in the order printed in the report, may be offered only by a Member designated in the report, shall be considered as read, shall be debatable for 10 minutes equally divided and controlled by the proponent and an opponent, and shall not be subject to a demand for division of the question. All points of order against such amendments are waived except those arising under clause 9 or 10 of rule XXI. At the conclusion of consideration of the bill for amendment the Committee shall rise and report the bill to the House with such amendments as may have been adopted. In case of sundry amendments reported from the Committee, the question of their adoption shall be put to the House en gros and without division of the question. The previous question shall be considered as ordered on the bill and amendments thereto to final passage without intervening motion except one motion to recommit with or without instructions.
2.After disposition of the amendments specified in the first section of the resolution, the chair and ranking minority member of the Committee on Appropriations or their designees each may offer one pro forma amendment to the bill for the purpose of debate, which shall be controlled by the proponent.
3.The Chair may entertain a motion that the Committee rise only if offered by the chair of the Committee on Appropriations or his designee. The Chair may not entertain a motion to strike out the enacting words of the bill (as described in clause 9 of rule XVIII).

Lorraine C. Miller,Clerk.


117 S2555 IS: PFAS Exposure Assessment and Documentation Act
U.S. Senate
2021-07-29
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.

II117th CONGRESS1st SessionS. 2555IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATESJuly 29, 2021Mrs. Shaheen introduced the following bill; which was read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed ServicesA BILLTo require the Secretary of Defense to establish a task force to address the effects of the release of perfluoroalkyl substances and polyfluoroalkyl substances from activities of the Department of Defense, to include exposure to such substances in periodic health assessments of members of the Armed Forces, and for other purposes.1.Short titleThis Act may be cited as the PFAS Exposure Assessment and Documentation Act.2.Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances task force of Department of Defense(a)In generalThe Secretary of Defense shall establish a task force to address the effects of the release of perfluoroalkyl substances and polyfluoroalkyl substances from activities of the Department of Defense (in this section referred to as the PFAS Task Force).(b)MembershipThe members of the PFAS Task Force are the following:(1)The Assistant Secretary of Defense for Sustainment.(2)The Assistant Secretary of the Army for Installations, Energy, and Environment.(3)The Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Energy, Installations, and Environment.(4)The Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Installations, Environment, and Energy. (5)A liaison from the Department of Veterans Affairs to be determined by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.(c)ChairmanThe Assistant Secretary of Defense for Sustainment shall be the chairman of the PFAS Task Force.(d)SupportThe Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness and such other individuals as the Secretary of Defense considers appropriate shall support the activities of the PFAS Task Force.(e)DutiesThe duties of the PFAS Task Force are the following:(1)Analysis of the health aspects of exposure to perfluoroalkyl substances and polyfluoroalkyl substances.(2)Establishment of clean-up standards and performance requirements relating to mitigating the effects of the release of perfluoroalkyl substances and polyfluoroalkyl substances.(3)Finding and funding the procurement of an effective substitute firefighting foam without perfluoroalkyl substances or polyfluoroalkyl substances.(4)Establishment of standards that are supported by science for determining exposure to and ensuring clean up of perfluoroalkyl substances and polyfluoroalkyl substances. (5)Establishment of interagency coordination with respect to mitigating the effects of the release of perfluoroalkyl substances and polyfluoroalkyl substances.(6)Assessment of the perceptions by Congress and the public of the efforts of the Department of Defense with respect to mitigating the effects of the release of perfluoroalkyl substances and polyfluoroalkyl substances from activities of the Department.(f)ReportNot later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and quarterly thereafter, the Chairman of the PFAS Task Force shall submit to Congress a report on the activities of the task force. 3.Inclusion of exposure to perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances as part of periodic health assessments(a)Periodic health assessmentThe Secretary of Defense shall ensure that any periodic health assessment provided to a member of the Armed Forces includes an evaluation of whether the member has been—(1)based or stationed at a military installation identified by the Department of Defense as a location with a known or suspected release of perfluoroalkyl substances or polyfluoroalkyl substances during the period in which the member was based or stationed at the military installation; or(2)exposed to such substances, including by evaluating any information in the health record of the member.(b)Separation history and physical examinationsSection 1145(a)(5) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:(D)The Secretary concerned shall ensure that each physical examination of a member under subparagraph (A) includes an assessment of whether the member was—(i)based or stationed at a military installation identified by the Department as a location with a known or suspected release of perfluoroalkyl substances or polyfluoroalkyl substances during the period in which the member was based or stationed at the military installation; or(ii)exposed to such substances, including by assessing any information in the health record of the member..(c)Deployment assessmentsSection 1074f(b)(2) of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:(E)An assessment of whether the member was—(i)based or stationed at a military installation identified by the Department as a location with a known or suspected release of perfluoroalkyl substances or polyfluoroalkyl substances during the period in which the member was based or stationed at the military installation; or(ii)exposed to such substances, including by assessing any information in the health record of the member..4.Provision of blood testing for members of the Armed Forces, former members of the Armed Forces, and their families to determine exposure to perfluoroalkyl substances or polyfluoroalkyl substances(a)Members of the Armed Forces(1)In generalIf a covered evaluation of a member of the Armed Forces results in a positive determination of potential exposure to perfluoroalkyl substances or polyfluoroalkyl substances, the Secretary of Defense shall provide to that member, during that covered evaluation, blood testing to determine and document potential exposure to such substances.(2)Inclusion in health recordThe results of blood testing of a member of the Armed Forces conducted under paragraph (1) shall be included in the health record of the member.(b)Former members of the Armed Forces and family membersThe Secretary shall pay for blood testing to determine and document potential exposure to perfluoroalkyl substances or polyfluoroalkyl substances for any covered individual, at the election of the individual, either through the TRICARE program for individuals otherwise eligible for such program or through the use of vouchers to obtain such testing.(c)DefinitionsIn this section:(1)Covered evaluationThe term covered evaluation means—(A)a periodic health assessment conducted in accordance with section 3(a);(B)a separation history and physical examination conducted under section 1145(a)(5) of title 10, United States Code, as amended by section 3(b); and(C)a deployment assessment conducted under section 1074f(b)(2) of such title, as amended by section 3(c).(2)Covered individualThe term covered individual means a former member of the Armed Forces or a family member of a member or former member of the Armed Forces who lived at a location (or the surrounding area of such a location) identified by the Department of Defense as a location with a known or suspected release of perfluoroalkyl substances or polyfluoroalkyl substances during the period in which the individual lived at that location (or surrounding area).(3)TRICARE programThe term TRICARE program has the meaning given that term in section 1072(7) of title 10, United States Code.5.Documentation of exposure to perfluoroalkyl substances or polyfluoroalkyl substances(a)Sharing of informationThe Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall enter into a memorandum of understanding providing for the sharing by the Department of Defense with the Department of Veterans Affairs of the results of covered evaluations regarding the exposure by a member of the Armed Forces to perfluoroalkyl substances or polyfluoroalkyl substances.(b)Registry(1)EstablishmentThe Secretary of Defense shall establish a registry of members of the Armed Forces who have been exposed to, or are suspected to have been exposed to, perfluoroalkyl substances or polyfluoroalkyl substances.(2)Inclusion in registryThe Secretary shall include a member of the Armed Forces in the registry established under paragraph (1) if a covered evaluation of the member establishes that the member—(A)was based or stationed at a location identified by the Department of Defense as a location with a known or suspected release of perfluoroalkyl substances or polyfluoroalkyl substances during the period in which the member was based or stationed at the location; or(B)was exposed to such substances.(3)Blood testingThe results of any blood test conducted under section 4(a) shall be included in the registry established under paragraph (1) for any member of the Armed Forces included in the registry. (4)ElectionA member of the Armed Forces may elect not to be included in the registry established under paragraph (1). (c)Provision of informationThe Secretary of Defense shall provide to a member of the Armed Forces more information on perfluoroalkyl substances and polyfluoroalkyl substances and the potential impact of exposure to such substances if a covered evaluation of such member establishes that the member—(1)was based or stationed at a location identified by the Department of Defense as a location with a known or suspected release of perfluoroalkyl substances or polyfluoroalkyl substances during the period in which the member was based or stationed at the location; or(2)was exposed to such substances. (d)Rule of constructionNothing in this section may be construed to preclude eligibility of a veteran for benefits under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs by reason of the exposure of the veteran to perfluoroalkyl substances or polyfluoroalkyl substances not being recorded in a covered evaluation.(e)Covered evaluation definedIn this section, the term covered evaluation means—(1)a periodic health assessment conducted in accordance with section 3(a);(2)a separation history and physical examination conducted under section 1145(a)(5) of title 10, United States Code, as amended by section 3(b); and(3)a deployment assessment conducted under section 1074f(b)(2) of such title, as amended by section 3(c).


113 S936 IS: Transparency in Small Business Assistance Act
U.S. Senate
2013-05-14
text/xml
EN
Pursuant to Title 17 Section 105 of the United States Code, this file is not subject to copyright protection and is in the public domain.

		II
		113th CONGRESS
		1st Session
		S. 936
		IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES

			May 14, 2013
			Mr. Heller (for himself,
			 Mr. Enzi, and Mr. Rubio) introduced the following bill; which was
			 read twice and referred to the Committee
			 on Small Business and Entrepreneurship

		A BILL
		To increase oversight of small business assistance
		  programs provided by the Small Business Administration.

		1.Short
			 titleThis Act may be cited as
			 the Transparency in Small Business
			 Assistance Act.
		2.Oversight of
			 small business assistance programs
			(a)DefinitionsIn
			 this Act—
				(1)the terms
			 Administration and Administrator mean the Small
			 Business Administration and the Administrator thereof, respectively; and
				(2)the term
			 small business concern has the same meaning as in section 3 of the
			 Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 632).
				(b)Oversight of
			 small business assistance programs
				(1)In
			 generalThe Administrator shall collect information from small
			 business concerns that receive assistance provided by the Administration,
			 including a loan, a loan guarantee, a grant, or counseling services.
				(2)Information to
			 be collectedThe information collected under paragraph (1) shall
			 include—
					(A)the operational
			 status of each small business concern, to be collected 6 months after and 1
			 year after the date on which the small business concern receives assistance
			 from the Administration;
					(B)if a small
			 business concern is no longer operational, the reason for the closure of the
			 small business concern;
					(C)the number of
			 part-time employees and full-time employees that each small business concern
			 employs, to be collected—
						(i)6
			 months after the date on which the small business concern receives assistance
			 from the Administration, and every 6 months thereafter, during the time the
			 small business concern is receiving assistance from the Administration;
			 and
						(ii)6
			 months after and 1 year after the date on which the small business concern
			 ceases to receive assistance from the Administration; and
						(D)if the
			 Administration is unable to provide assistance to the small business concern,
			 the number of referrals that the Administration makes to another assistance
			 program within the Administration or to another Federal agency.
					(3)ReportThe
			 Administration shall include the information collected under this subsection in
			 the annual report required under section 10(a) of the Small Business Act (15
			 U.S.C. 639(a)).
				(c)Effective
			 dateThis Act shall take effect 1 year after the date of
			 enactment of this Act.


113 HCON 29 IH: Expressing the sense of Congress that the United States should resume normal diplomatic relations with Taiwan, and for other purposes.
U.S. House of Representatives
2013-04-10
text/xml
EN
Pursuant to Title 17 Section 105 of the United States Code, this file is not subject to copyright protection and is in the public domain.

		IV
		113th CONGRESS
		1st Session
		H. CON. RES. 29
		IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

			April 10, 2013
			Mr. McCaul (for
			 himself and Mr. Andrews) submitted the
			 following concurrent resolution; which was referred to the
			 Committee on Foreign
			 Affairs

		CONCURRENT RESOLUTION
		Expressing the sense of Congress that the
		  United States should resume normal diplomatic relations with Taiwan, and for
		  other purposes.

		Whereas the people of Taiwan have established a vibrant
			 and pluralistic democracy only 20 years ago;
		Whereas since then, the people of Taiwan have conducted
			 five successful presidential elections, successive elections for members of
			 their national legislature, numerous local elections, and two national
			 referendums;
		Whereas Taiwan has never been under the jurisdiction of
			 the People’s Republic of China, which continues to illegitimately claim
			 sovereignty over Taiwan and its 23,000,000 citizens;
		Whereas the Shanghai Communique, which maintains that
			 there is “One China” and that “Taiwan is part of China”, was established
			 without the consultation of Congress or the people of Taiwan;
		Whereas the People’s Republic of China has since used the
			 “One China Policy” to block Taiwan's membership and full participation in
			 international organizations and events, ranging from the United Nations and the
			 World Health Organization to the Olympics;
		Whereas the “One China Policy” is effectively obsolete,
			 and does not the reflect the obvious reality that Taiwan has functioned as an
			 independent and sovereign country for over half a century;
		Whereas the only other countries in the world with which
			 the United States does not have diplomatic relations are Bhutan, Cuba, Iran,
			 and North Korea;
		Whereas Taiwan maintains diplomatic, cultural, and
			 economic relations with several countries around the world;
		Whereas Taiwan and the United States maintained formal
			 diplomatic relations until 1979;
		Whereas former President Jimmy Carter severed diplomatic
			 ties with Taiwan in 1979 and terminated the Mutual Defense Treaty between the
			 United States and Taiwan without consulting or seeking the approval of
			 Congress;
		Whereas Congress responded later that year by adopting the
			 Taiwan Relations Act, codifying in law the basis for continued friendly
			 relations between the United States and Taiwan;
		Whereas former President Ronald Reagan issued the “Six
			 Assurances” to Taiwan in July 1982, including the assurance that “[t]he United
			 States would not formally recognize Chinese sovereignty over Taiwan.”;
		Whereas both the Taiwan Relations Act and the Six
			 Assurances form the cornerstone of United States-Taiwan relations; and
		Whereas Taiwan has been a steadfast ally of the United
			 States and a responsible and compassionate member of the world community: Now,
			 therefore, be it

		That it is the sense of Congress
			 that—
			(1)the President should abandon the
			 fundamentally flawed “One China Policy” in favor of a more realistic “One
			 China, One Taiwan Policy” that recognizes Taiwan as a sovereign and independent
			 country, separate from the undemocratic Government of the People’s Republic of
			 China in Beijing;
			(2)the President
			 should begin the process of resuming normal diplomatic relations with Taiwan;
			 and
			(3)the President, the
			 Permanent Representative of the United States to the United Nations, and other
			 relevant United States officials should aggressively support Taiwan's full
			 participation in the United Nations and any other international organization of
			 which the United States is a member, and for which statehood is a requirement
			 for membership.


116 HRES 614 IH: Expressing support for the recognition of October 7, 2019, through October 11, 2019, as “Smart Cities Week” and supporting the further research, development, and adoption of technology designed to improve efficiency, connectivity, sustainability, and mobility in transportation, infrastructure, and workforce opportunity in American cities and communities.
U.S. House of Representatives
2019-10-04
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.

IV116th CONGRESS1st SessionH. RES. 614IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVESOctober 4, 2019Ms. Clarke of New York submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, 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 concernedRESOLUTIONExpressing support for the recognition of October 7, 2019, through October 11, 2019, as Smart Cities Week and supporting the further research, development, and adoption of technology designed to improve
			 efficiency, connectivity, sustainability, and mobility in transportation,
			 infrastructure, and workforce opportunity in American cities and
			 communities.

 Whereas the term smart technology refers to a range of technologies and devices, including automation, artificial intelligence, wireless and wired communications, sensors, actuators, smart meters, Internet of Things devices, data sharing, and data analytics, that are used in various applications to make cities and communities more efficient, resilient, and competitive;
 Whereas the integration of smart technology has the potential to revolutionize connectivity, mobility, sustainability, and 21st century workforce opportunities in the country’s cities, regions, and communities; and
 Whereas American investment in infrastructure could promote employment opportunities while spurring the next generation of telecommunications technology, including 5G and dedicated short range communications technology: Now, therefore, be it

 That the House of Representatives— (1)encourages the recognition of Smart Cities Week; and
 (2)supports efforts— (A)to further research, develop, and adopt technology in American cities designed to improve efficiency, connectivity, sustainability, and mobility in transportation and infrastructure, including the implementation of 5G telecommunications and dedicated short range communications technology;
 (B)to increase awareness of new workforce opportunities and expanded accessibility made available through Smart City initiatives and emerging industries in the 21st century economy; and
 (C)to encourage the formation of public-private partnerships (or P3s) among the Federal Government, the States, localities, communities, the private sector, and key stakeholders to foster innovation when designing and implementing smart technology solutions.


114 S1323 IS: Social Security Identity Defense Act of 2015
U.S. Senate
2015-05-13
text/xml
EN
Pursuant to Title 17 Section 105 of the United States Code, this file is not subject to copyright protection and is in the public domain.

II114th CONGRESS1st SessionS. 1323IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATESMay 13, 2015Mr. Johnson (for himself, Mr. Warner, and Ms. Ayotte) introduced the following bill; which was read twice and referred to the Committee on FinanceA BILLTo amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to permit the Secretary of the Treasury and the
			 Commissioner of the Social Security Administration to disclose certain
			 return information related to identity theft, and for other purposes.

 1.Short titleThis Act may be cited as the Social Security Identity Defense Act of 2015.
		2.Disclosure of
			 certain return information with respect to identity theft
			(a)In
 generalSubsection (l) of section 6103 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph:

					(23)Disclosure of
				return information in certain cases of identity theft
						(A)In
 generalIf the Secretary has reason to believe that there has been a fraudulent use of a social security account number on a statement described in section 6051—
 (i)the Secretary shall disclose to the individual who was validly assigned such social security account number—
 (I)that the Secretary has reason to believe that the social security account number assigned to such individual has been fraudulently used in the employment context,
 (II)that the Secretary has made the disclosure described in clause (ii) to the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Attorney General with respect to such fraudulent use, and
 (III)such other information (other than return information) as the Secretary determines, in consultation with Federal Trade Commission, would be helpful and appropriate to provide to a victim of identity theft, and
 (ii)the Secretary shall disclose to the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Attorney General—
 (I)such social security account number,
 (II)that the Secretary has reason to believe that such social security account number has been fraudulently used in the employment context, and
 (III)the taxpayer identity information of the individual who was assigned such social security account number, the individual believed to have fraudulently used such social security account number, and the employer who made the statement described in section 6051 which included such social security account number.
								(B)Restriction on
				disclosure to law enforcement
							(i)Disclosure to
 other law enforcement officialsThe Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Attorney General may disclose information received under subparagraph (A)(ii) to appropriate Federal, State, and local law enforcement officials.
							(ii)Restriction on
 use of disclosed informationReturn information disclosed under subparagraph (A)(ii) may be used by Federal, State, and local law enforcement officials only for purposes of carrying out criminal investigations or prosecutions.
 (iii)Memorandum of understandingFor purposes of this paragraph, any return information disclosed under subparagraph (A)(ii) may not be provided to any State or local law enforcement official until such official has entered into a memorandum of understanding with the Secretary that includes the following terms and conditions:
 (I)Confidentiality of returns and return information and prohibitions on disclosure described in subsection (a)(3).
 (II)Safeguards, restrictions on access, and recordkeeping requirements described in subsection (p)(4). (III)Application of penalties for unauthorized disclosure of returns and return information under section 7213(a)(2).
 (IV)Any additional terms and conditions deemed appropriate by the Secretary.. (b)Prevention of identity theftIn the case of an employee for whom the Commissioner of the Social Security Administration has reason to believe that the social security number included on any statement described in section 6051(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 with respect to such employee is not the correct social security number for such employee, the Commissioner shall provide notification to the employer for such employee which includes—
 (1)the name of the employee and the social security number included on such statements; and (2)relevant information regarding the availability of the Social Security Number Verification Service for verification of social security numbers.
				(c)Conforming
			 amendments related to disclosure
 (1)ConfidentialityParagraph (3) of section 6103(a) of such Code is amended by striking or (21) and inserting (21), or (23).
				(2)Procedures and
 recordkeeping related to disclosuresParagraph (4) of section 6103(p) of such Code is amended by striking or (20) each place it appears and inserting (20), or (23).
				(3)Unauthorized
 disclosure or inspectionParagraph (2) of section 7213(a) of such Code is amended by striking or (21) and inserting (21), or (23).
				3.Penalties for tax-related identity theft
 (a)In generalSection 1028A(c) of title 18, United States Code, is amended— (1)by redesignating paragraphs (8) through (11) as paragraphs (10) through (13), respectively; and
 (2)by inserting after paragraph (7) the following new paragraphs:  (8)section 286 (relating to conspiracy to defraud the government with respect to claims), section 287 (relating to false, fictitious, or fraudulent claims), section 371 (relating to conspiracy to commit an offense or to defraud the United States), section 1001 (relating to statements or entries), section 1341 (relating to frauds and swindles), section 1342 (relating to a fictitious name or address), section 1343 (relating to fraud by wire, radio, or television), or section 1344 (relating to bank fraud), if the felony violation is a tax-related offense punishable under such section;
 (9)section 7206 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to fraud and false statements);.
				(b)Penalty
			 for misappropriation of tax identification numbers
				(1)In
 generalPart I of subchapter B of chapter 68 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by adding at the end the following new section:

 6720D.Misappropriation of tax identification numberIn addition to any penalty provided by law, any person who knowingly or willfully misappropriates another person's tax identification number in connection with any list, return, account, statement, or other document submitted to the Secretary shall pay a penalty of $5,000..
 (2)Conforming amendmentThe table of sections for part I of subchapter B of chapter 68 of such Code is amended by adding at the end the following new item:Sec. 6720D. Misappropriation of tax identification number..
				(3)Effective
 dateThe amendments made by this subsection shall apply to returns and information submitted after the date of the enactment of this Act.


114 HRES 505 IH: Honoring the 50th anniversary of the Higher Education Act of 1965.
U.S. House of Representatives
2015-10-29
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.

		IV
		114th CONGRESS
		1st Session
		H. RES. 505
		IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

			October 29, 2015
			Mr. Hinojosa (for himself, Mr. Scott of Virginia, Mr. Grijalva, Mr. Gene Green of Texas, Ms. Jackson Lee, Mr. Vela, Ms. Eddie Bernice Johnson of Texas, Mr. Veasey, Mr. Jeffries, Mr. Takano, Mr. Sablan, Mr. Cárdenas, Mrs. Davis of California, Mr. Polis, Ms. Fudge, Ms. Judy Chu of California, Mr. Danny K. Davis of Illinois, Mr. Pocan, Ms. Clark of Massachusetts, Ms. Lee, Mrs. Napolitano, Mr. Doggett, Mr. Gallego, Ms. Bonamici, Mr. Fattah, Ms. Clarke of New York, Mr. Castro of Texas, Mr. O’Rourke, Ms. Adams, Ms. Roybal-Allard, Mr. Courtney, Mr. Cuellar, Mr. DeSaulnier, Mr. Al Green of Texas, and Ms. Wilson of Florida) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Education and the Workforce

		RESOLUTION
		Honoring the 50th anniversary of the Higher Education Act of 1965.

 Whereas 2015 marks the 50th anniversary of the Higher Education Act of 1965; Whereas President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Act into law on November 8, 1965, as part of the Great Society;
 Whereas prior to its passage, attending institutions of higher education remained an unreachable dream for those without the financial means or legal ability to improve their educational and occupational status;
 Whereas generations of Americans sought Federal legislation to increase access to these institutions of higher education for populations barred from attending due to social and economic inequality;
 Whereas efforts by those in the civil rights movement cast a bright light on the restrictive, inhumane treatment of Americans facing the oppressive burden of poverty and racial injustice;
 Whereas while early Great Society legislation signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson prohibited discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, and sex, many Americans still lacked the education and skills needed to fully participate in a rapidly modernizing economy through no fault of their own;
 Whereas the Higher Education Act of 1965 authorized a vast array of programs and provisions supporting millions of low-income students and their families in their efforts to attend and complete studies at institutions of higher education;
 Whereas the funding authorized by the Higher Education Act of 1965 continues to serve as the primary source of Federal student aid in the form of Federal grants, student loans, and Federal Work-Study;
 Whereas the Higher Education Act of 1965, in addition to offering aid directly to students, provided grants to institutions of higher education to promote research, established a National Teacher Corps, and allocated aid to historically Black colleges and universities, two-year colleges, and other developing institutions;
 Whereas Congress has amended the Higher Education Act of 1965 at various times, with key changes that strengthened the Act;
 Whereas the creation of the Talent Search Program in 1965 and the Special Services for Disadvantaged Students Program under the reauthorization in 1968 formed, with the Upward Bound Program, a trio of programs (commonly known as TRIO) designed to identify and provide services to low-income individuals, first-generation college students, and individuals with disabilities in their progress from secondary to postbaccalaureate study;
 Whereas the amendments to the Act in the Patsy Takemoto Mink Equal Opportunity in Education Act of 1972, commonly known as title IX, made groundbreaking changes that prohibit discrimination on the basis of sex in any academic or athletic program receiving Federal funding or support and continue the march toward true equality of opportunity for all;
 Whereas the Basic Educational Opportunity Grant, signed into law in 1972 and now known as the Pell Grant Program, began providing need-based grants to low-income students in order to further improve access to institutions of higher education;
 Whereas the amendments to the Higher Education Act of 1965 have underscored the importance of preparing students from migrant and seasonal farmworker families to enter and succeed in postsecondary education by providing Federal support for the High School Equivalency Program (HEP) and the College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP);
 Whereas the 1998 amendments created the Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP), a discretionary grant program tasked with increasing the number of successful low-income students in higher education by providing critical supports to cohorts of students in high poverty middle schools;
 Whereas amendments to the Higher Education Act of 1965 created pathways toward loan forgiveness for the Nation’s servicemembers, public and civil servants, and teachers, allowing more graduates to serve in these important roles while working toward the prospect of greater financial independence;
 Whereas amendments to the Higher Education Act of 1965 created title V, a Federal designation and increased support for Hispanic-serving institutions, colleges and universities that provide a significant proportion of postsecondary opportunities for Latino undergraduate and graduate students and low-income students;
 Whereas amendments to the Act in the Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act, enacted as part of the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010, made landmark investments in Pell Grants, historically Black colleges and universities, Hispanic-serving institutions, tribal colleges and universities, predominantly Black institutions, Asian-American and Native American Pacific Islander-serving institutions, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian-serving institutions, and other minority-serving institutions;
 Whereas amendments to the Higher Education Act of 1965 have created Federal programs to strengthen the capacity of institutions enrolling undergraduates at two-year and four-year public and private colleges and universities, as well as institutions of higher education offering graduate study; and
 Whereas the Higher Education Act of 1965 solidified and expanded the Federal Government’s role in higher education policy at an integral time in our Nation’s history, and continues to provide Americans with the means for access to a postsecondary education: Now, therefore, be it

 That the House of Representatives— (1)honors the 50th anniversary of the Higher Education Act of 1965;
 (2)acknowledges those whose support and efforts led to passage of the Higher Education Act of 1965; (3)recognizes the significant investment the Higher Education Act of 1965 has made in the lives of American students, families, and this Nation as a whole; and
 (4)encourages all Americans to recognize and celebrate the important historical milestone represented by the congressional passage of the Higher Education Act of 1965 and its ideals of improving educational access and affordability.


113 HR 3492 RH: River Paddling Protection Act
U.S. House of Representatives
2013-11-14
text/xml
EN
Pursuant to Title 17 Section 105 of the United States Code, this file is not subject to copyright protection and is in the public domain.

		IB
		Union Calendar No. 275
		113th CONGRESS
		2d Session
		H. R. 3492
		[Report No. 113–369]
		IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

			November 14, 2013
			Mrs. Lummis (for herself and Mr. Bishop of Utah) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Natural Resources

			February 28, 2014
			Reported with an amendment, committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the State of the
			 Union, and ordered to be printed
			Strike out all after the enacting clause and insert the part printed in italic
			For text of introduced bill, see copy of bill as introduced on November 14, 2013

		A BILL
		To provide for the use of hand-propelled vessels in Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National
			 Park, and the National Elk Refuge, and for other purposes.

		1.Short TitleThis Act may be cited as the River Paddling Protection Act.
		2.Regulations Superseded
			(a)In generalThe rivers and streams of Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park shall be open to
			 hand-propelled vessels as determined by the director of the National Park
			 Service within 3 years of the date of enactment of this Act. Beginning on
			 the date that is 3 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the
			 following regulations shall have no the force or effect regarding closing
			 rivers and streams of Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National
			 Park to hand-propelled vessels:
				(1)Section 7.13(d)(4)(ii) of title 36, Code of Federal Regulations, regarding vessels on streams and
			 rivers in Yellowstone National Park.
				(2)Section 7.22(e)(3) of title 36, Code of Federal Regulations, regarding vessels on lakes and rivers
			 in Grand Teton National Park.
				(b)Coordination of recreational useThe Fish and Wildlife Service shall coordinate any recreational use of hand-propelled vessels on
			 the Gros Ventre River within the National Elk Refuge with Grand Teton
			 National Park to ensure such use is consistent with the requirements of
			 the National Wildlife Refuge Administration Act.

		February 28, 2014
		Reported with an amendment, committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the State of the
			 Union, and ordered to be printed


113 HR 4287 IH: Independent Innovator and Repurposing Act
U.S. House of Representatives
2014-03-24
text/xml
EN
Pursuant to Title 17 Section 105 of the United States Code, this file is not subject to copyright protection and is in the public domain.

I
113th CONGRESS
2d Session
H. R. 4287
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

March 24, 2014
Mr. Castro of Texas (for himself and Mr. Forbes) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary

A BILL
To advance the public health by encouraging independent innovators to pursue drug repurposing research and develop new treatments and cures by providing appropriate intellectual property protections for those innovations, and for other purposes.

1.Short titleThis Act may be cited as the Independent Innovator and Repurposing Act.
2.Extension of patent term for method of using biological product
(a)Extension for regulatory delayThe term of a patent claiming a method of using a biological product shall be extended for 5 years from the original expiration date of the patent, which shall include any patent term adjustment granted under section 154(b) of title 35, United States Code, if—
(1)an application for an extension is submitted by the owner of record of the patent or its agent in accordance with the requirements of subsection (b); and
(2)the term of the patent—
(A)has not expired before the application is so submitted; and
(B)has not been extended under subsection (c) of this section or section 156 of title 35, United States Code.
(b)Application for extensionTo obtain an extension of the term of a patent under this section, the owner of record of the patent or its agent shall submit an application to the Director. The application shall contain—
(1)the identity of the biological product;
(2)the identity of the patent for which an extension is being sought and the identity of each claim of such patent that claims the method of using the biological product;
(3)information demonstrating to the Director that—
(A)the patent was issued to an independent innovator;
(B)the owner of record is—
(i)the independent innovator; or
(ii)a qualified small business in which the independent innovator has an ownership interest;
(C)an application under section 351(a) of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 262(a)) for commercial marketing of the biological product for a method of use claimed in the patent has been filed; and
(D)a period of not less than 10 years elapsed between the original date of submission of an application for an exemption under section 505(i) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 355(i)) for investigating such method of use and the date on which the Food and Drug Administration approved the application described in subparagraph (C); and
(4)a brief description of the activities undertaken by the owner of record of the patent, or the agent of such owner, during such period with respect to the biological product and the significant dates applicable to such activities to the extent such information is possessed by such owner.
(c)Determination of extension
(1)In generalA determination that a patent is eligible for extension shall be made by the Director solely on the basis of the representations contained in the application for the extension. If the Director determines that a patent is eligible for extension under subsection (a) and that the requirements of subsection (b) have been complied with, the Director shall issue to the applicant for the extension of the term of the patent a certificate of extension, under seal, for 5 years. Such certificate shall be recorded in the official file of the patent and shall be considered as part of the original patent.
(2)Interim extensionIf the term of a patent for which an application has been submitted under subsection (b) would expire before a certificate of extension is issued or denied under paragraph (1) respecting the application, the Director shall extend, until such determination is made, the term of the patent for periods of up to one year if the Director determines that the patent is eligible for extension.
(d)DefinitionsIn this section:
(1)Biological productThe term biological product has the meaning given to such term in section 351(i)(1) of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 262(i)(1)).
(2)DirectorThe term Director means the Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office.
(3)Independent innovator
(A)The term independent innovator means any person or entity that—
(i)obtains a method of use patent for a biological product; and
(ii)is not, at the time of invention or patent filing, affiliated with the holder of a marketing application approved under section 351(a) of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 262(a)) for the commercial marketing of such biological product.
(B)For purposes of subparagraph (A) and paragraph (4), the term affiliated refers to any relationship of employment, control, or common ownership, whether direct or indirect, including through one or more intermediaries.
(4)Qualified small businessThe term qualified small business means any entity with fewer than 500 employees, including employees of affiliates, and which is not affiliated with the holder of the marketing application approved under section 351(a) of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. sec. 262(a)) for the commercial marketing of such biological product.
(e)Effective dateThis section shall take effect on the date of the enactment of this Act and shall apply to any unexpired patent issued before, on, or after that effective date.


		II
		111th CONGRESS
		1st Session
		S. 440
		IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES

			February 13, 2009
			Mr. Specter (for himself
			 and Mr. Leahy) 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 allow an
		  above-the-line deduction for attorney fees and costs in connection with civil
		  claim awards.

		1.Above-the-line deduction for
			 attorney fees and costs in connection with civil claim awards
			(a)In
			 generalParagraph (20) of section 62(a) of the Internal Revenue
			 Code of 1986 is amended to read as follows:

					(20)Costs
				involving civil casesAny deduction allowable under this chapter
				for attorney fees and court costs paid by, or on behalf of, the taxpayer in
				connection with any action involving a civil claim. The preceding sentence
				shall not apply to any deduction in excess of the amount includible in the
				taxpayer's gross income for the taxable year on account of a judgment or
				settlement (whether by suit or agreement and whether as lump sum or periodic
				payments) resulting from such
				claim.
					.
			(b)Conforming
			 amendmentSection 62 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is
			 amended by striking subsection (e).
			(c)Effective
			 dateThe amendments made by this section shall apply to fees and
			 costs paid after the date of the enactment of this Act with respect to any
			 judgment or settlement occurring after such date.


117 HRES 527 IH: Expressing solidarity with the Cuban people in their demands for freedom and respect for basic human rights.
U.S. House of Representatives
2021-07-13
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.

IV117th CONGRESS1st SessionH. RES. 527IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVESJuly 13, 2021Mr. Diaz-Balart (for himself, Mr. Scalise, Ms. Stefanik, Mr. McCaul, Mr. Nunes, Mr. Green of Tennessee, Mr. Mooney, Ms. Salazar, Mr. Gimenez, Ms. Malliotakis, Mrs. Cammack, Mr. Smith of New Jersey, Mr. Buchanan, Mr. Bilirakis, Mr. Webster of Florida, Mr. Waltz, Mr. Posey, Mr. Mast, Mr. Steube, Mr. Dunn, Mr. Crenshaw, Mr. Donalds, Mr. Rutherford, Mr. C. Scott Franklin of Florida, Mr. Gonzalez of Ohio, Mr. Gaetz, Mr. Tiffany, Miss González-Colón, Ms. Cheney, Mr. Chabot, Mr. Issa, and Mr. Barr) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Foreign AffairsRESOLUTIONExpressing solidarity with the Cuban people in their demands for freedom and respect for basic human rights.Whereas the Communist dictatorship in Cuba has been responsible for numerous atrocities including the extrajudicial assassinations of innocent civilians and activists by firing squad and other brutal methods, including the Tugboat Massacre of 1994 and the Brothers to the Rescue Shoot-Down of 1996;Whereas, in the notorious Black Spring of 2003, the regime engaged in brutal violence to attack independent journalists, human rights activists, and others who dared to expose the realities of totalitarian Cuba which was roundly condemned by international human rights groups;Whereas human rights activists such as Pedro Luis Boitel, Juan Wilfredo Soto Garcia, leader of the Ladies in White, Laura Pollan, Orlando Zapata Tamayo, Wilman Willar Mendoza, Oswaldo Paya, Harold Cepero, Armando Sosa Fortuny, and Yosvany Arostegui Armenteros died under suspicious circumstances, some while in state custody;Whereas the State Department’s 2020 Country Report on Human Rights Practices in Cuba states, Significant human rights issues included: unlawful or arbitrary killings, including extrajudicial killings, by the government; forced disappearance by the government; torture and cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment of political dissidents, detainees, and prisoners by security forces; harsh and life-threatening prison conditions; arbitrary arrests and detentions; political prisoners; significant problems with the independence of the judiciary; and arbitrary or unlawful interference with privacy. Freedom of the press functionally did not exist. Criminal libel laws were used against persons who criticized government leadership. The government engaged in censorship and internet site blocking, and there were severe limitations on academic and cultural freedom. There were severe restrictions on the right of peaceful assembly and denial of freedom of association, including refusal to recognize independent associations. There were severe restrictions on religious freedom. There were restrictions on internal and external freedom of movement. Citizens were unable to change their government through free and fair elections. Political participation was restricted to members of the ruling party. There was official corruption; trafficking in persons, including compulsory labor; and outlawing of independent trade unions.;Whereas the State Department’s 2021 Trafficking in Persons Report lists Cuba as a Tier 3 country, the lowest possible rating, stating that there was a government policy or government pattern to profit from labor export programs with strong indications of forced labor, particularly its foreign medical missions program, and that the regime’s exploitative policies toward the program participants include withholding passports, keeping most of the professionals’ salaries, preventing access to contract terms, and threatening the professionals’ families;Whereas, in January 2019, Secretary General Luis Almagro of the Organization of American States stated that, The Cuban dictatorship has failed in access to rights and equity, its productive system has failed, its financial management has failed, its management of the economy has failed and the only way to melt away its social deficiencies is to push its people into exile; it is a system that is incapable of giving dignified and honest work to its people, that is unable to open its youth to enterprise, unable to generate a competitive productive system and unable to achieve solutions for the simplest financial issues;Whereas the Independent Trade Union Association of Cuba (Asociación Sindical Independiente de Cuba, ASIC) has filed complaints with the International Labour Organization (ILO) condemning violations of fundamental labor rights such as freedom of assembly and repression against labor activist Ivan Hernandez Carrillo, and in response, the ILO provided recommendations on March 24, 2021, to address these human rights abuses;Whereas Freedom House rates Cuba as Not Free in both of its 2021 reports Freedom in the World and Freedom on the Net, and further summarizes that, Cuba is a one-party communist state that outlaws political pluralism, suppresses dissent, and severely restricts basic civil liberties;Whereas the United States has long supported the Cuban people with policies that limit hard currency to their oppressors while providing democracy-building support to civil society activists, permitting virtually unlimited donations of food, medicines, and other necessities through Acts such as the Radio Broadcasting to Cuba Act, the Television Broadcasting to Cuba Act, the Cuban Democracy Act of 1992, the Cuban Liberty and Democratic Solidarity (LIBERTAD) Act of 1996, the Trade Sanctions Reform and Export Enhancement Act of 2000, as well as Executive orders and regulations;Whereas numerous activists in Cuba such as members of the Patriotic Union of Cuba, the San Isidro Movement, the Christian Liberation Movement, ASIC, the Ladies in White, the Orlando Zapata Tamayo National Resistance Front, religious organizations, exile groups, and many others are demanding freedom for the Cuban people;Whereas the regime in Cuba has responded to protests with shutting down internet access, acts of repudiation, arbitrary arrests, and intimidation;Whereas the Cuban dictatorship has employed so-called Committees for the Defense of the Revolution to force neighbors to spy and turn against each other, which has spread distrust and fear among the Cuban people, and an environment that is deleterious to a strong social fabric and thriving civil society;Whereas, on July 11, 2021, thousands of courageous protesters gathered throughout the island, in every Province, to demand libertad, human rights, and to express their opposition to the Cuban dictatorship;Whereas the regime once again reacted to the July 11 protests with violence, arbitrary arrests, often by plain clothes state security operatives, forced disappearances, shutting down internet access, and calling on its supporters to harass protesters; andWhereas since Fidel Castro illegitimately and violently seized power, hundreds of thousands of Cuban nationals have fled Communist oppression: Now, therefore, be itThat the House of Representatives—(1)calls for the release of all political prisoners and for the end of acts of repression, arbitrary imprisonments, torture, and other human rights abuses against the Cuban people;(2)honors the courageous Cuban people for daring to stand up to the Cuban regime and demanding respect for fundamental freedoms, such as freedom of expression and assembly;(3)recognizes the brave prodemocracy and human rights activists, including independent journalists, artists, labor leaders, and religious leaders, who have been persecuted throughout decades of Communist tyranny;(4)urges other democracies, regional and multilateral organizations to affirm that violence against the unarmed people of Cuba will not be tolerated, and that human rights abusers will be held accountable for their crimes;(5)expresses solidarity with the long-suffering Cuban people in their demands for a genuine democratic transition; and(6)calls on the international community to stand with those struggling for freedom in Cuba by condemning repression and expressing unequivocal support for their rights to self-governance, human rights, and basic liberties.


116 HR 1891 IH: White Sands National Park Establishment Act
U.S. House of Representatives
2019-03-26
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
116th CONGRESS1st Session
H. R. 1891
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

March 26, 2019
Ms. Torres Small of New Mexico (for herself, Ms. Haaland, and Mr. Luján) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Natural Resources, and in addition to the Committee on Armed Services, 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 establish the White Sands National Park in the State of New Mexico as a unit of the National Park System, and for other purposes.

1.Short title; table of contents
(a)Short titleThis Act may be cited as the White Sands National Park Establishment Act.  (b)Table of contentsThe table of contents for this Act is as follows:

Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents.
Sec. 2. Definitions.
TITLE I—White Sands National Park
Sec. 101. Findings.
Sec. 102. Establishment of White Sands National Park.
TITLE II—Modification of Boundaries of White Sands National Park and White Sands Missile Range
Sec. 201. Transfers of administrative jurisdiction.
Sec. 202. Boundary modifications.
Sec. 203. Administration.
2.DefinitionsIn this Act: (1)MapThe term Map means the map entitled White Sands National Park Proposed Boundary Revision & Transfer of Lands Between National Park Service & Department of the Army, numbered 142/136,271, and dated February 14, 2017.
(2)Military munitionsThe term military munitions has the meaning given the term in section 101(e) of title 10, United States Code.  (3)Missile rangeThe term missile range means the White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico, administered by the Secretary of the Army.
(4)MonumentThe term Monument means the White Sands National Monument, New Mexico, established by Presidential Proclamation No. 2025 (54 U.S.C. 320301 note), dated January 18, 1933, and administered by the Secretary.  (5)Munitions debrisThe term munitions debris has the meaning given the term in volume 8 of the Department of Defense Manual Number 6055.09–M entitled DoD Ammunitions and Explosives Safety Standards and dated February 29, 2008 (as in effect on the date of enactment of this Act).
(6)ParkThe term Park means the White Sands National Park established by section 102(a).  (7)Public Land OrderThe term Public Land Order means Public Land Order 833, dated May 21, 1952 (17 Fed. Reg. 4822).
(8)SecretaryThe term Secretary means the Secretary of the Interior.  (9)StateThe term State means the State of New Mexico.
IWhite Sands National Park
101.FindingsCongress finds that— (1)White Sands National Monument was established on January 18, 1933, by President Herbert Hoover under chapter 3203 of title 54, United States Code (commonly known as the Antiquities Act of 1906);
(2)President Hoover proclaimed that the Monument was established for the preservation of the white sands and additional features of scenic, scientific, and educational interest;  (3)the Monument was expanded by Presidents Roosevelt, Eisenhower, Carter, and Clinton in 1934, 1942, 1953, 1978, and 1996, respectively;
(4)the Monument contains a substantially more diverse set of nationally significant historical, archaeological, scientific, and natural resources than were known of at the time the Monument was established, including a number of recent discoveries;  (5)the Monument is recognized as a major unit of the National Park System with extraordinary values enjoyed by more visitors each year since 1995 than any other unit in the State;
(6)the Monument contributes significantly to the local economy by attracting tourists; and  (7)designation of the Monument as a national park would increase public recognition of the diverse array of nationally significant resources at the Monument and visitation to the unit.
102.Establishment of White Sands National Park
(a)EstablishmentTo protect, preserve, and restore its scenic, scientific, educational, natural, geological, historical, cultural, archaeological, paleontological, hydrological, fish, wildlife, and recreational values and to enhance visitor experiences, there is established in the State the White Sands National Park as a unit of the National Park System.  (b)Abolishment of White Sands National Monument (1)AbolishmentDue to the establishment of the Park, the Monument is abolished.
(2)IncorporationThe land and interests in land that comprise the Monument are incorporated in, and shall be considered to be part of, the Park.  (c)ReferencesAny reference in a law, map, regulation, document, paper, or other record of the United States to the White Sands National Monument shall be considered to be a reference to the White Sands National Park.
(d)Availability of FundsAny funds available for the Monument shall be available for the Park.  (e)AdministrationThe Secretary shall administer the Park in accordance with—
(1)this title; and  (2)the laws generally applicable to units of the National Park System, including section 100101(a), chapter 1003, sections 100751(a), 100752, 100753, and 102101, and chapter 3201 of title 54, United States Code.
(f)World Heritage List nomination
(1)County concurrenceThe Secretary shall not submit a nomination for the Park to be included on the World Heritage List of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization unless each county in which the Park is located concurs in the nomination.  (2)Army notificationBefore submitting a nomination for the Park to be included on the World Heritage List of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, the Secretary shall notify the Secretary of the Army of the intent of the Secretary to nominate the Park.
(g)EffectNothing in this section affects— (1)valid existing rights (including water rights);
(2)permits or contracts issued by the Monument;  (3)existing agreements, including agreements with the Department of Defense;
(4)the jurisdiction of the Department of Defense regarding the restricted airspace above the Park; or  (5)the airshed classification of the Park under the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.).
IIModification of boundaries of White Sands National Park and White Sands Missile Range
201.Transfers of administrative jurisdiction
(a)Transfer of administrative jurisdiction to the Secretary
(1)In generalAdministrative jurisdiction over the land described in paragraph (2) is transferred from the Secretary of the Army to the Secretary.  (2)Description of landThe land referred to in paragraph (1) is—
(A)the approximately 2,826 acres of land identified as To NPS, lands inside current boundary on the Map; and  (B)the approximately 5,766 acres of land identified as To NPS, new additions on the Map.
(b)Transfer of administrative jurisdiction to the Secretary of the Army
(1)In generalAdministrative jurisdiction over the land described in paragraph (2) is transferred from the Secretary to the Secretary of the Army.  (2)Description of landThe land referred to in paragraph (1) is the approximately 3,737 acres of land identified as To DOA on the Map.
202.Boundary modifications
(a)Park
(1)In generalThe boundary of the Park is revised to reflect the boundary depicted on the Map.  (2)Map (A)In generalThe Secretary, in coordination with the Secretary of the Army, shall prepare and keep on file for public inspection in the appropriate office of the Secretary a map and a legal description of the revised boundary of the Park.
(B)EffectThe map and legal description under subparagraph (A) shall have the same force and effect as if included in this Act, except that the Secretary may correct clerical and typographical errors in the map and legal description.  (3)Boundary surveyAs soon as practicable after the date of the establishment of the Park and subject to the availability of funds, the Secretary shall complete an official boundary survey of the Park.
(b)Missile range
(1)In generalThe boundary of the missile range and the Public Land Order are modified to exclude the land transferred to the Secretary under section 201(a) and to include the land transferred to the Secretary of the Army under section 201(b).  (2)MapThe Secretary shall prepare a map and legal description depicting the revised boundary of the missile range.
(c)Conforming amendmentSection 2854 of Public Law 104–201 (54 U.S.C. 320301 note) is repealed.  203.Administration (a)ParkThe Secretary shall administer the land transferred under section 201(a) in accordance with laws (including regulations) applicable to the Park.
(b)Missile rangeSubject to subsection (c), the Secretary of the Army shall administer the land transferred to the Secretary of the Army under section 201(b) as part of the missile range.  (c)Infrastructure; resource management (1)Range Road 7 (A)Infrastructure managementTo the maximum extent practicable, in planning, constructing, and managing infrastructure on the land described in subparagraph (C), the Secretary of the Army shall apply low-impact development techniques and strategies to prevent impacts within the missile range and the Park from stormwater runoff from the land described in that subparagraph.
(B)Resource managementThe Secretary of the Army shall— (i)manage the land described in subparagraph (C) in a manner consistent with the protection of natural and cultural resources within the missile range and the Park and in accordance with section 101(a)(1)(B) of the Sikes Act (16 U.S.C. 670a(a)(1)(B)), division A of subtitle III of title 54, United States Code, and the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (25 U.S.C. 3001 et seq.); and
(ii)include the land described in subparagraph (C) in the integrated natural and cultural resource management plan for the missile range.  (C)Description of landThe land referred to in subparagraphs (A) and (B) is the land that is transferred to the administrative jurisdiction of the Secretary of the Army under section 201(b) and located in the area east of Range Road 7 in—
(i)T. 17 S., R. 5 E., sec. 31;  (ii)T. 18 S., R. 5 E.; and
(iii)T. 19 S., R. 5 E., sec. 5.  (2)Fence (A)In generalThe Secretary of the Army shall continue to allow the Secretary to maintain the fence shown on the Map until such time as the Secretary determines that the fence is unnecessary for the management of the Park.
(B)RemovalIf the Secretary determines that the fence is unnecessary for the management of the Park under subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall promptly remove the fence at the expense of the Department of the Interior.  (d)ResearchThe Secretary of the Army and the Secretary may enter into an agreement to allow the Secretary to conduct certain research in the area identified as Cooperative Use Research Area on the Map.
(e)Military munitions and munitions debris
(1)Response actionWith respect to any Federal liability, the Secretary of the Army shall remain responsible for any response action addressing military munitions or munitions debris on the land transferred under section 201(a) to the same extent as on the day before the date of enactment of this Act.  (2)Investigation of military munitions and munitions debris (A)In generalThe Secretary may request that the Secretary of the Army conduct one or more investigations of military munitions or munitions debris on any land transferred under section 201(a).
(B)AccessThe Secretary shall give access to the Secretary of the Army to the land covered by a request under subparagraph (A) for the purposes of conducting the one or more investigations under that subparagraph.  (C)LimitationAn investigation conducted under this paragraph shall be subject to available appropriations.
(3)Applicable lawAny activities undertaken under this subsection shall be carried out in accordance with— (A)the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9601 et seq.);
(B)the purposes for which the Park was established; and  (C)any other applicable law.


113 HR 5861 IH: Guarding Our Great Lakes Act
U.S. House of Representatives
2014-12-11
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
		113th CONGRESS
		2d Session
		H. R. 5861
		IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

			December 11, 2014
			Mr. Camp (for himself, Ms. Slaughter, Mrs. Miller of Michigan, Mr. Walberg, Mr. Dingell, Mr. Upton, Mr. Huizenga of Michigan, Mr. Benishek, Mr. Kelly of Pennsylvania, Mr. Higgins, Mr. Thompson of Pennsylvania, and Mr. Peters of Michigan) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, and in addition to the Committee on Natural Resources, 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 control the spread of aquatic invasive species between the Great Lakes basin and the Mississippi
			 River basin, and for other purposes.

		1.Short titleThis Act may be cited as the Guarding Our Great Lakes Act.
		2.Aquatic invasive species control zone at Brandon Road Lock and Dam, Joliet Illinois
			(a)In generalThe Secretary of the Army, acting through the Chief of Engineers, the Secretary of the Interior,
			 acting through the Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service
			 and the Director of the United States Geological Survey, the Administrator
			 of the Environmental Protection Agency, and each other applicable Federal
			 agency shall take actions to prevent the transfer of aquatic invasive
			 species, with a focus on Asian carp species, through the Brandon Road Lock
			 and Dam.
			(b)Construction
				(1)Required measuresThe Chief of Engineers shall construct measures to improve the Brandon Road Lock and Dam to prevent
			 the upstream transfer of swimming aquatic invasive species through the
			 lock and dam, including—
					(A)an engineered channel in the approach from the Mississippi River direction, as outlined in the
			 report issued pursuant to section 1538 of Public Law 112–141;
					(B)adding additional structures necessary for aquatic invasive species control; and
					(C)the construction and operation of electric dispersal barriers.
					(2)Cost estimate and scheduleNot later than 6 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Chief of Engineers shall
			 submit to Congress a cost estimate for, and schedule for completion of,
			 measures to be constructed under this subsection.
				(c)Other measuresThe Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, in consultation with the Director of
			 the United States Geological Survey, the Chief of Engineers, the
			 Commandant of the United States Coast Guard, the Administrator of the
			 Environmental Protection Agency, and the heads of other relevant agencies,
			 shall implement all appropriate measures in compliance with applicable
			 State and Federal law around the Brandon Road Lock and Dam on the Illinois
			 River to prevent the upstream and downstream transfer of swimming and
			 floating aquatic invasive species, with a focus on Asian carp species,
			 including—
				(1)implementing existing Asian carp monitoring and control strategies at the Brandon Road location, as
			 applicable;
				(2)using the Brandon Road location to the greatest extent possible to test new aquatic invasive
			 species control technologies;
				(3)implementing all control strategies identified through this testing necessary to fulfill the
			 objectives of this section; and
				(4)developing best management practices to mitigate aquatic invasive species transfer by boat and
			 barge operators on the Illinois River and Chicago Sanitary and Shipping
			 Canal and working with operators to implement them.
				(d)Administration
				(1)Acquisition of real estateThe Chief of Engineers, the Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, and the
			 Director of the United States Geological Survey may acquire any real
			 estate necessary to carry out this section.
				(2)CooperationIn carrying out this section, the Chief of Engineers, the Director of the United States Fish and
			 Wildlife Service, and the Director of the United States Geological Survey
			 shall coordinate with each other and—
					(A)the Governors of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and
			 Wisconsin;
					(B)the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago;
					(C)the Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee;
					(D)the Great Lakes Commission;
					(E)the Great Lakes Fishery Commission;
					(F)the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative; and
					(G)any other applicable State, local, or international government entity.
					3.Actions related to permanent prevention of aquatic invasive species transfer between the Great
			 Lakes and Mississippi River basins
			(a)ConstructionThe Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, acting through the Great Lakes
			 Interagency Task Force, shall coordinate with the Governor of Illinois,
			 the City of Chicago, and the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of
			 Greater Chicago to carry out engineering and construction of flood
			 mitigation and water quality measures on the Chicago Area Waterway System
			 related to permanent prevention of the transfer of aquatic nuisance
			 species between the Great Lakes and Mississippi River basins.
			(b)RequirementsIn carrying out subsection (a), the Administrator shall—
				(1)coordinate with Chicago and the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago to
			 combine infrastructure to the greatest extent practicable with the Tunnel
			 and Reservoir Plan of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of
			 Greater Chicago;
				(2)ensure flood mitigation in the vicinity of the Chicago Area Waterway System is not degraded;
				(3)ensure water quality is protected in the Great Lakes and Chicago Waterway System, consistent with
			 the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.);
				(4)provide for continued commercial and recreational watercraft traffic on the Chicago Area Waterway
			 System to the greatest practical extent, which may include new
			 infrastructure to minimize the impact of physical barriers necessary for
			 aquatic invasive species control; and
				(5)prioritize efforts to prevent the transfer of the highest risk aquatic invasive species, including
			 Asian carp.
				(c)Administration
				(1)ConsultationIn carrying out this section, the Administrator shall consult with the Asian Carp Regional
			 Coordinating Committee.
				(2)Assistance from CorpsThe Chief of Engineers shall provide to the Administrator all documentation relating to the report
			 issued pursuant to section 1538 of Public Law 112–141 and technical and
			 other assistance, as requested by the Administrator.
				(3)DelegationIn carrying out this section, the Administrator may delegate parts of the project to any of the
			 non-Federal entities referred to in this Act.
				(4)Identification of partnersIn carrying out this section, the Administrator shall work to identify non-Federal cost-share
			 partners when applicable.
				(5)Federal shareThe Federal share of the cost of a project carried out under this section may be up to 100 percent.
				(d)ReportNot later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to
			 Congress a report describing the progress made, and a plan for further
			 actions to be taken, under this section.