109 HR 4983 IH: First Step to Redeployment Act of 2006
U.S. House of Representatives
2006-03-16
text/xml
EN
Pursuant to Title 17 Section 105 of the United States Code, this file is not subject to copyright protection and is in the public domain.

I
109th CONGRESS 2d Session
H. R. 4983
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

March 16, 2006
Mr. Blumenauer introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on International Relations, 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 recognize the exemplary service of the National Guard in Iraq and to direct the President to begin the redeployment of United States military forces from Iraq, starting with National Guard units.

1.Short titleThis Act may be cited as the First Step to Redeployment Act of 2006.
2.Recognition of National Guard
(a)FindingsThe Congress finds the following:
(1)The men and women of the United States Armed Forces have carried out their mission in Iraq with courage, professionalism, and honor.
(2)Units and personnel of the National Guard have been a major component of United States military forces in Iraq.
(3)Since the start of the occupation of Iraq, the Iraqi people have successfully voted in three elections, approved a constitution, and established a government.
(4)United States national security interests, as well as the future stability of Iraq, would now be best served by the phased redeployment of United States military forces from Iraq and refocused political, diplomatic, and reconstruction efforts.
(5)The extended deployments of National Guard units in Iraq have placed an undue burden on the families of members of the National Guard, the communities in which the members live, and the States.
(6)The National Guard is a critical element of the Total Force concept of the Armed Forces.
(7)Because of the dual role of the National Guard under the Constitution to both the Federal Government and the various States, including the States’ reliance on the National Guard for disaster response and homeland defense, the redeployment of Armed Forces from Iraq should begin with the redeployment of the National Guard.
(b)Congressional recognitionCongress—
(1)expresses its deep appreciation to the members of the National Guard and all other members of the Armed Forces for their service and commends their achievements, their sacrifices, and the sacrifices of their families;
(2)declares that there is no more capable soldier than the citizen-soldiers of the National Guard;
(3)reaffirms the critical role of the National Guard in defending the United States, carrying out combat missions, responding to domestic emergencies and disasters, and securing the homeland;
(4)recognizes the importance of the National Guard in ensuring a connection between the military and local communities; and
(5)opposes any attempt to reduce the role of the National Guard within the Total Force concept of the Armed Forces.
3.Redeployment of United States Armed Forces from Iraq The President shall begin the redeployment of United States Armed Forces from Iraq, starting with the orderly redeployment of National Guard units.


110 HR 922 IH: National Flood Insurance Program

U.S. House of Representatives
2007-02-08
text/xml
EN
Pursuant to Title 17 Section 105 of the United States Code, this file is not subject to copyright protection and is in the public domain.

		I
		110th CONGRESS
		1st Session
		H. R. 922
		IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

			February 8, 2007
			Ms. Matsui (for
			 herself and Mr. Frank of
			 Massachusetts) introduced the following bill; which was referred to
			 the Committee on Financial
			 Services

		A BILL
		To provide for a study by the Government Accountability
		  Office on methods, practices, and incentives to increase the extent to which
		  low-income property owners living in high-risk locations participate in the
		  National Flood Insurance Program.

		1.Short titleThis Act may be cited as the
			 National Flood Insurance Program
			 Participation Evaluation Act of 2007.
		2.GAO
			 study of methods to increase flood insurance program participation by
			 low-income families
			(a)In
			 generalThe Comptroller
			 General of the United States shall conduct a study to identify and analyze
			 potential methods, practices, and incentives that would increase the extent to
			 which low-income families (as such term is defined in section 3(b) of the
			 United States Housing Act of 1937 (42 U.S.C. 1437a(b))) that own residential
			 properties located within areas having special flood hazards purchase flood
			 insurance coverage for such properties under the national flood insurance
			 program. In conducting the study, the Comptroller General shall analyze the
			 effectiveness and costs of the various methods, practices, and incentives
			 identified, including their effects on the national flood insurance
			 program.
			(b)ReportThe
			 Comptroller General shall submit to the Congress a report setting forth the
			 conclusions of the study under this section not later than 12 months after the
			 date of the enactment of this Act.


109 HRES 222 IH: Supporting the goals and ideals of a National Day of Remembrance for Murder Victims.
U.S. House of Representatives
2005-04-19
text/xml
EN
Pursuant to Title 17 Section 105 of the United States Code, this file is not subject to copyright protection and is in the public domain.

IV
109th CONGRESS
1st Session
H. RES. 222
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

April 19, 2005
Mr. Shadegg (for himself and Mr. Chabot) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Government Reform

RESOLUTION
Supporting the goals and ideals of a National Day of Remembrance for Murder Victims.

Whereas the death of a child is a devastating experience, and the murder of a child is exceptionally difficult;
Whereas Parents of Murdered Children, Inc. (commonly known as POMC) helps families of murder victims cope with grief through a variety of support services, including counseling, crisis intervention, professional referrals, and assistance in dealing with the criminal justice system;
Whereas POMC was formed in 1978 by Robert and Charlotte Hullinger after the tragic murder of their daughter, Lisa, on September 25 of that year;
Whereas POMC has grown from only 5 parents at the first meeting of the organization in Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1978, to over 100,000 members in more than 300 chapters worldwide;
Whereas POMC membership is open to anyone who has suffered the murder of a loved one, and to professionals who are in frequent contact with survivors of murder victims;
Whereas POMC provides comfort and vital, ongoing assistance to countless loved ones of murder victims;
Whereas POMC helps guide families of murder victims through the process of pursuing justice in the criminal justice system, which can be an overwhelming experience for grieving loved ones;
Whereas POMC has designated September 25 of each year as a National Day of Remembrance for Murder Victims; and
Whereas the designation of a National Day of Remembrance for Murder Victims provides an opportunity for the people of the United States to honor the memories of murder victims: Now, therefore, be it

That the House of Representatives—
(1)supports the goals and ideals of a National Day of Remembrance for Murder Victims; and
(2)recognizes the significant benefits Parents of Murdered Children, Inc. provides to the loved ones of murder victims.


115 HR 5939 IH: To amend the Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Foundation Act.
U.S. House of Representatives
2018-05-23
text/xml
EN
Pursuant to Title 17 Section 105 of the United States Code, this file is not subject to copyright protection and is in the public domain.

I115th CONGRESS2d SessionH. R. 5939IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVESMay 23, 2018Mr. Grijalva (for himself and Mr. Cole) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Education and the Workforce, 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 concernedA BILLTo amend the Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Foundation Act.

 1.FindingsCongress finds the following: (1)Since 1999, the Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Foundation (referred to in this Act as the Foundation) has operated the Parks in Focus program to provide opportunities for the youth of the United States to learn about and experience the Nation’s parks and wilderness, and other outdoor areas.
 (2)Since 2001, the Foundation has conducted research and provided education and training to Native American and Alaska Native professionals and leaders on Native American and Alaska Native health care issues and tribal public policy through the Native Nations Institute for Leadership, Management, and Policy.
 (3)The Foundation is committed to continuing to make a substantial contribution toward public policy in the future by—
 (A)playing a significant role in developing the next generation of environmental, public health, public lands, natural resource, and Native American leaders; and
 (B)working with current leaders to improve collaboration and decision-making on challenging environmental, energy, public health, and related economic problems and tribal governance and economic development issues.
 2.DefinitionsSection 4 of the Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Foundation Act (20 U.S.C. 5602) is amended— (1)in paragraph (2), by striking the Udall Center for Studies in Public Policy established at the University of Arizona in 1987 and inserting the Udall Center for Studies in Public Policy established in 1987 at the University of Arizona, and includes the Native Nations Institute;
 (2)by redesignating paragraphs (3) through (7), (8), and (9) as paragraphs (4) through (8), (11), and (12), respectively;
 (3)by inserting after paragraph (2) the following:  (3)the term collaboration means to work in partnership with other entities for the purpose of—
 (A)resolving disputes; (B)addressing issues that may cause or result in disputes; or
 (C)streamlining and enhancing Federal, State, or tribal environmental and natural resource decision-making processes or procedures that may result in a dispute or conflict;;
 (4)in paragraph (7), as redesignated by paragraph (2), by striking section 7(a)(1)(D) and inserting section 7(a)(1)(B); (5)in paragraph (8), as redesignated by paragraph (2), by striking section 1201(a) and inserting section 101(a); and
 (6)by inserting after paragraph (8), as redesignated by paragraph (2), the following:  (9)the term Nation’s parks and wilderness means units of the National Park System and components of the National Wilderness Preservation System;
 (10)the term Native Nations Institute means the Native Nations Institute for Leadership, Management, and Policy established at the University of Arizona in 2001;.
 3.Establishment of Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall foundationSection 5(e) of the Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Foundation Act (20 U.S.C. 5603(e)) is amended by striking Arizona. and inserting Arizona and the District of Columbia..
 4.Purpose of the foundationSection 6 of the Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Foundation Act (20 U.S.C. 5604) is amended— (1)in paragraph (4), by striking establish a Program for Environmental Policy Research and Environmental Conflict Resolution and Training at the Center and inserting establish a program for environmental policy research at the Center and a program for environmental conflict resolution and training at the United States Institute for Environmental Conflict Resolution;
 (2)in paragraph (5), by inserting , natural resource, conflict resolution, after environmental; (3)in paragraph (7)—
 (A)by inserting at the Native Nations Institute after develop resources; and (B)by inserting providing education to and after policy, by; and
 (4)in paragraph (8), by striking resolve environmental and inserting resolve environmental issues, conflicts, and. 5.Authority of the foundationSection 7 of the Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Foundation Act (20 U.S.C. 5605) is amended—
 (1)in subsection (a)— (A)in paragraph (1)—
 (i)by striking subparagraphs (A) through (C) and inserting the following:  (A)General programming authorityThe Foundation is authorized to identify and conduct, directly or by contract, such programs, activities, and services as the Foundation considers appropriate to carry out the purposes described in section 6, which may include—
 (i)awarding scholarships, fellowships, internships, and grants, by national competition or other method, to eligible individuals, as determined by the Foundation and in accordance with paragraphs (2), (3), and (4), for study in fields related to the environment or Native American and Alaska Native health care and tribal policy;
 (ii)funding the Center to carry out and manage other programs, activities, and services; and (iii)other education programs that the Board determines are consistent with the purposes for which the Foundation is established.;
 (ii)by redesignating subparagraph (D) as subparagraph (B); and (iii)in subparagraph (B), as redesignated—
 (I)in clause (i)(II)— (aa)by inserting collaboration, after mediation,; and
 (bb)by striking to resolve environmental disputes. and inserting the following:  to resolve—(aa)environmental disputes; and (bb)Federal, State, or tribal environmental or natural resource decision-making processes or procedures that may result in a dispute or conflict that may cause or result in disputes.; and
 (II)in clause (ii), by inserting collaboration, after mediation,; (B)by striking paragraph (5);
 (C)by redesignating paragraphs (6) and (7) as paragraphs (7) and (8), respectively; (D)by inserting after paragraph (4) the following:

 (5)Parks in focusThe Foundation shall— (A)identify and invite the participation of youth throughout the United States to enjoy the Nation’s parks and wilderness and other outdoor areas, in an education program intended to carry out the purpose of paragraphs (1) and (2) of section 6; and
 (B)provide training and education programs and activities to teach Federal employees, natural resource professionals, elementary and secondary school educators, and others to work with youth to promote the use and enjoyment of the Nation’s parks and wilderness and other outdoor areas.
 (6)Specific programsThe Foundation shall assist in the development and implementation of programs at the Center— (A)to provide for an annual meeting of experts to discuss contemporary environmental issues;
 (B)to conduct environmental policy research; and (C)to promote dialogue with visiting policymakers on environmental, natural resource, and public lands issues.;
 (E)in paragraph (7), as redesignated by subparagraph (C), by striking Morris K. Udall’s papers and inserting the papers of Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall; and (F)by adding at the end the following:

 (9)Native nations instituteThe Foundation shall provide direct or indirect assistance to the Native Nations Institute from the annual appropriations to the Trust Fund in such amounts as Congress may direct to conduct research and provide education and training to Native American and Alaska Native professionals and leaders on Native American and Alaska Native health care issues and tribal public policy issues as provided in section 6(7).;
 (2)by striking subsection (c) and inserting the following:  (c)Program priorities (1)In generalThe Foundation shall determine the priority of the programs to be carried out under this Act and the amount of funds to be allocated for such programs from the funds earned annually from the interest derived from the investment of the Trust Fund, subject to paragraph (2).
 (2)LimitationsIn determining the amount of funds to be allocated for programs carried out under this Act for a year—
 (A)not less than 50 percent of such annual interest earnings shall be utilized for the programs set forth in paragraphs (2), (3), (4), and (5) of subsection (a);
 (B)not more than 20 percent of such annual interest earnings shall be allocated for salaries and other administrative purposes; and
 (C)not less than 20 percent of such annual interest earnings shall be appropriated to the Center for activities under paragraphs (7) and (8) of subsection (a).; and
 (3)by adding at the end the following:  (d)DonationsAny funds received by the Foundation in the form of donations or grants, as well as any unexpended earnings on interest from the Trust Fund that is carried forward from prior years—
 (1)shall not be included in the calculation of the funds available for allocations pursuant to subsection (c); and
 (2)shall be available to carry out the provisions of this Act as the Board determines to be necessary and appropriate..
 6.Use of institute by Federal agency or other entitySection 11 of the Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Foundation Act (20 U.S.C. 5607b) is amended— (1)in subsection (a)—
 (A)by inserting collaboration, after mediation,; and (B)by striking resources. and inserting resources, or with a Federal, State, or tribal process or procedure that may result in a dispute or conflict.; and
 (2)in subsection (c)(2)(C), by inserting mediation, collaboration, and after agree to. 7.Administrative provisionsSection 12 of the Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Foundation Act (20 U.S.C. 5608) is amended—
 (1)in subsection (a)— (A)in paragraph (4), by striking accept, hold, administer, and utilize gifts and inserting accept, hold, solicit, administer, and utilize donations, grants, and gifts; and
 (B)in paragraph (7), by striking in the District of Columbia or its environs and inserting in the District of Columbia and Tucson, Arizona, or their environs; and (2)in subsection (b), by striking , with the exception of paragraph (4),.
 8.Authorization of appropriationsSection 13(b) of the Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Foundation Act (20 U.S.C. 5609(b)) is amended by striking fiscal years 2004 through 2008 and inserting fiscal years 2019 through 2024.


		II
		110th CONGRESS
		1st Session
		S. 1051
		IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES

			March 29, 2007
			Mr. Dodd (for himself,
			 Mr. Grassley, Mr. Obama, and Mrs.
			 Dole) introduced the following bill; which was read twice and
			 referred to the Committee on Energy and
			 Natural Resources

		A BILL
		To authorize National Mall Liberty Fund D.C. to establish
		  a memorial on Federal land in the District of Columbia at Constitution Gardens
		  previously approved to honor free persons and slaves who fought for
		  independence, liberty, and justice for all during the American
		  Revolution.

		1.Short
			 titleThis Act may be cited as
			 the National Liberty Memorial
			 Act.
		2.FindingCongress finds that the contributions of
			 free persons and slaves who fought during the American Revolution were of
			 preeminent historical and lasting significance to the United States, as
			 required by section 8908(b)(1) of title 40, United States Code.
		3.The national
			 liberty memorialPublic Law
			 99–558 (40 U.S.C. 8903 note; 100 Stat. 3144) is amended—
			(1)in section 1—
				(A)in the first sentence—
					(i)by striking The Black Revolutionary
			 War Patriots Foundation is authorized to establish a memorial and
			 inserting the following—

							(a)In
				generalNational Mall Liberty
				Fund D.C. may establish a memorial (referred to in this Act as the
				memorial)
							;
				and
					(ii)by
			 striking Federal land in the District of Columbia and its
			 environs and inserting the Federal land in the District of
			 Columbia described in subsection (b); and
					(B)by striking the
			 second sentence and inserting the following:

						(b)Description of
				landThe Federal land referred to in subsection (a) is the
				portion of land at Constitution Gardens, located on the south side of
				Constitution Lake and west of the island, that was previously selected as the
				site for the memorial.
						(c)Applicable
				lawThe memorial shall be established in accordance with chapter
				89 of title 40, United States Code.
						;
				and
				(2)in section 2, by
			 striking The Black Revolutionary War Patriots Foundation and
			 inserting National Mall Liberty Fund D.C..


I115th CONGRESS1st SessionH. R. 525IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVESJanuary 13, 2017Mr. Crawford (for himself, Mr. Conaway, Mr. Abraham, Mr. Poe of Texas, Mr. Comer, Ms. Lee, Ms. Kelly of Illinois, Ms. DelBene, Mr. Farenthold, Mr. Thompson of Mississippi, Mr. Moulton, Mr. Emmer, Ms. McCollum, Ms. Castor of Florida, Mr. Harper, Mr. Westerman, Mr. Rokita, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Smith of Missouri, Mr. Rodney Davis of Illinois, Mr. Palazzo, Mr. Young of Alaska, Mr. Thompson of Pennsylvania, Mr. Banks of Indiana, Mrs. Bustos, Mr. Beyer, and Mr. Jones) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and in addition to the Committees on Financial Services, and Agriculture, 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 modify the prohibition on United States assistance and financing for certain exports to Cuba under the Trade Sanctions Reform and Export Enhancement Act of 2000, and for other purposes.
1.Short titleThis Act may be cited as the Cuba Agricultural Exports Act. 2.FindingsCongress finds the following:
(1)The United States has a long history of providing safe and reliable exports. Close proximity to Cuba lends itself to low transportation costs for United States goods exported to Cuba. The United States is geographically poised to be a significant trading partner in agricultural commodities. (2)Cuba imports approximately 80 percent of its food, with global agricultural exports to Cuba doubling over the past decade to $1,900,000,000.
(3)In 2005, the United States Department of the Treasury published a final rule narrowing the definition of cash in advance for trading with Cuba, requiring that cash payments must be made before United States products leave United States ports, rather than the more customary payment upon delivery. United States firms are precluded from offering credit to ALIMPORT, a state-owned and state-controlled entity that makes all decisions regarding United States exports to the Cuban market, resulting in declining United States agricultural exports to Cuba. Notably, rice exports fell from a value of $64,000,000 in 2004 to essentially $0 in 2009 and subsequent years. (4)Recent action by the Obama administration reversed that change to the definition of cash in advance, but United States agricultural exporters are still not permitted to extend credit to Cuban buyers, a key disadvantage relative to other exporting countries.
(5)In addition, there is no opportunity for United States agricultural businesses to trade directly with the Cuban people and there is no Cuban market; United States businesses have only one venue to trade with Cuba and that is through ALIMPORT, the state-owned and state-controlled entity described in paragraph (3). (6)Despite these restrictions, the United States has been the largest exporter of agricultural goods to Cuba over the last decade. However, the United States slipped to being the second leading exporter of agricultural goods to Cuba in 2013 and the third leading exporter of agricultural goods to Cuba in 2014.
(7)While trade opportunities exist, Cuba remains an undemocratic autocracy that oppresses its own people and restricts freedom. (8)With these cautionary factors in mind, it is important to provide United States farmers and ranchers additional opportunities to benefit from trade with Cuba.
3.Modification of prohibition on United States assistance and financing for certain exports to Cuba under the Trade Sanctions Reform and Export Enhancement Act of 2000Section 908 of the Trade Sanctions Reform and Export Enhancement Act of 2000 (22 U.S.C. 7207) is amended as follows: (1)In the section heading, by striking and financing.
(2)In subsection (a), by adding at the end the following:  (4)Exception for certain programs (A)In generalSubject to subparagraph (B), paragraph (1) shall not apply with respect to—
(i)exports to Cuba under section 202 of the Agricultural Trade Act of 1978 (7 U.S.C. 5622), section 203 of the Agricultural Trade Act of 1978 (7 U.S.C. 5623), or section 702 of the Agricultural Trade Act of 1978 (7 U.S.C. 5722); or (ii)any obligation or expenditure of funds to promote trade with Cuba by Federal commodity promotion programs established in accordance with a commodity promotion law, as defined by section 501(a) of the Federal Agriculture Improvement and Reform Act of 1996 (7 U.S.C. 7401(a)).
(B)Restriction on certain recipientsThe exceptions under subparagraph (A) shall not apply if the recipient of the United States assistance would be an entity controlled by the Government of Cuba, including the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Cuba, the Ministry of the Interior of Cuba, and any subdivision of either such governmental entity.. (3)In subsection (b), to read as follows:

(b)Financing of sales of agricultural commodities to Cuba
(1)In generalA person subject to the jurisdiction of the United States may provide payment or financing for sales of agricultural commodities to Cuba or to an individual or entity in Cuba. (2)DefinitionsIn this section:
(A)Agricultural commodityThe term agricultural commodity has the meaning given that term in section 102 of the Agricultural Trade Act of 1978 (7 U.S.C. 5602). (B)FinancingThe term financing includes any loan or extension of credit..
4.Authority of persons subject to the jurisdiction of the United States to invest with respect to certain agricultural business in Cuba
(a)In generalNotwithstanding any other provision of law, a person subject to the jurisdiction of the United States may make an investment with respect to the development of an agricultural business in Cuba if the Secretary of State and Secretary of Agriculture jointly determine that— (1)the agricultural business is not controlled by the Government of Cuba, including the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Cuba, the Ministry of the Interior of Cuba, or any subdivision of either such governmental entity; and
(2)the agricultural business does not traffic in the property of persons subject to the jurisdiction of the United States that was confiscated by the Cuban Government on or after January 1, 1959. (b)DefinitionsIn this section:
(1)Agricultural businessThe term agricultural business means any entity involved in the production, manufacture, or distribution of agricultural products (as such term is defined in section 207 of the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946 (7 U.S.C. 1626)). (2)Confiscated, Cuban Government, property, and trafficThe terms confiscated, Cuban Government, property, and traffic have the meanings given such terms in section 4 of the Cuban Liberty and Democratic Solidarity (LIBERTAD) Act of 1996 (22 U.S.C. 6023).
(3)InvestmentThe term investment, with respect to the development of an agricultural business in Cuba, means— (A)entry into a contract involving the purchase of a share of ownership, including an equity interest, in the development of the agricultural business;
(B)entry into a contract providing for participation in royalties, earnings, or profits in the development of the agricultural business; or (C)entry into, or performance or financing of, a contract to sell goods, services, or technology relating to the agricultural business.


115 HR 4287 IH: Broadband Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act of 2017
U.S. House of Representatives
2017-11-07
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. 4287IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVESNovember 7, 2017Mr. Ben Ray Luján of New Mexico (for himself, Ms. Clarke of New York, Mr. Evans, Mr. Khanna, Ms. Michelle Lujan Grisham of New Mexico, Mr. McNerney, Mr. O'Halleran, Mr. Polis, Mr. Ruiz, and Mr. Ryan of Ohio) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Energy and CommerceA BILLTo establish a broadband infrastructure finance and innovation program to make available loans,
			 loan guarantees, and lines of credit for the construction and deployment
			 of broadband infrastructure, and for other purposes.

		1.Short title; table of contents
 (a)Short titleThis Act may be cited as the Broadband Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act of 2017. (b)Table of contentsThe table of contents for this Act is as follows:

					Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents.
					Sec. 2. Definitions.
					Sec. 3. Determination of eligibility and project selection.
					Sec. 4. Secured loans.
					Sec. 5. Lines of credit.
					Sec. 6. Alternative prudential lending standards for small projects.
					Sec. 7. Program administration.
					Sec. 8. State and local permits.
					Sec. 9. Regulations.
					Sec. 10. Funding.
					Sec. 11. Reports to Congress.
 2.DefinitionsIn this Act: (1)Assistant SecretaryThe term Assistant Secretary means the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information.
 (2)BIFIA programThe term BIFIA program means the broadband infrastructure finance and innovation program established under this Act. (3)Broadband serviceThe term broadband service means broadband Internet access service (as defined in section 8.2 of title 47, Code of Federal Regulations).
 (4)Eligible project costsThe term eligible project costs means amounts substantially all of which are paid by, or for the account of, an obligor in connection with a project, including the cost of—
 (A)development phase activities, including planning, feasibility analysis, revenue forecasting, environmental review, historic preservation review, permitting, preliminary engineering and design work, and other preconstruction activities;
 (B)construction and deployment phase activities, including— (i)construction, reconstruction, rehabilitation, replacement, and acquisition of real property (including land relating to the project and improvements to land), equipment, instrumentation, networking capability, hardware and software, and digital network technology;
 (ii)environmental mitigation; and (iii)construction contingencies; and
 (C)capitalized interest necessary to meet market requirements, reasonably required reserve funds, capital issuance expenses, and other carrying costs during construction and deployment.
 (5)Federal credit instrumentThe term Federal credit instrument means a secured loan, loan guarantee, or line of credit authorized to be made available under the BIFIA program with respect to a project.
 (6)Investment-grade ratingThe term investment-grade rating means a rating of BBB minus, Baa3, bbb minus, BBB (low), or higher assigned by a rating agency to project obligations.
 (7)LenderThe term lender means any non-Federal qualified institutional buyer (as defined in section 230.144A(a) of title 17, Code of Federal Regulations (or any successor regulation), known as Rule 144A(a) of the Securities and Exchange Commission and issued under the Securities Act of 1933 (15 U.S.C. 77a et seq.)), including—
 (A)a qualified retirement plan (as defined in section 4974(c) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986) that is a qualified institutional buyer; and
 (B)a governmental plan (as defined in section 414(d) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986) that is a qualified institutional buyer.
 (8)Letter of interestThe term letter of interest means a letter submitted by a potential applicant prior to an application for credit assistance in a format prescribed by the Assistant Secretary on the website of the BIFIA program that—
 (A)describes the project and the location, purpose, and cost of the project; (B)outlines the proposed financial plan, including the requested credit assistance and the proposed obligor;
 (C)provides a status of environmental review; and (D)provides information regarding satisfaction of other eligibility requirements of the BIFIA program.
 (9)Line of creditThe term line of credit means an agreement entered into by the Assistant Secretary with an obligor under section 5 to provide a direct loan at a future date upon the occurrence of certain events.
 (10)Loan guaranteeThe term loan guarantee means any guarantee or other pledge by the Assistant Secretary to pay all or part of the principal of and interest on a loan or other debt obligation issued by an obligor and funded by a lender.
 (11)ObligorThe term obligor means a party that— (A)is primarily liable for payment of the principal of or interest on a Federal credit instrument; and
 (B)may be a corporation, company, partnership, joint venture, trust, or governmental entity, agency, or instrumentality.
 (12)ProjectThe term project means a project— (A)to construct and deploy infrastructure for the provision of broadband service; and
 (B)that the Assistant Secretary determines will— (i)provide access or improved access to broadband service to consumers residing in areas of the United States where such service is not available with a download speed of at least 100 megabits per second and an upload speed of at least 3 megabits per second; or
 (ii)provide access or improved access to broadband service to— (I)schools, libraries, medical and healthcare providers, community colleges and other institutions of higher education, and other community support organizations and entities to facilitate greater use of broadband service by or through such organizations;
 (II)organizations and agencies that provide outreach, access, equipment, and support services to facilitate greater use of broadband service by low-income, unemployed, aged, and otherwise vulnerable populations;
 (III)job-creating strategic facilities located within a State-designated economic zone, Economic Development District designated by the Department of Commerce, Renewal Community or Empowerment Zone designated by the Department of Housing and Urban Development, or Enterprise Community designated by the Department of Agriculture; or
 (IV)public safety agencies. (13)Project obligationThe term project obligation means any note, bond, debenture, or other debt obligation issued by an obligor in connection with the financing of a project, other than a Federal credit instrument.
 (14)Public authorityThe term public authority means a Federal, State, county, town, or township, Indian tribe, municipal or other local government or instrumentality with authority to finance, build, operate, or maintain infrastructure for the provision of broadband service.
 (15)Rating agencyThe term rating agency means a credit rating agency registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission as a nationally recognized statistical rating organization (as defined in section 3(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (15 U.S.C. 78c(a))).
 (16)Secured loanThe term secured loan means a direct loan or other debt obligation issued by an obligor and funded by the Assistant Secretary in connection with the financing of a project under section 4.
 (17)Small projectThe term small project means a project having eligible project costs that are reasonably anticipated not to equal or exceed $20,000,000.
 (18)StateThe term State has the meaning given such term in section 3 of the Communications Act of 1934 (47 U.S.C. 153). (19)Subsidy amountThe term subsidy amount means the amount of budget authority sufficient to cover the estimated long-term cost to the Federal Government of a Federal credit instrument—
 (A)calculated on a net present value basis; and (B)excluding administrative costs and any incidental effects on governmental receipts or outlays in accordance with the Federal Credit Reform Act of 1990 (2 U.S.C. 661 et seq.).
 (20)Substantial completionThe term substantial completion means, with respect to a project receiving credit assistance under the BIFIA program— (A)the commencement of the provision of broadband service using the infrastructure being financed; or
 (B)a comparable event, as determined by the Assistant Secretary and specified in the credit agreement. 3.Determination of eligibility and project selection (a)Eligibility (1)In generalA project shall be eligible to receive credit assistance under the BIFIA program if—
 (A)the entity proposing to carry out the project submits a letter of interest prior to submission of a formal application for the project; and
 (B)the project meets the criteria described in this subsection. (2)Creditworthiness (A)In generalExcept as provided in subparagraph (B), to be eligible for assistance under the BIFIA program, a project shall satisfy applicable creditworthiness standards, which, at a minimum, shall include—
 (i)adequate coverage requirements to ensure repayment; (ii)an investment-grade rating from at least 2 rating agencies on debt senior to the Federal credit instrument; and
 (iii)a rating from at least 2 rating agencies on the Federal credit instrument. (B)Small projectsIn order for a small project to be eligible for assistance under the BIFIA program, such project shall satisfy alternative creditworthiness standards that shall be established by the Assistant Secretary under section 6 for purposes of this paragraph.
 (3)ApplicationA State, local government, agency or instrumentality of a State or local government, public authority, public-private partnership, or any other legal entity undertaking the project and authorized by the Assistant Secretary shall submit a project application that is acceptable to the Assistant Secretary.
 (4)Eligible project cost parameters for infrastructure projectsEligible project costs shall be reasonably anticipated to equal or exceed $2,000,000 in the case of a project or program of projects—
 (A)in which the applicant is a local government, instrumentality of local government, or public authority (other than a public authority that is a Federal or State government or instrumentality);
 (B)located on a facility owned by a local government; or (C)for which the Assistant Secretary determines that a local government is substantially involved in the development of the project.
 (5)Dedicated revenue sourcesThe applicable Federal credit instrument shall be repayable, in whole or in part, from— (A)amounts charged to—
 (i)subscribers of broadband service for such service; or (ii)subscribers of any related service provided over the same infrastructure for such related service;
 (B)user fees; (C)payments owing to the obligor under a public-private partnership; or
 (D)other dedicated revenue sources that also secure or fund the project obligations. (6)Applications where obligor will be identified laterA State, local government, agency or instrumentality of a State or local government, or public authority may submit to the Assistant Secretary an application under paragraph (3), under which a private party to a public-private partnership will be—
 (A)the obligor; and (B)identified later through completion of a procurement and selection of the private party.
 (7)Beneficial effectsThe Assistant Secretary shall determine that financial assistance for the project under the BIFIA program will—
 (A)foster, if appropriate, partnerships that attract public and private investment for the project; (B)enable the project to proceed at an earlier date than the project would otherwise be able to proceed or reduce the lifecycle costs (including debt service costs) of the project; and
 (C)reduce the contribution of Federal grant assistance for the project. (8)Project readinessTo be eligible for assistance under the BIFIA program, the applicant shall demonstrate a reasonable expectation that the contracting process for the construction and deployment of infrastructure for the provision of broadband service through the project can commence by no later than 90 days after the date on which a Federal credit instrument is obligated for the project under the BIFIA program.
				(b)Selection Among Eligible Projects
 (1)Establishment of application processThe Assistant Secretary shall establish a rolling application process under which projects that are eligible to receive credit assistance under subsection (a) shall receive credit assistance on terms acceptable to the Assistant Secretary, if adequate funds are available to cover the subsidy costs associated with the Federal credit instrument.
 (2)Preliminary rating opinion letterThe Assistant Secretary shall require each project applicant to provide— (A)a preliminary rating opinion letter from at least 1 rating agency—
 (i)indicating that the senior obligations of the project, which may be the Federal credit instrument, have the potential to achieve an investment-grade rating; and
 (ii)including a preliminary rating opinion on the Federal credit instrument; or (B)in the case of a small project, alternative documentation that the Assistant Secretary shall require in the standards established under section 6 for purposes of this paragraph.
 (3)Technology neutrality requiredIn selecting projects to receive credit assistance under the BIFIA program, the Assistant Secretary may not favor a project using any particular technology.
				(c)Federal Requirements
 (1)In generalThe following provisions of law shall apply to funds made available under the BIFIA program and projects assisted with those funds:
 (A)Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (42 U.S.C. 2000d et seq.). (B)The National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.).
 (C)54 U.S.C. 300101 et seq. (commonly referred to as the National Historic Preservation Act). (D)The Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970 (42 U.S.C. 4601 et seq.).
 (2)NEPANo funding shall be obligated for a project that has not received an environmental categorical exclusion, a finding of no significant impact, or a record of decision under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.).
 (3)Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964For purposes of title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (42 U.S.C. 2000d et seq.), any project that receives credit assistance under the BIFIA program shall be considered a program or activity within the meaning of section 606 of such title (42 U.S.C. 2000d–4a).
				(d)Application Processing Procedures
 (1)Notice of complete applicationNot later than 30 days after the date of receipt of an application under this section, the Assistant Secretary shall provide to the applicant a written notice to inform the applicant whether—
 (A)the application is complete; or (B)additional information or materials are needed to complete the application.
 (2)Approval or denial of applicationNot later than 60 days after the date of issuance of the written notice under paragraph (1), the Assistant Secretary shall provide to the applicant a written notice informing the applicant whether the Assistant Secretary has approved or disapproved the application.
 (3)Approval before NEPA reviewSubject to subsection (c)(2), an application for a project may be approved before the project receives an environmental categorical exclusion, a finding of no significant impact, or a record of decision under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.).
 (e)Development Phase ActivitiesAny credit instrument secured under the BIFIA program may be used to finance up to 100 percent of the cost of development phase activities as described in section 2(4)(A).
			4.Secured loans
			(a)In General
 (1)AgreementsSubject to paragraphs (2) and (3), the Assistant Secretary may enter into agreements with one or more obligors to make secured loans, the proceeds of which shall be used—
 (A)to finance eligible project costs of any project selected under section 3; (B)to refinance interim construction financing of eligible project costs of any project selected under section 3; or
 (C)to refinance long-term project obligations or Federal credit instruments, if the refinancing provides additional funding capacity for the completion, enhancement, or expansion of any project that—
 (i)is selected under section 3; or (ii)otherwise meets the requirements of section 3.
 (2)Limitation on refinancing of interim construction financingA loan under paragraph (1) shall not refinance interim construction financing under paragraph (1)(B)—
 (A)if the maturity of such interim construction financing is later than 1 year after the substantial completion of the project; and
 (B)later than 1 year after the date of substantial completion of the project. (3)Risk assessmentBefore entering into an agreement under this subsection, the Assistant Secretary, in consultation with the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, shall determine an appropriate capital reserve subsidy amount for each secured loan, taking into account each rating letter provided by a rating agency under section 3(b)(2)(A)(ii) or, in the case of a small project, the alternative documentation provided under section 3(b)(2)(B).
				(b)Terms and Limitations
 (1)In generalA secured loan under this section with respect to a project shall be on such terms and conditions and contain such covenants, representations, warranties, and requirements (including requirements for audits) as the Assistant Secretary determines to be appropriate.
 (2)Maximum amountThe amount of a secured loan under this section shall not exceed the lesser of 49 percent of the reasonably anticipated eligible project costs or, if the secured loan is not for a small project and does not receive an investment-grade rating, the amount of the senior project obligations.
 (3)PaymentA secured loan under this section— (A)shall—
 (i)be payable, in whole or in part, from— (I)amounts charged to—
 (aa)subscribers of broadband service for such service; or (bb)subscribers of any related service provided over the same infrastructure for such related service;
 (II)user fees; (III)payments owing to the obligor under a public-private partnership; or
 (IV)other dedicated revenue sources that also secure the senior project obligations; and (ii)include a coverage requirement or similar security feature supporting the project obligations; and
 (B)may have a lien on revenues described in subparagraph (A), subject to any lien securing project obligations.
 (4)Interest rateThe interest rate on a secured loan under this section shall be not less than the yield on United States Treasury securities of a similar maturity to the maturity of the secured loan on the date of execution of the loan agreement.
 (5)Maturity dateThe final maturity date of the secured loan shall be the lesser of— (A)35 years after the date of substantial completion of the project; and
 (B)if the useful life of the infrastructure for the provision of broadband service being financed is of a lesser period, the useful life of the infrastructure.
					(6)Nonsubordination
 (A)In generalExcept as provided in subparagraph (B), the secured loan shall not be subordinated to the claims of any holder of project obligations in the event of bankruptcy, insolvency, or liquidation of the obligor.
					(B)Preexisting indenture
 (i)In generalThe Assistant Secretary shall waive the requirement under subparagraph (A) for a public agency borrower that is financing ongoing capital programs and has outstanding senior bonds under a preexisting indenture, if—
 (I)the secured loan— (aa)is rated in the A category or higher; or
 (bb)in the case of a small project, meets an alternative standard that the Assistant Secretary shall establish under section 6 for purposes of this subclause;
 (II)the secured loan is secured and payable from pledged revenues not affected by project performance, such as a tax-backed revenue pledge or a system-backed pledge of project revenues; and
 (III)the BIFIA program share of eligible project costs is 33 percent or less. (ii)LimitationIf the Assistant Secretary waives the nonsubordination requirement under this subparagraph—
 (I)the maximum credit subsidy to be paid by the Federal Government shall be not more than 10 percent of the principal amount of the secured loan; and
 (II)the obligor shall be responsible for paying the remainder of the subsidy cost, if any. (7)FeesThe Assistant Secretary may establish fees at a level sufficient to cover all or a portion of the costs to the Federal Government of making a secured loan under this section.
 (8)Non-Federal shareThe proceeds of a secured loan under the BIFIA program, if the loan is repayable from non-Federal funds—
 (A)may be used for any non-Federal share of project costs required under this Act; and (B)shall not count toward the total Federal assistance provided for a project for purposes of paragraph (9).
 (9)Maximum Federal involvementThe total Federal assistance provided for a project receiving a loan under the BIFIA program shall not exceed 80 percent of the total project cost.
				(c)Repayment
 (1)ScheduleThe Assistant Secretary shall establish a repayment schedule for each secured loan under this section based on—
 (A)the projected cash flow from project revenues and other repayment sources; and (B)the useful life of the infrastructure for the provision of broadband service being financed.
 (2)CommencementScheduled loan repayments of principal or interest on a secured loan under this section shall commence not later than 5 years after the date of substantial completion of the project.
				(3)Deferred payments
 (A)In generalIf, at any time after the date of substantial completion of the project, the project is unable to generate sufficient revenues to pay the scheduled loan repayments of principal and interest on the secured loan, the Assistant Secretary may, subject to subparagraph (C), allow the obligor to add unpaid principal and interest to the outstanding balance of the secured loan.
 (B)InterestAny payment deferred under subparagraph (A) shall— (i)continue to accrue interest in accordance with subsection (b)(4) until fully repaid; and
 (ii)be scheduled to be amortized over the remaining term of the loan. (C)Criteria (i)In generalAny payment deferral under subparagraph (A) shall be contingent on the project meeting criteria established by the Assistant Secretary.
 (ii)Repayment standardsThe criteria established pursuant to clause (i) shall include standards for reasonable assurance of repayment.
						(4)Prepayment
 (A)Use of excess revenuesAny excess revenues that remain after satisfying scheduled debt service requirements on the project obligations and secured loan and all deposit requirements under the terms of any trust agreement, bond resolution, or similar agreement securing project obligations may be applied annually to prepay the secured loan without penalty.
 (B)Use of proceeds of refinancingThe secured loan may be prepaid at any time without penalty from the proceeds of refinancing from non-Federal funding sources.
					(d)Sale of Secured Loans
 (1)In generalSubject to paragraph (2), as soon as practicable after substantial completion of a project and after notifying the obligor, the Assistant Secretary may sell to another entity or reoffer into the capital markets a secured loan for the project if the Assistant Secretary determines that the sale or reoffering can be made on favorable terms.
 (2)Consent of obligorIn making a sale or reoffering under paragraph (1), the Assistant Secretary may not change the original terms and conditions of the secured loan without the written consent of the obligor.
				(e)Loan Guarantees
 (1)In generalThe Assistant Secretary may provide a loan guarantee to a lender in lieu of making a secured loan under this section if the Assistant Secretary determines that the budgetary cost of the loan guarantee is substantially the same as that of a secured loan.
 (2)TermsThe terms of a loan guarantee under paragraph (1) shall be consistent with the terms required under this section for a secured loan, except that the rate on the guaranteed loan and any prepayment features shall be negotiated between the obligor and the lender, with the consent of the Assistant Secretary.
				(f)Streamlined Application Process
 (1)In generalThe Assistant Secretary shall develop one or more expedited application processes, available at the request of entities seeking secured loans under the BIFIA program, that use a set or sets of conventional terms established pursuant to this section.
 (2)TermsIn establishing the streamlined application process required by this subsection, the Assistant Secretary may allow for an expedited application period and include terms such as those that require—
 (A)that the project be a small project; (B)the secured loan to be secured and payable from pledged revenues not affected by project performance, such as a tax-backed revenue pledge, tax increment financing, or a system-backed pledge of project revenues; and
 (C)repayment of the loan to commence not later than 5 years after disbursement. 5.Lines of credit (a)In General (1)AgreementsSubject to paragraphs (2) through (4), the Assistant Secretary may enter into agreements to make available to one or more obligors lines of credit in the form of direct loans to be made by the Assistant Secretary at future dates on the occurrence of certain events for any project selected under section 3.
 (2)Use of proceedsThe proceeds of a line of credit made available under this section shall be available to pay debt service on project obligations issued to finance eligible project costs, extraordinary repair and replacement costs, operation and maintenance expenses, and costs associated with unexpected Federal or State environmental restrictions.
				(3)Risk assessment
 (A)In generalExcept as provided in subparagraph (B), before entering into an agreement under this subsection, the Assistant Secretary, in consultation with the Director of the Office of Management and Budget and each rating agency providing a preliminary rating opinion letter under section 3(b)(2)(A), shall determine an appropriate capital reserve subsidy amount for each line of credit, taking into account the rating opinion letter.
 (B)Small projectsBefore entering into an agreement under this subsection to make available a line of credit for a small project, the Assistant Secretary, in consultation with the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, shall determine an appropriate capital reserve subsidy amount for each such line of credit, taking into account the alternative documentation provided under section 3(b)(2)(B) instead of preliminary rating opinion letters provided under section 3(b)(2)(A).
 (4)Investment-grade rating requirementThe funding of a line of credit under this section shall be contingent on— (A)the senior obligations of the project receiving an investment-grade rating from 2 rating agencies; or
 (B)in the case of a small project, the project meeting an alternative standard that the Assistant Secretary shall establish under section 6 for purposes of this paragraph.
					(b)Terms and Limitations
 (1)In generalA line of credit under this section with respect to a project shall be on such terms and conditions and contain such covenants, representations, warranties, and requirements (including requirements for audits) as the Assistant Secretary determines to be appropriate.
 (2)Maximum amountsThe total amount of a line of credit under this section shall not exceed 33 percent of the reasonably anticipated eligible project costs.
 (3)DrawsAny draw on a line of credit under this section shall— (A)represent a direct loan; and
 (B)be made only if net revenues from the project (including capitalized interest, but not including reasonably required financing reserves) are insufficient to pay the costs specified in subsection (a)(2).
 (4)Interest rateThe interest rate on a direct loan resulting from a draw on the line of credit shall be not less than the yield on 30-year United States Treasury securities, as of the date of execution of the line of credit agreement.
 (5)SecurityA line of credit issued under this section— (A)shall—
 (i)be payable, in whole or in part, from— (I)amounts charged to—
 (aa)subscribers of broadband service for such service; or (bb)subscribers of any related service provided over the same infrastructure for such related service;
 (II)user fees; (III)payments owing to the obligor under a public-private partnership; or
 (IV)other dedicated revenue sources that also secure the senior project obligations; and (ii)include a coverage requirement or similar security feature supporting the project obligations; and
 (B)may have a lien on revenues described in subparagraph (A), subject to any lien securing project obligations.
 (6)Period of availabilityThe full amount of a line of credit under this section, to the extent not drawn upon, shall be available during the 10-year period beginning on the date of substantial completion of the project.
				(7)Rights of third-party creditors
 (A)Against Federal GovernmentA third-party creditor of the obligor shall not have any right against the Federal Government with respect to any draw on a line of credit under this section.
 (B)AssignmentAn obligor may assign a line of credit under this section to— (i)one or more lenders; or
 (ii)a trustee on the behalf of such a lender. (8)Nonsubordination (A)In generalExcept as provided in subparagraph (B), a direct loan under this section shall not be subordinated to the claims of any holder of project obligations in the event of bankruptcy, insolvency, or liquidation of the obligor.
					(B)Pre-existing indenture
 (i)In generalThe Assistant Secretary shall waive the requirement of subparagraph (A) for a public agency borrower that is financing ongoing capital programs and has outstanding senior bonds under a preexisting indenture, if—
 (I)the line of credit— (aa)is rated in the A category or higher; or
 (bb)in the case of a small project, meets an alternative standard that the Assistant Secretary shall establish under section 6 for purposes of this subclause;
 (II)the BIFIA program loan resulting from a draw on the line of credit is payable from pledged revenues not affected by project performance, such as a tax-backed revenue pledge or a system-backed pledge of project revenues; and
 (III)the BIFIA program share of eligible project costs is 33 percent or less. (ii)LimitationIf the Assistant Secretary waives the nonsubordination requirement under this subparagraph—
 (I)the maximum credit subsidy to be paid by the Federal Government shall be not more than 10 percent of the principal amount of the secured loan; and
 (II)the obligor shall be responsible for paying the remainder of the subsidy cost. (9)FeesThe Assistant Secretary may establish fees at a level sufficient to cover all or a portion of the costs to the Federal Government of providing a line of credit under this section.
 (10)Relationship to other credit instrumentsA project that receives a line of credit under this section also shall not receive a secured loan or loan guarantee under section 4 in an amount that, combined with the amount of the line of credit, exceeds 49 percent of eligible project costs.
				(c)Repayment
 (1)Terms and conditionsThe Assistant Secretary shall establish repayment terms and conditions for each direct loan under this section based on—
 (A)the projected cash flow from project revenues and other repayment sources; and (B)the useful life of the infrastructure for the provision of broadband service being financed.
 (2)TimingAll repayments of principal or interest on a direct loan under this section shall be scheduled— (A)to commence not later than 5 years after the end of the period of availability specified in subsection (b)(6); and
 (B)to conclude, with full repayment of principal and interest, by the date that is 25 years after the end of the period of availability specified in subsection (b)(6).
 6.Alternative prudential lending standards for small projectsNot later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Assistant Secretary shall establish alternative, streamlined prudential lending standards for small projects receiving credit assistance under the BIFIA program to ensure that such projects pose no additional risk to the Federal Government, as compared with projects that are not small projects.
		7.Program administration
 (a)RequirementThe Assistant Secretary shall establish a uniform system to service the Federal credit instruments made available under the BIFIA program.
 (b)FeesThe Assistant Secretary may collect and spend fees, contingent on authority being provided in appropriations Acts, at a level that is sufficient to cover—
 (1)the costs of services of expert firms retained pursuant to subsection (d); and (2)all or a portion of the costs to the Federal Government of servicing the Federal credit instruments.
				(c)Servicer
 (1)In generalThe Assistant Secretary may appoint a financial entity to assist the Assistant Secretary in servicing the Federal credit instruments.
 (2)DutiesA servicer appointed under paragraph (1) shall act as the agent for the Assistant Secretary. (3)FeeA servicer appointed under paragraph (1) shall receive a servicing fee, subject to approval by the Assistant Secretary.
 (d)Assistance From Expert FirmsThe Assistant Secretary may retain the services of expert firms, including counsel, in the field of municipal and project finance to assist in the underwriting and servicing of Federal credit instruments.
 (e)Expedited ProcessingThe Assistant Secretary shall implement procedures and measures to economize the time and cost involved in obtaining approval and the issuance of credit assistance under the BIFIA program.
 (f)Assistance to Small ProjectsOf the amount appropriated under section 10(a), and after the set-aside for administrative expenses under section 10(b), not less than 20 percent shall be made available for the Assistant Secretary to use in lieu of fees collected under subsection (b) for small projects.
			8.State and local permits
 The provision of credit assistance under the BIFIA program with respect to a project shall not— (1)relieve any recipient of the assistance of any obligation to obtain any required State or local permit or approval with respect to the project;
 (2)limit the right of any unit of State or local government to approve or regulate any rate of return on private equity invested in the project; or
 (3)otherwise supersede any State or local law (including any regulation) applicable to the construction or operation of the project.
 9.RegulationsThe Assistant Secretary may promulgate such regulations as the Assistant Secretary determines to be appropriate to carry out the BIFIA program.
		10.Funding
 (a)Authorization of appropriationsThere are authorized to be appropriated to the Assistant Secretary to carry out this Act $5,000,000,000 for fiscal year 2018, to remain available until expended.
 (b)Administrative expensesOf the amount appropriated under subsection (a), the Assistant Secretary may use not more than 5 percent for the administration of the BIFIA program.
			11.Reports to Congress
 (a)In GeneralNot later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act, and every 2 years thereafter, the Assistant Secretary shall submit to Congress a report summarizing the financial performance of the projects that are receiving, or have received, assistance under the BIFIA program, including a recommendation as to whether the objectives of the BIFIA program are best served by—
 (1)continuing the program under the authority of the Assistant Secretary; or (2)establishing a Federal corporation or federally sponsored enterprise to administer the program.
				(b)Application Process Report
 (1)In generalNot later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, the Assistant Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report that includes a list of all of the letters of interest and applications received for assistance under the BIFIA program during the preceding fiscal year.
				(2)Inclusions
 (A)In generalEach report under paragraph (1) shall include, at a minimum, a description of, with respect to each letter of interest and application included in the report—
 (i)the date on which the letter of interest or application was received; (ii)the date on which a notification was provided to the applicant regarding whether the application was complete or incomplete;
 (iii)the date on which a revised and completed application was submitted (if applicable); (iv)the date on which a notification was provided to the applicant regarding whether the project was approved or disapproved; and
 (v)if the project was not approved, the reason for the disapproval. (B)CorrespondenceEach report under paragraph (1) shall include copies of any correspondence provided to the applicant in accordance with section 3(d).


I
111th CONGRESS 2d Session
H. R. 6248
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

September 29, 2010
Mr. Honda introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Education and Labor, and in addition to the Committee on Science 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 concerned

A BILL
To stimulate collaboration with respect to, and provide for coordination and coherence of, the Nation’s science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education initiatives.

1.Short titleThis Act may be cited as the Elevating Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Education Act of 2010.
2.DefinitionsIn this Act:
(1)The term agencies or agency means the following Federal agencies: Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Agriculture, Department of Commerce, Department of Defense, Department of Education, Department of Energy, Department of Health and Human Services, Department of Labor, Department of the Interior, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Science Foundation, the National Institutes of Health, and the National Institute of Standards and Technology, and other Federal agencies with STEM education programs.
(2)The term NSERR means the National STEM Education Resource Repository.
(3)The term OSTP means the Office of Science and Technology Policy in the Executive Office of the President.
(4)The term STEM means science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
3.Office of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Education within the Department of Education
(a)Assistant SecretarySection 202 of the Department of Education Organization Act (20 U.S.C. 3412) is amended in subsection (b)(1)—
(1)in subparagraph (E) by striking and at the end;
(2)by redesignating subparagraph (F) as (G); and
(3)by inserting after subparagraph (E) the following:

(F)an Assistant Secretary for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Education (who may be referred to as the Assistant Secretary for STEM Education); and .
(b)OfficeTitle II of the Department of Education Organization Act is amended by adding at the end the following:

221.Office of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Education
(a)In generalThere shall be in the Department of Education an Office of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Education (which may be referred to as the Office of STEM Education), to be administered by the Assistant Secretary for STEM Education appointed under section 202(b).
(b)ResponsibilitiesThe Assistant Secretary of STEM Education, acting through the Office, shall have the following responsibilities:
(1)Coordinating and overseeing all STEM education efforts within the Department.
(2)Preparing the annual budget for all STEM education programs within the Department.
(3)Managing the following programs: Math and Science Partnerships, Math Now, Math Skills for Secondary Students, Minority Science and Engineering Improvement, Teachers for a Competitive Tomorrow, Upward Bound Math-Science, and all other functions of the Department with a focus on STEM education, including where appropriate the National Science and Mathematics Access Retain Talent (SMART grants), the Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH grants), and the Academic Competitiveness grants.
(4)Consulting with other offices within the Department that have a STEM education focus, including those managing the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education grant programs.
(5)Representing the Department as a member of the National Science and Technology Council’s Committee on Science, Subcommittee on Education and Workforce Development, and serving as the principal interagency liaison for STEM education programs at the Department unless otherwise designated by the Assistant Secretary.
(6)Ensuring access to equal educational opportunity for every individual so as to increase, to the maximum extent possible, the participation and advancement of individuals identified in section 33 or 34 of the Science and Engineering Equal Opportunities Act (42 U.S.C. 1885a or 1885b) in the STEM disciplines.
(7)Promoting the development and implementation of quality, scientifically valid STEM teacher preparation and to provide technical assistance to support STEM learning.
(8)Providing support to institutions of higher education and other institutions and organizations with effective informal STEM education programs to improve teacher preparation and teacher professional development by ensuring emphasis on promising practices and exemplary programs in STEM education.
(9)Providing support to local education agencies or to mathematics and science partnerships involving local education agencies, to implement effective STEM education instruction and exemplary programs that employ promising practices.
(10)Consulting regularly with the State Consortium on STEM Education with regard to developing STEM education policy and providing technical support.
(11)Conducting a biennial symposium emphasizing engaging students in STEM disciplines that are identified in section 33 or 34 of the Science and Engineering Equal Opportunities Act (42 U.S.C. 1885a or 1885b) inviting stakeholders that include, but are not limited to—
(A)expert STEM teachers;
(B)State Consortium on STEM Education and additional States;
(C)business and industry partners;
(D)institutions of higher education;
(E)institutions and organizations with an informal STEM education focus; and
(F)Federal agencies with STEM education programs.
(12)Providing periodic public statements on the status of STEM education in the Nation.
(13)Informing the Secretary, policymakers, the professional societies of STEM teaching professionals and STEM practitioners about the effectiveness of STEM-related education research and programs operated within the Department.
(14)Sharing scientifically valid education research and promising practices and exemplary programs with the National STEM Education Resource Repository. .
(c)Evaluation and reportThe Assistant Secretary for STEM Education shall conduct an independent evaluation, through grant or by contract, of the STEM education programs administered by the Department, at least every 5 years, which shall include—
(1)conducting an assessment of STEM education activities within the Department by using the evaluations and reports of these programs to determine these programs’ impact on—
(A)the quantity of students seeking STEM degrees disaggregated by subject area and according to section 33 or 34 of the Science and Engineering Equal Opportunities Act (42 U.S.C. 1885a or 1885b);
(B)student academic achievement with consideration of problem solving, critical thinking, collaboration, and other higher order thinking skills;
(C)improving STEM teacher quality, quantity, and retention; and
(D)improving promising teaching practices that show evidence of fostering student innovation; and
(2)the preparation and submission of a report on the results of the evaluation described in paragraph (1) to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions and the Committee on Science of the Senate, the Committee on Education and Labor and the Committee on Science and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committees on Appropriations of the Senate and House of Representatives.
(d)Authorization of appropriationsThere are authorized to be appropriated $1,500,000 to carry out this section for fiscal year 2011 and such sums as may be necessary for each fiscal year thereafter.
4.State Consortium on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Education
(a)In generalFrom amounts made available to carry out this section, the Secretary of Education, acting through the Office of STEM Education, shall award a grant to establish one voluntary State Consortium on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Education (which may be referred to as the State Consortium on STEM Education).
(b)Peer review and selectionThe Secretary shall—
(1)establish a peer-review process to assist in the review and approval of the grant proposal under this section;
(2)appoint individuals to participate in the peer-review process who are educators and experts in identifying, evaluating, and implementing effective STEM education programs and practices, including areas of teaching and learning, educational standards and assessments, professional development, curriculum, increasing the participation of individuals identified in section 33 or 34 of the Science and Engineering Equal Opportunities Act (42 U.S.C. 10 1885a or 1885b), English language learners, and special education including recognized exemplary teachers and school administrators who have been recognized at the state or national level for exemplary work and/or contributions to the STEM education field;
(3)approve one grant from those submitted under this section not later than 120 days after the date of the submission unless the Secretary determines that the grant proposals submitted do not meet the requirements of this section;
(4)if only one grant proposal is submitted, not decline to approve the grant proposal before—
(A)offering the Consortium an opportunity to revise the Consortium proposal; and
(B)providing the Consortium with technical assistance in order to submit a successful application; and
(5)direct the Inspector General of the Department to review the process used for screening the individuals appointed to the peer-review process so as to avoid both financial conflicts of interest and non-financial interests that would impair objectivity in peer review, as well as the objectivity of process used in reviewing and awarding the grant under this section, and report the findings to Congress.
(c)Amount of grant
(1)In generalExcept as provided under paragraph (2), the grant awarded to the consortium under this section shall be not more than $20,000,000.
(2)Additional fundsFor each fiscal year of the grant period, the Secretary of Education shall award to the consortium awarded a grant under this section $1,750,000 for each additional State that is a member of the consortium beyond the minimum 5 States required under subsection (d).
(d)Eligibility requirementTo be eligible to receive a grant under this section, the consortium shall include at least 5 States considering the need to provide an equitable geographic representation of the United States, according to the regional divisions used by the Bureau of the Census.
(e)Use of grant fundsThe consortium shall use the grant funds awarded under this section for the following purposes:
(1)To establish the State Consortium on STEM Education.
(2)To convene an Interstate Council on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Education (which may be referred to as the Interstate Council on STEM Education) that includes a diverse group of individuals representing a variety of perspectives on STEM education, the STEM disciplines, business, curriculum, assessments, English language learners, and special education, including—
(A)representatives from States that shall include not less one State Governor, one Chief State School Officer, and one representative of a State educational agency or their designee;
(B)representatives from local educational agencies (LEAs) that shall include not less than one current school administrator, and three expert STEM educators that represent early childhood, elementary, middle, and secondary school perspectives;
(C)not less than 4 representatives from STEM education and the STEM fields at institutions of higher education that include community colleges, and public and private four-year institutions of higher education;
(D)not less than one representative from a STEM education professional organization, such as but not limited to the National Science Teachers Association, the National Council for Teachers of Mathematics, those representing engineering educators, career and technical education, and organizations that represent underrepresented communities in STEM; and
(E)not less than one representative from each of the following categories of relevant STEM related organizations: informal STEM education, business and industry, a STEM disciplinary or professional society, private or corporate foundations, youth-serving organizations, and other relevant organizations.
(3)To support at least one full-time staff member for each State.
(4)To share STEM education research, promising practices and exemplary programs, and programs through the NSERR.
(f)FunctionsThe State Consortium on STEM Education—
(1)shall establish small working groups comprised of members of the State Council on STEM Education and outside experts in appropriate fields consulting widely to address the functions outlined in this subsection;
(2)shall identify points of weakness and strength among State STEM education efforts, prioritize strategies for addressing problem areas, and communicate State needs to the STEM Education Committee within the OSTP and the Assistant Secretary for STEM Education;
(3)if the Secretary determines that significant work in the areas described in subparagraphs (A) and (B) is not already underway—
(A)shall develop rigorous common content standards in STEM education for grades prekindergarten through grade 12 reflecting common elements between disciplines with consideration of—
(i)established international standards and 21st Century Skills; and
(ii)the needs of English language learners and special education students;
(B)shall develop innovative STEM assessment practices that include a substantial proportion of extended constructed response items, such as performance-based measures, that measure higher order thinking skills and understanding, application and transferability knowledge, problem solving, analysis, and synthesis, and include administration through a variety of modalities, such as audio-visual and interactive technology;
(C)may establish and strengthen partnerships between two-year colleges and minority serving institutions and research institutions to provide STEM students at two-year colleges and minority serving institutions (MSIs) expanded degree possibilities and opportunities to access research facilities and mentors including but not limited to—
(i)conducting a needs assessment of how to enhance the flow of STEM students from two-year colleges and MSIs to research institutions; and
(ii)establishing articulation agreements that shall address pathways and credit transfers between the institutions; and
(D)may improve and align STEM preservice teacher training among the member States, including but not limited to developing common—
(i)STEM preservice teacher training degree programs;
(ii)STEM teacher credentials; and
(iii)alternative pathways to STEM teacher certification;
(4)if the Secretary determines that significant work in the areas described in subparagraphs (A) and (B) of paragraph (3) is already underway, shall carry out the activities described in subparagraphs (D) and (E) of such paragraph;
(5)shall develop and implement strategies to integrate STEM education into other subject areas, such as language arts, social studies, physical and health education, music and other performing arts, and environmental education;
(6)shall identify and utilize, to the maximum extent possible, the expertise and resources of educators, institutions of higher education, business and industry, and Federal agencies in the development and implementation of functions outlined in this subsection;
(7)shall develop strategies to increase the participation and success of individuals identified in section 33 or 34 of the Science and Engineering Equal Opportunities Act (42 U.S.C. 1885a or 1885b) in STEM fields with consideration of first generation students;
(8)shall issue periodic reports on the status of STEM education in the States;
(9)shall make STEM education research, promising practices and exemplary programs, and effective STEM programs widely available through the NSERR;
(10)may promote and develop curriculum tools and professional development for in-service teachers that foster innovation and inventiveness;
(11)may evaluate the impact that STEM education professional development organizations have on classroom instruction and student learning in member States;
(12)may provide technical support to States who are members of the Consortium to establish or strengthen existing P–16 and/or P–20 Councils and to align secondary school graduation requirements with the demands of 21st century postsecondary education endeavors and support P–16 education data systems established by States and in section 6401 of the America COMPETES Act (Public Law 110–69; 121 Stat. 668; 20 U.S.C. 9871), and serve as a resource center for the STEM Education efforts of P–16 and/or P–20 Councils;
(13)may develop STEM Career Awareness Programs in collaboration with school guidance counselors that reflect the projected STEM workforce needs of the 21st century that may include mentoring programs and STEM professional outreach; and
(14)may develop STEM-related workforce education and training programs to enhance the skills of workers to meet the needs of business and industry.
(g)Outside fundsThe State Consortium on STEM Education shall be permitted to accept and solicit outside funds.
(h)Evaluation and reportThe State Consortium on STEM Education shall conduct periodic independent evaluations, by grant or by contract, of the State Consortium on STEM Education’s effectiveness at accomplishing the functions outlined in subsection (f), which shall include—
(1)an assessment of the impact of such activities on STEM teaching and learning; and
(2)the preparation and submission of a report on the results of the evaluation described in paragraph (1) to the Assistant Secretary of STEM Education.
(i)Prohibitions
(1)In generalIn implementing this section, the Secretary may not—
(A)endorse, approve, or sanction any STEM curriculum designed for use in any school; or
(B)engage in oversight, technical assistance, or activities that will require the adoption of a specific STEM program or instructional materials by a State, local educational agency, or school.
5.STEM Education Resource Alliance
(a)In generalFrom amounts made available to carry out this section, the Secretary of Education, acting through the Office of STEM Education, shall make a grant to the National Science Digital Library to establish the STEM Education Resource Alliance. The STEM Education Resource Alliance shall be composed of representatives from each agency and industry stakeholders. The STEM Education Resource Alliance shall have 2 co-chairs selected by the members of the Alliance. The co-chairs shall serve for a 3-year term. No individual may serve as a co-chair for more than 1 consecutive term.
(b)Use of grant amountsThe National Science Digital Library shall use the grant funds to provide basic operational support to the STEM Education Resource Alliance, including maintenance, office space, equipment, personnel, and other operational costs.
(c)ResponsibilitiesThe STEM Education Resource Alliance shall have the following responsibilities:
(1)Coordinating and organizing—
(A)scientifically valid STEM education research;
(B)STEM education programs—
(i)that demonstrate promising practices; or
(ii)are exemplary, in terms of content or resources; and
(C)STEM education resources.
(2)Integrating existing STEM education collections, teacher professional development opportunities, and student programs available through the Federal Government, State initiatives, or national experts, including the Science Education Resource Center, Research from Institutions of Higher Education, Regional Education Centers (labs, comprehensive centers, and technical assistance centers), Applied Math and Science Repository, and Education Resources Information Center (ERIC).
(3)Working with industry to develop a uniform format for submissions to the NSERR, such as summaries, metadata, contact information for questions, examples of successful implementation, and other information necessary to develop applications that enhance learning and teaching.
(4)In collaboration with relevant STEM education experts, developing criteria for inclusion in the NSERR of resources, research, promising practices, and exemplary programs, including requirements relating to evaluation by experts at the principal originating agency.
(5)Publishing, not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the criteria developed under paragraph (4).
(6)Ensuring that STEM education resources, research, promising practices, and exemplary programs meeting the criteria developed under paragraph (4) are included in the NSERR (to be digitally housed at a location determined by the Chief Information Officer of the United States) and made widely available at no cost in a useful format.
(7)Working with the Office of Science and Technology Information at the Department of Energy to ensure “www.scienceeducation.gov” serves as the central portal to STEM education resources and promising practices across the Federal Government.
(8)Providing to the National Science Digital Library, not less than annually, updates of policies and procedures to accommodate the requirements of new and emerging technologies.
(d)Outside fundsThe STEM Education Resource Alliance shall be permitted to accept and solicit outside funds.
(e)Federal Advisory Committee Act not To applyThe Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App.) shall not apply to the STEM Education Resource Alliance.
(f)Authorization of appropriationsThere are authorized to be appropriated $1,500,000 to carry out this section for fiscal year 2011 and such sums as may be necessary for each fiscal year thereafter.


110 HR 4740 IH: To extend the temporary suspension of duty on 3-Dodecyl-1- (2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidinyl)-2,5-pyrrolidinedione.
U.S. House of Representatives
2007-12-17
text/xml
EN
Pursuant to Title 17 Section 105 of the United States Code, this file is not subject to copyright protection and is in the public domain.

I
110th CONGRESS 1st Session
H. R. 4740
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

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

A BILL
To extend the temporary suspension of duty on 3-Dodecyl-1- (2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidinyl)-2,5-pyrrolidinedione.

1.3-Dodecyl-1- (2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidinyl)-2,5-pyrrolidinedione
(a)In generalHeading 9902.04.12 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (relating to 3-Dodecyl-1- (2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidinyl)-2,5-pyrrolidinedione) is amended by striking the date in the effective period column and inserting 12/31/2011.
(b)Effective dateThe amendment made by subsection (a) applies to goods entered, or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, on or after the 15th day after the date of the enactment of this Act.


		II
		112th CONGRESS
		1st Session
		S. 296
		IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES

			February 7, 2011
			Ms. Klobuchar (for
			 herself and Mr. Casey) introduced the
			 following bill; which was read twice and referred to the
			 Committee on Health, Education, Labor,
			 and Pensions

		A BILL
		To amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to
		  provide the Food and Drug Administration with improved capacity to prevent drug
		  shortages.

		1.Short
			 titleThis Act may be cited as
			 the Preserving Access to Life-Saving
			 Medications Act.
		2.Drug
			 shortages
			(a)Expansion of
			 notification requirement regarding potential shortages of prescription
			 drugsSection 506C of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act
			 (21 U.S.C. 356c) is amended—
				(1)in the section
			 heading, by striking Discontinuance of a life saving product
			 and inserting Discontinuance
			 or interruption of the manufacture of a prescription
			 drug; and
				(2)by amending
			 subsection (a) to read as follows:

						(a)In general
							(1)DefinitionIn this section,
				the terms drug shortage and shortage, when used with
				respect to a drug, mean a period of time when the total supply of all versions
				of a drug available at the user level will not meet the current demand for the
				drug at the user level.
							(2)NotificationA manufacturer of a drug described in
				paragraph (3) shall notify the Secretary of a discontinuance, interruption, or
				other adjustment of the manufacture of the drug that would likely result in a
				shortage of such drug—
								(A)in the case of a discontinuance or planned
				interruption or adjustment, at least 6 months prior to the date of such
				discontinuance or planned interruption or adjustment; and
								(B)in the case of any other interruption or
				adjustment, as soon as practicable after becoming aware of such interruption or
				adjustment.
								(3)Drugs
				describedA drug described in
				this paragraph is a drug—
								(A)for which an
				application has been approved under section 505(b) or 505(j);
								(B)that is described
				in section 503(b)(1); and
								(C)that is not a
				product that was originally derived from human tissue and was replaced by a
				recombinant product.
								(4)Types of
				adjustmentsAn adjustment for which a manufacturer shall submit a
				notification under paragraph (2) includes—
								(A)adjustments
				related to the supply of raw materials, including active pharmaceutical
				ingredients;
								(B)adjustments to
				production capabilities;
								(C)business
				decisions that may affect the manufacture of the drug, such as mergers,
				discontinuations, and a change in production output; and
								(D)other adjustments
				as determined appropriate by the Secretary.
								(5)Modification of
				time framesThe Secretary may adjust the required time frame
				under paragraph (2) as determined appropriate by the Secretary based on—
								(A)the type of
				interruption or adjustment at issue; and
								(B)any other factor,
				as determined by the Secretary.
								(6)EnforcementNot
				later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this section, the Secretary
				shall promulgate regulations establishing a schedule of civil monetary
				penalties for failure to submit a notification as required under this
				subsection.
							.
				(b)Confidentiality
			 of informationSection 506C(c) of the Federal Food, Drug, and
			 Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 356c(c)) is amended to read as follows:

					(c)Confidentiality
				of informationThe Secretary shall ensure the confidentiality of
				proprietary information submitted in a notification under subsection
				(a).
					.
			(c)Public
			 notificationSection 506C of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic
			 Act (21 U.S.C. 356c) is amended by adding at the end the following:

					(d)Public
				notification
						(1)Notification of
				shortagesThe Secretary shall publish information on the types of
				adjustments for which a notification is required under subsection (a)(4) and on
				actual drug shortages on the Internet Web site of the Food and Drug
				Administration and, to the maximum extent practicable, distribute such
				information to appropriate health care provider and patient
				organizations.
						(2)Identification
				and notification of drugs vulnerable to drug shortage
							(A)In
				generalThe Secretary shall implement evidence-based criteria for
				identifying drugs that may be vulnerable to a drug shortage. Such criteria
				shall be based on—
								(i)the number of
				manufacturers of the drug;
								(ii)the sources of
				raw material or active pharmaceutical ingredients;
								(iii)the supply
				chain characteristics, such as production complexities; and
								(iv)the availability
				of therapeutic alternatives.
								(B)NotificationIf
				the Secretary determines using the criteria under subparagraph (A) that a drug
				may be vulnerable to a drug shortage, the Secretary shall notify the
				manufacturer of the drug of such determination and of the collaboration
				described under paragraph (3).
							(3)Continuity of
				operations plansThe Secretary shall collaborate with
				manufacturers of drugs identified pursuant to paragraph (2) to establish and
				improve continuity of operations plans with respect to medically necessary
				drugs, as defined by the Secretary, so that such plans include a process for
				addressing drug
				shortages.
						.
			3.Manufacturer
			 reviewSection 510(h) of the
			 Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 360(h)) is amended—
			(1)by striking
			 (h) and inserting (h)(1); and
			(2)by inserting at
			 the end the following:

					(2)(A)If an establishment
				registered with the Secretary pursuant to this section is subject to a
				reinspection due to failure to comply with a requirement of this Act, the
				Secretary shall conduct such reinspection not later than 90 days after the
				establishment certifies to the Secretary that the establishment has corrected
				the reason for such failure.
						(B)The Secretary shall prioritize
				reinspections described in subparagraph (A) based on whether the establishment
				involved manufactures, propagates, compounds, or processes a drug involved in a
				drug shortage (as defined in section
				506C).
						.
			4.Reports to
			 CongressNot later than 1 year
			 after the date of enactment of this Act, and on an annual basis thereafter, the
			 Secretary of Health and Human Services shall submit to Congress a report that
			 describes the actions taken by such Secretary during the previous 1-year period
			 to address drug shortages through all aspects of the prescription drug supply
			 chain.