Latest Action: 05/02/2008 - Passed Senate without amendment by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S3749)

Bill Text
To make technical corrections regarding the Newborn Screening Saves Lives Act of 2007.
S.RES.524 Sponsored by John F. Kerry
Latest Action: 04/28/2008 - Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship discharged by Unanimous Consent.

Bill Text
A resolution honoring the entrepreneurial spirit of the owners of small business concerns in the United States during National Small Business Week, beginning April 21, 2008.
S.2889 Sponsored by Daniel K. Akaka
Latest Action: 04/17/2008 - Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S3160, S3161)

Bill Text
A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve veterans' health care benefits, and for other purposes.
S.2787 Sponsored by Carl Levin
Latest Action: 03/31/2008 - Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S2234)

Bill Text
A bill to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2009 for military activities of the Department of Defense, to prescribe military personnel strengths for fiscal year 2009, and for other purposes.
Latest Action: 04/24/2008 - Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship.

Bill Text
To amend the Small Business Act to improve the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program and the Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) program, and for other purposes. 4/18/2008--Reported to House amended.    (There is 1 other summary) SBIR/STTR Reauthorization Act - Title I: Modernizing the SBIR and STTR Programs - (Sec. 101) Amends the Small Business Act to extend through FY2010 (currently scheduled to expire at the end of FY2008) the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs of the Small Business Administration (SBA). (Sec. 102) Increases, for FY2009 and thereafter, from: (1) 2.5% to 3.0% of participating federal agencies' extramural research budget the set-aside for SBIR program activities; and (2) 0.3% to 0.6% of such budget the set-aside for STTR program activities. (Sec. 103) Increases, for both the SBIR and STTR programs, the individual small business award [...]

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Latest Action: 04/15/2008 - Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S3028-3029)

Bill Text
A bill to establish the Social Work Reinvestment Commission to provide independent counsel to Congress and the Secretary of Health and Human Services on policy issues associated with recruitment, retention, research, and reinvestment in the profession of social work, and for other purposes. 4/15/2008--Introduced. Dorothy I. Height and Whitney M. Young, Jr. Social Work Reinvestment Act - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish the Social Work Reinvestment Commission to provide independent counsel to Congress on policy issues associated with the recruitment, retension, research, and reinvestment in the profession of social work.Directs the Commission to study and report to Congress on issues facing the social work profession, including: (1) fair market compensation, high social work educational debt, social work workforce trends, knowledge development, and social work safety; and (2) state-level social work licensure policies and reciprocity agreements [...]

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S.RES.510 Sponsored by Patty Murray
Latest Action: 04/24/2008 - Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions discharged by Unanimous Consent.

Bill Text
A resolution supporting the goals and ideals of National Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month.

4/10/2008--Introduced.

Honors the goals and ideals of National Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month. Encourages early diagnosis and access to quality care for people with cystic fibrosis. Expresses support for research to find a cure by fostering an enhanced research program through a strong federal commitment and expanded public-private partnerships.

Latest Action: 04/09/2008 - Referred to the House Committee on Education and Labor.

Bill Text
To amend the Higher Education Act of 1965 to require institutions of higher education to disclose their emergency response and evacuation procedures.

4/9/2008--Introduced.

Virginia Tech Victims Campus Emergency Response Policy and Notification Act - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to require schools participating in title IV student assistance programs to include current campus policies regarding immediate emergency response and evacuation procedures in their required annual security reports to current and prospective students and staff.

Requires such procedures to include: (1) notifying students and staff within 30 minutes after confirmation that an emergency exists on campus or public property; and (2) testing such procedures annually.

H.R.5715 Sponsored by George Miller
Latest Action: 05/01/2008 - Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

Bill Text
To ensure continued availability of access to the Federal student loan program for students and families. 4/17/2008--Passed House amended.    (There are 2 other summaries) Ensuring Continued Access to Student Loans Act of 2008 - (Sec. 2) Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to increase, by $2,000, the maximum annual unsubsidized Stafford loan amounts that may be provided to undergraduate students under the Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) program. Sets the aggregate limit on such loans at $31,000 for dependent undergraduates and $57,500 for independent undergraduates. (Sec. 3) Gives parent borrowers of PLUS FFELs the option to defer loan principal repayment for up to six months after the students for whom such loans are borrowed cease to carry at least one-half the normal full-time academic workload. (Sec. 4) Authorizes lenders, for loans made from July 2008 through June 2009, to determine that borrowers of PLUS FFELs, who are no more [...]

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S.2799 Sponsored by Patty Murray
Latest Action: 04/02/2008 - Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.

Bill Text
A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to expand and improve health care services available to women veterans, especially those serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, from the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.
Latest Action: 04/16/2008 - Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

Bill Text
To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to conform return preparer penalty standards, delay implementation of withholding taxes on government contractors, enhance taxpayer protections, assist low-income taxpayers, and for other purposes. 4/15/2008--Passed House amended.    (There are 2 other summaries) Taxpayer Assistance and Simplification Act of 2008 - (Sec. 2) Amends the Internal Revenue Code to modify the standards for imposing penalties on tax return preparers for understatements of tax to require: (1) substantial authority for a position with respect to an item on a tax return if such position was not disclosed with the return; and (2) a reasonable basis for a position that was disclosed with the return. Requires tax return preparers to have a reasonable belief that a position with respect to a tax shelter or a reportable transaction (a transaction having a potential for tax avoidance or evasion) will more likely than not be sustained on [...]

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Latest Action: 04/15/2008 - Considered under suspension of the rules. (consideration: CR H2298)

Bill Text
Permitting active duty members of the Armed Forces who are assigned to a Congressional liaison office of the Armed Forces at the House of Representatives to obtain membership in the exercise facility established for employees of the House of Representatives.

4/15/2008--Passed House amended.    (There are 2 other summaries)

(This measure has not been amended since it was reported to the House on April 14, 2007. The summary of that version is repeated here.)

Permits any active duty member of the Armed Forces who is assigned to a congressional liaison office of the Armed Forces at the House of Representatives to obtain membership in the exercise facility established for House employees in the same manner as such individuals and in accordance with such regulations as the Committee on House Administration may promulgate.

Latest Action: 03/13/2008 - Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance. (text of measure as introduced: CR 3/14/2008 S2163)

Bill Text
A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services within the Department of Health and Human Services relating to optional State plan case management services under the Medicaid program.

3/13/2008--Introduced.

Disapproves the rule submitted by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services within the Department of Health and Human Services relating to optional state plan case management services under the Medicaid program. Declares that such rule shall have no force or effect.

Latest Action: 04/28/2008 - Read the second time. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 719.

Bill Text
To extend certain moratoria and impose additional moratoria on certain Medicaid regulations through April 1, 2009, and for other purposes. 4/23/2008--Passed House amended.    (There are 2 other summaries) (This measure has not been amended since it was reported to the House on April 22, 2008. The summary of that version is repeated here.) Protecting the Medicaid Safety Net Act of 2008 - (Sec. 2) Amends the U.S. Troop Readiness, Veterans' Care, Katrina Recovery, and Iraq Accountability Appropriations Appropriations Act, 2007 to extend until April 1, 2009, the moratorium on implementation of a proposed rule ("Medicaid Program; Cost Limit for Providers Operated by Units of Government and Provisions To Ensure the Integrity of Federal-State Financial Partnership") relating to the federal-state financial partnerships under titles XIX (Medicaid) and XXI (State Children's Health Insurance Program) (SCHIP) of the Social Security Act (SSA).[...]

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H.J.RES.79 Sponsored by Jay Inslee
Latest Action: 03/13/2008 - Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.

Bill Text
Disapproving the rule submitted by the Federal Communications Commission with respect to broadcast media ownership.

3/13/2008--Introduced.

Disapproves the rule submitted by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and received by Congress on February 22, 2008, relating to broadcast media ownership.

Latest Action: 03/13/2008 - Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.

Bill Text
Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services within the Department of Health and Human Services relating to optional State plan case management services under the Medicaid Program.

3/13/2008--Introduced.

Disapproves the rule submitted by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services within the Department of Health and Human Services relating to optional state plan case management services under the Medicaid program. Declares that such rule shall have no force or effect.

S.2742 Sponsored by Thad Cochran
Latest Action: 03/11/2008 - Read twice and referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.

Bill Text
A bill to reduce the incidence, progression, and impact of diabetes and its complications and establish the position of National Diabetes Coordinator. 3/11/2008--Introduced. National Diabetes Coordinator Act of 2008 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to establish within the Office of the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) the position of National Diabetes Coordinator, whose duties shall be to: (1) serve as the Secretary's principal advisor on reducing the rates of diabetes and its complications; (2) develop a measurement for the incidence of diabetes; (3) develop and coordinate implementation of a national strategy to reduce the incidence, progression, and impact of diabetes and its complications; (4) provide leadership and coordination to ensure that diabetes-related programs and policies of HHS are coordinated internally and with those of relevant federal, state, and local agencies with a goal of avoiding duplication of effort, maximizing [...]

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Latest Action: 03/11/2008 - Star Print ordered on the bill.

Bill Text
A bill to aid families and neighborhoods facing home foreclosure and address the subprime mortgage crisis. 3/7/2008--Introduced. Security Against Foreclosures and Education Act, or the SAFE Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow proceeds of qualified mortgage bonds to be used to refinance certain residential subprime loans. Requires the Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation to continue to award expeditiously certain funds already provided for mortgage foreclosure counseling. Amends the Code to allow purchasers of certain single-family principal residences a one-time tax credit. Amends the Truth in Lending Act to: (1) revise creditor mortgage loan disclosure requirements; and (2) increase civil damages for noncompliance with such Act. Amends the Code to: (1) allow a five-year carryback of net operating losses for certain taxable years; and (2) suspend through taxable year 2009 the 90% of alternative minimum taxable income limit for certain [...]

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Latest Action: 04/15/2008 - Committee on Foreign Relations. Reported by Senator Biden with an amendment in the nature of a substitute. With written report No. 110-325. Minority views filed.

Bill Text
A bill to authorize appropriations for fiscal years 2009 through 2013 to provide assistance to foreign countries to combat HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria, and for other purposes. 3/7/2008--Introduced. Tom Lantos and Henry J. Hyde United States Global Leadership Against HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria Reauthorization Act of 2008 - Amends the United States Leadership Against HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria Act of 2003 to revise the provisions of the President's comprehensive five-year global strategy to combat HIV/AIDS. Amends the State Department Basic Authorities Act of 1956 to provide for the establishment of an interagency working group on HIV/AIDS headed by the Global AIDS Coordinator and comprised of representatives from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Extends funding for: (1) the Global Fund to fight AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria; (2) the Vaccine Fund; (3) [...]

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Latest Action: 04/10/2008 - Considered as unfinished business.

Bill Text
Recognizing the fifth anniversary of the Department of Homeland Security and honoring the Department's employees for their extraordinary efforts and contributions to protect and secure our Nation.

4/10/2008--Passed House without amendment.    (There is 1 other summary)

(This measure has not been amended since it was introduced. The summary of that version is repeated here.)

Recognizes the fifth anniversary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Honors DHS's dedicated public servants for their extraordinary service in helping preserve the safety and security of the American people.

H.R.5570 Sponsored by Zoe Lofgren
Latest Action: 04/16/2008 - Received in the Senate.

Bill Text
To amend the Immigration and Nationality Act with respect to the special immigrant nonminister religious worker program, and for other purposes.
Latest Action: 03/14/2008 - S.AMDT.4380 Amendment SA 4380 agreed to in Senate by Yea-Nay Vote. 41 - 57. Record Vote Number: 79.

Bill Text
An original concurrent resolution setting forth the congressional budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2009 and including the appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 2008 and 2010 through 2013. 3/14/2008--Passed Senate amended.    (There are 2 other summaries) Sets forth the congressional budget for the federal government for FY2009, including the appropriate budgetary levels for FY2008 and FY2010-FY2013. Title I: Recommended Levels and Amounts - (Sec. 101) Lists recommended budgetary levels and amounts, for FY2008-FY2013, with respect to: (1) federal revenues; (2) new budget authority; (3) budget outlays; (4) deficits; (5) public debt; and (6) debt held by the public. (Sec. 102) Lists the appropriate levels of new budget authority, outlays, and administrative expenses for Social Security, U.S. Postal Service discretionary administrative expenses, and specified major functional categories for FY2008-FY2013.[...]

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Latest Action: 03/12/2008 - Considered as unfinished business. (consideration: CR H1560-1561)

Bill Text
To reauthorize and reform the national service laws. 3/10/2008--Introduced. Generations Invigorating Volunteerism and Education Act, or the GIVE Act - Amends the National and Community Service Act of 1990 (NSCA) and the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973 (DVSA) to revise the programs under such Acts and reauthorize appropriations for such programs through FY2012. Revises under NSCA: (1) the School-Based and Community-Based Service-Learning programs and Higher Education Innovative Programs for Community Service (Learn and Serve programs); (2) National Service Trust programs (AmeriCorps); (3) the National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC); and (4) the Investment for Quality and Innovation program. Eliminates the current Community-Based Learn and Serve programs. Establishes a new Learn and Serve program, Innovative Service-Learning Programs and Research, providing matching grants to: (1) provide community service-learning opportunities to elementary and [...]

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Latest Action: 04/24/2008 - Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. Ordered to be reported without amendment favorably.

Bill Text
A joint resolution disapproving the rule submitted by the Federal Communications Commission with respect to broadcast media ownership.

3/5/2008--Introduced.

Disapproves the rule submitted by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and received by Congress on February 22, 2008, relating to broadcast media ownership.

Latest Action: 03/04/2008 - Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S1546-1547; text as passed Senate: CR S1547; text of measure as introduced: CR S1531)

Bill Text
A resolution commending the employees of the Department of Homeland Security, their partners at all levels of government, and the millions of law enforcement, fire service, and emergency medical services personnel, emergency managers,and other emergency response providers nationwide for their dedicated service in protecting the people of the United States and the Nation from acts of terrorism, natural disasters, and other large-scale emergencies. 3/4/2008--Passed Senate without amendment.    (There is 1 other summary) (This measure has not been amended since it was introduced. The summary of that version is repeated here.)Commends the public servants of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), on the fifth anniversary of DHS's establishment, for their contributions to the nation's security. Salutes the efforts of government officials and private individuals to enhance the nation's ability to prepare for and respond to terrorism, [...]

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H.R.5522 Sponsored by George Miller
Latest Action: 05/01/2008 - Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.

Bill Text
To require the Secretary of Labor to issue interim and final occupational safety and health standards regarding worker exposure to combustible dust, and for other purposes. 4/30/2008--Passed House amended.    (There are 2 other summaries) Worker Protection Against Combustible Dust Explosions and Fires Act of 2008 - (Sec. 3) Requires the Secretary of Labor, within 90 days, to promulgate an interim final standard regulating combustible dusts, which shall apply to manufacturing, processing, blending, conveying, repackaging, and handling of combustible particulate solids and their dusts (including organic dusts, plastics, sulfur, wood, rubber, furniture, textiles, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, fibers, dyes, coal, metals, and fossil fuels), but shall not apply to processes already covered by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) standard on grain facilities.Requires such standard to provide requirements for: (1) a hazard assessment [...]

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Latest Action: 03/03/2008 - Referred to the House Committee on Financial Services.

Bill Text
To advance credit union efforts to promote economic growth, modify credit union regulatory standards and reduce burdens, and for other purposes. 3/3/2008--Introduced. Credit Union Regulatory Relief Act of 2008 - Amends the Federal Credit Union Act to: (1) permit a credit union to invest in securities for its own account, subject to certain percentage limitations; and (2) increase the investment and lending limit in credit union service organizations from 1% to 3% of a credit union's total paid and unimpaired capital and surplus. Excludes credit union loans to nonprofit religious organizations from limitations placed upon member business loans. Redefines member business loan to increase specified extensions of credit.Authorizes the National Credit Union Administration Board (Board) to establish longer loan maturity dates.Directs the Board to prescribe criteria for continued membership of certain member groups in the case of certain credit union conversions [...]

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Latest Action: 03/11/2008 - Subcommittee Hearings Held.

Bill Text
To authorize the Secretary of the Treasury to prescribe the weights and the compositions of circulating coins, and for other purposes. 2/28/2008--Introduced. Coin Modernization and Taxpayer Savings Act of 2008 - Revises the discretionary authority of the Secretary of the Treasury to prescribe the weight and the composition of the alloy in the one-cent coin. Extends such authority to, and requires the Secretary to prescribe the weight and composition of, the dollar, half-dollar, quarter-dollar, dime, and five-cent coin, as well as the one-cent coin. Requires the coins to be coined, minted, and their materials fabricated in the United States. Requires the Secretary to enter into a formal rulemaking process when making any determination with respect to any change in the weight and composition of any coin. Repeals current weight requirements for the half-dollar, quarter-dollar, dime, five-cent coin, and the one-cent coin.Specifies the characteristics [...]

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Latest Action: 02/27/2008 - Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, 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

Bill Text
To require the safe, complete, and fully-funded redeployment of United States Armed Forces and contractor security forces from Iraq and to prohibit the establishment of any enduring or permanent United States military bases in Iraq, and for other purposes. 2/27/2008--Introduced. Fully-Funded United States Military Redeployment and Sovereignty of Iraq Restoration Act of 2008 - States that it is the policy of the United States to: (1) commence the safe and orderly redeployment of U.S. troops and military contractors from Iraq; (2) pursue security and stability in Iraq through diplomacy; (3) help preserve the territorial integrity of Iraq and establish a democratic central government there; (4) account for missing U.S. personnel and citizens in Iraq; and (5) turn over all internal security activities and military operations in Iraq to its elected government within one year after the enactment of this Act. Repeals the Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Iraq [...]

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H.R.5488 Sponsored by Maxine Waters
Latest Action: 02/26/2008 - Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.

Bill Text
To provide for the recovery and stability of Iraq, and for other purposes.

2/26/2008--Introduced.

Recovery and Stability of Iraq Act of 2008 - Establishes within the Executive Office of the President the position of Iraqi Displacement Coordinator who shall identify programs that address the humanitarian needs of displaced Iraqis and who shall review, advise, support, and coordinate with the heads of appropriate U.S. departments and agencies, the government of Iraq, countries hosting displaced Iraqis in the region, the United Nations, and other involved nongovernmental and international organizations.

Directs the Coordinator to: (1) design a comprehensive strategy to address the needs of displaced Iraqis; and (2) encourage the government of Iraq to develop a long-term plan for the voluntary and safe return of displaced Iraqis to their homes.

H.R.5447 Sponsored by Edolphus Towns
Latest Action: 02/14/2008 - Referred to the House Committee on Education and Labor.

Bill Text
To establish the Social Work Reinvestment Commission to provide independent counsel to Congress on policy issues associated with the recruitment, retention, research, and reinvestment in the profession of social work. 2/14/2008--Introduced. Dorothy I. Height and Whitney M. Young, Jr. Social Work Reinvestment Act - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish the Social Work Reinvestment Commission to provide independent counsel to Congress on policy issues associated with the recruitment, retension, research, and reinvestment in the profession of social work. Directs the Commission to study and report to Congress on issues facing the social work profession, including: (1) fair market compensation, high social work educational debt, social work workforce trends, knowledge development, and social work safety; and (2) state-level social work licensure and reciprocity agreements for providing services across state lines. Authorizes the Secretary [...]

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Latest Action: 02/15/2008 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

Bill Text
To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the disability compensation evaluation procedure of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder, to improve the diagnosis and treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.
Latest Action: 02/14/2008 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

Bill Text
Supporting the goals and ideals of National Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month.

2/14/2008--Introduced.

Honors the goals and ideals of National Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month. Encourages early diagnosis and access to high-quality care for people with cystic fibrosis. Expresses support for research to find a cure by fostering an enhanced research program through a strong federal commitment and expanded public-private partnerships.

H.R.5179 Sponsored by Rush D. Holt
Latest Action: 04/17/2008 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education.

Bill Text
To establish in the Department of Education an Assistant Secretary for International and Foreign Language Education and an Office of International and Foreign Language Education.

1/29/2008--Introduced.

International Education Leadership Act of 2008 - Amends the Department of Education Organization Act to establish, in the Department of Education, an Office of International and Foreign Language Education, headed by an Assistant Secretary for International and Foreign Language Education with extensive experience in international and foreign language instruction.

Makes the Assistant Secretary responsible for: (1) promoting the study of foreign languages and cultures at the elementary, secondary, and postsecondary levels; (2) administering the Department's programs on international and foreign language education and research, and its activities in international affairs; and (3) coordinating such programs with other related federal programs.

S.2569 Sponsored by Barbara Boxer
Latest Action: 01/29/2008 - Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S448)

Bill Text
A bill to amend the Public Health Service Act to authorize the Director of the National Cancer Institute to make grants for the discovery and validation of biomarkers for use in risk stratification for, and the early detection and screening of, ovarian cancer. 1/29/2008--Introduced. Ovarian Cancer Biomarker Research Act of 2008 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Director of the National Cancer Institute to enter into cooperative agreements with, or make grants to, public or nonprofit entities to establish and operate centers to conduct research on biomarkers for use in risk stratification for, and the early detection and screening of, ovarian cancer. Designates each center as an Ovarian Cancer Biomarker Center of Excellence.Allows federal payments under such an agreement or grant to be used for research on: (1) the development and characterization of new biomarkers and the refinement of existing biomarkers; (2) the clinical and laboratory validation [...]

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Latest Action: 01/29/2008 - Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S447-448)

Bill Text
A bill to establish an awards mechanism to honor exceptional acts of bravery in the line of duty by Federal law enforcement officers.

1/29/2008--Introduced.

Federal Law Enforcement Congressional Badge of Bravery Act of 2007 [sic]- Authorizes the Attorney General to award a Congressional Badge of Bravery to a federal law enforcement officer who performs an act of bravery while in the line of duty. Sets forth requirements for agencies in nominating a law enforcement officer for a Badge.

Establishes within the Department of Justice: (1) a Congressional Badge of Bravery Board to made recommendations for awarding a Badge; and (2) a Congressional Badge of Bravery Office to assist the Board.

Authorizes Members of Congress or the Attorney General to make the presentations of Badges to law enforcement officers.

Latest Action: 02/07/2008 - Received in the Senate and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.

Bill Text
Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the United States Explorer I satellite, the world's first scientific spacecraft, and the birth of the United States space exploration program. 2/6/2008--Passed House without amendment.    (There is 1 other summary) (This measure has not been amended since it was introduced. The summary of that version is repeated here.)Celebrates the achievement of the late Dr. James A. Van Allen and his science team and all of the individuals at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory and Army Ballistic Missile Agency who, through the successful launch of Explorer I, brought the United States into the space age and science into the realm of space.Supports science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education programs, which are critical for preparing the next generation to lead future U.S. space endeavors.Recognizes the role of the U.S. space program in strengthening the scientific and engineering foundation [...]

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H.R.5128 Sponsored by Barbara Lee
Latest Action: 02/13/2008 - Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR H926)

Bill Text
Disapproving of any formal agreement emerging from the "Declaration of Principles for a Long-Term Relationship of Cooperation and Friendship Between the Republic of Iraq and the United States of America" unless the agreement is approved through an Act of Congress. 1/23/2008--Introduced. States that any formal agreement emerging from the "Declaration of Principles for a Long-term Relationship of Cooperation and Friendship Between the Republic of Iraq and the United States of America" shall not have the effect of force of law unless the agreement is approved by Congress after the date of enactment of this Act. Expresses the sense of Congress that any formal agreement emerging from such Declaration must be approved by the Iraqi legislature. Prohibits funds appropriated or otherwise made available to the Department of Defense (DOD) or any other U.S. department or agency from being used to enforce or implement any formal agreement emerging from such Declaration [...]

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H.R.4986 Sponsored by Ike Skelton
Latest Action: 01/28/2008 - Signed by President.

Bill Text
To provide for the enactment of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008, as previously enrolled, with certain modifications to address the foreign sovereign immunities provisions of title 28, United States Code, with respect to the attachment of property in certain judgements against Iraq, the lapse of statutory authorities for the payment of bonuses, special pays, and similar benefits for members of the uniformed services, and for other purposes. 1/28/2008--Public Law.    (There are 2 other summaries) (This measure has not been amended since it was passed by the House on January 16, 2008. The summary of that version is repeated here.) National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008 - Division A: Department of Defense Authorizations - Title I: Procurement - Subtitle A: Authorization of Appropriations - (Sec. 101) Authorizes appropriations for FY2008 for the Army, Navy and Marine Corps, and Air Force for [...]

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S.2532 Sponsored by Max Baucus
Latest Action: 01/08/2008 - Committee on Finance. Original measure reported to Senate by Senator Baucus under authority of the order of the Senate of 12/19/2007. With written report No. 110-255.

Bill Text
An original bill to amend titles XVIII, XIX, and XXI of the Social Security Act to improve health care provided to Indians under the Medicare, Medicaid, and State Children's Health Insurance Programs, and for other purposes. 1/8/2008--Reported to Senate without amendment.    (There is 1 other summary) (This measure has not been amended since it was introduced. The summary has been expanded because action occurred on the measure.)Medicare, Medicaid, and SCHIP Indian Health Care Improvement Act of 2007 - (Sec. 2) Amends titles XVIII (Medicare), XIX (Medicaid), and XXI (State Children's Health Insurance) (SCHIP) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to extend the eligibility of the Indian Health Service (IHS) for payments under such programs to Indian Tribes, Tribal Organizations, and Urban Indian Organizations (Indian health programs).(Sec. 3) Amends SSA title XI to: (1) eliminate the National Commission on Children; and (2) require the Secretary [...]

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S.2526 Sponsored by Robert Menendez
Latest Action: 12/19/2007 - Read twice and referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.

Bill Text
A bill to protect health care workers and first responders, including police, fire-fighters, emergency medical personnel, and other workers at risk of workplace exposure to infectious agents and drug resistant infections, such as MRSA and pandemic influenza. 12/19/2007--Introduced. Worker Infection Protection Act - Directs the Secretaries of Labor and of Health and Human Services (HHS) to jointly develop and issue workplace standards, recommendations, and plans to protect health care workers and first responders and other workers at risk of workplace exposure to infectious agents and drug resistant infections, such as Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and pandemic influenza.Directs the Secretary of Labor to develop and issue an emergency temporary standard and, not later than six months after such issuance, a permanent standard for the protection of workers at risk of exposure, to prevent occupational exposure to infectious agents and toxins, such as [...]

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Latest Action: 04/04/2008 - Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs.

Bill Text
To reauthorize the United States Fire Administration, and for other purposes. 4/3/2008--Passed House amended.    (There are 2 other summaries) United States Fire Administration Reauthorization Act of 2008 - (Sec. 3) Amends the Federal Fire Prevention and Control Act of 1974 to authorize appropriations for the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) for FY2009-FY2012. (Sec. 4) Authorizes the Superintendent of the National Academy for Fire Prevention and Control to include within fire service personnel training: (1) response, tactics, and strategies for dealing with non-terrorist-caused national catastrophes and incidents that involve weapons of mass destruction; (2) applying new technology and developing strategies and tactics for fighting wildfires; (3) response, tactics, and strategies for fighting large-scale or multiple fires in a general area that cross jurisdictional boundaries, fires occurring at the wildland-urban interface, and fires involving [...]

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Latest Action: 01/28/2008 - Received in the House.

Bill Text
A concurrent resolution expressing the sense of the Congress regarding the need for additional research into the chronic neurological condition hydrocephalus, and for other purposes. 1/22/2008--Passed Senate without amendment.    (There is 1 other summary) (This measure has not been amended since it was introduced. The summary of that version is repeated here.)Commends the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) for working with leading scientists and researchers to organize the first-ever NIH conference on hydrocephalus (a neurological condition characterized by the abnormal buildup of cerebrospinal fluids in the ventricles of the brain). Urges the Director to continue the current collaboration with respect to hydrocephalus among national research institutes.Calls for: (1) further research into the epidemiology, pathophysiology, disease burden, and improved treatment of hydrocephalus; and (2) increased public awareness [...]

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H.R.4836 Sponsored by Jay Inslee
Latest Action: 04/25/2008 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Department Operations, Oversight, Nutrition and Forestry.

Bill Text
To reduce the incidence, progression, and impact of diabetes and its complications and establish the position of National Diabetes Coordinator. 12/18/2007--Introduced. National Diabetes Coordinator Act of 2008 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to establish within the Office of the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) the position of National Diabetes Coordinator, whose duties shall be to: (1) serve as the Secretary's principal advisor on reducing the rates of diabetes and its complications; (2) develop a measurement for the incidence of diabetes; (3) develop and coordinate implementation of a national strategy to reduce the incidence, progression, and impact of diabetes and its complications; (4) provide leadership and coordination to ensure that diabetes-related programs and policies of HHS are coordinated internally and with those of relevant federal, state, and local agencies with a goal of avoiding duplication of effort, maximizing impact,[...]

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S.2510 Sponsored by Mary L. Landrieu
Latest Action: 12/18/2007 - Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S15920)

Bill Text
A bill to amend the Public Health Service Act to provide revised standards for quality assurance in screening and evaluation of gynecologic cytology preparations, and for other purposes. 12/18/2007--Introduced. Cytology Proficiency Improvement Act of 2007 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to revise national quality assurance standards to assure consistent performance by laboratories of valid and reliable cytology services, to include requirements that each clinical laboratory: (1) ensure that all individuals involved in screening and interpreting cytological preparations participate annually in an approved continuing medical education program in gynecologic cytology that provides each participant with gynecologic cytological preparations designed to improve locator, recognition, and interpretive skills; (2) maintain a record of program results; (3) require the laboratory director to consider such results and other [...]

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Latest Action: 03/12/2008 - Received in the House.

Bill Text
A bill to assist members of the Armed Forces in obtaining United States citizenship, and for other purposes. 3/11/2008--Passed Senate amended.    (There is 1 other summary) Kendell Frederick Citizenship Assistance Act - (Sec. 2) Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security (Secretary) to use the fingerprints provided by an individual at the time of military enlistment or at the time of applying for (immigration) status adjustment to satisfy any naturalization background or security requirements if: (1) the individual may be naturalized under the Immigration and Nationality Act, was fingerprinted in accordance with Department of Defense (DOD) requirements, and submits a naturalization application within 24 months of enlistment or provides the required biometric information at the time of application for status adjustment if filed within 24 months after enlistment; and (2) the Secretary determines that the biometric information provided, including fingerprints,[...]

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H.R.4749 Sponsored by Peter T. King
Latest Action: 05/01/2008 - Subcommittee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held.

Bill Text
To amend the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to establish the Office for Bombing Prevention, to address terrorist explosive threats, and for other purposes. 12/17/2007--Introduced. National Bombing Prevention Act of 2007 - Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to establish an Office for Bombing Prevention within the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) Protective Security Coordination Division of the Office of Infrastructure Protection. Assigns the Office primary responsibility for enhancing the ability and coordinating the efforts of the nation to deter, detect, prevent, protect against, and respond to terrorist explosive attacks in the United States.Directs the Secretary to develop and periodically update a national strategy to prevent and prepare for terrorist explosive attacks in the United States.Directs the Secretary, acting through the Under Secretary for Science and Technology, to: (1) ensure coordination [...]

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S.2492 Sponsored by Mark L. Pryor
Latest Action: 12/17/2007 - Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

Bill Text
A bill to provide for improved oversight of and accountability for military housing privatization initiative projects. 12/17/2007--Introduced. Military Housing Privatization Initiatives Projects Oversight and Accountability Act of 2007 - Requires each military housing privatization initiative project to be carried out under a guaranteed maximum price contract (to be reviewed by an independent third party) and accompanied by a performance schedule. Requires each Secretary concerned to prescribe regulations for effective oversight and management of projects under the Secretary's jurisdiction.Establishes requirements for: (1) combining projects in the event of termination of a lease or foreclosure on a project; (2) funding reserves; (3) sequestration and release of funds to be paid under a contract; (4) community meetings to convey project information; (5) certification of construction experience; (6) bonding levels; and (7) communication, review, and the effect of unsatisfactory [...]

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S.2488 Sponsored by Patrick J. Leahy
Latest Action: 12/31/2007 - Became Public Law No: 110-175.

Bill Text
A bill to promote accessibility, accountability, and openness in Government by strengthening section 552 of title 5, United States Code (commonly referred to as the Freedom of Information Act), and for other purposes. 12/31/2007--Public Law.    (There are 3 other summaries) (This measure has not been amended since it was introduced. The expanded summary of the Senate passed version is repeated here.) Openness Promotes Effectiveness in our National Government Act of 2007 or the OPEN Government Act of 2007 - Amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to revise requirements for federal agency disclosures of information requested under that Act. (Sec. 3) Provides definitions of "representative of the news media" and "news" for purposes of request processing fees. Regards a freelance journalist as working for a news-media entity if the journalist can demonstrate a solid basis for expecting publication through that [...]

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S.2484 Sponsored by Orrin G. Hatch
Latest Action: 12/21/2007 - Signed by President.

Bill Text
A bill to rename the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development as the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.

12/21/2007--Public Law.    (There are 2 other summaries)

(This measure has not been amended since it was introduced. The summary of that version is repeated here.)

Amends the Public Health Service Act to rename the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development as the "Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development."

Latest Action: 02/05/2008 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education.

Bill Text
To reauthorize the impact aid program under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965. 12/13/2007--Introduced. Fair Funding for Schools Act - Amends the Impact Aid program (which compensates local educational agencies (LEAs) for the financial burden of federal activities affecting their areas) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to alter the formula for determining the payments due LEAs for federal ownership of property when appropriations for a fiscal year are insufficient to provide them with full compensation. Alters the formula for determining the payments due LEAs for eligible federally-connected children. Includes not only children in average daily attendance, but also those enrolled pursuant to a state open enrollment policy. Continues an LEA's eligibility for such payments while activities associated with military base closures and realignments or force structure changes or relocations are ongoing. Allows the calculation of [...]

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S.2479 Sponsored by Sherrod Brown
Latest Action: 12/13/2007 - Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S15469)

Bill Text
A bill to catalyze change in the care and treatment of diabetes in the United States. 12/13/2007--Introduced. Catalyst to Better Diabetes Care Act of 2007 - Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services (the Secretary) to: (1) review uptake and utilization of diabetes screening benefits to identify and address problems with utilization and data collection mechanisms; (2) establish an outreach program to identify existing efforts to increase awareness among seniors and providers of such benefits; and (3) maximize cost-effectiveness in increasing utilization of such benefits.Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish an advisory group to examine and recommend best practices of employee wellness and disease management programs.Directs the Secretary to prepare, biennially, a diabetes report card for the nation and for each state.Requires the Secretary, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [...]

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S.2461 Sponsored by Jim DeMint
Latest Action: 12/13/2007 - Read the second time. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 545.

Bill Text
A bill to authorize the transfer of certain earmarked funds to accounts for operations and activities in Iraq and Afghanistan. 12/12/2007--Introduced. Allows the Secretary of Defense to transfer the amount of any congressionally directed spending item in or in connection with the Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2008 (division A of P.L. 110-116) to one or more of the accounts of the Department of State, Department of Defense (DOD), U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), or accounts or other agencies conducting operations or activities in Iraq or Afghanistan, for the purpose of funding such operations or activities.Defines "congressionally directed spending item" as language included primarily at the request of a Member of Congress providing, authorizing, or recommending a specific amount of discretionary budget authority, credit authority, or other spending authority for a contract, loan, loan guarantee, grant, loan authority, or other [...]