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: 05/08/2008 - Considered as unfinished business. (consideration: CR H3202-3203)

Bill Text
To enhance remedies for violations of intellectual property laws, and for other purposes. 12/5/2007--Introduced. Prioritizing Resources and Organization for Intellectual Property Act of 2007 - Amends federal copyright law to: (1) provide a safe harbor for copyright registrations that contain inaccurate information; (2) provide that copyright registration requirements apply to civil (not criminal) infringement actions; (3) require courts to issue protective orders to prevent disclosure of seized records relating to copyright infringement; (4) revise standards for civil damages in copyright infringement and counterfeiting cases; and (5) prohibit importing and exporting of infringing copies of copyrighted works. Amends the federal criminal code with respect to intellectual property to: (1) enhance criminal penalties for infringement of a copyright, for trafficking in counterfeit labels or packaging, and for causing serious bodily harm or death while trafficking in counterfeit [...]

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S.2355 Sponsored by Maria Cantwell
Latest Action: 12/04/2007 - Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. Date of scheduled consideration. SR-253. 2:30 p.m.

Bill Text
A bill to amend the National Climate Program Act to enhance the ability of the United States to develop and implement climate change adaptation programs and policies, and for other purposes. 11/14/2007--Introduced. Climate Change Adaptation Act - Amends the National Climate Program Act to: (1) eliminate the National Climate Program Office and the Climate Program Policy Board; (2) revise the elements of the National Climate Program to require a strategic plan to address the impacts of climate change in the United States and establish a National Climate Service within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA); (3) require the President to provide to Congress a five-year national strategic plan to address the impacts of climate change in the United States; (4) require the Secretary of Commerce to conduct regional assessments of coastal and ocean vulnerability to climate change and submit to Congress a national coastal and ocean adaptation plan; (5) require the [...]

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S.RES.376 Sponsored by John F. Kerry
Latest Action: 12/04/2007 - Resolution agreed to in Senate without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S14746-14747; text: CR S14746-14747)

Bill Text
A resolution providing the sense of the Senate that the Secretary of Commerce should declare a commercial fishery failure for the groundfish fishery for Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island and immediately propose regulations to implement section 312(a) of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act. 12/4/2007--Passed 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.) Declares that the Secretary of Commerce should reconsider a decision to deny the requests of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the states of Maine and Rhode Island for a groundfish fishery failure declaration, look favorably on the request of the state of New Hampshire for such a declaration, and immediately propose regulations implementing related fisheries disaster relief provisions of the Magnuson-Stevens [...]

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S.2307 Sponsored by John F. Kerry
Latest Action: 12/04/2007 - Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. Date of scheduled consideration. SR-253. 2:30 p.m.

Bill Text
A bill to amend the Global Change Research Act of 1990, and for other purposes. 11/5/2007--Introduced. Global Change Research Improvement Act of 2007 - Amends the Global Change Research Act of 1990 to: (1) rename the Committee on Earth and Environmental Sciences as the Committee on Global Change Research; (2) revise requirements governing such Committee, including requiring the Committee to develop a strategic plan for the U.S. Global Change Research Program; (3) establish an Integrated Program Office for such Program in the Office of Science and Technology Policy; (4) authorize funding for the National Science Foundation (NSF) for research grants on climate change; and (5) repeal a declaration that such Act does not preclude or delay federal planning or action to address the threats of stratospheric ozone depletion or global climate change.Requires the NSF Director and the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to arrange with the [...]

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Latest Action: 10/29/2007 - Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.

Bill Text
A bill to establish an Office of International and Domestic Product Safety and a Product Safety Coordinating Council to improve the management, coordination, promotion, and oversight of product safety responsibilities, develop a centralized public database for product recalls, advisories, and alerts, and for other purposes.

10/29/2007--Introduced.

International and Domestic Product Safety Act - Establishes in the Department of Commerce an Office of International and Domestic Product Safety to oversee and coordinate international and domestic consumer product safety responsibilities in a way that protects the health and safety of U.S. consumers and ensures that consumers and businesses have access to consumer product safety information.

Establishes a Product Safety Coordinating Council to assist the Office's director.

Latest Action: 11/08/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

Bill Text
To amend the Trade Act of 1974 to reauthorize trade adjustment assistance, to extend trade adjustment assistance to service workers and firms, and for other purposes. 10/31/2007--Passed House amended.    (There is 1 other summary) Trade and Globalization Assistance Act of 2007 - Title I: Trade Adjustment Assistance for Workers - Subtitle A: Trade Adjustment Assistance for Service Sector Workers; Expansion of Covered Shifts in Production; Expansion of Downstream Secondary Worker Eligibility - (Sec. 101) Amends the Trade Act of 1974 (the Act) to allow the filing of a petition with the Secretary of Labor for certification of eligibility to apply for trade adjustment assistance (TAA) by adversely affected workers in a service sector firm or a public agency. Revises group eligibility requirements for TAA to cover: (1) a shift, by such workers' firm or subdivision to a foreign country, of production of articles or in provision of services, like [...]

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S.2164 Sponsored by James M. Inhofe
Latest Action: 10/15/2007 - Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S12872-12873)

Bill Text
A bill to establish a Science and Technology Scholarship Program to award scholarships to recruit and prepare students for careers in the National Weather Service and in National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration marine research, atmospheric research, and satellite programs and for other purposes.

10/15/2007--Introduced.

NOAA Scholarship Act of 2007 - Authorizes the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to establish a Science and Technology Scholarship Program to award scholarships to students at institutions of higher education to recruit and prepare them for careers in the National Weather Service and in NOAA marine research, atmospheric research, and satellite programs. Sets forth provisions governing such Program.

H.R.3801 Sponsored by Adam Smith
Latest Action: 10/10/2007 - Referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committees on Education and Labor, Energy and Commerce, and Oversight and Government Reform, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of s

Bill Text
To amend the Trade Act of 1974 to address the impact of globalization, to reauthorize trade adjustment assistance, to extend trade adjustment assistance to service workers, communities, firms, and farmers, and for other purposes. 10/10/2007--Introduced. Trade Adjustment Assistance Improvement Act - Amends the Trade Act of 1974 to allow the filing of a petition with the Secretary of Labor for certification of eligibility to apply for trade adjustment assistance (TAA) by adversely affected workers in a service sector firm, its subdivision, or a public agency. Revises group eligibility requirements for TAA to cover: (1) a shift, by a public agency to a foreign country, of production of articles or in provision of services, like or directly competitive with articles which are produced, or services which are provided by the workers' firm, subdivision, or public agency; and (2) instances where the workers' firm, subdivision, or public agency obtains or is likely to obtain [...]

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Latest Action: 08/03/2007 - Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

Bill Text
A bill to amend and extend the Export Administration Act of 1979 and for other purposes. 8/3/2007--Introduced. Export Enforcement Act of 2007 - Amends the Export Administration Act of 1979 (the Act) to place the Office of Foreign Availability under the direction of the Under Secretary of Commerce for Industry and Security (under current law, the Under Secretary of Commerce for Export Administration). Increases penalties for violations of the Act. Sets forth a five-year statute of limitations for commencing a proceeding in which a civil penalty or other administrative sanction is sought under the Act. Modifies enforcement mechanisms under the Act. Subjects tangible items lawfully seized by U.S. designated officers or employees to forfeiture. Specifies the use of funds made available for undercover investigation operations by the Office of Export Enforcement. Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce, without fiscal year limitations, to expend funds transferred [...]

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H.R.3445 Sponsored by Mark Udall
Latest Action: 08/24/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Energy and Environment.

Bill Text
To establish the Weather Mitigation Operations and Research Board, and for other purposes. 8/3/2007--Introduced. Weather Mitigation Research and Technology Transfer Authorization Act of 2007 - Establishes in the Department of Commerce the Weather Mitigation Advisory and Research Board to promote and fund research and development (R&D), studies, and investigations with respect to: (1) improved forecast and decisionmaking technologies for weather mitigation operations, including tailored computer workstations and software and new observation systems with remote sensors; and (2) assessments and evaluations of the efficacy of weather mitigation, both purposeful (including cloud-seeding operations) and inadvertent (including downwind effects and anthropogenic effects). Establishes within the U.S. Treasury the Weather Mitigation Research and Development Fund. Directs the Board, unless the use of the money is restricted or subject to any limitations provided by law, to [...]

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H.R.3352 Sponsored by Don Young
Latest Action: 04/14/2008 - Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources discharged by Unanimous Consent.

Bill Text
To reauthorize and amend the Hydrographic Services Improvement Act, and for other purposes. 8/2/2007--Introduced. Hydrographic Services Improvement Act Amendments of 2007 - Amends the Hydrographic Services Improvement Act of 1998 to revise the definitions of "hydrographic data" and "hydrographic services" to include shoreline surveying and water level observations. Requires the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to provide hydrographic services. Modifies requirements regarding the awarding of contracts for the acquisition of hydrographic data. Authorizes the Administrator to create and maintain a Joint Hydrographic Institute. Authorizes the Administrator to acquire hydrographic data and provide hydrographic services to support the conservation and management of coastal and ocean resources, save and protect life and property, support commerce resumption after emergencies and disasters, and meet homeland [...]

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H.RES.563 Sponsored by Corrine Brown
Latest Action: 07/23/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade and Consumer Protection.

Bill Text
Honoring the life and achievements of Ronald H. Brown and commending the example that he set for the African-American community.

7/23/2007--Introduced.

Recognizes the dedication and devotion of former Secretary of Commerce Ronald H. Brown to public service.

Commends his actions and achievements and his inspiring example to the African-American community.

Latest Action: 11/08/2007 - On motion that the House instruct conferees Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 218 - 186 (Roll No. 1076).

Bill Text
Making appropriations for the Departments of Commerce and Justice, and Science, and Related Agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2008, and for other purposes. 10/16/2007--Passed Senate amended.    (There are 3 other summaries) Departments of Commerce and Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2008 - Makes appropriations for FY2008 for the Departments of Commerce and Justice, for science-related programs, and related agencies.Title I: Department of Commerce - Department of Commerce Appropriations Act, 2008 - Makes appropriations for the Department of Commerce for FY2008 for: (1) the International Trade Administration; (2) the Bureau of Industry and Security; (3) the Economic Development Administration; (4) the Minority Business Development Agency; (5) economic and statistical analysis programs; (6) the Bureau of the Census; (7) the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, including for grants [...]

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Latest Action: 06/29/2007 - Committee on Appropriations. Original measure reported to Senate by Senator Mikulski. With written report No. 110-124.

Bill Text
An original bill making appropriations for the Departments of Commerce and Justice, science, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2008, and for other purposes. 6/29/2007--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.)Departments of Commerce and Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2008 - Makes appropriations for FY2008 for the Departments of Commerce and Justice, for science-related programs, and related agencies.Title I: Department of Commerce - Department of Commerce Appropriations Act, 2008 - Makes appropriations for the Department of Commerce for FY2008 for: (1) the International Trade Administration; (2) the Bureau of Industry and Security; (3) the Economic Development Administration; (4) the Minority Business Development Agency;[...]

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H.R.2950 Sponsored by Heather Wilson
Latest Action: 04/25/2008 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Conservation, Credit, Energy, and Research.

Bill Text
To reduce our Nation's dependency on foreign oil by investing in clean, renewable, and alternative energy resources, promoting new emerging energy technologies, developing greater efficiency, and creating a Strategic Energy Efficiency and Renewables Reserve to invest in alternative energy, and for other purposes. 6/28/2007--Introduced. Renewable Fuels, Consumer Protection, and Energy Efficiency Act of 2007 - Biofuels for Energy Security and Transportation Act of 2007 - Directs the President to: (1) promulgate regulations establishing a renewable fuel standard; and (2) provide a credit to the owner of any facility that uses renewable energy to displace over 90% of the fossil fuel normally used in renewable fuel production. Directs the Secretary of Energy to establish: (1) a competitive infrastructure pilot grant program for renewable fuels; (2) at least 11 bioresearch centers for systems biology; (3) grants for renewable fuel production research and development in certain [...]

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H.R.2850 Sponsored by Phil Gingrey
Latest Action: 09/05/2007 - Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.

Bill Text
To provide for the implementation of a Green Chemistry Research and Development Program, and for other purposes. 9/4/2007--Passed House amended.    (There is 1 other summary) Green Chemistry Research and Development Act of 2007 - (Sec. 3) Directs the President to establish a Green Chemistry Research and Development Program to promote and coordinate federal green chemistry research, development, education, and technology transfer activities. Defines green chemistry as chemistry and and chemical engineering to design chemical products and processes that reduce or eliminate the use or generation of hazardous substances through safe and efficient manufacturing processes. Requires that Program activities be designed to: (1) provide sustained support for green chemistry research, development, education, and technology transfer; (2) examine how the federal government can create green chemistry processes and products; (3) facilitate the adoption of green [...]

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Latest Action: 06/30/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife, and Oceans.

Bill Text
To restore, protect, and preserve the natural, chemical, physical, and biological integrity, and the economic potentialities, of the New York/New Jersey Bight through designation and establishment of the New Jersey/New York Clean Ocean Zone and the regulation of various activities therein, and for other purposes. 6/25/2007--Introduced. New Jersey/New York Clean Ocean Zone Act of 2007 - Designates the New York/New Jersey Bight as the New Jersey/New York Clean Ocean Zone. Prohibits the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, the Secretary of the Army, and all states from issuing a permit for ocean dumping, or establishing any new disposal site in the Zone, including under specified provisions of existing law. Terminates all existing disposal site designations, subject to exception. Prohibits: (1) the discharge of a pollutant into the Zone from a point source constructed or put into use after enactment of this Act under specified provisions of the Federal [...]

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Latest Action: 06/25/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife, and Oceans.

Bill Text
To authorize appropriations for the National Sea Grant College Program Act for fiscal years 2009 through 2013.

6/22/2007--Introduced.

Amends the National Sea Grant College Program Act to authorize appropriations for FY2009-FY2013 to carry out the Act.

S.1661 Sponsored by Byron L. Dorgan
Latest Action: 11/27/2007 - Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. Reported by Senator Inouye under authority of the order of the Senate of 11/16/2007 with amendments. With written report No. 110-233.

Bill Text
A bill to communicate United States travel policies and improve marketing and other activities designed to increase travel in the United States from abroad. 11/27/2007--Reported to Senate amended.    (There is 1 other summary) Travel Promotion Act of 2007 - (Sec. 2) Establishes as a nonprofit corporation the Corporation for Travel Promotion to develop and execute a plan to: (1) provide information to foreign tourists and others interested in traveling to the United States; (2) counter and correct misperceptions regarding U.S. travel policy; (3) maximize the economic and diplomatic benefits of travel to the United States; (4) ensure that international travel to the United States benefits all states and the District of Columbia; and (5) give travel promotion priority to countries and populations most likely to travel to the United States. Requires fiscal accountability and annual audits of the Corporation, as well as an annual report from the Corporation [...]

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S.1650 Sponsored by John F. Kerry
Latest Action: 01/08/2008 - Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. Reported by Senator Inouye under authority of the order of the Senate of 12/19/2007 with amendments. With written report No. 110-257.

Bill Text
A bill to establish a digital and wireless network technology program, and for other purposes. 1/8/2008--Reported to Senate amended.    (There is 1 other summary) Max Cleland Minority Serving Institution Digital and Wireless Technology Opportunity Act - Establishes in the Department of Commerce an Office of Minority Serving Institution Digital and Wireless Technology to: (1) award grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements (assistance) to eligible institutions to provide educational instruction in digital and wireless network technologies; and (2) strengthen the national digital and wireless infrastructure by increasing national investment in telecommunications and technology infrastructure at eligible institutions. Requires the Secretary of Commerce to establish an advisory council on the best approaches for involving eligible institutions in supported activities and for reviewing and evaluating submitted proposals. Requires the council to include [...]

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H.R.2764 Sponsored by Nita M. Lowey
Latest Action: 12/26/2007 - Signed by President.

Bill Text
Making appropriations for the Department of State, foreign operations, and related programs for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2008, and for other purposes. 12/26/2007--Public Law.    (There are 3 other summaries) Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2008 - Division A: Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2008 - Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2008 - Title I: Agricultural Programs - Appropriates FY2008 funds for the following Department of Agriculture (Department) programs and services: (1) Office of the Secretary of Agriculture (Secretary); (2) Office of the Chief Economist; (3) National Appeals Division; (4) Office of Budget and Program Analysis; (5) Homeland Security Staff; (6) Office of the Chief Information Officer; (7) Office of the Chief Financial Officer; (8) Office of the Assistant Secretary for [...]

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S.1609 Sponsored by Daniel K. Inouye
Latest Action: 06/13/2007 - Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S7645)

Bill Text
A bill to provide the necessary authority to the Secretary of Commerce for the establishment and implementation of a regulatory system for offshore aquaculture in the United States Exclusive Economic Zone, and for other purposes. 6/13/2007--Introduced. National Offshore Aquaculture Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of Commerce to establish an operating permit process for the development and operation of offshore aquaculture facilities in areas of the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Requires the Secretary to prepare an analysis under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 with respect to the process for issuing permits. Authorizes the Secretary to issue such permits. Prohibits considering offshore aquaculture "fishing" under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act. Prohibits permits for facilities within 12 miles of a coastal state if the state opposes the activities. Authorizes the Secretary of the department in which the [...]

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S.1579 Sponsored by Olympia J. Snowe
Latest Action: 06/07/2007 - Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S7366-7367)

Bill Text
A bill to amend the Coastal Zone Management Act. 6/7/2007--Introduced. Coastal Zone Enhancement Reauthorization Act of 2007 - Amends the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 to declare that it is the national policy to: (1) create and use a National Estuarine Research Reserve System; and (2) encourage innovative coastal management practices and coastal and estuarine environmental technologies to improve long-term conservation. Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to make grants to coastal states for development of coastal zone management programs. Allows the use of state coastal zone management program grants to develop and implement coastal nonpoint pollution control program components. Revises the eligible uses of resource management improvement grants and resource management improvement grant requirements. Revises requirements for the Coastal Zone Management Fund. Requires state loan repayments to the Fund to be made available to make grants to states [...]

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H.R.2420 Sponsored by Tom Lantos
Latest Action: 06/28/2007 - Reported (Amended) by the Committee on Foreign Affairs. H. Rept. 110-215.

Bill Text
To declare United States policy on international climate cooperation, to authorize assistance to promote clean and efficient energy technologies in foreign countries, and to establish the International Clean Energy Foundation. 6/28/2007--Reported to House amended.    (There is 1 other summary) International Climate Cooperation Re-engagement Act of 2007 - Title I: United States Policy on Global Climate Change - (Sec. 103) Establishes within the Department of State an Office on Global Climate Change, which shall be headed by the Ambassador-at-Large for Global Climate Change. States that the primary responsibility of the Ambassador-at-Large shall be to advance U.S. goals with respect to reducing global greenhouse gas emissions and addressing global climate change. Authorizes the Ambassador-at-Large to represent the United States in diplomatic contacts relating to global climate change. Title II: Assistance to Promote Clean and Efficient [...]

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Latest Action: 07/24/2007 - Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.

Bill Text
To direct the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to establish an integrated Federal ocean and coastal mapping plan for the Great Lakes and coastal state waters, the territorial sea, the exclusive economic zone, and the Continental Shelf of the United States, and for other purposes. 7/23/2007--Passed House amended.    (There is 1 other summary) Ocean and Coastal Mapping Integration Act - (Sec. 2) Directs the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to establish an integrated ocean and coastal mapping program for the Great Lakes and coastal state waters, the territorial sea, the exclusive economic zone, and the U.S. continental shelf that enhances ecosystem approaches in decision-making for conservation and management of marine resources and habitats, establishes research priorities, supports the siting of research and other platforms, advances safety of navigation, and advances ocean and [...]

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H.R.2406 Sponsored by Bart Gordon
Latest Action: 11/15/2007 - Reported (Amended) by the Committee on Science and Technology. H. Rept. 110-451.

Bill Text
To authorize the National Institute of Standards and Technology to increase its efforts in support of the integration of the healthcare information enterprise in the United States. 11/15/2007--Reported to House amended.    (There is 1 other summary) Healthcare Information Technology Enterprise Integration Act - (Sec. 3) Requires the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to establish an initiative for advancing health care information enterprise integration within the United States. Authorizes the Director to focus on: (1) information technology standards and interoperability analysis; (2) supporting the establishment of conformance testing infrastructure; (3) security; (4) medical device communication; (5) supporting the provisioning of technical architecture products for management and retrieval; and (6) information management.Allows the Director to assist health care representatives and organizations and federal [...]

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Latest Action: 04/01/2008 - Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.

Bill Text
To direct the President to establish a National Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation System, and for other purposes. 5/16/2007--Introduced. National Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation Act of 2007 - Directs the President to establish a National Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation System to: (1) measure, track, explain, and predict events related to climate change, natural climate variability, and interactions between the oceanic and atmospheric environments, including the Great Lakes; (2) promote basic and applied research; and (3) institutionalize coordinated public outreach, education, and training. Sets forth the responsibilities and authorities of the National Ocean Research Leadership Council, the Interagency Working Group on Ocean Observations, and the Secretary of Commerce, acting through the administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Provides for the certification or establishment of Regional Information [...]

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Latest Action: 06/04/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Courts, the Internet, and Intellectual Property.

Bill Text
To amend title 35, United States Code, relating to the funding of the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

5/16/2007--Introduced.

Modifies provisions relating to the funding of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office to allow such Office to retain and use all fees paid to such Office (currently, the availability of such fees is provided in advance by appropriations Acts).

Latest Action: 08/03/2007 - Reported (Amended) by the Committee on Natural Resources. H. Rept. 110-296, Part I.

Bill Text
To promote energy policy reforms and public accountability, alternative energy and efficiency, and carbon capture and climate change mitigation, and for other purposes. 8/3/2007--Reported to House amended, Part I.    (There is 1 other summary) Energy Policy Reform and Revitalization Act of 2007 - Title I: Energy Policy Act of 2005 Reforms - (Sec. 101) Instructs the Secretary of the Interior (Secretary) to establish a cost recovery fee for applications for a permit to drill for oil and gas on federal lands administered by the Secretary. Sets forth a temporary interim fee of $1,700. Amends the Mineral Leasing Act to repeal the requirement that rentals received from leases be deposited in the Treasury (in the BLM Permit Processing Improvement Fund, thus repealing authority for the Fund). (Sec. 102) Amends the Mineral Leasing Act to extend from 30 days to 90 days the deadline by which the Secretary must either issue or defer a decision [...]

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Latest Action: 05/21/2007 - Mr. Melancon moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution.

Bill Text
Supporting the goals and ideals of National Hurricane Preparedness Week.

5/21/2007--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.)

Expresses support for the goals and ideals of National Hurricane Preparedness Week.

Encourages the staff of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), especially at the National Weather Service and the National Hurricane Center, and other appropriate federal agencies to continue their outstanding work to educate people about hurricane preparedness.

Urges the people of the United States to recognize such week as an opportunity to learn more about the Center's work and the risks associated with hurricanes.

H.R.2272 Sponsored by Bart Gordon
Latest Action: 05/06/2008 - Hearing Held by Full Committee Prior to Introduction and Referral (March 13, 2007).

Bill Text
To invest in innovation through research and development, and to improve the competitiveness of the United States. 8/9/2007--Public Law.    (There are 3 other summaries) America COMPETES Act or America Creating Opportunities to Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology, Education, and Science Act - Title I: Office of Science and Technology Policy; Government-Wide Science - (Sec. 1001) Directs the President to: (1) convene a National Science and Technology Summit to examine the health and direction of the United States' science, technology, engineering, and mathematics enterprises; and (2) issue a report on Summit results. Requires, beginning with the President's budget submission for the fiscal year following the conclusion of the Summit and for each of the following four budget submissions, the analytical perspectives component of the budget that describes the research and development (R&D) priorities to include a description of how those [...]

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Latest Action: 12/06/2007 - Received in the Senate and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.

Bill Text
Recognizing 200 years of research, service to the people of the United States, and stewardship of the marine environment by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and its predecessor agencies, and for other purposes. 12/5/2007--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: (1) the contributions of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and its predecessor agencies over a 200-year period to human understanding of the oceans and atmosphere and their stewardship of the marine environment; (2) the vision of President Thomas Jefferson in supporting scientific advancement and coastal surveys; and (3) the contributions of employees and officers of the Coast Survey, the National Geodetic Survey, and the Center for Operational Oceanographic Products and Services of the National Oceanic [...]

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H.R.2206 Sponsored by David R. Obey
Latest Action: 05/25/2007 - Message on Senate action sent to the House.

Bill Text
Making emergency supplemental appropriations and additional supplemental appropriations for agricultural and other emergency assistance for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2007, and for other purposes. 5/25/2007--Public Law.    (There are 3 other summaries) U.S. Troop Readiness, Veterans' Care, Katrina Recovery, and Iraq Accountability Appropriations Act, 2007 - Title I: Supplemental Appropriations for Defense, International Affairs, and Other Security-Related Needs - Chapter 1 - Makes additional FY2007 appropriations to the Department of Agriculture, Foreign Agricultural Service, for commodities supplied in connection with dispositions abroad under Public Law 480 Title II Grants. Chapter 2 - Makes additional FY2007 appropriations to the Department of Justice, to remain available through FY2008, for general legal activities, U.S. Attorneys, the U.S. Marshals Service, the National Security Division, the Federal Bureau of Investigation [...]

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H.R.2207 Sponsored by David R. Obey
Latest Action: 05/10/2007 - Rule provides for consideration of H.R. 2237, H.R. 2206 and H.R. 2207.

Bill Text
Making supplemental appropriations for agricultural and other emergency assistance for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2007, and for other purposes. 5/10/2007--Passed House amended.    (There is 1 other summary) Agricultural Disaster Assistance and Western States Emergency Unfinished Business Appropriations Act, 2007 - Title I: Agricultural Assistance - (Sec. 1001) Appropriates FY2007 amounts for emergency financial assistance to producers on a farm that incurred qualifying quantity or quality losses for the 2005 or 2006 crop, or that part of the 2007 crop year before February 28, 2007, due to damaging weather or any related condition (including crop diseases, insects, and delayed planting). Requires that an eligible crop must have been planted before February 28, 2007, or in the case of prevented planting or other total loss, would have been planted before such date. Requires a producer who suffered qualifying losses to elect assistance for [...]

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Latest Action: 05/07/2007 - Referred to the Committee on Appropriations, and in addition to the Committee on the Budget, 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 conc

Bill Text
To make emergency supplemental appropriations for Katrina recovery for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2007, and for other purposes.

5/7/2007--Introduced.

Katrina Recovery Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2007 - Makes emergency supplemental FY2007 appropriations for disaster relief and recovery related to Hurricanes Katrina, Wilma, Dennis, and Rita to the Departments of Agriculture, of Justice, of Commerce, of Defense (Civil), of Homeland Security, of Interior, of Education, of Transportation, of Housing and Urban Development, and the Small Business Administration (SBA).

Latest Action: 05/08/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Technology and Innovation.

Bill Text
To provide support for small business concerns, and for other purposes. 5/3/2007--Introduced. Small Business Investment and Promotion Act of 2007 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) provide to small business owners and operators of farming or commercial fishing businesses a temporary credit for excessive fuel costs paid or incurred in the operation of such business; (2) make permanent the credit for increasing research activities; and (3) treat as 15-year property for purposes of the depreciation deduction qualified restaurant property, qualified retail improvement property, and certain systems installed in nonresidential buildings. Authorizes appropriations for FY2008-FY2009 for: (1) the Advanced Technology Program; (2) the Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE); (3) small business development centers; (4) the Manufacturing Extension Partnership program; and (5) the Women's Business Centers program. Expresses the sense of Congress calling for appropriate [...]

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H.R.2084 Sponsored by Jeb Hensarling
Latest Action: 05/01/2007 - Referred to the Committee on the Budget, and in addition to the Committees on Rules, Ways and Means, Appropriations, and Oversight and Government Reform, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such pro

Bill Text
To reform Federal budget procedures, to impose spending safeguards, to combat waste, fraud, and abuse, to account for accurate Government agency costs, and for other purposes. 5/1/2007--Introduced. Family Budget Protection Act of 2007 - Amends the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 (CBA) to eliminate the May 15 deadline for consideration of annual appropriations measures. Requires annual joint (currently, concurrent) budget resolutions signed by the President. Provides for an amendment to change the statutory limit on the public debt. Requires consideration of budget-related legislation before the budget resolution becomes law. Provides for establishment of a reserve fund for emergencies. Prescribes requirements for biennial budget resolutions, appropriations Acts, and government strategic and performance plans instead of annual ones if the President and Congress so agree. Provides spending caps on the growth of entitlements and mandatory [...]

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Latest Action: 07/12/2007 - Subcommittee Hearings Held.

Bill Text
To provide the necessary authority to the Secretary of Commerce for the establishment and implementation of a regulatory system for offshore aquaculture in the United States Exclusive Economic Zone, and for other purposes. 4/24/2007--Introduced. National Offshore Aquaculture Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of Commerce to establish an operating permit process for the development and operation of offshore aquaculture facilities in areas of the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Requires the Secretary to prepare an analysis under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 with respect to the process for issuing permits. Authorizes the Secretary to issue such permits. Excludes offshore aquaculture from the definition of "fishing" under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act. Prohibits permits for facilities within 12 miles of a coastal state if the state opposes the activities. Authorizes the Secretary of the department in which [...]

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Latest Action: 09/11/2007 - Read the second time. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 348.

Bill Text
To amend title 35, United States Code, to provide for patent reform. 9/7/2007--Passed House amended.    (There are 2 other summaries) Patent Reform Act of 2007 - Amends federal patent law to establish a first-inventor-to file system and to add or revise provisions governing patent review proceedings and patent infringement litigation.(Sec. 3) Adds and expands definitions relating to patents. Defines "inventor" as the individual or individuals collectively who invented or discovered the subject matter of the invention and "joint inventor" as any one of the individuals who invented or discovered the subject matter of an invention. Defines "effective filing date of a claimed invention" as the filing date of the patent or the application for patent containing the claim to the invention (thus establishing a first-inventor-to-file system).Revises the definition of "prior art" and conditions for patentability [...]

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S.1145 Sponsored by Patrick J. Leahy
Latest Action: 01/24/2008 - Committee on the Judiciary. Reported by Senator Leahy with an amendment in the nature of a substitute. With written report No. 110-259. Additional and Minority views filed.

Bill Text
A bill to amend title 35, United States Code, to provide for patent reform. 1/24/2008--Reported to Senate amended.    (There is 1 other summary) Patent Reform Act of 2007 - (Sec. 2) Amends federal patent law to define terms, including "inventor," "joint inventor," and "effective filing date of a claimed invention." Modifies the conditions under which a patent may be obtained, including basing patent granting in part on filing dates (often referred to as a "first-to-file" system). Repeals provisions relating to inventions made abroad and provisions allowing statutory invention registration. Requires that a subsequent patent application which names an inventor or joint inventor in a previous application (currently, an application which is filed by an inventor or inventors named in a previous application) have the same effect as though filed on the date of the previous application. Repeals [...]

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H.R.1868 Sponsored by David Wu
Latest Action: 05/06/2008 - Hearing Held by Subcommittee on Technology and Innovation Prior to Introduction and Referral (February 15, 2007).

Bill Text
To authorize appropriations for the National Institute of Standards and Technology for fiscal years 2008, 2009, and 2010, and for other purposes. 5/3/2007--Passed House amended.    (There are 2 other summaries) Technology Innovation and Manufacturing Stimulation Act of 2007 - Title I: Authorization of Appropriations - (Sec. 101) Authorizes appropriations to the Secretary of Commerce for FY2008-FY2010 for: (1) scientific and technical research and services laboratory activities of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST); (2) the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award program; (3) construction and maintenance of NIST facilities; and (4) NIST Industrial Technology Services activities. Title II: Innovation and Technology Policy Reforms - (Sec. 201) Requires the Director of NIST (the Director), concurrent with submission to Congress of the President's annual budget request, to transmit a three-year programmatic planning [...]

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Latest Action: 04/20/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Courts, the Internet, and Intellectual Property.

Bill Text
To amend title 35, United States Code, to allow the Director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office to accept late filings in certain cases of unintentional delay.

3/29/2007--Introduced.

Authorizes the Director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) to accept any application or other filing made by an applicant for, or owner of, a patent or trademark after the applicable deadline, as the Director considers appropriate, if the applicant or owner files a petition within 30 days after such deadline showing that the delay was unintentional. Deems such a petition denied if the Director has not made a decision within 60 days. Provides that the Director's decision is not subject to judicial review.

Deems that the 30-day period to file a petition after the deadline begins on the date of enactment of this Act for trademark applicants or owners.

H.R.1834 Sponsored by Jim Saxton
Latest Action: 02/25/2008 - Received in the Senate. Read twice. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 581.

Bill Text
To authorize the national ocean exploration program and the national undersea research program within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. 2/14/2008--Passed House amended.    (There are 3 other summaries) Title I: National Ocean Exploration Program - National Ocean Exploration Program Act - (Sec. 102) Requires the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to conduct a coordinated national ocean exploration program in NOAA that promotes collaboration with other federal ocean and undersea research and exploration programs. (Sec. 103) Sets forth program authorities, including authorizing the Administrator to accept donations of property, data, and equipment to be applied for exploring the oceans or increasing knowledge of the oceans. (Sec. 104) Requires the NOAA Administrator to appoint an Ocean Exploration Advisory Board. (Sec. 105) Declares that nothing in this Act supersedes [...]

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S.965 Sponsored by Robert C. Byrd
Latest Action: 03/22/2007 - Committee on Appropriations. Original measure reported to Senate by Senator Byrd. With written report No. 110-37.

Bill Text
An original bill making emergency supplemental appropriations for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2007, and for other purposes. 3/22/2007--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.) U.S. Troop Readiness, Veterans' Care, Katrina Recovery, and Iraq Accountability Appropriations Act, 2007 - Title I: Global War on Terror Supplemental Appropriations - Chapter 1: Department of Agriculture - Makes emergency supplemental FY2007 appropriations for specified activities related to the global war on terror to the Department of Agriculture (including food relief to certain foreign countries). (Sec. 1101) Makes specified appropriations to reimburse the Commodity Credit Corporation for the release of eligible commodities for emergency humanitarian food needs in developing countries [...]

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Latest Action: 09/18/2007 - Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.

Bill Text
To establish a Science and Technology Scholarship Program to award scholarships to recruit and prepare students for careers in the National Weather Service and in National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration marine research, atmospheric research, and satellite programs. 9/17/2007--Passed House 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.) Authorizes the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to establish a Science and Technology Scholarship Program to award scholarships to students at institutions of higher education to recruit and prepare them for careers in the National Weather Service and in NOAA marine research, atmospheric research, and satellite programs. Requires individuals to be selected to receive scholarships under this Act through a competitive process [...]

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S.950 Sponsored by Olympia J. Snowe
Latest Action: 11/02/2007 - Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. Reported by Senator Inouye with an amendment in the nature of a substitute. With written report No. 110-217.

Bill Text
A bill to develop and maintain an integrated system of coastal and ocean observations for the Nation's coasts, oceans, and Great Lakes, to improve warnings of tsunami, hurricanes, El Nino events, and other natural hazards, to enhance homeland security, to support maritime operations, to improve management of coastal and marine resources, and for other purposes. 11/2/2007--Reported to Senate amended.    (There is 1 other summary) Coastal and Ocean Observation System Act of 2007 - (Sec. 4) Directs the President, acting through the National Ocean Research Leadership Council, to establish and maintain an integrated system of coastal and ocean observations, data communication and management, analysis, modeling, research, education, and outreach for the timely detection and prediction of changes occurring in the ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes environments that impact the nation's social, economic, and ecological systems. Includes in the system a national program,[...]

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H.R.1591 Sponsored by David R. Obey
Latest Action: 05/02/2007 - On passage, the objections of the President to the contrary notwithstanding Failed by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 222 - 203, 1 Present (Roll no. 276). (consideration: CR H4315-4326; text of Veto message: CR H4315)

Bill Text
Making emergency supplemental appropriations for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2007, and for other purposes. 4/24/2007--Conference report filed in House.    (There are 3 other summaries) U.S. Troop Readiness, Veterans' Care, Katrina Recovery, and Iraq Accountability Appropriations Act, 2007 - Title I: Global War on Terror Supplemental Appropriations - Chapter 1 - Makes FY2007 emergency supplemental appropriations to the Department of Agriculture, Foreign Agricultural Service, for commodities supplied in connection with dispositions abroad under Public Law 480 Title II Grants. (Sec. 1101) Makes specified appropriations to reimburse the Commodity Credit Corporation for the release of eligible commodities for emergency humanitarian food needs in developing countries under the Bill Emerson Humanitarian Trust Act, in order to replenish the Bill Emerson Humanitarian Trust. Chapter 2 - Makes FY2007 emergency supplemental appropriations [...]

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S.791 Sponsored by Carl Levin
Latest Action: 03/07/2007 - Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S2800-2801)

Bill Text
A bill to establish a collaborative program to protect the Great Lakes, and for other purposes. 3/7/2007--Introduced. Great Lakes Collaboration Implementation Act of 2007 - National Aquatic Invasive Species Act of 2007 - Amends the Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and Control Act of 1990 to: (1) require certain vessels operating in U.S. waters to have invasive species management plans; (2) direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to establish vessel performance requirements with the goal of eliminating invasive species, (3) require vessels to conduct ballast water treatment in accordance with numeric ballast water discharge standards; (4) direct the Secretary to promulgate regulations to minimize the discharge of invasive species from ships that claim no ballast on board, or that claim to be carrying only u