Latest Action: 05/02/2008 - Cleared for White House.

Bill Text
To make technical corrections regarding the Newborn Screening Saves Lives Act of 2007.
H.R.4231 Sponsored by Steve Kagen
Latest Action: 11/16/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

Bill Text
To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a pilot program to provide mental health services to certain veterans of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. 11/15/2007--Introduced. Rural Veterans Health Care Access Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (Secretary) to establish and implement a pilot program to provide mental health counseling services to eligible veterans at non-Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical facilities. Defines "eligible veteran" as one who: (1) served on active duty in support of a contingency operation; (2) is eligible to receive hospital care and medical services; (3) has been diagnosed with a mental health condition and recommended to receive mental health counseling; and (4) resides at least 30 miles from a VA medical facility that employs a full-time mental health professional. Requires the Secretary to issue to an eligible veteran a six-month supply of vouchers to be used to pay for [...]

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Latest Action: 11/02/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

Bill Text
To improve the treatment and services provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs to veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder and substance use disorders, and for other purposes. 11/1/2007--Introduced. Mental Health Improvements Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the provision of specified substance use disorder treatment services at each Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical center and community-based outpatient clinic. Requires the Secretary to ensure that treatment for a substance use disorder and a comorbid mental health disorder is provided concurrently by a team of experienced clinicians. Requires the Secretary to: (1) carry out a program of enhanced care and treatment for veterans with substance use disorders and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); and (2) establish at least six national centers of excellence on PTSD and substance use disorders. Requires a report on residential mental health care facilities [...]

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S.2162 Sponsored by Daniel K. Akaka
Latest Action: 04/08/2008 - Committee on Veterans' Affairs. Reported by Senator Akaka with an amendment in the nature of a substitute. With written report No. 110-281.

Bill Text
A bill to improve the treatment and services provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs to veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder and substance use disorders, and for other purposes. 4/8/2008--Reported to Senate amended.    (There is 1 other summary) Veterans Mental Health Improvements Act of 2008 - Title I: Substance Use Disorders and Mental Health Care - (Sec. 102) Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure the provision of the following treatment and services, as needed, to each veteran enrolled in the health care system of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and in need of treatment or services for a substance abuse disorder: (1) short-term motivational counseling; (2) intensive outpatient or residential care; (3) relapse prevention; (4) ongoing aftercare and outpatient counseling; (5) opiate substitution therapy; (6) pharmacological treatments to reduce cravings for drugs and alcohol; and (7) detoxification and stabilization.[...]

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Latest Action: 04/24/2008 - Signed by President.

Bill Text
A bill to amend the Public Health Service Act to establish grant programs to provide for education and outreach on newborn screening and coordinated followup care once newborn screening has been conducted, to reauthorize programs under part A of title XI of such Act, and for other purposes. 4/8/2008--Passed House without amendment.    (There are 2 other summaries) (This measure has not been amended since it was passed by the Senate on December 13, 2007. The summary of that version is repeated here.)Newborn Screening Saves Lives Act of 2007 - (Sec. 2) Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), to award grants to eligible entities to: (1) provide screening, counseling, or health care services to newborns and children having or at risk for heritable disorders; (2) provide education and training in newborn [...]

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Latest Action: 04/23/2008 - Subcommittee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held.

Bill Text
To amend the Public Health Service Act to increase the provision of scientifically sound information and support services to patients receiving a positive test diagnosis for Down syndrome or other prenatally diagnosed conditions. 7/19/2007--Introduced. Prenatally Diagnosed Condition Awareness Act of 2007 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through either the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), or the Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), to authorize and oversee certain activities relating to Down syndrome or other prenatally diagnosed conditions, including the awarding of grants, contracts or cooperative agreements to: (1) collect, synthesize, and disseminate current scientific information; and (2) coordinate the provision of, and access to, supportive services for patients affected, which [...]

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S.1834 Sponsored by Michael B. Enzi
Latest Action: 07/19/2007 - Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S9622-9623)

Bill Text
A bill to improve the health of Americans through the gradual elimination of tobacco products. 7/19/2007--Introduced. Help End Addiction to Lethal Tobacco Habits Act or the HEALTH Act - Amends the Federal Cigarette Labeling and Advertising Act and the Smokeless Tobacco Health Education Act of 1986 to make changes to annual reporting requirements relating to ingredients added to tobacco in the manufacture of cigarettes and smokeless tobacco.Requires the Secretary of Commerce, acting through the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, to develop standards and best practices for: (1) the sampling of tobacco, smokeless tobacco, and tobacco products; and (2) accurate measurement and analysis of tobacco constituents.Makes changes to the Surgeon General's Warning on the packages of cigarettes and smokeless tobacco, including the content, size, and location of such warnings.Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services (the Secretary) [...]

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S.1810 Sponsored by Sam Brownback
Latest Action: 04/21/2008 - Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. Reported by Senator Kennedy with an amendment in the nature of a substitute. Without written report.

Bill Text
A bill to amend the Public Health Service Act to increase the provision of scientifically sound information and support services to patients receiving a positive test diagnosis for Down syndrome or other prenatally and postnatally diagnosed conditions. 7/18/2007--Introduced. Prenatally and Postnatally Diagnosed Conditions Awareness Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through either the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), or the Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), to authorize and oversee certain activities relating to Down syndrome or other prenatally or postnatally diagnosed conditions, including the awarding of grants, contracts or cooperative agreements to: (1) collect, synthesize, and disseminate current scientific information; and (2) coordinate the provision of, and access to,[...]

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S.1790 Sponsored by Barack Obama
Latest Action: 07/16/2007 - Read twice and referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.

Bill Text
A bill to make grants to carry out activities to prevent the incidence of unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections among teens in racial or ethnic minority or immigrant communities, and for other purposes. 7/16/2007--Introduced. Communities of Color Teen Pregnancy Prevention Act of 2007 - Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make grants for projects to prevent teen pregnancies in racial, ethnic minority, or immigrant communities with a substantial incidence or prevalence of cases of teen pregnancy compared to the average number in communities in the state.Allows the Secretary to make grants to: (1) carry out activities to prevent unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections among teens; (2) provide necessary social and cultural support services regarding teen pregnancy; (3) provide health and educational services related to the prevention of unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections among teens; (4) promote [...]

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H.R.3000 Sponsored by Barbara Lee
Latest Action: 09/11/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Workforce Protections.

Bill Text
To establish a United States Health Service to provide high quality comprehensive health care for all Americans and to overcome the deficiencies in the present system of health care delivery. 7/11/2007--Introduced. Josephine Butler United States Health Service Act - Establishes the United States Health Service as an independent executive branch entity to provide health care and supplemental health services to all individuals within the United States. Requires the President to appoint members to a National Health Board to exercise the authority of the Service. Establishes an Office of the Inspector General for Health Services. Requires the Service to ensure that every individual is given certain basic health rights, including the right to receive high quality care and supplemental services from any facility within the Service capable of providing such services without charge and without discrimination. Amends the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to provide [...]

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S.1744 Sponsored by Barbara Boxer
Latest Action: 06/28/2007 - Read twice and referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations.

Bill Text
A bill to prohibit the application of certain restrictive eligibility requirements to foreign nongovernmental organizations with respect to the provision of assistance under part I of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961.

6/28/2007--Introduced.

Global Democracy Promotion Act - Declares that foreign nongovernmental organizations: (1) shall not be ineligible for assistance under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 solely on the basis of health or medical services (including counseling and referral services) provided by them with non-U.S. government funds if such services do not violate the laws of the country in which they are being provided, and would not violate U.S. federal law if provided in the United States; and (2) shall not be subject to requirements relating to the use of non-U.S. government funds for advocacy and lobbying activities other than those that apply to U.S. nongovernmental organizations receiving such assistance.

Latest Action: 08/03/2007 - Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.

Bill Text
To amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain improvements in the provision of health care to veterans, and for other purposes. 7/30/2007--Passed House amended.    (There is 1 other summary) Veterans' Health Care Improvement Act of 2007 - (Sec. 2) Authorizes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to make grants to private, nonprofit entities to conduct workshop programs to assist in the therapeutic readjustment and rehabilitation of veterans who served on active duty in a theater of combat operations after the Persian Gulf War, or in combat during a period of hostilities after November 11, 1998, and are discharged or released from active duty on or after September 11, 2001 (covered veterans). Limits grant amounts to $100,000. Requires annual reports from the Secretary to the congressional veterans committees on the use of such grants and their benefits to covered veterans. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 3) Directs the Secretary to establish [...]

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S.RES.254 Sponsored by Norm Coleman
Latest Action: 06/25/2007 - Referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. (text of measure as introduced: CR S8364-8365)

Bill Text
A resolution supporting efforts for increased healthy living for childhood cancer survivors.

6/25/2007--Introduced.

Calls for the U.S government to: (1) support neuropsychological research and testing of childhood cancer survivors and their families; (2) work with health care providers, educators, and childhood cancer advocacy and education organizations to encourage such testing; (3) reaffirm the U.S. commitment to fighting childhood cancer by promoting awareness about its causes, risks, prevention, and treatment; (4) promote new education programs about, research of, and expanded medical treatment for childhood cancer survivors; (5) support research and expanded public-private partnerships to improve post-cancer life for survivors; and (6) encourage early diagnosis and access to high-quality care for childhood cancer patients and survivors.

Latest Action: 07/25/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

Bill Text
To provide for transitional emergency assistance to certain members of the Armed Forces and veterans who are severely injured while serving on active duty, to expand and improve programs for caregiver services for those members and veterans, to require improved screening and care for traumatic brain injury for returning servicemembers and veterans, and for other purposes. 6/25/2007--Introduced. Wounded Heroes' Bill of Rights Act - Directs the Secretary of Defense to provide prompt emergency cash assistance to a member of the Armed Forces or veteran who, on or after September 11, 2001, was or is severely injured while serving on active duty (to be known as a Wounded Hero) and, due to such injury, is undergoing significant financial difficulty. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide a business tax credit for employers hiring Wounded Heroes. Amends the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to provide increased protections under such Act for Wounded Heroes and persons [...]

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H.R.2739 Sponsored by Robin Hayes
Latest Action: 06/28/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

Bill Text
To amend title 10, United States Code, relating to payment of mental health counselors under TRICARE.

6/15/2007--Introduced.

TRICARE Mental Health Services Enhancement Act - Amends the TRICARE program (a Department of Defense (DOD) managed health care program) to authorize the provision of mental health counseling for TRICARE participants. Authorizes the provision of mental health services in DOD clinical trials.

Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1995 to authorize the Secretary of Defense to enter into personal service contracts with mental health counselors.

Includes mental health counselors within DOD licensure requirements for health-care professionals.

H.R.2746 Sponsored by Diana DeGette
Latest Action: 06/15/2007 - Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.

Bill Text
To amend titles XIX and XXI of the Social Security Act to provide States with the option to expand or add coverage of pregnant women under the Medicaid and State children's health insurance programs, and for other purposes. 6/15/2007--Introduced. Prevent Prematurity and Improve Child Health Act of 2007 - Amends titles XIX (Medicaid) and XXI (State Children's Health Insurance Program) (SCHIP) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to give states new options to cover: (1) low-income pregnant women; and (2) low-income legal immigrant pregnant women and children under Medicaid and SCHIP. Extends coverage under Medicaid of prescription drugs and counseling services to tobacco cessation medications to help pregnant women enrolled in the program quit using tobacco. Requires coverage of tobacco cessation counseling services for pregnant women, and exempts such services from cost-sharing charges. Gives states the option under Medicaid to: (1) provide family planning services [...]

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Latest Action: 06/14/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

Bill Text
Supporting the goals and ideals of National HIV Testing Day, and for other purposes.

6/14/2007--Introduced.

Expresses support for the goals and ideals of National HIV/AIDS Testing Day.

Encourages the use of rapid test kits approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for HIV testing.

H.R.2677 Sponsored by Mary Bono Mack
Latest Action: 06/12/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

Bill Text
To establish grants to provide health services for improved nutrition, increased physical activity, obesity and eating disorder prevention, and for other purposes. 6/12/2007--Introduced. Improved Nutrition and Physical Activity Act or the IMPACT Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to expand an existing grant program for training for health profession students to include the treatment of individuals who are overweight, obese, or have eating disorders. Allows the Secretary of Health and Human Services to award grants for the training of primary care physicians and other health professions on how to identify, treat, and prevent obesity or eating disorders and aid individuals who are overweight or obese or who suffer from eating disorders. Requires the Secretary, acting though the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to award grants for the planning and implementation of programs that promote healthy eating behaviors and physical [...]

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H.RES.470 Sponsored by Deborah Pryce
Latest Action: 09/25/2007 - Mr. Pallone moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution.

Bill Text
Supporting efforts to increase childhood cancer awareness, treatment, and research.

9/25/2007--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.)

Calls for Congress to support: (1) efforts to promote awareness about the incidence, symptoms, and treatment options of cancer among children; (2) increased investment in childhood cancer research; (3) incentives to encourage medical trainees and investigators to enter the field of pediatric oncology; (4) incentives to encourage the development of drugs and biologics designed to treat pediatric cancers; (5) policies that encourage participation in clinical trials; (6) medical education curricula designed to improve pain management for cancer patients; and (7) enhanced education, services, and other resources related to late effects from treatment.

Latest Action: 06/06/2007 - Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S7185-7187)

Bill Text
A bill to amend the Public Health Service Act to improve the quality and availability of mental health services for children and adolescents. 6/6/2007--Introduced. Child and Adolescent Mental Health Resiliency Act of 2007 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services (the Secretary), acting through the Center for Mental Health Services, to provide for comprehensive state mental health plans that exclusively meet the mental health needs of children and adolescents. Requires the Secretary to provide for child and adolescent mental health early intervention and prevention services. Requires the Secretary of Education to: (1) provide for access to mental health and case management services in educational settings; and (2) develop guidelines that encourage schools to provide counseling and positive behavioral supports. Amends title V (Maternal and Child Health Services Block Grant) of the Social Security Act [...]

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Latest Action: 05/24/2007 - Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S6875)

Bill Text
A bill to revise and extend provisions under the Garrett Lee Smith Memorial Act. 5/24/2007--Introduced. Garrett Lee Smith Memorial Act Reauthorization Act of 2007 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to revise provisions requiring centers to provide appropriate information, training, and technical assistance on youth suicide to require such information, training, and assistance on suicide among all ages, particularly for youth. Reauthorizes appropriations for FY2008-FY2012 for research, training, and technical assistance centers related to mental health, substance abuse, and the justice system and suicide.Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to ensure that a state does not receive more than one grant or cooperative agreement for the development of youth suicide early intervention and prevention strategies at any one time. (Current law requires the Secretary to ensure that each state is awarded only one such grant or cooperative agreement.) Reauthorizes [...]

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H.R.2511 Sponsored by Bart Gordon
Latest Action: 05/24/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

Bill Text
To revise and extend provisions under the Garrett Lee Smith Memorial Act. 5/24/2007--Introduced. Garrett Lee Smith Memorial Act Reauthorization Act of 2007 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to revise provisions requiring centers to provide appropriate information, training, and technical assistance on youth suicide to require such information, training, and assistance on suicide among all ages, particularly for youth. Reauthorizes appropriations for FY2008-FY2012 for research, training, and technical assistance centers related to mental health, substance abuse, and the justice system and suicide.Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to ensure that a state does not receive more than one grant or cooperative agreement for the development of youth suicide early intervention and prevention strategies at any one time. (Current law requires the Secretary to ensure that each state is awarded only one such grant or cooperative agreement.) Reauthorizes appropriations [...]

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Latest Action: 06/25/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security.

Bill Text
To amend title 18 of the United States Code to require HIV testing of Federal prisoners about to be released, to direct the Attorney General of the United States and the Secretary of Health and Human Services to provide HIV/AIDS treatment for recently released Federal prisoners, and for other purposes. 5/24/2007--Introduced. After Care Act of 2007 - Amends the federal criminal code to require: (1) the Attorney General to provide for the testing of prisoners about to be released from a federal facility for the human immunodeficiency virus; and (2) courts to order defendants testing positive for the virus to accept HIV/AIDS treatment as a condition of supervised release and to notify any prospective sexual partner of HIV/AIDS status.Requires the Attorney General and the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish and maintain a program for HIV/AIDS treatment of prisoners for two years after release by the Bureau of Prisons.Prohibits individuals receiving [...]

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Latest Action: 05/21/2007 - Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.

Bill Text
To reduce health care costs and promote improved health by providing supplemental grants for additional preventive health services for women.

5/21/2007--Introduced.

WISEWOMAN Expansion Act of 2007 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to: (1) remove the limit on the number of states that may receive preventive heath services grants; (2) require a competitive review process; and (3) include among the uses for such grants health education, counseling, and interventions for behavioral risk factors and diseases. Authorizes appropriations.

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.2210 Sponsored by Diana DeGette
Latest Action: 05/08/2007 - Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.

Bill Text
To amend the Public Health Service Act to prevent and cure diabetes and to promote and improve the care of individuals with diabetes for the reduction of health disparities within racial and ethnic minority groups, including the African-American, Hispanic American, Asian American and Pacific Islander, and American Indian and Alaskan Native communities. 5/8/2007--Introduced. Diabetes Prevention Access and Care Act of 2007 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to: (1) conduct, coordinate, and support research and other activities with respect to pre-diabetes and diabetes in minority populations; and (2) conduct and support programs to treat diabetes in minority populations. Requires the Director of NIH, through the National Center on Minority Health and Health Disparities, to provide for: (1) health care professionals' mentoring; and (2) minority health professionals' participation in diabetes-focused [...]

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S.1283 Sponsored by Mark L. Pryor
Latest Action: 05/03/2007 - Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S5570-5571)

Bill Text
A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to improve the management of medical care, personnel actions, and quality of life issues for members of the Armed Forces who are receiving medical care in an outpatient status, and for other purposes. 5/3/2007--Introduced. Wounded Warrior Assistance Act of 2007 - Requires a member of the Armed Forces (member) in an outpatient status at a military medical treatment facility (facility) to be assigned a medical care case manager and a service member advocate, each of whom have completed a training program and curriculum for such management. Directs the Secretary of Defense to establish a: (1) Department of Defense (DOD)-wide Ombudsman Office; (2) toll-free hotline for reporting deficiencies in medical services and medical support facilities; (3) standardized training program and curriculum for military personnel and health care professionals involved in the disability evaluation system; and (4) pilot program to track and assist [...]

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Latest Action: 04/26/2007 - Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S5218)

Bill Text
A bill to provide for the provision by hospitals receiving Federal funds through the Medicare program or Medicaid program of emergency contraceptives to women who are survivors of sexual assault. 4/26/2007--Introduced. Compassionate Assistance for Rape Emergencies Act of 2007 - Prohibits any federal funds from being provided to a hospital under title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act or to a state, with respect to hospital services, under title XIX (Medicaid) of such Act, unless the hospital meets certain conditions related to a woman who is a victim of sexual assault, including that the hospital: (1) provides the woman with accurate and unbiased information about emergency contraception; (2) offers emergency contraception to the woman; (3) provides the woman such contraception at the hospital on her request; (4) provides the woman with risk assessment, counseling, and treatment for certain sexually transmitted infections; and (5) does not deny any such services [...]

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S.1013 Sponsored by Tom Harkin
Latest Action: 03/28/2007 - Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

Bill Text
A bill to amend title XIX of the Social Security Act to encourage States to provide pregnant women enrolled in the Medicaid program with access to comprehensive tobacco cessation services.

3/28/2007--Introduced.

Smoke Free Mothers and Babies Act of 2007 - Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to require coverage, without cost-sharing, of counseling and pharmacotherapy for cessation of tobacco use by pregnant women. Provides for an increased federal medical assistance percentage (FMAP) for tobacco cessation counseling services and medications.

Latest Action: 04/03/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

Bill Text
To establish and monitor medical holdover performance standards. 3/20/2007--Introduced. Wounded Warriors Joint Health Care Performance Metrics and Transparency Act - Assigns the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs responsibility for establishing performance standards for each step of the medical holdover patient process. Defines "medical holdover patient" as a member of the Armed Forces, including a member of the National Guard or other reserve component, who is undergoing medical treatment, recuperation, or therapy, or who is otherwise in medical hold or holdover status, for an injury, illness, or disease incurred or aggravated while on active duty.Directs the Secretary of Defense to require each military medical installation to perform a quarterly inspection based on the performance standards established by this Act. Requires the Assistant Secretary to provide reports on such inspections to the Secretary, the Inspector General of the Department [...]

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H.R.1588 Sponsored by Barbara Cubin
Latest Action: 03/29/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

Bill Text
To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide for the coverage of marriage and family therapist services and mental health counselor services under part B of the Medicare Program, and for other purposes.

3/20/2007--Introduced.

Seniors Mental Health Access Improvement Act of 2007 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to provide for coverage under Medicare part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance) of marriage and family therapist services generally, and particularly those provided in rural health clinics and in hospice programs, and mental health counselor services under part B of the Medicaid program.

Amends Medicare part C (Miscellaneous) to exclude such services from the skilled nursing facility prospective payment system.

Authorizes marriage and family therapists to develop discharge plans for post-hospital services.

S.921 Sponsored by Craig Thomas
Latest Action: 03/20/2007 - Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S3355-3356)

Bill Text
A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide for the coverage of marriage and family therapist services and mental health counselor services under part B of the Medicare program, and for other purposes.

3/20/2007--Introduced.

Seniors Mental Health Access Improvement Act of 2007 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to provide for coverage under Medicare part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance) of marriage and family therapist services and mental health counselor services generally, and particularly such services provided in rural health clinics and in hospice programs.

Amends Medicare part C (Miscellaneous) to exclude such services from the skilled nursing facility prospective payment system.

Authorizes marriage and family therapists to develop discharge plans for post-hospital services.

S.915 Sponsored by Elizabeth Dole
Latest Action: 03/19/2007 - Read twice and referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.

Bill Text
A bill to establish a pilot program to provide grants to encourage eligible institutions of higher education to establish and operate pregnant and parenting student services offices for pregnant students, parenting students, prospective parenting students who are anticipating a birth or adoption, and students who are placing or have placed a child for adoption.

3/19/2007--Introduced.

Elizabeth Cady Stanton Pregnant and Parenting Student Services Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of Education to establish a pilot program to provide grants to encourage eligible institutions of higher education to establish and operate pregnant and parenting student services offices for pregnant students, parenting students, prospective parenting students anticipating a birth or adoption, and students who are placing or have placed a child for adoption.

Authorizes grantees to to extend office services to pregnant or parenting employees and their spouses.

H.R.1538 Sponsored by Ike Skelton
Latest Action: 09/05/2007 - Senate ordered measure printed as passed.

Bill Text
To amend title 10, United States Code, to improve the management of medical care, personnel actions, and quality of life issues for members of the Armed Forces who are receiving medical care in an outpatient status, and for other purposes. 7/25/2007--Passed Senate amended.    (There are 3 other summaries) Dignified Treatment of Wounded Warriors Act - Title I: Wounded Warrior Matters - Subtitle A: Policy on Care, Management, and Transition of Servicemembers With Serious Injuries or Illnesses - (Sec. 111) Directs the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs (Secretaries) to: (1) jointly develop and implement a comprehensive policy on the care and management of members of the Armed Forces (members) who are undergoing medical treatment, recuperation, or therapy, are in medical hold or holdover status, or are otherwise on the temporary disability retired list for a serious injury or illness (recovering members); (2) jointly update the policy on a [...]

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S.884 Sponsored by Richard Durbin
Latest Action: 03/14/2007 - Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S3192-3193)

Bill Text
A bill to amend the Public Health Service Act regarding residential treatment programs for pregnant and parenting women, a program to reduce substance abuse among nonviolent offenders, and for other purposes. 3/14/2007--Introduced. Family-Based Meth Treatment Access Act of 2007 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to expand the grant program to provide residential substance abuse treatment to pregnant and postpartum women to include: (1) parenting women substance abuse treatment (including treatment for addiction to methamphetamine); and (2) outpatient treatment services. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to expand, intensify, and coordinate efforts to provide treatment for methamphetamine addiction to pregnant and parenting women.Requires the Secretary, acting through the Administrator of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, to award grants, cooperative agreements, or contracts to assist local jails and detention [...]

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S.845 Sponsored by Michael B. Enzi
Latest Action: 04/23/2008 - Signed by President.

Bill Text
A bill to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to expand and intensify programs with respect to research and related activities concerning elder falls. 4/8/2008--Passed House without amendment.    (There are 3 other summaries) (This measure has not been amended since it was passed by the Senate on August 1, 2007. The summary of that version is repeated here.) Safety of Seniors Act of 2007 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize the Secretary of Health and Human Services to: (1) oversee and support a national education campaign focusing on reducing falls among older adults and preventing repeat falls; and (2) award grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements to design and carry out local education campaigns. Allows the Secretary to conduct and support research to: (1) improve the identification of older adults who have a high risk of falling; (2) improve data collection and analysis to identify fall risk and [...]

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H.RES.232 Sponsored by Cliff Stearns
Latest Action: 03/12/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

Bill Text
Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives with respect to pregnancy resource centers.

3/9/2007--Introduced.

Expresses support for and commends the contribution of pregnancy resource centers, their staffs, and volunteers. Encourages Congress and federal and state agencies to provide assistance to such centers. Decries attempts to prevent such centers from serving women and men facing unplanned pregnancies.

Latest Action: 03/07/2007 - Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

Bill Text
A bill to amend titles XIX and XXI of the Social Security Act to provide States with the option to expand or add coverage of pregnant women under the Medicaid and State children's health insurance programs, and for other purposes. 3/7/2007--Introduced. Prevent Prematurity and Improve Child Health Act of 2007 - Amends titles XIX (Medicaid) and XXI (State Children's Health Insurance Program) (SCHIP) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to give states new options to cover: (1) low-income pregnant women; and (2) low-income legal immigrant pregnant women and children under Medicaid and SCHIP. Extends coverage under Medicaid of prescription drugs and counseling services to tobacco cessation medications to help pregnant women enrolled in the program quit using tobacco. Requires coverage of tobacco cessation counseling services for pregnant women, and exempts such services from cost-sharing charges. Gives states the option under Medicaid to: (1) provide family planning [...]

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Latest Action: 03/07/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Telecommunications and the Internet.

Bill Text
Expressing the sense of the Congress regarding bone marrow diseases.

3/6/2007--Introduced.

Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) individuals diagnosed with bone marrow diseases and their families should have access to a variety of treatment and counseling options; and (2) such families should be linked to support networks and counseling information services provided by nonprofit organizations like the Aplastic Anemia & MDS International Foundation.

Calls for the federal government to: (1) raise awareness about the importance of early detection of and proper treatment for such diseases; (2) provide adequate funding for research on such diseases; (3) engage in such public health initiatives as surveillance, education, and awareness of such diseases; and (4) continue to consider ways to improve health care services for such diseases.

H.R.1354 Sponsored by James P. Moran
Latest Action: 04/03/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

Bill Text
To amend titles 10 and 38, United States Code, to improve benefits and services for members of the Armed Forces, veterans of the Global War on Terrorism, and other veterans, to require reports on the effects of the Global War on Terrorism, and for other purposes. 3/6/2007--Introduced. Lane Evans Veterans Health and Benefits Improvement Act of 2007 - Makes a veteran who served on active duty during a period of war eligible for a mental health evaluation and hospital care, medical services, nursing home care, and family and marital counseling for any identified mental health condition, notwithstanding insufficient medical evidence to conclude that the condition is attributable to such service. Requires: (1) post-deployment medical and mental health screenings to be conducted within 30 days after a deployment; (2) each member, upon discharge, to be provided an electronic copy of all military records of such member; and (3) the Secretary of Defense to ensure appropriate [...]

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Latest Action: 03/28/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

Bill Text
To ensure dignity in care for members of the Armed Forces recovering from injuries. 3/1/2007--Introduced. Dignity for Wounded Warriors Act of 2007 - Requires each recovering servicemember who is assigned to a military barracks or dormitory to be assigned to one that is maintained at the highest service standard in effect for enlisted members of the Armed Forces. Requires at least semiannual inspections of, and appropriate repairs to, any such quarters, as well as alternate housing during periods of unremedied housing deficiencies. Outlines requirements to be implemented for recovering servicemembers and their families, including: (1) physical disability evaluation system changes; (2) supervising officer and caseworker support; (3) increased training for caseworkers and social workers on particular servicemember conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); (4) increased support services, including an Ombudsman for Recovering Servicemembers; (5) a prohibition [...]

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S.713 Sponsored by Barack Obama
Latest Action: 02/28/2007 - Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S2363-2364)

Bill Text
A bill to ensure dignity in care for members of the Armed Forces recovering from injuries. 2/28/2007--Introduced. Dignity for Wounded Warriors Act of 2007 - Requires each recovering servicemember who is assigned to a military barracks or dormitory to be assigned to one that is maintained at the highest service standard in effect for enlisted members of the Armed Forces. Requires at least semiannual inspections of, and appropriate repairs to, any such quarters, as well as alternate housing during periods of unremedied housing deficiencies. Outlines requirements to be implemented for recovering servicemembers and their families, including: (1) physical disability evaluation system changes; (2) supervising officer and caseworker support; (3) increased training for caseworkers and social workers on particular servicemember conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); (4) increased support services, including an Ombudsman for Recovering Servicemembers; (5) [...]

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H.R.1088 Sponsored by Marcy Kaptur
Latest Action: 06/05/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Higher Education, Lifelong Learning, and Competitiveness.

Bill Text
To establish a pilot program to provide grants to encourage eligible institutions of higher education to establish and operate pregnant and parenting student services offices for pregnant students, parenting students, prospective parenting students who are anticipating a birth or adoption, and students who are placing or have placed a child for adoption. 2/15/2007--Introduced. Elizabeth Cady Stanton Pregnant and Parenting Student Services Act of 2007 - Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) pregnant college students should not have to make a choice between keeping their baby and staying in school; (2) the pilot program under this Act will help institutions of higher education to establish offices that will operate independent of federal funding within five years after enactment of this Act; and (3) amounts appropriated to carry out other federal programs should be reduced to offset the costs of this Act. Directs the Secretary of Education to establish a pilot program [...]

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H.R.1030 Sponsored by Maxine Waters
Latest Action: 02/14/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

Bill Text
To amend the Public Health Service Act to establish a program to provide screenings and treatment for cancer to minority or underserved populations, and for other purposes. 2/13/2007--Introduced. Cancer Testing, Education, Screening, and Treatment Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make grants to qualifying health centers and nonprofit organizations to develop, expand, or operate programs to provide: (1) information and education on cancer prevention; (2) screenings for cancer; (3) counseling on cancer, including counseling upon a diagnosis of cancer; and (4) treatment for cancer. Requires the Secretary to give preference to applicants that: (1) have service populations that include a significant number of low-income minority individuals who are at-risk for cancer; (2) will emphasize early detection of and comprehensive treatment for cancer; (3) will provide comprehensive treatment services for cancer in its [...]

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H.R.1943 Sponsored by Maxine Waters
Latest Action: 09/26/2007 - Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Bill Text
To provide for an effective HIV/AIDS program in Federal prisons. 9/25/2007--Passed House amended.    (There are 2 other summaries) Stop AIDS in Prison Act of 2007 - Directs the Bureau of Prisons to develop, and draft regulations to implement, a comprehensive policy to provide HIV testing, treatment, and prevention for inmates in federal prisons and upon reentry into the community. Requires such policy to provide for: (1) testing of inmates upon intake and counseling; (2) pre-test and post-test counseling; (3) improvement of HIV/AIDS awareness and inmate education; (4) HIV testing of inmates annually or upon exposure to HIV; (5) HIV testing of pregnant inmates; (6) comprehensive medical treatment of inmates who test positive and confidential counseling on managing their medical condition and preventing HIV transmission to other persons; (7) protection of inmate confidentiality; (8) testing, counseling, and referral of inmates to health [...]

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H.R.840 Sponsored by Julia Carson
Latest Action: 04/13/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Housing and Community Opportunity.

Bill Text
To amend the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act to consolidate the housing assistance programs for homeless persons under title IV of such Act, and for other purposes. 2/6/2007--Introduced. Homeless Emergency Assistance and Rapid Transition to Housing Act of 2007 - Amends the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act to consolidate housing assistance programs for homeless persons. Requires the establishment of a community homeless assistance planning board for a geographic area to lead a collaborative planning process to design, execute, and evaluate programs, policies, and practices to prevent and end homelessness. Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to designate an entity to be a community board if it has engaged in local homeless housing and services planning and has applied for federal funding for homeless assistance prior to enactment of this Act. Instructs the Secretary to make available technical assistance to governmental [...]

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H.R.853 Sponsored by Joe Knollenberg
Latest Action: 08/01/2007 - Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR H9284)

Bill Text
To promote preventive health care for Americans.

2/6/2007--Introduced.

Wellness and Prevention Act of 2007 - Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to pay up to a specified amount of the medical education loans incurred by any physician who receives board certification in preventive medicine from FY2008-FY2012.

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide for a wellness program tax credit for employers that develop and implement a program that: (1) conducts health risk assessments for each program participant; (2) offers annually at least two preventive health screenings; (3) offers annual counseling sessions on at least three preventive health topics; and (4) includes as participants not less than 50% of full-time employees. Provides a tax credit for qualified employees that participate in their employer's qualified wellness program.

S.465 Sponsored by Bill Nelson
Latest Action: 01/31/2007 - Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance. (text of measure as introduced: CR S1445-1446)

Bill Text
A bill to amend titles XVIII and XIX of the Social Security Act and title III of the Public Health Service Act to improve access to information about individuals' health care options and legal rights for care near the end of life, to promote advance care planning and decisionmaking so that individuals' wishes are known should they become unable to speak for themselves, to engage health care providers in disseminating information about and assisting in the preparation of advance directives, which include living wills and durable powers of attorney for health care, and for other purposes. 1/31/2007--Introduced. Advance Directives Improvement and Education Act of 2007 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to provide for Medicare coverage of end-of-life planning and consultations as part of an initial preventive physical examination. Requires a service provider, Medicare Advantage organization, or prepaid or eligible organization to give effect [...]

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Latest Action: 01/31/2007 - Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S1442)

Bill Text
A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide for coverage of an end-of-life planning consultation as part of an initial preventive physical examination under the Medicare program.

1/31/2007--Introduced.

Medicare End-of-Life Care Planning Act of 2007 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to provide for Medicare coverage of an end-of-life planning consultation, including discussion of advance directives, as part of an initial preventive physical examination.

Latest Action: 02/02/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

Bill Text
To provide for comprehensive health insurance coverage for all United States residents, and for other purposes. 1/24/2007--Introduced. United States National Health Insurance Act (or the Expanded and Improved Medicare for All Act) - Establishes the United States National Health Insurance (USNHI) Program (the Program) to provide all individuals residing in the United States and in U.S. territories with free health care that includes all medically necessary care, such as primary care and prevention, prescription drugs, emergency care, and mental health services. Prohibits an institution from participating in the Program unless it is a public or nonprofit institution. Allows nonprofit health maintenance organizations (HMOs) that actually deliver care in their own facilities to participate in the Program. Gives patients the freedom to choose from participating physicians and institutions. Prohibits a private health insurer from selling health insurance coverage that [...]

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H.R.619 Sponsored by Nita M. Lowey
Latest Action: 01/22/2007 - Re