Latest Action: 12/19/2007 - Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR 12/18/2007 S15936-15939; text as passed Senate: CR 12/18/2007 S15938; text of measure as introduced: CR 12/18/2007 S15923)

Bill Text
A resolution designating January 2008 as "National Stalking Awareness Month".

12/19/2007--Passed Senate without amendment.    (There is 1 other summary)

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

Designates January 2008 as National Stalking Awareness Month.

Urges national and community organizations, private businesses, and the media to promote awareness of the crime of stalking through observation of such Month.

H.R.4137 Sponsored by George Miller
Latest Action: 02/25/2008 - Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.

Bill Text
To amend and extend the Higher Education Act of 1965, and for other purposes. 2/7/2008--Passed House amended.    (There are 2 other summaries) College Opportunity and Affordability Act of 2008 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) to revise and reauthorize HEA programs. Title I: Title I Amendments - (Sec. 101) Revises the general definition of an institution of higher education (IHE) to include schools that: (1) admit students whose secondary education was conducted in a home school setting; (2) award degrees (not necessarily bachelor's degrees) that are acceptable for admission to a graduate or professional degree program; and (3) enroll students who will be dually or concurrently enrolled in a secondary school. Revises the definition of an IHE for purposes of title IV student assistance programs. Requires graduate medical schools located outside the country, that qualified as IHEs owing to their having a state-approved [...]

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S.2317 Sponsored by Patrick J. Leahy
Latest Action: 11/07/2007 - Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S14064)

Bill Text
A bill to amend titles 17 and 18, United States Code, and the Trademark Act of 1946 to strengthen and harmonize the protection of intellectual property, and for other purposes. 11/7/2007--Introduced. Intellectual Property Enforcement Act of 2007 - Authorizes the Attorney General to bring a civil action for copyright infringement in lieu of criminal proceedings. Directs the Attorney General to: (1) create an operational unit of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to assist in the investigation and coordination of intellectual property crimes; (2) implement a program to train FBI agents in the investigation and prosecution of such crimes; (3) assign federal prosecutors to Department of Justice (DOJ) offices in Hong Kong and Budapest to coordinate international enforcement of intellectual property laws; and (4) create a task force to implement a plan to investigate and prosecute international organized crime syndicates involved in theft of intellectual property.Authorizes [...]

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Latest Action: 10/25/2007 - Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S13451-13452)

Bill Text
A bill to fight crime. 10/25/2007--Introduced. Crime Control and Prevention Act of 2007 - Amends the federal criminal code, the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968, the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act of 1974, the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994, the Violence Against Women Act of 2000, and other federal laws to establish and reauthorize programs to prevent and control crime. Reauthorizes and expands the program for community-oriented policing services (COPS program). Authorizes the hiring of an additional 1,000 agents for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in FY2008-FY2012. Authorizes the hiring of additional Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agents.Establishes a National Commission on Law Enforcement and the Administration of Justice to study the role of law enforcement after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.Authorizes appropriations for FY2008-FY2012 for: (1) early Head [...]

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H.R.3887 Sponsored by Tom Lantos
Latest Action: 12/05/2007 - Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Bill Text
To authorize appropriations for fiscal years 2008 through 2011 for the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000, to enhance measures to combat trafficking in persons, and for other purposes. 12/4/2007--Passed House amended.    (There is 1 other summary) William Wilberforce Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act of 2007 - Title I: Combatting International Trafficking in Persons - (Sec. 101) Amends the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000 (TVPA) to include the Secretary of Education on the Interagency Task Force to Monitor and Combat Trafficking. (Sec. 102) Directs the Secretary of State to establish within the Department of State an Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking. (Current law authorizes such Office's establishment.) Revises responsibilities of the Director of the Office. Expresses the sense of Congress that the Secretary should locate the Office at the Department of State (Department) headquarters [...]

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Latest Action: 10/12/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security.

Bill Text
To amend the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994 to provide grants to prosecutors and law enforcement to combat violent crime.

9/18/2007--Introduced.

Providing Electronic Resources and Prosecutors Act of 2007 - Amends the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994 to include as required uses of grant funds under such Act: (1) the hiring of additional prosecutors to prosecute more cases and to reduce backlogs; and (2) the funding of technology, equipment, and training for prosecutors and law enforcement to increase accurate identification of gang members and violent offenders and to maintain databases with such information.

H.R.3384 Sponsored by Ben Chandler
Latest Action: 09/10/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security.

Bill Text
To expand the Project Safe Neighborhoods program, and for other purposes.

8/3/2007--Introduced.

Safe Neighborhoods Expansion Act of 2007 - Authorizes the Attorney General to expand the Project Safe Neighborhoods program to require each U.S. attorney to: (1) identify, investigate, and prosecute significant criminal street gangs operating within his or her district; (2) coordinate among federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies the identification, investigation, and prosecution of criminal street gangs; and (3) hire additional personnel to support the expansion of the program.

S.1946 Sponsored by Patrick J. Leahy
Latest Action: 12/10/2007 - Committee on the Judiciary. Reported by Senator Leahy with an amendment in the nature of a substitute. With written report No. 110-239.

Bill Text
A bill to help Federal prosecutors and investigators combat public corruption by strengthening and clarifying the law. 12/10/2007--Reported to Senate amended.    (There is 1 other summary) Public Corruption Prosecution Improvements Act of 2007 - Amends the federal criminal code to revise and expand prohibitions against bribery, theft of public money, and other public corruption offenses. (Sec. 2) Establishes a six-year limitation period for the prosecution of public corruption crimes involving bribery, extortion, theft of government property, mail fraud, and racketeering. (Sec. 3) Expands mail and wire fraud statutes to cover offenses involving any other thing of value (e.g., intangible rights and licenses). (Sec. 4) Modifies general venue rules for criminal prosecutions to allow prosecutions in any district in which an act in furtherance of an offense is committed.(Sec. 5) Reduces from $5,000 to $1,000 the threshold amount [...]

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H.R.3155 Sponsored by Steve Chabot
Latest Action: 08/10/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Courts, the Internet, and Intellectual Property.

Bill Text
To amend titles 17 and 18, United States Code, to strengthen the protection of intellectual property, and for other purposes. 7/24/2007--Introduced. Intellectual Property Enhanced Criminal Enforcement Act of 2007 - Makes copyright registration requirements applicable to only civil (not criminal) copyright infringement actions. Authorizes the court, in civil copyright infringement actions, to: (1) order the impounding of records documenting the manufacture, sale, or receipt of items; and (2) determine that parts of a compilation or derivative work constitute separate works in assessing statutory damages.Establishes criminal violations for any attempt or conspiracy to commit criminal copyright infringement, with the same penalties as prescribed for the offense.Deems the unauthorized importation or exportation of copies or phonorecords to be an infringement of the exclusive right to distribute, in certain circumstances.Includes within the definition [...]

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H.R.3156 Sponsored by Lamar Smith
Latest Action: 08/10/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security.

Bill Text
To control violent crime. 7/24/2007--Introduced. Violent Crime Control Act of 2007 - Amends the federal criminal code to increase or impose new criminal penalties for: (1) the use of firearms to commit a crime of violence or a drug trafficking crime; (2) interstate transportation in aid of racketeering; (3) using interstate facilities to commit murder-for-hire and other violent crimes; and (4) violent crimes and drug crimes committed by illegal aliens.Extends the limitation period for prosecuting violent crimes and crimes of terrorism. Death Penalty Procedures Improvement Act of 2007 - Revises death penalty hearing procedures and provisions for the implementation of the death sentence.Imposes a minimum mandatory prison term for possession of child pornography. Increases criminal penalties for sexual exploitation of children and child pornography.Proceeds of Crime Act of 2007 - Expands criminal forfeiture provisions to include certain crimes involving [...]

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S.1860 Sponsored by John Cornyn
Latest Action: 07/24/2007 - Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S9834)

Bill Text
A bill to control violent crime. 7/24/2007--Introduced. Violent Crime Control Act of 2007 - Amends the federal criminal code to increase or impose new criminal penalties for: (1) the use of firearms to commit a crime of violence or a drug trafficking crime; (2) interstate transportation in aid of racketeering; (3) using interstate facilities to commit murder-for-hire and other violent crimes; and (4) violent crimes and drug crimes committed by illegal aliens.Extends the limitation period for prosecuting violent crimes and crimes of terrorism. Death Penalty Procedures Improvement Act of 2007 - Revises death penalty hearing procedures and provisions for the implementation of the death sentence.Imposes a minimum mandatory prison term for possession of child pornography. Increases criminal penalties for sexual exploitation of children and child pornography.Proceeds of Crime Act of 2007 - Expands criminal forfeiture provisions to include certain crimes [...]

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H.R.3150 Sponsored by Ric Keller
Latest Action: 08/10/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security.

Bill Text
To increase and enhance law enforcement resources committed to investigation and prosecution of violent gangs, to deter and punish violent gang crime, to reform and facilitate prosecution of juvenile gang members who commit violent crimes, to expand and improve gang prevention programs, and for other purposes. 7/24/2007--Introduced. Anti-Gang Enforcement Act of 2007 - Amends the federal criminal code to: (1) prohibit certain criminal street gang crimes, including recruitment of persons into such gangs, participation in such gangs by committing two or more predicate gang crimes, and solicitation to commit a predicate gang crime; (2) impose or increase criminal penalties for committing certain violent crimes in aid of a criminal street gang or racketeering activity, for murder or other violent crimes while committing a drug trafficking crime, and for the use of interstate or foreign commerce facilities in the commission of two or more murders; and (3) provide for forfeiture [...]

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Latest Action: 08/10/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security.

Bill Text
To provide funding for multi-jurisdictional anti-gang task forces.

7/24/2007--Introduced.

Anti-Gang Task Force Act of 2007 - Directs the Attorney General to establish, staff, and fund anti-gang task forces, consisting of federal, state, and local law enforcement authorities, to coordinate efforts to combat criminal gangs and offenders.

H.R.3017 Sponsored by Judy Biggert
Latest Action: 08/10/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security.

Bill Text
To authorize additional appropriations for the Federal Bureau of Investigation to enhance its ability to more effectively stop mortgage fraud, and for other purposes.

7/12/2007--Introduced.

Stop Mortgage Fraud Act - Authorizes appropriations to the Department of Justice for FY2008-FY2012 for: (1) the employment of 30 additional agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and two additional prosecutors to coordinate prosecution of mortgage fraud cases with the offices of the U.S. Attorneys; and (2) the operations of the FBI interagency task forces in the areas with the 15 highest concentrations of mortgage fraud.

Latest Action: 08/10/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security.

Bill Text
To amend title 18, United States Code, to protect individuals performing certain Federal and federally assisted functions, and for other purposes.

7/10/2007--Introduced.

Internet Police Protection Act of 2007- Amends the federal criminal code to prohibit knowingly making restricted personal information about a covered official publicly available through the Internet. Defines "covered official" to mean a federal officer or employee, a public safety officer for a public agency that receives federal financial assistance, or a U.S. court officer, juror, or magistrate judge.

Makes it a defense to a prosecution that: (1) the defendant is an Internet service provider and did not knowingly participate in the offense; or (2) the covered official gave permission to make such information publicly available.

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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S.1729 Sponsored by Patrick J. Leahy
Latest Action: 06/28/2007 - Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S8698)

Bill Text
A bill to amend titles 18 and 28 of the United States Code to provide incentives for the prompt payments of debts owed to the United States and the victims of crime by imposing surcharges on unpaid judgments owed to the United States and to the victims of crime, to provide for offsets on amounts collected by the Department of Justice for Federal agencies, to increase the amount of special assessments imposed upon convicted persons, to establish an Enhanced Financial Recovery Fund to enhance, supplement, and improve the debt collection activities of the Department of Justice, to amend title 5, United States Code, to provide to assistant United States attorneys the same retirement benefits as are afforded to Federal law enforcement officers, and for authorized purposes. 6/28/2007--Introduced. Enhanced Financial Recovery and Equitable Retirement Treatment Act of 2007 - Imposes surcharges for unpaid criminal monetary penalties and for unpaid balances on money judgments obtained [...]

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H.R.2878 Sponsored by Artur Davis
Latest Action: 11/01/2007 - Subcommittee Hearings Held.

Bill Text
To amend titles 18 and 28 of the United States Code to provide incentives for the prompt payments of debts owed to the United States and the victims of crime by imposing surcharges on unpaid judgments owed to the United States and to the victims of crime, to provide for offsets on amounts collected by the Department of Justice for Federal agencies, and to increase the amount of special assessments imposed upon convicted persons; to establish an Enhanced Financial Recovery Fund to enhance, supplement and improve the debt collection activities of the Department of Justice; to amend title 5, United States Code, to provide to assistant United States attorneys the same retirement benefits as are afforded to Federal law enforcements officers, and for other purposes. 6/27/2007--Introduced. Enhanced Financial Recovery and Equitable Retirement Treatment Act of 2007 - Imposes surcharges for unpaid criminal monetary penalties and for unpaid balances on money judgments obtained by the [...]

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Latest Action: 11/15/2007 - By Senator Kennedy from Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions filed written report. Report No. 110-231.

Bill Text
A bill to extend the authorization of programs under the Higher Education Act of 1965, and for other purposes. 7/24/2007--Passed Senate amended.    (There are 2 other summaries) Higher Education Amendments of 2007 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) to revise HEA programs and to extend the authorization of appropriations for them through FY2013. Title I: General Provisions - (Sec. 101) Adds definitions of a critical foreign language, distance education, and poverty line. Provides that critical foreign languages are those contained on the list designated by the Secretary of Education in the Federal Register on August 5, 1985, but allows the Secretary to set language priorities according to the purposes of a specific program and national security, economic competitiveness, and educational needs. States that poverty line refers to the poverty line applicable to a family of the size involved. (Sec. 102) Revises [...]

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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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Latest Action: 06/28/2007 - Cloture on the bill not invoked in Senate by Yea-Nay Vote. 46 - 53. Record Vote Number: 235. (consideration: CR S8650-8651; text: CR S8650)

Bill Text
A bill to provide for comprehensive immigration reform and for other purposes. 6/18/2007--Introduced. Establishes specified benchmarks which must be met before the guest worker and legalization programs under this Act may be initiated respecting: (1) operational control of the the border with Mexico; (2) Border Patrol increases; (3) border barriers, including vehicle barriers, fencing, radar, and aerial vehicles; (4) detention capacity for illegal aliens apprehended crossing the U.S.-Mexico border; (5) workplace enforcement, including an electronic employment verification system; and (6) Z-visa (as established by this Act) alien processing.Establishes in the Treasury the Immigration Security Account to assist the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in meeting benchmark requirements.Sets forth border security and enforcement provisions, including provisions respecting: (1) personnel and asset increases and enhancements, including Shadow Wolves units; (2) a National [...]

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H.R.2669 Sponsored by George Miller
Latest Action: 09/27/2007 - Signed by President.

Bill Text
To provide for reconciliation pursuant to section 601 of the concurrent resolution on the budget for fiscal year 2008. 9/27/2007--Public Law.    (There are 5 other summaries) (This measure has not been amended since the Conference Report was filed in the House on September 6, 2007. The summary of that version is repeated here.) College Cost Reduction and Access Act - Title I: Grants to Students in Attendance at Institutions of Higher Education - (Sec. 101) Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) to repeal the formula for calculating an individual Pell grant which includes, in part, the sum of the student's tuition. (Thus eliminates the "tuition sensitivity provision" which currently prohibits maximum Pell grant awards to students attending low-tuition institutions of higher education (IHEs) even if their income is low enough otherwise to qualify for the maximum award.) Authorizes and appropriates $11 million for FY2008 [...]

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H.R.2574 Sponsored by Mark Udall
Latest Action: 07/12/2007 - Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR H7712)

Bill Text
To implement the recommendations of the Iraq Study Group.

6/5/2007--Introduced.

Iraq Study Group Recommendations Implementation Act of 2007 - Expresses the sense of Congress: (1) that the President should formulate a comprehensive plan to implement the Iraq Study Group recommendations; (2) respecting diplomatic efforts in Iraq; and (3) respecting redeployment of U.S. combat brigades not necessary for force protection and other specified duties by the first quarter of 2008.

States U.S. policy respecting: (1) security and military forces in Iraq; (2) strengthening the U.S. military; (3) police and criminal justice in Iraq; (4) the oil sector in Iraq; (5) improving assistance programs in Iraq; (6) budgetary preparation; and (7) conditions for continued U.S. assistance to Iraq based upon the government of Iraq meeting specified milestones.

Requires the President to report to Congress every 90 days respecting such policies' implementation.

S.1545 Sponsored by Ken Salazar
Latest Action: 10/02/2007 - Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S12428)

Bill Text
A bill to implement the recommendations of the Iraq Study Group.

6/5/2007--Introduced.

Iraq Study Group Recommendations Implementation Act of 2007 - Expresses the sense of Congress: (1) that the President should formulate a comprehensive plan to implement the Iraq Study Group recommendations; (2) respecting diplomatic efforts in Iraq; and (3) respecting redeployment of U.S. combat brigades not necessary for force protection and other specified duties by the first quarter of 2008.

States U.S. policy respecting: (1) security and military forces in Iraq; (2) strengthening the U.S. military; (3) police and criminal justice in Iraq; (4) the oil sector in Iraq; (5) improving assistance programs in Iraq; (6) budgetary preparation; and (7) conditions for continued U.S. assistance to Iraq based upon the government of Iraq meeting specified milestones.

Requires the President to report to Congress every 90 days respecting such policies' implementation.

H.R.2325 Sponsored by Louie Gohmert
Latest Action: 06/04/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security.

Bill Text
To provide adequate penalties for crimes committed against United States judges and Federal law enforcement officers, to provide appropriate security for judges and law enforcement officers, and for other purposes. 5/15/2007--Introduced. Court and Law Enforcement Officers Protection Act of 2007 - Amends the federal criminal code to: (1) impose mandatory minimum terms of imprisonment for homicide, manslaughter, and kidnapping crimes against federal judges and law enforcement officers; (2) allow federal judges, U.S. attorneys, and Justice Department employees to carry firearms; (3) increase penalties for assaults against U.S. employees and officers and impose mandatory minimum terms of imprisonment for assaults against federal judges or law enforcement officers; and (4) impose mandatory minimum penalties for retaliating against a federal judge or law enforcement officer on account of the performance of official duties by murdering, kidnapping, assaulting, or threatening a family [...]

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S.1379 Sponsored by Dianne Feinstein
Latest Action: 05/14/2007 - Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S6061)

Bill Text
A bill to amend chapter 35 of title 28, United States Code, to strike the exception to the residency requirements for United States attorneys.

5/14/2007--Introduced.

United States Attorney Local Residency Restoration Act of 2007 - Amends the federal judicial code to repeal authority of the Attorney General to assign a U.S. attorney or an assistant U.S. attorney dual or additional responsibilities that exempt such officer from the requirement that each U.S. attorney and assistant U.S. attorney reside in the district for which he or she is appointed.

S.1348 Sponsored by Harry Reid
Latest Action: 06/07/2007 - Considered by Senate. (consideration: CR S7271-7291, S7294-7296, S7298-7304, S7305-7308, S7309-7313, S7313-7322)

Bill Text
A bill to provide for comprehensive immigration reform and for other purposes. 5/9/2007--Introduced. Comprehensive Immigration Reform Act of 2007 - Sets forth border security and enforcement provisions, including provisions respecting: (1) personnel and asset increases and enhancements; (2) a National Strategy for Border Security; (3) border security initiatives, including biometric data enhancements and a biometric entry-exit system, document integrity, and mandatory detention of aliens apprehended at or between ports of entry; (4) Central American gangs; (5) cooperation with Mexico; (6) National Guard support on the southern border; and (7) extension of the Western Hemisphere travel initiative. Border Law Enforcement Relief Act of 2007 - Authorizes a border relief grant program for a tribal, state, or local law enforcement agency in a county: (1) no more than 100 miles from a U.S. border with Canada or Mexico; or (2) more than 100 miles from any such border but which [...]

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S.RES.178 Sponsored by Jeff Bingaman
Latest Action: 03/10/2008 - Resolution agreed to in Senate with amendments and an amended preamble by Unanimous Consent. (text: CR 3/11/2008 S1890-1891)

Bill Text
A resolution expressing the sympathy of the Senate to the families of women and girls murdered in Guatemala, and encouraging the United States to work with Guatemala to bring an end to these crimes. 3/10/2008--Passed Senate amended.    (There is 1 other summary) Expresses condolences to the families of women and girls murdered in Guatemala and recognizes the families' courage in seeking justice. Expresses the solidarity of the people of the United States with the people of Guatemala in the face of these tragic acts. Condemns the ongoing abductions and murders of women and girls in Guatemala. Urges the government of Guatemala to: (1) strengthen laws with respect to domestic violence and sexual harassment, improve the integrity of the prosecutorial and judicial systems, and provide the resources to enforce justice for crimes against women; and (2) hold accountable law enforcement and judicial officials who have failed to investigate [...]

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S.RES.153 Sponsored by Harry Reid
Latest Action: 04/17/2007 - Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S4621 text as passed Senate: CR S4621 text of measure as introduced: CR S4618)

Bill Text
A resolution making temporary appointments to the Select Committee on Ethics.

4/17/2007--Passed Senate without amendment.    (There is 1 other summary)

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

Designates temporary Majority party membership on the Senate Select Committee on Ethics.

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

Bill Text
To amend title 18, United States Code, to give investigators and prosecutors the tools they need to combat public corruption.

4/17/2007--Introduced.

Effective Corruption Prosecutions Act of 2007 - Amends the federal criminal code to: (1) extend to eight years the statute of limitations for certain public corruption offenses involving bribery, theft of government funds, mail fraud, and racketeering; and (2) permit interception of wire, oral or electronic communications in connection the crimes of theft of federal funds or bribery (federal program bribery) and include such crimes within the definition of racketeering for purposes of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Practices Act (RICO).

Authorizes appropriations for additional Department of Justice personnel to investigate and prosecute public corruption offenses.

H.R.1783 Sponsored by Rahm Emanuel
Latest Action: 05/13/2008 - Subcommittee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held.

Bill Text
To amend the Social Security Act to enhance the social security of the Nation by ensuring adequate public-private infrastructure and to resolve to prevent, detect, treat, intervene in, and prosecute elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation, and for other purposes. 3/29/2007--Introduced. Elder Justice Act - Amends the Social Security Act (SSA) to establish an Elder Justice program under title XX (Block Grants to States for Social Services). Establishes within the Office of the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) an Elder Justice Coordinating Council (EJCC). Establishes the Advisory Board on Elder Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation. Directs the Secretary to make grants to eligible entities to establish stationary and mobile forensic centers, to develop forensic expertise regarding, and provide services relating to, elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Directs the Secretary to provide incentives for individuals to train for, seek, and maintain [...]

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S.977 Sponsored by Ken Salazar
Latest Action: 03/23/2007 - Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Bill Text
A bill to amend chapter 11 of title 18, United States Code, to ensure United States attorneys are able to act impartially, and for other purposes. 3/23/2007--Introduced. Furthering the Independence of Federal Prosecutors Act of 2007 - Amends the federal criminal code to impose a fine and/or prison term of up to one year for intentionally coercing, pressuring, or attempting to influence the decision of a U.S. attorney to conduct a criminal investigation or pursue a prosecution of any person based upon that person's race, sex, national origin, political activities, or political beliefs. Requires the appointment of a special prosecutor for enforcement of this Act. Prohibits a federal government attorney, in determining whether to prosecute or take other action against an individual in a criminal matter, from considering: (1) the race, religion, sex, national origin, or political association, activities or beliefs of such individual; (2) the personal feelings of such attorney [...]

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H.R.1582 Sponsored by Adam B. Schiff
Latest Action: 04/20/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security.

Bill Text
To increase and enhance law enforcement resources committed to investigation and prosecution of violent gangs, to deter and punish violent gang crime, to protect law-abiding citizens and communities from violent criminals, to revise and enhance criminal penalties for violent crimes, to expand and improve gang prevention programs, and for other purposes. 3/20/2007--Introduced. Gang Abatement and Prevention Act of 2007 - Amends the federal criminal code to define "criminal street gang" and "gang crime" and to prohibit: (1) the commission of a gang crime or crime of violence to further the activities of a criminal street gang ; and (2) the recruitment of another person to join a criminal street gang. Increases criminal penalties for: (1) certain violent crimes in aid of racketeering activity; (2) possession of firearms by repeat offenders; and (3) crimes of violence and drug trafficking crimes committed by illegal aliens. Provides for criminal forfeiture [...]

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Latest Action: 03/15/2007 - Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.

Bill Text
Recognizing the contributions of all United States Attorneys, past and present.

3/15/2007--Introduced.

Honors the work of U.S. Attorneys and thanks David Iglesias, Daniel Bogden, Paul Charlton, Harry E. Cummins, III, Carol Lam, John McKay, Margaret Chiara, and Kevin Ryan for their service and contributions to the legal system.

Latest Action: 04/24/2008 - Subcommittee Hearings Held.

Bill Text
To amend the District of Columbia Home Rule Act to establish the Office of the District Attorney for the District of Columbia, headed by a locally elected and independent District Attorney, and for other purposes.

3/1/2007--Introduced.

District of Columbia District Attorney Establishment Act of 2007 - Amends the District of Columbia Home Rule Act to establish the Office of the District Attorney for the District of Columbia (DA).

Specifies the qualifications for the DA, including residence and domicile in the District. Prohibits the DA from engaging directly or indirectly in private practice.

Requires the DA to be elected to a four-year term on a partisan basis. Requires the Mayor to appoint the first DA, to serve until succeeded by an elected one.

States that nothing in this Act shall affect the authority of the Attorney General or the U.S. Attorney for the District to exercise jurisdiction concerning violations of federal laws.

H.R.1149 Sponsored by David Dreier
Latest Action: 03/19/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security.

Bill Text
To amend title 18, United States Code, to protect federally funded public safety officers.

2/16/2007--Introduced.

Justice for Public Safety Officers Act - Amends the federal criminal code to prohibit and impose enhanced criminal penalties for: (1) killing (or attempting or conspiring to kill) a federally protected safety officer (or former officer) while such officer is engaged in official duties or on the account of the performance of such duties; and (2) interstate or foreign flight to avoid prosecution, custody, or confinement for killing a federally protected safety officer.

Defines "federally protected safety officer" as a public safety officer for a public agency that receives annual federal assistance of more than $10,000. Includes within the definition of "federally protected safety officer" judicial officers, law enforcement officers, firefighters, chaplains, and members of a rescue squad or ambulance crew.

H.R.916 Sponsored by David Scott
Latest Action: 05/16/2007 - Received in the Senate. Read twice. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 149.

Bill Text
To provide for loan repayment for prosecutors and public defenders. 5/15/2007--Passed House amended.    (There are 2 other summaries) (This measure has not been amended since it was reported to the House on May 14, 2007. The summary of that version is repeated here.)John R. Justice Prosecutors and Defenders Incentive Act of 2007 - Amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to add a program for student loan repayment for prosecutors and public defenders. Defines "prosecutor" as a full-time state or local agency employee who: (1) is continually licensed to practice law; and (2) prosecutes criminal or juvenile delinquency cases, including an employee who supervises, educates, or trains other attorneys prosecuting such cases.Defines "public defender" as a licensed attorney who is a full-time state or local agency employee or a full-time employee of a nonprofit organization who provides legal [...]

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Latest Action: 06/05/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education.

Bill Text
To respond to the illegal production, distribution, and use of methamphetamines in the United States, and for other purposes. 2/8/2007--Introduced. Clean, Learn, Educate, Abolish, Neutralize, and Undermine Production of Methamphetamines Act or the CLEAN-UP of Methamphetamines Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of the Interior to carry out environmental cleanup and remediation programs involving specified lands that are contaminated with hazardous substances associated with illegal methamphetamine manufacture. Directs: (1) the Secretary of Transportation and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to designate as hazardous certain byproducts of the methamphetamine production process and expand penalties against laboratory operators; (2) the Administrator of the Drug Enforcement Administration to list byproducts likely to cause long-term environmental harm; (3) the Secretary of Labor, acting through the Occupational [...]

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H.R.893 Sponsored by Ted Poe
Latest Action: 03/01/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security.

Bill Text
To provide for loan repayment for prosecutors and public defenders.

2/7/2007--Introduced.

John R. Justice Prosecutors and Defenders Incentive Act of 2007- Amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to direct the Attorney General to assume the obligation to repay student loans for borrowers who agree to remain employed, for at least three years, as: (1) state or local criminal prosecutors; or (2) state, local, or federal public defenders in criminal cases. Allows a borrower and the Attorney General to enter into an additional loan repayment agreement, after the required three-year period, for a successive period of service which may be less than three years. Limits the amount paid under such program on behalf of any borrower to $10,000 per calendar year and $60,000 total.

H.R.880 Sponsored by J. Randy Forbes
Latest Action: 03/01/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security.

Bill Text
To amend title 18, United States Code, to reduce violent gang crime and protect law-abiding citizens and communities from violent criminals, and for other purposes. 2/7/2007--Introduced. Gang Deterrence and Community Protection Act of 2007 - Amends the federal criminal code to modify and expand prohibitions against criminal street gang activity, including forfeiture provisions.Revises penalties for: (1) interstate or foreign travel or transportation in aid of racketeering enterprises; (2) carjacking; (3) using interstate commerce facilities in the commission of murder-for-hire and other felony crimes of violence; (4) violent crimes in aid of racketeering activity; (5) murder and other violent crimes committed during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime; (6) using interstate commerce facilities to commit multiple murder; and (7) the use of firearms in crimes of violence and drug trafficking.Amends: (1) the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations [...]

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S.442 Sponsored by Richard Durbin
Latest Action: 04/10/2007 - Committee on the Judiciary. Reported by Senator Leahy with amendments. With written report No. 110-51. Additional views filed.

Bill Text
A bill to provide for loan repayment for prosecutors and public defenders. 4/10/2007--Reported to Senate amended.    (There is 1 other summary) John R. Justice Prosecutors and Defenders Incentive Act of 2007 - Amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to add a program for student loan repayment for prosecutors and public defenders. Defines "prosecutor" and "public defenders" to include individuals engaged in the supervision, education, or training of other prosecutors and public defenders. Includes within the definition of "public defender" full-time employees of nonprofit organizations who devote substantially all their time providing indigent criminal defense services and federal public defenders. Requires prosecutors and public defenders to prosecute or provide representation for juvenile delinquency cases.Directs the Attorney General to establish a program to assume the obligation to repay [...]

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S.456 Sponsored by Dianne Feinstein
Latest Action: 10/17/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Healthy Families and Communities.

Bill Text
A bill to increase and enhance law enforcement resources committed to investigation and prosecution of violent gangs, to deter and punish violent gang crime, to protect law-abiding citizens and communities from violent criminals, to revise and enhance criminal penalties for violent crimes, to expand and improve gang prevention programs, and for other purposes. 9/21/2007--Passed Senate amended.    (There are 2 other summaries) Gang Abatement and Prevention Act of 2007 - Title I: New Federal Criminal Laws Needed To Fight Violent National, International, Regional, And Local Gangs That Affect Interstate And Foreign Commerce - (Sec. 101) Amends the federal criminal code to expand prohibitions against criminal street gangs. Defines "criminal street gang" as a formal or informal group, organization, or association of five or more individuals: (1) each of whom has committed at least one gang crime; and (2) who collectively commit three or more [...]

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S.378 Sponsored by Patrick J. Leahy
Latest Action: 04/20/2007 - Received in the House.

Bill Text
A bill to amend title 18, United States Code, to protect judges, prosecutors, witnesses, victims, and their family members, and for other purposes. 4/19/2007--Passed Senate amended.    (There is 1 other summary) Court Security Improvement Act of 2007 - Title I: Judicial Security Improvements and Funding - (Sec. 101) Amends the federal judicial code to require the Director of the U.S. Marshals Service to consult with the Judicial Conference of the United States (Judicial Conference) on a continuing basis regarding the security requirements of the judicial branch.(Sec. 102) Amends the Ethics in Government Act of 1978 to: (1) authorize the Judicial Conference to allow redactions of personal information of family members of judges from financial disclosure forms filed by such judges; (2) extend through 2009 the authority of the Judicial Conference to redact certain personal information of judges from financial disclosure reports; and (3) require [...]

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Latest Action: 05/01/2007 - Mr. Sires moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution.

Bill Text
Expressing the sympathy of the House of Representatives to the families of women and girls murdered in Guatemala and encouraging the Government of Guatemala to bring an end to these crimes. 5/1/2007--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 condolences to the families of women and girls murdered in Guatemala and recognizes the families' courage in seeking justice. Condemns the ongoing abductions and murders of women and girls in Guatemala. Urges the government of Guatemala to recognize domestic violence and sexual harassment as criminal acts and encourages the government of Guatemala to investigate the killings of women, prosecute those responsible, and eliminate the tolerance of violence against women. Supports efforts to identify perpetrators and unknown victims through forensic [...]

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Latest Action: 01/07/2008 - Signed by President.

Bill Text
To amend title 18, United States Code, to protect judges, prosecutors, witnesses, victims, and their family members, and for other purposes. 1/7/2008--Public Law.    (There are 3 other summaries) Court Security Improvement Act of 2007 - Title I: Judicial Security Improvements and Funding - (Sec 101) Amends the federal judicial code to require the Director of the U.S. Marshals Service to consult with the Judicial Conference of the United States (Judicial Conference) on a continuing basis regarding the security requirements for the U.S. judicial branch.(Sec. 102) Authorizes the U.S. Marshals Service to provide for the security of the U.S. Tax Court.(Sec. 103) Authorizes additional amounts in FY2007-FY2011 for: (1) hiring deputy U.S. Marshals to provide security for judicial officers and U.S. attorneys; and (2) the Office of Protective Intelligence to provide secure computer systems.(Sec. 104) Amends the Ethics in Government Act [...]

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H.R.638 Sponsored by Bobby Jindal
Latest Action: 03/01/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security.

Bill Text
To amend the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994 to improve efforts to reduce gang activity and violent crime.

1/23/2007--Introduced.

Violent Crime Reduction Act of 2007 - Amends the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994 to: (1) authorize the Attorney General to designate certain areas in states with a high level of gang crime activity as high-intensity interstate gang activity areas and provide assistance to such areas; (2) provide for community-based justice grants to state and local prosecutors to hire additional prosecutors to process more violent crime cases and to fund technology, equipment, and training for prosecutors and law enforcement officials; and (3) require the Department of Justice Office of Justice Programs to award grants to establish state-wide databases to track criminals, arrests, prosecutions, and convictions.

H.R.605 Sponsored by Robin Hayes
Latest Action: 03/23/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Federal Workforce, Post Office, and the District of Columbia.

Bill Text
To amend title 18, United States Code, to provide an increased maximum penalty for telemarketing fraud targeting seniors, and for other purposes.

1/22/2007--Introduced.

Seniors Taking on Phony Marketers Act of 2007 - Amends the federal criminal code to increase from 10 to 15 years the additional term of imprisonment for telemarketing fraud aimed at individuals over the age of 55.

Authorizes appropriations for FY2008 for: (1) 50 new postal inspectors to investigate telemarketing fraud; (2) 30 new assistant U.S. attorneys to prosecute telemarketing fraud cases; and (3) public awareness and prevention initiatives to educate senior citizens about telemarketing fraud.

Latest Action: 03/27/2007 - Received in the Senate. Read twice. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 92.

Bill Text
To amend chapter 35 of title 28, United States Code, to provide for a 120-day limit to the term of a United States attorney appointed on an interim basis by the Attorney General, and for other purposes. 3/26/2007--Passed House amended.    (There are 2 other summaries) (This measure has not been amended since it was reported to the House on March 20, 2007. The summary of that version is repeated here.) Amends the federal judicial code to provide for a person appointed as U.S. attorney to serve until the earlier of: (1) the qualification of a U.S. attorney for such district appointed by the President (as under current law); or (2) the expiration of 120 days after appointment by the Attorney General. Authorizes the U.S. district court for the particular district, if such a 120-day temporary appointment expires, to appoint a U.S. attorney to serve until the vacancy is filled. States that this Act is the exclusive means for appointing [...]

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H.R.502 Sponsored by Henry Cuellar
Latest Action: 01/17/2007 - Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.

Bill Text
To amend the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize assistance to improve security and promote economic development in Mexico.

1/17/2007--Introduced.

Prosperous and Secure Neighbor Alliance Act of 2007 - States that it is U.S. policy to increase U.S. foreign assistance to improve security and promote economic development in Mexico, both of which are crucial to combat illicit drugs and drug-related violence and other criminal activities in Mexico and the United States.

Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to direct the President to provide assistance to improve security and promote economic development in Mexico by: (1) professionalizing Mexican law enforcement personnel; (2) providing technology to assist Mexican law enforcement personnel; (3) strengthening the Mexican judicial branch; (4) supporting anti-corruption programs in Mexico; and (5) reducing poverty through targeted funding to enhance social development in Mexico.

H.CON.RES.30 Sponsored by Ted Poe
Latest Action: 02/02/2007 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security.

Bill Text
Raising awareness and encouraging prevention of stalking by establishing January 2007 as "National Stalking Awareness Month".

1/11/2007--Introduced.

Urges national and community organizations, private businesses, and the media to promote, through National Stalking Awareness Month, awareness of the crime of stalking.

Latest Action: 01/26/2007 - Resolution agreed to in Senate without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S1244-1245 text as passed Senate: CR S1244-1245)

Bill Text
A resolution designating January 2007 as "National Stalking Awareness Month".

1/26/2007--Passed Senate without amendment.    (There are 2 other summaries)

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

Designates January 2007 as National Stalking Awareness Month.

Urges national and community organizations, businesses, and the media to promote, through observation of National Stalking Awareness Month, awareness of the crime of stalking.

S.214 Sponsored by Dianne Feinstein
Latest Action: 06/14/2007 - Signed by President.

Bill Text
A bill to amend chapter 35 of title 28, United States Code, to preserve the independence of United States attorneys. 6/14/2007--Public Law.    (There are 4 other summaries) (This measure has not been amended since it was reported to the Senate on February 12, 2007. The summary of that version is repeated here.)Preserving United States Attorney Independence Act of 2007 - Amends the federal judicial code to: (1) allow a person appointed as U.S. attorney to serve until the qualification of a U.S. attorney for such district appointed by the President, or the expiration of 120 days after appointment by the Attorney General, whichever is earlier; and (2) provide that, if an appointment so expires, the district court for such district may appoint a U.S. attorney to serve until the vacancy is filled.Applies this Act to any person serving as a U.S. attorney on the day before the enactment of this Act who was appointed by the Attorney General [...]

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S.118 Sponsored by Patrick J. Leahy
Latest Action: 01/04/2007 - Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S117-118)

Bill Text
A bill to give investigators and prosecutors the tools they need to combat public corruption.

1/4/2007--Introduced.

Effective Corruption Prosecutions Act of 2007 - Amends the federal criminal code to: (1) extend to eight years the statute of limitations for certain public corruption offenses involving bribery, theft of government funds, mail fraud, and racketeering; and (2) permit interception of wire, oral or electronic communications in connection the crimes of theft of federal funds or bribery (federal program bribery) and include such crimes within the definition of racketeering for purposes of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Practices Act (RICO).

Authorizes appropriations for additional