Latest Action: 09/23/2008 - Read twice and referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations.

Bill Text
A bill to address the impending humanitarian crisis and potential security breakdown as a result of the mass influx of Iraqi refugees into neighboring countries, and the growing internally displaced population in Iraq, by increasing directed accountable assistance to these populations and their host countries, facilitating the resettlement of Iraqis at risk, and for other purposes. 9/23/2008--Introduced. Iraqi Refugee and Internally Displaced Persons Humanitarian Assistance, Resettlement, and Security Act of 2008 - Expresses the sense of Congress concerning Iraqi refugees and internally displaced persons.Directs the Secretary of State, with respect to vulnerable populations in Iraq and with respect to countries containing a significant population of Iraqi refugees (including Jordan, Syria, Turkey, Lebanon, Egypt, and Iran), to provide such countries or appropriate international organizations and nongovernmental organizations with specified humanitarian assistance.Directs [...]

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Latest Action: 09/17/2008 - Read twice and referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations.

Bill Text
A bill to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Iraq and potential security breakdown resulting from the mass displacement of Iraqis inside Iraq and as refugees into neighboring countries. 9/17/2008--Introduced. Support for Vulnerable and Displaced Iraqis Act of 2008 - Directs the Secretary of State to develop a comprehensive regional strategy to address the mass displacement of Iraqis inside Iraq and as refugees into neighboring countries. Requires that such strategy: (1) address the challenges facing Iraqi refugees; (2) address the government of Iraq's responsibility to help meet the humanitarian needs of its citizens in Iraq and the region and related U.S. support; (3) assess the needs of vulnerable Iraqis in Iraq, especially internally displaced persons and Iraqi refugees in the region; (4) include the number of refugees from Iraq that the United States plans to resettle in the United States; (5) describe U.S. government steps to engage the international community [...]

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Latest Action: 07/18/2008 - Committee on Appropriations. Original measure reported to Senate by Senator Leahy under authority of the order of the Senate of 01/04/2007. With written report No. 110-425.

Bill Text
An original bill making appropriations for the Department of State, foreign operations, and related programs for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2009, and for other purposes. 7/18/2008--Reported to 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.) Department of State, Foreign Operations and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2009 - Makes FY2009 appropriations for the Department of State (Department) for: (1) administration of foreign affairs and diplomatic and consular programs; (2) the civilian stabilization initiative; (3) the Capital Investment Fund; (4) the Office of Inspector General; (5) educational and cultural exchange programs; (6) representation allowances; (7) protection of foreign missions and officials; (8) U.S. embassy security, construction, and maintenance; (9) emergencies in the diplomatic and consular service;[...]

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Latest Action: 07/16/2008 - Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR E1485)

Bill Text
To address the impending humanitarian crisis and potential security breakdown as a result of the mass influx of Iraqi refugees into neighboring countries, and the growing internally displaced population in Iraq, by increasing directed accountable assistance to these populations and their host countries, facilitating the resettlement of Iraqis at risk, and for other purposes. 7/15/2008--Introduced. Iraqi Refugee and Internally Displaced Persons Humanitarian Assistance, Resettlement, and Security Act of 2008 - Expresses the sense of Congress concerning Iraqi refugees and internally displaced persons.Directs the Secretary of State, with respect to vulnerable populations in Iraq (including internally displaced persons) and with respect to countries containing a significant population of Iraqi refugees (including Jordan, Syria, Turkey, Lebanon, Egypt, and Iran), to provide such countries or appropriate international organizations and nongovernmental organizations with specified [...]

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Latest Action: 06/20/2008 - Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.

Bill Text
Joining the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in observance of World Refugee Day and calling on the United States Government, international organizations, and aid groups to take immediate steps to secure urgently needed humanitarian relief for the more than 2,000,000 people displaced by genocide in the Darfur region of Sudan. 6/20/2008--Introduced. Reaffirms the historic commitment of the United States as a nation founded by refugees. Calls on: (1) the Department of State to support the refugee assistance efforts of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and of nongovernmental organizations; (2) the U.S. government to continue its international leadership role in response to the people of the Darfur region of Sudan who have been displaced by Sudan's genocide; and (3) the Department of State and the Department of Homeland Security to facilitate the resettlement of an appropriate number of Darfuris. Urges the parties to the [...]

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Latest Action: 04/30/2008 - Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.

Bill Text
To combat international violence against women and girls. 4/30/2008--Introduced. International Violence Against Women Act of 2008 - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to establish in the Department of State the Office of Women's Global Initiatives (which shall replace the Office of International Women's Issues) to coordinate U.S. government efforts respecting international women's issues. Establishes within the Department an Advisory Commission on International Violence Against Women. Directs the President to develop a comprehensive strategy to prevent violence against women and girls. Directs the Coordinator of the Women's Global Initiatives to ensure that foreign assistance programs incorporate measures to prevent and respond to violence against women and girls. Provides that U.S. training of foreign military and police forces incorporates training on prevention of violence against women and girls. Directs the Department and the [...]

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Latest Action: 05/07/2008 - Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S3930; text as passed Senate: CR S3930; text of measure as introduced: CR S3906-3907)

Bill Text
A resolution expressing the Sense of the Senate on humanitarian assistance to Burma after Cyclone Nargis. 5/7/2008--Passed Senate without amendment.    (There is 1 other summary) (This measure has not been amended since it was introduced. The summary of that version is repeated here.) Expresses the sense of the Senate: (1) expressing sympathy to and support for the people of Burma in the aftermath of Cyclone Nargis; (2) supporting President Bush's decision to provide emergency humanitarian assistance to Burma through nongovernmental organizations that are not affiliated with the Burmese regime; (3) in standing ready to appropriate additional funds to address dire humanitarian conditions in the aftermath of Cyclone Nargis; (4) calling upon the State Peace and Development Council to lift restrictions on humanitarian assistance and allow free access to the U.S. government's disaster assistance response team; and (5) stating that the United States [...]

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Latest Action: 04/24/2008 - Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

Bill Text
A bill to strengthen sanctions against the Government of Syria, to enhance multilateral commitment to address the Government of Syria's threatening policies, to establish a program to support a transition to a democratically-elected government in Syria, and for other purposes. 4/24/2008--Introduced. Syria Accountability and Liberation Act - States that U.S. sanctions, controls, and regulations relating to Syria shall remain in effect until the President certifies that Syria has ceased support for terrorism, has dismantled biological, chemical, or nuclear weapons programs and has committed to combat their proliferation, respects the boundaries and sovereignty of all neighboring countries, and upholds human rights and civil liberties. Imposes specified trade, assistance, and military sanctions, as appropriate, on persons or countries that transfer goods or technology so as to contribute to Syria's biological, chemical, nuclear, or advanced conventional weapons programs.[...]

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Latest Action: 04/17/2008 - Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.

Bill Text
To amend the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize the President to provide assistance to establish partnerships between businesses and postsecondary educational institutions in developing countries in Africa to increase economic freedom and competitiveness, promote civil society, and improve the quality of life in such countries. 4/17/2008--Introduced. Students in Business Development in Africa Assistance Act of 2007 [sic] - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize the President, through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), to provide assistance for partnerships between businesses and postsecondary educational institutions in developing African countries to increase economic freedom, promote civil society, and improve the quality of life. Expresses the sense of Congress that the President should provide an appropriate level of assistance through nongovernmental organizations, including non-profit organizations, that have [...]

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Latest Action: 04/02/2008 - Read twice and referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations.

Bill Text
A bill to establish a health and education grant program related to autism spectrum disorders, and for other purposes.

4/2/2008--Introduced.

Global Autism Assistance Act of 2008 - Directs the Administrator for the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to establish and administer a health and education grant program (Global Autism Assistance Program) to: (1) support activities by nongovernmental organizations and other service providers, including advocacy groups, focused on autism in developing countries; and (2) establish a "teach the teachers" program to train health and education professionals working with autistic children in developing countries.

Latest Action: 04/02/2008 - Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on Armed Services, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee

Bill Text
Expressing the need for a more comprehensive diplomatic initiative led by the United States, Iraq, and the international community.

4/2/2008--Introduced.

Expresses the need for a comprehensive diplomatic initiative led by the United States, the Republic of Iraq, and the international community to ensure the establishment of a cohesive government in Iraq.

Expresses condolences to the number of Iraqis who have been killed, displaced, or wounded.

Expresses gratitude to the coalition forces and other international supporters for their contribution and sacrifice in the efforts to bring peace to Iraq.

Recognizes that the U.S. government owes a debt of gratitude to the men and women who have served in Iraq and who now deserve comprehensive rehabilitation and assistance.

Latest Action: 07/30/2008 - Signed by President.

Bill Text
To authorize appropriations for fiscal years 2009 through 2013 to provide assistance to foreign countries to combat HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria, and for other purposes. 7/30/2008--Public Law.    (There are 4 other summaries) (This measure has not been amended since it was passed by the Senate on July 16, 2008. The summary of that version is repeated here.) Tom Lantos and Henry J. Hyde United States Global Leadership Against HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria Reauthorization Act of 2008 - Title I: Policy Planning and Coordination - (Sec. 101) Amends the United States Leadership Against HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria Act of 2003 (Act) to revise the provisions of the President's comprehensive five-year global strategy (and related report) to combat HIV/AIDS. Directs the Coordinator of United States Government Activities to Combat HIV/AIDS Globally (Coordinator) to: (1) commission a study by the Institute of Medicine [...]

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Latest Action: 02/26/2008 - Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.

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

2/26/2008--Introduced.

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

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

Latest Action: 03/05/2008 - Senate Committee on Foreign Relations discharged by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S1653)

Bill Text
A resolution calling for peace in Darfur. 3/5/2008--Passed Senate without amendment.    (There is 1 other summary) (This measure has not been amended since it was introduced. The summary has been expanded because action occurred on the measure.) Calls upon the government of Sudan and other signatories and non-signatories to the May 5, 2006, Darfur Peace Agreement to cease hostilities. Calls upon the government of Sudan to facilitate the deployment of the United Nations-African Union peacekeeping force, including any non-African peacekeepers. Urges all invited individuals and movements to attend the next round of peace negotiations without preconditions. Condemns: (1) intimidation or threats against camp or civil society leaders to discourage them from attending the peace talks; and (2) actions by any party that undermines the Darfur peace process. Calls upon all parties to the Comprehensive Peace Agreement to support [...]

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Latest Action: 02/14/2008 - Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.

Bill Text
Expressing the Sense of Congress on the Humanitarian Crisis in Iraq.

2/14/2008--Introduced.

Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) the Iraqi refugee crisis must be addressed before it becomes a major factor in the destabilization of Iraq and an increasing threat to U.S. security; and (2) the United States should support the Iraqi Red Crescent Organization in their work to provide humanitarian relief to the people of Iraq.

Latest Action: 02/14/2008 - Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.

Bill Text
To establish a health and education grant program related to autism spectrum disorders, and for other purposes.

2/14/2008--Introduced.

Global Autism Assistance Act of 2008 - Directs the Administrator for the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to establish and administer a health and education grant program (Global Autism Assistance Program) to: (1) support activities by nongovernmental organizations and other service providers, including advocacy groups, focused on autism in developing countries; and (2) establish a "teach the teachers" program to train health and education professionals working with autistic children in developing countries.

Latest Action: 02/06/2008 - Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on Armed Services, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee

Bill Text
Expressing the need for a more comprehensive diplomatic initiative led by the United States, Republic of Iraq, and international community.

2/6/2008--Introduced.

Expresses the need for a comprehensive diplomatic initiative led by the United States, the Republic of Iraq, and the international community to ensure the establishment of a cohesive government in Iraq.

Expresses condolences to the number of Iraqis who have been killed, displaced, or wounded.

Recognizes that the U.S. government owes a debt of gratitude to the men and women who have served in Iraq and who now deserve comprehensive rehabilitation and assistance.

Latest Action: 09/09/2008 - Considered under suspension of the rules. (consideration: CR H7869-7870)

Bill Text
Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the emergency communications services provided by the American Red Cross are vital resources for military service members and their families.

9/9/2008--Passed House amended.    (There is 1 other summary)

Expresses appreciation for the vital emergency communications services provided by the American Red Cross between military service members and their families during emergencies or other important events.

Latest Action: 12/19/2007 - Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on Armed Services, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee

Bill Text
Expressing the need for a more comprehensive diplomatic initiative led by the United States, Republic of Iraq, and international community.

12/19/2007--Introduced.

Expresses the need for a comprehensive diplomatic initiative led by the United States, the Republic of Iraq, and the international community to ensure the establishment of a cohesive government in Iraq.

Expresses condolences to the number of Iraqis who have been killed, displaced, or wounded.

Recognizes that the U.S. government owes a debt of gratitude to the men and women who have served in Iraq and who now deserve comprehensive rehabilitation and assistance.

Latest Action: 12/18/2007 - Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.

Bill Text
Urging the United States Government to initiate a diplomatic surge to foster security and stability in the Middle East by engaging international stakeholders and governments throughout the region to curtail destabilizing influences, help prevent the spread of violence, address humanitarian concerns, and enhance prospects for security, political, and economic progress in Iraq.

12/18/2007--Introduced.

Recognizes the effort of local community leaders in Iraq to promote reconciliation.

Commends the United Nations for re-engaging in Iraq.

Urges: (1) diplomatic efforts to engage Iraq's neighbors to assist in securing Iraq's borders and to prevent terrorist organizations from destabilizing the region; (2) the nations and international bodies that have pledged donations to Iraq to fulfill those pledges; and (3) actions to address the needs of Iraqi displaced persons.