SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Common Sense Superfund Liability Relief Act of 1997''. SEC. 2. SMALL PARTY LIABILITY RELIEF UNDER SUPERFUND. (a) Liability Exemption.--Section 107(a) of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9607(a)) is amended as follows: (1) In paragraph (4), by striking ``by such person,'' and all that follows through ``shall be liable for--'' and inserting in lieu thereof the following: ``by such person-- from which there is a release, or a threatened release, that causes the incurrence of response costs, of a hazardous substance, shall be liable for--''. (2) By designating the text beginning with ``The amounts recoverable'' and ending with ``this subsection commences.'' as paragraph (5) and aligning the margin of such text with paragraph (4). (3) By adding the following new paragraph after paragraph (5): ``(6)(A) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) through (4) of this subsection, a person who does not impede the performance of a response action or natural resource restoration at a facility shall not be liable to the extent liability at such facility is based solely on paragraph (3) or (4) of this subsection, and the person arranged for disposal, treatment, or transport for disposal or treatment, or accepted for transport for disposal or treatment of only municipal solid waste or sewage sludge owned or possessed by such person, and the person is-- ``(i) the owner, operator, or lessee of residential property; ``(ii) a small business; or ``(iii) a small non-profit organization. ``(B) This paragraph shall have no effect on the liability of any other person.''. (b) Small Business Defined.--Section 101 of such Act (42 U.S.C. 9601) is amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph: ``(39) Small business.--The term `small business' refers to any business entity that employs no more than 100 individuals and is a `small business concern' as defined under the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 631 et seq.).''. SEC. 3. INNOCENT LANDOWNER PROTECTION UNDER SUPERFUND. (a) Environmental Site Assessment.--Section 107 of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9607) is further amended by adding at the end the following new subsection: ``(o) Innocent Landowners.-- ``(1) Conduct of environmental assessment.--A person who has acquired real property shall have made all appropriate inquiry within the meaning of subparagraph (B) of section 101(35) if he establishes that, within 180 days prior to the time of acquisition, an environmental site assessment of the real property was conducted which meets the requirements of paragraph (2). ``(2) Definition of environmental site assessment.--For purposes of this subsection, the term `environmental site assessment' means an assessment conducted in accordance with the standards set forth in the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Standard E1527-94, titled `Standard Practice for Environmental Site Assessments: Phase I Environmental Site Assessment Process' or with alternative standards issued by rule by the President or promulgated or developed by others and designated by rule by the President. Before issuing or designating alternative standards, the President shall first conduct a study of commercial and industrial practices concerning environmental site assessments in the transfer of real property in the United States. Any such standards issued or designated by the President shall also be deemed to constitute commercially reasonable and generally accepted standards and practices for purposes of this paragraph. In issuing or designating any such standards, the President shall consider requirements governing each of the following: ``(A) Interviews of owners, operators, and occupants of the property to determine information regarding the potential for contamination. ``(B) Review of historical sources as necessary to determine previous uses and occupancies of the property since the property was first developed. For purposes of this subclause, the term `historical sources' means any of the following, if they are reasonably ascertainable: recorded chain of title documents regarding the real property, including all deeds, easements, leases, restrictions, and covenants, aerial photographs, fire insurance maps, property tax files, USGS 7.5 minutes topographic maps, local street directories, building department records, zoning/land use records, and any other sources that identify past uses and occupancies of the property. ``(C) Determination of the existence of recorded environmental cleanup liens against the real property which have arisen pursuant to Federal, State, or local statutes. ``(D) Review of reasonably ascertainable Federal, State, and local government records of sites or facilities that are likely to cause or contribute to contamination at the real property, including, as appropriate, investigation reports for such sites or facilities; records of activities likely to cause or contribute to contamination at the real property, including landfill and other disposal location records, underground storage tank records, hazardous waste handler and generator records and spill reporting records; and such other reasonably ascertainable Federal, State, and local government environmental records which could reflect incidents or activities which are likely to cause or contribute to contamination at the real property. ``(E) A visual site inspection of the real property and all facilities and improvements on the real property and a visual inspection of immediately adjacent properties, including an investigation of any hazardous substance use, storage, treatment, and disposal practices on the property. ``(F) Any specialized knowledge or experience on the part of the landowner. ``(G) The relationship of the purchase price to the value of the property if uncontaminated. ``(H) Commonly known or reasonably ascertainable information about the property. ``(I) The obviousness of the presence or likely presence of contamination at the property, and the ability to detect such contamination by appropriate investigation. A record shall be considered to be `reasonably ascertainable' for purposes of this paragraph if a copy or reasonable facsimile of the record is publicly available by request (within reasonable time and cost constraints) and the record is practically reviewable. ``(3) Appropriate inquiry.--A person shall not be treated as having made all appropriate inquiry under paragraph (1) unless-- ``(A) the person has maintained a compilation of the information reviewed and gathered in the course of the environmental site assessment; ``(B) the person exercised appropriate care with respect to hazardous substances found at the facility by taking reasonable steps to stop on-going releases, prevent threatened future releases of hazardous substances, and prevent or limit human or natural resource exposure to hazardous substances previously released into the environment; and ``(C) the person provides full cooperation, assistance, and facility access to persons authorized to conduct response actions or natural resource restoration at the facility, including the cooperation and access necessary for the installation, integrity, operation, and maintenance of any complete or partial response action or natural resource restoration at the facility.''. (b) Cross Reference.--Section 101(35)(B) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 9601(35)(B)) is amended by inserting after ``all appropriate inquiry'' the following: ``(as specified in section 107(o))''. SEC. 4. PROSPECTIVE PURCHASER PROTECTION UNDER SUPERFUND. (a) Limitations on Liability.--Section 107 of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9607) is further amended by adding at the end the following new subsection: ``(p) Limitations on Liability for Prospective Purchasers.-- Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) through (4) of subsection (a), to the extent the liability of a person, with respect to a release or the threat of a release from a facility, is based solely on subsection (a)(1), the person shall not be liable under this Act if the person-- ``(1) is a bona fide prospective purchaser of the facility; and ``(2) does not impede the performance of any response action or natural resource restoration at a facility.''. (b) Prospective Purchaser and Windfall Lien.--Section 107 of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (as amended by subsection (a)) is further amended by adding after subsection (p) the following new subsection: ``(q) Prospective Purchaser and Windfall Lien.-- ``(1) In general.--In any case in which there are unrecovered response costs at a facility for which an owner of the facility is not liable by reason of subsection (p), and the conditions described in paragraph (3) are met, the United States shall have a lien on the facility, or may obtain, from the appropriate responsible party or parties, a lien on other property or other assurances of payment satisfactory to the Administrator, for the unrecovered costs. ``(2) Amount; duration.--The lien-- ``(A) shall be for an amount not to exceed the increase in fair market value of the property attributable to the response action at the time of a subsequent sale or other disposition of the property; ``(B) shall arise at the time costs are first incurred by the United States with respect to a response action at the facility; ``(C) shall be subject to the requirements for notice and validity specified in subsection (l)(3); and ``(D) shall continue until the earlier of satisfaction of the lien or recovery of all response costs incurred at the facility. ``(3) Conditions.--The conditions referred to in paragraph (1) are the following: ``(A) Response action.--A response action for which there are unrecovered costs is carried out at the facility. ``(B) Fair market value.--The response action increases the fair market value of the facility above the fair market value of the facility that existed on the date that is 180 days before the response action was commenced.''. (c) Definition of Bona Fide Prospective Purchaser.--Section 101 of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9601) is further amended by adding at the end the following: ``(40) Bona fide prospective purchaser.--The term `bona fide prospective purchaser' means a person who acquires ownership of a facility after the date of enactment of this paragraph, or a tenant of such a person, who can establish each of the following by a preponderance of the evidence: ``(A) Disposal prior to acquisition.--All active disposal of hazardous substances at the facility occurred before the person acquired the facility. ``(B) Inquiry.-- ``(i) In general.--The person made all appropriate inquiry into the previous ownership and uses of the facility in accordance with generally accepted good commercial and customary standards and practices. ``(ii) Standards.--The ASTM standards described in section 107(o)(2) or the alternative standards issued or designated by the President pursuant to that section shall satisfy the requirements of this subparagraph. ``(iii) Residential property.--In the case of property in residential or other similar use at the time of purchase by a nongovernmental or noncommercial entity, a site inspection and title search that reveal no basis for further investigation shall satisfy the requirements of this subparagraph. ``(C) Notices.--The person provided all legally required notices with respect to the discovery or release of any hazardous substances at the facility. ``(D) Care.--The person exercised appropriate care with respect to hazardous substances found at the facility by taking reasonable steps to-- ``(i) stop ongoing releases; ``(ii) prevent threatened future releases of hazardous substances; and ``(iii) prevent or limit human or natural resource exposure to hazardous substances previously released into the environment. ``(E) Cooperation, assistance, and access.--The person provides full cooperation, assistance, and facility access to such persons as are authorized to conduct response actions at the facility, including the cooperation and access necessary for the installation, integrity, operation, and maintenance of any complete or partial response action at the facility. ``(F) Relationship.--The person is not liable, or is not affiliated with any other person that is potentially liable, for response costs at the facility, through any direct or indirect familial relationship, or any contractual, corporate, or financial relationship other than that created by the instruments by which title to the facility is conveyed or financed.''.

Summary: Common Sense Superfund Liability Relief Act of 1997 - Amends the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 to absolve of liability for response actions a person who does not impede a response action or natural resource restoration to the extent liability is based solely on arrangement, transportation, or acceptance provisions relating to disposal or treatment of hazardous substances and such activities only involved municipal solid waste or sewage sludge possessed by the person and the person is: (1) the owner, operator, or lessee of residential property; (2) a small business; or (3) a small nonprofit organization. Adds provisions related to defenses to liability of an owner of after-acquired property, to deem a person to have made (under current law, "undertaken") appropriate inquiry into the property's previous ownership and uses if the person establishes that an environmental site assessment was conducted which meets specified requirements (compliance with an American Society for Testing and Materials standard or with standards issued by the President) and the person fulfills certain responsibilities concerning information compilation, exercise of appropriate care with respect to hazardous substances at the facility, and cooperation with those conducting response actions. Absolves from liability for response actions bona fide prospective purchasers to the extent liability at a facility for a release or threat thereof is based solely on ownership or operation of a facility. Gives a lien upon a facility to the United States for unrecovered response costs in any case in which there are such unrecovered costs for which the owner is not liable by reason of this section and the facility's fair market value has increased above that which existed 180 days before the action was taken.


TITLE I--HOMELESS VETERANS MATTERS SECTION 101. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Helping Homeless Heroes Act of 2011''. SEC. 102. ENHANCEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE SERVICE PROGRAMS. (a) Enhancement of Grants.--Section 2011 of title 38, United States Code, is amended-- (1) in subsection (b)(1)(A), by striking ``expansion, remodeling, or alteration of existing facilities, or acquisition of facilities,'' and inserting ``new construction of facilities, expansion, remodeling, or alteration of existing facilities, or acquisition of facilities''; and (2) in subsection (c)-- (A) in the first sentence, by striking ``A grant'' and inserting ``(1) A grant''; (B) in the second sentence of paragraph (1), as designated by subparagraph (A), by striking ``The amount'' and inserting the following: ``(2) The amount''; and (C) by adding at the end the following new paragraph: ``(3)(A) The Secretary may not deny an application from an entity that seeks a grant under this section to carry out a project described in subsection (b)(1)(A) solely on the basis that the entity proposes to use funding from other private or public sources, if the entity demonstrates that a private nonprofit organization will provide oversight and site control for the project. ``(B) In this paragraph, the term `private nonprofit organization' means the following: ``(i) An incorporated private institution, organization, or foundation-- ``(I) that has received, or has temporary clearance to receive, tax- exempt status under paragraph (2), (3), or (19) of section 501(c) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986; ``(II) for which no part of the net earnings of the institution, organization, or foundation inures to the benefit of any member, founder, or contributor of the institution, organization, or foundation; and ``(III) that the Secretary determines is financially responsible. ``(ii) A for-profit limited partnership or limited liability company, the sole general partner or manager of which is an organization that is described by subclauses (I) through (III) of clause (i). ``(iii) A corporation wholly owned and controlled by an organization that is described by subclauses (I) through (III) of clause (i).''. (b) Grant and Per Diem Payments.-- (1) Study and development of fiscal controls and payment method.--Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall-- (A) complete a study of all matters relating to the method used by the Secretary to make per diem payments under section 2012(a) of title 38, United States Code; and (B) develop an improved method for adequately reimbursing recipients of grants under section 2011 of such title for services furnished to homeless veterans. (2) Consideration.--In developing the method required by paragraph (1)(B), the Secretary may consider payments and grants received by recipients of grants described in such paragraph from other departments and agencies of Federal and local governments and from private entities. (3) Report.--Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report on-- (A) the findings of the Secretary with respect to the study required by subparagraph (A) of paragraph (1); (B) the method developed under subparagraph (B) of such paragraph; and (C) any recommendations of the Secretary for revising the method described in subparagraph (A) of such paragraph and any legislative action the Secretary considers necessary to implement such method. (c) Authorization of Appropriations.--Section 2013 of such title is amended by striking ``subchapter'' and all that follows through the period and inserting the following: ``subchapter amounts as follows: ``(1) $150,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2007 through 2009. ``(2) $175,100,000 for fiscal year 2010. ``(3) $217,700,000 for fiscal year 2011. ``(4) $250,000,000 for fiscal year 2012. ``(5) $150,000,000 for fiscal year 2013 and each fiscal year thereafter.''. SEC. 103. MODIFICATION OF GRANT PROGRAM FOR HOMELESS VETERANS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS. (a) Inclusion of Entities Eligible for Comprehensive Service Program Grants and Per Diem Payments for Services to Homeless Veterans.--Subsection (a) of section 2061 of such title is amended-- (1) by striking ``to grant and per diem providers'' and inserting ``to entities eligible for grants and per diem payments under sections 2011 and 2012 of this title''; and (2) by striking ``by those facilities and providers'' and inserting ``by those facilities and entities''. (b) Inclusion of Male Homeless Veterans With Minor Dependents.-- Subsection (b) of such section is amended-- (1) in paragraph (1), by striking ``, including women who have care of minor dependents''; (2) in paragraph (3), by striking ``or''; (3) in paragraph (4), by striking the period at the end and inserting ``; or''; and (4) by adding at the end the following new paragraph: ``(5) individuals who have care of minor dependents.''. (c) Authorization of Provision of Services to Dependents.--Such section is further amended-- (1) by redesignating subsection (c) as subsection (d); and (2) by inserting after subsection (b) the following new subsection (c): ``(c) Provision of Services to Dependents.--A recipient of a grant under subsection (a) may use amounts under the grant to provide services directly to a dependent of a homeless veteran with special needs who is under the care of such homeless veteran while such homeless veteran receives services from the grant recipient under this section.''. SEC. 104. MODIFICATION OF AUTHORITY FOR PROVISION OF TREATMENT AND REHABILITATION TO CERTAIN VETERANS TO INCLUDE PROVISION OF TREATMENT AND REHABILITATION TO HOMELESS VETERANS WHO ARE NOT SERIOUSLY MENTALLY ILL. Section 2031(a) of such title is amended in the matter before paragraph (1) by striking ``, including'' and inserting ``and to''. SEC. 105. PLAN TO END VETERAN HOMELESSNESS. (a) In General.--Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall submit to Congress a comprehensive plan to end homelessness among veterans. (b) Elements.--The plan required by subsection (a) shall include the following: (1) An analysis of programs of the Department of Veterans Affairs and other departments and agencies of the Federal Government that are designed to prevent homelessness among veterans and assist veterans who are homeless. (2) An evaluation of whether and how coordination between the programs described in paragraph (1) would contribute to ending homelessness among veterans. (3) Recommendations for improving the programs described in paragraph (1), enhancing coordination between such programs, or eliminating programs that are no longer effective. (4) Recommendations for new programs to prevent and end homelessness among veterans, including an estimate of the cost of such programs. (5) A timeline for implementing the plan, including milestones to track the implementation of the plan. (6) Benchmarks to measure the effectiveness of the plan and the efforts of the Secretary to implement the plan. (7) Such other matters as the Secretary considers necessary. (c) Consideration of Veterans Located in Rural Areas.--The analysis, evaluation, and recommendations included in the report required by subsection (a) shall include consideration of the circumstances and requirements that are unique to veterans located in rural areas. SEC. 106. EXTENSION OF CERTAIN AUTHORITIES RELATING TO HOMELESS VETERANS. (a) Health Care for Homeless Veterans.--Section 2031(b) of title 38, United States Code, is amended by striking ``December 31, 2011'' and inserting ``December 31, 2012''. (b) Centers for Provision of Comprehensive Services to Homeless Veterans.--Section 2033(d) of such title is amended by striking ``December 31, 2011'' and inserting ``December 31, 2014''. (c) Property Transfers for Housing Assistance for Homeless Veterans.--Section 2041(c) of such title is amended by striking ``December 31, 2011'' and inserting ``December 31, 2014''. (d) Advisory Committee on Homeless Veterans.--Section 2066(d) of such title is amended by striking ``December 30, 2011'' and inserting ``December 30, 2013''. SEC. 107. REAUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS FOR HOMELESS VETERANS REINTEGRATION PROGRAM. Section 2021(e)(1) of such title is amended adding at the end the following new subparagraph: ``(G) $50,000,000 for fiscal year 2012.''. SEC. 108. REAUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS FOR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR SUPPORTIVE SERVICES FOR VERY LOW-INCOME VETERAN FAMILIES IN PERMANENT HOUSING. (a) In General.--Section 2044(e) of such title is amended-- (1) in paragraph (1), by adding at the end the following new subparagraph: ``(D) $100,000,000 for fiscal year 2012.''; and (2) in paragraph (3), by striking ``2011'' and inserting ``2012''. (b) Technical Amendment.--Paragraph (1) of such subsection is further amended by striking ``carry out subsection (a), (b), and (c)'' and inserting ``carry out subsections (a), (b), and (c)''. SEC. 109. REAUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS FOR GRANT PROGRAM FOR HOMELESS VETERANS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS. Section 2061(c)(1) of such title is amended by striking ``2011'' and inserting ``2013''.

Summary: Helping Homeless Heroes Act of 2011 - Allows grants made by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) for homeless veterans' comprehensive services programs (outreach, rehabilitation, vocational counseling, and transitional housing assistance) to be used for the construction of new facilities. Prohibits the Secretary from denying applications for such grants solely on the basis that the grant entity proposes to use funding from other private or public sources, as long as such entity demonstrates that a private nonprofit organization will provide project oversight and site control. Revises eligibility: (1) under the grant program for entities serving homeless veterans with special needs, and (2) for treatment and rehabilitation of homeless veterans who are not seriously mentally ill. Includes all individuals caring for minor dependents (current law applies only to women caring for minor dependents) within the definition of "homeless veterans with special needs." Directs the Secretary to submit to Congress a comprehensive plan to end homelessness among veterans. Requires the plan to consider circumstances and requirements unique to veterans located in rural areas. Extends provisions concerning: (1) homeless veterans' health care to December 31, 2012; (2) centers for provision of comprehensive services and property transfers for housing assistance to December 31, 2014; and (3) the Advisory Committee on Homeless Veterans to December 30, 2013.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``National Geologic Mapping Reauthorization Act of 1996''. SEC. 2. FINDINGS. Congress finds that-- (1) in enacting the National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992 (43 U.S.C. 31a et seq.), Congress found, among other things, that-- (A) during the 2 decades preceding enactment of that Act, the production of geologic maps had been drastically curtailed; (B) geologic maps are the primary data base for virtually all applied and basic earth-science investigations; (C) Federal agencies, State and local governments, private industry, and the general public depend on the information provided by geologic maps to determine the extent of potential environmental damage before embarking on projects that could lead to preventable, costly environmental problems or litigation; (D) the lack of proper geologic maps has led to the poor design of such structures as dams and waste- disposal facilities; (E) geologic maps have proven indispensable in the search for needed fossil fuel and mineral resources; and (F) a comprehensive nationwide program of geologic mapping is required in order to systematically build the Nation's geologic-map data base at a pace that responds to increasing demand; (2) the geologic mapping program called for by that Act has not been fully implemented; and (3) it is time for this important program to be fully implemented. SEC. 3. REAUTHORIZATION AND AMENDMENT. (a) Definitions.--Section 3 of the National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992 (43 U.S.C. 31b) is amended-- (1) by striking ``As used in this Act:'' and inserting ``In this Act:''; (2) by redesignating paragraphs (2), (3), (4), and (5) as paragraphs (3), (4), (5), and (6), respectively; (3) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following: ``(2) Association.--The term `Association' means the Association of American State Geologists.''; and (4) in each paragraph that does not have a heading, by inserting a heading, in the same style as the heading in paragraph (2), as added by paragraph (3), the text of which is comprised of the term defined in the paragraph. (b) Geologic Mapping Program.--Section 4 of the National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992 (43 U.S.C. 31c) is amended-- (1) by striking subsection (a) and inserting the following: ``(a) Establishment.-- ``(1) In general.--There is established a national cooperative geologic mapping program between the United States Geological Survey and the State geological surveys, acting through the Association. ``(2) Design, development, and administration.--The cooperative geologic mapping program shall be-- ``(A) designed and administered to achieve the objectives set forth in subsection (c); ``(B) developed in consultation with the advisory committee; and ``(C) administered through the Survey.''; (2) in subsection (b)-- (A) in the subsection heading by striking ``USGS'' and inserting ``the Survey''; (B) in paragraph (1)-- (i) by single-indenting the paragraphs, double-indenting the subparagraphs, and triple indenting the clauses; (ii) by inserting ``Lead agency.--'' before ``The Survey''; (iii) in subparagraph (A)-- (I) by striking ``Committee on Natural Resources'' and inserting ``Committee on Resources''; and (II) by striking ``date of enactment of this Act'' and inserting ``date of enactment of the National Geologic Mapping Reauthorization Act of 1996''; (iv) in subparagraph (B)-- (I) by striking ``State geological surveys'' and inserting ``Association''; and (II) by striking ``date of enactment of this Act'' and inserting ``date of enactment of the National Geologic Mapping Reauthorization Act of 1996''; and (v) in subparagraph (C)-- (I) by striking ``date of enactment of this Act'' and inserting ``date of enactment of the National Geologic Mapping Reauthorization Act of 1996''; (II) by striking ``Committee on Natural Resources'' and inserting ``Committee on Resources''; (III) in clauses (i) and (ii) by inserting ``and the Association'' after ``the Survey''; (IV) by adding ``and'' at the end of clause (ii); and (V) by striking ``; and'' at the end of clause (iii) and all that follows through the end of the subparagraph and inserting a period; and (C) in paragraph (2)-- (i) by inserting ``Responsibilities of the secretary.--'' before ``In addition to''; and (ii) in subparagraph (A) by striking ``State geological surveys'' and inserting ``Association''; (3) in subsection (c)-- (A) in paragraph (2) by striking ``interpretive'' and inserting ``interpretative''; and (B) in paragraph (4) by striking ``awareness for'' and inserting ``awareness of''; and (4) in subsection (d)-- (A) in paragraph (1) by inserting ``Federal component.--'' before ``A Federal''; (B) in paragraph (2)-- (i) by inserting ``Support component.--'' before ``A geologic''; and (ii) by striking subparagraph (D) and inserting the following: ``(D) geochronologic and isotopic investigations that-- ``(i) provide radiometric age dates for geologic-map units; and ``(ii) fingerprint the geothermometry, geobarometry, and alteration history of geologic-map units, which investigations shall be contributed to a national geochronologic data base;''; (C) in paragraph (3) by inserting ``State component.--'' before ``A State''; and (D) by striking paragraph (4) and inserting the following: ``(4) Education component.--A geologic mapping education component-- ``(A) the objectives of which shall be-- ``(i) to develop the academic programs that teach earth-science students the fundamental principles of geologic mapping and field analysis; and ``(ii) to provide for broad education in geologic mapping and field analysis through support of field studies; ``(B) investigations under which shall be integrated with the other mapping components of the geologic mapping program and shall respond to priorities identified for those components; and ``(C) Federal funding for which shall be matched by non-Federal sources on a 1-to-1 basis.''. (c) Advisory Committee.--Section 5 of the National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992 (43 U.S.C. 31d) is amended-- (1) by striking subsection (a) and inserting the following: ``(a) Establishment.-- ``(1) In general.--There shall be established a 10-member geologic mapping advisory committee to advise the Director on planning and implementation of the geologic mapping program. ``(2) Members ex officio.--Federal agency members shall include the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency or a designee, the Secretary of Energy or a designee, the Secretary of Agriculture or a designee, and the Assistant to the President for Science and Technology or a designee. ``(3) Appointed members.--Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of the National Geologic Mapping Reauthorization Act of 1996, in consultation with the Association, the Secretary shall appoint to the advisory committee 2 representatives from the Survey (including the Chief Geologist, as Chairman), 2 representatives from the State geological surveys, 1 representative from academia, and 1 representative from the private sector.''; and (2) in subsection (b)(3) by striking ``and State'' and inserting ``, State, and university''. (d) Geologic Mapping Program Implementation Plan.--Section 6 of the National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992 (43 U.S.C. 31e) is amended-- (1) in paragraph (1) by inserting ``cooperative'' after ``national''; (2) by striking paragraph (3)(C) and inserting the following: ``(C) for the State geologic mapping component, a priority-setting mechanism that responds to-- ``(i) specific intrastate needs for geologic-map information; and ``(ii) interstate needs shared by adjacent entities that have common requirements; and''; (3) by striking paragraphs (4) and (5) and inserting the following: ``(4) a mechanism for adopting scientific and technical mapping standards for preparing and publishing general-purpose and special-purpose geologic maps to-- ``(A) ensure uniformity of cartographic and scientific conventions; and ``(B) provide a basis for judgment as to the comparability and quality of map products; and''; and (4) by redesignating paragraph (6) as paragraph (5). (e) National Geologic-Map Data Base.--Section 7 of the National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992 (43 U.S.C. 31f) is amended by striking subsection (b) and inserting the following: ``(b) Standardization.-- ``(1) In general.--Geologic maps contributed to the national archives shall have format, symbols, and technical attributes that adhere to standards so that archival information can be accessed, exchanged, and compared efficiently and accurately, as required by Executive Order 12906 (59 Fed. Reg. 17,671 (1994)), which established the National Spatial Data Infrastructure. ``(2) Development of standards.--Entities that contribute geologic maps to the national archives shall develop the standards described in paragraph (1) in cooperation with the Federal Geographic Data Committee, which is charged with standards development and other data coordination activities as described in Office of Management and Budget revised Circular A-16.''. (f) Annual Report.--Section 8 of the National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992 (43 U.S.C. 31g) is amended in the first sentence-- (1) by striking ``Committee on Natural Resources'' and inserting ``Committee on Resources''; and (2) by striking ``program, and describing and evaluating progress'' and inserting ``program and describing and evaluating the progress''. (g) Authorization of Appropriations.--Section 9 of the National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992 (43 U.S.C. 31h) is amended to read as follows: ``SEC. 9. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS. ``(a) In General.--There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out the national cooperative geologic mapping program under this Act-- ``(1) $24,000,000 for fiscal year 1997; ``(2) $26,000,000 for fiscal year 1998; ``(3) $28,000,000 for fiscal year 1999; and ``(4) $30,000,000 for fiscal year 2000. ``(b) Allocation of Appropriated Funds.-- ``(1) In general.--Of the amount of funds that are appropriated under subsection (a) for any fiscal year up to the amount that is equal to the amount appropriated to carry out the national cooperative geologic mapping program for fiscal year 1996-- ``(A) not less than 20 percent shall be allocated to State mapping activities; and ``(B) not less than 2 percent shall be allocated to educational mapping activities. ``(2) Increased appropriations.--Of the amount of funds that are appropriated under subsection (a) for any fiscal year up to the amount that exceeds the amount appropriated to carry out the national cooperative geologic mapping program for fiscal year 1996-- ``(A) for fiscal year 1997-- ``(i) 76 percent shall be allocated for Federal mapping and support mapping activities; ``(ii) 22 percent shall be allocated for State mapping activities; and ``(iii) 2 percent shall be allocated for educational mapping activities; ``(B) for fiscal year 1998-- ``(i) 75 percent shall be allocated for Federal mapping and support mapping activities; ``(ii) 23 percent shall be allocated for State mapping activities; and ``(iii) 2 percent shall be allocated for educational mapping activities; ``(C) for fiscal year 1999-- ``(i) 74 percent shall be allocated for Federal mapping and support mapping activities; ``(ii) 24 percent shall be allocated for State mapping activities; and ``(iii) 2 percent shall be allocated for educational mapping activities; and ``(D) for fiscal year 2000-- ``(i) 73 percent shall be allocated for Federal mapping and support mapping activities; ``(ii) 25 percent shall be allocated for State mapping activities; and ``(iii) 2 percent shall be allocated for educational mapping activities.''. Passed the House of Representatives July 30, 1996. Attest: ROBIN H. CARLE, Clerk.

Summary: National Geologic Mapping Reauthorization Act of 1996 - Amends the National Geologic Mapping Act of 1992 to establish a national cooperative geologic mapping program between the U.S. Geological Survey and State geological surveys. Establishes a geologic mapping advisory committee to advise the Director of the U.S. Geological Survey on planning and implementation of the geological mapping program. Authorizes appropriations.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Troop Talent Act of 2013''. SEC. 2. FINDINGS. Congress makes the following findings: (1) According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate for recent veterans of military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan was 9.4 percent in February 2013, compared with 7.6 percent in February 2012. (2) With the unemployment rate among such veterans higher than the national average and the number of veterans receiving unemployment benefits doubling since 2002, there is a significant need to assist members of the Armed Forces as they transition to the civilian workforce. (3) In order to remain competitive in the civilian employment market, members of the Armed Forces and veterans require information about how their military skill sets translate to the requirements of the civilian workforce. Members of the Armed Forces currently receive insufficient or inadequate information during their training for military occupational specialties on translating skills obtained during such training to civilian occupations and credentials. (4) In addition, there is a need for enhanced access by accredited credentialing agencies to military training curricula in order to facilitate and enhance the correlation between military training and applicable civilian credentialing courses and exams. (5) The information technology sector is one of the fastest growing industries, with tremendous job growth and demand for talented, qualified individuals. The information technology sector has an unemployment rate of 3.5 percent according to a Bureau of Labor Statistics report from February 2013. (6) The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a need for 110,000 computer support specialists over the next decade. Currently, the size of the information technology workforce in the Armed Forces is about 160,000 members. SEC. 3. ENHANCEMENT OF MECHANISMS TO CORRELATE SKILLS AND TRAINING FOR MILITARY OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTIES WITH SKILLS AND TRAINING REQUIRED FOR CIVILIAN CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES. (a) Improvement of Information Available to Members of the Armed Forces About Correlation.-- (1) In general.--The Secretaries of the military departments, in coordination with the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness, shall, to the maximum extent practicable, make information on civilian credentialing opportunities available to members of the Armed Forces beginning with, and at every stage of, training of members for military occupational specialties, in order to permit members-- (A) to evaluate the extent to which such training correlates with the skills and training required in connection with various civilian certifications and licenses; and (B) to assess the suitability of such training for obtaining or pursuing such civilian certifications and licenses. (2) Coordination with transition goals plans success program.--Information shall be made available under paragraph (1) in a manner consistent with the Transition Goals Plans Success (GPS) program. (3) Types of information.--The information made available under paragraph (1) shall include, but not be limited to, the following: (A) Information on the civilian occupational equivalents of military occupational specialties (MOS). (B) Information on civilian license or certification requirements, including examination requirements. (C) Information on the availability and opportunities for use of educational benefits available to members of the Armed Forces, as appropriate, corresponding training, or continuing education that leads to a certification exam in order to provide a pathway to credentialing opportunities. (4) Use and adaptation of certain programs.--In making information available under paragraph (1), the Secretaries of the military departments may use and adapt appropriate portions of the Credentialing Opportunities On-Line (COOL) programs of the Army and the Navy and the Credentialing and Educational Research Tool (CERT) of the Air Force. (b) Improvement of Access of Accredited Civilian Credentialing Agencies to Military Training Content.-- (1) In general.--The Secretaries of the military departments, in coordination with the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness, shall, to the maximum extent practicable consistent with national security requirements, make available to accredited civilian credentialing agencies that issue certifications or licenses, upon request of such agencies, information such as military course training curricula, syllabi, and materials, levels of military advancement attained, and professional skills developed. (2) Central repository.--The actions taken pursuant to paragraph (1) may include the establishment of a central repository of information on training and training materials provided members in connection with military occupational specialties that is readily accessible by accredited civilian credentialing agencies described in that paragraph in order to meet requests described in that paragraph. SEC. 4. USE OF EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE FOR COURSES IN PURSUIT OF CIVILIAN CERTIFICATIONS OR LICENSES. (a) Courses Under Department of Defense Educational Assistance Authorities.-- (1) In general.--Chapter 101 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 2015 the following new section: ``Sec. 2015a. Civilian certifications and licenses: use of educational assistance for courses in pursuit of civilian certifications or licenses ``(a) Limitation on Use of Assistance.--In the case of a member of the armed forces who is enrolled in an educational institution in a State for purposes of obtaining employment in an occupation or profession requiring the approval or licensure of a board or agency of that State, educational assistance specified in subsection (b) may be used by the member for a course offered by the educational institution that is a required element of the curriculum to be satisfied to obtain employment in that occupation or profession only if-- ``(1) the successful completion of the curriculum fully qualifies a student to-- ``(A) take any examination required for entry into the occupation or profession, including satisfying any State or professionally mandated programmatic and specialized accreditation requirements; and ``(B) be certified or licensed or meet any other academically related pre-conditions that are required for entry into the occupation or profession; and ``(2) in the case of State licensing or professionally mandated requirements for entry into the occupation or profession that require specialized accreditation, the curriculum meets the requirement for specialized accreditation through its accreditation or pre-accreditation by an accrediting agency or association recognized by the Secretary of Education or designated by that State as a reliable authority as to the quality or training offered by the institution in that program. ``(b) Covered Educational Assistance.--The educational assistance specified in this subsection is educational assistance as follows: ``(1) Educational assistance for members of the armed forces under section 2007 and 2015 of this title. ``(2) Educational assistance for persons enlisting for active duty under chapter 106A of this title. ``(3) Educational assistance for members of the armed forces held as captives under section 2183 of this title. ``(4) Educational assistance for members of the Selected Reserve under chapter 1606 of this title. ``(5) Educational assistance for reserve component members supporting contingency operations and other operations under chapter 1607 of this title. ``(6) Such other educational assistance provided members of the armed forces under the laws administered by the Secretary of Defense or the Secretaries of the military departments as the Secretary of Defense shall designate for purposes of this section.''. (2) Clerical amendment.--The table of sections at the beginning of chapter 101 of such title is amended by inserting after the item relating to section 2015 the following new item: ``2015a. Civilian certifications and licenses: use of educational assistance for courses in pursuit of civilian certifications or licenses.''. (b) Courses Under Educational Assistance Authorities Administered by Secretary of Veterans Affairs.--Section 3679 of title 38, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection: ``(c) A course offered by an educational institution in a State that is a required element of the curriculum to be satisfied to obtain employment in an occupation or profession requiring the approval or licensure of a board or agency of that State may be treated as approved for purposes of this chapter by an individual seeking to obtain employment in that occupation or profession only if-- ``(1) the successful completion of the curriculum fully qualifies a student to-- ``(A) take any examination required for entry into the occupation or profession, including satisfying any State or professionally mandated programmatic and specialized accreditation requirements; and ``(B) be certified or licensed or meet any other academically related pre-conditions that are required for entry into the occupation or profession; and ``(2) in the case of State licensing or professionally mandated requirements for entry into the occupation or profession that require specialized accreditation, the curriculum meets the requirement for specialized accreditation through its accreditation or pre-accreditation by an accrediting agency or association recognized by the Secretary of Education or designated by that State as a reliable authority as to the quality or training offered by the institution in that program.''. (c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall take effect on August 1, 2014, and shall apply with respect to courses pursued on or after that date. SEC. 5. COVERAGE OF MILITARY OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTIES RELATING TO MILITARY INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY UNDER PILOT PROGRAM ON RECEIPT OF CIVILIAN CREDENTIALS FOR SKILLS REQUIRED FOR MILITARY OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTIES. The military occupational specialties designated for purposes of the pilot program on receipt of civilian credentials for skills required for military occupational specialties under section 558 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2012 (10 U.S.C. 2015 note) shall include military occupational specialties relating to the military information technology workforce. SEC. 6. REVIVAL OF PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATION AND LICENSURE ADVISORY COMMITTEE OF THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS. (a) In General.--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall reestablish the Professional Certification and Licensure Advisory Committee of the Department of Veterans Affairs provided for under section 3689(e) of title 38, United States Code. The Committee shall be reestablished in accordance with the provisions of such section 3689(e), as amended by subsection (b), and shall carry out its duties in conformance with, and subject to the requirements of such section, as so amended. (b) Modification of Authorities and Requirements.--Section 3689(e) of title 38, United States Code, is amended-- (1) in paragraph (2)-- (A) by inserting ``(A)'' after ``(2)''; and (B) by adding at the end the following new subparagraph: ``(B) In addition to the duties under subparagraph (A), the Committee shall-- ``(i) develop, in coordination with other appropriate agencies, guidance to be used by the Department or other entities to perform periodic audits of licensure and certification programs to ensure the highest quality education is available to veterans and members of the Armed Forces; and ``(ii) develop, in coordination with the Department of Defense, appropriate certification agencies, and other appropriate non-profit organizations, a plan to improve outreach to veterans and members of the Armed Forces on the importance of licensing and certification, as well as educational benefits available to them.''; (2) in paragraph (3)(B), by striking ``and the Secretary of Defense'' and inserting ``the Secretary of Defense, and the Secretary of Education''; (3) in paragraph (4), by striking subparagraph (B) and inserting the following new subparagraph: ``(B) The Committee shall meet with such frequency as the Committee determines appropriate.''; and (4) in paragraph (5), by striking ``December 31, 2006'' and inserting ``December 31, 2019''. (c) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the reestablishment of the Professional Certification and Licensure Advisory Committee of the Department of Veterans Affairs pursuant to this section, the Committee shall submit to Congress a report setting forth an assessment of the feasibility and advisability of permitting members of the Armed Forces to use educational assistance to which they are entitled under chapters 30 and 33 of title 38, United States Code, to obtain or pursue civilian employment certifications or licenses without the use of such assistance for that purpose being charged against the entitlement of such members to such educational assistance.

Summary: Troop Talent Act of 2013 - Directs the Secretaries of the military departments, to the maximum extent practicable, to make information on civilian credentialing opportunities available to members of the Armed Forces (members) beginning with, and at every stage of, their training for military occupational specialities, in order to permit such members to: (1) evaluate the extent to which such training correlates with skills and training required for various civilian certifications and licenses, and (2) assess the suitability of such training for obtaining and pursuing such certifications and licenses. Requires the information made available to: (1) be consistent with the Transition Goals Plans Success program, and (2) include information on the civilian occupational equivalents of military occupational specialties. Requires such Secretaries to make available to civilian credentialing agencies specified information on the content of military training provided to members. Allows members or veterans to use educational assistance provided through the Department of Defense (DOD) or the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in pursuit of a civilian certification or license only if the successful completion of a curriculum fully qualifies such student to take the appropriate examination and be certified or licensed to meet any other academic conditions required for entry into that occupation or profession. Requires the military occupational specialties designated for a military skills to civilian credentialing pilot program under the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2012 to include those specialties relating to the military information technology workforce. Directs the VA Secretary to reestablish the Professional Certification and Licensure Advisory Committee (under current law, terminated on December 31, 2006). Provides additional Committee duties, including the development of: (1) guidance for audits of licensure and certification programs in order to ensure high-quality education to members and veterans, and (2) a plan to improve outreach to members and veterans on the importance of licensing and certification and the availability of educational benefits.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Biofuels Research and Development Enhancement Act'' . SEC. 2. BIOFUELS AND BIOREFINERY INFORMATION CENTER. (a) In General.--The Secretary of Energy (in this Act referred to as the ``Secretary''), in cooperation with the Secretary of Agriculture, shall establish an information center to make available to interested parties information on research, development, and commercial application of technologies related to biofuels and biorefineries, including-- (1) biochemical and thermochemical conversion technologies capable of making fuels from lignocellulosic feedstocks; (2) biotechnology processes capable of making biofuels with an emphasis on development of biorefinery technologies using enzyme-based processing systems; and (3) other advanced processes and technologies that will enable the development of biofuels. (b) Administration.--In administering the biofuels and biorefinery information center, the Secretary shall-- (1) continually update information provided by the center; (2) make information available to interested parties on the process for establishing a biorefinery; and (3) make information and assistance provided by the center available through a toll-free telephone number and website. SEC. 3. BIOFUELS AND ADVANCED BIOFUELS INFRASTRUCTURE. Section 932 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 16232) is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection: ``(f) Biofuels and Advanced Biofuels Infrastructure.-- ``(1) In general.--The Secretary shall carry out a program of research, development, and demonstration as it relates existing transportation fuel distribution infrastructure and new alternative distribution infrastructure. The program shall focus on the physical and chemical properties of biofuels and efforts to prevent or mitigate against adverse impacts of those properties in the following areas: ``(A) Corrosion of metal, plastic, rubber, cork, fiberglass, glues, or any other material used in pipes and storage tanks. ``(B) Dissolving of storage tank sediments. ``(C) Clogging of filters. ``(D) Contamination from water or other adulterants or pollutants. ``(E) Poor flow properties related to low temperatures. ``(F) Oxidative and thermal instability in long- term storage and use. ``(G) Increased volatile emissions. ``(H) Microbial contamination. ``(I) Problems associated with electrical conductivity. ``(J) Increased nitrogen oxide emissions.''. SEC. 4. BIODIESEL. Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report on any research and development challenges inherent in increasing to 5 percent the proportion of diesel fuel sold in the United States that is biodiesel (as defined in section 757 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 16105)). SEC. 5. BIORESEARCH CENTERS FOR SYSTEMS BIOLOGY PROGRAM. Section 977(a)(1) of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 16317(a)(1)) is amended by inserting before the period at the end the following: ``, including the establishment of at least 11 bioresearch centers of varying sizes, as appropriate, that focus on biofuels, of which at least 2 centers shall be located in each of the 4 Petroleum Administration for Defense Districts with no subdistricts and at least 1 center shall be located in each of the subdistricts of the Petroleum Administration for Defense District with subdistricts''. SEC. 6. GRANTS FOR BIOFUEL PRODUCTION RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT IN CERTAIN STATES. (a) In General.--The Secretary shall provide grants to eligible entities for research, development, demonstration, and commercial application of biofuel production technologies in States with low rates of ethanol production, including low rates of production of cellulosic biomass ethanol, as determined by the Secretary. (b) Eligibility.--To be eligible to receive a grant under this section, an entity shall-- (1)(A) be an institution of higher education (as defined in section 2 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 15801)) located in a State described in subsection (a); or (B) be a consortium including at least 1 such institution of higher education, and industry, State agencies, Indian tribal agencies, or local government agencies located in the State; and (2) have proven experience and capabilities with relevant technologies. (c) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section $25,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2008 through 2010. SEC. 7. BIOREFINERY ENERGY EFFICIENCY. Section 932 of Energy Policy Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 16232), is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection: ``(g) Biorefinery Energy Efficiency.--The Secretary shall establish a program of research, development, demonstration, and commercial application for increasing energy efficiency and reducing energy consumption in the operation of biorefinery facilities.''. SEC. 8. STUDY OF INCREASED CONSUMPTION OF ETHANOL-BLENDED GASOLINE WITH HIGHER LEVELS OF ETHANOL. (a) In General.--The Secretary, in cooperation with the Secretary of Agriculture, the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Secretary of Transportation, and after providing notice and an opportunity for public comment, shall conduct a study of the feasibility of increasing consumption in the United States of ethanol- blended gasoline with levels of ethanol that are not less than 10 percent and not more than 40 percent. (b) Study.--The study under subsection (a) shall include-- (1) a review of production and infrastructure constraints on increasing consumption of ethanol; (2) an evaluation of the economic, market, and energy- related impacts of State and regional differences in ethanol blends; (3) an evaluation of the economic, market, and energy- related impacts on gasoline retailers and consumers of separate and distinctly labeled fuel storage facilities and dispensers; (4) an evaluation of the environmental impacts of the ethanol blends described in subsection (a) on evaporative and exhaust emissions from on-road, off-road, and marine vehicle engines; (5) an evaluation of the impacts of the ethanol blends described in subsection (a) on the operation, durability, and performance of on-road, off-road, and marine vehicle engines; and (6) an evaluation of the safety impacts of the ethanol blends described in subsection (a) on consumers that own and operate off-road and marine vehicle engines. (c) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report describing the results of the study conducted under this section. SEC. 9. STUDY OF OPTIMIZATION OF FLEXIBLE FUELED VEHICLES TO USE E-85 FUEL. (a) In General.--The Secretary shall conduct a study of whether optimizing flexible fueled vehicles to operate using E-85 fuel would increase the fuel efficiency of flexible fueled vehicles, and shall include recommendations for how manufacturers can best optimize such vehicles to increase fuel efficiency. (b) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Science and Technology of the House of Representatives the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate a report that describes the results of the study under this section, including any recommendations of the Secretary. SEC. 10. STUDY OF ENGINE DURABILITY ASSOCIATED WITH THE USE OF BIODIESEL. (a) In General.--Not later than 30 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall initiate a study on the effects of the use of biodiesel on engine durability. (b) Components.--The study under this section shall include-- (1) an assessment of whether the use of biodiesel in conventional diesel engines lessens engine durability; and (2) an assessment of the effects referred to in subsection (a) with respect to biodiesel blends at varying concentrations, including the following percentage concentrations of biodiesel: (A) 5 percent biodiesel. (B) 10 percent biodiesel. (C) 20 percent biodiesel. (D) 30 percent biodiesel. (E) 100 percent biodiesel. (c) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Science and Technology of the House of Representatives the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate a report that describes the results of the study under this section, including any recommendations of the Secretary. SEC. 11. BIOENERGY RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT, AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATION. (a) Section 931 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 16231) is amended-- (1) in subsection (b)-- (A) at the end of paragraph (2) by striking ``and''; (B) at the end of paragraph (3) by striking the period and inserting ``; and''; and (C) by adding at the end the following new paragraph: ``(4) $963,000,000 for fiscal year 2010.''; and (2) in subsection (c)-- (A) in paragraph (2), by striking ``$251,000,000'' and inserting ``$377,000,000''; (B) in paragraph (3), by striking ``$274,000,000'' and inserting ``$398,000,000''; and (C) by adding at the end the following new paragraph: ``(4) $419,000,000 for fiscal year 2010, of which $150,000,00 shall be for section 932(d).''.

Summary: Biofuels Research and Development Enhancement Act - Directs the Secretary of Energy to establish an information center on research, development, and commercial application of technologies related to biofuels and biorefineries, including: (1) biochemical and thermochemical conversion technologies to make fuels from lignocellulosic feedstocks; (2) biotechnology processes that emphasize enzyme-based processing systems; and (3) other advanced processes and technologies that will enable biofuel development. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to instruct the Secretary to implement a research, development, and demonstration program relating to: (1) existing transportation fuel distribution infrastructure and new alternative distribution infrastructure, focusing on the physical and chemical properties of biofuels and prevention of or mitigation against certain adverse impacts; (2) bioresearch centers located in Petroleum Administration for Defense Districts, with a focus on biofuels; and (3) increased energy efficiency and reduced energy consumption in biorefinery facilities. Directs the Secretary to make grants for research, development, demonstration, and commercial application of biofuel production technologies in states with low rates of ethanol production and of cellulosic biomass ethanol. Requires the Secretary to study and report to Congress on: (1) research and development challenges in increasing to 5% biodiesel fuel sold in the United States; (2) the feasibility of increasing domestic consumption of ethanol-blended gasoline with specified levels of ethanol; (3) whether optimizing flexible fueled vehicles to use E-85 fuel would increase their fuel efficiency; and (4) the effects of biodiesel upon engine durability.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Department of Veterans Affairs Nurse Recruitment and Retention Act of 2004''. SEC. 2. PILOT PROGRAM TO STUDY INNOVATIVE RECRUITMENT TOOLS TO ADDRESS NURSING SHORTAGES AT DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS HEALTH-CARE FACILITIES. (a) Pilot.--(1) Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall designate a health-care service region, or a section within such a region, in which health-care facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs are adversely affected by a shortage of qualified nurses. (2) The Secretary shall conduct a pilot program in the region or section designated under paragraph (1) to determine the effectiveness of the use of innovative human-capital tools and techniques in the recruitment of qualified nurses for positions at Department health-care facilities and for the retention of nurses at such facilities. In carrying out the pilot program, the Secretary shall enter into a contract with a private-sector entity for services under the pilot program for recruitment of qualified nurses. (b) Private-Sector Recruitment Practices.--For purposes of the pilot program under this section, the Secretary shall identify and use recruitment practices that have proven effective for placing qualified individuals in positions that are difficult to fill due to shortages of qualified individuals or other factors. Recruitment practices to be reviewed by the Secretary for use in the pilot program shall include-- (1) employer branding and interactive advertising strategies; (2) Internet technologies and automated staffing systems; and (3) the use of recruitment, advertising, and communication agencies. (c) Streamlined Hiring Process.--In carrying out the pilot program under this section, the Secretary shall, at health-care facilities of the Department in the region or section in which the pilot program is conducted, revise procedures and systems for selecting and hiring qualified nurses to reduce the length of the hiring process. If the Secretary identifies measures to streamline and automate the hiring process that can only be implemented if authorized by law, the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Veterans' Affairs of the Senate and House of Representatives recommendations for such changes in law as may be necessary to enable such measure to be implemented. (d) Report.--Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Veterans' Affairs of the Senate and House of Representatives a report on the extent to which the pilot program achieved the goal of improving the recruitment and retention of nurses in Department of Veterans Affairs health-care facilities. SEC. 3. ALTERNATE WORK SCHEDULES FOR NURSES. (a) Enhanced Shift Flexibility.--Chapter 74 of title 38, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 7456 the following new section: ``Sec. 7456a. Alternate work schedules ``(a) Applicability.--This section applies to registered nurses appointed under this chapter. ``(b) 36/40 Work Schedule.--(1) Subject to paragraph (2), if the Secretary determines it to be necessary in order to obtain or retain the services of registered nurses at a Department health-care facility, the Secretary may provide, in the case of registered nurses employed at that facility, that such a nurse who works three regularly scheduled 12-hour tours of duty within a workweek shall be considered for all purposes (except computation of full-time equivalent employees for the purposes of determining compliance with personnel ceilings) to have worked a full 40-hour basic workweek. Such a schedule may be referred to as a `36/40 work schedule'. ``(2)(A) Basic and additional pay for a registered nurse who is considered under paragraph (1) to have worked a full 40-hour basic workweek is subject to subparagraphs (B) and (C). ``(B) The hourly rate of basic pay for such a nurse for service performed as part of a regularly scheduled 36-hour tour of duty within the workweek shall be derived by dividing the nurse's annual rate of basic pay by 1,872. ``(C)(i) Such a nurse who performs a period of service in excess of such nurse's regularly scheduled 36-hour tour of duty within a workweek is entitled to overtime pay under section 7453(e) of this title, or other applicable law, for officially ordered or approved service performed in excess of-- ``(I) eight hours on a day other than a day on which such nurse's regularly scheduled 12-hour tour falls; ``(II) 12 hours for any day included in the regularly scheduled 36-hour tour of duty; and ``(III) 40 hours during an administrative workweek. ``(ii) Except as provided in clause (i), a registered nurse to whom this subsection is applicable is not entitled to additional pay under section 7453 of this title, or other applicable law, for any period included in a regularly scheduled 12-hour tour of duty. ``(3) A nurse who works a 36/40 work schedule described in this subsection who is absent on approved sick leave or annual leave during a regularly scheduled 12-hour tour of duty shall be charged for such leave at a rate of ten hours of leave for nine hours of absence. ``(c) 7/7 Work Schedule--(1) Subject to paragraph (2), if the Secretary determines it to be necessary in order to obtain or retain the services of registered nurses at a Department health-care facility, the Secretary may provide, in the case of registered nurses employed at such facility, that such a nurse who works seven regularly scheduled 10-hour tours of duty, with seven days off duty, within a two-week pay period, shall be considered for all purposes (except computation of full-time equivalent employees for the purposes of determining compliance with personnel ceilings) to have worked a full 80 hours for the pay period. Such a schedule may be referred to as a `7/7 work schedule'. ``(2)(A) Basic and additional pay for a registered nurse who is considered under paragraph (1) to have worked a full 80-hour pay period is subject to subparagraphs (B) and (C). ``(B) The hourly rate of basic pay for such a nurse for service performed as part of a regularly scheduled 70-hour tour of duty within the pay period shall be derived by dividing the nurse's annual rate of basic pay by 1,820. ``(C)(i) Such a nurse who performs a period of service in excess of such nurse's regularly scheduled 70-hour tour of duty within a pay period is entitled to overtime pay under section 7453(e) of this title, or other applicable law, for officially ordered or approved service performed in excess of-- ``(I) eight hours on a day other than a day on which such nurse's regularly scheduled 10-hour tour falls; ``(II) 10 hours for any day included in the regularly scheduled 70-hour tour of duty; and ``(III) 80 hours during a pay period. ``(ii) Except as provided in subparagraph (i), a registered nurse to whom this subsection is applicable is not entitled to additional pay under section 7453 of this title, or other applicable law, for any period included in a regularly scheduled 10-hour tour of duty. ``(3) A nurse who works a 7/7 work schedule described in this subsection who is absent on approved sick leave or annual leave during a regularly scheduled 12-hour tour of duty shall be charged for such leave at a rate of eight hours of leave for seven hours of absence. ``(d) 9-Month Work Schedule.--The Secretary may authorize a registered nurse appointed under section 7405 of this title, with the nurse's written consent, to work full-time for nine months with three months off duty, within a fiscal year, and be paid at 75 percent of the full-time rate for such nurse's grade for each pay period of that fiscal year. A nurse working on such a schedule for any fiscal year shall be considered a \3/4\ full-time equivalent employee for that fiscal year in computing full-time equivalent employees for the purposes of determining compliance with personnel ceilings. Service on such a schedule shall be considered to be part-time service for purposes of computing benefits under chapters 83 and 84 of title 5. ``(e) Regulations.--The Secretary shall prescribe regulations for the implementation of this section.''. (b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections at the beginning of chapter 74 of such title is amended by inserting after the item relating to section 7456 the following new item: ``7456a. Alternate work schedules.''. SEC. 4. TECHNICAL CORRECTION TO LISTING OF CERTAIN HYBRID POSITIONS IN VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION. Section 7401(3) of title 38, United States Code, is amended-- (1) by striking ``and dental technologists'' and inserting ``technologists, dental hygienists, dental assistants''; and (2) by striking ``technicians, therapeutic radiologic technicians, and social workers'' and inserting ``technologists, therapeutic radiologic technologists, social workers, blind rehabilitation specialists, and blind rehabilitation outpatient specialists''. SEC. 5. ASSISTANCE FOR HIRING AND RETENTION OF NURSES AT STATE VETERANS HOMES. (a) In General.--(1) Chapter 17 of title 38, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 1743 the following new section: ``Sec. 1744. Hiring and retention of nurses: payments to assist States ``(a) Payment Program.--The Secretary shall make payments to States under this section for the purpose of assisting State homes in the hiring and retention of nurses and the reduction of nursing shortages at State homes. ``(b) Eligible Recipients.--Payments to a State for a fiscal year under this section shall, subject to submission of an application, be made to any State that during that year-- ``(1) receives per diem payments under this subchapter for that fiscal year; and ``(2) has in effect an employee incentive scholarship program or other employee incentive program at a State home designed to promote the hiring and retention of nursing staff and to reduce nursing shortages at that home. ``(c) Use of Funds Received.--A State may use an amount received under this section only to provide funds for a program described in subsection (b)(2). Any program shall meet such criteria as the Secretary may prescribe. In prescribing such criteria, the Secretary shall take into consideration the need for flexibility and innovation. ``(d) Limitations on Amount of Payment.--(1) A payment under this section may not be used to provide more than 50 percent of the costs for a fiscal year of the employee incentive scholarship or other incentive program for which the payment is made. ``(2) The amount of the payment to a State under this section for any fiscal year is, for each State home in that State with a program described in subsection (b)(2), the amount equal to 2 percent of the amount of payments estimated to be made to that State, for that State home, under section 1741 of this title for that fiscal year. ``(e) Applications.--A payment under this section for any fiscal year with respect to any State home may only be made based upon an application submitted by the State seeking the payment with respect to that State home. Any such application shall describe the nursing shortage at the State home and the employee incentive scholarship program or other incentive program described in subsection (c) for which the payment is sought. ``(f) Source of Funds.--Payments under this section shall be made from funds available for other payments under this subchapter. ``(g) Disbursement.--Payments under this section to a State home shall be made as part of the disbursement of payments under section 1741 of this title with respect to that State home. ``(h) Use of Certain Receipts.--The Secretary shall require as a condition of any payment under this section that, in any case in which the State home receives a refund payment made by an employee in breach of the terms of an agreement for employee assistance that used funds provided under this section, the payment shall be returned to the State home's incentive program account and credited as a non-Federal funding source. ``(i) Annual Report From Payment Recipients.--Any State home receiving a payment under this section for any fiscal year, shall, as a condition of the payment, be required to agree to provide to the Secretary a report setting forth in detail the use of funds received through the payment, including a descriptive analysis of how effective the incentive program has been on nurse staffing in the State home during that fiscal year. The report for any fiscal year shall be provided to the Secretary within 60 days of the close of the fiscal year and shall be subject to audit by the Secretary. Eligibility for a payment under this section for any later fiscal year is contingent upon the receipt by the Secretary of the annual report under this subsection for the previous year in accordance with this subsection. ``(j) Regulations.--The Secretary shall prescribe regulations to carry out this section. The regulations shall include the establishment of criteria for the award of payments under this section.''. (2) The table of sections at the beginning of such chapter is amended by inserting after section 1743 the following new item: ``1744. Hiring and retention of nurses: payments to assist States.''. (b) Implementation.--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall implement section 1744 of title 38, United States Code, as added by subsection (a), as expeditiously as possible. The Secretary shall establish such interim procedures as necessary so as to ensure that payments are made to eligible States under that section commencing not later than January 1, 2005, notwithstanding that regulations under subsection (j) of that section may not have become final. SEC. 6. TECHNICAL CLARIFICATION. Section 8111(d)(2) of title 38, United States Code, is amended by inserting before the period at the end of the last sentence the following: ``and shall be available for any purpose authorized by this section''. SEC. 7. UNDER SECRETARY FOR HEALTH. Section 305(a)(2) of title 38, United States Code, is amended-- (1) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking ``shall be a doctor of medicine and''; and (2) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``and in health-care'' and inserting ``or in health-care''. Passed the House of Representatives September 30, 2004. Attest: JEFF TRANDAHL, Clerk.

Summary: Department of Veterans Affairs Nurse Recruitment and Retention Act of 2004 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to designate a health care service region, or section within such a region, in which health care facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs are adversely affected by a shortage of qualified nurses, and to conduct a pilot program in such region or section on the use of innovative human-capital tools and techniques in the recruitment of qualified nurses for such positions. Requires the Secretary, as part of the pilot program, to: (1) identify and use private-sector nurse recruitment practices that have proven effective; and (2) revise procedures and systems to reduce the length of the hiring process. Requires a report from the Secretary to the congressional veterans' committees on the extent to which the pilot program achieved the goal of improving the recruitment and retention of nurses in Department health-care facilities. Authorizes the Secretary, with respect to appointed nurses, to provide: (1) a three 12-hour day work schedule, with authorized overtime after a 36-hour workweek; (2) a seven day, 10-hour work schedule for each two-week period, with authorized overtime after working 80 hours within such period; and (3) a nine-month work period with three months off, with such nurses paid at 75 percent of the full-time rate. Includes dental hygienists, dental assistants, and blind rehabilitation specialists within those positions which the Secretary is authorized to make appointments. Authorizes the Secretary to make payments to States to assist State homes in the hiring and retention of nurses and the reduction of nursing shortages at State homes. Limits payment amounts. Requires, from each State home receiving such assistance, an annual report to the Secretary on the use of such funds. Removes the requirement that the Department's Under Secretary for Health be a doctor of medicine.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Arsenic-Treated Wood Prohibition Act''. SEC. 2. PROHIBITION OF CERTAIN USES OF ARSENIC-TREATED WOOD; AMENDMENT TO FEDERAL INSECTICIDE, FUNGICIDE, AND RODENTICIDE ACT. (a) In General.--The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (7 U.S.C. 136a et seq.) is amended-- (1) by redesignating sections 33 and 34 as sections 34 and 35, respectively; and (2) by inserting after section 32 the following: ``SEC. 33. PROHIBITION AGAINST USE OF ARSENIC-TREATED WOOD TO MANUFACTURE CERTAIN PRODUCTS OR STRUCTURES. ``(a) In General.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this section, the Administrator shall promulgate regulations that prohibit-- ``(1) the use of arsenic-treated wood to manufacture any product or structure that may be used for or by children, including-- ``(A) playground equipment, play houses, or other structures designed for frequent use specifically by children; ``(B) fences; ``(C) walkways; ``(D) decks; ``(E) docks and boat houses; and ``(F) structures or products used in residential landscaping; ``(2) the use of arsenic-treated wood to manufacture mulch, compost, or soil-amendment products; ``(3) the use of arsenic-treated wood to manufacture railroad ties, marine pilings, or utility poles, except that this subsection does not apply to such a product or structure to the extent that the Administrator determines that the use of arsenic-treated wood in the product or structure is safe; and ``(4) such additional uses of arsenic-treated wood to manufacture products or structures as the Administrator determines to be appropriate, whether such products or structures are intended for residential use or commercial use. ``(b) Definitions.--For purposes of this section: ``(1) Arsenic-treated wood.--The term `arsenic-treated wood' means wood that is treated with a pesticide that is a chromated copper arsenical or is treated with any other arsenical pesticide. ``(2) Manufacture.--The term `manufacture', with respect to the use of arsenic-treated wood in products and structures described in subsection (a), includes-- ``(A) the creation of a product designed to be assembled by a consumer; and ``(B) the building of a product on behalf of a consumer in accordance with specifications given by the consumer.''. (b) Risk Assessment.-- (1) In general.--Not later than March 15, 2004, the Administrator, in consultation with the Consumer Products Safety Commission, shall publish in the Federal Register an assessment of the risks posed by the production, cutting, milling, sanding, mulching, and use of CCA-treated wood. (2) Methodology.--In conducting the risk assessment, the Administrator shall follow the methodology recommended by the Scientific Advisory Panels that were organized by the Environmental Protection Agency and that met in October 2001. (3) Definitions.--For purposes of this subsection: (A) The term ``Administrator'' means the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency. (B) The term ``CCA-treated wood'' means wood that is treated with a pesticide that is a chromated copper arsenical. (c) Conforming Amendment.--The table of contents in section 1(b) of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (7 U.S.C. prec. 121) is amended by striking the items relating to sections 30 and 31 and inserting the following: ``Sec. 30. Minimum requirements for training of maintenance applicators and service technicians. ``Sec. 31. Environmental Protection Agency minor use program. ``Sec. 32. Department of Agriculture minor use program. ``(a) In general. ``(b)(1) Minor use pesticide data. ``(2) Minor Use Pesticide Data Revolving Fund. ``Sec. 33. Prohibition of certain uses of arsenic-treated lumber. ``(a) In general. ``(b) Definitions. ``(1) Arsenic-treated wood. ``(2) Manufacture. ``Sec. 34. Severability. ``Sec. 35. Authorization for appropriations.''. SEC. 3. DISPOSAL OF ARSENIC-TREATED WOOD; AMENDMENT TO SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL ACT. Section 3001(e) of the Solid Waste Disposal Act (42 U.S.C. 6921(e)) is amended by adding at the end the following: ``(3)(A) Discarded arsenic-treated wood and sawdust from such wood shall be deemed, for purposes of this Act, to be a listed hazardous waste under subsection (b)(1) and shall be disposed of in a lined landfill with a leachate collection system and groundwater monitoring system (or such other system as the Administrator determines is appropriate to capture arsenic and prevent arsenic from contaminating groundwater). ``(B) As used in subparagraph (A): ``(i) The term `arsenic-treated wood' means wood that is treated with a pesticide that is a chromated copper arsenical or is treated with any other arsenical pesticide. ``(ii) The term `pesticide' has the meaning given such term in section 2 of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (7 U.S.C. 136).''. SEC. 4. ASSISTANCE TO CONSUMERS, STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS, AND SCHOOL SYSTEMS. (a) Educational Program.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Administrator, in consultation with the Consumer Product Safety Commission, shall develop and conduct an educational program to assist consumers, State and local governments, school systems, and other institutions in-- (1) testing arsenic levels in arsenic-treated wood and soil surrounding arsenic-treated wood; (2) making decisions relating to the containment and removal of arsenic-treated wood from homes, playgrounds, schools, and other facilities designed primarily for use by children; and (3) providing guidance regarding the decontamination of soils, mulches, and other media under structures made of arsenic-treated wood where children or pets may be exposed to arsenic. (b) Assistance for Schools.-- (1) In general.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall establish a pilot program to provide grants and technical assistance to school systems to assist the school systems in-- (A) removing playground and other equipment containing arsenic-treated wood from grounds of the school systems; (B) applying sealant to arsenic-treated wood structures; and (C) conducting any necessary remediation relating to use of arsenic-treated wood. (2) Certain uses of grant.--The Administrator may authorize a grant under paragraph (1) to be used for the purpose of replacing playground equipment and related items that are removed because the equipment or items contain arsenic-treated wood. With respect to any portion of a grant under such paragraph that is authorized to be used for such purpose, the Administrator may require that the applicant involved make non- Federal contributions toward the cost of replacing the equipment or items. (c) Definitions.--In this section: (1) The term ``Administrator'' means the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency. (2) The term ``arsenic-treated wood'' means wood that is treated with a pesticide that is a chromated copper arsenical or is treated with any other arsenical pesticide. (3) The term ``pesticide'' has the meaning given such term in section 2 of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (7 U.S.C. 136). (d) Authorization of Appropriations.--For the purpose of carrying out this section, there are authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary for fiscal year 2004 and each subsequent fiscal year. SEC. 5. CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION; REPORT ON MITIGATION MEASURES REGARDING CHILDREN AND ARSENIC-TREATED WOOD. Not later than August 1, 2004, the Consumer Product Safety Commission shall submit to the Congress a report on the status of the efforts of the Commission to identify stains, sealants, or other measures for reducing the exposure of children to arsenic from products or structures that-- (1) are constructed in whole or part with arsenic-treated wood, as defined in section 33 of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, as added by section 2 of this Act; (2) may be used for or by children; and (3) will remain in use after the effective date of the prohibition established in regulations under such section 33.

Summary: Arsenic-Treated Wood Prohibition Act - Amends the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act to require the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to promulgate regulations prohibiting the use of arsenic-treated wood (wood treated with a pesticide that is a chromated copper arsenical or another arsenical pesticide) in the manufacture of any product that may be used for or by children or for mulch, compost, a soil amendment, certain other construction and utility uses, and additional uses as determined to be appropriate. Requires the Administrator to conduct an assessment of the risks posed by the production, processing, and use of CCA-treated wood (wood treated with a pesticide that is a chromated copper arsenical). Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to: (1) list arsenic-treated wood as a hazardous waste; and (2) require disposal of discarded arsenic-treated wood in a lined landfill with a leachate system and groundwater monitoring system. Requires the Administrator to: (1) develop and conduct an educational program to assist consumers, State and local governments, school systems, and other institutions in testing arsenic levels and making decisions concerning arsenic-treated wood containment, removal, and decontamination; and (2) establish a pilot program of grants and technical assistance to assist school systems in removal of playground and other equipment containing arsenic-treated wood and remediation activities. Requires the Consumer Product Safety Commission to report to Congress on its efforts to identify measures (including stains and sealants) for reducing children's exposure to arsenic from products or structures constructed with arsenic-treated wood that will remain in use after the prohibition established by this Act.