SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``SCHIP Enhancement Act of 2001''. SEC. 2. FINDINGS. Congress makes the following findings: (1) The State children's health insurance program (SCHIP) established under title XXI of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1397aa et seq.) currently limits coverage of children under that program to children whose family income does not exceed 200 percent of the Federal poverty line or 50 percentage points above the State's medicaid applicable income level. (2) Three million uninsured children (over 1 of every 4 such children) have family incomes that exceed 200 percent of the Federal poverty line, and 1,400,000 of those uninsured children would be provided health insurance coverage if the income eligibility level for SCHIP were increased to 300 percent of the Federal poverty line. SEC. 3. STATE OPTION TO EXPAND INCOME ELIGIBILITY UNDER SCHIP. (a) Definition of Low-Income Child.--Section 2110(c)(4) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 42 U.S.C. 1397jj(c)(4)) is amended-- (1) by striking ``The term'' and inserting the following: ``(A) In general.--The term''; and (2) by adding at the end the following new subparagraph: ``(B) State option to expand eligibility.-- ``(i) In general.--A State may elect through a plan amendment to apply subparagraph (A) as if `300 percent' were substituted for `200 percent'. ``(ii) No effect on determination of section 2104 allotments.--An election under clause (i) shall have no effect on the determination of a State's allotment under subsection (b) or (c) of section 2104.''. (b) Effective Date.--The amendments made by subsection (a) apply to child health assistance provided on or after October 1, 2001. SEC. 4. ADDITIONAL ALLOTMENTS FOR STATES THAT EXPAND INCOME ELIGIBILITY UNDER SCHIP. (a) In General.--Title XXI of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1397aa et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following new section: ``SEC. 2111. ADDITIONAL ALLOTMENTS FOR STATES THAT OPT TO EXPAND INCOME ELIGIBILITY. ``(a) Eligibility for Additional Allotments.--A State that, not later than December 31 of any fiscal year, meets the following requirements shall be eligible for the additional allotments determined for the State under subsection (b) for that fiscal year: ``(1) Increase in income eligibility.--The State submits to the Secretary a certification by the chief executive officer of the State that, during the fiscal year, the State child health plan (whether implemented under title XIX or under this title) will have an income standard for children that is at least-- ``(A) with respect to the additional allotment determined under subsection (b)(1), 250 percent of the poverty line; and ``(B) with respect to the additional allotment determined under subsection (b)(2), 300 percent of the poverty line. ``(2) Submission of information required for certain uses of the additional allotment.--In the case of a State that intends to use the additional allotment provided under subsection (b)(2) for the purpose described in subsection (c)(3), the State submits to the Secretary a description of the reasonable planning and implementation costs the State expects to incur in providing premium assistance for family coverage under an employer-sponsored group health plan in accordance with subsection (d). ``(b) Determination of Additional Allotments.-- ``(1) States that increase income standard to 250 percent.--With respect to $617,000,000 of the amount available for the additional allotments under subsection (e) for a fiscal year, the Secretary shall allot an amount to each State with a State child health plan approved under this title that satisfies the requirements of paragraph (1)(A) and, if applicable, paragraph (2) of subsection (a)-- ``(A) in the case of such a State other than a commonwealth or territory described in subparagraph (B), an amount determined to bear the same ratio to $617,000,000 as the State's allotment under section 2104(b) (determined without regard to section 2104(f)) bears to 98.95 percent of the total amount of the allotments determined under section 2104(b) for such States for such fiscal year; and ``(B) in the case of a commonwealth or territory described in section 2104(c)(3), determined to bear the same ratio to $617,000,000 as the commonwealth's or territory's allotment under section 2104(c) (determined without regard to section 2104(f)) bears to 1.05 percent of the total amount of the allotments determined under section 2104(c) for commonwealths and territories for such fiscal year. ``(2) States that increase income standard to 300 percent.-- ``(A) In general.--With respect to $383,000,000 of the amount available for the additional allotments under subsection (e) for a fiscal year, the Secretary shall allot an amount to each State with a State child health plan approved under this title that satisfies the requirements of paragraph (1)(B) and, if applicable, paragraph (2) of subsection (a) determined in the same manner as the additional allotments under paragraph (1). ``(B) Allotments in addition to 250 percent allotments.--The allotments provided under this paragraph to a State shall be in addition to the allotments provided to the State under paragraph (1). ``(3) Availability.-- ``(A) 3-year availability.--Except as provided in subparagraph (B), amounts allotted to a State under paragraph (1) and, if applicable, paragraph (2) for a fiscal year shall remain available for expenditure by the State through the end of the second succeeding fiscal year. ``(B) Return of unused allotments.--The allotments set-aside under paragraphs (1) and (2) for a fiscal year for any State that has not met the requirements of subsection (a) on January 1 of that fiscal year shall be returned to the Treasury. ``(c) Use of Additional Allotments.--The additional allotments provided under subsection (b) to a State for a fiscal year may be-- ``(1) combined with the State's allotment for the fiscal year determined under section 2104 and used to provide child health assistance to all targeted low-income children under the State child health plan; or ``(2) used for-- ``(A) a premium assistance program under which the State pays part of the premiums for coverage of a child who is eligible for child health assistance under group health insurance or a group health plan in accordance with subsection (d); and ``(B) reasonable planning and implementation costs specified by the State under subsection (a)(2) without regard to the limitation on such costs under section 2105(c)(2)(A). ``(d) Premium Assistance for Family Coverage Under an Employer- Sponsored Group Health Plan.--The additional allotments provided under subsection (b) to a State for a fiscal year may be used for a premium assistance program that meets the following requirements: ``(1) The premium assistance program is cost-effective. ``(2) The State provides assurances that a child provided such assistance will receive the minimum benefits and cost- sharing protections established under this title either through the employer-sponsored group health plan or as a supplement to such coverage. ``(3) Employees eligible for employer-sponsored health coverage apply for the full premium contribution available from the employer. ``(4) The State evaluates the amount of substitution that occurs as a result of the premium assistance program and the effect of the program on access to health coverage. ``(e) Appropriation.--For the purpose of providing additional allotments under this section to States that meet the requirements of subsection (a), there is appropriated, out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, for each of fiscal years 2002 through 2011, $1,000,000,000.''. SEC. 5. EVALUATION AND REPORT ON PREMIUM ASSISTANCE FOR FAMILY COVERAGE. (a) In General.--The Secretary of Health and Human Services shall conduct an evaluation of any premium assistance programs conducted with the allotments provided to States under section 2111(b) of the Social Security Act (as added by section 4). Such evaluation shall identify any implementation problems with the provision of such assistance and whether the assistance has supplanted health insurance coverage that otherwise would be provided to such children. (b) Report.--Not later than January 1, 2006, the Secretary of Health and Human Services shall submit to Congress a report on the evaluation conducted under subsection (a), together with any recommendations for legislation that the Secretary determines to be appropriate as a result of such evaluation.

Summary: SCHIP Enhancement Act of 2001 - Amends title XXI (State Children's Health Insurance Program) (SCHIP) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to give States the option to expand income eligibility under SCHIP to children whose family income totals up to 300 percent (currently only 200 percent) of the Federal poverty line. Provides for additional allotments for States that expand income eligibility under SCHIP, allowing such allotments to be used for premium assistance for family coverage under an employee-sponsored group health plan.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``American Worker Mobility Act of 2014''. SEC. 2. RELOCATION SUBSIDIES FOR THE LONG-TERM UNEMPLOYED. (a) In General.--The Secretary of Labor may grant a relocation subsidy to an eligible individual who meets the requirements of this section. (b) Meaning of Eligible Individual.--For purposes of this section, an eligible individual is an individual who, as of the date of the application for a relocation subsidy under this section-- (1) is totally unemployed and has been totally unemployed for at least 26 consecutive weeks; (2) has exhausted all rights to regular compensation under the law of a State or under Federal law with respect to a benefit year (excluding any benefit year ending before July 1, 2008); (3) has not received a relocation subsidy under this section in the 2-year period preceding such date of application; and (4) is able to work, available to work, and actively seeking work. (c) Requirements for Grant.--The Secretary of Labor may not grant a relocation subsidy to an eligible individual under this section unless the Secretary determines that-- (1) the relocation subsidy will assist such individual in relocating within the United States, at least 60 miles from the individual's current residence, for the purpose of attaining employment; (2) such individual filed an application with the Secretary not later than January 1, 2019; and (3) such individual-- (A) has obtained a bona fide offer of suitable employment affording a reasonable expectation of long- term duration in the area in which the individual wishes to relocate; or (B) wishes to relocate to an area that has an unemployment rate that is at least 2 percentage points less than the unemployment rate of the area of the individual's initial residence. (d) Amount of Subsidy.--A relocation subsidy granted to an eligible individual under this section shall be equal to the lesser of $10,000 or the amount that any contribution by a potential employer of the individual to the individual's relocation expenses is exceeded by the sum of-- (1) 90 percent of the reasonable and necessary expenses incurred in transporting the worker, the worker's family, and household effects, plus (2) a lump sum equivalent to 3 times the individual's weekly benefit amount for the most recent benefit year (as such terms are defined in the State law), up to a maximum payment of $1,250. (e) Regulations.--Prior to granting any relocation subsidies under subsection (a), the Secretary of Labor shall issue regulations designed to prevent fraud or abuse relating to the program established under this Act. (f) No Additional Funds Authorized.--No additional appropriations are authorized for any fiscal year to carry out this Act. (g) Definitions.--For purposes of this section-- (1) the term ``regular compensation'' has the meaning given the term in section 205(2) of the Federal-State Extended Unemployment Compensation Act of 1970 (26 U.S.C. 3304 note), as in effect prior to January 1, 2014; and (2) the term ``suitable work''-- (A) means suitable work as defined in the applicable State law for claimants for regular compensation; and (B) does not include self-employment or employment as an independent contractor. (h) Reports.--Not later than March 15 of each of calendar years 2015 and 2017, the Secretary of Labor shall submit a report to Congress that identifies, by geographic region-- (1) the total number of relocation subsidies granted to individuals under this section during the calendar year preceding each such calendar year; (2) the total number of relocation subsidies granted to individuals pursuant to subsection (c)(3)(A) during such calendar year; (3) the total number of relocation subsidies granted to individuals pursuant to subsection (c)(3)(B) during such calendar year, and the number of such individuals who obtained employment within 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months, respectively, after the individual's relocation; (4) the average amount of a relocation subsidy granted during such calendar year; (5) the average distance traveled for relocation by each individual receiving a relocation subsidy during such calendar year; and (6) the number of individuals who received a relocation subsidy under this section during such calendar year and subsequently applied for unemployment benefits.

Summary: American Worker Mobility Act of 2014 - Authorizes the Secretary of Labor to grant a relocation subsidy of up to $10,000 to an individual who: (1) has been totally unemployed for at least 26 consecutive weeks; (2) has exhausted all rights to state or federal unemployment compensation; (3) has not received a relocation subsidy for the two-year period preceding the subsidy application; and (4) is able to work, available to work, and actively seeking work. Prescribes subsidy program requirements. Directs the Secretary to issue regulations to prevent program fraud or abuse.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Supporting Afterschool STEM Act''. SEC. 2. FINDINGS. Congress finds the following: (1) Numerous authoritative studies document that the proficiency of students in the United States in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (``STEM'') will have a major impact on the Nation's future economic competitiveness and on the preeminence of the United States in scientific inquiry and technological innovation. (2) Results from the National Assessment of Educational Progress, the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study, the Programme for International Science Assessment, and other sources show that students in the United States are not demonstrating sufficient achievement in the STEM subjects and are not keeping pace with students in other countries. (3) Research demonstrates the importance of afterschool programs in engaging students in STEM fields and building STEM- relevant skills and proficiencies, especially for girls, students from populations traditionally underrepresented in STEM fields, and students from low socioeconomic circumstances. (4) A National Research Council consensus study confirmed the importance of learning that occurs in out-of-school-time settings such as afterschool programs and science centers, and proposed a set of ``strands of science learning'' framework that articulated capabilities fostered by informal learning environments. (5) According to a 2013 study entitled ``Defining Youth Outcomes for STEM Learning in Afterschool'', the afterschool field is confident in its ability to help young people develop interest in STEM and STEM learning activities, develop capacities to productively engage in such activities, and come to value them. The afterschool field is also confident that it can impact skills such as problem-solving abilities, demonstrating STEM skills, career awareness, and 21st century skills, such as teamwork, that are important to the workforce and national economic goals. (6) The Federal Government should use its resources as effectively as possible to increase opportunities for students to be exposed to STEM subjects outside of the school day and to build a balanced kindergarten through grade 12 STEM education portfolio that fosters learning in school as well as in out-of- school-time programs. (7) Afterschool programs have long partnered with other youth-serving and community organizations to meet the needs of students. Cross-sector collaborations between afterschool programs, schools, science centers, institutions of higher education, businesses, and other entities are yielding great benefits for engaging young people in STEM fields. (8) As interest and momentum grows around STEM programming in afterschool, more and better partnerships across Federal agencies become increasingly important to leverage resources and offer high-quality, hands-on STEM experiences for youth. SEC. 3. PURPOSES. The purposes of this Act are-- (1) to enhance America's economic competitiveness by strengthening STEM education through fostering interest and success in STEM subjects among certain student populations in kindergarten through grade 12; (2) to engage Federal agencies and foster interagency collaboration in STEM education afterschool program investments; (3) to recognize the important role that afterschool programs offered by nonprofit and community-based organizations, science centers, museums, libraries, and other such entities, play in STEM education and to support their efforts; (4) to involve institutions of higher education as partners in such efforts and foster increased collaboration; and (5) to inspire young people to study and work in STEM subjects. SEC. 4. DEFINITIONS. In this Act: (1) Afterschool or stem network.--The term ``afterschool or STEM network'' means a coalition that fosters partnerships and provides support to afterschool program providers and STEM education providers to develop and sustain quality education programming for children and youth in afterschool programs. (2) Afterschool program.--The term ``afterschool program'' means a structured program offered for elementary school, middle school, or secondary school students when school is not in session, such as before or after school, on the weekend, or during the summer. (3) Director.--The term ``Director'' means the Director of the National Science Foundation. (4) Elementary school.--The term ``elementary school'' has the meaning given the term in section 9101 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 7801). (5) Middle school.--The term ``middle school'' means a nonprofit institutional day or residential school, including a public charter school, that provides middle grades education, as determined under State law. (6) Secondary school.--The term ``secondary school'' has the meaning given the term in section 9101 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 7801). (7) Institution of higher education.--The term ``institution of higher education'' has the meaning given the term in section 102 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1002). (8) STEM.--The term ``STEM'' means science, technology, engineering, or mathematics, and includes the fields of computer science and robotics. SEC. 5. AFTERSCHOOL STEM SUPPORT GRANT PROGRAM. (a) Goals of Program.--The goals of the afterschool STEM grant program carried out under this Act are-- (1) to support the development and delivery of high-quality STEM education to populations underrepresented in STEM fields; (2) to leverage the expertise and infrastructure available to afterschool programs that include STEM content through afterschool or STEM networks; (3) to leverage existing Federal STEM education investments, as of the date of enactment of this Act, in order to encourage STEM-focused grant recipients to lend their time and expertise to afterschool programs that include STEM content; and (4) to provide hands-on learning and exposure to STEM research facilities and businesses through in-person or virtual distance-learning experiences. (b) Program Authorized.-- (1) In general.--From amounts appropriated to carry out this Act and not reserved under paragraph (4), the Director shall award grants, on a competitive basis, to afterschool or STEM networks-- (A) to support afterschool programs that include STEM content through the activities described in subsection (e); and (B) to carry out the goals described in subsection (a). (2) Duration.--Each grant awarded under this Act shall be for a period of not more than 3 years. (3) Amounts.--The Director shall ensure that each grant awarded under this Act is in an amount that is sufficient to carry out the goals described in subsection (a). (4) Reservation.--From the amounts appropriated for this grant, the Director shall reserve 20 percent of such funds to develop and support new afterschool or STEM networks in States or areas where such networks do not exist. (c) Application.-- (1) In general.--An afterschool or STEM network desiring a grant under subsection (b)(1) shall submit an application at such time, in such manner, and containing such information that the Director may require. (2) Contents.--The application described in paragraph (1) shall, at a minimum, include-- (A) a description of the status of afterschool STEM programming in the State or area in which the afterschool or STEM network is located, including-- (i) the number of afterschool programs in the State or area; (ii) the number of such afterschool programs focused on STEM subjects and activities; (iii) the number of students served by existing afterschool programs, as of the date of the application, in the State or area; (iv) the number of students served by existing afterschool programs that include STEM content in the State or area; (v) the unmet demand for afterschool programs in the State or area; and (vi) the unmet demand for afterschool programs focused on STEM subjects and activities in the State or area; (B) an analysis of existing and needed resources that identifies areas and populations most in need of opportunities for high-quality afterschool programs that include STEM content; (C) a description of the current and past work carried out by the afterschool or STEM network to support the needs of afterschool program providers in the State or area served by the network; (D) a detailed plan that describes initiatives that shall be undertaken to-- (i) support and grow afterschool programs that include STEM content; and (ii) leverage existing Federal investments in afterschool programs and STEM education, as of the date of the application; (E) a description of financial and other commitments that support expanded afterschool STEM programming in the State or area served by the network; and (F) a description of any confirmed or potential partners that will work with the afterschool or STEM network to carry out the activities under the grant. (d) Priority.--In awarding grants under subsection (b)(1), the Director shall give priority to applications from afterschool or STEM networks that-- (1) demonstrate a clear understanding of the afterschool programs and settings, and the status of afterschool programs that include STEM content, in the State or area to be served by the grant; (2) have established working relationships with afterschool program and STEM education stakeholders in the State or area; (3) are working to advance the availability of high-quality afterschool programs that include STEM content for underserved populations and populations underrepresented in STEM fields, including girls; and (4) are leveraging Federal or other public investments in STEM education or afterschool programming. (e) Uses of Funds.--An afterschool or STEM network that receives a grant under subsection (b)(1) may use grant funds to carry out any of the following activities: (1) Develop quality standards for STEM programming in afterschool programs and provide technical assistance to afterschool programs to implement such standards. (2) Work with State education stakeholders to define and promote appropriate measurable outcomes for afterschool programs that include STEM content. (3) Provide technical assistance to afterschool programs to start or grow their afterschool STEM efforts and define appropriate learning outcomes for such efforts. (4) Coordinate professional development for afterschool program educators by-- (A) identifying training programs that are available, as of the time of the identification, for afterschool program educators; (B) working with partners to allow joint professional development with teachers at elementary schools, middle schools, and secondary schools, as appropriate; and (C) partnering with teacher training programs to utilize afterschool programs for practicum experiences, employment placements, and other opportunities. (5) Help afterschool program providers form strategic partnerships as needed to advance STEM learning in afterschool programs, including partnerships with elementary schools, middle schools, secondary schools, institutions of higher education (including community colleges and programs and schools of education), businesses, research facilities, national laboratories, science centers, and other appropriate entities. (6) Create and disseminate tool kits to afterschool programs wanting to form partnerships and incorporate STEM professionals as mentors and role models that-- (A) provide technical assistance and guidance, including assistance in connecting afterschool program providers with STEM researchers and professionals who may be able to assist in STEM-focused activities; (B) include-- (i) examples of strong afterschool programs that have incorporated such partnerships to serve as models; (ii) a list of potential partners that could assist in STEM-focused activities; and (iii) guidance on how to engage STEM professionals, mentors, and role models in the program; and (C) identify federally supported STEM education programs and research in the State or area served by the grant. (7) Provide technical assistance to federally funded STEM researchers and professionals who wish to engage with afterschool programs that, at a minimum, includes-- (A) examples of partnerships between afterschool programs and institutions rich in STEM resources; (B) a resource that provides a description of the afterschool program setting, the opportunities for engagement in afterschool programs, and the constraints of which the researchers or professionals need to be aware; (C) how to find an afterschool program provider with which the researcher or professional would like to engage; (D) how to ensure an effective and productive partnership with the afterschool provider through mutually beneficial engagement, and engage in a productive conversation with the afterschool provider to determine if the partnership will be productive; (E) how to craft a mutually beneficial engagement and partnership; and (F) guidance on how to measure appropriate outcomes for afterschool programs and afterschool programs that include STEM content. (8) Any other activity, as proposed in the application and determined appropriate by the Director. (f) Report.--Each afterschool or STEM network receiving a grant under subsection (b)(1) shall submit an annual report to the Director regarding the progress of the grant. SEC. 6. FEDERAL PARTNERSHIP WITH AFTERSCHOOL PROGRAMS. Beginning not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Director shall provide information, to each recipient of a STEM research grant under the authority of the Director, on opportunities to engage with students in out-of-school-time programs, such as through mentorships. Such information shall include-- (1) a listing of all afterschool or STEM program networks in the region of the recipient; (2) a toolkit that provides guidance to federally funded STEM researchers on how to engage and partner with afterschool STEM program providers and lend their time and expertise in afterschool programs that include STEM content; (3) information regarding how to create opportunities to have students visit laboratories; and (4) guidance regarding how to create age-appropriate research projects for students. SEC. 7. REPORT. By not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Director shall prepare and submit to Congress a report on Federal STEM investments in afterschool programs and the best practices for afterschool programs incorporating STEM subjects into their programs.

Summary: Supporting Afterschool STEM Act Requires the Director of the National Science Foundation (NSF) to establish an afterschool STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) grant program awarding competitive grants to afterschool or STEM networks to: develop quality standards for STEM programming in afterschool programs and provide those programs with technical assistance in implementing such standards, work with state education stakeholders to define and promote appropriate measurable outcomes for afterschool programs that include STEM content, provide technical assistance to afterschool programs to start or grow their afterschool STEM efforts and define appropriate learning outcomes for such efforts, coordinate professional development for afterschool program educators, help afterschool program providers form strategic partnerships to advance STEM learning in afterschool programs, create and disseminate tool kits to afterschool programs wanting to form partnerships and incorporate STEM professionals as mentors and role models, and provide technical assistance to federally funded STEM researchers and professionals who wish to engage with afterschool programs. Requires the Director to reserve 20% of the funds appropriated for such grant program to develop and support new afterschool or STEM networks in states or areas where they do not exist. Defines: (1) an "afterschool program" as a structured program offered for elementary, middle, or secondary school students when school is not in session, such as before or after school, on the weekend, or during the summer; and (2) an "afterschool or STEM network" as a coalition that fosters partnerships and provides support to afterschool program providers and STEM education providers. Includes as goals of the grant program: (1) to support the development and delivery of high-quality STEM education to populations underrepresented in STEM fields, and (2) to provide hands-on learning and exposure to STEM research facilities and businesses through in-person or virtual distance-learning experiences. Requires the Director to provide each recipient of a STEM research grant who is under the Director's authority with information on opportunities to engage with students in out-of-school-time programs, such as through mentorships.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Internet Freedom and Broadband Deployment Act of 1999''. SEC. 2. FINDINGS AND PURPOSE. (a) Findings.--Congress finds the following: (1) Internet access services are inherently interstate and international in nature, and should therefore not be subject to regulation by the States. (2) The imposition of regulations by the Federal Communications Commission and the States has impeded the rapid delivery of high speed Internet access services to the public, thereby reducing consumer choice and welfare. (3) The Telecommunications Act of 1996 represented a careful balance between the need to open up local telecommunications markets to competition and the need to increase competition in the provision of interLATA voice telecommunications services. (4) In enacting the prohibition on Bell operating company provision of interLATA services, Congress recognized that certain telecommunications services have characteristics that render them incompatible with the prohibition on Bell operating company provision of interLATA services, and exempted such services from the interLATA prohibition. (5) High speed data services and Internet access services constitute unique markets that are likewise incompatible with the prohibition on Bell operating company provision of interLATA services. (6) Since the enactment of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, the Federal Communications Commission has construed the prohibition on Bell operating company provision of interLATA services in a manner that has impeded the development of advanced telecommunications services, thereby limiting consumer choice and welfare. (7) Internet users should have choice among competing Internet service providers. (8) Internet service providers should have the right to interconnect with high speed data networks in order to provide service to Internet users. (b) Purposes.--It is therefore the purpose of this Act to provide market incentives for the rapid delivery of advanced telecommunications services-- (1) by deregulating high speed data services and Internet access services; (2) by clarifying that the prohibition on Bell operating company provision of interLATA services does not extend to the provision of high speed data services and Internet access services; (3) by ensuring that consumers can choose among competing Internet service providers; and (4) by ensuring that Internet service providers can interconnect with competitive high speed data networks in order to provide Internet access service to the public. SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS (a) Amendments.--Section 3 of the Communications Act of 1934 (47 U.S.C. 153) is amended-- (1) by redesignating paragraph (20) as paragraph (21); (2) by redesignating paragraphs (21) through (52) as paragraphs (24) through (54), respectively; (3) by inserting after paragraph (19) the following new paragraph: ``(20) High speed data service.--The term `high speed data service' means any service that consists of or includes the offering of a capability to transmit, using a packet-switched or successor technology, information at a rate that is generally not less than 384 kilobits per second in at least one direction.''; (4) by inserting after paragraph (22) the following new paragraphs: ``(23) Internet.--The term ``Internet'' means collectively the myriad of computer and telecommunications facilities, including equipment and operating software, which comprise the interconnected world-wide network of networks that employ the Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol, or any predecessor or successor protocols to such protocol, to communicate information of all kinds by wire or radio. ``(24) Internet Access Service.--The term `Internet access service' means (A) a service that combines computer processing, information storage, protocol conversion, and routing with transmission to enable users to access Internet content and services, and (B) the transmission of such service, but does not include the portion of such transmission from the user to the provider of such service.''. (b) Conforming Amendments.-- (1) Section 230(f) of the Communications Act of 1934 (47 U.S.C. 230(f)) is amended-- (A) by striking paragraph (1); and (B) by redesignating paragraphs (2) through (4) as paragraphs (1) through (3), respectively. (2) Section 223(h)(2) of such Act (47 U.S.C. 223(h)(2)) is amended by striking ``230(f)(2)'' and inserting ``230(f)(1)''. SEC. 4. LIMITATION ON AUTHORITY TO REGULATE HIGH SPEED DATA SERVICES. (a) In General.--Part I of title II of the Communications Act of 1934 (47 U.S.C. 201 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following new section: ``SEC. 232. PROVISION OF HIGH SPEED DATA SERVICES. ``(a) Freedom From Regulation.--Except to the extent that high speed data service and Internet access service are expressly referred to in this Act, neither the Commission, nor any State, shall have authority to regulate the rates, charges, terms, or conditions for, or entry into the provision of, any high speed data service or Internet access service, or to regulate the facilities used in the provision of either such service. ``(b) Savings Provision.--Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit or affect the authority of any State to regulate voice telephone exchange services, nor affect the rights of cable franchise authorities to establish requirements that are otherwise consistent with this Act. ``(c) Continued Enforcement of ESP Exemption, Universal Service Rules Permitted.--Nothing in this section shall affect the ability of the Commission to retain or modify-- ``(1) the exemption from interstate access charges for enhanced service providers under Part 69 of the Commission's Rules; or ``(2) rules issued pursuant to section 254.''. (b) Conforming Amendment.--Section 251 of the Communications Act of 1934 (47 U.S.C. 251) is amended by adding at the end thereof the following new subsection: ``(j) Exemption.-- ``(1) In general.--Notwithstanding the provisions of subsections (c) and (d), the Commission shall not require an incumbent local exchange carrier to-- ``(A) provide unbundled access to any network elements used in the provision of any high speed data service, other than those network elements described in section 51.319 of the Commission's regulations (47 C.F.R. 51.319), as in effect on January 1, 1999; or ``(B) offer for resale at wholesale rates any high speed data service. ``(2) Authority to reduce elements subject to requirement.--Paragraph (1)(A) shall not prohibit the Commission from modifying the regulation referred to in that paragraph to reduce the number of network elements subject to the unbundling requirement, or to forbear from enforcing any portion of that regulation in accordance with the Commission's authority under section 706 of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, notwithstanding any limitation on that authority in section 10 of this Act.''. SEC. 5. INTERNET CONSUMERS FREEDOM OF CHOICE. Part I of title II of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended by section 4, is amended by adding at the end the following new section: ``SEC. 233. INTERNET CONSUMERS FREEDOM OF CHOICE. ``(a) Purpose.--It is the purpose of this section to ensure that Internet users have freedom of choice of Internet service provider. ``(b) Obligations of Incumbent Local Exchange Carriers.--- Each incumbent local exchange carrier has the duty to provide-- ``(1) Internet users with the ability to subscribe to and have access to any Internet service provider that interconnects with such carrier's high speed data service; ``(2) any Internet service provider with the right to acquire the facilities and services necessary to interconnect with such carrier's high speed data service for the provision of Internet access service; and ``(3) any Internet service provider with the ability to collocate equipment in accordance with the provisions of section 251, to the extent necessary to achieve the objectives of paragraphs (1) and (2) of this subsection. ``(c) Definitions.--As used in this section-- ``(1) Internet service provider.--The term `Internet service provider' means any provider of Internet access service. ``(2) Incumbent local exchange carrier.--The term `incumbent local exchange carrier' has the same meaning as provided in section 251(h).''. SEC. 6. INCIDENTAL INTERLATA PROVISION OF HIGH SPEED DATA AND INTERNET ACCESS SERVICES. (a) Incidental InterLATA Service Premitted.--Section 271(g) of the Communications Act of 1934 (47 U.S.C. 271(g)) is amended-- (1) by striking ``or'' at the end of paragraph (5); (2) by striking the period at the end of paragraph (6) and inserting ``; or''; and (3) by adding at the end thereof the following new paragraph: ``(7) of high speed data service or Internet access service.''. (b) Prohibition on Marketing Voice Services.--Section 271 of such Act is amended by adding at the end thereof the following new subsection: ``(k) Prohibition on Marketing Voice Telephone Services.--Until the date on which a Bell operating company is authorized to offer interLATA services originating in an in-region State in accordance with the provisions of this section, such Bell operating company offering any high speed data service or Internet access service pursuant to the provisions of paragraph (7) of subsection (g) may not, in such in- region State market, bill, or collect for interLATA voice telecommunications service obtained by means of the high speed data service or Internet access service provided by such company.''. (c) Conforming Amendments.-- (1) Section 272(a)(2)(B)(i) of such Act is amended to read as follows: ``(i) incidental interLATA services described in paragraphs (1), (2), (3), (5), (6), and (7) of section 271(g).''. (2) Section 272(a)(2)(C) of such Act is repealed.

Summary: Internet Freedom and Broadband Deployment Act of 1999 - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to define "high speed data service" as a service capable of transmitting electronic information at a rate generally not less than 384 kilobits per second in at least one direction. Prohibits the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and each State, except as expressly provided in this Act, from regulating the rates, charges, terms or conditions for, or entry into the provision of, any high speed data service or Internet access service, or to regulate the facilities used in the provision of such service. Prohibits the FCC from requiring an incumbent (established) local exchange carrier to: (1) provide unbundled access to any network elements used in the provision of any high speed data service, other than those elements described in FCC regulations; or (2) offer for resale at wholesale rates any high speed data service. States that nothing in this Act shall: (1) limit or affect the authority of any State to regulate voice telephone exchange services; (2) affect the ability of the FCC to retain or modify the exemption from interstate access charges for enhanced service providers; or (3) prohibit the FCC from modifying the regulation concerning the number of networks subject to its unbundling requirement. Requires each incumbent local exchange carrier to provide: (1) Internet users with the ability to subscribe to and have access to any Internet service provider that interconnects with such carrier's high speed data service; (2) any Internet service provider with the right to acquire necessary facilities and services to facilitate such interconnection; and (3) any Internet service provider with the ability to collocate equipment in order to achieve such interconnection. Includes high speed data service or Internet access service within the definition of "incidental interLATA services" permitted for a Bell operating company (BOC). States that, until the date a BOC is authorized to offer interLATA services originating in an in-region State, such BOC offering any high speed data service or Internet access service may not, in such State, bill or collect for interLATA voice telecommunications service obtained by means of such high speed data or Internet access service provided by such company.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Universal Access to Affordable Insurance for all Americans Act of 2004''. SEC. 2. EXTENSION OF FEDERAL EMPLOYEE HEALTH INSURANCE. (a) In General.--Subpart G of part III of title 5, United States Code, is amended by inserting after chapter 89 the following: ``CHAPTER 89A--HEALTH INSURANCE FOR NON-FEDERAL EMPLOYEES ``Sec. ``8951. Definitions. ``8952. Health insurance for non-Federal employees. ``8953. Contract requirement. ``8954. Eligibility of non-Federal employees. ``8955. Alternative conditions to Federal employee health benefits plans. ``Sec. 8951. Definitions ``In this chapter-- ``(1) the terms defined under section 8901 shall have the meanings given such terms under that section; and ``(2) the term `Office' means the Office of Personnel Management. ``Sec. 8952. Health insurance for non-Federal employees ``(a) The Office of Personnel Management shall administer a health insurance program for non-Federal employees in accordance with this chapter. ``(b) Except as provided under this chapter, the Office shall prescribe regulations to apply the provisions of chapter 89 to the greatest extent practicable to eligible individuals covered under this chapter. ``Sec. 8953. Contract requirement ``(a) In each calendar year, the Office shall enter into a contract with 1 or more carriers to make available 1 or more health benefits plans (subject to the provisions of this chapter) to eligible individuals under this chapter. ``(b) In carrying out this section, the Office may require 1 or more carriers to enter into a contract described in subsection (a), as a condition of entering into a contract under section 8902. ``Sec. 8954. Eligibility of non-Federal employees ``(a) Except as provided under subsection (b), any individual may enroll in a health benefits plan under this section. ``(b) An individual may not enroll in a health benefits plan under this chapter, if the individual-- ``(1) is 65 years of age or older; ``(2) is enrolled or eligible to enroll for coverage under a public health insurance program, including coverage under title XVIII of the Social Security Act, coverage under a State plan under title XIX of such Act, coverage under a State plan under title XX of such Act, or coverage under any other program determined by the Office; ``(3) is enrolled or eligible to enroll in a plan under chapter 89; or ``(4) is a member of the uniformed services as defined under section 101(a)(5) of title 10. ``Sec. 8955. Alternative conditions to Federal employee health benefits plans ``(a) Rates charged and premiums paid for a health benefits plan under this chapter may differ between or among geographic regions. ``(b) No Government contribution shall be made for any individual under this chapter. ``(c) In the administration of this chapter, the Office shall ensure that individuals covered under this chapter shall be in a risk pool that is separate from the risk pool maintained for individuals covered under chapter 89.''. (b) Technical and Conforming Amendments.-- (1) Contract requirement under chapter 89.--Section 8902 of title 5, United States Code, is amended by adding after subsection (o) the following: ``(p) Each contract under this chapter may include, at the discretion of the Office, a provision that the carrier shall enter into a contract to provide 1 or more health benefits plans as described under chapter 89A.''. (2) Table of chapters.--The table of chapters for part III of title 5, United States Code, is amended by inserting after the item relating to chapter 89 the following: ``89A. Health Insurance for Non-Federal Employees........... 8951''. (c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall take effect on the date of enactment of this Act and shall apply to contracts that take effect with respect to the calendar year following such date of enactment. SEC. 3. CREDIT FOR HEALTH INSURANCE COSTS OF CERTAIN NON-FEDERAL EMPLOYEES. (a) In General.--Subpart C of part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to refundable credits) is amended by redesignating section 36 as section 37 and inserting after section 35 the following new section: ``SEC. 36. HEALTH INSURANCE COSTS OF CERTAIN NON-FEDERAL EMPLOYEES. ``(a) In General.--In the case of an individual, there shall be allowed as a credit against the tax imposed by subtitle A for the taxable year an amount equal to the applicable percentage of the amount paid during such taxable year by the taxpayer for coverage of the taxpayer and family members under the health insurance plan established under chapter 89A of title 5, United States Code. ``(b) Applicable Percentage.--For purposes of subsection (a)-- ``(1) In general.--The applicable percentage shall be determined in accordance with the table under paragraph (2). ``(2) Determination of applicable percentage.-- ``In the case of any taxpayer whose The applicable percentage is-- family income is the following percentage of the poverty line-- Not more than 100 percent..................... 100 percent More than 100, but not more than 200 percent.. 65 percent More than 200, but not more than 300 percent.. 40 percent More than 300, but not more than 400 percent.. 30 percent More than 400 percent......................... 0 percent. ``(3) Poverty line.--For purposes of paragraph (2), the term `poverty line' means the poverty line as defined in section 673(2) of the Community Services Block Grant Act, for a family of the size involved. ``(c) Special Rules.-- ``(1) Coordination with advance payments of credit.--With respect to any taxable year, the amount which would (but for this subsection) be allowed as a credit to the taxpayer under subsection (a) shall be reduced (but not below zero) by the aggregate amount paid on behalf of such taxpayer under section 7528 for such taxable year. ``(2) Coordination with other deductions.--Amounts taken into account under subsection (a) shall not be taken into account in determining any deduction allowed under section 162(l) or 213. ``(3) Treatment of payments.--For purposes of this section, payments made by the Secretary on behalf of any individual under section 7528 (relating to advance payment of credit for health insurance costs of eligible individuals) shall be treated as having been made by the taxpayer. ``(4) Regulations.--The Secretary may prescribe such regulations and other guidance as may be necessary or appropriate to carry out this section and section 7528.''. (b) Advance Payment of Credit.--Chapter 77 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to miscellaneous provisions) is amended by adding at the end the following new section: ``SEC. 7528. ADVANCE PAYMENT OF CREDIT FOR HEALTH INSURANCE COSTS OF CERTAIN NON-FEDERAL EMPLOYEES. ``Not later than August 1, 2004, the Secretary shall establish a program for making payments on behalf of individuals described in section 36(a) to the health insurance plan established under chapter 89A of title 5, United States Code.''. (c) Conforming Amendments.-- (1) Paragraph (2) of section 1324(b) of title 31, United States Code, is amended by inserting before the period ``, or from section 36 of such Code''. (2) The table of sections for subpart C of part IV of chapter 1 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by striking the last item and inserting the following new items: ``Sec. 36. Health insurance costs of certain non-Federal employees. ``Sec. 37. Overpayments of tax.''. (3) The table of sections for chapter 77 of such Code is amended by adding at the end the following new item: ``Sec. 7528. Advance payment of credit for health insurance costs of certain non-Federal employees.''. (d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall apply to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2004. SEC. 4. PLAN FOR EXTENSION OF FEDERAL EMPLOYEE HEALTH BENEFITS PROGRAM. Not later than 6 months after the date of enactment of this Act and after consultation with appropriate experts, representatives of affected individuals, and Federal officers, the Director of the Office of Personnel Management shall submit a comprehensive plan to Congress that-- (1) provides for the orderly implementation of the amendments made by this Act; and (2) includes a schedule of actions to be taken to provide for that implementation.

Summary: Universal Access to Affordable Health Insurance for all Americans Act of 2004 - Directs the Office of Personnel Management to: (1) administer a health insurance program for non-Federal employees; and (2) enter into contracts with carriers to make health benefits plans available to eligible individuals. Allows the Office to require carriers to offer such a plan to be eligible to enter into a contract for a Federal Employees Health Benefit (FEHB) plan. Prohibits individuals from joining the plan that are: (1) 65 years of age or older; (2) eligible to enroll for coverage under a public health insurance program; (3) eligible to enroll in a FEHB plan; or (4) members of the uniformed services. Allows rates charged and premiums paid for such a plan to differ among geographic regions. Prohibits any Government contribution to such plans. Requires the Office to keep individuals under such plans in a separate risk pool from individuals covered under a FEHB plan. Amends the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide for refundable credits for payments made to such plans. Provides for full credit for those below the poverty line, and gradually decreasing credit based on individual income. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to make advance payments to such a plan on behalf of an enrollee equal to the Secretary's estimate of the amount of credit allowable for the enrollee.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Native American Commercial Driving Training and Technical Assistance Act''. SEC. 2. FINDINGS AND PURPOSES. (a) Findings.--Congress finds that-- (1) despite the availability of abundant natural resources on land under the jurisdiction of Indian tribes and the existence of a rich cultural legacy that accords great value to self-determination, self-reliance, and independence, Native Americans suffer higher rates of unemployment, poverty, poor health, substandard housing, and associated social problems than any other group in the United States; (2) the United States has an obligation to assist Native American communities in the establishment of appropriate economic and political conditions; (3) the economic success and material well-being of Indian communities depend on the combined efforts of the Federal Government, tribal governments, the private sector, and individuals; (4) commercial vehicle driving programs are currently offered at several tribal colleges and universities; (5) the American Trucking Association reports that at least until 2005, the trucking industry will need to hire 403,000 truck drivers each year to fill vacant positions; (6) according to the Federal Government Occupational Handbook, the commercial vehicle driving industry is expected to expand at the average rate of expansion for all occupations through the year 2008 because of economic growth and an increase in the quantity of freight carried by trucks; and (7) a career in commercial vehicle driving offers a competitive salary, employment benefits, job security, and a profession. (b) Purposes.--The purposes of this Act are-- (1) to foster and promote job creation and economic opportunities for Native Americans; and (2) to provide education, technical, and training assistance to Native Americans who are interested in commercial vehicle driving careers. SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS. In this Act: (1) Commercial vehicle driving.--The term ``commercial vehicle driving'' means the driving of-- (A) a vehicle that is a tractor-trailer truck; or (B) any other vehicle (such as a bus or a vehicle used for the purpose of construction) the driving of which requires a commercial license. (2) Indian tribe.--The term ``Indian tribe'' has the meaning given the term in section 4 of the Indian Self- Determination and Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 450b). (3) Native american.--The term ``Native American'' means an individual who is a member of-- (A) an Indian tribe; or (B) any people or culture that is indigenous to the United States, as determined by the Secretary. (4) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary of Labor. SEC. 4. COMMERCIAL VEHICLE DRIVING TRAINING PROGRAM. (a) Grants.--The Secretary may provide grants, on a competitive basis, to entities described in subsection (b) to support programs providing training and certificates leading to the licensing of Native Americans with respect to commercial vehicle driving. (b) Eligibility.--To be eligible to receive a grant under subsection (a), an entity shall-- (1) be a tribal college or university (as defined in section 316(b)(3) of the Higher Education Act (20 U.S.C. 1059(b)(3)); and (2) prepare and submit to the Secretary an application at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may require. (c) Priority.--In providing grants under subsection (a), the Secretary shall give priority to grant applications that-- (1) propose training that exceeds proposed minimum standards for training tractor-trailer drivers of the Department of Transportation; (2) propose training that exceeds the entry level truck driver certification standards set by the Professional Truck Driver Institute; and (3) propose an education partnership with a private trucking firm, trucking association, or similar entity in order to ensure the effectiveness of the grant program under this section. (d) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as are necessary to carry out this Act. Passed the Senate September 17, 2002. Attest: Secretary. 107th CONGRESS 2d Session S. 1344 _______________________________________________________________________ AN ACT To provide training and technical assistance to Native Americans who are interested in commercial vehicle driving careers.

Summary: Native American Commercial Driving Training and Technical Assistance Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Labor to award grants to eligible entities (tribal colleges and universities) to support commercial vehicle (tractor-trailer truck) driving training programs.Requires the Secretary to give priority to grant applications that propose: (1) training that exceeds proposed minimum standards for training tractor-trailer drivers of the Department of Transportation; (2) training that exceeds the entry level truck driver certification standards set by the Professional Truck Driver Institute; and (3) education partnerships with private trucking firms, trucking associations, or similar entities.Authorizes appropriations.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``In-Home Caregiver Assessment Resources and Education Act'' or the ``In-Home CARE Act''. SEC. 2. FINDINGS. Congress finds the following: (1) More than 43,000,000 unpaid caregivers provide care for a chronically ill, disabled, or aged family member or friend during any given year. (2) Sixty percent of unpaid caregivers are women. More than 37 percent of caregivers live with children or grandchildren who are under 18 years old. (3) Ethnic minority caregivers, particularly African- American and Hispanic-American caregivers, experience greater strain and worse physical health than their counterparts. More than 50 percent of African Americans are ``sandwiched'' between caring for an older person and a younger person under age 18. (4) The needs of caregivers and care recipients vary by several factors such as race and ethnicity, age, social class, sexual orientation, geographical location, gender, military or veteran status, relationship between caregiver and care recipient, health status, and other factors. (5) Unpaid family caregivers spend an average of 24 hours per week caring for their loved ones, and about 23 percent of family caregivers provide 41 or more hours of care per week. (6) Forty-nine percent of caregivers care for a parent. (7) Fourteen percent of caregivers provide care for a special needs child, including an estimated 16,800,000 caregivers who care for a special needs child under 18 years of age. (8) In 2016, the average caregiver for someone 18 years or older spent $6,954 per year on out-of-pocket caregiving expenses, which is nearly 20 percent of the average annual income of caregivers. (9) Sixty percent of caregivers who provide care for an individual over the age of 18 are currently working or have worked while providing care. Three in five caregivers have had to make some modifications to their work schedule, from arriving late to work to leaving their job entirely. Almost half of employed caregivers have had to take time off from work. (10) Fifty-three percent of caregivers have experienced a decline in their health as a result of caregiving, which has affected their ability to provide care. Thirty-five percent of caregivers report having difficulty finding time for oneself, and 29 percent report difficulty managing emotional and physical stress or balancing work and family responsibilities. (11) Forty-six percent of caregivers of adults perform medical or nursing tasks for patients with multiple physical and chronic conditions. Of these caregivers, 78 percent were in charge of managing a patient's medications, administering fluids, or administering injections. (12) Nearly 20 percent of caregivers of adults who assisted with medication management and 33 percent who assisted with changing dressings or bandages received no training about how to perform these tasks. (13) The vast majority of caregivers (84 percent) indicated they need more support related to caregiving. (14) Home visiting programs are cost-effective and have been proven to improve outcomes for children and parents in different domains ranging from child development to family violence. SEC. 3. PURPOSES. The purposes of this Act are-- (1) to improve the ability of unpaid caregivers to care for individuals in the home; and (2) to increase opportunities for individuals who are in need of care to remain at home and reduce or postpone the need for such individuals to receive care at an institution or hospital. SEC. 4. CAREGIVER GRANTS. Subpart IV of part D of title III of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 255 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following: ``SEC. 339A. CAREGIVER GRANTS. ``(a) In General.--The Secretary, acting through the Administrator of the Administration for Community Living, shall award 3-year grants, on a competitive basis, to eligible organizations to carry out home visiting programs for unpaid caregivers. ``(b) Definitions.--In this section: ``(1) Caregiver.--The term `caregiver' means an unpaid family member, foster parent, or other unpaid adult who provides consistent in-home monitoring, management, supervision, or treatment of a child or adult with a special need, such as a disease, disability, or the frailties of old age. ``(2) Caregiver assessment.--The term `caregiver assessment' means an assessment that includes talking directly to caregivers to better understand their needs, problems, resources, and strengths. ``(3) Child or adult with a special need.--The term `child or adult with a special need' means an individual for whom care or supervision is required to-- ``(A) meet the basic needs of the individual; ``(B) prevent physical self-injury or injury to others; or ``(C) avoid placement in an institutional facility. ``(4) Eligible organization.--The term `eligible organization' means-- ``(A) a local government agency; ``(B) a health care entity; or ``(C) any other nonprofit or community organization, that has experience providing the services described in subsection (f). ``(c) Coordination.--In carrying out this section, the Secretary shall coordinate with-- ``(1) the heads of the National Family Caregiver Support Program of the Administration on Aging and other programs within the Department of Health and Human Services (such as the Lifespan Respite Care Program) and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, to ensure coordination of caregiver services for caregivers of children or adults with special needs; and ``(2) the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, to avoid duplicative services and payments. ``(d) Application.--An eligible organization that desires a grant under this section shall submit an application at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may require, including, at a minimum-- ``(1) an outreach plan that identifies how the eligible organization will ascertain which caregivers in the community-- ``(A) are most in need of support and education, particularly caregivers who have had no training and provide complex chronic care activities or perform medical or nursing tasks in addition to assisting with activities of daily living; ``(B) are caring for individuals who are at the greatest risk of needing institutional care; and ``(C) desire to participate in the caregiver home visiting program; ``(2) a description of the services that the eligible organization will provide directly using grant funds, and a description of the services that the eligible organization will use grant funds to provide through contracts or referrals; ``(3) a description of how the eligible organization will identify gaps in the services that caregivers and children or adults with a special need who receive care from a caregiver in the community are receiving; ``(4) a description of how the eligible organization can provide-- ``(A) an initial visit to caregivers in order to complete a caregiver assessment, including a description of the eligible organization's expertise in conducting caregiver assessments; ``(B) education and training, based on evidence- based models, to help the caregiver learn how to best care for a child or adult with a special need, by an individual with expertise in the tasks for which the caregiver requires education and training, including education and training regarding, as applicable-- ``(i) medication management; ``(ii) wound care; ``(iii) nutrition and food preparation for special diets; ``(iv) fall prevention; ``(v) management of depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, and other behavioral health conditions, including ways to minimize negative mental health effects; ``(vi) assistance with activities of daily living; ``(vii) ways to engage other family members in providing care; ``(viii) ways to identify and utilize available community resources; and ``(ix) abuse and neglect prevention; and ``(C) recommendations for home modifications or physical environmental changes that could improve the health or quality of life of a child or adult with a special need who is receiving care from a caregiver; ``(5) a description of the eligible organization's ability to provide, or refer caregivers to local resources or appropriate programs of the Department of Health and Human Services or the Department of Veterans Affairs that will provide-- ``(A) physical and mental health care, including home health care and long-term support services; ``(B) transportation; ``(C) home modification services; ``(D) respite care; ``(E) adult day care; ``(F) support groups; and ``(G) legal assistance; ``(6) a description of the eligible organization's ability to coordinate with other State and community-based agencies; ``(7) a description of the eligible organization's understanding of caregiver issues-- ``(A) across demographic groups, including age, gender, race and ethnicity, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, military status, and geographical region; and ``(B) including disabilities and chronic conditions that affect the populations that the eligible organization will serve; ``(8) a description of the capacity of the eligible organization to engage caregivers, family members, and children or adults with a special need who receive care from a caregiver; and ``(9) with respect to the population of caregivers to whom caregiver visits or services will be provided, or for whom workers and volunteers will be recruited and trained, a description of-- ``(A) the population of caregivers; ``(B) the extent and nature of the needs of that population; and ``(C) existing caregiver services for that population, including the number of caregivers served and the extent of unmet need. ``(e) Priority.--In awarding grants under this section, the Secretary shall give priority to eligible organizations that-- ``(1) the Secretary determines show the greatest likelihood of implementing or enhancing caregiver home visiting services that best meet the needs of the community; ``(2) will allow caregivers to contact the eligible organization by phone, email, or 2-way interactive video for up to 6 months after home visits have ended, or to otherwise contact the organization at any time if a caregiver has questions or concerns; ``(3) have a proven record of caregiver support; ``(4) will use evidence-based programs; or ``(5) will provide matching funds or can demonstrate that the program funded by a grant under this section will be sustainable after grant funds are no longer provided. ``(f) Authorized Activities.--An eligible organization receiving a grant under this section shall use grant funds to-- ``(1) conduct an initial home visit for each caregiver participating in the program, during which a representative from the eligible organization who has expertise in care management in the home and caregiving will perform a caregiver assessment and determine what follow-up services may benefit the caregiver and the child or adult with a special need who receives care from the caregiver; ``(2) conduct home visits for the purpose of caregiver education and training; ``(3) provide, or provide referrals for, the services described in subsection (d)(5); ``(4) provide an assessment and referral for physical and mental health services for the caregiver and for the child or adult with a special need who receives care from the caregiver, as needed; and ``(5) carry out any other activities that are described in the grant application submitted under subsection (d). ``(g) Technical Assistance Center.--The Secretary shall establish, or contract to establish, a technical assistance center through which the Secretary shall-- ``(1) provide evidence-based models for programs funded by grants under this section; ``(2) provide training for grantees; ``(3) answer questions from grantees; and ``(4) facilitate an exchange of information among grantees, and between grantees and other programs within the Department of Health and Human Services, including through use of the Technical Assistance Exchange of the Administration for Community Living, in order to maximize the use of existing resources and services for caregivers and to avoid the duplication of such services. ``(h) Evaluation.-- ``(1) In general.--Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this section, and annually thereafter, the Secretary shall evaluate the success of the grant program carried out under this section, based on criteria that the Secretary may develop for such evaluation. ``(2) Optional contents of evaluation.--The evaluation described in paragraph (1) may include an evaluation of-- ``(A) the extent to which children or adults with a special need who are cared for by a participating caregiver have-- ``(i) a reduction in the potential number of hospitalizations; ``(ii) a reduction in the potential number of institutionalizations; ``(iii) cost reductions across the health care system; ``(iv) improved connection to community resources; ``(v) improved care; and ``(vi) improved quality of life (including a reduction of stress and anxiety and improved relationships and mood); and ``(B) the extent to which participating caregivers have improved quality of life (including a reduction of stress and anxiety and improved health, relationships, mood, and connection to community resources). ``(i) Reports and Recommendations.--Not later than 1 year before the expiration of the grants awarded under this section, the Secretary shall prepare and submit a report to Congress that includes recommendations, based on the evaluation described in subsection (h), about-- ``(1) changes to the grant program under this section; ``(2) the potential for expanding the number and scope of caregiver home visiting program grants distributed by the Secretary; and ``(3) extending the length of the grant program. ``(j) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section such sums as may be necessary.''.

Summary: In-Home Caregiver Assessment Resources and Education Act or the In-Home CARE Act This bill amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Administration for Community Living to award grants to carry out home visiting programs for unpaid caregivers. The Department of Health and Human Services must coordinate with the National Family Caregiver Support Program, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and others on this grant program. Grantees must provide: caregiver education and training regarding medication management, food preparation, falls prevention, and other subjects; services or referrals for services related to home care, such as transportation, home modification, or respite care; and an assessment and referral for physical and mental health services for the caregiver or person receiving care from the caregiver.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Liquefied Natural Gas Safety and Security Act of 2005''. SEC. 2. SITING OF LIQUEFIED NATURAL GAS IMPORT FACILITIES. Section 3 of the Natural Gas Act (15 U.S.C. 717b) is amended by adding at the end the following: ``(d)(1) Before issuing an order authorizing an applicant to site, construct, expand, or operate a liquefied natural gas import facility, the Commission shall require the applicant, in cooperation with the Commandant of the Coast Guard and State and local agencies that provide for the safety and security of the liquefied natural gas import facility and any vessels that serve the facility, to develop a cost- sharing plan. ``(2) A cost-sharing plan developed under paragraph (1) shall include a description of any direct cost reimbursements that the applicant agrees to provide to any State and local agencies with responsibility for security and safety-- ``(A) at the liquefied natural gas import facility; and ``(B) in proximity to vessels that serve the facility. ``(e)(1) In this subsection, the term `region' means a census region designated by the Bureau of the Census as of the date of enactment of this subsection. ``(2) Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this subsection and annually thereafter, the Commission shall-- ``(A) review all applications for the siting, construction, expansion, or operation of a liquefied natural gas import facility in a region that are pending with the Commission; ``(B) consult with States in the region to identify remote sites for the development of potential liquefied natural gas import facilities in the region; and ``(C) in collaboration with the Commandant of the Coast Guard, review-- ``(i) any offshore liquefied natural gas projects proposed for a region; and ``(ii) other potential offshore sites for the development of liquefied natural gas. ``(3) Based on the reviews and consultations under paragraph (1), the Commission shall determine-- ``(A) whether liquefied natural gas import facilities are needed in a region; and ``(B) if the Commission determines under subparagraph (A) that liquefied natural gas import facilities are needed for a region, the number of liquefied natural gas import facilities that are needed for the region. ``(4) The Commission shall cooperate with the Commandant of the Coast Guard and States to ensure that-- ``(A) the Commission approves only the number of liquefied natural gas import facilities that are needed for a region, as determined under paragraph (3)(B); and ``(B) any liquefied natural gas import facilities approved under subparagraph (A) are sited in locations that provide maximum safety and security to the public. ``(f)(1) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Commission shall not issue a final environmental impact statement or similar analysis required under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) with respect to a proposed liquefied natural gas facility before the date on which-- ``(A) the applicant completes-- ``(i) a security assessment for the proposed facility; and ``(ii) a security plan for the proposed facility; and ``(B) the Commandant of the Coast Guard completes an incident action plan that identifies the resources needed to support appropriate air, land, and sea security measures during the transit and offload of a liquefied natural gas vessel. ``(2) The Commission shall incorporate into the final environmental impact statement or similar analysis the non-security sensitive components of the incident action plan and all other safety and security resource requirements identified by the Commandant of the Coast Guard for a proposed liquefied natural gas import facility. ``(g)(1) For purposes of reviewing and approving or disapproving an application to site, construct, or operate a liquefied natural gas import facility, the Commission shall-- ``(A) consult with the State in which the facility is proposed to be located; and ``(B) comply with all applicable Federal laws, including-- ``(i) the National Historic Preservation Act (16 U.S.C. 470 et seq.); ``(ii) the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 (16 U.S.C. 1451 et seq.); ``(iii) sections 401 and 402(b) of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1341, 1342(b)); and ``(iv) sections 107, 111(c), and 116 of the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7401, 7411(c), 7416). ``(2) Nothing in this section precludes or denies the right of any State to review an application to site, construct, or operate a liquefied natural gas import facility under-- ``(A) the National Historic Preservation Act (16 U.S.C. 470 et seq.); ``(B) the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 (16 U.S.C. 1451 et seq.); ``(C) sections 401 and 402(b) of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1341, 1342(b)); and ``(D) sections 107, 111(c), and 116 of the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7401, 7411(c), 7416). ``(3) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Commission shall have no authority to preempt a State permitting determination with respect to a liquefied natural gas import facility that is made under Federal or State law.''. SEC. 3. STANDARDS FOR LIQUEFIED NATURAL GAS PIPELINE FACILITIES. Section 60103 of title 49, United States Code, is amended-- (1) by redesignating subsections (e), (f), and (g) as subsections (f), (g), and (h), respectively; and (2) by inserting after subsection (d) the following: ``(e) Remote Siting Standards.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall promulgate regulations establishing standards to promote the remote siting of liquefied natural gas pipeline facilities.''. SEC. 4. THERMAL AND VAPOR DISPERSION EXCLUSION ZONES. As soon as practicable after the date of enactment of this Act, the Commandant of the Coast Guard shall issue regulations establishing thermal and vapor dispersion exclusion zone requirements for vessels transporting liquefied natural gas that are based on sections 193.2057 and 193.2059 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations (or any successor regulations).

Summary: Liquefied Natural Gas Safety and Security Act of 2005 - Amends the Natural Gas Act to prohibit the Federal Energy Regulating Commission (FERC) from authorizing an applicant to site, construct, expand, or operate a liquefied natural gas import facility, unless FERC has required the applicant to develop a cost-sharing plan in cooperation with the Commandant of the Coast Guard and State and local agencies that provide for the safety and security of the liquefied natural gas import facility and any vessels that serve it. Requires FERC to review annually all pending applications for the siting, construction, expansion, or operation of a liquefied natural gas import facility in a region and, after consultation with the pertinent States and the Commandant, determine: (1) whether liquefied natural gas import facilities are needed in a region; and (2) the number of liquefied natural gas import facilities so needed. Denies FERC authority to preempt a State permitting determination related to a liquefied natural gas import facility. Amends Federal law governing standards for liquefied natural gas pipeline facilities to direct the Secretary of Transportation to promulgate regulations establishing standards to promote the remote siting of liquefied natural gas pipeline facilities. Directs the Commandant to issue regulations establishing thermal and vapor dispersion exclusion zone requirements for vessels transporting liquefied natural gas.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Prescription Drug Labeling Promotion Act of 2012''. SEC. 2. ACCESSIBILITY OF INFORMATION IN PRESCRIPTION DRUG LABELING BY VISUALLY-IMPAIRED AND BLIND CONSUMERS. (a) Establishment of Working Group.-- (1) In general.--The Secretary of Health and Human Services (in this section referred to as the ``Secretary'') shall establish a working group (in this section referred to as the ``working group'') to develop and promulgate guidance constituting best practices on access to prescription drug labeling for the visually impaired. (2) Members.--The working group shall include representatives of national organizations representing blind and visually impaired individuals, national organizations representing the elderly, and industry groups representing stakeholders, including pharmacists, who would be impacted by such best practices. Representation within the working group shall be divided equally between consumer and industry advocates. (3) Guidance on best practices.--The working group shall promulgate, not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act, guidance on best practices for pharmacies to ensure that blind and visually impaired individuals have safe, consistent, reliable, and independent access to the information in the labeling of prescription drugs. Such guidance shall be made available through publication in the Federal Register and posting on the Web site of the Food and Drug Administration. (4) Considerations.--In developing and promulgating such guidance on best practices, the working group shall consider-- (A) the use of-- (i) Braille; (ii) auditory means, such as-- (I) ``talking bottles'' that provide audible label information; (II) digital voice recorders attached to the prescription drug container; and (III) radio frequency identification (RFID) tags; and (iii) enhanced visual means, such as-- (I) large font labels or large font ``duplicate'' labels that are affixed or matched to a prescription drug container; (II) high-contrast printing; and (III) sans-serf font; (B) whether there are technical, financial, manpower, or other factors unique to pharmacies with 20 or fewer retail locations which may fundamentally impact the ability of such pharmacies to implement the best practices; and (C) such other factors as the working group determines to be appropriate. (5) Information campaign.--Upon the promulgation of the guidance on best practices, the Commissioner of Food and Drugs, in consultation with the working group, shall conduct an informational and educational program designed to inform the public and pharmacists about such guidance and practices. (6) FACA waiver.--The Federal Advisory Committee Act shall not apply to the working group. (b) GAO Study.-- (1) In general.--Beginning 18 months after the publication of the guidance on best practices under subsection (a), the Comptroller General of the United States shall conduct a review of such guidance, the extent to which pharmacies are complying with such best practices, and the extent to which barriers to accessible prescription drug labeling for blind and visually- impaired individuals continue. (2) Report.--Not later than September 30, 2016, the Comptroller General shall submit to Congress a report on the review conducted under paragraph (1). Such report shall include recommendations for how best to reduce the barriers blind and visually-impaired individuals have to access prescription drug labeling. (c) Definitions.--In this section: (1) The term ``pharmacy'' includes a pharmacy that receives prescriptions, and dispenses prescription drugs, through an Internet Web site. (2) The term ``prescription drug'' means a drug subject to section 503(b)(1) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 353(b)(1)).

Summary: Prescription Drug Labeling Promotion Act of 2012 - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to establish a working group to develop best practices on access to prescription drug labeling for the visually impaired. Requires the working group to: (1) include equal representation of consumer and industry advocates; (2) promulgate guidance on best practices for pharmacies to ensure that blind and visually impaired individuals have safe, consistent, reliable, and independent access to the information in the labeling of prescription drugs; (3) consider the use of Braille, specified auditory means, and enhanced visual means to provide such access; and (4) consider whether there are technical, financial, manpower, or other factors that may fundamentally impact the ability of pharmacies with 20 or fewer retail locations to implement the best practices. Directs the Commissioner of Food and Drugs (FDA) to conduct an informational and educational program to inform the public and pharmacists about such guidance and practices. Directs the Comptroller General: (1) 18 months after such guidance and practices are published, to review pharmacy compliance and the extent to which access barriers continue; and (2) by September 30, 2016, to report on such review, including recommendations for reducing such barriers.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Religious Liberty and Charitable Donation Protection Act of 1997''. SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS. Section 548(d) of title 11, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: ``(3) In this section, the term `charitable contribution' means a charitable contribution, as that term is defined in section 170(c) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, if that contribution-- ``(A) is made by a natural person; and ``(B) consists of-- ``(i) a financial instrument (as that term is defined in section 731(c)(2)(C) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986); or ``(ii) cash. ``(4) In this section, the term `qualified religious or charitable entity or organization' means-- ``(A) an entity described in section 170(c)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986; or ``(B) an entity or organization described in section 170(c)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.''. SEC. 3. TREATMENT OF PREPETITION QUALIFIED CHARITABLE CONTRIBUTIONS. (a) In General.--Section 548(a) of title 11, United States Code, is amended-- (1) by inserting ``(1)'' after ``(a)''; (2) by striking ``(1) made'' and inserting ``(A) made''; (3) by striking ``(2)(A)'' and inserting ``(B)(i); (4) by striking ``(B)(i)'' and inserting ``(ii)(I)''; (5) by striking ``(ii) was'' and inserting ``(II) was''; (6) by striking ``(iii)'' and inserting ``(III)''; and (7) by adding at the end the following: ``(2) A transfer of a charitable contribution to a qualified religious or charitable entity or organization shall not be considered to be a transfer covered under paragraph (1)(B) in any case in which-- ``(A) the amount of that contribution does not exceed 15 percent of the gross annual income of the debtor for the year in which the transfer of the contribution is made; or ``(B) the contribution made by a debtor exceeded the percentage amount of gross annual income specified in subparagraph (A), if the transfer was consistent with the practices of the debtor in making charitable contributions.''. (b) Trustee as Lien Creditor and as Successor to Certain Creditors and Purchasers.--Section 544(b) of title 11, United States Code, is amended-- (1) by striking ``(b) The trustee'' and inserting ``(b)(1) Except as provided in paragraph (2), the trustee''; and (2) by adding at the end the following: ``(2) Paragraph (1) shall not apply to a transfer of a charitable contribution (as that term is defined in section 548(d)(3)) that is not covered under section 548(a)(1)(B), by reason of section 548(a)(2).''. (c) Conforming Amendments.--Section 546 of title 11, United States Code, is amended-- (1) in subsection (e)-- (A) by striking ``548(a)(2)'' and inserting ``548(a)(1)(B)''; and (B) by striking ``548(a)(1)'' and inserting ``548(a)(1)(A)''; (2) in subsection (f)-- (A) by striking ``548(a)(2)'' and inserting ``548(a)(1)(B)''; and (B) by striking ``548(a)(1)'' and inserting ``548(a)(1)(A)''; and (3) in subsection (g)-- (A) by striking ``section 548(a)(1)'' each place it appears and inserting ``section 548(a)(1)(A)''; and (B) by striking ``548(a)(2)'' and inserting ``548(a)(1)(B)''. SEC. 4. TREATMENT OF POST-PETITION CHARITABLE CONTRIBUTIONS. (a) Confirmation of Plan.--Section 1325(b)(2)(A) of title 11, United States Code, is amended by inserting before the semicolon the following: ``, including charitable contributions (that meet the definition of `charitable contribution' under section 548(d)(3)) to a qualified religious or charitable entity or organization (as that term is defined in section 548(d)(4)) in an amount not to exceed 15 percent of the gross income of the debtor for the year in which the contributions are made''. (b) Dismissal.--Section 707(b) of title 11, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: ``In making a determination whether to dismiss a case under this section, the court may not take into consideration whether a debtor has made, or continues to make, charitable contributions (that meet the definition of `charitable contribution' under section 548(d)(3)) to any qualified religious or charitable entity or organization (as that term is defined in section 548(d)(4)).''. SEC. 5. APPLICABILITY. This Act and the amendments made by this Act shall apply to any case brought under an applicable provision of title 11, United States Code, that is pending or commenced on or after the date of enactment of this Act. SEC. 6. RULE OF CONSTRUCTION. Nothing in the amendments made by this Act is intended to limit the applicability of the Religious Freedom Restoration Act of 1993 (42 U.S.C. 2002bb et seq.).

Summary: Religious Liberty and Charitable Donation Protection Act of 1998 - Amends Federal bankruptcy law with respect to avoidance by the trustee in bankruptcy of fraudulent transfers and obligations to cite circumstances under which a transfer of a charitable contribution to a qualified religious or charitable unit shall not be considered to be fraudulent. Prohibits the trustee from avoiding such charitable contributions when acting as lien creditor and successor to certain creditors and purchasers. Excludes from "disposable income," for purposes of bankruptcy plan confirmation, up to 15 percent of the gross income of the debtor when it is expended for such charitable contributions. Prohibits the bankruptcy court, when it determines whether to dismiss a case, from taking into consideration whether a debtor makes charitable contributions to any qualified religious or charitable entity.