SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Community-Based Mental Health Infrastructure Improvements Act''. SEC. 2. COMMUNITY-BASED MENTAL HEALTH INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENT. Title V of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 280g et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following: ``PART H--COMMUNITY-BASED MENTAL HEALTH INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENTS ``SEC. 560. GRANTS FOR COMMUNITY-BASED MENTAL HEALTH INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENTS. ``(a) Grants Authorized.--The Secretary may award grants to eligible entities to expend funds for the construction or modernization of facilities used to provide mental health and behavioral health services to individuals. ``(b) Eligible Entity.--In this section, the term `eligible entity' means-- ``(1) a State that is the recipient of a Community Mental Health Services Block Grant under subpart I of part B of title XIX and a Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Block Grant under subpart II of such part; or ``(2) an Indian tribe or a tribal organization (as such terms are defined in sections 4(b) and 4(c) of the Indian Self- Determination and Education Assistance Act). ``(c) Application.--A eligible entity desiring a grant under this section shall submit to the Secretary an application at such time, in such manner, and containing-- ``(1) a plan for the construction or modernization of facilities used to provide mental health and behavioral health services to individuals that-- ``(A) designates a single State or tribal agency as the sole agency for the supervision and administration of the grant; ``(B) contains satisfactory evidence that such agency so designated will have the authority to carry out the plan; ``(C) provides for the designation of an advisory council, which shall include representatives of nongovernmental organizations or groups, and of the relevant State or tribal agencies, that aided in the development of the plan and that will implement and monitor any grant awarded to the eligible entity under this section; ``(D) in the case of an eligible entity that is a State, includes a copy of the State plan under section 1912(b) and section 1932(b); ``(E)(i) includes a listing of the projects to be funded by the grant; and ``(ii) in the case of an eligible entity that is a State, explains how each listed project helps the State in accomplishing its goals and objectives under the Community Mental Health Services Block Grant under subpart I of part B of title XIX and the Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Block Grant under subpart II of such part; ``(F) includes assurances that the facilities will be used for a period of not less than 10 years for the provision of community-based mental health or substance abuse services for those who cannot pay for such services, subject to subsection (e); and ``(G) in the case of a facility that is not a public facility, includes the name and executive director of the entity who will provide services in the facility; and ``(2) with respect to each construction or modernization project described in the application-- ``(A) a description of the site for the project; ``(B) plans and specifications for the project and State or tribal approval for the plans and specifications; ``(C) assurance that the title for the site is or will be vested with either the public entity or private nonprofit entity who will provide the services in the facility; ``(D) assurance that adequate financial resources will be available for the construction or major rehabilitation of the project and for the maintenance and operation of the facility; ``(E) estimates of the cost of the project; and ``(F) the estimated length of time for completion of the project. ``(d) Subgrants by States.-- ``(1) In general.--A State that receives a grant under this section may award a subgrant to a qualified community program (as such term is used in section 1913(b)(1)). ``(2) Use of funds.--Subgrants awarded pursuant to paragraph (1) may be used for activities such as-- ``(A) the construction, expansion, and modernization of facilities used to provide mental and behavioral health services to individuals; ``(B) acquiring and leasing facilities and equipment (including paying the costs of amortizing the principal of, and paying the interest on, loans for such facilities and equipment) to support or further the operation of the subgrantee; and ``(C) the construction and structural modification (including equipment acquisition) of facilities to permit the integrated delivery of behavioral health and primary care of specialty medical services to individuals with co-occurring mental illnesses and chronic medical or surgical diseases at a single service site. ``(e) Request To Transfer Obligation.--An eligible entity that receives a grant under this section may submit a request to the Secretary for permission to transfer the 10-year obligation of facility use, as described in subsection (c)(1)(F), to another facility. ``(f) Agreement to Federal Share.--As a condition of receipt of a grant under this section, an eligible entity shall agree, with respect to the costs to be incurred by the entity in carrying out the activities for which such grant is awarded, that the entity will make available non-Federal contributions (which may include State or local funds, or funds from the qualified community program) in an amount equal to not less than $1 for every $1 of Federal funds provided under the grant. ``(g) Reporting.-- ``(1) Reporting by states.--During the 10-year period referred to in subsection (c)(1)(F), the Secretary shall require that a State that receives a grant under this section submit, as part of the report of the State required under the Community Mental Health Services Block Grant under subpart I of part B of title XIX and the Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Block Grant under subpart II of such part, a description of the progress on-- ``(A) the projects carried out pursuant to the grant under this section; and ``(B) the assurances that the facilities involved continue to be used for the purpose for which they were funded under such grant during such 10-year period. ``(2) Reporting by indian tribes and tribal organizations.--The Secretary shall establish reporting requirements for Indian tribes and tribal organizations that receive a grant under this section. Such reporting requirements shall include that such Indian tribe or tribal organization provide a description of the progress on-- ``(A) the projects carried out pursuant to the grant under this section; and ``(B) the assurances that the facilities involved continue to be used for the purpose for which they were funded under such grant during the 10-year period referred to in subsection (c)(1)(F). ``(h) Failure To Meet Obligations.-- ``(1) In general.--If an eligible entity that receives a grant under this section fails to meet any of the obligations of the entity required under this section, the Secretary shall take appropriate steps, which may include-- ``(A) requiring that the entity return the unused portion of the funds awarded under this section for the projects that are incomplete; and ``(B) extending the length of time that the entity must ensure that the facility involved is used for the purposes for which it is intended, as described in subsection (c)(1)(F). ``(2) Hearing.--Prior to requesting the return of the funds under paragraph (1)(B), the Secretary shall provide the entity notice and opportunity for a hearing. ``(i) Collaboration.--The Secretary may establish intergovernmental and interdepartmental memorandums of agreement as necessary to carry out this section. ``(j) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $20,000,000 for fiscal year 2008 and such sums as may be necessary for each of fiscal years 2009 through 2012.''.

Summary: Community-Based Mental Health Infrastructure Improvements Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize the Secretary of Health and Human Services to award grants to eligible entities for the construction or modernization of facilities to provide mental health and behavioral health services to individuals. Defines an "eligible entity" as: (1) a state that is the recipient of a Community Mental Health Services Block Grant and a Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Block Grant under such Act; or (2) an Indian tribe or a tribal organization. Includes among grant application requirements assurances that facilities will be used for not less than 10 years for community-based mental health or substance abuse services for those who cannot pay for such services. Permits a grant recipient to request permission to transfer such 10-year obligation to another facility. Authorizes a state that receives a grant to award a subgrant to a qualified community program for activities such as: (1) the construction, expansion, and modernization of mental and behavioral health facilities; and (2) the construction and structural modification of facilities to permit the integrated delivery of behavioral health and primary care of specialty medical services to individuals with co-occurring mental illnesses and chronic medical or surgical diseases at a single service site. Requires a grant recipient to agree to make available nonfederal contributions matching federal funds provided.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Economic Recovery Through Responsible Homeownership Act of 2009''. SEC. 2. REFUNDABLE CREDIT FOR RESIDENCES PURCHASED DURING 2009 OR 2010. (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 inserting after section 36 the following new section: ``SEC. 36A. GENERAL HOMEBUYER CREDIT FOR RESIDENCES PURCHASED DURING 2009 OR 2010. ``(a) Allowance of Credit.--In the case of an individual who makes an eligible purchase during the taxable year, there shall be allowed as a credit against the tax imposed by this subtitle for such taxable year an amount equal to so much of the purchase price as does not exceed the applicable amount. ``(b) Applicable Amount.--For purposes of subsection (a), the applicable amount is-- ``(1) $10,000 in the case of an eligible purchase where the down payment is at least 15 percent of the purchase price, ``(2) $5,000 in the case of an eligible purchase where the down payment is at least 10 percent of the purchase price, ``(3) $2,000 in the case of an eligible purchase where the down payment is at least 5 percent of the purchase price, and ``(4) zero in any other case. ``(c) Definitions.--For purposes of this section-- ``(1) Eligible purchase.--The term `eligible purchase' means the purchase of a residence for the taxpayer if-- ``(A) such residence is located in the United States, ``(B) the construction of such residence began before 2009, and ``(C) such purchase is made by the taxpayer during 2009 or 2010. ``(2) Other definitions.--The terms `purchase' and `purchase price' have the respective meanings given such terms by section 26(c). ``(d) Exceptions.--No credit shall be allowed under subsection (a) to any taxpayer for any taxable year with respect to the purchase of a residence if-- ``(1) credit under section 36 (relating to first-time homebuyer credit) or 1400C (relating to first-time homebuyer in the District of Columbia) is allowed to the taxpayer (or the taxpayer's spouse) for such taxable year or any prior taxable year, ``(2) the residence is financed by the proceeds of a qualified mortgage issue the interest on which is exempt from tax under section 103, ``(3) the taxpayer is a nonresident alien, or ``(4) the taxpayer disposes of such residence (or such residence ceases to be a residence of the taxpayer (or, if married, the taxpayer's spouse)) before the close of such taxable year. ``(e) Other Rules To Apply.-- ``(1) Related persons.--Rules similar to the rules of section 26(c)(5) shall apply for purposes of this section. ``(2) Married individuals filing separate returns, etc.-- Rules similar to the rules of subparagraphs (B) and (C) of section 26(b)(1) shall apply for purposes of this section. ``(3) Reporting.--Rules similar to the rules of section 26(e) shall apply for purposes of this section. ``(f) Recapture of Credit.--Rules similar to the rules of section 26(f) shall apply for purposes of this section, except that-- ``(1) paragraph (1) thereof shall be applied by substituting `33\1/3\ percent' for `6\2/3\ percent', and ``(2) paragraph (7) thereof shall be applied by substituting `3 years' for `15 years'.''. (b) Conforming Amendments.-- (1) Section 26(b)(2) of such Code is amended-- (A) in subparagraph (W)-- (i) by striking ``homebuyer credit'' and inserting ``first-time homebuyer credit'', and (ii) by striking ``and'', (B) by striking the period at the end of subparagraph (X) and inserting ``, and'', and (C) by inserting after subparagraph (X) the following new subparagraph: ``(Y) section 36A(f) (relating to recapture of general homebuyer credit)''. (2) Section 6211(b)(4)(A) of such Code is amended by inserting ``36A,'' after ``36,''. (3) Section 1324(b)(2) of title 31, United States Code, is amended by inserting ``36A,'' after ``36,''. (4) The table of sections for subpart C of part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1 of such Code is amended by inserting after the item relating to section 36 the following new item: ``Sec. 36A. General homebuyer credit for residences purchased during 2009 or 2010.''. (c) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall apply to residences purchased after December 31, 2008, in taxable years ending after such date.

Summary: Economic Recovery Through Responsible Homeownership Act of 2009 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow an individual taxpayer a refundable tax credit for the purchase in 2009 or 2010 of a residence located in the United States if the construction of such residence began before 2009. Allows a credit of either $2,000, $5,000, or $10,000 for downpayments of 5, 10, or 15% of the residence's purchase price respectively.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Native American Census Participation Enhancement Act of 1999''. SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS. (a) 2000 Census.--The term ``2000 census'' means the 2000 decennial census of population. (b) Bureau.--The term ``Bureau'' means the Bureau of the Census. (c) Indian Tribe.--The term ``Indian tribe'' has the meaning given that term in section 4(e) of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 450b(e)). (d) Indian Lands.--For purposes of this title, the term ``Indian lands'' shall include lands within the definition of ``Indian country'', as defined in 18 U.S.C. 1151; or ``Indian reservations'' as defined in section 3(d) of the Indian Financing Act of 1974, 25 U.S.C. 1452(d), or section 4(10) of the Indian Child Welfare Act, 25 U.S.C. 1903(10). For purposes of this definition, such section 3(d) of the Indian Financing Act of 1974 shall be applied by treating the term ``former Indian reservations in Oklahoma'' as including only those lands which are within the jurisdictional area of an Oklahoma Indian Tribe (as determined by the Secretary of the Interior) and are recognized by such Secretary as eligible for trust land status under 25 CFR part 151 (as in effect on the date of enactment of this sentence). (e) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary of Commerce. (f) Tribal Organization.--The term ``tribal organization'' has the meaning given that term by section 4 of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 450b). SEC. 3. FINDINGS AND PURPOSES. The Congress finds that-- (1) article I of the United States Constitution provides that an enumeration be taken of the United States population every 10 years to permit the apportionment of Representatives and for other purposes; (2) information collected through the decennial census is used to determine-- (A) the boundaries of congressional districts within States; (B) the boundaries of the districts for the legislature of each State and the boundaries of other political subdivisions within the States; and (C) the allocation of billions of dollars of Federal and State funds; (3) the enumeration of Native Americans has not been accurate and has led to an undercounting of the Native American population living on Indian lands and in rural areas; (4) the United States has a legal obligation to conduct an enumeration of the census in all communities in the United States, including Native communities; and (5) Tribal governments and Native Americans have an obligation to answer the census and ensure they are represented in the census. TITLE I--GRANTS TO TRIBES AND ORGANIZATIONS SECTION 1. PROGRAM AUTHORIZATION. In order to improve Native American participation in the 2000 census, the Secretary may, in accordance with the provisions of this Act, provide for grants to be made to Indian tribes and tribal organizations, consistent with the purposes of this Act. SEC. 2. APPLICATIONS. (a) Applications Required.--Each entity referred to in section 2 that wishes to receive a grant under this Act shall submit an application at such time, in such form, and complete with such information as the Secretary shall by regulation require, except that any such application shall include at least-- (1) a statement of the objectives for which the grant is sought; and (2) a description of the types of programs and activities for which the grant is sought. (b) Notice of Approval or Disapproval.--Each entity submitting an application under subsection (a) shall, not later than 60 days after the date of its submission, be notified in writing as to whether such application is approved or disapproved. SEC. 3. MATCHING REQUIREMENT. (a) In General.--A grant may not be made to an entity under this Act unless such entity agrees, with respect to the costs to be incurred by such entity in carrying out the programs an activities for which the grant is made, to make available non-Federal contributions in an amount equal to not less than 50 percent of the Federal funds provided under the grant. (b) Non-Federal Contributions.--An entity receiving a grant under this Act may meet the requirement under subsection (a) through-- (1) the use of amounts from non-Federal sources; or (2) in-kind contributions, fairly evaluated, but only if and to the extent allowable under section 9. SEC. 4. ALLOCATION. The Secretary shall allocate the amounts appropriated to carry out this Act equitably and in a manner that best achieves the purposes of this Act. SEC. 5. USE OF GRANT FUNDS. A grant made under this Act may be used only for one or more of the following: (1) To train volunteers to assist individuals residing on Indian lands to complete and return census questionnaires. (2) To educate Native American and the public about the importance of participating in the 2000 census. (3) To educate Native Americans and the public about the confidentiality that is accorded to information collected in the 2000 census. (4) To recruit candidates to apply for census office and field enumerator positions. (5) To sponsor community events to promote the 2000 census. (6) To produce community-tailored promotional materials. (7) To rent space to provide any of the training described in this section. SEC. 6. REGULATIONS. Any regulations to carry out this Act shall be prescribed not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act. The regulations shall include-- (1) provisions requiring that any application for a grant under this Act be submitted to the appropriate regional center or area office of the Bureau of the Census, as identified under the regulations; and (2) provisions under which the decision to approve or disapprove any such application shall be made by the head of the appropriate center or office in accordance with guidelines set forth in the regulations. TITLE II--RECRUITMENT OF TEMPORARY EMPLOYEES SECTION 1. RECRUITING TEMPORARY EMPLOYEES. (a) Compensation Shall Not Be Taken Into Account.--Section 23 of title 13, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: ``(d)(1) As used in this subsection, the term `temporary census position' shall mean a temporary position within the Bureau, established for purposes related to the 2000 census, as determined under regulations which the Secretary shall prescribe. ``(2) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the earning or receipt by an individual of compensation for service performed by such individual in a temporary census position shall not have the effect of causing-- ``(A) such individual or any other individual to become eligible for any benefits described in paragraph (3)(A); or ``(B) a reduction in the amount of any benefits described in paragraph (3)(A) for which such individual or any other individual would otherwise be eligible. ``(3) This subsection-- ``(A) shall apply with respect to benefits provided under any Federal program or under any State, tribal or local program financed in whole or in part with Federal funds; ``(B) shall apply only with respect to compensation for service performed during calendar year 2000; and ``(C) shall not apply if the individual performing the service involved was first appointed to a temporary census position (whether such individual's then current position or a previous one) before January 1, 2000.''. (2) Nothing in the amendment made by paragraph (1) shall be considered to apply with respect to Public Law 101-86 or the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. (b) Reemployed Annuitants and Former Members of the Uniformed Services.--Public Law 101-86 (13 U.S.C. 23) is amended-- (1) in section 1(b) and the long title by striking ``the 1990 decennial census'' and inserting ``the 2000 decennial census''; and (2) in section 4 by striking ``December 31, 1990'' and inserting December 31, 2000''. SECTION 2. CENSUS ASSISTANTS. (a) In General.--Subject to available appropriations, and after consulting with Indian tribes, the Secretary may provide such reasonable and appropriate incentives to facilitate and encourage volunteers to assist in the enumeration of Native Americans. (b) Reimbursements.--In his discretion, the Secretary may reimburse volunteers for fuel and mileage expenses; meals and related expenses; and other reasonable and necessary expenses incurred by assistants in the conduct of the Census. (c) Debt Relief.--In consultation with the Secretary of the Treasury, the Secretary shall develop and implement a program of undergraduate or graduate debt relief for those Census assistants that have provided significant service in the conduct of the enumeration of the Census.

Summary: (Sec. 3) Requires: (1) grant applications to include at least a statement of objectives, and a description of the programs and activities, for which the grant is sought; and (2) grant applicants to agree to make available non-Federal contributions in an amount equal to 50 percent of the Federal funds provided under the grant. (Sec. 4) Directs the Secretary to allocate the amounts appropriated to carry out this Act equitably and in a manner that best achieves the purposes of this Act. (Sec. 5) Allows a grant to be used only to: (1) train volunteers to assist individuals residing on Indian lands to complete and return census questionnaires; (2) educate Native Americans and the public about the importance of participating in the 2000 census and the confidentiality that is accorded to information collected; (3) recruit candidates to apply for census office and field enumerator positions; (4) sponsor community events to promote the 2000 census; (5) produce community-tailored promotional materials; or (6) rent space to provide any such training. Title II: Recruitment of Temporary Employees - Prohibits the earning or receipt of compensation for service performed by an individual in a temporary census position (a temporary position within the Bureau of the Census established for purposes relating to the 2000 decennial census of population) from having the effect of causing: (1) such individual or any other individual to become ineligible for any benefits provided under any Federal program or any State, tribal, or local program financed with Federal funds; or (2) a reduction in the amount of any such benefits for which such individual or any other individual would otherwise be eligible. Makes such requirement applicable only with respect to compensation for service performed during calendar year 2000. Prohibits the application of such requirement if the individual performing the service involved was first appointed to such position (whether such individual's then current position or a previous one) before January 1, 2000. Modifies Federal law regarding exemptions from certain provisions relating to offsets from pay and other benefits for reemployed annuitants and former uniformed service members to make such law: (1) applicable to service in any temporary position within the Bureau established for purposes relating to the 2000 decennial census; and (2) inapplicable to any service performed after December 31, 2000. Allows the Secretary to provide such reasonable and appropriate incentives to facilitate and encourage volunteers to assist in the enumeration of Native Americans and reimburse them for reasonable and necessary expenses incurred by assistants in conducting the Census. Directs the Secretary to develop and implement a program of undergraduate or graduate debt relief for those Census assistants that have provided significant service.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``United States-Mexico Transboundary Aquifer Assessment Act''. SEC. 2. PURPOSE. The purpose of this Act is to direct the Secretary of the Interior to establish a United States-Mexico transboundary aquifer assessment program to-- (1) systematically assess priority transboundary aquifers; and (2) provide the scientific foundation necessary for State and local officials to address pressing water resource challenges in the United States-Mexico border region. SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS. In this Act: (1) Aquifer.--The term ``aquifer'' means a subsurface water-bearing geologic formation from which significant quantities of water may be extracted. (2) Border state.--The term ``Border State'' means each of the States of Arizona, California, New Mexico, and Texas. (3) Indian tribe.--The term ``Indian tribe'' means an Indian tribe, band, nation, or other organized group or community-- (A) that is recognized as eligible for the special programs and services provided by the United States to Indians because of their status as Indians; and (B) the reservation of which includes a transboundary aquifer within the exterior boundaries of the reservation. (4) Priority transboundary aquifer.--The term ``priority transboundary aquifer'' means a transboundary aquifer that has been designated for study and analysis under the program. (5) Program.--The term ``program'' means the United States- Mexico transboundary aquifer assessment program established under section 4(a). (6) Reservation.--The term ``reservation'' means land that has been set aside or that has been acknowledged as having been set aside by the United States for the use of an Indian tribe, the exterior boundaries of which are more particularly defined in a final tribal treaty, agreement, executive order, Federal statute, secretarial order, or judicial determination. (7) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Director of the United States Geological Survey. (8) Transboundary aquifer.--The term ``transboundary aquifer'' means an aquifer that underlies the boundary between the United States and Mexico. (9) Tri-regional planning group.--The term ``Tri-Regional Planning Group'' means the binational planning group comprised of-- (A) the Junta Municipal de Agua y Saneamiento de Ciudad Juarez; (B) the El Paso Water Utilities Public Service Board; and (C) the Lower Rio Grande Water Users Organization. (10) Water resources research institutes.--The term ``water resources research institutes'' means the institutes within the Border States established under section 104 of the Water Resources Research Act of 1984 (42 U.S.C. 10303). SEC. 4. ESTABLISHMENT OF PROGRAM. (a) In General.--The Secretary, in consultation and cooperation with the Border States, the water resources research institutes, Sandia National Laboratories, and other appropriate entities in the United States and Mexico, shall carry out the United States-Mexico transboundary aquifer assessment program to characterize, map, and model transboundary groundwater resources along the United States- Mexico border at a level of detail determined to be appropriate for the particular aquifer. (b) Objectives.--The objectives of the program are to-- (1) develop and implement an integrated scientific approach to assess transboundary groundwater resources, including-- (A)(i) identifying fresh and saline transboundary aquifers; and (ii) prioritizing the transboundary aquifers for further analysis by assessing-- (I) the proximity of the transboundary aquifer to areas of high population density; (II) the extent to which the transboundary aquifer is used; (III) the susceptibility of the transboundary aquifer to contamination; and (IV) any other relevant criteria; (B) evaluating all available data and publications as part of the development of study plans for each priority transboundary aquifer; (C) creating a new, or enhancing an existing, geographic information system database to characterize the spatial and temporal aspects of each priority transboundary aquifer; and (D) using field studies, including support for and expansion of ongoing monitoring and metering efforts, to develop-- (i) the additional data necessary to adequately define aquifer characteristics; and (ii) scientifically sound groundwater flow models to assist with State and local water management and administration, including modeling of relevant groundwater and surface water interactions; (2) expand existing agreements, as appropriate, between the United States Geological Survey, the Border States, the water resources research institutes, and appropriate authorities in the United States and Mexico, to-- (A) conduct joint scientific investigations; (B) archive and share relevant data; and (C) carry out any other activities consistent with the program; and (3) produce scientific products for each priority transboundary aquifer that-- (A) are capable of being broadly distributed; and (B) provide the scientific information needed by water managers and natural resource agencies on both sides of the United States-Mexico border to effectively accomplish the missions of the managers and agencies. (c) Designation of Priority Transboundary Aquifers.-- (1) In general.--For purposes of the program, the Secretary shall designate as priority transboundary aquifers-- (A) the Hueco Bolson and Mesilla aquifers underlying parts of Texas, New Mexico, and Mexico; (B) the Santa Cruz River Valley aquifers underlying Arizona and Sonora, Mexico; and (C) the San Pedro aquifers underlying Arizona and Sonora, Mexico (2) Additional aquifers.--The Secretary shall, using the criteria under subsection (b)(1)(A)(ii), evaluate and designate additional priority transboundary aquifers. (d) Cooperation With Mexico.--To ensure a comprehensive assessment of transboundary aquifers, the Secretary shall, to the maximum extent practicable, work with appropriate Federal agencies and other organizations to develop partnerships with, and receive input from, relevant organizations in Mexico to carry out the program. (e) Grants and Cooperative Agreements.--The Secretary may provide grants or enter into cooperative agreements and other agreements with the water resources research institutes and other Border State entities to carry out the program. SEC. 5. IMPLEMENTATION OF PROGRAM. (a) Coordination With States, Tribes, and Other Entities.--The Secretary shall coordinate the activities carried out under the program with-- (1) the appropriate water resource agencies in the Border States; (2) any affected Indian tribes; and (3) any other appropriate entities that are conducting monitoring and metering activity with respect to a priority transboundary aquifer. (b) New Activity.--After the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall not initiate any new field studies or analyses under the program before consulting with, and coordinating the activity with, any Border State water resource agencies that have jurisdiction over the aquifer. (c) Study Plans; Cost Estimates.-- (1) In general.--The Secretary shall work closely with appropriate Border State water resource agencies, water resources research institutes, and other relevant entities to develop a study plan, timeline, and cost estimate for each priority transboundary aquifer to be studied under the program. (2) Requirements.--A study plan developed under paragraph (1) shall, to the maximum extent practicable-- (A) integrate existing data collection and analyses conducted with respect to the priority transboundary aquifer; (B) if applicable, improve and strengthen existing groundwater flow models developed for the priority transboundary aquifer; and (C) be consistent with appropriate State guidelines and goals. SEC. 6. EFFECT. Nothing in this Act affects-- (1) the jurisdiction or responsibility of a Border State with respect to managing surface or groundwater resources in the Border State; or (2) the water rights of any person or entity using water from a transboundary aquifer. SEC. 7. REPORTS. Not later than 5 years after the date of enactment of this Act, and on completion of the program in fiscal year 2014, the Secretary shall submit to the appropriate water resource agency in the Border States, an interim and final report, respectively, that describes-- (1) any activities carried out under the program; (2) any conclusions of the Secretary relating to the status of transboundary aquifers; and (3) the level of participation in the program of entities in Mexico. SEC. 8. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS. (a) In General.--There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this Act $50,000,000 for the period of fiscal years 2006 through 2015. (b) Distribution of Funds.--Of the amounts made available under subsection (a), 50 percent shall be made available to the water resources research institutes to provide funding to appropriate entities in the Border States (including Sandia National Laboratories, State agencies, universities, the Tri-Regional Planning Group, and other relevant organizations) and Mexico to conduct activities under the program, including the binational collection and exchange of scientific data.

Summary: United States-Mexico Transboundary Aquifer Assessment Act - Establishes a United States-Mexico transboundary aquifer assessment program to characterize, map, and model groundwater resources along the border. Describes as the program's objectives to: (1) develop an integrated approach to assess transboundary groundwater resources, including identifying fresh and saline aquifers, prioritizing the aquifers for further analysis, and creating a geographic information system database for each priority aquifer; (2) expand existing agreements between the U.S. Geological Survey, the Border States (Arizona, California, New Mexico, and Texas), the Water Resources Research Institutes, and appropriate U.S. and Mexican authorities to conduct joint scientific investigations and archive and share relevant data; and (3) produce scientific products for each priority aquifer to provide water managers and natural resource agencies with necessary information. Designates as priority transboundary aquifers the: (1) Hueco Bolson and Mesilla aquifers; (2) Santa Cruz River Valley aquifers; and (3) San Pedro aquifers. Requires the Secretary of the Interior to: (1) develop partnerships with relevant organizations in Mexico; and (2) coordinate activities with water resource agencies in the Border States and affected Indian tribes. Prohibits the Secretary from initiating any field studies before consulting and coordinating with the Border State water resource agency with jurisdiction over the aquifer. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants and enter into cooperative agreements with water resource agencies and Border States to carry out the program.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Creating Opportunities for Rural Economic Expansion Act'' or the ``CORE Act''. SEC. 2. ADDITIONAL NEW MARKETS TAX CREDIT FOR DISTRESSED COAL COMMUNITIES. (a) In General.--Section 45D(f) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph: ``(4) Set aside of portion of limitation for distressed coal communities.-- ``(A) In general.--For any calendar year after 2016, not less than 5 percent of the new markets tax credit limitation shall be allocated to qualified community development entities in connection with qualified investments the proceeds of which are substantially used to make qualified coal community investments. ``(B) Qualified coal community investment.--For purposes of this paragraph-- ``(i) In general.--The term `qualified coal community investment' means-- ``(I) any capital or equity investment in, or loan to, any qualified active distressed coal community business, ``(II) the purchase from another community development entity of any loan made by such entity which is a qualified coal community investment, ``(III) financial counseling and other services specified in regulations prescribed by the Secretary to businesses located in, and residents of, distressed coal communities, and ``(IV) any equity investment in, or loan to, any qualified community development entity in connection with qualified investments the proceeds of which are substantially used to make qualified coal community investments. ``(ii) Qualified active distressed coal community business.--The term `qualified active coal community business' means any business which would be a qualified active low-income community business if paragraphs (2) and (3) of subsection (d) were applied by substituting `distressed coal community' for `low-income community' each place it appears. ``(iii) Distressed coal community.-- ``(I) In general.--The term `distressed coal community' means any low-income community which is located in a county which-- ``(aa) was one of the 30 counties with the biggest employment decrease among coal operators (as determined under reports issued by the Mine Safety and Health Administration) for an applicable period, or ``(bb) is contiguous to a county which-- ``(AA) is described in item (aa) and is within the same State as such county, and ``(BB) contains not less than 1 low-income community. ``(II) Applicable periods.--For purposes of subclause (I)(aa), the term `applicable period' means any of the following periods: ``(aa) Calendar year 2013 compared to calendar year 2012. ``(bb) Calendar year 2014 compared to calendar year 2013. ``(cc) Calendar year 2015 compared to calendar year 2014. ``(C) Limitation of allocation of set aside.-- ``(i) In general.--In allocating the portion of the new markets tax credit limitation to which subparagraph (A) applies, the Secretary shall ensure that, with respect to any eligible State, not less than the minimum percentage of such limitation is allocated to qualified community development entities making qualified coal community investments in such eligible State. ``(ii) Minimum percentage.--For purposes of clause (i), the minimum percentage for any eligible State is the percentage equal to 80 percent of the ratio of-- ``(I) the qualified coal operator employment decrease in such State, to ``(II) the total qualified coal operator employment decrease in all eligible States. ``(iii) Qualified coal operator employment decrease.--For purposes of clause (ii), the term `qualified coal operator employment decrease' means, with respect to any eligible State, the aggregate amount of employment decrease among coal operators for all counties in such State-- ``(I) in which there is a low- income community, and ``(II) which are taken into account under item (aa) of subparagraph (B)(iii)(I). ``(iv) Eligible state.--For purposes of this subparagraph, the term `eligible State' means any State in which there is a distressed coal community. ``(D) Application of carryover.--Paragraph (3) shall be applied separately with respect to amounts described in subparagraph (A).''. (b) Application of Recapture Rules.--Section 45D(g)(3)(B) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by inserting ``(or, in the case of an investment described in subsection (f)(4), as required under such subsection)'' after ``(b)(1)(B)''.

Summary: Creating Opportunities for Rural Economic Expansion Act or the CORE Act This bill amends the Internal Revenue Code to require at least 5% of the new markets tax credit limitation to be allocated to community development entities in connection with certain investments, financial counseling, and other services in distressed coal communities. A "distressed coal community" is any low-income community located in a county that: (1) was one of the 30 counties with the biggest employment decrease among coal operators over a specified time period; or (2) is contiguous to a county that has the required decrease in employment, is located in the same state, and contains at least one low-income community.


SECTION 1. MONITORING OF DOMESTIC USES MADE OF CERTAIN FOREIGN COMMODITIES AFTER IMPORTATION. (a) Definitions.--For purposes of this section: (1) Entry.--The term ``entry'' means the entry into, or the withdrawal from warehouse for consumption in, the customs territory of the United States. (2) Foreign commodity.--The term ``foreign commodity'' means any of the following, if a product of any foreign country or instrumentality: (A) Wheat provided for in heading 1001 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States. (B) Soybeans provided for in heading 1201.00.00 of such Schedule. (C) Barley provided for in heading 1003.00 of such Schedule. (D) Oats provided for in heading 1004.00.00 of such Schedule. (E) Corn provided for in heading 1005 of such Schedule. (3) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary of Agriculture. (b) Certification Requirements Regarding Foreign Commodities.-- (1) End-use certificate.--An end-use certificate that meets the requirements of subsection (c) shall be included in the documentation covering the entry of any foreign commodity. (2) Quarterly reports.--A consignee of any imported foreign commodity shall submit to the Secretary a quarterly report that certifies-- (A) what quantity of the foreign commodity covered by an end-use certificate was used by the consignee during the quarter; and (B) that the commodity referred to in paragraph (1) was used by the consignee for the purpose stated in the end-use certificate. (c) End-Use Certificate and Quarterly Report Content.--The end-use certificates and quarterly reports required under subsection (b) shall be in such form, and require such information, as the Secretary considers necessary or appropriate to carry out the purposes of this section, including-- (1) in the case of the end-use certificate-- (A) the name and address of the importer of record of the foreign commodity; (B) the name and address of the consignee of the commodity; (C) the identification of the country of origin of the commodity; (D) a description by class and quantity of the commodity covered by the certificate; (E) the sales price of the commodity in the country of origin, if the Secretary considers such datum necessary to facilitate the enforcement of the trade laws and international agreements of the United States; (F) specification of the purpose for which the consignee will use the commodity; and (G) the identification of the transporter of the commodity from the port of entry to the processing facility of the consignee; and (2) in the case of the quarterly report-- (A) the information referred to in subparagraphs (A) and (B) of paragraph (1); (B) the identification of the end-use certificates currently held by the consignee; (C) a statement of the quantity of the foreign commodity covered by each of the end-use certificates identified under subparagraph (B) that was used during the quarter; and (D) a statement of the use made during the quarter by the consignee of each quantity referred to in subparagraph (C). (d) Regulations.--The Secretary shall prescribe such requirements regarding the preparation and submission of the quarterly reports required under subsection (b)(2) as may be necessary or appropriate to carry out the purposes of this section. (e) Penalties.-- (1) Customs penalties.--End-use certificates required under this section shall be treated as any other customs documentation for purposes of applying the customs laws that prohibit the entry, or the attempt to enter, merchandise by fraud, gross negligence, or negligence. (2) Civil penalties.--Any person who knowingly violates any requirement prescribed by the Secretary to carry out this section is punishable by a civil penalty in an amount not to exceed $10,000. (f) Entry Prohibited Unless End-Use Certificate Presented.--The Commissioner of Customs may not permit the entry of any foreign commodity unless the importer of record presents at the time of entry of the commodity an end-use certificate that complies with the applicable requirements of subsection (c). SEC. 2. SUSPENSION OR DEBARMENT FOR USE OF FOREIGN AGRICULTURAL COMMODITIES IN CERTAIN AGRICULTURAL TRADE PROGRAMS. (a) Opportunity for Hearing.--The Commodity Credit Corporation shall provide a person with an opportunity for a hearing before suspending or debarring the person from participation in an agricultural trade program for using a foreign agricultural commodity in violation of the terms and conditions of the program. (b) Waiver.-- (1) In general.--The Commodity Credit Corporation may waive the suspension or debarment of a person from participation in an agricultural trade program for using a foreign agricultural commodity in violation of the terms and conditions of the program if the person demonstrates, to the satisfaction of the Corporation, that-- (A) the use of the commodity was unintentional; and (B) the quantity of the foreign agricultural commodity used was less than 1 percent of the total quantity of the commodity involved in the transaction. (2) Other penalties.--Any waiver by the Commodity Credit Corporation of a suspension or debarment of a person under paragraph (1) shall not affect the liability of the person for any other penalty imposed under an agricultural trade program for the quantity of the foreign agricultural commodity involved.

Summary: Requires a consignee of imported foreign grain to: (1) include an end-use certificate in the documentation covering the entry of such grain; and (2) submit to the Secretary of Agriculture certain quarterly reports regarding its use. Sets forth civil penalties for violation of this Act. Prohibits the Commissioner of Customs from permitting the entry of such grain unless the importer of record presents such certificate at the time of entry. Requires the Commodity Credit Corporation to provide persons with an opportunity for a hearing before suspending or debarring them from participation in an agricultural trade program for using such grain in violation of it.


SECTION 1. FINDINGS AND PURPOSE. (a) Findings.--Congress finds that-- (1) the Secretary of Agriculture (referred to in this Act as the ``Secretary'') administers the 191,000,000-acre National Forest System for multiple uses in accordance with Federal law; (2) where suitable, one of the recognized multiple uses for National Forest System land is grazing by livestock; (3) the Secretary authorizes grazing through the issuance of term grazing permits that have terms of not to exceed 10 years and that include terms and conditions necessary for the proper administration of National Forest System land and resources; (4) as of the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary has issued approximately 9,000 term grazing permits authorizing grazing on approximately 90,000,000 acres of National Forest System land; (5) of the approximately 9,000 term grazing permits issued by the Secretary, approximately one-half have expired or will expire by the end of 1996; (6) if the holder of an expiring term grazing permit has complied with the terms and conditions of the permit and remains eligible and qualified, that individual is considered to be a preferred applicant for a new term grazing permit in the event that the Secretary determines that grazing remains an appropriate use of the affected National Forest System land; (7) in addition to the approximately 9,000 term grazing permits issued by the Secretary, it is estimated that as many as 1,600 term grazing permits may be waived by permit holders to the Secretary in favor of a purchaser of the permit holder's permitted livestock or base property by the end of 1996; (8) to issue new term grazing permits, the Secretary must comply with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) and other laws; (9) for a large percentage of the grazing permits that will expire or be waived to the Secretary by the end of 1996, the Secretary has devised a strategy that will result in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 and other applicable laws (including regulations) in a timely and efficient manner and enable the Secretary to issue new term grazing permits, where appropriate; (10) for a small percentage to the grazing permits that will expire or be waived to the Secretary by the end of 1996, the strategy will not provide for the timely issuance of new term grazing permits; and (11) in cases in which ranching operations involve the use of a term grazing permit issued by the Secretary, it is essential for new term grazing permits to be issued in a timely manner for financial and other reasons. (b) Purpose.--The purpose of this Act is to ensure that graving continues without interruption on National Forest System land in a manner that provides long-term protection of the environment and improvement of National Forest System rangeland resources while also providing short-term certainty to holders of expiring term grazing permits and purchasers of a permit holder's permitted livestock or base property. SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS. In this Act: (1) Expiring term grazing permit.--The term ``expiring term grazing permit'' means a term grazing permit-- (A) that expires in 1995 or 1996; or (B) that expired in 1994 and was not replaced with a new term grazing permit solely because the analysis required by the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) and other applicable laws has not been completed. (2) Final agency action.--The term ``final agency action'' means agency action with respect to which all available administrative remedies have been exhausted. (3) Term grazing permit.--The term ``term grazing permit'' means a term'' grazing permit'' or grazing agreement issued by the Secretary under section 402 of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (43 U.S.C. 1752), section 19 of the Act entitled ``An Act to facilitate and simplify the work of the Forest Service, and for other purposes'', approved April 24, 1950 (commonly known as the ``Granger-Thye Act'') (16 U.S.C. 580l), or other law. SEC. 3. ISSUANCE OF NEW TERM GRAZING PERMITS. (a) In General.--Notwithstanding any other law, the Secretary shall issue a new term grazing permit without regard to whether the analysis required by the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) and other applicable laws has been completed, or final agency action respecting the analysis has been taken-- (1) to the holder of an expiring term grazing permit; or (2) to the purchaser of a term grazing permit holder's permitted livestock or base property if-- (A) between January 1, 1995, and December 1, 1996, the holder has waived the term grazing permit to the Secretary pursuant to section 222.3(c)(1)(iv) of title 36, Code of Federal Regulations; and (B) the purchaser of the term grazing permit holder's permitted livestock or base property is eligible and qualified to hold a term grazing permit. (b) Terms and Conditions.--Except as provided in subsection (c)-- (1) a new term grazing permit under subsection (a)(1) shall contain the same terms and conditions as the expired term grazing permit; and (2) a new term grazing permit under subsection (a)(2) shall contain the same terms and conditions as the waived permit. (c) Duration.-- (1) In general.--A new term grazing permit under subsection (a) shall expire on the earlier of-- (A) the date that is 3 years after the date on which it is issued; or (B) the date on which final agency action is taken with respect to the analysis required by the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) and other applicable laws. (2) Final action in less than 3 years.--If final agency action is taken with respect to the analysis required by the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) and other applicable laws before the date that is 3 years after the date on which a new term grazing permit is issued under subsection (a), the Secretary shall-- (A) cancel the new term grazing permit; and (B) if appropriate, issue a term grazing permit for a term not to exceed 10 years under terms and conditions as are necessary for the proper administration of National Forest System rangeland resources. (d) Date of Issuance.-- (1) Expiration on or before date of enactment.--In the case of an expiring term grazing permit that has expired on or before the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall issue a new term grazing permit under subsection (a)(1) not later than 15 days after the date of enactment of this Act. (2) Expiration after date of enactment.--In the case of an expiring term grazing permit that expires after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall issue a new term grazing permit under subsection (a)(1) on expiration of the expiring term grazing permit. (3) Waived permits.--In the case of a term grazing permit waived to the Secretary pursuant to section 222.3(c)(1)(iv) of title 36, Code of Federal Regulations, between January 1, 1995, and December 31, 1996, the Secretary shall issue a new term grazing permit under subsection (a)(2) not later than 60 days after the date on which the holder waives a term grazing permit to the Secretary. SEC. 4. ADMINISTRATIVE APPEAL AND JUDICIAL REVIEW. The issuance of a new term grazing permit under section 3(a) shall not be subject to administrative appeal or judicial review. SEC. 5. REPEAL. This Act is repealed effective as of January 1, 2001.

Summary: Requires the Secretary of Agriculture to issue new term grazing permits for National Forest System lands to replace previously issued expired or expiring permits.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Government Travel Cost Reduction Act''. SEC. 2. BUSINESS ACCOUNTS FOR AIR TRAVEL BY FEDERAL EMPLOYEES. (a) In General.--Chapter 57 of title 5, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 5709 the following new section: ``Sec. 5710. Business accounts for air travel ``(a) The General Services Administration or any agency entering into a contract with an air carrier for travel on official business-- ``(1) subject to the provisions of paragraph (2), shall include as a term of such contract that such air carrier shall-- ``(A) establish a separate air travel business account for any employee, designated by the head of the agency employing such employee, for travel on official business by such employee on such air carrier; ``(B) deposit any award or bonus by such air carrier awarded to such employee for travel on official business into the employee's air travel business account; and ``(C) apply any such award or bonus from such employee's air travel business account to any travel on official business by such employee on such air carrier except that such awards or bonuses shall not be used for seating upgrades; and ``(2) may include as a term of such contract, as an alternative to the term required under paragraph (1), that such air carrier shall-- ``(A) establish an air travel business account for any office or administrative unit of an agency, as designated by the head of such agency, for travel on official business by employees of such office or administrative unit on such air carrier; ``(B) deposit any award or bonus by such air carrier awarded to any employee of such office or administrative unit for travel on official business into the air travel business account of such office or administrative unit; and ``(C) apply any such award or bonus from the air travel business account of such office or administrative unit to any travel on official business by any employee of such office or administrative unit except that such awards or bonuses shall not be used for seating upgrades. ``(b) All air travel business accounts established under this section shall be separate from any personal account of an employee. Any award or bonus from an air travel business account may be used only for travel on official business except that such awards shall not be used for seating upgrades. ``(c) To the greatest extent practicable, the General Services Administration shall include the term described under subsection (a)(2) in a contract to maximize travel costs savings. ``(d) The General Services Administration shall promulgate regulations to carry out the provisions of this section. Such regulations shall include a requirement that, to the greatest extent practicable to maximize travel costs savings, employees shall-- ``(1) travel on official business with air carriers awarding awards and bonuses for official business travel, regardless of whether such travel is on an air carrier under a contract described under this section; and ``(2)(A) participate in any program of such air carrier awarding awards and bonuses; and ``(B) use such awards and bonuses for only official business travel except that such awards shall not be used for seating upgrades.''. (b) Technical and Conforming Amendment.--The table of sections for chapter 57 of title 5, United States Code, is amended by inserting after the item relating to section 5709 the following new item: ``5710. Business accounts for air travel.''. SEC. 3. APPLICATION TO THE CONGRESS. (a) In General.--No later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Committee on Rules and Administration of the Senate and the Committee on Administration of the House of Representatives shall promulgate regulations relating to Members of Congress and any employee whose pay is disbursed by the Secretary of the Senate or the Clerk of the House of Representatives, respectively, that-- (1) require any Member of the Senate, officer of the Senate, Member of the House of Representatives, or officer of the House of Representatives who enters into a contract with an air carrier for travel on official business by a Member or employee-- (A) subject to the provisions of subparagraph (B), shall include as a term of such contract that such air carrier shall-- (i) establish a separate air travel business account for any Member or employee, designated by the applicable Member or employing committee or office of such employee, for travel on official business by such Member or employee on such air carrier; (ii) deposit any award or bonus by such air carrier awarded to such Member or employee for travel on official business into the Member's or employee's air travel business account; and (iii) apply any such award or bonus from such Member's or employee's air travel business account to any travel on official business by such Member or employee on such air carrier except that such awards or bonuses shall not be used for seating upgrades; and (B) may include as a term of such contract, as an alternative to the term required under subparagraph (A), that such air carrier shall-- (i) establish an air travel business account for any committee or office as designated by the applicable Member, committee, or office, for travel on official business by Members or employees of such committee or office on such air carrier; (ii) deposit any award or bonus by such air carrier awarded to any Member or employee of such committee or office for travel on official business into the air travel business account of such committee or office; and (iii) apply any such award or bonus from the air travel business account of such committee or office to any travel on official business by any Member or employee of such committee or office except that such awards or bonuses shall not be used for seating upgrades; and (2) to the greatest extent practicable to maximize travel costs savings, require committees and offices (including Members' offices)-- (A) to enter into contracts with air carriers awarding awards and bonuses for official business travel; and (B) to require Members and employees to-- (i) travel on official business with air carriers awarding awards and bonuses for official business travel, regardless of whether such travel is on an air carrier under a contract described under this section; and (ii)(I) participate in any program of such air carrier awarding awards and bonuses; and (II) use such awards and bonuses for only official business travel except that such awards or bonuses shall not be used for seating upgrades. (b) Separate Business Accounts.--All air travel business accounts established under this section shall be separate from any personal account of a Member or employee. Any award or bonus from an air travel business account may be used only for travel on official business except that such awards or bonuses shall not be used for seating upgrades. (c) Committee and Office Accounts.--To the greatest extent practicable, any Member of Congress or officer of the Congress entering into a contract as provided under this section shall include the term described under subsection (a)(1)(B) to maximize costs savings.

Summary: Government Travel Cost Reduction Act - Amends Federal law governing air travel of Federal employees and Members of Congress to mandate that a Federal or congressional agency include in its contract with an air carrier: (1) the establishment of a separate air travel business account for employees travelling on official agency business; and (2) deposit into the employee's air travel business account any travel bonuses awarded by the carrier.


SECTION 1. FINDINGS; PURPOSE. (a) Findings.--Congress makes the following findings: (1) Billing practices by telecommunications carriers may not reflect accurately the cost or basis of the additional telecommunications services and benefits that consumers receive as a result of the enactment of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 (Public Law 104-104) and other Federal regulatory actions taken since the enactment of that Act. (2) Congress has never enacted a law with the intent of permitting providers of telecommunications services to misrepresent to customers the costs of providing services or the services provided. (3) Certain providers of telecommunications services have established new, specific charges on customer bills commonly known as ``line-item charges''. (4) Certain providers of telecommunications services have described such charges as ``Federal Universal Service Fees'' or similar fees. (5) Such charges have generated significant confusion among customers regarding the nature of and scope of universal service and of the fees associated with universal service. (6) The State of New York is considering action to protect consumers by requiring telecommunications carriers to disclose fully in the bills of all classes of customers the fee increases and fee reductions resulting from the enactment of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 and other regulatory actions taken since the enactment of that Act. (7) The National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners adopted a resolution in February 1998 supporting action by the Federal Communications Commission to require interstate carriers to provide accurate customer notice regarding the implementation and purpose of end user charges. (b) Purpose.--It is the purpose of this Act to require the Federal Communications Commission and the Federal Trade Commission to protect consumers of telecommunications services by assuring accurate cost reporting and billing practices by telecommunications carriers nationwide. SEC. 2. INVESTIGATION OF TELECOMMUNICATIONS CARRIERS BILLING PRACTICES. (a) Investigation.-- (1) Requirement.--The Federal Communications Commission and the Federal Trade Commission shall jointly conduct an investigation of the billing practices of telecommunications carriers. (2) Purpose.--The purpose of the investigation is to determine whether the bills sent by carriers to their customers accurately assess and correctly characterize any additional fees paid by such customers for telecommunications services as a result of the enactment of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 (Public Law 104-104) and other Federal regulatory actions taken since the enactment of that Act. (b) Determinations.--In carrying out the investigation under subsection (a), the Federal Communications Commission and the Federal Trade Commission shall determine the following: (1) The amount, if any, of additional fees imposed by telecommunications carriers on their customers as a result of the requirements of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 (including the amendments made by that Act) and other Federal regulatory actions taken since the enactment of that Act during the period beginning on June 30, 1997, and ending on the date of enactment of that Act. (2) In the event that additional fees described in paragraph (1) are being imposed, the following: (A) Whether the amount of such fees accurately reflect-- (i) the additional costs to carriers as a result of the enactment of that Act (including the amendments made by that Act) and other Federal regulatory actions taken since the enactment of that Act; and (ii) any reductions in costs, or other financial benefits, to carriers as a result of the enactment of that Act (including such amendments) and other Federal regulatory actions taken since the enactment of that Act. (B) Whether the bills that impose such fees characterize correctly the nature and basis of such fees. (c) Review of Records.-- (1) Authority.--For purposes of the investigation under subsection (a), the Federal Communications Commission and the Federal Trade Commission may obtain from any telecommunications carrier any record of the carrier that is relevant to the investigation. (2) Use.--The Federal Communications Commission and the Federal Trade Commission may use records obtained under this subsection only for purposes of the investigation. (d) Disciplinary Actions.-- (1) In general.--In the event that the Federal Communications Commission or the Federal Trade Commission determine as a result of the investigation under subsection (a) that the bills sent by a telecommunications carrier to its customers does not accurately assess or correctly characterize any fee addressed in the investigation, the Federal Communications Commission or the Federal Trade Commission, as the case may be, shall take such actions against the carrier as such Commission is authorized to take under law. (2) Additional actions.--If the Federal Communications Commission or the Federal Trade Commission determines that such Commission does not have adequate authority under law to take appropriate actions under paragraph (1), the Federal Communications Commission and the Federal Trade Commission shall notify Congress of that determination in the report under subsection (e). (e) Report.--Not later than 45 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Federal Communications Commission and the Federal Trade Commission shall jointly submit to Congress a report on the results of the investigation under subsection (a). The report shall include the determination, if any, of either Commission under subsection (d)(2) and any recommendations for further legislative action that the Commissions consider appropriate. SEC. 3. REQUIREMENTS FOR TELECOMMUNICATIONS CARRIERS IMPOSING CERTAIN FEES FOR SERVICES. (a) Requirements.--Any telecommunications carrier that includes on any of the bills sent to its customers a charge described in subsection (b) shall-- (1) specify in the bill imposing such charge any reduction in charges or fees allocable to all classes of customers (including customers of residential basic service, customers of other residential services, small business customers, and other business customers) by reason of any regulatory action of the Federal Government; and (2) submit to the Federal Communications Commission the reports required to be submitted by the carrier to the Securities and Exchange Commission under sections 13(a) and 15(d) of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 (15 U.S.C. 78m(a), 78o(d)). (b) Covered Charges.--Subsection (a) applies in the case of the following charges: (1) Any specific charge included after June 30, 1997, if the imposition of the charge is attributed to a regulatory action of the Federal Government. (2) Any specific charge included before that date if the description of the charge is changed after that date to attribute the imposition of the charge to a regulatory action of the Federal Government.

Summary: Directs the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to jointly conduct an investigation of the billing practices of telecommunications carriers (carriers) to determine whether bills sent to customers accurately assess and characterize any additional fees paid by customers for telecommunications services as a result of the enactment of the Telecommunications Act of 1996. Requires access to carrier records relevant to such investigation. Directs either the FCC or FTC to take appropriate disciplinary actions against carriers whose customer bills inaccurately assess and characterize such fees. Requires a joint report to the Congress on investigation results. Requires carriers that include on customer bills a charge or charges attributed to Federal regulatory actions to: (1) specify in such bill any reduction in charges or fees allocable to all classes of customers by reason of such regulatory actions; and (2) submit to the FCC certain disclosure reports required to be submitted by such carriers to the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; REFERENCES. (a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Higher Education Accrediting Agency Responsibility Act of 2002''. (b) References to Higher Education Act of 1965.--Except as otherwise expressly provided, whenever in this Act an amendment or repeal is expressed in terms of an amendment to, or repeal of, a section or other provision, the reference shall be considered to be made to a section or other provision of the Higher Education Act of 1965. SEC. 2. FINDINGS AND PURPOSES. (a) Findings.--Congress finds the following: (1) Accrediting agencies were originally intended to provide voluntary, nongovernmental oversight of institutions of higher education. (2) However, Congress has allowed accreditors to become gatekeepers of more than $40,000,000,000 of Federal student aid funds due to such agencies role, enshrined in current Federal law, to help determine an institution's eligibility to participate in Federal student aid programs. (3) More effective and less costly mechanisms are already in place to protect students and parents, as no institution can receive Federal funds until the Department of Education certifies its financial and administrative capacity. Additionally, the amount of useful information publicly available about the quality of academic institutions has grown dramatically in recent years and now far exceeds the minimal amount conveyed by the accreditation system. (4) It is virtually unknown for an institution to be denied accreditation because of low educational values, despite growing public concern that American college graduates are lacking the skills necessary for participation in civic life. (5) The time and effort required of institutions of higher education to comply with the accreditation process imposes costs which must ultimately be borne by students and parents. (b) Purposes.--The purposes of this Act are as follows: (1) To refocus the purpose of accreditation on providing comparative information about the quality of institutions of higher education, rather than determining student aid eligibility, which should properly be the responsibility of the Department of Education. (2) To end the virtual monopoly that today's accrediting agencies enjoy, and require them to operate in a competitive environment like any other industry. SEC. 3. AMENDMENTS AND REPEALS. (a) Qualification of Institutions of Higher Education.--Section 101 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001) is amended-- (1) in subsection (a)-- (A) by adding ``and'' at the end of paragraph (3); (B) by striking ``; and'' at the end of paragraph (4) and inserting a period; and (C) by striking paragraph (5); and (2) by striking subsection (c). (b) Qualification of Proprietary Institutions of Higher Education.--Section 102(b)(1) (20 U.S.C. 1002(b)(1)) is amended-- (1) by striking subparagraph (D); and (2) by redesignating subparagraphs (E) and (F) as subparagraphs (D) and (E), respectively. (c) National Advisory Committee on Institutional Quality and Integrity.--Section 114 (20 U.S.C. 1011c) is repealed. (d) Disclosures of Foreign Gifts.--Section 117(h)(4) (20 U.S.C. 1011f(h)(4)) is amended-- (1) by adding ``and'' at the end of subparagraph (A); and (2) by striking subparagraph (C). (e) Title III Eligible Institutions.--Section 312(b)(1) (20 U.S.C. 1058(b)(1)) is amended-- (1) by striking subparagraph (D); and (2) by redesignating subparagraphs (E) and (F) as subparagraphs (D) and (E), respectively. (f) Title III Definitions.--Section 322(2) (20 U.S.C. 1061(2)) is amended-- (1) by inserting ``and'' after ``1964'',''; and (2) by striking ``and that is accredited'' and all that follows through ``toward accreditation,''. (g) HBCU Capital Financing.--Section 342(5) (20 U.S.C. 1066a(5)) is amended-- (1) by adding ``and'' at the end of subparagraph (F); (2) by striking subparagraph (G); and (3) by redesignating subparagraph (H) as subparagraph (G). (h) Conforming Amendment.--Section 365 (20 U.S.C. 1067k) is amended-- (1) by striking paragraph (1); and (2) by redesignating paragraphs (2) through (9) as paragraphs (1) through (8), respectively. (i) Distance Education Demonstration Programs.--Section 486(c)(2) (20 U.S.C. 1093(c)(2)) is amended-- (1) by striking subparagraph (A); and (2) by redesignating subparagraphs (B) through (F) as subparagraphs (A) through (E), respectively. (j) Program Participation Agreements.--Section 487 (20 U.S.C. 1094) is amended-- (1) in subsection (a)(3)-- (A) by adding ``and'' at the end of subparagraph (A); (B) by striking ``; and'' at the end of subparagraph (B) and inserting a period; and (C) by striking subparagraph (C); (2) in subsection (a)(15), by striking ``accrediting agencies,''; (3) in subsection (a)(21), by striking ``and accrediting agencies or associations''; and (4) in subsection (c)(5)-- (A) by inserting ``and'' after ``eligible lenders,''; and (B) by striking ``, and accrediting agencies or associations''. (k) Accrediting Agency Recognition.--Section 496 (20 U.S.C. 1099b) is repealed. (l) Eligibility and Certification Procedures.--Section 498 (20 U.S.C. 1099c) is amended-- (1) in subsection (a), by striking ``accreditation''; and (2) in subsection (b), by striking ``accreditation,'' each place it appears. SEC. 4. EFFECTIVE DATE. The amendments made by this Act shall apply be effective on September 1, 2002.

Summary: Higher Education Accrediting Agency Responsibility Act of 2002 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) to remove requirements that institutions of higher education (IHEs) be accredited or preaccredited by a nationally recognized accrediting agency or association in order to receive Federal funds under various HEA programs, including student aid under HEA title IV.Removes such accreditation requirements with respect to IHEs, proprietary IHEs, special institutional aid under HEA title III, historically Black college and university capital financing, distance education demonstration programs, and student assistance program participation agreements.Repeals provisions for: (1) the National Advisory Committee on Institutional Quality and Integrity; and (2) recognition of accrediting agencies or associations under HEA.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Advanced Nuclear Fuel Availability Act''. SEC. 2. PROGRAM. (a) Establishment.--The Secretary shall establish and carry out, through the Office of Nuclear Energy, a program to support the availability of HA-LEU for domestic commercial use. (b) Program Elements.--In carrying out the program under subsection (a), the Secretary-- (1) may provide financial assistance to assist commercial entities to design and license transportation packages for HA- LEU, including canisters for metal, gas, and other HA-LEU compositions; (2) shall, to the extent practicable-- (A) by January 1, 2021, have commercial entities submit such transportation package designs to the Commission for certification by the Commission under part 71 of title 10, Code of Federal Regulations; and (B) encourage the Commission to have such transportation package designs so certified by the Commission by January 1, 2023; (3) not later than January 1, 2020, shall submit to Congress a report on the Department's uranium inventory that may be available to be processed to HA-LEU for purposes of such program, which may not include any uranium allocated by the Secretary for use in support of the atomic energy defense activities of the National Nuclear Security Administration; (4) not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, and biennially thereafter through September 30, 2025, shall conduct a survey of stakeholders to estimate the quantity of HA-LEU necessary for domestic commercial use for each of the 5 subsequent years; (5) shall assess options available for the Secretary to acquire HA-LEU for such program, including an assessment, for each such option, of the cost and amount of time required; (6) shall establish a consortium, which may include entities involved in any stage of the nuclear fuel cycle, to partner with the Department to support the availability of HA- LEU for domestic commercial use, including by-- (A) providing information to the Secretary for purposes of surveys conducted under paragraph (4); and (B) purchasing HA-LEU made available to members of the consortium by the Secretary under the program; (7) shall, prior to acquiring HA-LEU under paragraph (8), in coordination with the consortium established pursuant to paragraph (6), develop a schedule for cost recovery of HA-LEU made available to members of the consortium pursuant to paragraph (8); (8) may, beginning not later than 3 years after the establishment of a consortium under paragraph (6), acquire HA- LEU, in order, to the extent practicable, to make such HA-LEU available to members of the consortium beginning not later than January 1, 2025, in amounts that are consistent, to the extent practicable, with the quantities estimated under the surveys conducted under paragraph (4); and (9) shall develop, in consultation with the Commission, criticality benchmark data to assist the Commission in-- (A) the licensing and regulation of category II spent nuclear material fuel fabrication and enrichment facilities under part 70 of title 10, Code of Federal Regulations; and (B) certification of transportation packages under part 71 of title 10, Code of Federal Regulations. (c) Applicability of USEC Privatization Act.--The requirements of subparagraphs (A) and (C) of section 3112(d)(2) of the USEC Privatization Act (42 U.S.C. 2297h-10(d)(2)) shall apply to a sale or transfer of HA-LEU by the Secretary to a member of the consortium under this section. (d) Funding.-- (1) Transportation package design.-- (A) Cost share.--The Secretary shall ensure that not less than 20 percent of the costs of design and license activities carried out pursuant to subsection (b)(1) are paid by a non-Federal entity. (B) Authorization of appropriations.--There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out subsection (b)(1)-- (i) $1,500,000 for fiscal year 2019; (ii) $1,500,000 for fiscal year 2020; and (iii) $1,500,000 for fiscal year 2021. (2) DOE acquisition of ha-leu.--The Secretary may not make commitments under this section (including cooperative agreements (used in accordance with section 6305 of title 31, United States Code), purchase agreements, guarantees, leases, service contracts, or any other type of commitment) for the purchase or other acquisition of HA-LEU unless funds are specifically provided for such purposes in advance in subsequent appropriations Acts, and only to the extent that the full extent of anticipated costs stemming from such commitments is recorded as an obligation up front and in full at the time it is made. (3) Other costs.--Except as otherwise provided in this subsection, in carrying out this section, the Secretary shall use amounts otherwise authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary. (e) Sunset.--The authority of the Secretary to carry out the program under this section shall expire on September 30, 2033. SEC. 3. REPORT TO CONGRESS. Not later than 12 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Commission shall submit to Congress a report that includes-- (1) identification of updates to regulations, certifications, and other regulatory policies that the Commission determines are necessary in order for HA-LEU to be commercially available, including-- (A) guidance for material control and accountability of category II special nuclear material; (B) certifications relating to transportation packaging for HA-LEU; and (C) licensing of enrichment, conversion, and fuel fabrication facilities for HA-LEU, and associated physical security plans for such facilities; (2) a description of such updates; and (3) a timeline to complete such updates. SEC. 4. DEFINITIONS. In this Act: (1) Commission.--The term ``Commission'' means the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. (2) Department.--The term ``Department'' means Department of Energy. (3) HA-LEU.--The term ``HA-LEU'' means high-assay low- enriched uranium. (4) High-assay low-enriched uranium.--The term ``high-assay low-enriched uranium'' means uranium having an assay greater than 5.0 percent and less than 20.0 percent enrichment of the uranium-235 isotope. (5) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary of Energy. Passed the House of Representatives December 11, 2018. Attest: KAREN L. HAAS, Clerk.

Summary: Advanced Nuclear Fuel Availability Act This bill directs the Department of Energy to develop and deploy high-assay low-enriched uranium for domestic commercial use and to develop a schedule for recovering costs associated with such development.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Debt Relief and IMF Reform Act of 1999''. SEC. 2. CONDITIONS OF APPROVING GOLD SALES BY THE INTERNATIONAL MONETARY FUND. Section 5 of the Bretton Woods Agreements Act (22 U.S.C. 286c) is amended by adding at the end the following: ``No director appointed to represent the United States at the Fund shall vote for any proposal to sell or otherwise convert or liquidate gold, unless-- ``(1) the Congress has enacted a joint resolution authorizing the approval of the proposal; ``(2)(A) the Fund has canceled all debts owed to the Fund by the countries eligible for debt relief under the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) Initiative and Haiti; and ``(B) the Secretary of the Treasury, after consultation with the Comptroller General, demonstrates to the Congress that there is no other feasible way to finance the cancellation of such debts, and, if the Comptroller General does not concur, explains to the Congress why any other method of financing suggested by the Comptroller General is not feasible; ``(3) the most recent operational budget of the Fund has been published, with any information that could disrupt financial markets or affect adversely the national security of any country redacted, and the publicly available financial statements of the Fund are reorganized and restated in a manner consistent with the Fund's code of good practices, and with the principles of transparency and accountability; ``(4) the Congress has enacted a joint resolution certifying that the Fund is in full compliance with the conditions imposed or required to be imposed by title VI of the Foreign Operations, Export Financing, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 1999 (as contained in section 101(d) of division A of the Omnibus Consolidated and Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act, 1999 (Public Law 105-277)); ``(5) the proposal is-- ``(A) to sell any gold held by the Fund on the effective date of the Second Amendment to the Articles of Agreement of the Fund; ``(B) only to the member countries that were member countries on August 31, 1975, and Papua New Guinea, and that agree to purchase the gold; ``(C) in proportion to the quotas of such countries in the Fund on August 31, 1975; ``(D) in exchange for the currencies of such countries; and ``(E) at a price of SDR 35 per fine ounce; ``(6) the interest accruing on any investment of the residual proceeds to the Fund of the sale will be used for the provision of debt relief for such countries without conditions; and ``(7) the official budget of the United States Government displays the costs of United States participation in the Fund, in accordance with the guidelines provided in the President's Commission on Budget Concepts.''. SEC. 3. END OF UNITED STATES PARTICIPATION IN AND SUPPORT FOR THE ENHANCED STRUCTURAL ADJUSTMENT FACILITY OF THE INTERNATIONAL MONETARY FUND. (a) Prohibition on Future Funding.--No officer, employee, or agent of the United States may, directly or indirectly, provide any thing of value to the International Monetary Fund for the purpose of providing resources to the Enhanced Structural Adjustment Facility or other concessional lending facility of the International Monetary Fund. (b) Veto of Use of Available Funds.--Section 5 of the Bretton Woods Agreements Act (22 U.S.C. 286c) is further amended by adding at the end the following: ``The director appointed to represent the United States at the Fund shall use every effort to terminate the Enhanced Structural Adjustment Facility of the Fund within one year after the date of the enactment of this sentence. No director appointed to represent the United States at the Fund shall vote for any proposal to use resources of the Enhanced Structural Adjustment Facility of the Fund for any purpose, except for a proposal to abolish the Facility, use such resources for debt relief, and return any resources remaining after such use to the General Resources of the Fund.''. SEC. 4. NO APPROPRIATIONS FOR THE INTERNATIONAL MONETARY FUND UNTIL THE INTERNATIONAL MONETARY FUND HAS CANCELLED ALL DEBTS OWED TO THE FUND BY THE HEAVILY INDEBTED POOR COUNTRIES AND BY HAITI. Section 5 of the Bretton Woods Agreements Act (22 U.S.C. 286c) is further amended by adding at the end the following: ``No amounts may be appropriated for payment to the Fund until the Fund has cancelled all debts owed to the Fund by the countries eligible for debt relief under the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) Initiative and Haiti, and has financed such debt cancellation from ongoing operations, procedures, and accounts of the Fund established as of the end of the most recent fiscal year.''. SEC. 5. CONDITIONS OF APPROVING QUOTA INCREASE FOR THE INTERNATIONAL MONETARY FUND. Section 5 of the Bretton Woods Agreements Act (22 U.S.C. 286c) is further amended by adding at the end the following: ``No governor or alternate appointed to represent the United States at the International Monetary Fund shall vote for any proposal for any quota increase for the International Monetary Fund, unless, before the proposal was made, the Congress received notice of the proposal and the position of the Executive Branch on the proposal, and the Congress has enacted a joint resolution authorizing the approval of the proposal.''. SEC. 6. EFFECTIVE DATE. This Act and the amendments made by this Act shall take effect 60 days after the date of the enactment of this Act.

Summary: Prohibits U.S. officers, employees or agents from providing any thing of value to the IMF for the purpose of providing resources to the Enhanced Structural Adjustment Facility (ESAF) or other concessional lending facility of the IMF. Amends the Bretton Woods Agreements Act to require the U.S. director of the IMF to use every effort to terminate the ESAF. Prohibits appropriations for payments to the IMF until it has canceled all debts owed to it by HIPCs and Haiti. Prohibits the U.S. governor to the IMF from voting for any proposal for any quota increase for the IMF, unless, before the proposal was made, Congress received notice of the proposal and the position of the Executive Branch on it, and Congress has enacted a joint resolution of approval.


SECTION 1. GRANTS TO STATES AND UNITS OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOR MAKING BACKUP PAPER BALLOTS AVAILABLE IN CASE OF VOTING SYSTEM OR EQUIPMENT FAILURE OR OTHER EMERGENCY SITUATION. (a) Grants by Election Assistance Commission.--The Election Assistance Commission (hereafter referred to as the ``Commission'') shall establish a program under which the Commission shall make a grant to each participating State and each participating unit of local government for carrying out a program to make backup paper ballots available in the case of the failure of a voting system or voting equipment or some other emergency situation in the administration of the regularly scheduled general election for Federal office held in November 2008. (b) Requirements for Eligibility.-- (1) Application.--A State or unit of local government is eligible to participate in the program established by the Commission under this Act if the State or unit of local government submits an application to the Commission at such time and in such manner as the Commission shall require, and includes in the application-- (A) a certification that the State or unit of local government has established a program that meets the requirements of paragraph (2) to make backup paper ballots available in the case of the failure of a voting system or voting equipment or some other emergency situation; (B) a statement of the reasonable costs the State or unit of local government expects to incur in carrying out its program; (C) a certification that, not later than 60 days after the date of the election, the State or unit of local government will provide the Commission with a statement of the actual costs incurred in carrying out its program; (D) a certification that the State or unit of local government will repay the Commission any amount by which the payment made under this Act exceeds the actual costs incurred in carrying out its program; and (E) such other information and certifications as the Commission may require. (2) Program requirements.--The requirements of this paragraph for a program to make backup paper ballots available in the case of the failure of a voting system or voting equipment or some other emergency situation are as follows: (A) In the event that the voting equipment at a polling place malfunctions and cannot be used to cast ballots on the date of the election or some other emergency situation exists which prevents the use of such equipment to cast ballots on that date, any individual who is waiting at the polling place on that date to cast a ballot in the election and who would be delayed due to such malfunction or other emergency situation shall be notified by the appropriate election official of the individual's right to use a backup paper ballot, and shall be provided with a backup paper ballot for the election, the supplies necessary to mark the ballot, and instructions on how to mark the ballot to prevent overvotes. (B) Any backup paper ballot which is cast by an individual pursuant to the program of a State or unit of local government shall be counted as a regular ballot cast in the election and tabulated on the date of the election, and shall not be treated (for eligibility purposes) as a provisional ballot under section 302(a) of the Help America Vote Act of 2002, unless the individual casting the ballot would have otherwise been required to cast a provisional ballot if the voting equipment at the polling place had not malfunctioned or an emergency situation had not existed which prevented the use of such equipment to cast ballots. (C) The program of a State or unit of local government is carried out in accordance with standards established by the State or unit of local government which include protocols for delivering and supplying backup paper ballots to polling places and for notifying individuals of the right to use the backup paper ballots. (c) Amount of Grant.--The amount of a grant made to a State or unit of local government under the program established by the Commission under this Act shall be equal to the amount of the reasonable costs the State or unit of local government expects to incur in carrying out its program, as provided in the application under subsection (b)(1)(B). SEC. 2. STATE DEFINED. In this Act, the term ``State'' includes the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, and the United States Virgin Islands. SEC. 3. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS. There are authorized to be appropriated for grants under the program established by the Commission under this Act $75,000,000. Any amount appropriated pursuant to the authority of this section shall remain available without fiscal year limitation until expended.

Summary: Directs the Election Assistance Commission to make a grant to each participating state and unit of local government for carrying out a program to make backup paper ballots available in the case of the failure of a voting system or voting equipment or some other emergency situation in the administration of the regularly scheduled federal general election held in November 2008.