SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Human Smuggling Prevention Act of 2014''. SEC. 2. ORGANIZED HUMAN SMUGGLING. (a) Prohibited Activities.--Whoever, while acting for profit or other financial gain, knowingly directs or participates in an effort or scheme to assist or cause five or more persons (other than a parent, spouse, or child of the offender)-- (1) to enter, attempt to enter, or prepare to enter the United States-- (A) by fraud, falsehood, or other corrupt means; (B) at any place other than a port or place of entry designated by the Secretary of Homeland Security; or (C) in a manner not prescribed by the immigration laws and regulations of the United States; or (2) to travel by air, land, or sea toward the United States (whether directly or indirectly)-- (A) knowing that the persons seek to enter or attempt to enter the United States without lawful authority; and (B) with the intent to aid or further such entry or attempted entry; or (3) to be transported or moved outside of the United States-- (A) knowing that such persons are aliens in unlawful transit from one country to another or on the high seas; and (B) under circumstances in which the persons are in fact seeking to enter the United States without official permission or legal authority; shall be punished as provided in subsection (c) or (d). (b) Conspiracy and Attempt.--Any person who attempts or conspires to violate subsection (a) of this section shall be punished in the same manner as a person who completes a violation of such subsection. (c) Base Penalty.--Except as provided in subsection (d), any person who violates subsection (a) or (b) shall be fined under title 18, United States Code, imprisoned for not more than 20 years, or both. (d) Enhanced Penalties.--Any person who violates subsection (a) or (b) shall-- (1) in the case of a violation during and in relation to which a serious bodily injury (as such term is defined in section 1365 of title 18, United States Code) occurs to any person, be fined under title 18, United States Code, imprisoned for not more than 30 years, or both; (2) in the case of a violation during and in relation to which the life of any person is placed in jeopardy, be fined under title 18, United States Code, imprisoned for not more than 30 years, or both; (3) in the case of a violation involving ten or more persons, be fined under title 18, United States Code, imprisoned for not more than 30 years, or both; (4) in the case of a violation involving the bribery or corruption of a United States or foreign government official, be fined under title 18, United States Code, imprisoned for not more than 30 years, or both; (5) in the case of a violation involving robbery or extortion (as such terms are defined in paragraph (1) or (2), respectively, of section 1951(b) of title 18, United States Code) be fined under title 18, United States Code, imprisoned for not more than 30 years, or both; (6) in the case of a violation during and in relation to which any person is subjected to an involuntary sexual act (as such term is defined in section 2246(2) of title 18, United States Code), be fined under title 18, United States Code, imprisoned for not more than 30 years, or both; (7) in the case of a violation resulting in the death of any person, be fined under title 18, United States Code, imprisoned for any term of years or for life, or both; (8) in the case of a violation in which any alien is confined or restrained, including by the taking of clothing, goods, or personal identification documents, be fined under title 18, United States Code, imprisoned not fewer than five years and not more than ten years, or both; (9) in the case of smuggling an unaccompanied alien child (as such term is defined in paragraph (2) of section 462(g) of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 279(g)), be fined under title 18, United States Code, imprisoned not more than 20 years. (e) Lawful Authority Defined.--In this section, the term ``lawful authority''-- (1) means permission, authorization, or license that is expressly provided for in the immigration laws of the United States or accompanying regulations; and (2) does not include any such authority secured by fraud or otherwise obtained in violation of law, nor does it include authority sought, but not approved. (f) Effort or Scheme.--For purposes of this section, ``effort or scheme to assist or cause five or more persons'' does not require that the five or more persons enter, attempt to enter, prepare to enter, or travel at the same time so long as the acts are completed within one year. SEC. 3. STRATEGY TO COMBAT HUMAN SMUGGLING. (a) In General.--Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall implement a strategy to deter, detect, and interdict human smuggling across the international land and maritime borders of the United States. (b) Components.--The strategy referred to in subsection (a) shall include, at a minimum, the following components: (1) Efforts to increase coordination between the border and maritime security components of the Department of Homeland Security. (2) An identification of intelligence gaps impeding the ability to deter, detect, and interdict human smuggling across the international land and maritime borders of the United States. (3) Efforts to increase information sharing with State and local governments and other Federal agencies. (4) Efforts to provide, in coordination with the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center, training for the border and maritime security components of the Department of Homeland Security to deter, detect, and interdict human smuggling across the international land and maritime borders of the United States. (5) An identification of the high traffic areas of human smuggling along the international land and maritime borders of the United States. (c) Report.--Not later than 30 days after the implementation of the strategy referred to in subsection (a), the Secretary of Homeland Security shall submit to the Committee on Homeland Security of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the Senate a report that describes such strategy, including the components described in subsection (b). If the Secretary determines that such is appropriate, such report may be submitted in classified form. (d) Annual List of High Traffic Areas.--Not later than February 1 of every year beginning in the year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall submit to the Committee on Homeland Security of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the Senate a list of the high traffic areas of human smuggling referred to in subsection (b)(5). (e) High Traffic Areas of Human Smuggling Defined.--In this Act, the term ``high traffic areas of human smuggling'' means the United States ports of entry and areas between such ports that have the most human smuggling activity, as measured by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. SEC. 4. UNLAWFULLY HINDERING IMMIGRATION, BORDER, AND CUSTOMS CONTROLS. (a) Illicit Spotting.--Whoever knowingly transmits to another person the location, movement, or activities of any Federal, State, or tribal law enforcement agency with the intent to further a Federal crime relating to United States immigration, customs, controlled substances, agriculture, monetary instruments, or other border controls shall be fined under title 18, United States Code, imprisoned not more than 10 years, or both. (b) Destruction of United States Border Controls.--Whoever knowingly and without lawful authorization destroys, alters, or damages any fence, barrier, sensor, camera, or other physical or electronic device deployed by the Federal Government to control the border or a port of entry, or otherwise seeks to construct, excavate, or make any structure intended to defeat, circumvent or evade any such fence, barrier, sensor camera, or other physical or electronic device deployed by the Federal Government to control the border or a port of entry, shall be fined under title 18, United States Code, imprisoned not more than 10 years, or both, and if, at the time of the offense, the person uses or carries a firearm or, in furtherance of any such crime, possesses a firearm, that person shall be fined under title 18, United States Code, imprisoned not more than 20 years, or both. (c) Conspiracy and Attempt.--Any person who attempts or conspires to violate subsection (a) or (b) shall be punished in the same manner as a person who completes a violation of such subsection. (d) Prohibiting Carrying or Use of a Firearm During and in Relation to an Alien Smuggling Crime.--Section 924(c) of title 18, United States Code, is amended-- (1) in paragraph (1)-- (A) in subparagraph (A), by inserting ``, alien smuggling crime,'' after ``crime of violence'' each place such term appears; and (B) in subparagraph (D)(ii), by inserting ``, alien smuggling crime,'' after ``crime of violence''; and (2) by adding at the end the following: ``(6) For purposes of this subsection, the term `alien smuggling crime' means any felony punishable under section 274(a), 277, or 278 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1324(a), 1327, and 1328).''. (e) Statute of Limitations.--Section 3298 of title 18, United States Code, is amended by inserting ``, or under section 2 or subsection (a), (b), or (c) of section 4 of the Human Smuggling Prevention Act of 2014,'' after ``Immigration and Nationality Act''.

Summary: Human Smuggling Prevention Act of 2014 - Prohibits an individual acting for financial gain from directing or participating in an effort to bring or attempt to bring five or more persons unlawfully into the United States. Establishes monetary and/or prison penalties for such actions. Prescribes increased penalties for actions that: (1) result in death or serious bodily injury; (2) place a life in jeopardy; or (3) involve bribery of a government official, robbery, sexual abuse, or 10 or more persons. Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security (DHS) to: (1) implement a strategy to deter and interdict human smuggling across the international land and maritime borders of the United States, and (2) submit an annual list to Congress of high traffic areas of human smuggling. Makes it a crime to: (1) transmit to another person the location, movement, or activities of law enforcement agents with the intent to further a federal crime relating to immigration, customs, controlled substances, agriculture, monetary instruments, or other border controls; and (2) destroy, alter, or damage any physical or electronic device used by the federal government to control the border or any port of entry. Prohibits the carrying or use of a firearm in an alien smuggling crime.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Work Force Diversity Partnership Act of 1993''. SEC. 2. FINDINGS. Congress finds that-- (1) the United States is becoming the most diverse work- place in the world at a time of growing economic dissatisfaction and intense global competition; (2) people of color, caucasian women, and immigrants will account for 85 percent of the net growth in our Nation's labor force during the 1990's; (3) the expectations, characteristics, demands, beliefs, work values, motivating factors and educational backgrounds of individuals in the work force are becoming increasingly diverse; (4) employees, managers, administrators and government officials are inadequately prepared to deal effectively with increased diversity in the work force; (5) increased domestic and international competition require that business, industry and government leaders effectively motivate and manage this diverse work force; (6) as more parents join the work force, it has become increasingly difficult for employees to balance the demands of the workplace with the needs of families; and (7) by understanding and valuing diversity which respects differences, employers emphasize creativity, self initiative, leadership, innovation, and team-work, and thereby improve the working conditions of all Americans and the chances for economic success. SEC. 3. PURPOSE. It is the purpose of this Act to establish a grant program within the Department of Labor to-- (1) study and address issues relating to work force and cultural diversity and their impact on economic competitiveness, employment opportunities, advancement and retention; and (2) develop collaborative public and private sector education and training materials that address the issues of work force and cultural diversity. SEC. 4. DEFINITIONS. As used in this Act-- (1) Federal share.-- (A) In general.--Except as provided in subparagraph (B), the term ``Federal share'' means 50 percent of the cost of each grant awarded under this Act. (B) Exception.--If the Secretary, after consultation with the peer review panel, determines that to do so will further the purposes of this Act, the Secretary may increase the amount of the Federal share. (2) Institution of higher education.--The term ``institution of higher education'' has the same meaning given that term by section 1201(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1141(a)). (3) Non-federal share.-- (A) In general.--The term ``non-Federal share'' means the amount required to be expended by the recipient of a grant under this Act. (B) In-kind services.--Amounts available to pay the non-Federal share under this paragraph may include in- kind services or other resources. (4) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary of Labor. SEC. 5. WORK FORCE DIVERSITY GRANT PROGRAM. (a) Program Authorized.--The Secretary is authorized to award grants to eligible entities to pay the Federal share of the cost of programs established by such entities that are designed to-- (1) target and develop issues relating to work force and cultural diversity; (2) develop public and private sector education and training materials that focus on the issues of work force and cultural diversity; (3) foster research, scholarship, innovative curriculum development, development of teaching materials, and other practicable supportive academic activities relating to such issues; (4) assist in the dissemination and transfer of such materials for use in private sector training efforts as they relate to issues of work force and cultural diversity; and (5) develop and establish cooperative higher education- business training programs to assist public and private industry leaders and workers in addressing the issue of work force diversity. (b) Requirement.--The Secretary shall ensure that the recipient of a grant under this Act agrees to establish, operate, and provide the non-Federal share of the cost of the work force diversity programs for which the grant is made. (c) Duration of Grant.--No grant awarded under this Act may be for a period longer than 3 years. SEC. 6. GRANT RECIPIENT SELECTION. (a) Submission of Proposals.--To be eligible for a grant under this Act an entity shall prepare and submit to the Secretary a proposal, at such time, in such manner and containing such information as the Secretary may reasonably require. (b) Participants.-- (1) In general.--An institution of higher education in partnership with one or more organizations described in paragraph (2), shall be eligible to receive a grant under this Act. (2) Organizations.--An organization referred to in paragraph (1) shall be-- (A) a corporation, business, or partnership, whether for profit or nonprofit; (B) a labor organization; or (C) an organization that has a demonstrated interest or expertise in work force diversity issues. (e) Criteria for Selection.-- (1) In general.--In determining whether to approve a proposal submitted under subsection (a), the Secretary shall take into account-- (A) the extent to which the grant applicant demonstrates a potential to achieve one or more of the purposes of this Act; (B) the level of participation and financial commitment of the participants; (C) the likelihood that a proposed program will foster the creation of increased diversity awareness programs in other institutional environments; (D) the likelihood that the proposed program will result in the development and dissemination of national or regional best practices; (E) the extent to which the project will impact the international competitiveness of the United States economy; and (F) such other criteria as the Secretary may prescribe. (2) Faculty participation.--The Secretary shall encourage partnerships desiring to receive a grant under this Act to submit proposals that are written by teams of faculty from multiple disciplines, student and academic affairs professional, or student organizations concerned with multicultural education, or any combination thereof. (3) Priority.--In awarding grants under this Act, the Secretary shall give priority to grant proposals that demonstrate the availability of sufficient amounts of non- Federal contributions or resources from non-governmental entities. SEC. 7. AREAS OF ACTION. A recipient of a grant under this Act shall use amounts received under such grant to engage in activities in accordance with one or more of the following guidelines: (1) The development of instructional material concerning efforts designed to address cultural and work force diversity issues within the workplace setting. (2) The development of public and private sector education and training materials that will address the issues of work force and cultural diversity. (3) The development of new approaches to work force diversity issues and scholarship efforts to be integrated within the curriculum of business schools, ethnic and women's studies, engineering schools, social science disciplines, humanities and the arts and sciences. In using grant funds under this paragraph, a grantee may employ approaches to be carried out in conjunction with corporate education and training programs. (4) The conduct of research concerning multicultural workplace interactions and team management and business in multicultural and multi-lingual marketplace settings. (5) The implementation of faculty development programs that focus on research, appropriate learning environments, and pedagogical approaches to teaching multicultural management and work diversity issues. (6) The development and dissemination of information concerning models for summer precollege business internship programs that aid in integrating the workplace and in giving students a better understanding of the private sector and of work force diversity issues. (7) The conduct of forums, workshops, and conferences in which representatives from academic, corporate, government, or other institutions with a demonstrated interest or expertise in work force diversity will focus on issues, attitudes and strategies that sensitize managers, employees, faculty, corporate, government and other leaders and workers to workplace diversity issues. (8) Any other activities that the Secretary determines to be appropriate to meet the purposes of this Act. SEC. 8. PEER REVIEW. To assist the Secretary in carrying out this Act, the Secretary shall establish peer review panels to review the merits of grant proposals proposed under this Act. In establishing such panels, the Secretary shall seek the widest participation of qualified individuals from participants, as defined in section 6(b). Each peer review panel shall report the findings and recommendations of the panel to the Secretary. SEC. 9. RECIPIENT REPORTS. Each recipient of a grant under this Act shall prepare and submit an annual report to the Secretary. Each such report shall include a summary of the progress of the activities implemented under the grant to achieve the purposes of this Act, a summary of the expenditures involved, a plan describing the recipient's planned use of funds for the forthcoming year, an explanation of the uses made of the results of the grant program where appropriate, and any other information that the Secretary determines to be appropriate. SEC. 10. REPORT. The Secretary shall annually prepare and submit to the appropriate committees of Congress, a report that shall include an evaluation of the progress made in achieving the purposes of this Act. SEC. 11. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS. There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this Act, $10,000,000 for fiscal year 1994, and such sums as may be necessary for each of the fiscal years 1995 through 1998.

Summary: Work Force Diversity Partnership Act of 1993 - Authorizes the Secretary of Labor to award grants for public-private partnerships to encourage work force diversity through study of relevant issues and development of education and training materials and programs. Makes eligible for such grants institutions of higher education in partnership with for-profit or nonprofit corporations, businesses, or partnerships, labor organizations, or organizations with demonstrated interest or expertise in such issues. Gives priority to grant proposals demonstrating availability of sufficient amounts of non-Federal contributions, or resources from non-governmental entities. Requires peer review panels, recipient reports, and annual reports by the Secretary. Authorizes appropriations.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Public Housing Regulatory Relief Act''. SEC. 2. AUTHORITY TO WAIVE PUBLIC HOUSING PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS. Title I of the United States Housing Act of 1937 (42 U.S.C. 1437 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following new section: ``SEC. 27. WAIVER OF PUBLIC HOUSING PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS. ``(a) Authority.--Upon the written request of a public housing agency or resident management corporation, the Secretary may authorize the agency or corporation to establish policies for the operation, maintenance, management, and development (including modernization) of one or more public housing projects and, in connection with granting such authority and except as provided in subsection (b), may waive or modify (with respect to the project or projects)-- ``(1) the requirements of this Act applicable to public housing; and ``(2) any requirements applicable to the project or projects under other provisions of law that the Secretary determines are not consistent with the policies proposed for the project or projects. ``(b) Limitation.--The Secretary may not waive or modify-- ``(1) any provision of this Act or any other provision of law that limits occupancy of public housing dwelling units to low-income families; ``(2) under section 18 of this Act that requires replacement of dwelling units in the case of demolition or disposition of public housing (except that the limitation on the use of tenant-based assistance to applications proposing demolition or disposition of 200 or more units may be waived); ``(3) any provision of the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970; ``(4) any provision of law that relates to equal opportunity, nondiscrimination, or the environment; or ``(5) any provision of this Act or any other provision of law that relates to labor standards. ``(c) Request for Waiver.--A request under subsection (a) shall-- ``(1) specify the provision or provisions of law to be waived or modified and the waivers or modifications proposed; ``(2) identify the public housing projects for which the waivers or modifications are requested; ``(3) describe the policies to be effective for the projects for which the waivers or modifications are requested; and ``(4) describe the costs to the public housing agency or resident management corporation, and to the Federal Government, of the waivers or modifications requested and the change of policies proposed. ``(d) Minimum Criteria for Approval.--The Secretary may approve a request under subsection (a) only if the Secretary determines that the request-- ``(1) would not, over the term of such authority, result in the Federal Government incurring more costs than the Government would otherwise incur if the request were not approved; ``(2) is consistent with the overall purposes of the public housing program; ``(3) is consistent with the Fair Housing Act, title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, and the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969; and ``(4) such other requirements as the Secretary may establish to carry out the purposes of this section. ``(e) Timing.--Any authority granted to a public housing agency pursuant to subsection (a), including any waiver or modification pursuant to this section of any requirement, shall be effective only for the period established by the Secretary in granting the waiver or modification, which may not exceed 4 years. Upon such expiration and pursuant to a written request, the Secretary may renew such authority for a public housing agency or resident management corporation, subject to the requirements of this section. ``(f) Applicability of State and Local Laws.--The provisions of any applicable State and local laws shall apply to any public housing agency, resident management corporation, and public housing project with respect to which authority is granted under subsection (a). ``(g) Reports.--The Secretary shall require each public housing agency and resident management corporation for which a request under subsection (a) is approved to submit a report to the Secretary annually for each year during the term for which the authority granted under subsection (a) is effective. The report shall describe the activities, operations, and policies of the agency or corporation during the year for which the report is submitted. ``(h) Definition.--For purposes of this section, the term `resident management corporation' means a resident management corporation established in accordance with the requirements of the Secretary under section 20.''. SEC. 3. PHA RETENTION OF SAVINGS REALIZED THROUGH EFFICIENT MANAGEMENT. Section 6(e) of the United States Housing Act of 1937 (42 U.S.C. 1437d(e)) is amended to read as follows: ``(e) Treatment of Savings.--Each contract for contributions shall provide that whenever in any year the receipts of a public housing agency in connection with a low-income housing project exceed its expenditures (including debt service, operation, maintenance, establishment of reserves, and other costs and charges) and the Secretary determines that such excess resulted from increased efficiency in the operation of the agency-- ``(1) an amount equal to one-half of such excess shall be applied, or set aside for application, to purposes which, in the determination of the Secretary, will effect a reduction in the amount of subsequent annual contributions; and ``(2) an amount equal to one-half of such excess shall be applied to operating reserve established for the project and shall not be considered in subsequent years in calculating the operating subsidies provided under section 9 to the public housing agency, except to the extent proposed by the agency in its operating budget.''. SEC. 4. AVAILABILITY OF PUBLIC HOUSING MODERNIZATION FUNDS DURING TERM OF PLAN. Section 14 of the United States Housing Act of 1937 (42 U.S.C. 1437l) is amended-- (1) in subsection (d)(3)(A), by striking ``within each 12- month period covered by such plan''; (2) in subsection (e)(1)(D), by striking ``at least a schedule'' and inserting ``a listing''; (3) in subsection (e)(3)(B), by adding at the end the following new sentence: ``This section may not be construed to require a public housing agency to amend its comprehensive plan under paragraph (1) to be able to (A) use assistance amounts for purposes consistent with the plan but not according to the schedule of actions to be taken under the plan, or (B) use assistance amounts provided to an agency for a fiscal year in another fiscal year covered by the plan for purposes consistent with the plan, notwithstanding the annual statement of activities by the agency under subparagraph (A).''; (4) in subsection (f)(1)(A), by striking ``specified for such year in'' and inserting ``anticipated to be conducted during such year under''; (5) in subsection (g), by striking ``to meet the objectives for the preceding year'' and inserting ``during the preceding year to meet the objectives''; and (6) in subsection (o), by striking ``for the purposes'' and all that follows through ``appropriate'' and inserting the following: ``in any year covered by the plan for the agency under subsection (d)(4) or (e)(1)(D), as appropriate, that was approved by the Secretary and for any purpose specified under or consistent with such plan, notwithstanding the schedule included in such plan pursuant to subsection (d)(3)(A) or (e)(1)(D), as appropriate''. SEC. 5. RECAPTURE OF PUBLIC HOUSING MODERNIZATION FUNDS. Section 14(g) of the United States Housing Act of 1937 (42 U.S.C. 1437(l)(g)) is amended-- (1) by inserting ``(1)'' after ``(g)''; and (2) by adding at the end the following new paragraph: ``(2) The Secretary may establish a system for recapturing and redistributing amounts provided to public housing agencies under this subsection, which shall-- ``(A) provide for the recapture of such amounts only from an agency that, in the determination of the Secretary pursuant to a review under subsection (e)(4)(B) or an audit under subsection (e)(4)(C), has not made reasonable progress in carrying out modernization projects approved by the Secretary under the comprehensive plan for the agency under subsection (d)(4) or (e); ``(B) provide for the redistribution of such recaptured amounts for use by other public housing agencies that, in the determination of the Secretary, need such amounts to carry out the comprehensive plans for such agencies and are capable of using such amounts in a timely manner; ``(C) provide for redistribution to the agencies referred to in subparagraph (B) based on an allocation system that takes into consideration the formula established pursuant to subsection (k)(2)(A); and ``(D) establish an annual schedule for redistribution of amounts recaptured.''. SEC. 6. AUTHORITY FOR PHA'S TO BORROW AGAINST FUTURE PUBLIC HOUSING MODERNIZATION FUNDS. Section 14 of the United States Housing Act of 1937 (42 U.S.C. 1437l) is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection: ``(q) Authority to Borrow Against Future Assistance.-- ``(1) In general.--A public housing agency may, with the approval of the Secretary, enter into an agreement to pay any assistance for which the agency may become eligible under this section to ensure the repayment of notes or other obligations issued by the agency for the purpose of financing development, rehabilitation, or modernization of public housing. ``(2) Terms.--Notes or other obligations for which assistance under this section is pledged shall be in such form and denominations, have such maturities not exceeding 30 years, and be subject to such other conditions as the Secretary may prescribe. The Secretary may not deny a guarantee under this subsection on the basis of the proposed repayment period for the obligation, unless the period exceeds 30 years or the Secretary determines that the period causes the obligation to constitute an unacceptable financial risk. ``(3) Limitation on amount of outstanding obligations.-- Assistance under this section may not be pledged for the repayment of any obligation if the total outstanding principal of all obligations for which such assistance is pledged would thereby exceed an amount equal to 5 times the amount of assistance provided under this section during the most recently completed fiscal year to the agency issuing the obligation. ``(4) Repayment.--Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, assistance provided to an agency under this section may be used in the payment of principal and interest due (including such servicing, underwriting, and other costs as the Secretary may prescribe) on the notes or other obligations issued by the public housing agency pursuant to this subsection.''. SEC. 7. STUDY OF ACQUISITION AND LABOR REQUIREMENTS FOR PUBLIC HOUSING AGENCIES. (a) Study.--The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development shall conduct a study to determine the efficiency of the procedures and requirements applicable to procurement by public housing agencies of materials, supplies, systems, appliances, labor, and services used in maintaining, operating, and modernizing public housing projects. Under the study, the Secretary shall-- (1) compare the existing procurement system for public housing agencies to-- (A) a system of procurement under which public housing agencies procure materials, supplies, systems, appliances, labor, and services for use in maintaining, operating, and modernizing public housing projects without being subject to any requirements established by the Secretary or any other Federal laws or regulations regarding procurement; and (B) a system of procurement that operates in the manner described under subparagraph (A), except that under such system the Secretary would annually review the procurement policies and actions of each public housing agency for the preceding year and would have the authority to establish limitations on procurement policies and activities determined by the Secretary to have instituted inappropriate procurement policies or engaged in inappropriate procurement activities; (2) determine the advantages and disadvantages of procurement pursuant to the existing procurement system for public housing agencies and the systems referred to in subparagraphs (A) and (B) of paragraph (1); and (3) determine the effect of the requirements under section 12 of the United States Housing Act of 1937 (relating to labor standards) on the affordability of dwelling units in public housing. (b) Report.--The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development shall submit a report to the Congress describing the study, the findings of the study, and any recommendations resulting from the study, not later than the expiration of the 2-year period beginning on the date of the enactment of this Act.

Summary: Public Housing Regulatory Relief Act - Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to authorize the waiver (with specified exceptions) of public housing requirements. Permits a public housing agency (PHA) to retain savings realized through efficient management. Authorizes the recapture of public housing modernization funds. Authorizes PHAs to borrow against future modernization funds. Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to study PHA labor and acquisition requirements.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Internet Gambling Prohibition Act of 1997''. SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS. Section 1081 of title 18, United States Code, is amended-- (1) in the matter immediately following the colon, by designating the first 5 undesignated paragraphs as paragraphs (1) through (5), respectively, and moving the indentation of each paragraph 2 ems to the right; (2) in paragraph (5), as so designated-- (A) by striking ``wire communication'' and inserting ``communication''; (B) by striking ``transmission of writings'' and inserting ``transmission or receipt of data, writings''; and (C) by striking ``or other like'' and all that follows before the period and inserting ``radio, electromagnetic, photo-optical, photoelectric, or other similar facility''; and (3) by adding at the end the following: ``(6) Bets or wagers.--The term `bets or wagers'-- ``(A) means the staking or risking by any person of something of value (other than in a de minimis amount, such as postage, filling out a form or survey, or visits to a place where no charge is made for such visits) upon the outcome of a contest of chance or a future contingent event which contest or event is predominantly subject to pure chance, upon an agreement or understanding that the person or another person will receive something of greater value than the amount staked or risked in the event of a certain outcome; ``(B) includes-- ``(i) the purchase of a chance or opportunity to win a lottery or other prize if the opportunity to win is subject to pure chance and the purchase requires a consideration that is not in a de minimis amount as described in subparagraph (A) and ``(ii) information that is intended by the sender to be used by a person engaged in the business of betting or wagering to accept or place a bet or wager; and ``(C) does not include-- ``(i) a bona fide business transaction governed by the securities laws (as that term is defined in section 3(a)(47) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (15 U.S.C. 78c(a)(47))) for the purchase or sale at a future date of securities (as that term is defined in section 3(a)(10) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (15 U.S.C. 78c(a)(10))); ``(ii) a contract of indemnity or guarantee; or ``(iii) a contract for life, health, or accident insurance. ``(7) Information assisting in the placing of bets or wagers.--The term `information assisting in the placing of bets or wagers means information that is sent by a person engaged in the business of betting or wagering that is necessary in order for the recipient to place a bet or wager by means of a communication facility being used in interstate or foreign commerce.''. SEC. 3. TRANSMISSION OF WAGERING INFORMATION; PENALTIES. (a) In General.--Section 1084 of title 18, United States Code, is amended by striking subsections (a) through (c) and inserting the following: ``(a) In General.-- ``(1) Persons engaged in the business of betting or wagering.--Whoever, being engaged in the business of betting or wagering knowingly uses a communication facility for the transmission or receipt in interstate or foreign commerce of bets or wagers, information assisting in the placing of bets or wagers, or a communication that entitles the transmitter or receiver to the opportunity to receive money or credit as a result of bets or wagers made using a communication facility in interstate or foreign commerce, shall be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than 4 years, or both. ``(2) Other persons.--Whoever (other than a person described in paragraph (1)) knowingly uses a communication facility for the transmission or receipt in interstate or foreign commerce of bets or wagers, information assisting in the placing of bets or wagers, or a communication that entitles the transmitter or receiver to the opportunity to receive money or credit as a result of bets or wagers, shall be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than 6 months, or both. ``(b) Exceptions.-- ``(1) News reporting; legal bets and wagers.--Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit the transmission or receipt in interstate or foreign commerce of any information-- ``(A) for use in the news reporting of any activity, event, or contest upon which bets or wagers are based; ``(B) assisting in the placing of bets or wagers, if betting or wagering on such activity, event, or contest-- ``(i) is not illegal in the State or foreign country in which the transmission originates; and ``(ii) is not illegal in each State and each foreign country in which the sender intends the transmission to be received for the purposes of betting or wagering; or ``(C) advertising, promotion, or other communication by, or authorized by, anyone licensed to operate a gambling business in a State in which such business is lawful and in which the recipient of the information must be physically present at the licensed business establishment in order to place a bet or wager or engage in a contest which is conducted at such establishment. ``(2) State law.--Nothing in this section shall be construed to preempt any State law.''. (b) Duties of Common Carriers and Interactive Computer Service Providers.--Subsection (d) of section 1084 of title 18, United States Code, is amended-- (1) by striking ``(d) When'' and inserting the following: ``(c) Duties of Common Carriers and Interactive Computer Service Providers.-- ``(1) In general.--If''; (2) by inserting ``or interactive computer service provider'' after ``common carrier'' each place that term appears; (3) by striking ``Nothing'' and inserting the following: ``(3) Judicial action.--Nothing''; and (4) by inserting after paragraph (1), as amended by subparagraph (1), the following: ``(2) Injunctive relief.--Any State or local law enforcement agency acting within its jurisdiction, may, following the issuance of a notice under paragraph (1), in a civil action, obtain an injunction or other appropriate relief preventing the use of such facility for the purpose of transmitting or receiving gambling information in interstate or foreign commerce in violation of State or local law.''. (c) Stylistic Amendment.--Section 1084(e) of title 18, United States Code, is amended by inserting ``.--Definition''. SEC. 4. SENSE OF THE CONGRESS. It is the sense of the Congress that the Federal Government should have extraterritorial jurisdiction over the transmission to or receipt from the United States of-- (1) bets or wagers (as that term is defined in section 1081 of title 18, United States Code); (2) information assisting in the placing of bets or wagers; and (3) any communication that entitles the transmitter or recipient to the opportunity to receive money or credit as a result of bets or wagers. SEC. 5. REPORT. Not later than one year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Attorney General shall submit a report to Congress that includes-- (1) an analysis of the problems, if any, associated with enforcing section 1084 of title 18, United States Code, as amended by this Act; and (2) recommendations for the best use of the resources of the Department of Justice to enforce that section.

Summary: Internet Gambling Prohibition Act of 1997 - Amends the Federal criminal code to provide penalties against any person who, while engaged in the business of betting or wagering, knowingly uses a communication facility for the transmission or receipt in interstate or foreign commerce of bets or wagers, information assisting in the placing of bets or wagers, or a communication that entitles the transmitter or receiver to receive money or credit as a result of bets or wagers. Provides a smaller penalty for those engaging in such activities who are not in the business of betting or wagering. Provides prohibition exceptions. Authorizes the Federal Communications Commission to enforce against interstate computer service providers regulations prohibiting the interstate or foreign transmission of gambling information. Authorizes injunctive relief against such carriers or providers. Expresses the sense of the Congress that the Federal Government should have extraterritorial jurisdiction over the transmission to or receipt from the United States of gambling information as well as any communication that entitles the transmitter or recipient to receive money or credit as a result of bets or wagers. Requires a report from the Attorney General to the Congress concerning the enforcement of such gambling regulations and related recommendations.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Project SEARCH Act of 2000''. SEC. 2. FINDINGS. Congress finds that-- (1) small communities often struggle to meet environmental goals due to difficulty in securing funding; (2) often, traditional sources of funding for environmental projects require expensive, complex studies or other application materials; (3) a small community that secures funding for an environmental project from a traditional source often is unable to provide matching funds required by the traditional source; and (4) small communities would benefit from a grant program designed to provide funding for environmental projects-- (A) through a simplified application process; and (B) without the requirement of matching funds. SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS. In this Act: (1) Administrator.--The term ``Administrator'' means the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency. (2) Council.--The term ``council'' means an independent citizens' council established by section 4(b) . (3) Environmental project.-- (A) In general.--The term ``environmental project'' means a project that is carried out for the benefit of the public health or welfare or the environment. (B) Inclusion.--The term ``environmental project'' includes an initial feasibility study. (4) Region.--The term ``region'' means a geographic area of a State, as determined by the Governor of the State. (5) SEARCH grant.--The term ``SEARCH grant'' means a grant for special environmental assistance for the regulation of communities and habitat awarded under section 4(c)(3). (6) Small community.--The term ``small community'' means an incorporated or unincorporated community having a population of not more than 2500 individuals. SEC. 4. SEARCH GRANT PROGRAM. (a) In General.-- (1) Establishment.--There is established the SEARCH Grant Program. (2) Grant to council.--Not later than November 1 of each year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall transfer $1,000,000 to the Governor of each State, for use by the council in the State. (b) Independent Citizens' Council.-- (1) Establishment.--There is established in each State an independent citizens' council. (2) Composition.-- (A) In general.-- (i) Representation.--Each council shall be composed of 9 members that broadly represent the general population of the State in which the council is established, as determined by the Governor of the State. (ii) Appointment.--A member of a council shall be appointed by the Governor of the State, except that-- (I) not more than 1 member shall be an agent, employee, or official of the Federal Government; and (II) not more than 1 member shall be an agent, employee, or official of the State government. (B) Chairperson.--Each council shall select a chairperson from among the members of the council, except that a member described in subclause (I) or (II) of subparagraph (A)(ii) shall not serve as chairperson. (3) SEARCH grants.-- (A) In general.--Each council shall review applications for and award SEARCH grants from the funds transferred under subsection (a)(1) to small communities that meet the eligibility criteria under subsection (c). (B) No matching requirement.--A small community that receives a SEARCH grant under this section shall not be required to provide matching funds. (c) SEARCH Grants to Small Communities.-- (1) Eligibility criteria.--Each council may award a SEARCH grant under this section to a small community for an environmental project for which the small community-- (A)(i) is unable to secure funding; or (ii) is underfunded; (B) has incurred unexpected expenses during construction of the environmental project; or (C) needs funds for initial feasibility or environmental studies before applying to traditional funding sources. (2) Application.--To apply for a SEARCH grant under this section, a small community shall submit to the council in the State in which the small community is located an application that includes-- (A) a description of the proposed environmental project (including an explanation of how the project would assist the small community in complying with environmental regulations); (B) an explanation of why the project is important to the community; (C) a description of all actions taken with respect to the project, including any attempt to secure funding, as of the date of the application; and (D) a SEARCH grant application form provided by the council, completed and with all required supporting documentation. (3) Application and review.-- (A) Application.--An application for a SEARCH grant under this section shall be submitted to a council not later than February 5 of the fiscal year for which the grant is to be awarded. (B) Review and award.--Not later than March 5 of each year, each council shall-- (i) review all applications received under subparagraph (A); and (ii) award SEARCH grants to small communities based on an evaluation of the eligibility criteria under paragraph (1). (C) Unexpended funds.-- (i) In general.--If any unexpended funds remain after SEARCH grants are awarded under subparagraph (B), the council may repeat the application and review process so that any remaining funds may be awarded not later than July 30. (ii) Retention of funds.--Any unexpended funds that are not awarded under subparagraph (B) or clause (i) shall be retained by the council for award during the following year. (d) Report.--Not later than September 1 of the first fiscal year for which a SEARCH grant is awarded by a council under this section, and annually thereafter, the council shall submit to the Administrator a report that-- (1) describes the number of SEARCH grants awarded during the fiscal year; (2) identifies each small community that received a SEARCH grant during the fiscal year; (3) describes the project or purpose for which each SEARCH grant was awarded; and (4) describes the status of each project or portion of a project for which a SEARCH grant was awarded, including a project or portion of a project for which a SEARCH grant was awarded for any fiscal year before the fiscal year in which the report is submitted. (e) Authorization of Appropriations.-- (1) Grant funding.-- (A) In general.--There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out section 4(a)(2) $1,000,000 for each State for each fiscal year. (B) Actual appropriation.--If funds to carry out section 4(a)(2) are made available for a fiscal year in an amount that is less than the amount authorized under subparagraph (A) for the fiscal year, the appropriated funds shall be divided equally among the 50 States. (2) Other expenses.--There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as are necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act other than section 4(a)(2).

Summary: Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to transfer $1 million annually to each State Governor for use by independent citizens' councils established by this Act. Directs councils to review applications for and award SEARCH grants from such funds to small communities that: (1) are unable to secure funding or are underfunded for environmental projects; (2) have incurred unexpected expenses during construction of such a project; or (3) need funds for initial feasibility or environmental studies before applying to traditional funding sources. Authorizes appropriations.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Corinth Battlefield Preservation Act of 2000''. SEC. 2. FINDINGS AND PURPOSES. (a) Findings.--Congress finds that-- (1) in 1996, Congress authorized the establishment and construction of a center-- (A) to facilitate the interpretation of the Siege and Battle of Corinth and other Civil War actions in the area in and around the city of Corinth, Mississippi; and (B) to enhance public understanding of the significance of the Corinth campaign and the Civil War relative to the western theater of operations, in cooperation with-- (i) State or local governmental entities; (ii) private organizations; and (iii) individuals; (2) the Corinth Battlefield was ranked as a priority 1 battlefield having critical need for coordinated nationwide action by the year 2000 by the Civil War Sites Advisory Commission in its report on Civil War Battlefields of the United States; (3) there is a national interest in protecting and preserving sites of historic significance associated with the Civil War; and (4) the States of Mississippi and Tennessee and their respective local units of government-- (A) have the authority to prevent or minimize adverse uses of these historic resources; and (B) can play a significant role in the protection of the historic resources related to the Civil War battles fought in the area in and around the city of Corinth. (b) Purposes.--The purposes of this Act are-- (1) to establish the Corinth Unit of the Shiloh National Military Park-- (A) in the city of Corinth, Mississippi; and (B) in the State of Tennessee; (2) to direct the Secretary of the Interior to manage, protect, and interpret the resources associated with the Civil War Siege and the Battle of Corinth that occurred in and around the city of Corinth, in cooperation with-- (A) the State of Mississippi; (B) the State of Tennessee; (C) the city of Corinth, Mississippi; (D) other public entities; and (E) the private sector; and (3) to authorize a special resource study to identify other Civil War sites in and around the city of Corinth that-- (A) are consistent with the themes of the Siege and Battle of Corinth; (B) meet the criteria for designation as a unit of the National Park System; and (C) are considered appropriate for inclusion in the Unit. SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS. In this Act: (1) Map.--The term ``Map'' means the map entitled ``Park Boundary-Corinth Unit'', numbered 304/80,007, and dated October 1998. (2) Park.--The term ``Park'' means the Shiloh National Military Park. (3) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary of the Interior. (4) Unit.--The term ``Unit'' means the Corinth Unit of Shiloh National Military Park established under section 4. SEC. 4. ESTABLISHMENT OF UNIT. (a) In General.--There is established in the States of Mississippi and Tennessee the Corinth Unit of the Shiloh National Military Park. (b) Composition of Unit.--The Unit shall be comprised of-- (1) the tract consisting of approximately 20 acres generally depicted as ``Battery Robinett Boundary'' on the Map; and (2) any additional land that the Secretary determines to be suitable for inclusion in the Unit that-- (A) is under the ownership of a public entity or nonprofit organization; and (B) has been identified by the Siege and Battle of Corinth National Historic Landmark Study, dated January 8, 1991. (c) Availability of Map.--The Map shall be on file and available for public inspection in the office of the Director of the National Park Service. SEC. 5. LAND ACQUISITION. (a) In General.--The Secretary may acquire land and interests in land within the boundary of the Park as depicted on the Map, by-- (1) donation; (2) purchase with donated or appropriated funds; or (3) exchange. (b) Exception.--Land may be acquired only by donation from-- (1) the State of Mississippi (including a political subdivision of the State); (2) the State of Tennessee (including a political subdivision of the State); or (3) the organization known as ``Friends of the Siege and Battle of Corinth''. SEC. 6. PARK MANAGEMENT AND ADMINISTRATION. (a) In General.--The Secretary shall administer the Unit in accordance with this Act and the laws generally applicable to units of the National Park System, including-- (1) the Act entitled ``An Act to establish a National Park Service, and for other purposes'', approved August 25, 1916 (16 U.S.C. 1 et seq.); and (2) the Act entitled ``An Act to provide for the preservation of historic American sites, buildings, objects, and antiquities of national significance, and for other purposes'', approved August 21, 1935 (16 U.S.C. 461 et seq.). (b) Duties.--In accordance with section 602 of the Omnibus Parks and Public Lands Management Act of 1996 (16 U.S.C. 430f-5), the Secretary shall-- (1) commemorate and interpret, for the benefit of visitors and the general public, the Siege and Battle of Corinth and other Civil War actions in the area in and around the city of Corinth within the larger context of the Civil War and American history, including the significance of the Civil War Siege and Battle of Corinth in 1862 in relation to other operations in the western theater of the Civil War; and (2) identify and preserve surviving features from the Civil War era in the area in and around the city of Corinth, including both military and civilian themes that include-- (A) the role of railroads in the Civil War; (B) the story of the Corinth contraband camp; and (C) the development of field fortifications as a tactic of war. (c) Cooperative Agreements.-- (1) In general.--To carry out this Act, the Secretary may enter into cooperative agreements with entities in the public and private sectors, including-- (A) colleges and universities; (B) historical societies; (C) State and local agencies; and (D) nonprofit organizations. (2) Technical assistance.--To develop cooperative land use strategies and conduct activities that facilitate the conservation of the historic, cultural, natural, and scenic resources of the Unit, the Secretary may provide technical assistance, to the extent that a recipient of technical assistance is engaged in the protection, interpretation, or commemoration of historically significant Civil War resources in the area in and around the city of Corinth, to-- (A) the State of Mississippi (including a political subdivision of the State); (B) the State of Tennessee (including a political subdivision of the State); (C) a governmental entity; (D) a nonprofit organization; and (E) a private property owner. (d) Resources Outside the Unit.--Nothing in subsection (c)(2) authorizes the Secretary to own or manage any resource outside the Unit. SEC. 7. AUTHORIZATION OF SPECIAL RESOURCE STUDY. (a) In General.--To determine whether certain additional properties are appropriate for inclusion in the Unit, the Secretary shall conduct a special resource study of land in and around the city of Corinth, Mississippi, and nearby areas in the State of Tennessee that-- (1) have a relationship to the Civil War Siege and Battle of Corinth in 1862; and (2) are under the ownership of-- (A) the State of Mississippi (including a political subdivision of the State); (B) the State of Tennessee (including a political subdivision of the State); (C) a nonprofit organization; or (D) a private person. (b) Contents of Study.--The study shall-- (1) identify the full range of resources and historic themes associated with the Civil War Siege and Battle of Corinth in 1862, including the relationship of the campaign to other operations in the western theater of the Civil War that occurred in-- (A) the area in and around the city of Corinth; and (B) the State of Tennessee; (2) identify alternatives for preserving features from the Civil War era in the area in and around the city of Corinth, including both military and civilian themes involving-- (A) the role of the railroad in the Civil War; (B) the story of the Corinth contraband camp; and (C) the development of field fortifications as a tactic of war; (3) identify potential partners that might support efforts by the Secretary to carry out this Act, including-- (A) State entities and their political subdivisions; (B) historical societies and commissions; (C) civic groups; and (D) nonprofit organizations; (4) identify alternatives to avoid land use conflicts; and (5) include cost estimates for any necessary activity associated with the alternatives identified under this subsection, including-- (A) acquisition; (B) development; (C) interpretation; (D) operation; and (E) maintenance. (c) Report.--Not later than 1 year and 180 days after the date on which funds are made available to carry out this section, the Secretary shall submit a report describing the findings of the study under subsection (a) to-- (1) the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate; and (2) the Committee on Resources of the House of Representatives. SEC. 8. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS. There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as are necessary to carry out this Act, including $3,000,000 for the construction of an interpretive center under section 602(d) of title VI of the Omnibus Parks and Public Lands Management Act of 1996 (16 U.S.C. 430f-5(d)). Speaker of the House of Representatives. Vice President of the United States and President of the Senate.

Summary: Requires the Secretary to study and report to specified congressional committees on whether certain additional properties are appropriate for inclusion in the Unit. Authorizes appropriations.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS. (a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Preventing Unemployment Act of 2010''. (b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents of this Act is as follows: Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents. Sec. 2. Treatment of short-time compensation programs. Sec. 3. Temporary financing of certain short-time compensation payments. Sec. 4. Temporary Federal short-time compensation. Sec. 5. Grants for implementation of State short-time compensation programs. Sec. 6. Assistance and guidance in implementing programs. Sec. 7. Reports. SEC. 2. TREATMENT OF SHORT-TIME COMPENSATION PROGRAMS. (a) Definition.-- (1) In general.--Section 3306 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (26 U.S.C. 3306) is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection: ``(v) Short-Time Compensation Program.--For purposes of this chapter, the term `short-time compensation program' means a program under which-- ``(1) the participation of an employer is voluntary; ``(2) an employer reduces the number of hours worked by employees in lieu of temporary layoffs; ``(3) such employees whose workweeks have been reduced by at least 10 percent, and by not more than the percentage, if any, that is determined by the State to be appropriate, are eligible for unemployment compensation; ``(4) the amount of unemployment compensation payable to any such employee is a pro rata portion of the unemployment compensation which would be payable to the employee if such employee were totally unemployed; ``(5) such employees are not expected to meet the availability for work or work search test requirements while collecting short-time compensation benefits, but are required to be available for their normal workweek; ``(6) eligible employees may participate, as appropriate, in an employer-sponsored training program to enhance job skills if such program has been approved by the State agency; ``(7) the State agency shall require an employer to certify that the employer will continue to provide health benefits and retirement benefits under a defined benefit plan (as defined in section 414(j)) and contributions under a defined contribution plan (as defined in section 414(i)) to any employee whose workweek is reduced under the program under the same terms and conditions as though the workweek of such employee had not been reduced; ``(8) the State agency shall require an employer (or an employer's association which is party to a collective bargaining agreement) to submit a written plan describing the manner in which the requirements of this subsection will be implemented and containing such other information as the Secretary of Labor determines is appropriate; ``(9) in the case of employees represented by a union, the appropriate official of the union has agreed to the terms of the employer's written plan and implementation is consistent with employer obligations under the National Labor Relations Act; and ``(10) only such other provisions are included in the State law as the Secretary of Labor determines appropriate for purposes of a short-term compensation program.''. (2) Effective date.-- (A) In general.--Except as provided in subparagraph (B), the amendment made by paragraph (1) shall take effect on the date of the enactment of this Act. (B) Delay permitted.--In the case of a State that is administering a short-time compensation program as of the date of the enactment of this Act and the State law cannot be administered consistent with the amendment made by paragraph (1), such amendment shall take effect on the earlier of-- (i) the date the State changes its State law in order to be consistent with such amendment; or (ii) the date that is 2 years after the date of the enactment of this Act. (b) Conforming Amendments.-- (1) Internal revenue code of 1986.-- (A) Subparagraph (E) of section 3304(a)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended to read as follows: ``(E) amounts may be withdrawn for the payment of short-time compensation under a short-time compensation program (as defined under section 3306(v));''. (B) Subsection (f) of section 3306 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended-- (i) by striking paragraph (5) (relating to short-term compensation) and inserting the following new paragraph: ``(5) amounts may be withdrawn for the payment of short- time compensation under a short-time compensation program (as defined in subsection (v)); and''; and (ii) by redesignating paragraph (5) (relating to self-employment assistance program) as paragraph (6). (2) Social security act.--Section 303(a)(5) of the Social Security Act is amended by striking ``the payment of short-time compensation under a plan approved by the Secretary of Labor'' and inserting ``the payment of short-time compensation under a short-time compensation program (as defined in section 3306(v) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986)''. (3) Unemployment compensation amendments of 1992.-- Subsections (b) through (d) of section 401 of the Unemployment Compensation Amendments of 1992 (26 U.S.C. 3304 note) are repealed. SEC. 3. TEMPORARY FINANCING OF CERTAIN SHORT-TIME COMPENSATION PAYMENTS. (a) Payments to States.-- (1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (3), there shall be paid to a State an amount equal to 100 percent of the amount of short-time compensation paid under a short-time compensation program (as defined in section 3306(v) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as added by section 2(a)) under the provisions of the State law. Notwithstanding section 2(a)(2), a State administering a short-term compensation program as of the date of the enactment of this Act shall not be eligible to receive payments under this section until the program administered by such State meets the requirements of section 3306(v) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (as so added). Payments shall also be made for additional State administrative expenses incurred (as determined by the Secretary). (2) Terms of payments.--Payments made to a State under paragraph (1) shall be payable by way of reimbursement in such amounts as the Secretary estimates the State will be entitled to receive under this section for each calendar month, reduced or increased, as the case may be, by any amount by which the Secretary finds that the Secretary's estimates for any prior calendar month were greater or less than the amounts which should have been paid to the State. Such estimates may be made on the basis of such statistical, sampling, or other method as may be agreed upon by the Secretary and the State agency of the State involved. (3) Limitations on payments.-- (A) General payment limitations.--No payments shall be made to a State under this section for benefits paid to an individual by the State in excess of 26 weeks of benefits. (B) Employer limitations.--No payments shall be made to a State under this section for benefits paid to an individual by the State under a short-time compensation program if such individual is employed by an employer-- (i) whose workforce during the 3 months preceding the date of the submission of the employer's short-time compensation plan has been reduced by temporary layoffs of more than 20 percent; or (ii) on a seasonal, temporary, or intermittent basis. (b) Applicability.--Payments to a State under subsection (a) shall be available for weeks of unemployment-- (1) beginning on or after the date of the enactment of this Act; and (2) ending on or before the date that is 3 years after the date of the enactment of this Act. (c) Funding and Certifications.-- (1) Funding.--There are appropriated, out of moneys in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, such sums as may be necessary for purposes of carrying out this section. (2) Certifications.--The Secretary shall from time to time certify to the Secretary of the Treasury for payment to each State the sums payable to such State under this section. (d) Definitions.--In this section: (1) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary of Labor. (2) State; state agency; state law.--The terms ``State'', ``State agency'', and ``State law'' have the meanings given those terms in section 205 of the Federal-State Extended Unemployment Compensation Act of 1970 (26 U.S.C. 3304 note). SEC. 4. TEMPORARY FEDERAL SHORT-TIME COMPENSATION. (a) Federal-State Agreements.-- (1) In general.--Any State which desires to do so may enter into, and participate in, an agreement under this section with the Secretary provided that such State's law does not provide for the payment of short-time compensation under-- (A) a short-time compensation program (as defined in section 3306(v) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as added by section 2(a)); or (B) subsections (b) through (d) of section 401 of the Unemployment Compensation Amendments Act of 1992, as in effect on the day before the date of the enactment of this Act. (2) Ability to terminate.--Any State which is a party to an agreement under this section may, upon providing 30 days' written notice to the Secretary, terminate such agreement. (b) Provisions of Federal-State Agreement.-- (1) In general.--Any agreement under this section shall provide that the State agency of the State will make payments of short-time compensation under a plan approved by the State. Such plan shall provide that payments are made in accordance with the requirements under section 3306(v) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as added by section 2(a). (2) Limitations on plans.-- (A) General payment limitations.--A short-time compensation plan approved by a State shall not permit the payment of short-time compensation in excess of 26 weeks. (B) Employer limitations.--A short-time compensation plan approved by a State shall not provide payments to an individual if such individual is employed by an employer-- (i) whose workforce during the 3 months preceding the date of the submission of the employer's short-time compensation plan has been reduced by temporary layoffs of more than 20 percent; or (ii) on a seasonal, temporary, or intermittent basis. (3) Employer payment of costs.--Any short-time compensation plan entered into by an employer must provide that the employer will pay the State an amount equal to one-half of the amount of short-time compensation paid under such plan. Such amount shall be deposited in the State's unemployment fund and shall not be used for purposes of calculating an employer's contribution rate under section 3303(a)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. (c) Payments to States.-- (1) In general.--There shall be paid to each State with an agreement under this section an amount equal to-- (A) one-half of the amount of short-time compensation paid to individuals by the State pursuant to such agreement; and (B) any additional administrative expenses incurred by the State by reason of such agreement (as determined by the Secretary). (2) Terms of payments.--Payments made to a State under paragraph (1) shall be payable by way of reimbursement in such amounts as the Secretary estimates the State will be entitled to receive under this section for each calendar month, reduced or increased, as the case may be, by any amount by which the Secretary finds that the Secretary's estimates for any prior calendar month were greater or less than the amounts which should have been paid to the State. Such estimates may be made on the basis of such statistical, sampling, or other method as may be agreed upon by the Secretary and the State agency of the State involved. (3) Funding.--There are appropriated, out of moneys in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, such sums as may be necessary for purposes of carrying out this section. (4) Certifications.--The Secretary shall from time to time certify to the Secretary of the Treasury for payment to each State the sums payable to such State under this section. (d) Applicability.--An agreement entered into under this section shall apply to weeks of unemployment-- (1) beginning on or after the date on which such agreement is entered into; and (2) ending on or before the date that is 2 years after the date of the enactment of this Act. (e) Transition Rule.--If a State has entered into an agreement under this section and subsequently enacts a State law providing for the payment of short-time compensation under a short-time compensation program (as defined in section 3306(v) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as added by section 2(a)), the State shall not be eligible for payments under this section for weeks of unemployment beginning after the effective date of such State law. (f) Definitions.--In this section: (1) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary of Labor. (2) State; state agency; state law.--The terms ``State'', ``State agency'', and ``State law'' have the meanings given those terms in section 205 of the Federal-State Extended Unemployment Compensation Act of 1970 (26 U.S.C. 3304 note). SEC. 5. GRANTS FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF STATE SHORT-TIME COMPENSATION PROGRAMS. (a) Grants.-- (1) In general.--The Secretary shall award start-up grants to State agencies-- (A) in States that enact short-time compensation programs (as defined in section 3306(v) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as added by section 2(a)) on or after May 1, 2010, for the purpose of creating such programs; and (B) that apply for such grants not later than September 30, 2012. (2) Amount.--The amount of a grant awarded under paragraph (1) shall be an amount determined by the Secretary based on the costs of implementing a short-time compensation program. (3) Only 1 grant per state.--A State agency is only eligible to receive 1 grant under this section. (b) Funding.--There are appropriated, out of moneys in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, such sums as may be necessary for purposes of carrying out this section. (c) Reporting.--The Secretary may establish reporting requirements for State agencies receiving a grant under this section in order to provide oversight of grant funds used by States for the creation of the short-time compensation programs. (d) Definitions.--In this section: (1) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary of Labor. (2) State; state agency.--The terms ``State'' and ``State agency'' have the meanings given those terms in section 205 of the Federal-State Extended Unemployment Compensation Act of 1970 (26 U.S.C. 3304 note). SEC. 6. ASSISTANCE AND GUIDANCE IN IMPLEMENTING PROGRAMS. In order to assist States in establishing, qualifying, and implementing short-time compensation programs (as defined in section 3306(v) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as added by section 2(a)), the Secretary of Labor shall-- (1) develop model legislative language which may be used by States in developing and enacting such programs and periodically review and revise such model legislative language; (2) provide technical assistance and guidance in developing, enacting, and implementing such programs; (3) establish reporting requirements for States, including reporting on-- (A) the number of averted layoffs; (B) the number of participating companies and workers; and (C) such other items as the Secretary of Labor determines are appropriate. SEC. 7. REPORTS. (a) Initial Report.--Not later than 4 years after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Labor shall submit to Congress and to the President a report or reports on the implementation of the provisions of this Act, including an analysis of the significant impediments to State enactment and implementation of short-time compensation programs (as defined in section 3306(v) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as added by section 2(a)). (b) Subsequent Reports.--After the submission of the report under subsection (a), the Secretary of Labor may submit such additional reports on the implementation of short-time compensation programs as the Secretary deems appropriate. (c) Funding.--There are appropriated, out of any moneys in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, to the Secretary of Labor, $1,500,000 to carry out this section, to remain available without fiscal year limitation.

Summary: Preventing Unemployment Act of 2010 - Amends the Federal Unemployment Tax Act (FUTA), the Internal Revenue Code, and the Unemployment Compensation Amendments of 1992 to prescribe requirements for the treatment and temporary financing of voluntary short-time compensation (STC) programs, under which: (1) an employer reduces the number of hours worked by employees in lieu of temporary layoffs; and (2) such employees are eligible for pro-rata unemployment compensation if their workweeks are reduced by between 10% and an appropriate state-determined percentage. Requires payments to states meeting the requirements of this Act in an amount equal to 100% of the STC paid to individuals. Prohibits such STC payments: (1) for more than 26 weeks; or (2) for an employee whose employer's workforce during the three months preceding submission of the employer's STC plan has been reduced by temporary layoffs of more than 20%, or on a seasonal, temporary, or intermittent basis. Authorizes temporary federal-state agreements for STC programs if a state does not currently provide for STC payments under an existing program. Requires employers under an STC plan to pay the state one-half of the amount of STC paid under the plan. Requires federal payments to states in an amount equal to: (1) one-half of the amount of STC paid to individuals by the state; and (2) any additional related administrative expenses incurred by the state. Requires the Secretary of Labor to award one start-up grant to state agencies: (1) in states that enact STC programs on or after May 1, 2010; and (2) that apply for such grants before FY2013. Specifies assistance and guidance the Secretary shall give states in establishing and implementing STC programs.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Protecting Dissenting Viewpoints and Voices Act of 2017''. SEC. 2. VIEWPOINT PROTECTION. (a) Actions by FCC.--Title I of the Communications Act of 1934 (47 U.S.C. 151 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following: ``SEC. 13. VIEWPOINT PROTECTION. ``(a) Prohibition Against Retaliation on Basis of Viewpoint.--The Commission may not revoke any license or other authorization of, or otherwise take action against, any person on the basis, in whole or in part, of viewpoints taken, or not taken, on issues of public importance in content that is broadcast or otherwise disseminated by such person or any person affiliated with such person. ``(b) Prohibition Against Conditions on Viewpoint in Transaction Review.--The Commission may not place on any approval under subsections (a), (b), and (c) of section 214 or section 310(d) any condition with respect to viewpoints to be taken, or not taken, on issues of public importance in content broadcast or otherwise disseminated by the person seeking such approval, any successor of such person, or any person affiliated with such person or successor. ``(c) No Effect on Certain Other Authority of Commission.--Nothing in this section shall be construed to affect the authority of the Commission to take action on the basis of, or to place a condition on an approval described in subsection (b) with respect to-- ``(1) a violation of-- ``(A) section 1304 of title 18, United States Code, or conduct that would constitute a violation of such section if content disseminated by means other than radio or television broadcast were disseminated by means of radio or television broadcast; ``(B) section 1343 of such title; or ``(C) section 1464 of such title, or conduct that would constitute a violation of such section if content disseminated by means other than radio communication were disseminated by means of radio communication; ``(2) a violation of, or conduct that the Commission has the authority to require or prohibit under, section 312(a)(7), 315, or 317 of this Act; ``(3) any public interest obligation under this Act of the person broadcasting or otherwise disseminating the content involved; or ``(4) the broadcast or other dissemination of content that constitutes incitement under the First Amendment to the Constitution.''. (b) Actions at Direction of President.-- (1) Retaliation on basis of viewpoint.--The President may not direct an agency to take any action against any person on the basis, in whole or in part, of viewpoints taken, or not taken, on issues of public importance in content that is broadcast or otherwise disseminated by such person or any person affiliated with such person. (2) Conditions on approvals or other decisions.--The President may not direct an agency to place on any approval or other decision within the jurisdiction of the agency any condition with respect to viewpoints to be taken, or not taken, on issues of public importance in content broadcast or otherwise disseminated by the person seeking such approval or other decision, any successor of such person, or any person affiliated with such person or successor. (3) No effect on certain other authority of president.-- Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to affect the authority of the President-- (A) to direct an agency to take action on the basis of, or to place a condition on an approval or other decision within the jurisdiction of the agency, with respect to-- (i) a violation of-- (I) section 1304 of title 18, United States Code, or conduct that would constitute a violation of such section if content disseminated by means other than radio or television broadcast were disseminated by means of radio or television broadcast; (II) section 1343 of such title; or (III) section 1464 of such title, or conduct that would constitute a violation of such section if content disseminated by means other than radio communication were disseminated by means of radio communication; or (ii) the broadcast or other dissemination of content that constitutes incitement under the First Amendment to the Constitution; or (B) to execute the duties of the President under any provision of law. (4) Agency defined.--In this subsection, the term ``agency'' has the meaning given such term in section 551 of title 5, United States Code.

Summary: Protecting Dissenting Viewpoints and Voices Act of 2017 This bill amends the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) from using the viewpoints that a person broadcasts or otherwise disseminates on issues of public importance as a basis for: (1) revoking the person's licenses or authorizations; (2) taking action against the person; or (3) placing conditions on the FCC's approval of the assignment or transfer of a station license or construction permit or the construction, extension, acquisition, operation, or discontinuation of a communications line. The bill also prohibits the President from directing an agency to take actions against a person, or to condition agency approvals, based on a person's broadcasted or disseminated viewpoints. Nothing in this bill affects the authority of the FCC or the President to take action against violations concerning the broadcast of: (1) obscene or indecent language, fraudulent schemes, or lottery information; or (2) content constituting incitement under the First Amendment. The FCC may continue to enforce broadcast requirements that: (1) permit candidates to federal elective office to purchase reasonable broadcast time, (2) allow equal broadcast opportunities for all candidates for public office, and (3) require disclosures of paid broadcasts. The President may continue to direct agencies to take actions to execute the President's legal duties.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Skilled Workforce Enhancement Act of 1998''. SEC. 2. CREDIT FOR EXPENSES FOR TRAINING EMPLOYEES IN HIGHLY SKILLED METALWORKING TRADES. (a) In General.--Subpart D of part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to business-related credits) is amended by adding at the end the following new section: ``SEC. 45D. EXPENSES FOR TRAINING EMPLOYEES IN HIGHLY SKILLED METALWORKING TRADES. ``(a) General Rule.--For purposes of section 38, the highly skilled metalworking trades training credit determined under this section is an amount equal to 80 percent of the training expenses paid or incurred by the taxpayer during the training period with respect to each qualified trained employee of the taxpayer. Twenty percent of the credit determined under the preceding sentence shall be taken into account under section 38 for each of the first 5 taxable years after the taxable year in which the training period ends. ``(b) Limitations.-- ``(1) Maximum credit per employee.--The total amount of credit determined under this section with respect to each qualified trained employee for all taxable years shall not exceed $100,000. ``(2) Employer must be small employer.--Training expenses may be taken into account under subsection (a) only if the taxpayer is a small employer for the taxable year in which such expenses are paid or incurred. ``(c) Definitions.--For purposes of this section-- ``(1) Qualified trained employee.-- ``(A) In general.--The term `qualified trained employee' means any employee (or former employee) of the taxpayer if-- ``(i) the employee received at least 8,000 hours of training (including on-the-job training) from the taxpayer (or any predecessor) during the training period as an apprentice in any highly skilled metalworking trade, and ``(ii) the employee is employed by the taxpayer in a journeyman capacity in any highly skilled metalworking trade on a full-time basis throughout at least the 1-year period beginning at the end of such employee's training period. ``(B) Highly skilled metalworking trades.--For purposes of subparagraph (A), the term `highly skilled metalworking trades' means the trades traditionally recognized as such, including precision machinists, die makers, mold makers, and tool and die designers in the tooling and machining industry. ``(2) Training expenses.-- ``(A) In general.--The term `training expenses' means wages paid or incurred to an employee of the taxpayer for services performed in a highly skilled metalworking trade while the employee is an apprentice in such trade. ``(B) Wages.--The term `wages' has the meaning given such term by section 3401(a). ``(3) Training period.--The term `training period' means the period of 4 years beginning on the date that the employee begins employment with the taxpayer as an apprentice in a highly skilled metalworking trade. ``(4) Small employer.-- ``(A) In general.--The term `small employer' means, with respect to any taxable year, any employer who employed an average of 500 or fewer employees on business days during such taxable year. ``(B) Controlled groups.--For purposes of subparagraph (A), all persons treated as a single employer under subsection (b), (c), (m), or (o) of section 414 shall be treated as 1 employer. ``(d) Coordination With Other Credits.--Wages taken into account under subsection (a) shall not be taken into account in determining the credits under sections 51(a) and 1396(a).''. (b) Credit Made Part of General Business Credit.--Subsection (b) of section 38 of such Code is amended by striking ``plus'' at the end of paragraph (11), by striking the period at the end of paragraph (12) and inserting ``, plus'', and by adding at the end the following new paragraph: ``(13) the highly skilled metalworking trades training credit determined under section 45D(a).''. (c) Denial of Double Benefit.--Section 280C of such Code is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection: ``(d) Credit for Training Expenses for Employees in Highly Skilled Metalworking Trades.--No deduction shall be allowed for that portion of the expenses otherwise allowable as a deduction for the taxable year which is equal to the amount of the credit determined for such taxable year under section 45D(a).''. (d) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections for subpart D of part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1 of such Code is amended by adding at the end the following new item: ``Sec. 45D. Expenses for training employees in highly skilled metalworking trades.''. (e) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall apply to expenses paid or incurred after the date of the enactment of this Act in taxable years ending after such date.

Summary: Skilled Workforce Enhancement Act of 1998 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide small employers with an income tax credit for certain long-term training of employees in highly skilled metalworking trades.