SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``National Advisory Commission on Tax Reform and Simplification Act of 2001''. SEC. 2. PURPOSE. The purpose of this Act is to establish a commission to study and report back to Congress recommendations on simplifying, reforming, or replacing the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. SEC. 3. FINDINGS. The Congress finds the following: (1) The Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is overly complex, imposes significant burdens on individuals, businesses, and the economy, is extremely difficult for the Internal Revenue Service to administer, and is in need of fundamental reform and simplification. (2) Many of the problems encountered by taxpayers in dealing with the Internal Revenue Service--especially those arising from misunderstandings of the Code--could be eliminated or alleviated by fundamental reform and simplification. (3) The Internal Revenue Service faces continual difficulty in administering an overly lengthy, complex, and confusing tax code. (4) Taxpayers and tax experts have repeatedly called for a simplification of the current tax code. (5) The complexity of the current code places a significant burden on individual filers, including extensive record keeping, time requirements to prepare returns, gaining an understanding of the exemptions for which they may qualify, and other burdens. This has forced the majority of taxpayers to turn to tax professionals to prepare their tax returns. (6) Congress is continually modifying and correcting the Code, leading to annual uncertainty and only adding to the patchwork of complexity and confusion. (7) The Federal Government's present fiscal outlook for continuing and sustained budget surpluses provides a unique opportunity for the Congress to consider measures for fundamental reform and simplification of the tax laws. (8) Recent efforts to simplify or reform the tax laws have not been successful due in part to the difficulty of developing broad-based, nonpartisan support for proposals to make such changes. SEC. 4. ESTABLISHMENT OF A NATIONAL COMMISSION ON TAX REFORM AND SIMPLIFICATION. (a) In General.--To carry out the purposes of this Act, there is established within the legislative branch a National Advisory Commission on Tax Reform and Simplification (in this Act referred to as the ``Commission''), comprised of 15 members. The membership of the Commission shall be as follows: (1) 3 members appointed by the President, 2 from the executive branch of the Government and 1 from private life. (2) 4 members appointed by the majority leader of the Senate, 1 from Members of the Senate and 3 from private life. (3) 2 members appointed by the minority leader of the Senate, 1 from Members of the Senate and 1 from private life. (4) 4 members appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, 1 from Members of the House of Representatives and 3 from private life. (5) 2 members appointed by the minority leader of the House of Representatives, 1 from Members of the House of Representatives and 1 from private life. (b) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that the President and congressional leadership should draw from a number of important areas of expertise in composing the Commission, including tax experts familiar with corporate tax issues, international tax issues, small business tax issues, and family and individual tax issues. (c) Appointments.--Appointments to the Commission shall be made not later than 45 days after the date of the enactment of this Act. SEC. 5. RULES OF THE COMMISSION. (a) Quorum.--Nine members of the Commission shall constitute a quorum for conducting the business of the Commission. (b) Initial Meeting.--If, after 60 days from the date of the enactment of this Act, 5 or more members of the Commission have been appointed, members who have been appointed may meet and select the Chair (or Co-chairs) who thereafter shall have the authority to begin the operations of the Commission, including the hiring of staff. (c) Rules.--The Commission may adopt such other rules as it considers appropriate. (d) Vacancies.--Any vacancy in the Commission shall not affect its powers, but shall be filled in the same manner in which the original appointment was made. Any meeting of the Commission or any subcommittee thereof may be held in executive session to the extent that the Chair (Co-Chairs, if elected) or a majority of the members of the Commission or subcommittee determine appropriate. (e) Continuation of Membership.--Any individual who appointed a member to the Commission by virtue of holding a position described in section 4 ceases to hold such position before the report of the Commission is submitted, that member may continue as a member for not longer than the 30-day period beginning on the date that such individual ceases to hold such position. SEC. 6. DUTIES OF THE COMMISSION. (a) In General.--The duties of the Commission shall include-- (1) to conduct, for a period of not to exceed 18 months from the date of its first meeting, the review described in subsection (b); and (2) to submit to the Congress a report of the results of such review, including recommendations for fundamental reform and simplification of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as described in section 10. (b) Review and Issuing Proposals.--The Commission shall review and, when applicable, issue proposals on-- (1) the present structure and provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, especially with respect to-- (A) its impact on the economy (including the impact on savings, capital formation, capital investment, and international trade); (B) its impact on families and the workforce (including issues relating to distribution of tax burden and impact on small businesses); (C) the predictability of the tax code from year to year; (D) the compliance cost to taxpayers and businesses; and (E) the ability of the Internal Revenue Service to administer such provisions; (2) whether tax systems imposed under the laws of other countries could provide more efficient, simple, and fair methods of funding the revenue requirements of the Government; (3) whether the income tax should be replaced with a tax imposed in a different manner or on a different base; and (4) whether the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 can be simplified, absent wholesale restructuring or replacement thereof. SEC. 7. POWERS OF THE COMMISSION. (a) In General.--The Commission or, on the authorization of the Commission, any subcommittee or member thereof, may, for the purpose of carrying out the provisions of this Act, hold such hearings and sit and act at such times and places, take such testimony, receive such evidence, and administer such oaths, as the Commission or such designated subcommittee or designated member may deem advisable. (b) Contracting.--The Commission may, to such extent and in such amounts as are provided in appropriation Acts, enter into contracts to enable the Commission to discharge its duties under this Act. (c) Assistance From Federal Agencies and Offices.-- (1) Information.--The Commission is authorized to secure directly from any executive department, bureau, agency, board, commission, office, independent establishment, or instrumentality of the Government, as well as from any committee or other office of the legislative branch, such information, suggestions, estimates, and statistics as it requires for the purposes of its review and report. Each such department, bureau, agency, board, commission, office, establishment, instrumentality, or committee shall, to the extent not prohibited by law, furnish such information, suggestions, estimates, and statistics directly to the Commission, upon request made by the Chair (Co-chairs, if elected). (2) Treasury department.--The Secretary of the Treasury is authorized on a nonreimbursable basis to provide the Commission with administrative services, funds, facilities, staff, and other support services for the performance of the Commission's functions. (3) General services administration.--The Administrator of General Services shall provide to the Commission on a nonreimbursable basis such administrative support services as the Commission may request. (4) Joint committee on taxation.--The staff of the Joint Committee on Taxation is authorized on a nonreimbursable basis to provide the Commission with such legal, economic, or policy analysis, including revenue estimates, as the Commission may request. (5) Other assistance.--In addition to the assistance set forth in paragraphs (1), (2), (3), and (4), departments and agencies of the United States are authorized to provide to the Commission such services, funds, facilities, staff, and other support services as they may deem advisable and as may be authorized by law. (6) Postal services.--The Commission may use the United States mails in the same manner and under the same conditions as departments and agencies of the United States. (7) Gifts.--The Commission may accept, use, and dispose of gifts or donations of services or property in carrying out its duties under this Act. SEC. 8. STAFF OF THE COMMISSION. (a) In General.--The Chair (Co-Chairs, if elected), in accordance with rules agreed upon by the Commission, may appoint and fix the compensation of a staff director and such other personnel as may be necessary to enable the Commission to carry out its functions without regard to the provisions of title 5, United States Code, governing appointments in the competitive service, and without regard to the provisions of chapter 51 and subchapter III or chapter 53 of such title relating to classification and General Schedule pay rates, except that no rate of pay fixed under this subsection may exceed the equivalent of that payable to a person occupying a position at level V of the Executive Schedule under section 5316 of title 5, United States Code. Any Federal Government employee may be detailed to the Commission without reimbursement from the Commission, and such detailee shall retain the rights, status, and privileges of his or her regular employment without interruption. (b) Consultant Services.--The Commission is authorized to procure the services of experts and consultants in accordance with section 3109 of title 5, United States Code, but at rates not to exceed the daily rate paid a person occupying a position at level IV of the Executive Schedule under section 5315 of title 5, United States Code. SEC. 9. COMPENSATION AND TRAVEL EXPENSES. (a) Compensation.-- (1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph (2), each member of the Commission may be compensated at not to exceed the daily equivalent of the annual rate of basic pay in effect for a position at level IV of the Executive Schedule under section 5315 of title 5, United States Code, for each day during which that member is engaged in the actual performance of the duties of the Commission. (2) Exception.--Members of the Commission who are officers or employees of the United States or Members of Congress shall receive no additional pay on account of their service on the Commission. (b) Travel Expenses.--While away from their homes or regular places of business in the performance of services for the Commission, members of the Commission shall be allowed travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of subsistence, in the same manner as persons employed intermittently in the Government service are allowed expenses under section 5703(b) of title 5, United States Code. SEC. 10. REPORT OF THE COMMISSION; TERMINATION. (a) Report.--Not later than 18 months after the date of the first meeting of the Commission, the Commission shall submit a report to the Committee on Ways and Means of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Finance of the Senate. The report of the Commission shall describe the results of its review under section 6(b), shall make such recommendations for fundamental reform and simplification of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 as the Commission considers appropriate, and shall describe the expected impact of such recommendations on the economy and progressivity and general administrability of the tax laws. (b) Termination.-- (1) In general.--The Commission, and all the authorities of this Act, shall terminate on the date which is 90 days after the date on which the report is required to be submitted under subsection (a). (2) Concluding activities.--The Commission may use the 90- day period referred to in paragraph (1) for the purposes of concluding its activities, including providing testimony to committees of Congress concerning its report and disseminating that report. (c) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary for the activities of the Commission. Until such time as funds are specifically appropriated for such activities, $2,000,000 shall be available from fiscal year 2001 funds appropriated to the Department of the Treasury, ``Departmental Offices'' account, for the activities of the Commission, to remain available until expended.

Summary: National Advisory Commission on Tax Reform and Simplification Act of 2001 - Establishes within the legislative branch a National Advisory Commission on Tax Reform and Simplification which shall review and, when applicable, issue proposals on: (1) the present structure and provisions of the Internal Revenue Code; (2) whether tax systems imposed under the laws of other countries could provide more efficient, simple, and fair methods of funding the revenue requirements of the Government; (3) whether the income tax should be replaced with a tax imposed in a different manner or on a different base; and (4) whether the Internal Revenue Code can be simplified, absent wholesale restructuring or replacement.Authorizes appropriations for the Commission. Terminates the Commission after the submission of a report.


SECTION 1. THREE-YEAR MODIFICATION OF PROCEDURES RELATING TO ASSISTANCE FOR COUNTRIES NOT COOPERATING WITH UNITED STATES COUNTERDRUG EFFORTS. (a) In General.--Chapter 8 of part I of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2291 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following new section: ``SEC. 490A. LIMITATIONS DURING FISCAL YEARS 2002, 2003, AND 2004 ON ASSISTANCE FOR COUNTRIES NOT COOPERATING WITH UNITED STATES COUNTERDRUG EFFORTS. ``(a) Annual Identification of Countries Not Cooperating.--Not later than November 1 of 2001, 2002, and 2003, the President shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report identifying each country, if any, that the President proposes to be subject to the provisions of subsection (f) in the fiscal year in which the country is so identified by reason that such country-- ``(1) is not cooperating fully with the United States in achieving full compliance with the goals and objectives of the United Nations Convention Against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances; ``(2) is not taking adequate steps on its own to achieve full compliance with the goals and objectives of the Convention; or ``(3) is not taking adequate steps to achieve full compliance with the goals and objectives of a bilateral agreement with the United States on illicit drug control. ``(b) Countries Subject to Withholding of Bilateral Assistance and Opposition to Multilateral Assistance.-- ``(1) Identification.--Not later than March 1 of 2002, 2003, and 2004, the President shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report identifying each country, if any, that shall be subject to the provisions of subsection (f) during the fiscal year in which the country is so identified under this subsection by reason of its identification in the most recent report under subsection (a). ``(2) Limitation on countries identified.--A country may be identified in a report under paragraph (1) only if the country is also identified in the most recent report under subsection (a). ``(c) Considerations Regarding Cooperation.--In determining whether or not a country is to be identified in a report under subsection (a) or (b), the President shall consider the extent to which the country-- ``(1) has met the goals and objectives of the United Nations Convention Against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances, including action on such matters as illicit cultivation, production, distribution, sale, transport, financing, money laundering, asset seizure, extradition, mutual legal assistance, law enforcement and transit cooperation, precursor chemical control, and demand reduction; ``(2) has accomplished the goals described in the applicable bilateral narcotics control agreement with the United States or a multilateral agreement; ``(3) has taken legal and law enforcement measures to prevent and punish public corruption, especially by senior government officials, that facilitates the production, processing, or shipment of narcotic and psychotropic drugs and other controlled substances, or that discourages the investigation or prosecution of such acts; and ``(4) in the case of a country that is a producer of licit opium-- ``(A) maintains licit production and stockpiles of opium at levels no higher than those consistent with licit market demand; and ``(B) has taken adequate steps to prevent significant diversion of its licit cultivation and production of opium into illicit markets and to prevent illicit cultivation and production of opium. ``(d) Omission for National Security Reasons.-- ``(1) In general.--The President may omit from identification in a report under subsection (b) a country identified in the most recent report under subsection (a) if the President determines that the vital national security interests of the United States require that the country be so omitted. ``(2) Notice to congress.--If the President omits a country under paragraph (1) from a report under subsection (b), the President shall include in the report under that subsection-- ``(A) a full and complete description of the vital national security interests of the United States placed at risk if the country is not so omitted; and ``(B) a statement weighing the risk described in subparagraph (A) against the risk posed to the vital national security interests of the United States by reason of the failure of the country to cooperate fully with the United States in combatting narcotics or to take adequate steps to combat narcotics on its own. ``(e) Congressional Action.-- ``(1) In general.--The provisions of subsection (f) shall apply to a country in a fiscal year if Congress enacts a joint resolution, not later than March 30 of the fiscal year, providing that such provisions shall apply to the country in the fiscal year. ``(2) Covered countries.--A joint resolution referred to in paragraph (1) may apply to a country for a fiscal year only if the country was not identified in the report in the fiscal year under subsection (b). ``(3) Senate procedures.--Any joint resolution under this subsection shall be considered in the Senate in accordance with the provisions of section 601(b) of the International Security Assistance and Arms Export Control Act of 1976 (Public Law 94- 329; 90 Stat. 765), except that for purposes of that section the certification referred to in section 601(a)(2)(B) of that Act shall be the applicable report of the President under subsection (b) of this section. ``(f) Withholding of Bilateral Assistance and Opposition to Multilateral Assistance.-- ``(1) Bilateral assistance.--Commencing on March 1 of a fiscal year in which a country is identified in a report under subsection (b), or March 31 in the case of a country covered by a joint resolution enacted in accordance with subsection (e), fifty percent of the United States assistance allocated to the country for the fiscal year in the report required by section 653 shall be withheld from obligation and expenditure. ``(2) Multilateral assistance.--Commencing on March 1 of a year in which a country is identified in a report under subsection (b), or March 31 in the case of a country covered by a joint resolution enacted in accordance with subsection (e), the Secretary of the Treasury shall instruct the United States Executive Director of each multilateral development bank to vote, on and after that date, against any loan or other utilization of the funds of such institution for the country. ``(3) Multilateral development bank defined.--In this subsection, the term `multilateral development bank' means the following: ``(A) The International Bank for Reconstruction and Development. ``(B) The International Development Association. ``(C) The Inter-American Development Bank. ``(D) The Asian Development Bank. ``(E) The African Development Bank. ``(F) The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. ``(g) Appropriate Committees of Congress Defined.--In this section, the term `appropriate committees of Congress' means the following: ``(1) The Committees on Foreign Relations and Appropriations of the Senate. ``(2) The Committees on International Relations and Appropriations of the House of Representatives.''. (b) Relationship to Current Certification Process.--Section 490 of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2291j) is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection: ``(i) Limitation on Applicability.--This section shall not apply during fiscal years 2002, 2003, and 2004. For limitations on assistance during those fiscal years for countries not cooperating with United States counterdrug efforts see section 490A.''. (c) Conforming Amendment.--Section 489(a)(3)(A) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2291h(a)(3)(A)) is amended by inserting after ``under section 490(h)'' the following ``or, in 2002, 2003, and 2004, as otherwise determined by the President for purposes of this section''. SEC. 2. INCLUSION OF MAJOR DRUG TRAFFICKING ORGANIZATIONS IN INTERNATIONAL NARCOTICS CONTROL STRATEGY REPORT. Section 489 of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2291h), as amended by this Act, is further amended-- (1) in subsection (a), by adding after the flush matter at the end of paragraph (7) the following new paragraph (8): ``(8) The identity of each organization determined by the President to be a major drug trafficking organization, including a description of the activities of such organization during the 2 fiscal years preceding the fiscal year of the report.''; and (2) by adding at the end the following new subsection: ``(c) Definitions.--In this section: ``(1) Major drug trafficking organization.--The term `major drug trafficking organization' means any organization engaged in substantial amounts of illicit activity to cultivate, produce, manufacture, distribute, sell, finance, or transport narcotic drugs, controlled substances, or listed chemicals, engages in money laundering or proceeds from such activities, or otherwise endeavor or attempt to do so, or to assist, abet, conspire, or collude with others to do so. ``(2) Narcotic drug; controlled substance; listed chemical.--The terms `narcotic drug', `controlled substance', and `listed chemical' have the meanings given those terms in section 102 of the Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 802).''.

Summary: Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to modify, for a three year period, certain procedures for the provision of development assistance to foreign countries not cooperating with U.S. counterdrug efforts. Requires the President, for each fiscal year during such period, to identify to the appropriate congressional committees any country the President proposes to subject (with enactment of a joint resolution by Congress) to the withholding of half of any allocated bilateral assistance, and to opposition to any multilateral assistance to such country, because it is not: (1) cooperating with the United States in achieving full compliance with the goals and objectives of the United Nations Convention Against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances; (2) taking adequate steps on its own to achieve full compliance with the Convention; or (3) taking adequate steps to achieve full compliance with a bilateral agreement with the United States on illicit drug control.Requires the inclusion of the identity of major drug trafficking organizations in the President's annual international narcotics control strategy report.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS. (a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Veterans Health Care Facilities Capital Improvement Act of 2011''. (b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this Act is as follows: Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents. Sec. 2. Authorization of fiscal year 2012 major medical facility projects. Sec. 3. Modification of authorization for certain major medical facility construction projects previously authorized. Sec. 4. Authorization of fiscal year 2012 major medical facility leases. Sec. 5. Authorization of appropriations. Sec. 6. Modification of requirements relating to congressional approval of certain medical facility acquisitions. Sec. 7. Limitation on authority of Secretary of Veterans Affairs to use bid savings on major construction projects to expand purpose of major medical facility projects. Sec. 8. Name of Department of Veterans Affairs telehealth clinic, Craig, Colorado. Sec. 9. George H. O'Brien, Jr., Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Sec. 10. Extension of certain expiring authorities. Sec. 11. Authorization of appropriations for comprehensive service programs for homeless veterans. Sec. 12. Reauthorization of appropriations for financial assistance for supportive services for very low-income veteran families in permanent housing. Sec. 13. Extension of grant program for homeless veterans with special needs. Sec. 14. Extension of specially adapted housing assistance for individuals residing temporarily in housing owned by a family member. Sec. 15. Extension of funding fees. Sec. 16. Notice and verification of the use of income information from other agencies. Sec. 17. Termination or reduction of certain benefits and services based on income information obtained from other agencies. SEC. 2. AUTHORIZATION OF FISCAL YEAR 2012 MAJOR MEDICAL FACILITY PROJECTS. The Secretary of Veterans Affairs may carry out the following major medical facility projects in fiscal year 2012, with each project to be carried out in the amount specified for each project: (1) Construction of seismic corrections for Building 100 at the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Seattle, Washington, in an amount not to exceed $51,800,000. (2) Construction of seismic corrections and renovation of various buildings to include Building 209 for housing facilities for homeless veterans at the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in West Los Angeles, California, in an amount not to exceed $35,500,000. SEC. 3. MODIFICATION OF AUTHORIZATION FOR CERTAIN MAJOR MEDICAL FACILITY CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS PREVIOUSLY AUTHORIZED. (a) Modification of Authorization of Fiscal Year 2007 Major Medical Facility Project at Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Fayetteville, Arkansas.--Section 803(3) of the Veterans Benefits, Health Care, and Information Technology Act of 2006 (Public Law 109- 461) is amended-- (1) by inserting ``and a parking garage'' after ``clinical addition''; and (2) by striking ``$56,163,000'' and inserting ``$90,600,000''. (b) Modification of Extension of Authorization for Major Medical Facility Construction Project in Orlando, Florida, Previously Authorized in Connection With Capital Asset Realignment Initiative.-- Section 802(11) of the Veterans Benefits, Health Care, and Information Technology Act of 2006 (Public Law 109-461), as amended by section 702(b)(4) of the Veterans' Mental Health and Other Care Improvements Act of 2008 (Public Law 110-387; 122 Stat. 4137), is amended by inserting ``, including a Simulation, Learning, Education, and Research Network Center,'' after ``Florida, area''. (c) Increase in Amount of Authorization of Fiscal Year 2008 Major Medical Facility Project at Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Palo Alto, California.--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs may carry out the major medical facility project at the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Palo Alto, California, for which amounts were appropriated under chapter 3 of title I of the Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2008 (Public Law 110-252; 122 Stat. 2326) under the heading ``construction, major projects'' under the heading ``DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS'' in an amount not to exceed $716,600,000. (d) Increase in Amount of Authorization of Fiscal Year 2009 Major Medical Facility Project at Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Juan, Puerto Rico.--Section 701(3) of the Veterans' Mental Health and Other Care Improvements Act of 2008 (Public Law 110-387; 122 Stat. 4137) is amended by striking ``$225,900,000'' and inserting ``$277,000,000''. (e) Increase in Amount of Authorization of Fiscal Year 2007 Major Medical Facility Project at Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, St. Louis, Missouri.--Section 803(5) of the Veterans Benefits, Health Care, and Information Technology Act of 2006 (Public Law 109- 461) is amended by striking ``$69,053,000'' and inserting ``$346,300,000''. SEC. 4. AUTHORIZATION OF FISCAL YEAR 2012 MAJOR MEDICAL FACILITY LEASES. The Secretary of Veterans Affairs may carry out the following fiscal year 2012 major medical facility leases at the locations specified, in an amount not to exceed the amount shown for that location: (1) Columbus, Georgia, Community-Based Outpatient Clinic, in an amount not to exceed $5,335,000. (2) Fort Wayne, Indiana, Outpatient Clinic, in an amount not to exceed $2,845,000. (3) Mobile, Alabama, Outpatient Clinic, in an amount not to exceed $6,565,000. (4) Rochester, New York, Outpatient Clinic, in an amount not to exceed $9,232,000. (5) Salem, Oregon, Community-Based Outpatient Clinic, in an amount not to exceed $2,549,000. (6) San Jose, California, Outpatient Clinic, in an amount not to exceed $9,546,000. (7) South Bend, Indiana, Outpatient Clinic, in an amount not to exceed $6,731,000. (8) Springfield, Missouri, Community-Based Outpatient Clinic, in an amount not to exceed $6,489,000. SEC. 5. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS. (a) Authorization of Appropriations for Construction.--There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for fiscal year 2012 or the year in which funds are appropriated for the Construction, Major Projects, account $87,300,000 for the projects authorized in section 2. (b) Modification of Authorization for Certain Major Medical Facility Construction Projects Previously Authorized.--There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for fiscal year 2012 or the year in which funds are appropriated for the Construction, Major Projects, account $850,070,000 for the projects authorized in section 3. (c) Authorization of Appropriations for Medical Facility Leases.-- There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for fiscal year 2012 or the year in which funds are appropriated for the Medical Facilities account $49,292,000 for the leases authorized in section 4. (d) Limitation.--The projects authorized in sections 2, 3, and 4 may only be carried out using-- (1) funds appropriated for fiscal year 2012 pursuant to the authorization of appropriations in subsection (a) of this section; (2) funds available for Construction, Major Projects, for a fiscal year before fiscal year 2012 that remain available for obligation; (3) funds available for Construction, Major Projects, for a fiscal year after fiscal year 2012 that remain available for obligation; (4) funds appropriated for Construction, Major Projects, for fiscal year 2012 for a category of activity not specific to a project; (5) funds appropriated for Construction, Major Projects, for a fiscal year before 2012 for a category of activity not specific to a project; and (6) funds appropriated for Construction, Major Projects, for a fiscal year after 2012 for a category of activity not specific to a project. SEC. 6. MODIFICATION OF REQUIREMENTS RELATING TO CONGRESSIONAL APPROVAL OF CERTAIN MEDICAL FACILITY ACQUISITIONS. Section 8104 of title 38, United States Code, is amended-- (1) in subsection (b)-- (A) in paragraph (1)-- (i) by striking ``detailed description'' and inserting ``detailed estimate of the total costs''; (ii) by striking ``a description of the consideration'' and inserting ``a detailed report of the consideration''; and (iii) by adding at the end the following: ``Such detailed estimate shall include an identification of each of the following: ``(A) Total construction costs. ``(B) Activation costs. ``(C) Special purpose alterations (lump-sum payment) costs. ``(D) Number of personnel. ``(E) Total costs of ancillary services, equipment, and all other items.''; (B) by striking paragraphs (2) and (3) and redesignating paragraphs (4) through (8) as paragraphs (2) through (6), respectively; (C) in paragraph (2), as so redesignated, by striking ``a five-year period and a ten-year period'' and inserting ``a five-year period, a ten-year period, and a twenty-year period''; (D) in paragraph (3), as so redesignated, by inserting before the period at the end the following: ``, including information on projected changes in workload and utilization over a five-year period, a ten-year period, and a twenty-year period''; (E) in paragraph (4), as so redesignated-- (i) by striking ``Current and projected'' and inserting ``Projected''; and (ii) by inserting before the period at the end the following: ``(including and identifying both recurring and non-recurring costs (including activation costs and total costs of ancillary services, equipment and all other items)) over a five-year period, a ten-year period, and a twenty-year period''; and (F) in paragraph (6), as so redesignated-- (i) by striking ``a description of each alternative to construction of the facility that was considered.'' and inserting ``each of the following:''; and (ii) by adding at the end the following new subparagraphs: ``(A) A detailed estimate of the total costs (including total construction costs, activation costs, special purpose alterations (lump-sum payment) costs, number of personnel and total costs of ancillary services, equipment and all other items) for each alternative to construction of the facility that was considered. ``(B) A comparison of total costs to total benefits for each such alternative. ``(C) An explanation of why the preferred alternative is the most effective means to achieve the stated project goals and the most cost-effective alternative.''; and (2) in subsection (d)-- (A) by striking ``major medical facility project'' each place it appears and inserting ``major construction project''; and (B) in paragraph (2)-- (i) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``major medical facility projects'' and inserting ``major construction projects''; and (ii) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``major medical facility'' and inserting ``major construction project''. SEC. 7. LIMITATION ON AUTHORITY OF SECRETARY OF VETERANS AFFAIRS TO USE BID SAVINGS ON MAJOR CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS TO EXPAND PURPOSE OF MAJOR MEDICAL FACILITY PROJECTS. Section 8104(d)(2) of title 38, United States Code, as amended by section 6, is further amended by adding at the end the following new subparagraph: ``(C) The Secretary may not obligate an amount under subparagraph (A) to expand the purpose of a major construction project except pursuant to a provision of law enacted after the date on which the Secretary submits to the committees described in subparagraph (B) notice of the following: ``(i) The major construction project that is the source of the bid savings. ``(ii) The major construction project for which the Secretary intends to expand the purpose. ``(iii) A description of such expansion of purpose. ``(iv) The amounts the Secretary intends to obligate to expand the purpose.''. SEC. 8. NAME OF DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS TELEHEALTH CLINIC, CRAIG, COLORADO. (a) Designation.--The Department of Veterans Affairs telehealth clinic in Craig, Colorado, shall after the date of the enactment of this Act be known and designated as the ``Major William Edward Adams Department of Veterans Affairs Clinic''. (b) References.--Any reference in any law, regulation, map, document, record, or other paper of the United States to the clinic referred to in subsection (a) shall be considered to be a reference to the ``Major William Edward Adams Department of Veterans Affairs Clinic''. SEC. 9. GEORGE H. O'BRIEN, JR., DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS MEDICAL CENTER. (a) Designation.--The Department of Veterans Affairs medical center located in Big Spring, Texas, shall after the date of the enactment of this Act be known and designated as the ``George H. O'Brien, Jr., Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center''. (b) References.--Any reference in any law, regulation, map, document, record, or other paper of the United States to the Department of Veterans Affairs medical center referred to in subsection (a) shall be considered to be a reference to the ``George H. O'Brien, Jr., Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center''. SEC. 10. EXTENSION OF CERTAIN EXPIRING AUTHORITIES. (a) Recovery Audits for Certain Contracts.--Section 1703(d)(4) of title 38, United States Code, is amended by striking ``September 30, 2013'' and inserting ``September 30, 2020''. (b) Homeless Veterans Reintegration Programs.--Section 2021(e)(1)(F) of such title is amended by striking ``2011'' and inserting ``2012''. (c) Treatment and Rehabilitation for Seriously Mentally Ill and Homeless Veterans.--Section 2031(b) of such title is amended by striking ``December 31, 2011'' and inserting ``December 31, 2012''. (d) Additional Services for Seriously Mentally Ill and Homeless Veterans.--Section 2033(d) of such title is amended by striking ``December 31, 2011'' and inserting ``December 31, 2012''. (e) Housing Assistance for Homeless Veterans.--Section 2041(c) of such title is amended by striking ``December 31, 2011'' and inserting ``December 31, 2012''. (f) Advisory Committee on Homeless Veterans.--Section 2066(d) of such title is amended by striking ``December 30, 2011'' and inserting ``December 31, 2012''. (g) Authority To Transfer Real Property.--Section 8118(a)(5) of such title is amended by striking ``the date that is seven years after the date of the enactment of this section'' and inserting ``December 31, 2018''. SEC. 11. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS FOR COMPREHENSIVE SERVICE PROGRAMS FOR HOMELESS VETERANS. Section 2013 of title 38, United States Code, is amended-- (1) by striking ``subchapter'' and all that follows through the period at the end and inserting the following: ``subchapter amounts as follows:''; and (2) by adding at the end the following new paragraphs: ``(1) $150,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2007 through 2009. ``(2) $175,100,000 for fiscal year 2010. ``(3) $217,700,000 for fiscal year 2011. ``(4) $250,000,000 for fiscal year 2012. ``(5) $150,000,000 for fiscal year 2013 and each subsequent fiscal year.''. SEC. 12. REAUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS FOR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR SUPPORTIVE SERVICES FOR VERY LOW-INCOME VETERAN FAMILIES IN PERMANENT HOUSING. (a) In General.--Subsection (e) of section 2044 is amended-- (1) in paragraph (1), by adding at the end the following new subparagraph: ``(D) $100,000,000 for fiscal year 2012.''; and (2) in paragraph (3), by striking ``2011'' and inserting ``2012''. (b) Technical Amendment.--Paragraph (1) of such subsection is further amended by striking ``carry out subsection (a), (b), and (c)'' and inserting ``carry out subsections (a), (b), and (c)''. SEC. 13. EXTENSION OF GRANT PROGRAM FOR HOMELESS VETERANS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS. Section 2061(c)(1) of title 38, United States Code, is amended by striking ``2011'' and inserting ``2012''. SEC. 14. EXTENSION OF SPECIALLY ADAPTED HOUSING ASSISTANCE FOR INDIVIDUALS RESIDING TEMPORARILY IN HOUSING OWNED BY A FAMILY MEMBER. Section 2102A(e) of title 38, United States Code, is amended by striking ``2011'' and inserting ``2012''. SEC. 15. EXTENSION OF FUNDING FEES. Section 3729(b)(2) of title 38, United States Code, is amended by striking ``October 1, 2011'' each place it occurs and inserting ``November 18, 2011''. SEC. 16. NOTICE AND VERIFICATION OF THE USE OF INCOME INFORMATION FROM OTHER AGENCIES. Section 5317(g) of title 38, United States Code, is amended by striking ``September 30, 2011'' and inserting ``November 18, 2011''. SEC. 17. TERMINATION OR REDUCTION OF CERTAIN BENEFITS AND SERVICES BASED ON INCOME INFORMATION OBTAINED FROM OTHER AGENCIES. (a) Title 38.--Section 5317A(d) of title 38, United States Code, is amended by striking ``September 30, 2011'' and inserting ``November 18, 2011''. (b) Social Security Act.--Section 453(j)(11)(G) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 653(j)(11)(G)) is amended by striking ``September 30, 2011'' and inserting ``November 18, 2011''. Speaker of the House of Representatives. Vice President of the United States and President of the Senate.

Summary: (This measure has not been amended since it was passed by the House on September 20, 2011. The summary of that version is repeated here.) Veterans Health Care Facilities Capital Improvement Act of 2011 - (Sec. 2) Authorizes, within specified amounts, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out certain FY2012 major medical facility construction projects (projects) at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers in Seattle, Washington and West Los Angeles, California. (Sec. 3) Modifies authorizations for certain previously authorized projects in Fayetteville, Arkansas, the Orlando, Florida area, Palo Alto, California, San Juan, Puerto Rico, and St. Louis, Missouri. (Sec. 4) Authorizes the Secretary to carry out FY2012 major medical facility leases (leases) at specified outpatient and community-based outpatient clinics in Alabama, California, Georgia, Indiana, Missouri, New York, and Oregon. (Sec. 5) Authorizes appropriations for such projects and leases. Provides project and lease funding limitations. (Sec. 6) Directs the Secretary to include in the prospectus required to be submitted to Congress with a request for funding of a major medical facility project or lease: (1) a detailed estimate of the total costs of the medical facility including the number of personnel and itemized costs for construction, activation, special purpose alteration, ancillary services, and equipment; and (2) data concerning demographics, workload, utilization, and operating costs over a 5-, 10-, and 20-year period. Requires further, in the case of a proposed new or replacement facility, a detailed: (1) report of the consideration given to acquiring an existing facility by lease or purchase and to the sharing of health-care resources with the Department of Defense (DOD), and (2) total cost estimate and a cost-benefit comparison for each considered alternative to construction of the facility and an explanation of why the preferred alternative is the most effective means to achieve the stated project goals. (Sec. 7) Prohibits the Secretary from using bid savings on a major construction project to expand the purpose of such a project until after submitting specified information to the congressional veterans committees, including the major project that is the source of the bid savings and the major project for which the Secretary intends to expand the purpose. (Sec. 8) Designates the VA telehealth clinic in Craig, Colorado, as the "Major William Edward Adams Department of Veterans Affairs Clinic." (Sec. 9) Designates the VA medical center in Big Spring, Texas, as the "George H. O'Brien, Jr., Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center." (Sec. 10) Extends through 2012 specified authority for: (1) treatment, rehabilitation, and additional services for seriously mentally ill and homeless veterans, (2) housing assistance for homeless veterans, and (3) the Advisory Committee on Homeless Veterans. Extends through FY2012 the authority of the Secretary of Labor to conduct homeless veterans reintegration programs. Extends through 2018 the authority for transfers of real property under the Secretary's jurisdiction or control. Extends to September 30, 2020, the recovery audit program for certain fee basis and other medical services contracts concerning non-VA care and services for veterans and beneficiaries. (Sec. 11) Increases authorized amounts for the VA comprehensive service programs for FY2012. Provides a reduced amount for FY2013 and thereafter. (Sec. 12) Increases and extends through FY2012 the authorization of appropriations for the VA program of financial assistance for supportive services for very low-income veteran families residing in permanent housing. (Sec. 13) Extends through: (1) FY2012 a VA grant program for homeless veterans with special needs, and (2) the end of 2012 specially adapted housing assistance for disabled veterans residing temporarily in housing owned by a family member. (Sec. 15) Extends through November 18, 2011, VA authority to: (1) charge a loan fee for certain subsequent housing loans made to veterans, and (2) verify veterans' income information from the Secretary of the Treasury or the Commissioner of Social Security. (Sec. 17) Extends through November 18, 2011, VA authority to verify veterans' income information through the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) before terminating or reducing certain benefits and services. Makes a conforming amendment to part D (Child Support and Establishment of Paternity) of title IV of the Social Security Act authorizing the release of such information by the HHS Secretary.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Sportsmen's Bill of Rights Act''. SEC. 2. FINDINGS; POLICY. (a) Findings.--The Congress finds the following: (1) Fishing is an important and traditional recreational activity in which 36,000,000 Americans 16 years old and older participate. (2) Hunting is an important and traditional recreational activity in which 14,000,000 Americans 16 years old and older participate. (3) Survey data from a recent comprehensive 3-year study entitled ``Factors Related to Hunting and Fishing Participation in the United States'' suggest that an overwhelming majority of Americans approved of fishing and hunting. (4) Anglers and hunters have been and continue to be among the foremost supporters of sound wildlife management and conservation practices in the United States. (5) Persons who hunt or fish and organizations related to those activities provide direct assistance to wildlife managers and enforcement officers of Federal, State, and local governments. (6) Funds raised through license, permit, and stamp purchases, as well as through excise taxes on goods used by anglers and hunters, have generated more than $6,000,000,000 for wildlife research and management. (7) Fishing and hunting are essential components of effective wildlife management, in that they tend to reduce conflicts between people and wildlife and provide incentives for the conservation of wildlife and habitats and ecosystems on which wildlife depends. (8) Each State has established one or more agencies staffed by professionally trained fish and wildlife management personnel, has legal authority to manage the fish and wildlife found within the State, and carries out sound programs of fish and wildlife management. (b) Policy.--It is the policy of the United States that in performing duties under Federal law, all Federal agencies that have authority to manage a natural resource or the Federal public land and water on which a natural resource depends shall exercise the authority, consistent with section 3(e), in a manner so as to support, promote, and enhance hunting and fishing opportunities to the extent permitted under State law and regulation and in accordance with applicable Federal law. SEC. 3. TAKING OF FISH AND WILDLIFE ON FEDERAL PUBLIC LANDS. (a) In General.--Federal public land and water shall be open to access and use for fishing and hunting except-- (1) as limited by the State in which the Federal public land or water is located; or (2) as limited by the Federal agency responsible for the Federal public land or water-- (A) for reasons of national security; (B) for reasons of public safety; or (C) for reasons specifically authorized in applicable statutes. (b) Limitations on Terms of Federal Closure to Fishing or Hunting.-- (1) Limitation on duration.--Any closure of Federal public land or water to fishing or hunting may continue in effect only during the period in which the specific circumstances for which the closure is established exist. (2) Rule of construction.--Any authority of a Federal agency to close particular land or water to hunting or fishing shall not be construed as authority to protect or manage fish or wildlife. (c) Certain Federal Public Land and Water Administered by the National Park Service.--Nothing in this Act shall compel the opening to hunting or fishing of national parks or national monuments administered by the National Park Service. (d) No Priority.--This section does not require a Federal agency to give preference to fishing or hunting over other uses of Federal public land or water or land or water management priorities established in Federal law. (e) Authority of the States.-- (1) In general.--Nothing in this Act impairs the primacy of State authority in regulating the taking of fish and wildlife on land or water within the State, including Federal public land or water. (2) Federal authority.--Except as expressly provided by Act of Congress, the authority of a Federal agency regarding the taking of fish and wildlife on Federal public land or water managed by the Federal agency shall be no greater than the rights of a private owner of land or water. SEC. 4. PROTECTION OF THE INTEGRITY OF THE SPORTSMEN'S TRUST ACCOUNTS. (a) Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act.--The Act entitled ``An Act to provide that the United States shall aid the States in wildlife- restoration projects, and for other purposes'', approved September 2, 1937 (16 U.S.C. 669 et seq.; commonly known as the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act), is amended-- (1) by striking ``Secretary of Agriculture'' each place it appears and inserting ``Secretary of the Interior''; and (2) in section 4 by adding at the end the following: ``(c) The amount of funding made available to the Secretary of the Interior for expenses under this section shall not be available for use as a supplement to decreased funding for any other expense under the authority of the Secretary of the Interior.''. (b) Federal Aid in Fish Restoration Act.--Section 4 of the Act entitled ``An Act to provide that the United States shall aid the States in fish restoration and management projects, and for other purposes'', approved August 9, 1950 (16 U.S.C. 777c; commonly known as the Federal Aid in Fish Restoration Act), is amended by adding at the end the following: ``(f) The amount of funding made available to the Secretary of the Interior for expenses under this section shall not be available for use as a supplement to decreased funding for any other expense under the authority of the Secretary of the Interior.''. SEC. 5. EVALUATION OF WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT EFFECTS. (a) Statement.--No Federal agency action that may significantly diminish opportunities or access to engage in fishing or hunting on Federal public land or water shall be effective until the agency prepares a detailed statement evaluating the effect of the action on fishing and hunting. (b) Notice and Hearing.--Before taking an action described in subsection (a), a Federal agency shall-- (1) provide notice of the proposed agency action to the appropriate State agency responsible for the conduct or oversight of fish and wildlife management; and (2) conduct a public hearing in the vicinity of the proposed action. (c) Judicial Review.--An individual or entity that may be adversely affected by a loss of fishing or hunting opportunities on Federal public land or water as a result of an agency action described in subsection (a) may bring a civil action in a United States district court for review of the adequacy of the statement required in subsection (a). (d) Emergencies.--Nothing in this section precludes an agency from exercising statutory authority to close Federal public land or water in an emergency or other exigent circumstances. (e) Effect on Other Law.--Nothing in this section affects or has application to the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (16 U.S.C. 703 et seq.) or the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.). SEC. 6. CIVIL ACTIONS. (a) Intervention.--A person interested in participating in fishing or hunting shall be entitled to intervene as a matter of right in a civil action brought under any other Federal law relating to the use of any Federal public land or water in which the plaintiff seeks an order that would require the use (or nonuse) of the land or water in such a manner as to impair access to or use of the land or water for the purpose of fishing or hunting as required by this Act. (b) Consideration of Interests.--If an intervenor under subsection (a) shows that the application of another Federal law as sought by the plaintiff would be likely to impair access to or use of the Federal public land or water for the purpose of fishing or hunting as required by this Act, the court shall not grant the relief sought unless the plaintiff shows that the interest intended to be advanced by the other Federal law clearly outweighs the interest of protecting access to and use of Federal public land or water for fishing and hunting. (c) State Deemed Indispensable Party.--In any civil action brought in any United States district court under any other Federal law relating to the use of any Federal public land or water, a State is deemed an indispensable party if management by the State of fish and resident wildlife, including hunting and fishing, would be curtailed or if opportunities provided by the State for hunting and fishing would be reduced or eliminated by a grant of preliminary or final relief. SEC. 7. STANDING TO BRING A CIVIL ACTION. An individual who is licensed by a State to engage in fishing or hunting, or an organization representing the interests of such individuals, may bring a civil action in a United States district court to seek declaratory or injunctive relief regarding the implementation of any provision of this Act, including a declaration that a civil action brought by another person may significantly disrupt or eliminate opportunities for fishing or hunting and an injunction against the prosecution of the civil action. SEC. 8. DEFINITIONS. As used in this Act: (1) Hunting and fishing.--For any State, the terms ``hunting'' and ``fishing'' include all means and methods of taking fish and wildlife as authorized and regulated by the State agency responsible for the conduct or oversight of fish and wildlife management. (2) Federal public land or water.--The term ``Federal public land or water''-- (A) except as provided in subparagraph (B), means all lands and waters owned in fee by the United States and all property interests owned by the United States in land or water, including easements, that are administered by-- (i) the Secretary of the Interior through the Bureau of Land Management, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, the National Park Service, or the Bureau of Reclamation; (ii) the Secretary of Agriculture through the United States Forest Service; or (iii) the Secretary of Defense through the United States Army Corps of Engineers or pursuant to the Sikes Act (16 U.S.C. 670a et seq.); and (B) does not include any land or water, or interest in land or water, that is part of a national park or national monument, administered by the National Park Service.

Summary: Sportsmen's Bill of Rights Act - Requires Federal public land and water to be open to access and use for fishing and hunting except as limited by: (1) the State involved; or (2) the responsible Federal agency for reasons of national security, public safety, or specific authorization. Allows such land to be closed only during the period in which the reasons for such closure exist. Amends the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act to authorize the Secretary of the Interior (Secretary) to cooperate with the Secretary of the Interior of Puerto Rico (currently the Secretary of Agriculture of Puerto Rico) in wildlife-restoration projects. Prohibits funds made available to the Secretary for expenses in the administration and execution of wildlife-restoration projects under such Act and the Federal Aid in Fish Restoration Act from being used as a supplement to decreased funding for any other expense of the Secretary. Prohibits a Federal agency's action that may significantly diminish opportunities or access to engage in fishing or hunting on Federal public land or water until the agency prepares a detailed statement evaluating the action's effect on fishing and hunting. Provides for judicial review of such action. Provides for intervention by an interested person in a civil action relating to the use of Federal public land or water for fishing or hunting. Provides standing to seek declaratory or injunctive relief regarding the implementation of this Act for an individual licensed to engage in fishing or hunting, or an organization representing the interests of such individuals.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS. (a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``VA Major Construction Authorization and Expiring Authorities Extension Act of 2012''. (b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this Act is as follows: Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents. Sec. 2. References to title 38, United States Code. Sec. 3. Scoring of budgetary effects. TITLE I--CONSTRUCTION AUTHORIZATIONS Sec. 101. Authorization of fiscal year 2013 major medical facility projects. Sec. 102. Authorization of major medical facility project in Miami, Florida. Sec. 103. Authorization of appropriations. TITLE II--EXTENSIONS OF CERTAIN EXPIRING AUTHORITIES Sec. 201. Extension of authority to calculate the net value of real property securing a defaulted loan for purposes of liquidation. Sec. 202. Extension of authority for operation of the Department of Veterans Affairs regional office in Manila, the Republic of the Philippines. Sec. 203. Extension of authority to provide treatment, rehabilitation, and certain other services for seriously mentally ill and homeless veterans. Sec. 204. Extension of authority to provide expanded services to homeless veterans. Sec. 205. Extension of authority to provide housing assistance for homeless veterans. Sec. 206. Extension of authority for the Advisory Committee on Homeless Veterans. Sec. 207. Extension of authority for the performance of medical disability examinations by contract physicians. SEC. 2. REFERENCES TO TITLE 38, UNITED STATES CODE. 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 title 38, United States Code. SEC. 3. SCORING OF BUDGETARY EFFECTS. The budgetary effects of this Act, for the purpose of complying with the Statutory Pay-As-You-Go Act of 2010, shall be determined by reference to the latest statement titled ``Budgetary Effects of PAYGO Legislation'' for this Act, submitted for printing in the Congressional Record by the Chairman of the House Budget Committee, provided that such statement has been submitted prior to the vote on passage. TITLE I--CONSTRUCTION AUTHORIZATIONS SEC. 101. AUTHORIZATION OF FISCAL YEAR 2013 MAJOR MEDICAL FACILITY PROJECTS. The Secretary of Veterans Affairs may carry out the following major medical facility projects in fiscal year 2013 in the amount specified for each project: (1) Construction of a mental health building at the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Seattle, Washington, in an amount not to exceed $222,000,000. (2) Construction of a spinal cord injury center at the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, in an amount not to exceed $155,200,000. SEC. 102. AUTHORIZATION OF MAJOR MEDICAL FACILITY PROJECT IN MIAMI, FLORIDA. (a) In General.--The Secretary of Veterans Affairs may carry out the major medical facility project described in subsection (b) in an amount not to exceed a total of $41,000,000. (b) Project Described.--The major medical facility project described in this subsection is the renovation of the surgical suite and operating rooms at the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, Florida. SEC. 103. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS. (a) Authorization of Appropriations for Construction.--There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for fiscal year 2013 or the year in which funds are appropriated for the Construction, Major Projects, account $377,200,000 for the projects authorized in section 101. (b) Limitation.--In addition to any limitations under section 8104 of title 38, United States Code, or other provision of law that apply to the projects authorized in section 101 and 102, such projects may only be carried out using-- (1) funds appropriated for fiscal year 2013 pursuant to the authorization of appropriations in subsection (a) of this section; (2) funds available for Construction, Major Projects, for a fiscal year before fiscal year 2013 that remain available for obligation; (3) funds available for Construction, Major Projects, for a fiscal year after fiscal year 2013 that remain available for obligation; (4) funds appropriated for Construction, Major Projects, for fiscal year 2013 for a category of activity not specific to a project; (5) funds appropriated for Construction, Major Projects, for a fiscal year before 2013 for a category of activity not specific to a project; and (6) funds appropriated for Construction, Major Projects, for a fiscal year after 2013 for a category of activity not specific to a project. TITLE II--EXTENSIONS OF CERTAIN EXPIRING AUTHORITIES SEC. 201. EXTENSION OF AUTHORITY TO CALCULATE THE NET VALUE OF REAL PROPERTY SECURING A DEFAULTED LOAN FOR PURPOSES OF LIQUIDATION. Section 3732(c)(11) is amended by striking ``October 1, 2012'' and inserting ``October 1, 2013''. SEC. 202. EXTENSION OF AUTHORITY FOR OPERATION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS REGIONAL OFFICE IN MANILA, THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES. Section 315(b) is amended by striking ``December 31, 2012'' and inserting ``December 31, 2013''. Such section 315 shall be carried out as amended by this section notwithstanding the date described in section 151 of the Continuing Appropriations Resolution, 2013. SEC. 203. EXTENSION OF AUTHORITY TO PROVIDE TREATMENT, REHABILITATION, AND CERTAIN OTHER SERVICES FOR SERIOUSLY MENTALLY ILL AND HOMELESS VETERANS. Section 2031(b) is amended by striking ``December 31, 2012'' and inserting ``December 31, 2013''. SEC. 204. EXTENSION OF AUTHORITY TO PROVIDE EXPANDED SERVICES TO HOMELESS VETERANS. Section 2033(d) is amended by striking ``December 31, 2012'' and inserting ``December 31, 2013''. SEC. 205. EXTENSION OF AUTHORITY TO PROVIDE HOUSING ASSISTANCE FOR HOMELESS VETERANS. Section 2041(c) is amended by striking ``December 31, 2012'' and inserting ``December 31, 2013''. SEC. 206. EXTENSION OF AUTHORITY FOR THE ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON HOMELESS VETERANS. Section 2066(d) is amended by striking ``December 31, 2012'' and inserting ``December 31, 2013''. SEC. 207. EXTENSION OF AUTHORITY FOR THE PERFORMANCE OF MEDICAL DISABILITY EXAMINATIONS BY CONTRACT PHYSICIANS. Section 704(c) of the Veterans Benefits Act of 2003 (38 U.S.C. 5101 note) is amended by striking ``December 31, 2012'' and inserting ``December 31, 2013''. Speaker of the House of Representatives. Vice President of the United States and President of the Senate.

Summary: (This measure has not been amended since it was passed by the House on September 19, 2012. The summary of that version is repeated here.) VA Major Construction Authorization and Expiring Authorities Extension Act of 2012 - Title I: Construction Authorizations - Authorizes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) to carry out major medical facility projects (projects) in FY2013 at VA medical centers in: (1) Seattle, Washington; (2) Dallas, Texas; and (3) Miami, Florida. Authorizes appropriations for such projects. Provides project funding limitations. Title II: Extensions of Certain Expiring Authorities - Extends through FY2013 VA default procedures with respect to guaranteed loans to veterans. Extends through 2013 VA authority: (1) to operate a regional office in the Republic of the Philippines; (2) to provide treatment, rehabilitation, and related services for seriously mentally ill and homeless veterans; (3) to provide expanded services and housing assistance to homeless veterans; (4) for the Advisory Committee on Homeless Veterans; and (5) to use contract physicians to perform VA medical disability examinations.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Selected Reserve Home Loan Equity Act''. SEC. 2. PERMANENT AUTHORITY FOR HOUSING LOANS FOR MEMBERS OF THE SELECTED RESERVE. Section 3702(a)(2)(E) of title 38, United States Code, is amended by striking ``and ending on September 30, 2009,''. SEC. 3. UNIFORM HOME LOAN GUARANTY FEES FOR QUALIFYING MEMBERS OF THE SELECTED RESERVE AND ACTIVE DUTY VETERANS. (a) In General.--Paragraph (2) of section 3729(b) of title 38, United States Code, is amended to read as follows: ``(2) The loan fee table referred to in paragraph (1) is as follows: ``LOAN FEE TABLE ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Type of loan Veteran Other obligor ------------------------------------------------------------------------ (A)(i) Initial loan described in 2.00 NA section 3710(a) to purchase or construct a dwelling with 0-down, or any other initial loan described in section 3710(a) other than with 5-down or 10-down (closed before October 1, 2011)................... ------------------------------------------------------------------------ (A)(ii) Initial loan described in 1.25 NA section 3710(a) to purchase or construct a dwelling with 0-down, or any other initial loan described in section 3710(a) other than with 5-down or 10-down (closed on or after October 1, 2011)............. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ (B)(i) Subsequent loan described in 3.30 NA section 3710(a) to purchase or construct a dwelling with 0-down, or any other subsequent loan described in section 3710(a) (closed before October 1, 2011).... ------------------------------------------------------------------------ (B)(ii) Subsequent loan described in 2.15 NA section 3710(a) to purchase or construct a dwelling with 0-down, or any other subsequent loan described in section 3710(a) (closed on or after October 1, 2011 and before October 1, 2013)........ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ (B)(iii) Subsequent loan described 1.25 NA in section 3710(a) to purchase or construct a dwelling with 0-down, or any other subsequent loan described in section 3710(a) (closed on or after October 1, 2013).............................. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ (C)(i) Loan described in section 1.50 NA 3710(a) to purchase or construct a dwelling with 5-down (closed before October 1, 2011)................... ------------------------------------------------------------------------ (C)(ii) Loan described in section 0.75 NA 3710(a) to purchase or construct a dwelling with 5-down (closed on or after October 1, 2011)............. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ (D)(i) Initial loan described in 1.25 NA section 3710(a) to purchase or construct a dwelling with 10-down (closed before October 1, 2011).... ------------------------------------------------------------------------ (D)(ii) Initial loan described in 0.50 NA section 3710(a) to purchase or construct a dwelling with 10-down (closed on or after October 1, 2011).............................. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ (E) Interest rate reduction 0.50 NA refinancing loan................... ------------------------------------------------------------------------ (F) Direct loan under section 3711.. 1.00 NA ------------------------------------------------------------------------ (G) Manufactured home loan under 1.00 NA section 3712 (other than an interest rate reduction refinancing loan).............................. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ (H) Loan to Native American veteran 1.25 NA under section 3762 (other than an interest rate reduction refinancing loan).............................. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ (I) Loan assumption under section 0.50 0.50 3714............................... ------------------------------------------------------------------------ (J) Loan under section 3733(a)...... 2.25 2.25''. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ (b) Conforming Amendments.--(1) Paragraph (4)(A) of such section is amended to read as follows: ``(A) The term `veteran' means any veteran eligible for the benefits of this chapter.''. (2) Paragraph (4) of such section is amended by striking subparagraph (B) and redesignating subparagraphs (C), (D), (E), (F), (G), (H), and (I) as subparagraphs (B), (C), (D), (E), (F), (G), and (H), respectively. Passed the House of Representatives May 21, 2003. Attest: JEFF TRANDAHL, Clerk.

Summary: Selected Reserve Home Loan Equity Act - Makes permanent (currently expires at the end of FY 2009) the authority for individuals who complete six years of service in the Selected Reserve to receive home loans guaranteed, insured, or made through the Department of Veterans Affairs. Prescribes uniform fees for members of the Selected Reserve and veterans eligible for such home loans through qualifying active duty service. (Currently, separate fees apply to active duty veterans and reservists.)


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Native American $1 Coin Act''. SEC. 2. NATIVE AMERICAN $1 COIN PROGRAM. (a) In General.--Section 5112 of title 31, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: ``(r) Redesign and Issuance of Circulating $1 Coins Honoring Native Americans and the Important Contributions Made by Indian Tribes and Individual Native Americans in United States History.-- ``(1) Redesign beginning in 2009.--Effective beginning January 1, 2009, notwithstanding subsection (d), in addition to the coins to be issued pursuant to subsection (n), and in accordance with this subsection, the Secretary shall mint and issue $1 coins that-- ``(A) have as the designs on the obverse the so- called `Sakakawea design'; and ``(B) have a design on the reverse selected in accordance with paragraph (2)(A), subject to paragraph (3)(A). ``(2) Design requirements.--The $1 coins issued in accordance with paragraph (1) shall meet the following design requirements: ``(A) Coin reverse.--The design on the reverse shall bear-- ``(i) images celebrating the important contributions made by Indian tribes and individual Native Americans to the development of the United States and the history of the United States; ``(ii) the inscription `$1' ; and ``(iii) the inscription `United States of America'. ``(B) Coin obverse.--The design on the obverse shall-- ``(i) be chosen by the Secretary, after consultation with the Commission of Fine Arts and review by the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee; and ``(ii) contain the so-called `Sakakawea design' and the inscription `Liberty'. ``(C) Edge-incused inscriptions.-- ``(i) In general.--The inscription of the year of minting and issuance of the coin and the inscriptions `E Pluribus Unum' and `In God We Trust' shall be edge-incused into the coin. ``(ii) Preservation of distinctive edge.-- The edge-incusing of the inscriptions under clause (i) on coins issued under this subsection shall be done in a manner that preserves the distinctive edge of the coin so that the denomination of the coin is readily discernible, including by individuals who are blind or visually impaired. ``(D) Reverse design selection.--The designs selected for the reverse of the coins described under this subsection-- ``(i) shall be chosen by the Secretary after consultation with the Committee on Indian Affairs of the Senate, the Congressional Native American Caucus of the House of Representatives, the Commission of Fine Arts, and the National Congress of American Indians; ``(ii) shall be reviewed by the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee; ``(iii) may depict individuals and events such as-- ``(I) the creation of Cherokee written language; ``(II) the Iroquois Confederacy; ``(III) Wampanoag Chief Massasoit; ``(IV) the `Pueblo Revolt'; ``(V) Olympian Jim Thorpe; ``(VI) Ely S. Parker, a general on the staff of General Ulysses S. Grant and later head of the Bureau of Indian Affairs; and ``(VII) code talkers who served the United States Armed Forces during World War I and World War II; and ``(iv) in the case of a design depicting the contribution of an individual Native American to the development of the United States and the history of the United States, shall not depict the individual in a size such that the coin could be considered to be a `2- headed' coin. ``(3) Issuance of coins commemorating 1 native american event during each year.-- ``(A) In general.--Each design for the reverse of the $1 coins issued during each year shall be emblematic of 1 important Native American or Native American contribution each year. ``(B) Issuance period.--Each $1 coin minted with a design on the reverse in accordance with this subsection for any year shall be issued during the 1- year period beginning on January 1 of that year and shall be available throughout the entire 1-year period. ``(C) Order of issuance of designs.--Each coin issued under this subsection commemorating Native Americans and their contributions-- ``(i) shall be issued, to the maximum extent practicable, in the chronological order in which the Native Americans lived or the events occurred, until the termination of the coin program described in subsection (n); and ``(ii) thereafter shall be issued in any order determined to be appropriate by the Secretary, after consultation with the Committee on Indian Affairs of the Senate, the Congressional Native American Caucus of the House of Representatives, and the National Congress of American Indians. ``(4) Issuance of numismatic coins.--The Secretary may mint and issue such number of $1 coins of each design selected under this subsection in uncirculated and proof qualities as the Secretary determines to be appropriate. ``(5) Quantity.--The number of $1 coins minted and issued in a year with the design in accordance with this subsection shall be not less than 20 percent of the total number of $1 coins minted and issued in such year under this subsection and subsection (n).''. (b) Marketing Program.-- (1) In general.--The Secretary of the Treasury shall carry out a cost-effective, continuing campaign to encourage commercial enterprises to accept and dispense $1 coins that have as designs on the obverse the so-called ``Sakakawea design''. (2) Report.--The Secretary of the Treasury shall submit to Congress an annual report on the success of the efforts described in paragraph (1). SEC. 3. TECHNICAL AND CONFORMING AMENDMENTS. (a) Presidential $1 Coin Program.--Section 5112(n) of title 31, United States Code, is amended-- (1) in paragraph (1)-- (A) by striking the paragraph designation and heading and all that follows through ``Notwithstanding subsection (d)'' and inserting the following: ``(1) Redesign beginning in 2007.--Notwithstanding subsection (d)''; (B) by striking subparagraph (B); and (C) by redesignating clauses (i) and (ii) as subparagraphs (A) and (B), respectively, and indenting the subparagraphs appropriately; and (2) by striking ``Sacagawea-design'' each place it appears and inserting ``Sakakawea-design''. (b) Removal of Barriers to Circulation of $1 Coin.--Section 5112(p) of title 31, United States Code, is amended in paragraphs (3)(C) and (5) by striking ``Sacagawea-design'' each place it appears and inserting ``Sakakawea-design''.

Summary: Native American $1 Coin Act - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to mint and issue $1 coins in commemoration of Native Americans and the important contributions made by Indian tribes and individual Native Americans to the development of the United States and the history of the United States. Requires the issuance of such coins during each year to be emblematic of one important Native American or Native American contribution.


SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ``Stop Errors in Credit Use and Reporting Act'' or the ``SECURE Act''. SEC. 2. LEGAL RECOURSE FOR CONSUMERS. (a) Injunctive Relief.--The Fair Credit Reporting Act (15 U.S.C. 1681 et seq.) is amended-- (1) in section 616-- (A) in subsection (a), by striking ``(a) In General.--'' and inserting ``(a) Damages.--''; (B) by redesignating subsections (c) and (d) as subsections (d) and (e), respectively; and (C) by inserting after subsection (b) the following: ``(c) Injunctive Relief.--In addition to any other remedy set forth in this section, a court may award injunctive relief to require compliance with the requirements imposed under this title with respect to any consumer. In the event of any successful action for injunctive relief under this subsection, the court may award to the prevailing party costs and reasonable attorney fees (as determined by the court) incurred during the action by such party.''; and (2) in section 617-- (A) in subsection (a), by striking ``(a) In General.--'' and inserting ``(a) Damages.--''; (B) by redesignating subsection (b) as subsection (c); and (C) by inserting after subsection (a) the following: ``(b) Injunctive Relief.--In addition to any other remedy set forth in this section, a court may award injunctive relief to require compliance with the requirements imposed under this title with respect to any consumer. In the event of any successful action for injunctive relief under this subsection, the court may award to the prevailing party costs and reasonable attorney fees (as determined by the court) incurred during the action by such party.''. (b) Enforcement by Federal Trade Commission.--Section 621(a)(2)(A) of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (15 U.S.C. 1681s(a)(2)(A)) is amended-- (1) by striking ``(A) Knowing violations.--'' and inserting ``(A) Negligent, willful, or knowing violations.--''; and (2) by inserting ``negligent, willful, or'' before ``knowing''. SEC. 3. INCREASED REQUIREMENTS FOR CONSUMER REPORTING AGENCIES AND FURNISHERS OF INFORMATION. (a) Provision and Consideration of Documentation Provided by Consumers.--The Fair Credit Reporting Act (15 U.S.C. 1681 et seq.) is amended-- (1) in section 611-- (A) in subsection (a)-- (i) in paragraph (2)-- (I) in subparagraph (A), by inserting ``, including all documentation provided by the consumer'' after ``received from the consumer or reseller''; and (II) in subparagraph (B), by inserting ``, including all documentation provided by the consumer,'' after ``from the consumer or reseller''; and (ii) in paragraph (4), by inserting ``, including all documentation,'' after ``relevant information''; and (B) in subsection (f)(2)(B)(ii), by inserting ``, including all documentation,'' after ``relevant information''; and (2) in section 623-- (A) in subsection (a)(8)(E), by striking clause (ii) and inserting the following: ``(ii) review and consider all relevant information, including all documentation, provided by the consumer with the notice;''; and (B) in subsection (b)(1), by striking subparagraph (B) and inserting the following: ``(B) review and consider all relevant information, including all documentation, provided by the consumer reporting agency pursuant to section 611(a)(2);''. (b) Gathering and Reporting of Information Relating to Consumer Disputes.--Section 611 of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (15 U.S.C. 1681 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following: ``(g) Gathering and Reporting of Information Relating to Consumer Disputes.-- ``(1) Reports required.--The Bureau shall provide reports regarding the disputes described in subsection (a)(1) received by consumer reporting agencies in such intervals and to such parties as the Bureau deems appropriate. ``(2) Gathering of information.--The Bureau shall prescribe rules for the gathering of information relating to disputes described in subsection (a)(1) received by consumer reporting agencies to be used in generating the reports under paragraph (1), including rules establishing-- ``(A) the type and format of information that shall be received by the Bureau from each consumer reporting agency; and ``(B) the frequency of receipt of the information from consumer reporting agencies.''. (c) Accuracy Compliance Procedures.--Section 607 of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (15 U.S.C. 1681e) is amended by striking subsection (b) and inserting the following: ``(b) Accuracy of Report.-- ``(1) In general.--A consumer reporting agency shall follow reasonable procedures when preparing a consumer report to assure maximum possible accuracy of the information concerning the individual to whom the consumer report relates. ``(2) Bureau rule to assure maximum possible accuracy.-- ``(A) Proposed rule.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of the Stop Errors in Credit Use and Reporting Act, the Bureau shall issue a proposed rule establishing the procedures that a consumer reporting agency must follow to assure maximum possible accuracy of all consumer reports furnished by the agency in compliance with this subsection. ``(B) Considerations.--When formulating the rule required under subparagraph (A), the Bureau shall consider if requiring the matching of the following information would improve the accuracy of consumer reports: ``(i) The first name and last name of a consumer. ``(ii) The date of birth of a consumer. ``(iii) All 9 digits of the social security number of a consumer. ``(iv) Any other information that the Bureau determines would aid in assuring maximum possible accuracy of all consumer reports furnished by consumer reporting agencies in compliance with this subsection.''. (d) Responsibilities of Furnishers of Information to Consumer Reporting Agencies.--Section 623(a)(8)(F)(i)(II) of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (15 U.S.C. 1681s-2(a)(8)(F)(i)(II)) is amended by inserting ,`` and does not include any new or additional information that would be relevant to a reinvestigation'' before the period. (e) Disclosures to Consumers.--Section 609 of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (15 U.S.C. 1681g) is amended-- (1) in subsection (a)(3)(B), by striking ``; and'' and all that follows through the end of subparagraph (B) and inserting the following: ``(ii) the address and telephone number of the person; and ``(iii) the permissible purpose of the person for obtaining the consumer report, including the specific type of credit product that is extended, reviewed, or collected as described in section 604(a)(3)(A).''; (2) in subsection (f)-- (A) by amending paragraph (7)(A) to read as follows: ``(A) supply the consumer with a credit score that-- ``(i) is derived from a credit scoring model that is widely distributed to users by the consumer reporting agency for the purpose of any extension of credit or other transaction designated by the consumer who is requesting the credit score; or ``(ii) is widely distributed to lenders of common consumer loan products and predicts the future credit behavior of the consumer; and''; and (B) in paragraph (8), by inserting ``, except that a credit score shall be provided free of charge to the consumer if requested in connection with a free annual consumer report described in section 612(a)'' before the period; and (3) in subsection (g)(1)-- (A) by striking subparagraph (C); and (B) by redesignating subparagraphs (D) though (G) as subparagraphs (C) through (F), respectively. (f) Notification Requirements.-- (1) Adverse information notification.--The Fair Credit Reporting Act (15 U.S.C. 1681 et seq.) is amended-- (A) in section 612, by striking subsection (b) and inserting the following: ``(b) Free Disclosure After Notice of Adverse Action or Offer of Credit on Materially Less Favorable Terms.-- ``(1) In general.--Not later than 14 days after the date on which a consumer reporting agency receives a notification under subsection (a)(2) or (h)(6) of section 615, or from a debt collection agency affiliated with the consumer reporting agency, the consumer reporting agency shall make, without charge to the consumer, all disclosures required in accordance with the rules prescribed by the Bureau under section 609(h). ``(2) Transition period.--After the effective date of the provisions of the Stop Errors in Credit Use and Reporting Act and before the Bureau has finalized the rule required under section 609(h), a consumer reporting agency that is required to make disclosures under this subsection shall provide to the consumer a copy of the current credit report on the consumer and any other disclosures required under this Act or the Stop Errors in Credit Use and Reporting Act, without charge to the consumer.''; and (B) in section 615(a)-- (i) by redesignating paragraphs (2), (3) and (4) as paragraphs (3), (4), and (5) respectively; (ii) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following: ``(2) direct the consumer reporting agency that provided the consumer report used in the decision to take the adverse action to provide the consumer with the disclosures described in section 612(b);''; and (iii) in paragraph (5), as redesignated by this paragraph-- (I) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking ``of the consumer's right''; (II) by striking subparagraph (A) and inserting the following: ``(A) that the consumer will receive a copy of the consumer report on the consumer, free of charge, from the consumer reporting agency that furnished the consumer report; and''; and (III) in subparagraph (B), by inserting ``of the right of the consumer'' before ``to dispute''. (2) Notification in cases of less favorable terms.--Section 615(h) of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (15 U.S.C. 1681m(h)) is amended-- (A) in paragraph (1), by striking ``paragraph (6)'' and inserting ``paragraph (7)''; (B) in paragraph (2), by striking ``paragraph (6)'' and inserting ``paragraph (7)''; (C) in subparagraph (5)(C), by striking ``may obtain'' and inserting ``will receive'' (D) by redesignating paragraphs (6), (7), and (8) as paragraphs (7), (8), and (9), respectively; and (E) by inserting after paragraph (5) the following: ``(6) Reports provided to consumers.--A person who uses a consumer report as described in paragraph (1) shall notify and direct the consumer reporting agency that provided the consumer report to provide the consumer with the disclosures described in section 612(b).''. (3) Notification of subsequent submissions of negative information.--Section 623(a)(7)(A)(ii) of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (15 U.S.C. 1681s-2(a)(7)(A)(ii)) by striking ``or customer'' and inserting ``or'' before ``account''. (4) Bureau rule defining certain disclosure requirements.-- Section 609 of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (15 U.S.C. 1681g) is amended by adding at the end the following: ``(h) Bureau Rule Defining Certain Disclosure Requirements.-- ``(1) Proposed rule.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of the Stop Errors in Credit Use and Reporting Act, the Bureau shall publish a proposed rule to implement the disclosure requirements described in section 612(b). ``(2) Considerations.--In formulating the rule required under paragraph (1), the Bureau shall consider-- ``(A) what information would enable consumers to determine the reasons for which a person took adverse action or offered credit on materially less favorable terms and to verify the accuracy of such information; and ``(B) how to provide the information described in subparagraph (A) while protecting consumer privacy, including procedures to ensure that such information is provided to the consumer at the appropriate address.''. SEC. 4. REGULATORY REFORM. Section 621 of the Federal Credit Reporting Act (15 U.S.C. 1681s) is amended by adding at the end the following: ``(h) Consumer Reporting Agency Registry.-- ``(1) Establishment of registry.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of the Stop Errors in Credit Use and Reporting Act, the Bureau shall establish 3 publicly available registries of consumer reporting agencies, including-- ``(A) a registry of nationwide consumer reporting agencies as described in section 603(p); ``(B) a registry of nationwide specialty consumer reporting agencies as defined in section 603(x); and ``(C) a registry of all other consumer reporting agencies included under subsection 603(f) that are not included under section 603(p) or 603(x). ``(2) Registration requirement.--All consumer reporting agencies as defined in section 603(f) must register with one of the registries established by the Bureau under this subsection in a timeframe established by the Bureau.''. SEC. 5. STUDY OF A PUBLIC CREDIT REPORTING SYSTEM. (a) Study.--Not later than 6 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall undertake a study-- (1) of credit systems in the international credit system with government-administered consumer credit reporting systems; (2) of available information regarding the accuracy of existing government-administered consumer credit reporting systems; (3) to evaluate the feasibility of a national, government- administered consumer credit reporting system; (4) of any consumer benefits that might reasonably be expected to result from a government-administered consumer credit report; and (5) of any costs that might result from a government- administered consumer credit reporting system in the United States. (b) Publication of Findings.--Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall publish the findings under subsection (a). SEC. 6. EFFECTIVE DATE. Except as otherwise provided in this Act and the amendments made by this Act, the provisions of this Act and the amendments made by this Act shall take effect 6 months after the date of enactment of this Act.

Summary: Stop Errors in Credit Use and Reporting Act or the SECURE Act - Amends the Fair Credit Reporting Act, with respect to civil liability for either willful or negligent noncompliance by a consumer reporting agency with respect to consumer credit protection requirements, to authorize a court to award: (1) injunctive relief to require compliance with such Act, and (2) costs and reasonable attorney fees to the prevailing party in any successful action for injunctive relief. Requires a consumer reporting agency to include, in its mandatory notification to a furnisher of disputed information in a consumer's file, all documentation provided by the consumer. Requires the furnisher of disputed information, upon notification of a dispute, to review and consider all documentation provided by the consumer. Directs the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) to: (1) prepare, and deliver to appropriate parties, reports concerning disputed information received by consumer reporting agencies; and (2) prescribe rules for the gathering of information relating to such disputes. Directs the CFPB to establish mandatory procedures for a consumer reporting agency to follow to assure maximum possible accuracy of all consumer reports. Requires a consumer reporting agency to give a consumer a credit score free of charge if one is requested in connection with a free annual consumer report. Requires a consumer reporting agency to provide free disclosures, even without consumer request, to any consumer who has received either a notice of adverse action or an offer of credit on materially less favorable terms. (Present law requires such disclosure only if the consumer so requests). Directs the CFPB to establish three publicly available registries of consumer reporting agencies, including registries of: (1) nationwide consumer reporting agencies; and (2) nationwide specialty consumer reporting agencies. Directs the Comptroller General (GAO) to study: (1) credit systems in the international credit system with government-administered consumer credit reporting systems; and (2) the feasibility of a national, U.S. government-administered consumer credit reporting system.