Suspensions (42 bills)

H.R. 1344
Lower Farmington River and Salmon Brook Wild and Scenic River Study Act

Floor Situation

The House is scheduled to consider H.R. 1344, under suspension of the rules, on Monday, September 25, 2006.  The bill is debatable for 40 minutes, may not be amended, and requires a two-thirds majority vote for passage.

Summary

H.R. 1344 amends the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act to designate a specified segment of the lower Farmington River and Salmon Brook in Connecticut for study for potential addition to the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System.

Legislative History

H.R. 1344 was introduced by Rep. Johnson (CT) on March 16, 2005. The bill was referred to the Resources Committee but was not considered.

For additional information or questions, please contact Rep. Johnson's office at 5-4476.

H.R. 3961
To Authorize the National Park Service to Pay for Services Rendered by Subcontractors under a General Services Administration Indefinite Deliver/Indefinite Quantity Contract Issued for Work to be Completed at the Grand Canyon National Park 

Floor Situation

The House is scheduled to consider H.R. 3961, under suspension of the rules, on Monday, September 25, 2006.  The bill is debatable for 40 minutes, may not be amended, and requires a two-thirds majority vote for passage.

Summary

H.R. 3961 authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to use a specified amount from entrance fees collected at the Grand Canyon National Park to pay subcontractors of Pacific General, Inc., for work performed at the Park between fiscal years 2002 and 2003 under a General Services Administration (GSA) indefinite deliver/indefinite quantity contract.

Legislative History

H.R. 3961 was introduced by Rep. Renzi (AZ) on September 29, 2005. The bill was ordered to be reported by unanimous consent on July 19, 2006. House Report 109-628 was filed on September 6, 2006.

For additional information or questions, please contact the Resources Committee at 5-2761.

H.R. 4382
Southern Nevada Readiness Center Act  

Floor Situation

The House is scheduled to consider H.R. 4382, under suspension of the rules, on Monday, September 25, 2006.  The bill is debatable for 40 minutes, may not be amended, and requires a two-thirds majority vote for passage.

Summary

H.R. 4382 permits Clark County, Nevada, to convey between 35 and 50 acres of land in Clark County to the Nevada Division of State Lands for use by the Nevada National Guard.

Legislative History

H.R. 4382 was introduced by Rep. Porter (NV) on November 17, 2005. The bill was ordered to be reported by unanimous consent on July 19, 2006. House Report 109-629 was filed on September 6, 2006.

For additional information or questions, please contact the Resources Committee at 5-2761.

H.R. 4588
Water Resources Research Act Amendments of 2006   

Floor Situation

The House is scheduled to consider H.R. 4588, under suspension of the rules, on Monday, September 25, 2006.  The bill is debatable for 40 minutes, may not be amended, and requires a two-thirds majority vote for passage.

Summary

H.R. 4588 amends the Water Resources Research Act of 1984 to require each water resources research and technology institute to plan, conduct, or otherwise arrange for competent applied and peer reviewed research that fosters specified goals, including creating new water supplies and solving water supply problems.

The bill directs the Secretary to evaluate each institute at least once every three (currently, five) years to determine, among other things, the effectiveness of its water resources research.

The measure reauthorizes appropriations for FY2006-FY2010, including additional appropriations for research focused on interstate water problems.

H.R. 4588 requires the Secretary, as part of the annual budget submission to Congress, to provide a crosscut budget detailing expenditures on institute activities and a report on the annual increase in water supplies, annual water yields, advances in water infrastructure improvements, and the level of applied research.

The bill limits amounts utilized for administrative costs to 5% (currently, 15%) of appropriated sums.

Legislative History

H.R. 4588 was introduced by Rep. Doolittle (CA) on December 16, 2005. The bill was ordered to be reported, in the nature of a substitute, by unanimous consent, on July 19, 2006. House Report 109-630 was filed on September 6, 2006.

For additional information or questions, please contact the Resources Committee at 5-2761.

H.R. 5079
North Unit Irrigation District Act of 2006    

Floor Situation

The House is scheduled to consider H.R. 5079, under suspension of the rules, on Monday, September 25, 2006.  The bill is debatable for 40 minutes, may not be amended, and requires a two-thirds majority vote for passage.

Summary

H.R. 5079 modifies a repayment contract between the Secretary of the Interior and the North Unit Irrigation District, Oregon, to permit the District to engage in, or take advantage of, conserved water projects authorized by Oregon law.

The bill authorizes the Secretary to renegotiate in the future such contract terms as the District directors determine to be necessary, only upon the written request of the District directors and the consent of the Commissioner of Reclamation.

Legislative History

H.R. 5079 was introduced by Rep. Walden (OR) on April 4, 2006. The bill was ordered to be reported, in the nature of a substitute, as amended, by unanimous consent, on June 21, 2006. House Report 109-636 was filed on September 6, 2006.

For additional information or questions, please contact the Resources Committee at 5-2761.

H.R. 383
Ice Age Floods National Geologic Trail Designation Act of 2005    

Floor Situation

The House is scheduled to consider H.R. 383, under suspension of the rules, on Monday, September 25, 2006.  The bill is debatable for 40 minutes, may not be amended, and requires a two-thirds majority vote for passage.

Summary

H.R. 383 designates the Ice Age Floods National Geologic Trail, a trail from Missoula, Montana to the Pacific Ocean, to provide for the public appreciation, understanding, and enjoyment of the nationally significant natural and cultural features of the Ice Age Floods, and to promote efforts to interpret and educate along the pathways of the floods.

The bill requires the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Director of the National Park Service, to administer the Trail. Allows the Secretary to establish and operate a Trail management office within the vicinity of the Trail. Requires the Secretary to establish and maintain a trail advisory committee to assist the Trail manager and staff with the operation of the Trail.

The measure requires the Secretary to prepare a Cooperative Management and Interpretation Plan for the Trail to: (1) describe strategies for the coordinated development of the Trail; (2) identify potential partnering opportunities to develop interpretative facilities and educational programs; (3) confirm and expand upon the inventory of floods' features contained in a specified National Park Service study; and (4) review and modify the map of the Trail.

H.R. 383 allows the Secretary to acquire not more than 25 acres of land for public information and administrative purposes to facilitate the geographic diversity of the Trail.

Legislative History

H.R. 383 was introduced by Rep. Hastings (WA) on January 26, 2005. The bill was ordered to be reported, in the nature of a substitute, as amended, by unanimous consent, on July 19, 2006. House Report 109-619 was filed on September 6, 2006.

For additional information or questions, please contact the Resources Committee at 5-2761.

H.R. 1515
Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve Boundary Adjustment Act of 2005     

Floor Situation

The House is scheduled to consider H.R. 1515, under suspension of the rules, on Monday, September 25, 2006.  The bill is debatable for 40 minutes, may not be amended, and requires a two-thirds majority vote for passage.

Summary

H.R. 1515 amends the National Parks and Recreation Act of 1978 to: (1) adjust the boundary of the Barataria Preserve Unit of Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve in Louisiana by increasing the acreage limitation; and (2) authorize the Secretary of the Interior to acquire any such additional land, water, and interests in land and water by donation, purchase, transfer from any other Federal agency, or exchange.

The bill requires, with respect to the Bayou aux Carpes Addition and the CIT Tract Addition, any federal land acquired in such Additions to be transferred without consideration to the administrative jurisdiction of the National Park Service. The measure permits the acquisition of any private land in those Additions only with the owner's consent.

H.R. 1515 subjects any Federal land in the CIT Tract Addition to any easements that have been agreed to by the Secretary and the Secretary of the Army.

The measure modifies and/or eliminates certain provisions related to the acquisition of property within the Unit.

The bill permits hunting, fishing, and trapping within the Unit. (The bill currently, excludes such activities within the core area of the Unit and on certain lands acquired by the Secretary within the Unit.) Lastly, the measure continues to provide for the designation of zones where, and established periods when, no hunting, fishing, or trapping shall be permitted except for public safety reasons.

Legislative History

H.R. 1515 was introduced by Rep. Jindal (LA) on April 6, 2005. National Parks subcommittee hearings were held on June 9, 2005. 

For additional information or questions, please contact the Resources Committee at 5-2761.

H.R. 5059
New Hampshire Wilderness Act of 2006      

Floor Situation

The House is scheduled to consider H.R. 5059, under suspension of the rules, on Monday, September 25, 2006.  The bill is debatable for 40 minutes, may not be amended, and requires a two-thirds majority vote for passage.

Summary

H.R. 5059 designates specified federal lands in the White Mountain National Forest area of New Hampshire as a wilderness area (which shall be known as the Wild River Wilderness) and as a component of the National Wilderness Preservation System.

Legislative History

H.R. 5059 was introduced by Rep. Bass (NH) on March 30, 2006. The bill was referred to the Resources and Agriculture Committees but was not considered.

For additional information or questions, please contact Rep. Bass's office at 5-5206.

H.R. 5062
New Hampshire Wilderness Act of 2006       

Floor Situation

The House is scheduled to consider H.R. 5062, under suspension of the rules, on Monday, September 25, 2006.  The bill is debatable for 40 minutes, may not be amended, and requires a two-thirds majority vote for passage.

Summary

H.R. 5062 designates specified federal lands in the White Mountain National Forest area of New Hampshire as wilderness and incorporates such lands into the Sandwich Range Wilderness.

Legislative History

H.R. 5062 was introduced by Rep. Bradley (NH) on March 30, 2006. The bill was referred to the Resources and Agriculture Committees but was not considered.

For additional information or questions, please contact Rep. Bradley's office at 5-5456.

H.R. 5861
National Historic Preservation Act Amendments of 2006        

Floor Situation

The House is scheduled to consider H.R. 5861, under suspension of the rules, on Monday, September 25, 2006.  The bill is debatable for 40 minutes, may not be amended, and requires a two-thirds majority vote for passage.

Summary

A summary will be made available.

Legislative History

H.R. 5861 was introduced by Rep. Pearce (NM) on July 20, 2006. The bill was ordered to be reported, in the nature of a substitute, as amended, by unanimous consent, on July 26, 2006. House Report 109-641 was filed on September 6, 2006.

For additional information or questions, please contact Resources Committee  at 5-2761.

H.R. 4275
To Amend Public Law 106-348 to Extend the Authorization for Establishing a Memorial in the District of Columbia or its Environs to Honor Veterans who Became Disabled While Serving in the Armed Forces of the United States         

Floor Situation

The House is scheduled to consider H.R. 4275, under suspension of the rules, on Monday, September 25, 2006.  The bill is debatable for 40 minutes, may not be amended, and requires a two-thirds majority vote for passage.

Summary

H.R. 4275 extends through October 24, 2015, the authority of the Disabled Veterans' LIFE Memorial Foundation to establish in the District of Columbia or its environs a memorial to honor veterans who became disabled while serving in the Armed Forces.

Legislative History

H.R. 4275 was introduced by Rep. Kelly (NY) on November 9, 2006. The bill was ordered to be reported, by unanimous consent, on June 21, 2006. House Report 109-548 was filed on July 10, 2006.

For additional information or questions, please contact Resources Committee  at 5-2761.

H.R. 3871
To Authorize the Secretary of Interior to Convey to The Missouri River Basin Lewis and Clark Interpretive Trail and Visitor Center Foundation, Inc. Certain Federal Land Associated with the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail in Nebraska, to be Used as an Historical Interpretive Site Along the Trail          

Floor Situation

The House is scheduled to consider H.R. 3871, under suspension of the rules, on Monday, September 25, 2006.  The bill is debatable for 40 minutes, may not be amended, and requires a two-thirds majority vote for passage.

Summary

H.R. 3871 authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to convey to the Missouri River Basin Lewis and Clark Interpretive Trail and Visitor Center Foundation, Inc., specified federal land associated with the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail in Nebraska, to be used as an historic site and interpretive center for the Trail.

Legislative History

H.R. 3871 was introduced by Rep. Fortenberry (NE) on September 22, 2005. The bill was referred to the Resources Committee and subcommittee hearings were held.

For additional information or questions, please contact Resources Committee  at 5-2761.

H.R. 5132
River Raisin National Battlefield Study Act           

Floor Situation

The House is scheduled to consider H.R. 5132, under suspension of the rules, on Monday, September 25, 2006. The bill is debatable for 40 minutes, may not be amended, and requires a two-thirds majority vote for passage.

Summary

H.R. 5132 directs the Secretary of the Interior to conduct a special resource study of sites in Monroe County, Michigan, relating to the Battles of the River Raisin on January 18 and 22, 1813, and their aftermath to determine: (1) the national significance of the sites; and (2) the suitability and feasibility of including them in the National Park System.

Legislative History

H.R. 5132 was introduced by Rep. Dingell (MI) on April 6, 2006. The bill was ordered to be reported, in the nature of a substitute, as amended, by unanimous consent, on July 19, 2006. House Report 109-637 was filed on September 6, 2006. 

For additional information or questions, please contact Resources Committee  at 5-2761.

H.R. 1796
Mississippi River Trail Study Act            

Floor Situation

The House is scheduled to consider H.R. 1796, under suspension of the rules, on Monday, September 25, 2006. The bill is debatable for 40 minutes, may not be amended, and requires a two-thirds majority vote for passage.

Summary

H.R. 1796 amends the National Trails System Act to designate the route of the Mississippi River for study for potential addition to the National Trails System as a national scenic or historic trail.

Legislative History

H.R. 1796 was introduced by Rep. McCollum (MN) on April 21, 2005. The bill was ordered to be reported by voice vote on July 19, 2006. House Report 109-622 was filed on September 6, 2006. 

For additional information or questions, please contact Resources Committee  at 5-2761.

H.R. 3534
Piedras Blancas Historic Light Station Outstanding Natural Area Act of 2005            

Floor Situation

The House is scheduled to consider H.R. 3534, under suspension of the rules, on Monday, September 25, 2006. The bill is debatable for 40 minutes, may not be amended, and requires a two-thirds majority vote for passage.

Summary

H.R. 3534 establishes the Piedras Blancas Historic Light Station Outstanding Natural Area (Outstanding Natural Area) in San Luis Obispo County, California. The bill directs the Secretary of the Interior to manage the Outstanding Natural Area as part of the National Landscape Conservation System and to complete a comprehensive management plan to provide long-term management guidance for the public lands within the Outstanding Natural Area.

The measure authorizes the Secretary to enter into cooperative agreements with Federal, State, and local agencies to implement the management plan in the Outstanding Natural Area and to continue partnerships with local communities and the Hearst San Simeon State Historical Monument. H.R. 3534 provides for the acquisition of State and privately held lands adjacent to the Outstanding Natural Area as additions to the Outstanding Natural Area.

The bill prohibits restrictions on overflights and law enforcement activities in the Outstanding Natural Area.

The measure directs the Secretary to ensure access to the Outstanding Natural Area by Indians and Indian tribes for cultural and religious purposes.

Legislative History

H.R. 3534 was introduced by Rep. Capps (CA) on July 28, 2006. The bill was ordered to be reported, by unanimous consent, on July 19, 2006. House Report 109-627 was filed on September 6, 2006. 

For additional information or questions, please contact Resources Committee  at 5-2761.

H.R. 3127
Darfur Peace and Accountability Act of 2006 

Floor Situation

The House is scheduled to consider H.R. 3127, under suspension of the rules, on Monday, September 25, 2006. The bill is debatable for 40 minutes, may not be amended, and requires a two-thirds majority vote for passage.

Summary

A summary will be made available.

Legislative History

H.R. 3127 was introduced by Rep. Hyde (IL) on June 30, 2005. The bill was referred to the International Relations Committee and the Judiciary Committee. The bill was reported from the International Relations Committee, as amended, by voice vote on March 8, 2006. House Report 109-392, Part I was filed on March 14, 2006. The bill was reported from the Judiciary Committee, as amended, by voice vote on March 15, 2006. House Report 109-392, Part II was filed on March 29, 2006.

For additional information or questions, please contact the International Relations Committee at 5-5021.

H.Con.Res. 430
Recognizing the Accomplishments of the American Council of Young Political Leaders for Providing 40 Years of International Exchange Programs, Increasing International Dialogue, and Enhancing Global Understanding, and Commemorating its 40th Anniversary 

Floor Situation

The House is scheduled to consider H.Con.Res. 430, under suspension of the rules, on Monday, September 25, 2006.  It is debatable for 40 minutes, may not be amended, and requires a two-thirds majority vote for passage.

Summary

H.Con.Res 430 resolves that the  Congress commends the American Council of Young Political Leaders for working for forty years to prepare young political leaders to play a leadership role in international relations and world affairs, Congress congratulates the American Council of Young Political Leaders for exemplifying a stellar example of public diplomacy that works, and Congress salutes the American Council of Young Political Leaders for being a preeminent catalyst for introducing rising political leaders and policy makers to international affairs and to each other.

Background

Citizen-to-citizen exchanges offer unique opportunities for learning from one another about commonly-shared solutions to problems, as well as different perspectives on forms of government and the aspirations other nations have for their citizens.

The American Council of Young Political Leaders (hereinafter referred to as the `ACYPL') was incorporated on September 1, 1966, by young leaders to open lines of communication and increase cross cultural understanding among future generations of political leadership.

ACYPL prepares in-depth study tours for young leaders, aged between 25 and 40 years old, to give them much-needed international exposure early in their political careers.

ACYPL targets young politicians likely to assume future positions of responsibility and leadership as Federal and State legislators, mayors, city council members and other State and local elected officials, many of whom may not have previously traveled outside the United States.

ACYPL programs are strictly bipartisan: American delegates are drawn equally from both major political parties and from all 50 States; ACYPL's overseas delegations are chosen to represent the political and cultural diversity of their home countries.

Every dollar ACYPL receives in Federal funding becomes about another dollar and fifty cents through cost-share, in-kind contributions and outside fundraising, making this program one of the most cost effective public diplomacy programs supported by the United States Department of State.

The ACYPL's operations have evolved from its initial focus on Western Europe where there was limited interaction between the emerging leadership in the post-World War II nations and the United States to meet the challenges and to embrace public diplomacy opportunities in a changing world.

In the ensuing decades, the ACYPL's programs have extended to 90 nations in all regions of the world, including the Middle East, sub-Sahara Africa, the Western Hemisphere, East Asia, and the Pacific Rim.

IACYPL became one of the very few organizations with which the Soviet Union agreed to conduct political exchanges during the height of the Cold War, and ACYPL launched an exchange relationship between young political leaders in the United States and China following normalization of relations in 1979.

IACYPL exchange programs have endured during times of government-to-government strain, such as with China during the hostilities in Tiananmen Square and the Hainan Island incident, with the Soviets during their war in Afghanistan, and with Venezuela today.

IACYPL maintains its legacy of exchanging with recent post-conflict nations and assembling young leaders from places that have experienced bitter conflict, including Vietnam, Northern Ireland, Pakistan and India, Israel and the West Bank, and Greece and Turkey.

Since 1966, the ACYPL has produced a global network of more than six thousand alumni, a large number of whom have risen to positions of great influence in the United States and in nations around the world.

Prominent American ACYPL alumni include members of the United States Congress, cabinet members, governors, United States ambassadors, and many senior level national, State, and local executive and legislative branch officials.

Distinguished international ACYPL alumni include prime ministers, cabinet members, ambassadors and parliamentarians.

ACYPL looks to the future in an increasingly uncertain world, and remains steadfast in its mission to promote understanding and cultivate lasting political, economic and cultural relationships among young political leaders and policy-makers worldwide through the regular exchange of delegations, educational forums, leadership training and ongoing dialogue.

Legislative History

H.Con.Res. 430 was introduced by Rep. Thomas (CA) on June 14, 2006. The bill was referred to the International Relations Committee, but was not considered.

For additional information or questions, please contact Rep. Thomas' office at 5-2915.

H.Res. 723
Calling on the President to Take Immediate Steps to Help Improve the Security Situation in Darfur, Sudan, with a Specific Emphasis on CivilianProtection 

Floor Situation

The House is scheduled to consider H.Res. 723, under suspension of the rules, on Monday, September 25, 2006.  It is debatable for 40 minutes, may not be amended, and requires a two-thirds majority vote for passage.

Summary

H.Res. 723 resolves that the House of Representatives (1) commends the Africa Union Mission in Sudan (AMIS) for its actions in monitoring the N'Djamena Ceasefire Agreement in Darfur and its role in diminishing some acts of violence, (2) strongly condemns the continued genocide against civilians in Darfur by the Government of Sudan and government-sponsored militias and the continued violations of the N'Djamena Ceasefire Agreement by both parties to the agreement, (3) calls upon both parties to the N'Djamena Ceasefire Agreement to abide by the terms of the N'Djamena Ceasefire Agreement and to engage in good-faith negotiations to end the conflict in Darfur, (4) calls upon the Government of Sudan immediately to withdraw all military aircraft from the region, to cease all support for Janjaweed militias and rebels from Chad and to disarm all Janjaweed militias, (5) calls on the African Union to work closely with the United Nations and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) to strengthen its capacity to deter violence and instability until a United Nations peacekeeping force is fully deployed in Darfur, (6) calls on NATO to extend its current mission of advisors to the African Union, as requested by the leadership of the African Union, (7) calls upon the United Nations Security Council to approve as soon as possible, pursuant to Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations, a peacekeeping force for Darfur that is well trained and equipped and has adequate troop strength, (8) urges the President to take steps immediately to help improve the security situation in Darfur, including by proposing that NATO, implement an interim civilian protection force using ground and air assets under centralized planning, direction, and control, to protect civilians until a United Nations peacekeeping force is fully deployed in Darfur, and requesting supplemental funding to support AMIS and a NATO mission in Darfur, (9) calls upon NATO allies to support such a NATO mission, and (10) calls upon NATO headquarters staff to begin prudent planning in advance of such a NATO mission.

Background

the United States Congress and Administration are on record as declaring that the atrocities being committed in Darfur, Sudan are genocide.

The April 8, 2004, N'Djamena Ceasefire Agreement, calling for an end to hostilities in Darfur has been flagrantly violated by the Government of Sudan and its proxies, the Janjaweed militias, which have continued to engage in acts of genocide against innocent civilians.

The African Union (AU) deployed the African Union Mission in Sudan (AMIS) to Darfur to monitor the violence and, in spite of attacks on AMIS observers that has resulted in kidnappings and deaths, AMIS has protected civilians from further violence and, according to Human Rights Watch, while the mandate of AMIS does not allow for proactive protection of civilians, AMIS has been successful in creating pockets of security for displaced persons simply through its presence.

Rebel movements known as the Sudanese Liberation Army (SLA) and the Justice and Empowerment Movement (JEM) have violated the N'Djamena Ceasefire Agreement and such violations have contributed to growing instability.

The Government of Sudan and its armed militia groups continue to commit crimes against humanity and engage in genocidal acts in Darfur, in spite of the presence of AMIS forces, and, as of February 22, 2006, Janjaweed militias were still attacking innocent villagers in retaliation for encounters with rebel forces.

Subsequent to the signing of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement between the Government of Sudan and the Sudan People's Liberation Movement/Sudan People's Liberation Army (SPLM/SPLA) on January 9, 2005, the Government of Sudan refused a proposal from the Sudan People's Liberation Movement (SPLM) to send joint troops to protect civilians and disarm the government-supported militia.

United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan has indicated that, `People in many parts of Darfur continue to be killed, raped, and driven from their homes by the thousands.'

It has been reported that an estimated 300,000 to 400,000 people have died in the conflict-affected area of Darfur and eastern Chad, and due to the number of areas that cannot be accounted for, the total number of deaths may be higher.

Nearly 2,000,000 people have been internally displaced, 3,000,000 people are dependant on international assistance to survive, and more than 200,000 people are refugees in neighboring Chad due to the conflict in Darfur.

Human Rights Watch reported on February 16, 2006, that Janjaweed militias and Chadian rebel groups with support from the Sudanese Government were launching deadly cross-border raids on villages in eastern Chad, further escalating the humanitarian crisis for the people of Darfur.

Salim Ahmed Salim, the AU Special Envoy for the Darfur Talks and Chief Mediator at the ongoing talks in Abuja, Nigeria, indicated that all parties to existing ceasefire agreements were increasingly resorting to military attacks in contravention of such agreements and impeding the distribution of humanitarian aid to millions of people in need and that, in each month since October 2005, the violence in Darfur has worsened.

The ongoing assault on civilians by Sudanese Government forces and Janjaweed militias requires forces larger than the current AMIS forces and with a stronger mandate than such AMIS forces in order to adequately protect civilians in Darfur.

The United States has demonstrated leadership on the Sudan issue for years by mediating Sudan's North-South Peace Agreement, by declaring genocide in Darfur, by providing nearly $1 billion in humanitarian assistance over time, and by having United States Permanent Representative to the United Nations John Bolton, in his first action as President of the United Nations Security Council, request in February 2006 that Secretary-General Annan initiate contingency planning for a transition from AMIS to a United Nations peacekeeping operation.

Although the United Nations Security Council has concurred with this recommendation and taken steps toward establishing a United Nations peacekeeping mission for Darfur, reports have concluded that it could take up to a year for such a mission to deploy fully.

As the deteriorating security situation in Darfur indicates, the people of Darfur cannot wait that long for security to be reestablished.

The international community currently has no plan to address the immediate security needs of the people of Darfur.

All members of the international community must participate in efforts to stop genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity in Darfur.

Legislative History

H.Res. 723 was introduced by Rep. Lantos (CA) on March 14, 2006. The bill was ordered to be reported from the International Relations Committee, by unanimous consent, on September 13, 2006.

For additional information or questions, please contact the International Relations Committee at 5-5021.

H.Res. 992
Urging the President to Appoint a Presidential Special Envoy for Sudan 

Floor Situation

The House is scheduled to consider H.Res. 992, under suspension of the rules, on Monday, September 25, 2006.  It is debatable for 40 minutes, may not be amended, and requires a two-thirds majority vote for passage.

Summary

H.Res. 992 resolves that the House of Representatives  (1) commends the many years of tireless efforts of United States officials who have helped secure the Comprehensive Peace Agreement and the Darfur Peace Agreement, (2) strongly supports the appointment of an adequately staffed Presidential Special Envoy for Sudan with a robust mandate to develop and coordinate United States policy toward Sudan with regular access to senior Administration officials, and (3) strongly urges the mandate of the Presidential Special Envoy for Sudan to include: (A) deterring a further escalation of violence and humanitarian disaster in the Darfur region of Sudan while ensuring civilians are adequately protected and the Darfur Peace Agreement is fully implemente, (B) facilitating the development of an international peacekeeping mission to Darfur with a mandate to protect civilians and humanitarian workers, (C) ensuring implementation of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement, which ended the 21-year civil war in Southern Sudan, Nuba, Southern Blue Nile, and Abyei and helping secure a just peace in Eastern Sudan, (D) coordination of reconstruction and development work in Southern Sudan and other marginalized areas, (E) coordination and monitoring of the return of refugees and displaced people to their homes in Darfur and southern Sudan, (F) securing and consolidating peace in Northern Uganda by working closely with the Government of South Sudan and the Government of Uganda, (G) coordination of efforts to ensure implementation of the transformation of the Sudan People's Liberation Army (SPLA) into a professional armed force, (H) work toward achieving a peaceful, stable, and democratic Sudan by ensuring that free and fair elections are held, as called for in the Comprehensive Peace Agreement, by coordinating and implementing programs necessary to achieve these objectives, and (I) coordination of efforts to work toward achieving accountability for the crimes committed in Darfur by working closely with relevant individuals and entities engaged in this area.

Background

In July 2004, the United States House of Representatives and Senate declared that the atrocities in the Darfur region of Sudan constitute genocide, and the Bush administration reached the same conclusion in September 2004, when then Secretary of State Colin Powell stated that `the evidence leads us to the conclusion that genocide has occurred and may still be occurring in Darfur'.

More than 400,000 people have been killed by the Government of Sudan and its Janjaweed allies since the crisis began in 2003, more than 2,000,000 people have been displaced from their homes, and more than 250,000 people from Darfur remain in refugee camps in Chad.

Some rebel factions, which have targeted civilians in the Darfur region, have intensified their attacks even after the signing of the Darfur Peace Agreement in May 2006.

The United Nations Under-Secretary General for Humanitarian Affairs, Jan Egland, in late August 2006 stated that `[i]nsecurity is at its highest level since 2004, access at its lowest levels since that date, and we may well be on the brink of a return to all-out war'.

Despite the signing of the Darfur Peace Agreement in May 2006, violence against civilians, peacekeepers, and humanitarian workers continues unabated; and an estimated 12 humanitarian workers have been killed in Darfur, including a nurse in September 2006.

In August 2006, the Government of Sudan began to deploy thousands of government troops for a major offensive in Darfur, once again threatening a major humanitarian catastrophe and risking the safety and security of millions of civilians.

According to the Government of Sudan's plan, in a document submitted to the United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan, the Government of Sudan plans to deploy approximately 26,500 additional troops and 7,050 additional police to Darfur.

The objectives of this deployment are `to deal with the threats posed by the activities of groups that have rejected the Darfur Peace Agreement and to gain control over the security situation and achieve stability in Darfur'.

The United Nations Security Council passed a resolution expanding the mandate of the United Nations Mission in Sudan (UNMIS) for the additional deployment of 17,300 peacekeeping troops and 3,300 civilian police personnel as well as 16 formed police units to Darfur.

President Omar Bashir of Sudan has rejected the deployment of a United Nations peacekeeping force to Darfur, even as First Vice President Salva Kiir has publicly stated his support for the deployment of a United Nations peacekeeping mission to Darfur.

Implementation of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) between the Government of Sudan and the Sudan People's Liberation Movement (SPLM) is slow, raising serious concern about the commitment of the Government of Sudan to fulfill its responsibilities.

In July 2005, although the Abyei Boundary Commission, established to define and demarcate the area of the nine Ngok Dinka chiefdoms, finished its work and submitted its report to President Bashir, the President has yet to implement the conclusions of the Commission, as called for in the Comprehensive Peace Agreement.

The reconstruction and development of Southern Sudan and other marginalized areas remains a major challenge, while the return of refugees and displaced people to their homes in Darfur will require major financial commitments and the establishment of a secure and safe environment throughout Darfur.

In order to tackle these many and difficult challenges, the appointment of a Presidential Special Envoy for Sudan with a robust mandate and access to, and support of, senior Administration officials, including the President, is crucial.

Members of Congress and Senators, leading foreign policy experts, and many nongovernmental organizations have called repeatedly for the appointment of a Presidential Envoy for Sudan to effectively represent the United States Government in heading off a further escalation of genocide in Darfur.

United States Government officials have diligently pursued peace agreements to end the North-South conflict and the Darfur conflict and the United States Government has provided more than $2 billion in assistance to help the suffering people of Sudan.

Legislative History

H.Res. 992 was introduced by Rep. Wolf (VA) on September 7, 2006. The bill was ordered to be reported from the International Relations Committee, by unanimous consent, on September 13, 2006.

For additional information or questions, please contact the International Relations Committee at 5-5021.

H.Res. 989
Commending the United Kingdom for its Efforts in the War on Terror, and for Other Purposes 

Floor Situation

The House is scheduled to consider H.Res. 989, under suspension of the rules, on Monday, September 25, 2006.  It is debatable for 40 minutes, may not be amended, and requires a two-thirds majority vote for passage.

Summary

H.Res. 989 resolves that the House of Representatives (1) commends the law enforcement authorities of the United Kingdom on their action to prevent a terrible attack from occurring, (2) commends the intelligence community of the United Kingdom for its outstanding work in identifying the citizens seeking to carry out this plot, (3) condemns those that would use acts of violence against innocent civilians to spread a message of hate and intolerance, and (4) urges the allies of the United States in the Global War on Terror to remain steadfast in the execution of this important mission.

Background

On August 10, 2006, British police arrested 24 people for plotting to commit acts of terror on trans-Atlantic flights.

As of August 31, 2006, 12 citizens have been charged for their roles in the terror plot, including eight citizens charge with conspiracy to murder.

United Kingdom authorities acted swiftly and decisively to prevent a horrific attack on scores of innocent people.

The United Kingdom and the United States have been close allies in not only two World Wars and Operation Desert Storm, but also the Global War on Terror.

The intelligence and military communities of the United Kingdom and the United States continue to work together to win the Global War on Terror.

The threat of terrorism is a grave concern for all nations, regardless of geographical or other boundaries.

Acts of terror have profoundly affected citizens across the globe, including those in Bali, Turkey, India, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

Victory in the Global War on Terror is a necessity to ensure the liberty and safety of all people.

Legislative History

H.Res. 989 was introduced by Rep. Poe (TX) on September 7, 2006. The bill was ordered to be reported from the International Relations Committee, by voice vote, on September 21, 2006.

For additional information or questions, please contact the International Relations Committee at 5-5021.

H.Res. 965
Commending the People of Montenegro on the Conduct of the Referendum on Independence, Welcoming United States Recognition of the Sovereignty and Independence of the Republic of Montenegro, and Welcoming Montenegrin Membership in the United Nations and Other International Organizations  

Floor Situation

The House is scheduled to consider H.Res. 965, under suspension of the rules, on Monday, September 25, 2006. The bill is debatable for 40 minutes, may not be amended, and requires a two-thirds majority vote for passage.

Summary

H.Res. 965 amends the the Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, to consider as an "agent of a foreign principal" a Member of Congress who advocates on behalf of a foreign person or commercial entity in order to influence or change any U.S. law or regulation that would ease restrictions on a state sponsor of terrorism.

The bill amends the Trade Sanctions Reform and Export Enhancement Act of 2000 to state that any agreement or action for by a U.S. person, including a Member of Congress, on behalf of a foreign person in order to influence or change any U.S. law or regulation that would ease restrictions on a state sponsor of terrorism, or provide a financial benefit to the foreign person or business concern shall be deemed to be prohibited U.S. export assistance.

The measure expresses the sense of Congress that any Member of Congress who enters into any such agreement or takes any action on behalf of a foreign person should be sanctioned under the appropriate rules of the Senate or the House of Representatives.

Legislative History

H.Res. 965 was introduced by Rep. Lantos (CA) on July 28, 2006. The bill was referred to the International Relations Committee and markup session was held.

For additional information or questions, please contact the International Relations Committee at 5-5021.

H.Res. 1017
Affirming Support for the Sovereignty and Security of Lebanon and the Lebanese People 

Floor Situation

The House is scheduled to consider H.Res. 1017, under suspension of the rules, on Monday, September 25, 2006.  It is debatable for 40 minutes, may not be amended, and requires a two-thirds majority vote for passage.

Summary

H.Res. 1017 resolves that the House of Representatives  (1) commends the many Lebanese who continue to adhere steadfastly to the principles of the Cedar Revolution, (2) commends the democratically-elected Government of Lebanon for its critical and courageous decision to deploy the Lebanese armed forces, for the first time in decades, to Lebanon's border with Israel, (3) affirms that the clear intention of the international community, as expressed in United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701, is that the flow of weapons to Hizballah should cease and that Hizballah should be disarmed, (4) calls on all countries, and particularly countries through which Iranian-supplied materiel passes en route from Iran to Hizballah, to take every possible measure to prevent the transfer of arms to Hizballah, so as to contribute to the stability of Lebanon and of the region and to the enforcement of the sovereignty of the Government of Lebanon over its own territory, as required by UNSCR 1701, (5) calls on the international community to monitor the compliance of Iran and Syria with the arms embargo on Hizballah, as these two countries are the principal suppliers of weaponry to Hizballah, (6) calls on Iran and Syria to cease supporting Hizballah with funds and arms, (7) condemns Syria's ongoing overt and covert campaign of intimidation against Lebanon, (8) condemns the Syrian leader's outrageous claim that the deployment of international peace-keeping forces on the Lebanese-Syrian border would be `hostile' against Syria, (9) urges the Government of Lebanon to request without delay a robust international force deployment on the Lebanese border with Syria, so as to prevent the re-supply of weapons to Hizballah and to ensure the full implementation of all aspects of UNSCR 1701 in spirit and intent, as well as in letter, (10) believes that without such an international deployment on the Lebanese border with Syria another Hizballah-provoked war will break out with horrendous consequences for the people of Lebanon, Israel, and the entire region, (11) pledges support for the democratically-elected Government of Lebanon and the Lebanese people against Syria's campaign of intimidation, and (12) re-affirms its strong support for Lebanon's independence and for the full sovereignty of the Government of Lebanon over Lebanese territory, through the instrument of the Lebanese armed forces.

Background

Lebanon's remarkable Cedar Revolution led to the withdrawal of Syrian occupation troops in April 2005, the most significant step toward true Lebanese independence and sovereignty since the outbreak of civil war in 1975.

The Cedar Revolution reached a dramatic crescendo on March 14, 2005, when one million Lebanese demonstrated in Beirut's Martyrs Square demanding freedom and independence and an end to the Syrian occupation.

True Lebanese independence and sovereignty was not fully achieved even after the Syrian troop withdrawal for many reasons, including especially the apparent ongoing presence of Syrian security personnel in Lebanon, an ongoing assassination campaign against Lebanese public figures who oppose appeasement of Syria, and Hizballah's control and militarization of southern Lebanon.

On August 12, 2006, during the fighting between Israel and Hizballah, the Government of Lebanon for the first time in decades called for the deployment of the Lebanese armed forces throughout Lebanese territory `such that there will be no weapons or authority other than that of the Lebanese state'.

United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701, which ended the fighting, authorizes an enhanced United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) to `accompany and support the Lebanese armed forces as they deploy throughout the (Lebanese) South', a process which is currently underway.

UNSCR 1701 also calls for the enhanced UNIFIL force, at the `request' of the Government of Lebanon, to assist the Government of Lebanon `to secure its borders and other entry points to prevent the entry in Lebanon without its consent of arms or related materiel'.

The Lebanese armed forces are inadequate to the task of interdicting arms-smuggling along the Syrian border without the assistance of an international force.

The Government of Lebanon has not yet requested the assistance of the enhanced UNIFIL force on the Syrian border.

Syria is trying to intimidate Lebanon from requesting UNIFIL assistance on the border, with threatening statements such as the Syrian leader's warning that such deployment would be deemed `hostile'.

It is manifestly in the interests of the international community, which seeks peace and stability in the Middle East, to support the full sovereignty and security of Lebanon.

Legislative History

H.Res. 1017 was introduced by Rep. Lantos (CA) on September 20, 2006. The bill was referred to the International Relations Committee, but was not considered.

For additional information or questions, please contact Rep. Lantos' office at 5-3531.

H.Res. 940
Recognizing the 185th Anniversary of the Independence of Peru on July 28, 2006 

Floor Situation

The House is scheduled to consider H.Res. 940, under suspension of the rules, on Monday, September 25, 2006.  It is debatable for 40 minutes, may not be amended, and requires a two-thirds majority vote for passage.

Summary

H.Res. 940 resolves that the House of Representatives (1) recognizes the 185th anniversary of the independence of Peru, (2) extends warm congratulations and best wishes to Peru for peace and further progress, development, and prosperity, and (3) extends best wishes to Peruvians and Peruvian-Americans residing in the United States as they celebrate the 185th anniversary of Peru's independence.

Background

Peru gained independence from Spain on July 28, 1821, when the Republic of Peru was established as a sovereign and independent country.

The people of Peru have established a unique, pluralistic democracy which includes the freedoms cherished by the people of the United States, including freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom of association, freedom of the press, and government by the consent of the governed.

Peru continues to serve as a shining model of democratic values by regularly holding free and fair elections and promoting the free exchange of ideas.

Since Peru became an independent country, the interests of Peru and the United States have been closely aligned.

The people of the United States share affinity with the people of Peru and view Peru as a strong and trusted ally.

Peru is a supporter of the United States in the Global War on Terror, and joins the United States in promoting political and economic freedoms, combating poverty, crime, disease, and drugs, and promoting security, stability, and prosperity.

The bonds of association and friendship between the peoples of the two countries have been strengthened by the large number of Peruvians who have migrated to the United States, where they make significant contributions to both the United States and Peru.

Peru is an integral member of the Latin American region and a constructive partner of the United States in fulfilling the agenda of the Western Hemisphere.

The Peruvians and Peruvian-Americans residing in the United States have enriched and added to the United States way of life in the social, economic, and political arenas and Peru's rich identity and heritage have become an integral part of the cultural tapestry of the United States.

Legislative History

H.Res. 940 was introduced by Rep. Crowley (NY) on July 24, 2006. The bill was ordered to be reported from the International Relations Committee, by unanimous consent, on September 13, 2006.

For additional information or questions, please contact the International Relations Committee at 5-5021.

H.R. 5454
To Authorize Salary Adjustments for Justices and Judges of the United States for Fiscal Year 2007

Floor Situation

The House is scheduled to consider H.R. 5454, under suspension of the rules, on Monday, September 25, 2006.  It is debatable for 40 minutes, may not be amended, and requires a two-thirds majority vote for passage.

Summary

H.R. 5454 authorizes salary adjustments for Justices and Judges. Pursuant to section 140 of Public Law 97-92, Justices and judges of the United States are authorized during fiscal year 2007 to receive a salary adjustment in accordance with section 461 of title 28, United States Code.

Legislative History

H.R. 5454 was introduced by Rep. Sensenbrenner (WI) on May 23, 2006.  It was referred to the Judiciary Committee, but was not considered.

For additional information or questions, please contact the Judiciary Committee at 5-3951.

H.R. 5092
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (BATFE) Modernization and Reform Act of 2006 

Floor Situation

The House is scheduled to consider H.R. 5092, under suspension of the rules, on Monday, September 25, 2006.  It is debatable for 40 minutes, may not be amended, and requires a two-thirds majority vote for passage.

Summary

H.R. 5092 amends the firearms provisions of the federal criminal code to reforms and modernizes the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives' (`BATFE') enforcement authority. Reform measures include: authorization of graduated penalties and civil penalties (e.g. fines and suspensions), creation of independent administrative law judges to hear enforcement cases,a clarification on the definition of the requisite state of mind for civil violations, the establishment of investigative guidelines,) request that the Department of Justice Inspector General investigate BATFE's gun show enforcement practices, and clarification of several enforcement regulations.

Section 2 of H.R. 5092 establishes a graduated penalty system under 18 U.S.C. Sec. 923, which includes civil penalties, based on the degree of risk of harm that the FFL's violation poses to others. This bill provides the BATFE with graduated sanctions so that FFLs will face a full range of possible sanctions, including civil penalties, suspensions and the ultimate penalty, revocation of their licenses. Any sanction is based on whether the violation is `serious,' those that pose a risk to the public, or are `minor violations,' those that do not pose a risk of harm to the public. The bill also sets penalty caps: $5,000 for minor violations, and $15,000 for serious violations. Further, repeat offenders who commit minor violations can eventually have their license revoked. Serious violations will also result in revocation.

Section 2 of the bill sets out a five year statute of limitations for enforcement of violations, but extends that period if a licensee obstructs discovery of the violation. If the licensee has not violated the law for five years, there is no need to subject the licensee to enforcement action. The Federal criminal code imposes a five year statute of limitations for criminal offenses and the tax code imposes a three year statute of limitation for felonies and six years set for serious felonies, all from the date of occurrence of the violation.

H.R. 5092 also establishes: a system of neutral administrative law judges to review the licensing and enforcement decisions of the BATFE, investigative guidelines similar to those which apply to the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Drug Enforcement Agency, a clear definition of the requisite intent for civil violations to ensure that BATF properly focuses on licensees who intentionally violate known legal requirements, and a new procedure for enforcement actions which enhances due process rights and expedites enforcement actions.

Legislative History

H.R. 5092 was introduced by Rep. Coble (NC) on April 5, 2006. The bill was ordered to be reported from the Judiciary Committee, by voice vote, on September 7, 2006. House Report 109-672 was filed on September 21, 2006. 

For additional information or questions, please contact the Judiciary Committee at 5-3951.

H.R. 1036
 Amending title 17, United States Code, Making Technical Corrections Relating to Copyright Royalty Judges

Floor Situation

The House considered H.R. 1036, under suspension of the rules, on November 16, 2005. It is debatable for 40 minutes, may not be amended, and requires a two-thirds majority vote for passage.

Summary

H.R. 1036 amends provisions regarding copyright royalty judges to: (1) make technical changes; (2) provide that Copyright Royalty Judges (CRJs) are to act in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act; (2) include prior determinations and interpretations of copyright arbitration royalty panels that are not inconsistent with a decision of the Librarian of Congress or the Register of Copyrights among the precedents that CRJs must consider; and (3) require that the Librarian of Congress receive authorization from the CRJs before distributing statutory licensing fees for secondary transmissions by cable systems or satellite carriers even when no controversy about such distribution exists.

Legislative History

H.R. 1036 was introduced by Rep. Smith (TX) on March 2, 2005. The bill was reported from the Judiciary Committee by voice vote on March 9, 2005.  House Report  109-64 was filed on April 28, 2005. The House passed H.R. 1036, by a voice vote, on November 16, 2005. The Senate passed the bill with amendments, by unanimous consent, on July 19, 2006.

For additional information or questions, please contact the Judiciary Committee at 5-3951.