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Preserving a Lifeline: Examining Public Housing in a Pandemic, Virtual Hearing Before the Subcommittee on Housing, Community Development, and Insurance of the Committee on Financial Services, U.S. House of Representatives, One Hundred Seventeenth Congress, First Session, March 24, 2021
This is the March 24, 2021 virtual hearing on "Preserving a Lifeline: Examining Public Housing in a Pandemic," held before the U.S. House of Representatives Subcommittee on Housing, Community Development, and Insurance of the Committee on Financial Services. From the opening statement of Emanuel Cleaver: "[T]he national affordable housing challenge that gave rise to the need for public housing continues to persist. According to the National Low Income Housing Coalition, the United States has a shortage of roughly 7 million rental homes that are affordable and available to extremely low-income renters. Only 37 percent of affordable and available rental homes exist for every 100 extremely low-income renter households. [...] Public housing is critical infrastructure. And I want to thank again, publicly, Full Committee Chairwoman Waters, for her steadfast, strong, unbending support for affordable housing, and I think that it is long past due when we should place emphasis on public housing. We also cannot forget, in this conversation, that public housing communities are often more than housing. Amid COVID-19 [coronavirus disease 2019], housing authorities have played an important role in protecting residents, ensuring social support activities could continue, and securing opportunities for testing and vaccinations." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Georgi Banna, Oscar Duran, Brian Gage, Michael Hendrix, and Tamir Ali Mohamud.
United States. Government Publishing Office
2021
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Pipelines Over People (Part II): Midship Pipeline's Disregard for Landowners in Its Pathway, Hearing Before the Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Civil Liberties of the Committee on Oversight and Reform, House of Representatives, One Hundred Seventeenth Congress, First Session, May 5, 2021
This is the May 5, 2021 hearing on "Oversight of the Department of Homeland Security's Office of Inspector General," held before the House of Representatives Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Civil Liberties of the Committee on Oversight and Reform. From the opening statement of Jamie Raskin: "This hearing is a continuation of our investigation into the imbalance of power between private landowners and pipeline companies at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, FERC. Our subcommittee's been investigating FERC's process for permitting natural gas pipelines and its effects on the rights of landowners since February of last year. Our initial investigation revealed that FERC's rules and practices allowed these big companies to trample the rights of individual landowners. [...] I'm delighted that we're launching the work of this subcommittee this year with a problem, and hopefully with solutions, where we will have broad, bipartisan agreement about the need to protect the property rights of American citizens." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Rob Squires, Samuel B. Gedge, Christopher A. Smith, and Terry Luber.
United States. Government Publishing Office
2021
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National Incident Management System: Incident Complexity Guide: Planning, Preparedness and Training
From the Introduction: "The Incident Complexity Guide: Planning, Preparedness and Training supports the National Incident Management System (NIMS) doctrine by establishing guidance to support the incident management and emergency management community. This guide promotes a common understanding within the whole community by using a consistent method to describe incident complexity principles. It also establishes a framework for determining incident complexity level to inform emergency planning, preparedness and training and to improve operational readiness to respond to real events and incidents."
United States. Federal Emergency Management Agency
2021-06
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NIH Intramural Research Program Animal Program Disaster Plan Overview
From the Objectives: "The intent of this Overview document is to inform members of the NIH [National Institutes of Health] IRP [Intramural Research Program] Animal Programs of the standardized communication links and procedures used by NIH Emergency and COOP [Continuity of Operations Plan] personnel during emergency responses. This Overview document discusses: the communication relationships between NIH Emergency Response Personnel and IC [Institutes and Centers] elements during emergency events; the components and structure of the NIH Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP); the Animal Resources Team structure and function; the IC Crisis Response Teams (CRT) structure, function, and communication processes; and the NIH policies pertaining to emergency/disaster plans. The Template document provides: 'proposed' outlines of the specific emergency/disaster plans addressed in an IC animal program's emergency/disaster plan, general emergency response guidance, and links to emergency response websites and references."
National Institutes of Health (U.S.)
2021-05-27
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Federal Habeas Corpus: A Brief Legal Overview [April 26, 2006]
"Federal habeas corpus is a procedure under which a federal court may review the legality of an individual's incarceration. It is most often the stage of the criminal appellate process that follows direct appeal and any available state collateral review. The law in the area is an intricate weave of statute and case law. Current federal law operates under the premise that with rare exceptions prisoners challenging the legality of the procedures by which they were tried or sentenced get 'one bite of the apple.' Relief for state prisoners is only available if the state courts have ignored or rejected their valid claims, and there are strict time limits within which they may petition the federal courts for relief. Moreover, a prisoner relying upon a novel interpretation of law must succeed on direct appeal; federal habeas review may not be used to establish or claim the benefits of a 'new rule.' Expedited federal habeas procedures are available in the case of state death row inmates if the state has provided an approved level of appointed counsel. The Supreme Court has held that Congress enjoys considerable authority to limit, but not to extinguish, access to the writ."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Doyle, Charles
2006-04-26
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China-U.S. Relations: Current Issues and Implications for U.S. Policy [Updated December 7, 2006]
From the Summary: "In the George W. Bush Administration, U.S.-China relations have remained unusually smooth and stable. But U.S. policy toward China now appears to be subject to competing reassessments. State Department officials in 2005 unveiled what they said was a new policy framework for the relationship - one in which the United States was willing to work cooperatively with a non-democratic China while encouraging Beijing to become a 'responsible stakeholder' in the global system. Other U.S. policymakers appear to be adopting tougher stances on issues involving China and U.S.-China relations, concerned about strong PRC economic growth and a more assertive and influential PRC diplomacy in the international arena. Taiwan, which China considers a 'renegade province,' remains the most sensitive issue the two countries face and the one many observers fear could lead to Sino-U.S. conflict. Late in 2004 PRC officials created more tension over Taiwan by passing an 'anti-secession' law (adopted in March 2005) aimed at curbing Taiwan independence. U.S. officials regarded the action as provocative and unconstructive. In February 2006, Taiwan President Chen Shui-bian suspended the activities of the National Unification Council, a symbol of Taiwan's commitment to unification with China, citing in part the 2005 anti-secession law as a reason for his action. Both the PRC and Taiwan moves have raised U.S. concerns about cross-strait stability. The 109th Congress has been considering these and other issues in H.R. 5122, the Defense Authorization Act of FY2007, and S. 295, a bill to authorize punitive action if China's currency is not reevaluated."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Dumbaugh, Kerry
2006-12-07
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North Korean Economy: Background and Policy Analysis [Updated January 24, 2006]
"The economy of North Korea is of interest to Congress because the it provides the financial and industrial resources for Pyongyang to develop its military, constitutes an important "push factor" for potential refugees seeking to flee the country, creates pressures for the country to trade in arms and illegal drugs, is a rationale for humanitarian assistance, is tied to Pyongyang's program to develop nuclear energy and bombs, and creates instability that ultimately affects the economy of South Korea. The North Korean threat to sell nuclear weapons material could be driven in part by its need to generate export earnings. The dismal economic conditions also foster forces of discontent that potentially could turn against the Kim regime -- especially if knowledge of luxurious lifestyle of communist party leaders becomes better known or as the poor economic performance hurts even Pyongyang's elite. The North Korean economy also is a target of economic sanctions. Economic conditions in North Korea have been dismal for those out of the center of power. Mass starvation -- eased only by international food aid and other humanitarian assistance -- has stalked the countryside. With the termination of aid from Russia in the form of fuel and other raw materials at concessional prices, industrial production in North Korea has shrunk, from 60% of the economy in 1987 to 27% in 2002. The country has embarked on a program of economic reforms that include raising wages, allowing prices to better reflect market values, reducing dependence on rationing of essential commodities, less centralized control over factory operations, and opening foreign trade zones for international investment."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Nanto, Dick Kazuyuki; Chanlett-Avery, Emma
2006-01-24
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U.S. Nuclear Cooperation With India: Issues for Congress [Updated December 22, 2006]
From the Summary: "On July 18, 2005, President Bush announced he would 'work to achieve full civil nuclear energy cooperation with India' and would 'also seek agreement from Congress to adjust U.S. laws and policies,' in the context of a broader, global partnership with India to promote stability, democracy, prosperity and peace. Administration officials have promoted nuclear cooperation with India as a way to reduce India's carbon dioxide emissions and its dependence on oil, bring India into the 'nonproliferation mainstream' and create jobs for U.S. industry. Nonproliferation experts have argued that the potential costs of nuclear cooperation with India to U.S. and global nonproliferation policy may far exceed the benefits. At a time when the United States has called for all states to strengthen their domestic export control laws and for tighter multilateral controls, U.S. nuclear cooperation with India would require loosening its own nuclear export legislation, as well as creating a NSG exception. This is at odds with nearly three decades of U.S. nonproliferation policy and practice. Some believe the proposed agreement undercuts the basic bargain of the NPT, could undermine hard-won restrictions on nuclear supply, and could prompt some suppliers, like China, to justify supplying other states outside the NPT regime, like Pakistan. Others contend that allowing India access to the international uranium market will free up its domestic uranium sources to make more nuclear weapons."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Squassoni, Sharon A.
2006-12-22
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Global Climate Change: Major Scientific and Policy Issues [August 11, 2006]
From the Document: "There is growing evidence that human activities are affecting the heat/energy exchange balance between Earth, the atmosphere, and space through an increase in 'greenhouse gases.' If these gases continue to accumulate in the atmosphere at current rates, most scientists believe significant global warming would continue to occur through intensification of Earth's natural heat-trapping 'greenhouse effect.' Over the past 100 years, particularly in recent decades, there have been measurable increases in global temperature and sea levels, decreases of sea ice in the Arctic, and melting among the world's continental ice sheets and mountain glaciers. Disagreements focus mainly on the magnitude and rate of change, the severity of estimated warming, and its projected impacts - both positive and negative. Moreover, wide variations of scientific opinion accompany model projections of a warmer world: if these increases in greenhouse gas emissions continue, global average temperature could rise anywhere from 2.7oF to 10.7oF over the next 100 years. Because the U.S. economy is so dependent upon energy, and so much of U.S. and worldwide energy is derived from fossil fuels, options for reducing emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases pose major challenges and controversy. This report briefly reviews the status of climate science, international negotiations, and congressional activity focused specifically on climate change."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Fletcher, Susan R.; Justus, John R.
2006-08-11
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India's Nuclear Separation Plan: Issues and Views [Updated December 22, 2006]
From the Summary: "On July 18, 2005, President Bush and Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh announced the creation of a 'global partnership,' which would include "full" civil nuclear cooperation between the United States and India. This is at odds with nearly three decades of U.S. nonproliferation policy and practice. President Bush promised India he would persuade Congress to amend the pertinent laws to approve the agreement, as well as persuade U.S. allies to create an exception to multilateral Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) guidelines for India. India committed to, among other things, separating its civilian nuclear facilities from its military nuclear facilities, declaring civilian facilities to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and placing them under IAEA safeguards, and signing an Additional Protocol. U.S. officials acknowledge the importance of a credible separation plan to ensuring that the United States complies with its Article I obligations under the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty (NPT) - to not in any way assist a nuclear weapons program in a non-nuclear weapon state. For almost 30 years, the U.S. legal standard has been that only nuclear safeguards on all nuclear activities in a state provide adequate assurances. The Administration is apparently asking Congress to back a lower level of assurance by proposing that the separation plan take the place of comprehensive safeguards. Congress is likely to consider this issue as well as others when the Administration eventually submits its cooperation agreement with India for approval by both chambers. P.L. 109-401, signed on December 18, 2006, provides waivers for a nuclear cooperation agreement with India from relevant Atomic Energy Act provisions, and requires detailed information on the separation plan and resultant safeguards. This report, which will be updated as necessary, provides background on India's nuclear fuel cycle, a discussion of various issues involved in separating civilian and military nuclear facilities and potential concerns for Congress as it considers whether the United States has adequate assurances that its nuclear cooperation does not assist, encourage, or induce India's nuclear weapons development, production, or proliferation."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Squassoni, Sharon A.
2006-12-22
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International Crises and Disasters: U.S. Humanitarian Assistance, Budget Trends, and Issues for Congress [December 21, 2006]
From the Summary: "Humanitarian emergencies can emerge anywhere in the world, stemming from natural disasters or man-made conflicts. U.S. and international humanitarian assistance can have an important impact not only on the relief operation itself but on broader foreign policy issues. In the 110th Congress, humanitarian assistance is likely to enjoy continued bipartisan support, with key policy issues focused on budget priorities, levels of funding, and the types of other support available worldwide. The President can provide emergency humanitarian assistance through several sources whose funding is authorized and appropriated by Congress. These are funds appropriated to the Office of Foreign Disaster Administration (OFDA) in the Agency for International Development (USAID); U.S. Department of Agriculture food aid programs under P.L. 480 Food for Peace and Section 416 (b) of the Agriculture Act of 1949; the State Department Emergency Refugee and Migration Account (ERMA) a contingency account that can contain as much as $100 million for assistance to refugees fleeing persecution; and funds appropriated to the Department of Defense, Overseas Humanitarian and Disaster and Civic Aid (OHDACA). This report examines U.S. humanitarian assistance in international crises and disaster situations. It considers the sources of U.S. government aid (including the governmental response mechanism), budget trends in humanitarian assistance, and issues for Congress. It does not specifically address the creation of a new Director of Foreign Assistance position at the State Department or the broader restructuring of U.S. foreign aid programs that are currently under way. The development of the FY2008 budget request will reportedly be a coordinated effort by joint State Department and USAID teams. While programmatic decision-making on refugee and humanitarian assistance may shift under the proposed foreign aid reform, it remains to be seen what affect this will have on existing procedures. This report will be updated as the restructuring initiatives evolve, or if in the meantime, the humanitarian response mechanism within the U.S. government changes."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Margesson, Rhoda
2006-12-21
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U.S. Arms Sales: Agreements with and Deliveries to Major Clients, 1998-2005 [December 15, 2006]
From the Summary: "This report provides background data on United States arms sales agreements with and deliveries to its major purchasers during calendar years 1998-2005. In a series of data tables, it lists the total dollar values of U.S. arms sales agreements with its top five purchasers in five specific regions of the world for three specific periods: 1998-2001, 2002-2005, and 2005 alone, and the total dollar values of U.S. arms deliveries to its top five purchasers in those same regions for the periods 1998-2001, 2002-2005, and for 2005 alone. In addition, the report provides data tables listing the total dollar values of U.S. arms agreements with and deliveries to its top 10 purchasers worldwide for the periods 1998-2001, 2002-2005, and for 2005 alone. This report is prepared in conjunction with the annual CRS [Congressional Research Service] report for Congress entitled: Conventional Arms Transfers to Developing Nations, 1998-2005 (CRS Report RL33696), by Richard Grimmett. That report details both U.S. and foreign arms transfer activities globally, and provides analysis of arms trade trends. The intent here is to complement that elaborate worldwide treatment of the international arms trade by providing only the dollar values of United States arms sales agreements with and delivery values to its leading customers, by geographic region, for the calendar years 1998-2001, 2002-2005, and 2005. Unlike CRS Report RL33696, this report focuses exclusively on U.S. arms sales, provides the specific names of the major U.S. arms customers, by region, together with the total dollar values of their arms purchases or deliveries."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Grimmett, Richard F.
2006-12-15
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Successful Tribal Community Policing Initiatives: A Resource for Communities Developing Public Safety Programs and Strategies
From the Background: "The COPS [U.S. Department of Justice Office of Community Oriented Policing Services] Office introduced the Tribal Resources Grant Program (TRGP) to Indian Country in FY1999. Since the program's inception, the COPS Office has dedicated more than $300 million to TRGP to hire and train community policing officers and purchase new equipment and technology. In FY2008, the COPS Office awarded the Fox Valley Technical College's National Criminal Justice Training Center (NCJTC) a cooperative agreement to provide training and technical assistance to the 75 tribes and agencies awarded TRGP funds that year. NCJTC helped these tribes and agencies enhance community policing by providing the Tribal Community Police Problem-Solving (TTEAMS) training and technical assistance in community policing and other public safety issues. [...] The two-day TTEAMS training course is intended to strengthen relationships between the community and tribal law enforcement agencies. Designed specifically for Indian Country by Native American community policing practitioners, the training brings together tribal leaders, youth, and elders as well as representatives from criminal justice agencies, local governments, social service agencies, educational organizations, and the community. TTEAMS demonstrates how law enforcement and the community can work together in organized problem-solving teams to address key public safety issues such as crime, social disorder, and fear of crime by utilizing the community policing philosophy."
United States. Department of Justice. Office of Community Oriented Policing Services; National Criminal Justice Training Center (NCJTC)
2013-09
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Use and Oversight of the Emergency Caches Were Limited During the First Wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic
From the Executive Summary: "The COVID-19 [coronavirus disease 2019] pandemic has had a major impact on VA's [Department of Veterans Affairs] ability to carry out its missions of providing health care for veterans through the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), and for nonveterans from local communities when needed. The pandemic has increased veterans' need for healthcare services while disrupting the national supply of personal protective equipment that healthcare workers require when treating veterans. To cope with the challenges, VA created and has followed a COVID-19 response plan, which includes drawing on emergency caches (stored reserves) at medical facilities nationwide to address shortages of drugs and medical supplies. [...] The VA Office of Inspector General (OIG) conducted this review to determine how effectively VA managed its emergency caches during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, which emerged in the United States in early 2020. Specifically, the team examined to what degree VA used cache contents and whether the caches were ready to activate. This is an area of particular concern given a 2018 OIG audit of VA's management of the emergency cache program that as part of its findings determined that not all caches were ready to activate if needed because expired or missing drugs hindered the mission readiness of the caches."
United States. Department of Veterans Affairs. Office of Inspector General
2021-06-09
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H. Rept. 117-59: Providing for Consideration of the Bill (H.R. 256) to Repeal the Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Iraq Resolution of 2002; Providing for Consideration of the Bill (H.R. 1187) to Provide for Disclosure of Additional Material Information About Public Companies and Establish a Sustainable Finance Advisory Committee, and for Other Purposes, Report to Accompany H. Res. 473, June 14, 2021
From the Summary of Provisions of the Resolution: "The resolution provides for consideration of H.R. 256, To repeal the Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Iraq Resolution of 2002, under a closed rule. The resolution provides one hour of debate equally divided and controlled by the chair and ranking minority member of the Committee on Foreign Affairs or their designees. The resolution waives all points of order against consideration of the bill. The resolution waives all points of order against provisions in the bill. The resolution provides that the bill shall be considered as read. The resolution provides one motion to recommit. The resolution provides for consideration of H.R. 1187, the Corporate Governance Improvement and Investor Protection Act, under a structured rule. The resolution provides one hour of general debate equally divided and controlled by the chair and ranking minority member of the Committee on Financial Services or their designees. The resolution waives all points of order against consideration of the bill. The resolution provides that an amendment in the nature of a substitute consisting of the text of Rules Committee Print 117-5 shall be considered as adopted and the bill, as amended, shall be considered as read. The resolution waives all points of order against provisions in the bill, as amended."
United States. Government Publishing Office
2021-06-14
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2017 Hurricane Relief Emergency Conservation Program
From the Document: "The Farm Service Agency's (FSA) Emergency Conservation Program (ECP) assists landowners in restoring land used in agricultural production when damaged by a natural disaster. Congress appropriated $400 million to ECP to address damage caused by Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria; wildfires occurring in 2017; and other natural disasters. We found that FSA needs to strengthen its internal controls within the ECP. First, producers are typically required to apply within the signup period to ensure eligibility and identify qualifying damage. However, we found that FSA issued more than $700,000 in ECP payments for 15 of 40 applications without properly documenting concurrence or when FSA should not have concurred with waiving the prior approval rule. Second, we found that, in all four counties we reviewed, district directors did not sufficiently document or timely review ECP applications. Additionally, in three counties, county executive directors did not perform spot checks to verify practice maintenance and cost documentation. As a result, the county committee may have been presented ineligible applications for approval. Additionally, because FSA did not complete spot checks, FSA could not ensure producers completed restoration practices on applications totaling more than $1.9 million. Third, FSA processed cost-share payments for 14 of 40 applications using insufficient documentation, included ineligible costs, or calculated cost-share reimbursements incorrectly. As a result, we identified more than $557,000 potential improper payments. FSA generally concurred with our findings and recommendations, and we accepted management decision for 9 of the 10 recommendations."
United States. Department of Agriculture. Office of the Inspector General
2021-06
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Review of VHA's Financial Oversight of COVID-19 Supplemental Funds
From the Executive Summary: "[T]he VA [Department of Veterans Affairs] Office of Inspector General (OIG) initiated this review to report on efforts by the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) to establish financial oversight mechanisms for tracking and reporting COVID-19 [coronavirus disease 2019] supplemental funding. This review focused on VHA because it received most of the supplemental funding. Of the $19.57 billion in CARES [Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security] Act funding provided to VA, VHA received approximately $17.24 billion for medical care supplemental funds, as well as $60 million from the FFCRA [Families First Coronavirus Response Act], for a total of approximately $17.3 billion. The OIG team reviewed VHA's efforts to establish financial oversight for tracking and reporting on COVID-19 supplemental funding. The team did not assess the effectiveness of VA's or VHA's internal controls for individual obligations and expenditures, nor the reasonableness of each one."
United States. Department of Veterans Affairs. Office of Inspector General
2021-06-10
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U.S. Sentencing Commission Compassionate Release Data Report, Calendar Year 2020
From the Introduction: "As part of its ongoing mission, the United States Sentencing Commission provides Congress, the judiciary, the executive branch, and the general public with data extracted from and based on sentencing documents submitted by courts to the Commission. Data is reported on an annual basis in the Commission's 'Annual Report and Sourcebook of Federal Sentencing Statistics'. The Commission also reports preliminary data for an on-going fiscal year in order to provide real-time analysis of sentencing practices in the federal courts. Since 2005, the Commission has published a series of quarterly reports that are similar in format and methodology to tables and figures produced in the 'Sourcebook of Federal Sentencing Statistics'. The quarterly reports contain cumulative data for the on-going fiscal year (i.e., data from the start of the fiscal year through the most current quarter). From time to time the Commission also reports data regarding other sentencing trends, such as resentencings or other modifications of sentences previously imposed."
United States Sentencing Commission
2021-06
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Selected Documents: 'President Trump Pressure Campaign on Department of Justice'
This document contains the following: "December 14 Emails Related to Allegations of Voter Fraud in Michigan"; "Emails Related to Potential Supreme Court Case to Nullify Election"; "Emails From Assistant AG [Attorney General] Jeffrey Clark and Other DOJ [Department of Justice] Senior Officials"; and "White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows Emails to DOJ Officials." This document is the version as released by the House Committee on Oversight and Reform (HCOR) in their press release: [https://oversight.house.gov/news/press-releases/new-documents-show-trump-repeatedly-pressed-doj-to-overturn-election-results]. A watermark on the document reads "For Internal HCOR Use Only Do Not Distribute."
United States. Congress. House. Committee on Oversight and Government Reform (2007-)
2021-06
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Nuclear Weapons Complex Reconfiguration: Analysis of an Energy Department Task Force Report [February 1, 2006]
"Congress annually funds the nuclear weapons complex (the Complex), those sites that develop, maintain, manufacture, and dismantle nuclear weapons. In hearings held in 2004, the House Appropriations Committee pressed the Secretary of Energy for a systematic review of requirements for the weapons complex over the next twenty-five years. The committee expressed its concern that the Complex is not well suited to the post-Cold War situation, and should reflect presidential decisions on the stockpile as well as issues of cost, security, and Complex size. In response, the Nuclear Weapons Complex Infrastructure Task Force of the Secretary of Energy Advisory Board prepared a report, released in final form in October 2005. The report indicated that the Complex had redundant facilities, security concerns, high cost, excessive competition between the weapons labs, and inadequate equipment for the production plants. To redress these problems, the Task Force proposed restructuring the Complex. It would shift much production and some R&D to a new nuclear production center, probably close one or more plants, contract out some nonnuclear work, shrink the labs, consolidate facilities, and take steps to make governance more effective."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Medalia, Jonathan E.
2006-02-01
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Conventional Warheads For Long-Range Ballistic Missiles: Background and Issues for Congress [Updated March 13, 2006]
"The United States has deployed long-range ballistic missiles as a part of its strategic offensive nuclear forces for more than 40 years. In recent years, analysts both inside and outside the government have suggested that the United States deploy conventional warheads on these missiles. This would provide the United States with the ability to strike promptly anywhere in the world, regardless of the presence of overseas bases or nearby naval forces. The United States could use medium or long-range aircraft or sea-based cruise missiles or ballistic missiles to contribute to the prompt global strike (PGS) mission. However, only long-range ballistic missiles have the range and prompt attack capability needed to strike suddenly at the start of an unanticipated conflict. The Air Force and Navy have both studied the possible deployment of conventional warheads on their long-range ballistic missiles. The Navy sought funding, in FY2003 and FY2004, for research into a reentry vehicle that would be able to maneuver when approaching its target. The FY2007 Defense Budget contains $127 million to pursue the deployment of conventional warheads on Trident missiles. The Air Force is pursuing, with DARPA, research into a number of technologies that might enhance the U.S. long-range strike capability. In particular, it is developing a hypersonic glide vehicle, known as the Common Aero Vehicle (CAV), that could carry conventional munitions and be deployed on modified Minuteman II or Peacekeeper missiles."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Woolf, Amy F.
2006-03-13
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Conventional Warheads For Long-Range Ballistic Missiles: Background and Issues for Congress [February 13, 2006]
"The United States has deployed long-range ballistic missiles as a part of its strategic offensive nuclear forces for more than 40 years. In recent years, analysts both inside and outside the government have suggested that the United States deploy conventional warheads on these missiles. This would provide the United States with the ability to strike promptly anywhere in the world, regardless of the presence of overseas bases or nearby naval forces. The United States could use medium or long-range aircraft or sea-based cruise missiles or ballistic missiles to contribute to the prompt global strike (PGS) mission. However, only long-range ballistic missiles have the range and prompt attack capability needed to strike suddenly at the start of an unanticipated conflict. The Air Force and Navy have both studied the possible deployment of conventional warheads on their long-range ballistic missiles. The Navy sought funding, in FY2003 and FY2004, for research into a reentry vehicle that would be able to maneuver when approaching its target. The FY2007 Defense Budget contains $100 million to pursue the deployment of conventional warheads on Trident missiles. The Air Force is pursuing, with DARPA, research into a number of technologies that might enhance the U.S. long-range strike capability. In particular, it is developing a hypersonic glide vehicle, known as the Common Aero Vehicle (CAV), that could carry conventional munitions and be deployed on modified Minuteman II or Peacekeeper missiles."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Woolf, Amy F.
2006-02-13
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U.S.-India Bilateral Agreements and 'Global Partnership' [Updated March 10, 2006]
"India is enjoying rapidly growing diplomatic and economic clout on the world stage, and the course of its rise (along with that of China) is identified as one of the most important variables in 21st century international relations. In recognition of these developments, U.S. policy makers have sought to expand and deepen U.S. links with India. On July 18, 2005, President George W. Bush and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh issued a Joint Statement resolving to establish a 'global partnership' between the United States and India through increased cooperation on numerous economic, security, and global issues, including 'full civilian nuclear energy cooperation.' Such cooperation would require changes in both U.S. law and international guidelines; the Bush Administration may present to Congress related and required legislative proposals in 2006. On June 28, 2005, the United States and India signed a ten-year defense framework agreement that calls for expanding bilateral cooperation in a number of security-related areas. U.S.-India bilateral agreements in 2005 represent a new set of landmarks in rapidly warming ties between the world's two most populous democracies. A policy of assisting India's rise as a major power has significant implications for U.S. interests in Asia and beyond. The status of U.S. relations with China and Pakistan, especially, is likely to be affected by increased U.S.-India strategic cooperation. Many observers view U.S. moves as part of an effort to 'counterbalance' the rise of China as a major power."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Kronstadt, K. Alan
2006-03-10
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Transnational Organized Crime: Principal Threats and U.S. Responses [March 20, 2006]
"This report examines the growing threat of transnational organized crime to U.S. national security and global stability. The end of the Cold War - along with increasing globalization beginning in the 1990s - has helped criminal organizations expand their activities and gain global reach. Criminal networks are believed to have benefitted from the weakening of certain government institutions, more open borders, and the resurgence of ethnic and regional conflicts across the former Soviet Union and many other regions. Transnational criminal organizations have also exploited expanding financial markets and rapid technological developments. In addition, terrorist networks are believed to be increasingly supporting themselves through traditional crime, and have been linked to criminal organizations. Alliances between the two groups could amplify threats to American security. Transnational criminals engage in a spectrum of illicit activities, including narcotics and arms smuggling, trafficking in persons, counterfeiting, and money laundering and other financial crimes. The report also outlines the U.S. response to international crime. While U.S. policy is framed within the 1998 International Crime Control Strategy, it is also shaped by other more recent federal and agency plans. Agencies heading government efforts include the Departments of State, Defense, Justice, Treasury, and Homeland Security. Key federal programs and initiatives and their interagency coordination are discussed. International cooperation and agreements are vital to U.S. strategy; also, many programs seek to assist and train foreign law enforcement. Finally, this report examines likely Congressional concerns related to U.S. efforts to combat transnational crime."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Wagley, John R.
2006-03-20
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Women in Iraq: Background and Issues for U.S. Policy [Updated March 13, 2006]
From the Summary: "The issue of women's rights in Iraq has taken on new relevance, following the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq in 2003, efforts to reconstruct Iraq, and recent elections for a Transitional National Assembly (TNA). Over the past three years, the Bush Administration has reiterated its interest in ensuring that Iraqi women participate in politics and ongoing reconstruction efforts in Iraq. There has also been a widening debate regarding the extent to which the U.S.-led reconstruction efforts have been able to enhance women's rights in Iraq and encourage their participation in Iraq's governing institutions. According to some observers, political uncertainty, conservative Iraqi culture, and an increase in popular religious activism, has called into question the future involvement of Iraqi women in nation-building and their role in public life. Also, Iraqis, in general, and Iraqi women, in particular, have complained that the volatile security situation and continuing insurgency have contributed to a deterioration in their status. Others note that Iraqi women are making inroads into the political process, citing the example of the January 30, 2005 national election, which resulted in Iraqi women gaining 87 out of 275 seats in the TNA. While Iraqi women captured 31% of Assembly seats, a primary challenge will be the drafting of a new permanent constitution, which some feel must institutionalize the rights of women as equal citizens in the state of Iraq. Another challenge Iraqi policymakers face is how to best ensure Iraqi women are represented in traditionally male-dominated areas such as the judiciary, state ministries, and local government."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Pina, Aaron D.
2006-03-13
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China's Economic Conditions [Updated March 17, 2006]
"China's economy continues to be a concern to U.S. policymakers. On the one hand, China's economic growth presents huge opportunities for U.S. exporters. On the other hand, the surge in Chinese exports to the United States has put competitive pressures on various U.S. industries. Many U.S. policymakers have argued that greater efforts should be made to pressure China to fully implement its WTO commitments (especially in terms of protecting U.S. intellectual property rights) and change various economic policies deemed harmful to U.S. economic interests, such as its currency policy and its use of subsidies to support its state-owned firms. In addition, recent bids by Chinese state-owned firms to purchase various U.S. firms have raised concerns among Members over the impact such acquisitions could have on U.S. national and economic security."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Morrison, Wayne M.
2006-03-17
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U.S. Assistance to the Former Soviet Union [Updated March 16, 2006]
From the Summary: "Since 1992, the United States has provided more than $28 billion in assistance to the 12 states of the former Soviet Union (FSU). It continues to provide nearly $2 billion annually. This report describes the broad framework of U.S. assistance programs and policies in the region and then focuses on the FREEDOM Support Act (FSA) account under the foreign operations budget which, encompassing all U.S. objectives in the region, has often been the means by which Congress has expressed its views and sought to influence policy. Three objectives have been most prominent in the U.S. assistance program to the region - facilitating the transition from authoritarianism to democracy, promoting the introduction and growth of free market economies, and fostering security by controlling the proliferation of nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons and expertise. More recently, a fourth objective, very much encompassing the other three, has emerged - supporting the war on terror. A fifth objective of U.S. assistance, humanitarian relief, was mostly applied in the early 1990s in response to countries experiencing food shortages."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Tarnoff, Curt
2006-03-16
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Uzbekistan's Closure of the Airbase at Karshi-Khanabad: Context and Implications [Updated March 29, 2006]
"In late July 2005, Uzbekistan terminated an agreement permitting U.S. forces to use the Karshi-Khanabad (K2) airbase in the southern part of the country to support coalition military operations in Afghanistan. U.S. forces left the base by late November 2005. Major concerns include whether cooler security ties with Uzbekistan will set back the U.S.-led Global War on Terrorism and other U.S. interests in Central Asia. This report may be updated. Related products include CRS Report RS22161, 'Unrest in Uzbekistan', by Jim Nichol."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Nichol, James P.
2006-03-29
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USA PATRIOT Improvement and Reauthorization Act of 2005: A Sketch [March 28, 2006]
From the Summary: "Several sections of the USA PATRIOT [Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism] Act and one section of the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 were originally scheduled to expire on December 31, 2005; however, Congress extended their expiration date until March 10, 2006. In July 2005, both Houses approved USA PATRIOT reauthorization acts, H.R. 3199 and S. 1389, and the conference committee filed a report accompanying H.R. 3199, H.Rept. 109-333. A separate bill, the USA PATRIOT Act Additional Reauthorizing Amendments Act of 2006 (S. 2271), provides civil liberties safeguards not included in the conference report. Both H.R. 3199 and S. 2271 were signed into law (P.L. [Public Law] 109-177 and P.L. 109-178) by the President on March 9, 2006. The USA PATRIOT Improvement and Reauthorization Act of 2005 (the Act) makes permanent 14 of the 16 USA PATRIOT Act sections scheduled to expire at the end of the year. Among other things, the Act provides for greater congressional and judicial oversight of section 215 Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) business records orders and section 206 FISA roving wiretaps and calls for both sections to sunset at the end of 2009. It establishes judicial review and enforcement procedures for national security letters. The Act expands law enforcement wiretap authority to cover more than 20 federal crimes. It revises federal criminal provisions relating to seaport and maritime security. The Act reinforces federal money laundering and forfeiture authority, particularly in connection with terrorist offenses. It intensifies federal regulation of foreign and domestic commerce in methamphetamine precursors."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Doyle, Charles; Yeh, Brian T.
2006-03-28
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Homeland Security: Protecting Airliners from Terrorist Missiles [Updated February 16, 2006]
"Recent events have focused attention on the threat that terrorists with shoulder fired surface-to-air missiles (SAMs), referred to as Man-Portable Air Defense Systems (MANPADS), pose to commercial airliners. Most believe that no single solution exists to effectively mitigate this threat. Instead, a menu of options may be considered, including installing infrared (IR) countermeasures on aircraft; modifying flight operations and air traffic control procedures; improving airport and regional security; and strengthening missile non-proliferation efforts. Equipping aircraft with missile countermeasure systems can protect the aircraft even when operating in areas where ground-based security measures are unavailable or infeasible to implement. However, this option has a relatively high cost, between $1 million and $3 million per aircraft, and the time needed for implementation does not allow for immediate response to the existing terrorist threat. Procedural improvements such as specific flight crew training, altering air traffic procedures to minimize exposure to the threat, and improved security near airports may be less costly than countermeasures and could more immediately help deter domestic terrorist attacks. However, these techniques by themselves cannot completely mitigate the risk of domestic attacks and would not protect U.S. airliners flying to and from foreign airports."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Bolkcom, Christopher C.; Elias, Bartholomew
2006-02-16
