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Federal Crime Control: Background, Legislation, and Issues [Updated June 12, 2007]
From the Summary: "States and localities have the primary responsibility for prevention and control of domestic crime, while the federal government's role is limited. As crime became more rampant, the federal government increased its involvement in crime control efforts. Over a period of 10 years, Congress passed five major anti-crime bills and increased appropriations for federal assistance to state and local law enforcement agencies. Since the 9/11 terrorist attacks, however, federal law enforcement efforts have been focused more on countering terrorism and maintaining homeland security. Amid these efforts, however, Congress continues to address many crime-related issues. Many have attributed the increased attention the federal government gave to crime issues in the 1980s and 1990s to the rising crime rates. The crime rates, for example, began to increase in the 1960s, peaking in the late 1980s and mid-1990s and began to decline in the late 1990s. The continued decline in the crime rates in the early 2000's coincided with national attention being focused away from domestic crimes and more on securing the homeland against terrorism. During this period, Congress began to focus federal funding on first responders, while funding to state and local law enforcement for traditional crime fighting activities has seen a mix of increases and decreases. In 2005, however, the 'violent' crime rate began to slightly increase and continued to increase in the first six months of 2006. The recent increase in the violent crime rate, however, continues to remain at an over 30 year low."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Seghetti, Lisa M.
2007-07-12
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Homeland Security Advisory System: Possible Issues for Congressional Oversight [Updated January 29, 2008]
"The Homeland Security Advisory System (HSAS), established on March 12, 2002, is a color-coded terrorist threat warning system administered by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The system, which federal departments and agencies are required to implement and use, provides recommended protective measures for federal departments and agencies to prevent, prepare for, mitigate against, and respond to terrorist attacks. DHS disseminates HSAS terrorist threat warnings to federal departments, state and local agencies, the public, and private-sector entities. DHS, however, only provides protective measures for federal departments. This dissemination of warnings is conducted through multiple communication systems and public announcements. HSAS has five threat levels: low, guarded, elevated, high, and severe. From March 2002 to the present, the HSAS threat level has been no lower than elevated, raised to high seven times, and raised to severe once. The first time it was raised to high was on September 10, 2002, due to the fear of terrorist attacks on the anniversary of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. The most recent time it was raised to high was on July 7, 2005, due to terrorist bombings of the London mass transit systems. DHS raised the threat level for mass transit systems only. The only time HSAS has been raised to severe (red) was on August 10, 2006, due to a terrorist plan to bomb flights originating in the United Kingdom. DHS raised the threat level for the aviation sector only."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Reese, Shawn
2008-01-29
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Chemical Facility Security: Regulation and Issues for Congress [Updated June 21, 2007]
From the Summary: "On April 9, 2007, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued an interim final rule (72 'Federal Register' 17688-17745 (April 9, 2007)) on chemical facility security, implementing the statutory authority granted in the Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2007 (P.L. 109-295, Section 550). The regulations require chemical facilities possessing amounts and types of substances considered by the DHS Secretary to be hazardous to notify DHS and undergo a consequence-based screening process. The Secretary then determines which chemical facilities are high-risk, and thus need to comply with additional security requirements. High-risk facilities are to be categorized into tiers based on risk, and those with higher risk must comply with more stringent, performance-based security requirements. Under the interim final rule, high-risk chemical facilities are required to create and submit to DHS a vulnerability assessment; create and submit to DHS a site security plan, addressing the vulnerability assessment and complying with the performance-based standards; and implement the site security plan at the chemical facility. The DHS Secretary is to approve or disapprove each step in the process, and may require the chemical facility to improve the submission or implementation. The interim final rule establishes a new category of protected information, Chemical-terrorism Vulnerability Information (CVI), granting it a status between sensitive but unclassified and classified information. […] Since the statutory authority to regulate chemical facilities expires in 2009, policymakers may choose to observe the impact of the current regulations and, if necessary, address any perceived weaknesses at a later date."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Shea, Dana A.; Tatelman, Todd
2007-06-21
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Highway Bridges: Conditions and the Federal/State Role [August 10, 2007]
From the Summary: "The sudden failure and collapse of the I-35W Interstate System bridge in Minneapolis has raised policy concerns in Congress regarding the condition of the nation's transportation infrastructure in general, and in particular the federal role funding, building, maintaining, and ensuring the safety of roads and especially bridges in the United States. Highway bridges are of particular interest both because of the recent tragedy in Minneapolis and the catastrophic results of a major bridge failure, in terms of loss of life and economic impact. Of the 600,000 public road bridges listed in the National Bridge Inventory, roughly 12%, or 74,000, are classified as structurally deficient. This is, however, roughly half the number classified as deficient in 1990. Given the I-35W collapse, however, even this lower number of deficient bridges leaves Americans potentially exposed to what some might consider an unacceptable level of risk. A policy question is how fast can and should the remaining deficient bridges be replaced or improved. At current annual spending levels, roughly $10.5 billion (2004 dollars at all levels of government), the bridge investment backlog (in dollar terms) would be reduced by roughly half by 2024. Reducing the backlog to near zero during the same period would require an estimated annual spending rate of roughly $12.4 billion (in 2004 dollars). The Emergency Relief Program (ER), administered by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), provides funding for bridges damaged in natural disasters or that were subject to catastrophic failures."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Kirk, Robert S.; Mallett, William
2007-08-10
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American War and Military Operations Casualties: Lists and Statistics [Updated June 29, 2007]
From the Summary: "This report is written in response to numerous requests for war casualty statistics and lists of war dead. It provides tables, compiled by sources at the Department of Defense (DOD), indicating the number of casualties among American military personnel serving in principal wars and combat actions. Wars covered include the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, the Mexican War, the Civil War, the Spanish-American War, World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam Conflict, and the Persian Gulf War. Military operations covered include the Iranian Hostage Rescue Mission, Lebanon Peacekeeping, Urgent Fury in Grenada, Just Cause in Panama, Desert Shield and Desert Storm, Restore Hope in Somalia, Uphold Democracy in Haiti, and the ongoing Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF). For the more recent conflicts, starting with the Korean War, more detailed information on types of casualties, and when available, demographics have been included. This report also cites sources of published lists of military personnel killed in principal wars and combat actions."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Fischer, Hannah; Walker Klarman, Kim; Oboroceanu, Mari-Jana
2007-06-29
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U.S.-China Counterterrorism Cooperation: Issues for U.S. Policy [Updated August 6, 2007]
From the Summary: "After the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, the United States faced a challenge in enlisting the full support of the People's Republic of China (PRC) in counterterrorism. This effort raised short-term policy issues about how to elicit cooperation and how to address China's concerns about military action (Operation Enduring Freedom). Longer-term issues have concerned whether counterterrorism has strategically transformed bilateral relations and whether China's support has been valuable and not obtained at the expense of other U.S. interests. The extent of U.S.-China counterterrorism cooperation has been limited, but the tone and context of counterterrorism helped to stabilize-even if it did not transform-the bilateral relationship pursued by President George Bush. In September 2005, Deputy Secretary of State Robert Zoellick acknowledged that 'China and the United States can do more together in the global fight against terrorism' after 'a good start,' in his policy speech that called on China to be a 'responsible stakeholder' in the world. Congress has oversight over the trend toward closer ties with China as well as a range of policy options. U.S. policy options have included bilateral law enforcement; designations of Uighur groups as terrorist organizations; release of detained Uighurs from Guantanamo Bay prison; weapons nonproliferation; waivers of sanctions for the 1989 Tiananmen crackdown to export security equipment; cooperation in port security; military-to-military contacts; and attention to China's influence on Central Asia through the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO)."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Kan, Shirley
2007-08-06
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Renewable Energy Portfolio Standard (RPS): Background and Debate Over a National Requirement [Updated August 6, 2007]
From the Summary: "Under a renewable energy portfolio standard (RPS), retail electricity suppliers (electric utilities) must provide a minimum amount of electricity from renewable energy resources or purchase tradable credits that represent an equivalent amount of renewable energy production. The minimum requirement is often set as a percentage share of retail electricity sales. More than 20 states have established an RPS, with most targets ranging from 10% to 20% and most target deadlines ranging from 2010 to 2025. Most states have established tradable credits as a way to lower costs and facilitate compliance. State RPS action has provided an experience base for the design of a possible national requirement. RPS proponents contend that a national system of tradable credits would enable retail suppliers in states with fewer resources to comply at the least cost by purchasing credits from organizations in states with a surplus of low-cost production. Opponents counter that regional differences in availability, amount, and types of renewable energy resources would make a federal RPS unfair and costly. […] In House floor action on H.R. 3221, an RPS amendment (H.Amdt. 748) was added by a vote of 220 to 190. The bill subsequently passed the House by a vote of 241 to 172. The RPS amendment would set a 15% target for 2020, and would allow up to 4% of the requirement to be met with energy efficiency measures. […] On the House floor, RPS opponents also contended that biomass power technologies were not yet ready for commercial use and that certain usable forms of biomass were excluded. Proponents acknowledged that there is a need to expand the definition of biomass resources, and offered to do so in conference committee."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sissine, Fred J.
2007-08-06
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War Crimes Act: Current Issues [Updated July 23, 2007]
From the Summary: "The War Crimes Act of 1996, as amended, makes it a criminal offense to commit certain violations of the laws of war when such offenses are committed by or against U.S. nationals or Armed Service members. Among other things, the act prohibits certain violations of Common Article 3 of the 1949 Geneva Conventions, which sets out minimum standards for the treatment of detainees in armed conflicts of a non-international character. Common Article 3 prohibits protected persons from being subjected to violence, outrages upon personal dignity, torture, and cruel, humiliating, or degrading treatment. In the 2006 case of 'Hamdan v. Rumsfeld,' the Supreme Court rejected the Bush Administration's long-standing position that Common Article 3 was inapplicable to the present armed conflict with Al Qaeda. As a result, questions have arisen regarding the scope of the War Crimes Act as it relates to violations of Common Article 3 and the possibility that U.S. personnel may be prosecuted for the pre-'Hamdan' treatment of Al Qaeda detainees. As amended by the Military Commissions Act of 2006 (MCA, P.L. 109-366), the War Crimes Act now criminalizes only specified Common Article 3 violations labeled as 'grave breaches.' Previously, 'any' violation of Common Article 3 constituted a criminal offense. This report discusses current issues related to the War Crimes Act."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Garcia, Michael John
2007-07-23
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Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty: Issues and Arguments [February 28, 2008]
"The Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty would ban all nuclear explosions. It was opened for signature in 1996. As of February 2008, 178 nations had signed it and 144 had ratified. To enter into force, 44 specified nations must ratify it; 35 have done so. The Senate rejected the treaty in 1999; the Bush Administration opposes it. The United States has observed a nuclear test moratorium since 1992. There have been many calls worldwide for the United States and others to ratify the treaty. Many claim that it would promote nuclear nonproliferation; some see it as a step toward nuclear disarmament. Several measures have been introduced in Congress regarding the treaty; it might become an issue in the presidential election. The U.S. debate involves arguments on many issues. To reach a judgment on the treaty, should it come up for a ratification vote in the future, Senators may wish to balance answers to several questions in a net assessment of risks and benefits. Can the United States maintain deterrence without testing? […] Are monitoring and verification capability sufficient? […] How might the treaty affect nuclear nonproliferation and disarmament? […] This report presents a detailed, comprehensive discussion of the treaty's pros and cons from a U.S. perspective. It contains an appendix outlining relevant history."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Medalia, Jonathan E.
2008-02-28
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Cost of Iraq, Afghanistan, and Other Global War on Terror Operations Since 9/11 [Updated February 22, 2008]
"With enactment of the FY2008 Consolidated Appropriations Act (H.R. 2764/P.L. 110-161 on December 26, 2007, Congress has approved a total of about $700 billion for military operations, base security, reconstruction, foreign aid, embassy costs, and veterans' health care for the three operations initiated since the 9/11 attacks: Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) Afghanistan and other counter terror operations; Operation Noble Eagle (ONE), providing enhanced security at military bases; and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF). […] The Administration requested $195.5 billion for war-related activities for DOD, State/USAID and Department of Veterans' Affairs (VA) Medical for FY2008. Thus far, Congress has provided $90.9 billion. […] For FY2009, the Administration has requested about $72.8 billion for war costs including a 'placeholder' DOD war request of $70 billion, $1.5 billion for State Department/USAID foreign and diplomatic operations, and $1.3 billion for VA medical care for OIF and OEF veterans. Details for DOD's request are expected after General David Petraeus makes his recommendations about future troop levels in April. With the pending FY2008 and FY2009 requests, the total for enacted or requested war funding is about $878 billion. […] It is not clear when Congress will take up the pending FY2008 request, including $101.3 billion for DOD war-needs and $3.4 billion for foreign aid and diplomatic operations. […] In February 2008, the Congressional Budget Office projected that additional war costs from FY2009 through FY2018 could range from $440 billion, if troop levels fell to 30,000 by 2010, to $1.0 trillion, if troop levels fell to 75,000 by about 2013. Under these scenarios, CBO projects that funding for Iraq, Afghanistan and the GWOT could reach from about $1.1 trillion to about $1.7 trillion for FY2001- FY2018."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Belasco, Amy
2008-02-22
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Navy Ford (CVN-78) Class Aircraft Carrier Program: Background and Issues for Congress [Updated June 25, 2021]
From the Introduction: "This report provides background information and potential oversight issues for Congress on the 'Gerald R. Ford' (CVN-78) class nuclear-powered aircraft carrier (CVN) aircraft carrier program. The Navy's proposed FY2022 budget requests $2,659.5 million (i.e., about $2.7 billion) in procurement funding for the program. Congress's decisions on the CVN-78 program could substantially affect Navy capabilities and funding requirements and the shipbuilding industrial base."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
O'Rourke, Ronald
2021-06-25
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Supreme Court Dismisses Challenge to the Affordable Care Act in 'California v. Texas' [Updated June 21, 2021]
From the Document: "On June 17, 2021, the Supreme Court issued its decision in 'California v. Texas' [hyperlink], one of the most closely watched cases of this term. At stake in 'California' was the constitutionality of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act's [hyperlink] (ACA's) requirement for individuals to maintain health insurance (known as the 'individual mandate' [hyperlink]) and the continued validity of the remainder of the comprehensive Act. In a 7-2 decision, the Court dismissed the lawsuit on the grounds that the plaintiffs lacked standing to sue. The Court did not reach the merits of the challenge, thereby leaving the ACA intact. This Sidebar provides background on the 'California' case, examines the Court's decision, and concludes with selected legal considerations for Congress."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Liu, Edward C.; Shen, Wen W.; Staman, Jennifer A.
2021-06-21
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U.S.-European Relations in the 117th Congress [Updated June 24, 2021]
From the Document: "Since the end of the Second World War, successive U.S. Administrations and many Members of Congress have supported a close U.S. partnership with Europe. Often termed the 'transatlantic relationship,' the U.S.-European partnership encompasses the NATO alliance, relations with the European Union (EU), and extensive bilateral political and economic ties. Despite periodic tensions over the past 70 years, U.S. and European policymakers have valued the transatlantic partnership as serving their respective geostrategic and economic interests."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Archick, Kristin
2021-06-24
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Russia's Nord Stream 2 Pipeline: Continued Uncertainty [Updated June 25, 2021]
From the Document: "Uncertainty continues to cloud the future of Nord Stream 2, a natural gas pipeline under construction that would increase the amount of Russian natural gas export capacity directly to Germany and on to other European countries, bypassing Ukraine, Poland, and other transit states (Figure 1). Successive U.S. Administrations and Congresses have opposed Nord Stream 2, reflecting concerns about European dependence on Russian energy and the threat of increased Russian aggression in Ukraine. Nord Stream 2 construction was initially suspended in December 2019, after the passage of U.S. legislation establishing sanctions related to the pipeline. At the time, fewer than 100 miles of the approximately 760-mile long pipeline system (consisting of two parallel lines) remained to be laid. Construction resumed in December 2020. In response, the United States has imposed sanctions on several entities and vessels, including five Russian ships identified as engaging in pipe-laying activities. Construction is ongoing, however. Reports indicate that one of two lines of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline system is complete, and construction of the second line may be finished within months. Additional steps, including certification by German authorities, would be required before the pipeline begins to transport gas."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Belkin, Paul; Ratner, Michael; Welt, Cory
2021-06-25
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Ukrainian Armed Forces [June 23, 2021]
From the Document: "In 2014, the Ukrainian military, which observers noted had been weakened by years of neglect and underfunding, faced Russia's occupation of Ukraine's Crimea region and invasion of eastern Ukraine. Since that time, the Ukrainian armed forces have made considerable improvements; they have undertaken efforts to adopt NATO standards and received significant NATO and U.S. assistance. Many of these reforms began out of the experience of defending against Russian aggression. Reforms range from the tactical to the strategic levels and include both political measures (e.g., increasing transparency, countering corruption, and ensuring civilian control over the military) and military reforms (e.g., modernizing equipment, reforming command and control, and increasing professionalization). Significant hurdles remain, however, and the reform process is complicated by Ukraine's Soviet legacy, the continued Russian occupation of parts of Ukraine, and the threat of further Russian aggression. Members of Congress have expressed interest in understanding Ukraine's military capabilities to help guide policymaking to support Ukraine's defense of its territorial integrity and its aspirations for eventual NATO membership."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Bowen, Andrew S.
2021-06-23
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Support for Supply-Chain Resilience of Locally Sourced Foods [June 23, 2021]
From the Document: "Over the past decade, food policy in the United States has responded to ongoing shifts in consumer preferences and producer trends that favor local food systems (including regional and urban food systems). Congress expanded support for a range of programs supporting local food systems in omnibus farm legislation, most recently in the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (2018 farm bill; P.L. 115-334). Congress has provided additional financial support for U.S. agricultural producers, including local food systems, as part of pandemic assistance in response to economic upheaval and agricultural supply chain disruptions related to Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Johnson, Renée
2021-06-23
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Production, Marketing, and Regulation of Hemp Products [June 22, 2021]
From the Document: "Changes enacted in the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (P.L. 115-334; 2018 farm bill) removed long-standing federal restrictions on the cultivation of hemp. Hemp is a form of Cannabis sativa,the same plant as marijuana, grown for non-psychoactive purposes. It is an agricultural crop regulated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). AlthoughUSDA regulates hemp production, the 2018 farm bill explicitly preserved the authority of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA, 21 U.S.C. §§301 et seq.) over certain hemp-derived products."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Johnson, Renée
2021-06-22
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Nuclear Arms Control After the Biden-Putin Summit [June 24, 2021]
From the Document: "After meeting in Geneva on June 16, 2021, President Biden and Russia's President Vladimir Putin released a Joint Statement on Strategic Stability [hyperlink], which outlined their agreement on a path forward for nuclear arms control and risk reduction. In February, the two Presidents agreed [hyperlink] to extend [hyperlink] the New START [Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty] Treaty for five years [hyperlink] beyond its planned expiration on February 5, 2021. This treaty limits deployed long-range strategic nuclear weapons but does not address all types of U.S. and Russian nuclear weapons or other factors that could affect the risk of nuclear escalation or nuclear use. The joint statement addresses future discussions on these issues."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Woolf, Amy F.
2021-06-24
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Navy DDG(X) Next-Generation Destroyer Program: Background and Issues for Congress [Updated June 25, 2021]
From the Introduction: "The Navy's DDG(X) program envisages procuring a class of next-generation guided-missile destroyers (DDGs) to replace the Navy's aging Ticonderoga (CG-47) class Aegis cruisers. The Navy wants to procure the first DDG(X) around FY2028. The Navy's proposed FY2022 budget requests $121.8 million in research and development funding for the program.The issue for Congress is whether to approve, reject, or modify the Navy's FY2022 funding request and emerging acquisition strategy for the program."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
O'Rourke, Ronald
2021-06-25
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Navy Virginia (SSN-774) Class Attack Submarine Procurement: Background and Issues for Congress [June 24, 2021]
From the Introduction: "This report provides background information and issues for Congress on the Virginia (SSN-774) class nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN) program. The Navy has been procuring Virginia-class SSNs since FY1998, and a total of 34 have been procured through FY2021. Since FY2011, Virginia-class boats have been procured at a rate of two per year. The Navy's proposed FY2022 budget requests the procurement of the 35th and 36th Virginia-class boats. A key issue for Congress concerns the SSN force-level goal and procurement rate. Decisions that Congress makes on this issue could substantially affect U.S. Navy capabilities and funding requirements, and the U.S. shipbuilding industrial base."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
O'Rourke, Ronald
2021-06-24
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Overview of the Universal Service Fund and Selected Federal Broadband Programs [Updated June 25, 2021]
From the Introduction: "Efforts to deploy voice telephone service throughout the United States began almost 100 years ago. Starting in the 1990s, these efforts shifted toward the deployment of broadband internet service to homes, schools, and businesses and the provision of infrastructure to support applications such as telehealth and distance learning. These efforts have been supported through various permanent and pilot programs since that time. Further, as a result of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, Congress has become increasingly aware of the issues associated with the lack of broadband access in many places throughout the country. [...] This report summarizes broadband support programs at the following agencies: [1] Federal Communications Commission (FCC), [2] National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), [3] Department of Agriculture (USDA), [4] Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), [5] Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), [6] Department of the Treasury, and [7] Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). This report provides an overview of the agencies named above and summaries of the programs themselves, including new programs created or proposed in response to the pandemic."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Figliola, Patricia Moloney; Rachfal, Colby Leigh; Heisler, Elayne J., 1976- . . .
2021-06-25
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U.S. Funding for International Conservation and Biodiversity [Updated June 25, 2021]
From the Document: "The United States supports international conservation efforts through foreign assistance programs, diplomatic engagement, and other tools. Members of Congress have supported such efforts on a bipartisan basis and have debated the level, scope, prioritization, and potential unintended consequences of U.S. international conservation activities. International conservation efforts focus on protecting species, restoring habitats, and recovering forests, among other things. Multiple federal departments and agencies administer and implement these initiatives, and Congress appropriates funding for them via several annual appropriations laws. Congress has shaped U.S. policy on international conservation through its authorization and appropriation of foreign assistance in part, as well as through its oversight activities."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sheikh, Pervaze A.; Brown, Nick M.; Morgenstern, Emily M. . . .
2021-06-25
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Navy DDG-51 and DDG-1000 Destroyer Programs: Background and Issues for Congress [Updated June 28, 2021]
From the Introduction: "This report presents background information and potential oversight issues for Congress on the Navy's Arleigh Burke (DDG-51) and Zumwalt (DDG-1000) class destroyer programs. The Navy began procuring DDG-51s, also known as Aegis destroyers, in FY1985, and a total of 87 have been procured through FY2021, including two in FY2021. The Navy procured three DDG-1000 class destroyers in FY2007-FY2009 and plans no further procurement of DDG-1000s. The Navy's proposed FY2022 budget requests the procurement of one DDG-51 in FY2022, rather than the two DDG-51s that are called for in FY2022 under the FY2018-FY2022 DDG-51 multiyear procurement (MYP) contract, and that were projected for FY2022 under the Navy's FY2021 budget submission. Procuring a second DDG-51 in FY2022 is the number one item on the Navy's FY2022 Unfunded Priorities List (UPL)--the service's list of programs it would prefer to be funded in FY2022, if additional funding were to become available. A key issue for Congress for the DDG-51 program in FY2022 is whether to fund the procurement of one DDG-51, two DDG-51s, or some other number of DDG-51s (such as zero or three). Other issues for Congress concern the Navy's future force-level goal for large surface combatants (or LSCs, meaning cruisers and destroyers) and how the Navy proposes to transition several years from now from procurement of DDG-51s to procurement of a successor destroyer design now in development called the DDG(X)."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
O'Rourke, Ronald
2021-06-28
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Clean Air Issues in the 110th Congress: Climate Change, Air Quality Standards, and Oversight [Updated October 19, 2007]
"Attention to environmental issues in the 110th Congress focused early and heavily on climate change -- the state of the science, and whether (and, if so, how) to address greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Ten bills had been introduced to establish GHG emission caps as of late September, and hearings on climate change have been held by at least seven committees. Legislation has yet to be marked up, however, in either House or Senate committees. Seven of the ten greenhouse gas bills introduced as of this writing would amend the Clean Air Act, generally establishing a new Title VII to address the issue. Whether or not legislation would amend the Clean Air Act, climate change hearings and markup are among the highest expressed priorities in the coming months for the committees that have jurisdiction over air issues (principally the Senate Environment and Public Works and House Energy and Commerce Committees). Other clean air issues are less likely to be the main focus of attention, but they may be addressed, especially through oversight of Administration actions. […] On April 2, the Supreme Court decided two cases that have broad implications for EPA and state authority to control greenhouse gases and to regulate power plants. In the more sweeping of the two cases, Massachusetts v. EPA, the Court found that EPA has authority under the Clean Air Act to regulate greenhouse gas emissions from new motor vehicles. Other cases involving climate change, clean air standards, and the regulation of power plants are pending at the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals and in a number of federal and state courts. Decisions in these cases may prompt hearings or legislation. […]"
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
McCarthy, James E.
2007-10-19
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Maritime Security: Potential Terrorist Attacks and Protection Priorities [Updated May 14, 2007]
From the Summary: "A key challenge for U.S. policy makers is prioritizing the nation's maritime security activities among a virtually unlimited number of potential attack scenarios. While individual scenarios have distinct features, they may be characterized along five common dimensions: perpetrators, objectives, locations, targets, and tactics. In many cases, such scenarios have been identified as part of security preparedness exercises, security assessments, security grant administration, and policy debate. There are far more potential attack scenarios than likely ones, and far more than could be meaningfully addressed with limited counter-terrorism resources. Clear perspectives on the nature and likelihood of specific types of maritime terrorist attacks are essential for prioritizing the nation's maritime anti-terrorism activities. In practice, however, there has been considerable public debate about the likelihood of scenarios frequently given high priority by federal policy makers, such as nuclear or 'dirty' bombs smuggled in shipping containers, liquefied natural gas (LNG) tanker attacks, and attacks on passenger ferries. Differing priorities set by port officials, grant officials, and legislators lead to differing allocations of port security resources and levels of protection against specific types of attacks. How they ultimately relate to one another under a national maritime security strategy remains to be seen."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Parfomak, Paul W.; Frittelli, John
2007-05-14
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Defense Contracting in Iraq: Issues and Options for Congress [Updated May 16, 2007]
From the Summary: "The Department of Defense (DOD) is the largest agency in the federal government. It obligated nearly $270 billion on contracts for goods and services in FY2005 - an 88% increase over the amount obligated in the year 2000. The growth in DOD spending has been primarily for the acquisition of services. Furthermore, there has been a substantial shift in the types of contracts for troop support services, the size of the contracts, and the lack of effective management control over the administration of the contracts, and the oversight of the contractors. These new contracts have characteristics that make oversight difficult. One factor is that the concept of 'full and open competition ' has been historically the guiding principle by which the federal government has awarded contracts. Yet the majority of contracts for troop support services in Iraq have been awarded on a 'noncompetitive ' or sole-source basis. This report will examine logistical support contracts for troop support services (also known as service contracts) in Iraq, primarily administered through the United States' (U.S.) Army's Logistics Civil Augmentation Program (LOGCAP). Four broad areas will be discussed, including (1) contract administration; (2) contract costs, the development of contract requirements, and the use of no-bid, sole-source contracts, and costs-reimbursement contracts; (3) transparency; and (4) the acquisition workforce."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Grasso, Valerie Bailey
2007-05-16
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FY2008 National Defense Authorization Act: Selected Military Personnel Policy Issues [Updated October 26, 2007]
"Military personnel issues typically generate significant interest from many Members of Congress and their staffs. Ongoing military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan in support of what the Bush Administration terms the Global War on Terror, along with the emerging operational role of the Reserve Components, further heightened interest and support for a wide range of military personnel policies and issues. CRS selected a number of issues considered by Congress as it considers the FY2008 National Defense Authorization Act. In each case, a brief synopsis is provided that includes background information, a comparison of the House-passed provisions and the provisions reported by the Senate Armed Services Committee, if any, and a brief discussion of the issue. Where appropriate, other CRS products are identified to provide more detailed background information and analysis of the issue. For each issue, a CRS analyst is identified and contact information is provided. Note: some issues were addressed in last year's National Defense Authorization Act and discussed in CRS Report RL33571, The FY2007 National Defense Authorization Act: Selected Military Personnel Policy Issues, concerning that legislation. Those issues that were previously considered in CRS Report RL33571 are designated with a '*' in the relevant section titles of this report. This report focuses exclusively on the annual defense authorization process. It does not include appropriations, veterans' affairs, tax implications of policy choices or any discussion of separately introduced legislation."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Best, Richard A.; Burrelli, David F., 1958-; Henning, Charles A.
2007-10-26
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Homeland Security Proposals: Issues Regarding Transfer of Immigration Agencies and Functions [Updated February 3, 2003]
From the Summary: "As the 107th Congress considered the broader question of homeland security and the creation of a Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the issue of where to locate the various immigration and citizenship functions performed by the Department of Justice's (DOJ) Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) and the Department of State's (DOS) Bureau of Consular Affairs posed a distinct set of questions. Congress weighed what immigration functions constituted border security, what were homeland security, and whether those immigration functions that may not have homeland security-related roles should be transferred to the proposed DHS. The debate centered on several options: place all of INS in a newly created DHS under a Border Security and Transportation Division; place INS's enforcement functions in DHS under the Border Security and Transportation Division but leave INS's service function in DOJ under a newly created Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services; place all of INS in DHS in its own Directorate of Immigration Affairs, which would have two separate bureaus for the enforcement and service functions; or place INS's enforcement functions in a DHS Bureau of Border Security and INS's service functions in a DHS Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services - the choice eventually enacted. In addition to the transfer of INS, there had been considerable debate over whether the issuances of visas should remain with the DOS."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Wasem, Ruth Ellen; Seghetti, Lisa M.
2003-02-03
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Tuberculosis: International Efforts and Issues for Congress [October 26, 2007]
"Infectious diseases are estimated to cause more than 25% of all deaths around the world. A number of infectious disease outbreaks over the past decade, such as H5Nl avian influenza and severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), have heightened concerns about how infectious diseases might threaten global security. International air travel and trade have complicated efforts to detect and contain infectious diseases. People could cross borders carrying a highly contagious disease before an infectious agent causes symptoms… The House Foreign Affairs and Senate Foreign Relations Committees passed companion TB bills, Stop TB Now Act (S. 968 and H.R. 1567) to support global TB efforts and authorize $330 million in FY2008 and $450 million in FY2009. They also authorized $70 million and $100 million for anti-TB programs at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in FY2008 and FY2009, respectively. Although Congress voted to increase support for global TB efforts, some Members expressed concern that the additional funds might be provided at the expense of other global health programs. This report discusses some key issues Congress might consider as debate ensues about the proper level and use of global TB funds."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Salaam-Blyther, Tiaji
2007-10-26
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Foreign Language and International Studies: Federal Aid Under Title VI of the Higher Education Act [Updated July 18, 2007]
"Title VI of the Higher Education Act (HEA) -- International Education Programs -- authorizes a variety of grants to institutions of higher education (IHEs) and related entities to enhance instruction in foreign language and area studies (FLAS). This is one of the oldest U.S. Department of Education (ED) programs of support to higher education, having been initiated as Title VI of the National Defense Education Act of 1958. This program reflects the special priority placed by the federal government on FLAS, especially with respect to diplomacy, national security, and trade competitiveness. Interest in HEA Title VI and other federal programs supporting FLAS has increased recently due to concerns regarding terrorism arising from foreign regions which are infrequently included in American postsecondary curricula. […]. There appears to be broad agreement that interaction between American society and people and cultures from throughout the world is increasing steadily, generating national security concerns involving nations large and small. International education advocates argue that since it may be impossible to predict which nations will generate such concern in the future, and substantial time is required to develop the necessary human capital, it is important that ongoing support be provided from some source for instruction in all of the world's significant languages and cultures. However, it may be questioned whether this support should be provided by the federal government, and whether it should be focused on the nation's colleges and universities, on federally operated language schools, or both."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Kuenzi, Jeffrey J., 1965-
2007-07-18
