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• China Naval Modernization: Implications for U.S. Navy Capabilities - Background and Issues for Congress [Updated November 19, 2008]

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  This Congressional Research Service (CRS) report is an update to previous versions. "This report focuses on the implications that certain elements of China's military modernization may have for future required U.S. Navy capabilities. Other CRS reports address separate issues relating to China and China's military. This report is based on unclassified open-source information. For convenience, this report uses the term China's naval modernization, even though some Chinese military modernization efforts that could affect required U.S. Navy capabilities are occurring in other parts of China's military, such as the air force or the missile force. China's military is formally called the People's Liberation Army, or PLA. Its navy is called the PLA Navy, or PLAN, and its air force is called the PLA Air Force, or PLAAF. The PLA Navy includes an air component that is called the PLA Naval Air Force, or PLANAF. China refers to its ballistic missile force as the Second Artillery Force. Further, China's naval modernization has potential implications for required U.S. Navy capabilities in terms of preparing for a conflict in the Taiwan Strait area, maintaining U.S. Navy presence and military influence in the Western Pacific, and countering Chinese ballistic missile submarines. Preparing for a conflict in the Taiwan Strait area could place a premium on the following: on-station or early-arriving Navy forces, capabilities for defeating China's maritime anti-access forces, and capabilities for operating in an environment that could be characterized by information warfare and possibly electromagnetic pulse (EMP) and the use of nuclear weapons."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  O'Rourke, Ronald

  2008-11-19
• India-U.S. Relations [Updated August 12, 2008]

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  This CRS Report discusses India-U.S. relations. "India is in the midst of major and rapid economic expansion. Many U.S. business interests view India as a lucrative market and candidate for foreign investment. The United States supports India's efforts to transform its once quasi-socialist economy through fiscal reform and market opening. Since 1991, India has taken major steps in this direction and coalition governments have kept the country on a general path of reform, yet there is U.S. concern that such movement is slow and inconsistent. India is the world's fourth-largest emitter of greenhouse gases. Congress also continues to have concerns about abuses of human rights, including caste- and gender-based discrimination, and religious freedoms in India. Moreover, the spread of HIV/AIDS in India has been identified as a serious development. See also CRS Report RL34161, India-U.S. Economic and Trade Relations. This report will be updated regularly."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Kronstadt, K. Alan

  2008-08-12
• Data Mining and Homeland Security: An Overview [Updated August 27, 2008]

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  This CRS report discusses data mining and Homeland Security. "Data mining has become one of the key features of many homeland security initiatives. Often used as a means for detecting fraud, assessing risk, and product retailing, data mining involves the use of data analysis tools to discover previously unknown, valid patterns and relationships in large data sets. In the context of homeland security, data mining can be a potential means to identify terrorist activities, such as money transfers and communications, and to identify and track individual terrorists themselves, such as through travel and immigration records [...] As with other aspects of data mining, while technological capabilities are important, there are other implementation and oversight issues that can influence the success of a project's outcome. One issue is data quality, which refers to the accuracy and completeness of the data being analyzed. A second issue is the interoperability of the data mining software and databases being used by different agencies. A third issue is mission creep, or the use of data for purposes other than for which the data were originally collected. A fourth issue is privacy. Questions that may be considered include the degree to which government agencies should use and mix commercial data with government data, whether data sources are being used for purposes other than those for which they were originally designed, and possible application of the Privacy Act to these initiatives."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Seifert, Jeffrey W.

  2008-08-27
• Iraq: Reconstruction Assistance [Updated August 20, 2008]

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  This CRS report covers reconstruction assistance in Iraq. "A large-scale assistance program has been undertaken by the United States in Iraq since mid-2003. To date, nearly $45 billion has been appropriated for Iraq reconstruction. […]. A significant number of reconstruction activities on the ground are completed or ongoing, but security concerns have slowed progress and added considerable expense to these efforts. Reconstruction programs have included the training and equipping of Iraqi security forces; construction of road, sanitation, electric power, oil production, and other infrastructure; and a range of programs to offer expert advice to the Iraqi government, establish business centers, provide school books and vaccinations, finance village development projects, and promote civil society, etc. Reconstruction priorities have changed over time. Allocations within the Iraq Relief and Reconstruction Fund (IRRF), the main U.S. assistance account in the first few years, mirrored shifting events on the ground. However, funds shifted to security and democratization in the period from 2004 to 2006 meant fewer funds available for electric power and water projects. At this time, most infrastructure programs are no longer funded. The key emphases of the aid program are the training of Iraqi forces and programs assisting the development of Iraqi governing capacities and supporting the work of the Provincial Reconstruction Teams (PRTs). The report will be updated as events warrant. For discussion of the Iraq political situation, see CRS Report RL31339, Iraq: Post-Saddam Governance and Security, by Kenneth Katzman."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Tarnoff, Curt

  2008-08-20
• Federal Stafford Act Disaster Assistance: Presidential Declarations, Eligible Activities, and Funding [Updated August 15, 2008]

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  "The Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (the Stafford Act) authorizes the President to issue major disaster or emergency declarations in response to catastrophes that overwhelm state and local governments. Such declarations result in the distribution of a wide range of federal aid to individuals and families, certain nonprofit organizations, and public agencies. Congress appropriates money to the Disaster Relief Fund (DRF) for disaster assistance authorized by the Stafford Act, which is administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). […] At the conclusion of the 109th Congress the Senate inserted Stafford Act amendments into the FY2007 DHS appropriations legislation (H.R. 5441, enacted as P.L. 109-295). These amendments, Subtitle E of Title VI (120 Stat. 1444 - 1457), expand FEMA's authority to expedite emergency assistance to stricken areas, impose new planning and preparedness requirements on federal administrators, and increase federal assistance to victims and communities. […] On July 31, 2008, the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee ordered to be reported H.R. 6658, which would make significant changes in the Stafford Act regarding various issues, including, but not limited to, temporary employees, warning systems, pre-disaster hazard mitigation; the bill also would establish new authorities for existing programs and the funding mechanism. Also, H.R. 2775, reported from the same committee on September 10, 2007, would amend the statute by authorizing the Emergency Management Performance Grant (EMPG) program. Third, the full House approved a bill reauthorizing the Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) program (H.R. 6109). In addition, legislation specific to the administration of Stafford Act provisions in the Gulf Coast (cost-share waivers in H.R. 1591 and cancellation of loan repayment requirements in S. 965) were folded into P.L. 110-28, the U.S. Troop Readiness, Veterans' Care, Katrina Recovery, and Iraq Accountability Act, 2007."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Bea, Keith

  2008-08-15
• Defense Contracting in Iraq: Issues and Options for Congress [Updated August 15, 2008]

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  "This report examines logistical support contracts for troop support services in Iraq primarily administered through the U.S. Army's Logistics Civil Augmentation Program (LOGCAP). LOGCAP is an initiative designed to manage the use of civilian contractors that perform services during times of war and other military mobilizations. […] Congress is concerned about the Federal oversight and management of DOD contracting in Iraq, particularly under LOGCAP. Recent assessments from the Government Accountability Office (GAO), DOD Office of the Inspector General (DOD-IG), and the Special Inspector General for Iraq Reconstruction (SIGIR) reveal a lack of accountability for large sums of money spent for Iraq contracts. Congress is also concerned about contractor insurance premiums through the Defense Base Act (DBA); such premiums comprise significant costs under LOGCAP. […] In 2007, the U.S. Army audited DBA costs under LOGCAP and uncovered rising program costs and wide fluctuations in insurance rates. Another potential issue of congressional interest is a July 2008 GAO report focused on the performance of the Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA). GAO auditors uncovered many improper management practices. As a result, DOD has asked the Defense Business Board to examine these issues and report its findings within 60 days. The Fiscal Year (FY) 2008 Defense Authorization Act (P.L. 110-181) contains provisions that are intended to reduce instances of DOD contract waste, fraud, abuse, and mismanagement. Other provisions require the Secretary of Defense to provide a plan for addressing skill shortfalls in the DOD acquisition workforce; provide for a periodic and independent management review of DOD contracts; prohibit the awarding of sole source contracts and non-competitive grants; and establish a commission on wartime contracting to investigate contracts in Iraq and Afghanistan. The House and Senate versions of their proposed FY2009 Defense Authorization bills contain new provisions that would extend these provisions for all Federal contracting."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Grasso, Valerie Bailey

  2008-08-15
• Berry Amendment: Requiring Defense Procurement to Come from Domestic Sources [Updated August 26, 2008]

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  This CRS report discusses the Berry Amendment"The Berry Amendment requires the Department of Defense (DOD) to give preference in procurement to domestically produced, manufactured, or home grown products, notably food, clothing, fabrics, and specialty metals [...] Some policymakers believe that policies like the Berry Amendment contradict free trade policies, and that the presence and degree of such competition is the most effective tool for promoting efficiencies and improving quality. On the other hand, others believe that key U.S. sectors need the protections afforded by the Berry Amendment. The debate over the Berry Amendment raises several questions regarding the viability of the Berry Amendment, among them: (1) If the U.S. does not produce a solely domestic item, or if U.S. manufacturers are at maximum production capability, should DOD restrict procurement from foreign sources, and (2) to what extent do U.S. national security interests and industrial base concerns justify waiver of the specialty metal restriction? The Gansler Commission has studied the state of defense acquisition and made a number of recommendations, among them loosening some provisions like the Berry Amendment. This report examines the original intent and purpose of the Berry Amendment, legislative proposals to amend the application of domestic source restrictions, as well as options for Congress. The report will be updated as events warrant."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Grasso, Valerie Bailey

  2008-08-26
• Emergency Communications Legislation: Implications for the 110th Congress [Updated August 5, 2008]

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  This CRS report provides an overview of Congressional legislation which relates to emergency communications. More specifically, "since September 11, 2001, successive Congresses have passed legislation regarding technology, funding, spectrum access and other areas critical to emergency communications. These new laws have tended to address specific issues, dealing separately, for example, with interoperability for first responders, improvements in emergency alerts, and 911 call centers. When reviewing emergency communications legislation, whether for oversight or new initiatives, Congress may review the pace of technological convergence and its impact on policies for emergency communications. What once were discrete areas of emergency response are increasingly sharing common technologies. First responders and other emergency workers not only have access to better tools, but also -- by adopting new technologies -- find themselves confronted with the need to rethink their internal organizational structure and the ways that they communicate with external groups."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Moore, L. K. S. (Linda K. S.)

  2008-08-05
• Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Legislation for Disaster Assistance: Summary Data [Updated August 14, 2008]

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  "This report provides summary information on emergency supplemental appropriations enacted after major disasters since 19891. During the 20-year span from FY1989 through the present, Congress appropriated almost $250 billion in constant 2008 dollars. Most of the appropriations were preceded by a presidential request for supplemental funding. The most recent and costly disasters occurred in the summer of 2005 when Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, and Wilma made landfall in Gulf Coast states. Since Hurricane Katrina struck in August of 2005, more than $130 billion has been appropriated for supplemental disaster funding, most of it needed for the recovery from the 2005 hurricanes. Portions of the appropriations were offset by rescinding more than $34 billion in previously appropriated funds, explained in the section titled 'Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, and Wilma.' Prior to FY2005 and the hurricanes, only the terrorist attacks of 2001 led to supplemental appropriations legislation that exceeded $20 billion. Congress appropriated a total of more than $26 billion for disaster assistance in response to the attacks. […] On other occasions, however, disaster funding has been part of larger pieces of legislation that appropriated funds for purposes other than disaster assistance. The most recent supplemental disaster assistance appropriation occurred on June 30, 2008 when the President signed into law H.R. 2642, the Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2008. The statute, P.L.110-252, provides $7 billion in disaster related funding, most of which has been appropriated for disaster relief associated with the 2005 hurricane season."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Murray, Justin; Lindsay, Bruce R.

  2008-08-14
• General Services Administration Prospectus Thresholds for Owned and Leased Federal Facilities [August 20, 2008]

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  This CRS report deals with General Services Administration owned and leased federal buildings and courthouses. "The General Services Administration (GSA) oversees GSA owned and leased federal buildings and courthouses. As part of the authorization process for new construction or leasing proposals, GSA is required to submit for approval a prospectus containing project and cost specifications to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and to House and Senate committees. Funding for authorized real property projects is normally provided through annual appropriations acts. Relatively small projects, however, do not require prospectus approval. Prospectus approval is required for new construction or leases in FY2009 only if the proposals are valued at more than $2.66 million; for projects involving the alteration of leased space, the threshold value is $1.33 million. Thresholds change annually to reflect changing construction costs and market circumstances. Under emergency circumstances, GSA does not need prospectus approval for emergency leases whose terms are not to exceed 180 days. Following recent large-scale disasters, however, GSA has had difficulty leasing space for displaced federal tenants because lessors were not willing to enter into 180-day leases when prospective non-federal tenants were willing to sign longer-term leases. Accordingly, committees in both chambers reported bills in the 109th Congress to extend the terms of emergency leases to five years, but neither house took final action. During the 110th Congress, GSA again proposed increasing the term of emergency leases to five years, but no bills addressing this matter were introduced. GSA may resubmit its proposal during the 111th Congress. This report will be updated as circumstances warrant."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Wellborn, Clay H.

  2008-08-20
• Immigration: The Effects on Low-Skilled and High-Skilled Native-Born Workers [January 29, 2009]

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  The large influx of immigrants in recent decades has led to an equally long, still unresolved debate over their effect on the labor market outcomes of native-born workers. Economic theory posits that an increase in the supply of labor, such as from immigration, will reduce the wages and employment of native-born workers. Studies, utilizing two approaches to test the theory, have produced conflicting results with differing implications for public policy. [...] The report opens with a discussion of how to analyze the impact of immigrants on the pay and job opportunities of native-born workers. It then uses this framework to examine and interpret the empirical literature on the subject. The report concludes with a discussion of policy implications. [...] The concentration of foreign-born workers in certain cities and skill groups led some economists to posit that immigration's greatest impact would be felt by similarly skilled native-born workers living in those areas. Studies thus have compared differences in labor market outcomes between native-born workers who live in high- versus low-immigrant areas and who most often compete for jobs with foreign-born workers; given the composition of the recent immigrant flow, these would be low-skilled U.S. workers. Most inter-area analyses have found scant evidence that foreign-born labor adversely affects the labor market prospects of U.S. workers in general. A few inter-area studies have estimated a slight negative impact on low-skilled natives--who represent a small share of total U.S. employment.

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Levine, Linda (Linda H.)

  2009-01-29
• Assistance to Firefighters Program: Distribution of Fire Grant Funding [February 19, 2009]

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  This is an updated report from the Congressional Research Service on the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program. "The Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program, also known as fire grants or the FIRE Act grant program, was established by Title XVII of the FY2001 National Defense Authorization Act (P.L. 106-398). Currently administered by the Grant Programs Directorate of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the program provides federal grants directly to local fire departments and unaffiliated Emergency Medical Services (EMS) organizations to help address a variety of equipment, training, and other firefighter-related and EMS needs. […] The Fire Act statute was reauthorized in 2004 (Title XXXVI of P.L. 108-375) and provides overall guidelines on how fire grant money should be distributed. […] Ongoing issues in the 110th Congress include how appropriations for fire grants should compare with authorized levels, and to what extent the focus of the program should be shifted towards terrorism preparedness and away from the traditional mission of enhancing basic firefighting needs."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Kruger, Lennard G.

  2009-02-19
• Emergency Alert System (EAS) and All-Hazard Warnings [January 26, 2009]

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  This CRS report discusses the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and All-Hazard Warnings. "The Emergency Alert System (EAS) is built on a structure conceived in the 1950's when over-the-air broadcasting was the best-available technology for widely disseminating emergency alerts. It is one of several federally managed warning systems. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) jointly administers EAS with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), in cooperation with the National Weather Service (NWS), an organization within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The NOAA/NWS weather radio system has been upgraded to an all-hazard warning capability. Measures to improve the NOAA network and the new Digital Emergency Alert System (DEAS) are ongoing. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), working with the Association of Public Television Stations, is implementing a program that will disseminate national alert messages over digital broadcast airwaves, using satellite and public TV broadcast towers. This program, referred to as the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS), is part of the Department's response to an Executive Order requiring the Secretary of Homeland Security to meet specific requirements for an alert system as part of U.S. policy."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Moore, L. K. S. (Linda K. S.)

  2009-01-26
• Transportation and Transportation Security Related Provisions of House and Senate Stimulus Legislation (H.R. 1) [February 17, 2009]

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  From the Summary: "This report discusses the major transportation and transportation security related provisions of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (H.R. 1) as passed by the House on January 28, 2009, and the Senate on February 10, 2009. The report also discusses the major transportation provisions of the conference report on H.R. 1 (H.Rept. 111-16), which was passed by both the House and Senate on February 13, 2009, and signed by President Barack Obama on February 17, 2009."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Kirk, Robert S.; Fischer, John W. (John Werner); Mallett, William

  2009-02-17
• Iraq: Post-Saddam Governance and Security [Updated September 8, 2008]

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  This is an updated report from the Congressional Research Service on the security situation in Iraq and current challenges. "The Administration is claiming success in significantly reducing violence in Iraq to the point where additional U.S. troop reductions can be considered, attributing the gains to a 'troop surge' announced by President Bush on January 10, 2007 ('New Way Forward'). […] The Administration believes that additional 'conditions-based' reductions in U.S. forces, continued building of Iraq's security forces, and likely further political progress in Iraq -- is likely to produce a unified, democratic Iraq that can govern and defend itself and is an ally in the war on terror. The Administration argues that Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki is increasingly recognized as capable, and that Iraqi legislative action in Iraq since the beginning of 2008 represents a substantial measure of the progress on political reconciliation that was envisioned would be facilitated by the surge. However, U.S. disagreements with Maliki's proposed timeline for a U.S. withdrawal have prolonged negotiations on a U.S.-Iraq agreement that would govern the presence of U.S. forces in Iraq beyond December 2008. […] The progress comes after several years of frustration that Operation Iraqi Freedom had overthrown Saddam Hussein's regime, only to see Iraq wracked during 2004-2007 by […] Sunni-Shiite sectarian violence, competition among Shiite groups, and the failure of Iraq's government to equitably administer justice or deliver services. Mounting U.S. casualties and financial […] stimulated debate within the United States over whether the initial goals of the intervention -- a stable, democratic Iraq that is a partner in the global war on terrorism -- could ever be achieved, and at what cost."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Katzman, Kenneth

  2008-09-08
• Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty: Background and Current Developments [Updated September 18, 2008]

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  This is an updated report from the Congressional Research Service on the comprehensive nuclear-test-ban treaty (CTBT), its background, and current issues. "A comprehensive nuclear-test-ban treaty (CTBT) is the oldest item on the nuclear arms control agenda. Three treaties currently bar all but underground tests with a maximum force equal to 150,000 tons of TNT. […] The U.N. General Assembly adopted the CTBT in 1996. As of September 18, 2008, 179 states had signed it; 144, including Russia, had ratified; and of the 44 that must ratify the treaty for it to enter into force, 41 had signed and 35 had ratified. Five conferences have been held to facilitate entry into force, most recently in 2007. In 1997, President Clinton sent the CTBT to the Senate. In October 1999, the Senate rejected it, 48 for, 51 against, 1 present. It is on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee's calendar. It would require a two-thirds Senate vote to send the treaty back to the President for disposal or to give advice and consent for ratification. The Bush Administration opposes the CTBT, adheres to the test moratorium, has not ruled out resumed testing, and has no plans to test. It has reduced the time needed to conduct a nuclear test. Critics raised concerns about the implications of these policies for testing and new weapons. At present, Congress addresses nuclear weapon issues in the annual National Defense Authorization Act and the Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act. Congress considers the Stockpile Stewardship Program (listed as Weapons Activities), which seeks to maintain nuclear weapons without testing. […] Congress also considers a U.S. contribution to a global system to monitor possible nuclear tests."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Medalia, Jonathan E.

  2008-09-18
• Israel: Background and Relations with the United States [Updated September 8, 2008]

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  This is an updated report from the Congressional Research Service on U.S.-Israel relations. "Since 1948, the United States and Israel have developed a close friendship based on common democratic values, religious affinities, and security interests. U.S.-Israeli bilateral relations are multidimensional. The United States is the principal proponent of the Arab-Israeli peace process, but U.S. and Israeli views differ on some issues, such as the Golan Heights, Jerusalem, and settlements. The Bush Administration and Congress supported Israel's 2006 military campaigns against Hezbollah and Hamas as acts of self-defense. The United States and Israel concluded a free-trade agreement in 1985. Israel is a prominent recipient of U.S. foreign aid. The two countries also have close security relations. Other issues in U.S.-Israeli relations include Israel's military sales to China, inadequate Israeli protection of U.S. intellectual property, and espionage-related cases."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Migdalovitz, Carol

  2008-09-08
• Colombia: Issues for Congress [Updated September 12, 2008]

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  This is an updated report from the Congressional Research service on U.S.-Colombia relations. "In the last decade, Colombia -- a key U.S. ally in South America -- has made significant progress in reasserting government control over much of its territory, combating drug trafficking and terrorist activities by illegally armed groups, and reducing poverty. Since the development of Plan Colombia in 1999, the Colombian government, with substantial U.S. support, has stepped up its counternarcotics and security efforts. Congress has provided more than $6 billion to support Plan Colombia from FY2000 through FY2008. Since 2002, Congress has granted the State Department expanded authority to use counternarcotics funds for a unified campaign to fight both drug trafficking and terrorist organizations in Colombia. Proponents of the current U.S. policy towards Colombia point to the inroads that have been made in improving security conditions in Colombia and in weakening the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) guerrillas. Critics argue that, despite these security improvements, U.S. policy has not rigorously promoted human rights, provided for sustainable economic alternatives for drug crop farmers, or reduced the amount of drugs available in the United States. […] Concerns in the 110th Congress regarding Colombia have focused on funding levels and U.S. policy regarding Plan Colombia, U.S. hostages, trade, and human rights. […] While acknowledging the progress that the Uribe government has made in improving security conditions in Colombia, some Members of Congress have expressed concerns about labor activist killings and the parapolitical scandal. These issues came to the fore during consideration of the U.S.- Colombia Free Trade Agreement (CFTA)."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Cook, Colleen W.

  2008-09-12
• Congressional Oversight of Intelligence: Current Structure and Alternatives [Updated September 16, 2008]

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  This is an updated report from the Congressional Research Service on the structure of intelligence and recommendations. "This report first describes the current select committees on intelligence and then the former Joint Committee on Atomic Energy, often cited as a model for a counterpart on intelligence. The study also sets forth proposed characteristics for a joint committee on intelligence, differences among these, and their pros and cons. The report, to be updated as events dictate, examines other actions and alternatives affecting congressional oversight in the field. […] Interest in congressional oversight of intelligence has risen again in the 110th Congress, in part because of the House Democratic majority's pledge to enact the remaining recommendations from the U.S. National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States, commonly known as the 9/11 Commission. […] The commission's unanimous report, covering many issues, concluded that congressional oversight of intelligence was 'dysfunctional' and proposed two distinct solutions. These were: (1) creation of a joint committee on intelligence (JCI), modeled after the defunct Joint Committee on Atomic Energy (JCAE), with authority to report legislation to each chamber; or (2) enhanced status and power for the existing select committees on intelligence, by making them standing committees and granting both authorization and appropriations power. […] Although it did not adopt either of the 9/11 Commission proposals, Congress has pursued other initiatives to change its intelligence oversight structure and capabilities in the 110th Congress. The House altered its arrangements (H.Res. 35), when it created an advisory Select Intelligence Oversight Panel on the Appropriations Committee, a hybrid structure that combines members of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence and the Committee on Appropriations. The Senate has also changed its relationship between appropriations and intelligence and its Intelligence Committee has advanced others in this regard."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Kaiser, Frederick M.

  2008-09-16
• Federal Liability for Flood Damage Related to Army Corps of Engineers Projects [Updated September 4, 2008]

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  "This report examines selected issues of the federal government's liability depending on the mechanism of the levee failures, and analyzes legal defenses available to the federal government. The report uses flood damage related to Hurricane Katrina as an illustration of these legal issues regarding federal liability, but these principles in the analysis generally would apply to flood damage resulting from similar projects. […] The most costly natural disaster ever to hit the United States was Hurricane Katrina. It struck land on August 29, 2005, as a Category 3 hurricane. The damage to New Orleans from the hurricane was largely not the result of wind, but water -- with 80% of New Orleans under water. In June 2008, continuous heavy precipitation caused severe flooding in seven midwestern states after numerous levees along the Mississippi River were breached. In the wake of these major flood events and levee breaches, the issue of federal liability for flood damage is getting attention in the media and in Congress. After Katrina, lawsuits were filed against the federal government claiming that the levees and floodwalls designed and constructed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) failed to protect the city. To succeed in these lawsuits, the litigants first must show that the federal government is not immune from suit. One source of government immunity is the federal government's exemption under the Federal Tort Claims Act for actions that constitute a discretionary function. A second source of immunity for the government is the Flood Control Act of 1928, which prevents the government from being sued for damages resulting from federally supported damage reduction projects or flood waters. Only after those two issues are resolved would the federal government's negligence be reviewed."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  2008-09-04
• U.S. Financial Crisis: Lessons From Japan [May 4, 2009]

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  "Although the current global financial crisis is much more than Japan's 'Great Recession' writ large, many have turned to Japan's experience to either support or oppose various policies and to improve general understanding of the underlying forces of financial crises. […]. Fiscal stimulus did have the desired economic effect in Japan, but it mainly substituted for depressed bank lending and consumer spending. Recovery had to wait until the balance sheets of banks and households had been rehabilitated. Japan also shifted its policy focus toward reducing its fiscal deficit 'too early' after authorities thought the recession had ended in 1996. The ensuing increase in taxes along with reduced fiscal stimulus (along with the 1997-98 Asian Financial Crisis) pushed the economy back into recession. In monetary policy, the Bank of Japan's zero-interest rate policy demonstrated the futility of attempting to induce investment and consumer credit purchases through low borrowing rates. The Japanese experience also may be instructive in resolving problems of companies that technically are bankrupt but are being kept alive through outside financial support and in dealing with nationalization and subsequent privatization of insolvent banks. . […]. Overcoming the crisis in Japan's banks took a combination of capital injections, new laws and regulations, stronger oversight, a reorganization of the banking sector, moderate economic recovery, and several years of banks working off their non-performing loans."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Nanto, Dick Kazuyuki

  2009-05-04
• Assistance to Firefighters Program: Distribution of Fire Grant Funding [Updated September 22, 2008]

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  This is an updated report from the Congressional Research Service on the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program. "The Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program, also known as fire grants or the FIRE Act grant program, was established by Title XVII of the FY2001 National Defense Authorization Act (P.L. 106-398). Currently administered by the Grant Programs Directorate of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the program provides federal grants directly to local fire departments and unaffiliated Emergency Medical Services (EMS) organizations to help address a variety of equipment, training, and other firefighter-related and EMS needs. […] The Fire Act statute was reauthorized in 2004 (Title XXXVI of P.L. 108-375) and provides overall guidelines on how fire grant money should be distributed. […] Ongoing issues in the 110th Congress include how appropriations for fire grants should compare with authorized levels, and to what extent the focus of the program should be shifted towards terrorism preparedness and away from the traditional mission of enhancing basic firefighting needs."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Kruger, Lennard G.

  2008-09-22
• U.S.-Russia Meat and Poultry Trade Issues [September 11, 2008]

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  "Russia announced on August 29, 2008, that it was banning poultry imports from 19 U.S. establishments due to safety concerns, and that 29 others could lose approval if they do not improve their standards. Russian officials also signaled that they might reduce U.S. permits to import poultry and pork under that country's quota system. The economic stakes of Russian import actions are high for U.S. poultry producers--29% of their exports went to that market in 2007--and red meat producers, who also are experiencing strong growth in the Russian market. In Congress, any potential options likely would be reviewed within the context of the broader geopolitical situation."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Becker, Geoffrey S.

  2008-09-11
• China Naval Modernization: Implications for U.S. Navy Capabilities-Background and Issues for Congress [July 17, 2009]

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  From the report: "In the debate over future U.S. defense spending, including deliberations taking place in the current Quadrennial Defense Review (QDR), a key issue is how much emphasis to place on programs for countering improved Chinese military forces in coming years. Observers disagree on the issue, with some arguing that such programs should receive significant emphasis, others arguing that they should receive relatively little, and still others taking an intermediate position. The question of how much emphasis to place in U.S. defense planning on programs for countering improved Chinese military forces is of particular importance to the U.S. Navy, because many programs associated with countering improved Chinese military forces would fall within the Navy's budget."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  O'Rourke, Ronald

  2009-07-17
• First Responder Network and Next-Generation Communications for Public Safety: Issues for Congress [August 7, 2012]

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  "Since September 11, 2001, when communications failures contributed to the tragedies of the day, Congress has passed several laws intended to create a nationwide emergency communications capability. Yet the United States has continued to strive for a solution that assures seamless communications among first responders and emergency personnel at the scene of a major disaster. To address this problem, Congress included provisions in the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 (P.L. 112-96) for planning, building, and managing a new, nationwide, broadband network for public safety communications, and assigned additional spectrum to accommodate the new network. In addition, the act has designated federal appropriations of over $7 billion for the network and other public safety needs. These funds will be provided through new revenue from the auction of spectrum licenses. […] Many experts are concerned that these delays may place public safety officials at a disadvantage in negotiating with potential partners, increase costs, and add further delays in moving forward to build a nationwide broadband network. Requirements in the act for standards development may be insufficient to overcome current technical obstacles for desired network features such as roaming between public safety and commercial networks. In addition to monitoring progress in building the new broadband network for public safety, Congress may want to consider new policies for spectrum management and wireless innovation that would facilitate the transition to IP-enabled networks. Acceleration of innovation in next-generation wireless technologies would likely benefit not only public safety communications but also all consumers of wireless service and the American economy."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Moore, L. K. S. (Linda K. S.)

  2012-08-07
• Speech or Debate Clause: Constitutional Background and Recent Developments [August 8, 2012]

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  "Members of Congress have immunity for their legislative acts under Article I, Section 6, clause 1, of the Constitution, which provides in part that 'for any speech or debate in either House, [Senators and Representatives] shall not be questioned in any other place.' Even if their actions are within the scope of the Speech or Debate Clause or some other legal immunity, Members of Congress remain accountable to the house of Congress in which they serve and to the electorate. In cases in which the Clause applies, the immunity is absolute and cannot be defeated by an allegation of an improper purpose or motivation. When applicable, the Clause provides both immunity from liability (in civil and criminal proceedings) and a complimentary evidentiary privilege. […] In 2011, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals also weighed in on how to apply the Clause to executive branch criminal investigations of Members. In that case, Representative Richard Renzi was accused of agreeing to support legislation in exchange for a private land purchase agreement benefitting one of his creditors. He was indicted on numerous criminal counts, including extortion and fraud, which he challenged on Speech or Debate Clause grounds. The appeals court determined that his challenged actions were not covered by the Clause. Additionally, the Ninth Circuit appeared to split with the D.C. Circuit analysis in Representative Jefferson's case on whether the Clause prevents the executive branch from ever viewing protected evidence. This report examines the constitutional background of the Speech or Debate Clause and these recent developments in jurisprudence. It will be updated as events warrant."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Dolan, Alissa M.; Garvey, Todd

  2012-08-08
• Iran's Nuclear Program: Tehran's Compliance with International Obligations [July 23, 2012]

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  "In 2002, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) began investigating allegations that Iran had conducted clandestine nuclear activities. Ultimately, the agency reported that some of these activities had violated Tehran's IAEA safeguards agreement. The IAEA has not stated definitively that Iran has pursued nuclear weapons, but has also not yet been able to conclude that the country's nuclear program is exclusively for peaceful purposes. The IAEA Board of Governors referred the matter to the U.N. Security Council in February 2006. Since then, the council has adopted six resolutions, the most recent of which (Resolution 1929) was adopted in June 2010. […] Iran and the IAEA agreed in August 2007 on a work plan to clarify the outstanding questions regarding Tehran's nuclear program. Most of these questions have essentially been resolved, but then-IAEA Director-General Mohamed ElBaradei told the agency's board in June 2008 that the agency still has questions regarding 'possible military dimensions to Iran's nuclear programme.' The IAEA has reported for some time that it has not been able to make progress on these matters. This report provides a brief overview of Iran's nuclear program and describes the legal basis for the actions taken by the IAEA board and the Security Council. It will be updated as events warrant."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Kerr, Paul K.

  2012-07-23
• How to Develop and Write a Grant Proposal [June 9, 2009]

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  "This report is intended for Members and staff assisting grant seekers in districts and states, and it includes writing proposals for both government and private foundations grants. In preparation for writing a proposal, the report first discusses preliminary information gathering and preparation, developing ideas for the proposal, gathering community support, identifying funding resources, and seeking preliminary review of the proposal and support of relevant administrative officials. The second section of the report covers the actual writing of the proposal, from outlining of project goals, stating the purpose and objectives of the proposal, explaining the program methods to solve the stated problem, and how the results of the project will be evaluated, to long-term project planning, and, finally, developing the proposal budget. The last section of the report includes a listing of free grants-writing websites, some in Spanish as well as English, including the Foundation Center's Proposal Writing Short Course."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Gerli, Merete F.

  2007-07-09
• Gun Control Legislation [August 3, 2012]

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  "Congress has debated the efficacy and constitutionality of federal regulation of firearms and ammunition, with strong advocates arguing for and against greater gun control. In the wake of the July 20, 2012, Aurora, CO, theater mass shooting, in which 12 people were shot to death and 58 wounded (7 of them critically) by a lone gunman, it is likely that there will be calls in the 112th Congress to reconsider a 1994 ban on semiautomatic assault weapons and large capacity ammunition feeding devices that expired in September 2004. There were similar calls to ban such feeding devices (see S. 436/H.R. 1781) following the January 8, 2011, Tucson, AZ, mass shooting, in which 6 people were killed and 14 wounded, including Representative Gabrielle Giffords, who was grievously wounded. […] This report also includes discussion of other salient and recurring gun control issues that have generated past or current congressional interest. Those issues include (1) screening firearms background check applicants against terrorist watch lists, (2) combating gun trafficking and straw purchases, (3) reforming the regulation of federally licensed gun dealers, (4) requiring background checks for private firearms transfers at gun shows, (5) more-strictly regulating certain firearms previously defined in statute as 'semiautomatic assault weapons,' and (6) banning or requiring the registration of certain long-range .50 caliber rifles, which are commonly referred to as 'sniper' rifles. To set these and other emerging issues in context, this report provides basic firearms-related statistics, an overview of federal firearms law, and a summary of legislative action in the 111th and 112th Congresses."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Krouse, William J.

  2012-08-03
• Post Office and Retail Postal Facility Closures: Overview and Issues for Congress [July 23, 2009]

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  "In common parlance, 'post office' is used to refer to a wide variety of facilities operated by the United States Postal Service (USPS). […] Regarding one category of its facilities, the USPS announced in May 2009 that it was considering the closure of 3,105 of its 4,851 post office branches and stations. […]Since the original announcement, the USPS has indicated that the number of possible closures may be more than 3,200. This report provides (1) information on this recent announcement; (2) historical data on the number of post offices and other retail postal facilities; (3) an explanation of the legal authorities relevant to retail postal facility closures; (4) a review of the retail postal facility closure processes, including data on public appeals of closures, and H.R. 658's proposed alterations to the processes; and (5) a concluding discussion that suggests observations and possible issues for Congress."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Kosar, Kevin R.

  2009-07-23