[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 198 (Tuesday, December 20, 2022)]
[Senate]
[Pages S8553-S9323]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   EXPLANATORY STATEMENT SUBMITTED BY MR. LEAHY, CHAIR OF THE SENATE 
    COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS, REGARDING H.R. 2617, CONSOLIDATED 
                        APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2023

  The following is an explanation of the Consolidated Appropriations 
Act, 2023.
                                 ______
                                 
       DIVISION F--DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY APPROPRIATIONS 
     ACT, 2023
       The following is an explanation of Division F, which makes 
     appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) 
     for fiscal year 2023. Funding provided in this agreement 
     sustains existing programs that protect the nation from all 
     manner of threats and ensures DHS's ability to improve 
     preparedness at the federal, state, local, tribal, and 
     territorial levels; prevent and respond to terrorist attacks; 
     and hire, train, and equip DHS frontline personnel protecting 
     the country.
       The joint explanatory statement (JES) accompanying this 
     division indicates congressional intent. Unless otherwise 
     specifically noted in this JES, directives set forth in House 
     Report 117-396 carry the same weight as those included in the 
     JES. While some directives from the House report may be 
     repeated in the JES for emphasis, this should not be 
     interpreted as establishing other directives from the House 
     report as lesser priorities.
       References in the JES to ``the Committees'' or ``the 
     Committees on Appropriations'' should be interpreted as both 
     the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security 
     and the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland 
     Security.
       This JES refers to certain entities, persons, funds, and 
     documents as follows: the Department of Homeland Security is 
     referenced as DHS or the Department; the Government 
     Accountability Office is referenced as GAO; and the Office of 
     Inspector General of the Department of Homeland Security is 
     referenced as OIG. In addition, ``full-time equivalents'' are 
     referred to as FTE; ``full-time positions'' are referenced as 
     FTP; ``Information Technology'' is referred to as IT; 
     ``program, project, and activity'' is referred to as PPA; any 
     reference to ``the Secretary'' should be interpreted to mean 
     the Secretary of Homeland Security; ``component'' should be 
     interpreted to mean an agency, administration, or directorate 
     within DHS; any reference to SLTT should be interpreted to 
     mean state, local, tribal, and territorial governments; and 
     ``budget request'' or ``the request'' should be interpreted 
     to mean the budget of the U.S. Government for fiscal year 
     2023 that was submitted to Congress on March 28, 2022.

TITLE I--DEPARTMENTAL MANAGEMENT, INTELLIGENCE, SITUATIONAL AWARENESS, 
                             AND OVERSIGHT

            Office of the Secretary and Executive Management


                         OPERATIONS AND SUPPORT

       The agreement includes an increase of $45,566,000 above the 
     budget request, including program increases above the request 
     of $365,000 for the Office of Legislative Affairs (OLA); 
     $10,414,000 for the Office of Strategy, Policy, and Plans; 
     $22,266,000 for the Office of Health Security; $7,157,000 for 
     the Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties (CRCL); 
     $7,311,000 for the Office of the Immigration Detention 
     Ombudsman (OIDO); and $2,256,000 for the Office of 
     Partnership and Engagement (OPE). Within the total amount 
     provided, $18,862,000 is made available for two fiscal years, 
     including $14,862,000 for the Office of Health Security and 
     $4,000,000 for OIDO. The bill does not provide the requested 
     transfer of the Office for Faith-Based and Neighborhood 
     Partnerships into OPE from the Federal Emergency Management 
     Agency and does not include the requested transfer of the 
     Blue Campaign out of OPE to U.S. Immigration and Customs 
     Enforcement (ICE).

                        Management and Oversight

       Caseloads and Staffing.--Within 90 days of the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Office of General Counsel (OGC) 
     shall brief the Committees on the current average caseload 
     per attorney, along with staffing levels, goals, and 
     requirements by division.
       Joint Requirements Council (JRC).--The Office of the 
     Secretary is directed to continue to provide quarterly 
     briefings on the JRC, which shall include--at a minimum--the 
     identification of specific accomplishments for the preceding 
     quarter, particularly those that have resulted in resource 
     realignment.
       Management Directive 0810.1.--Division F of the explanatory 
     statement accompanying Public Law 117-103 directed the 
     Secretary to review Management Directive 0810.1 to ensure the 
     Department has clearly delineated roles and responsibilities 
     for each of its oversight bodies, while also preserving the 
     independence and authorities of the DHS Office of the 
     Inspector General (OIG); to brief the Committees not later 
     than 90 days after the date of enactment of that Act on the 
     interim findings of the review; and to issue a revised 
     directive, as warranted by the review, not later than 180 
     days after the date of enactment of this Act. The Department 
     is directed to immediately comply with the overdue 
     requirements of this directive.

                 Office of Strategy, Policy, and Plans

       Advance Requests for Protection.--Within 180 days of the 
     date of enactment of this Act, the Office of Strategy, 
     Policy, and Plans (OSPP), in consultation with the State 
     Department, shall submit to the Committees an assessment of 
     the United for Ukraine program and the factors to be 
     considered in any effort to apply related methods more 
     broadly.
       Biometric Exit.--Not later than 30 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the OSPP is directed to provide an 
     expenditure plan for H-1B and L-1 fee revenue and any other 
     resources to be applied to biometric exit implementation. Not 
     later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, 
     OSPP shall brief the Committees on its ongoing efforts to 
     address entry and exit data collection and exchange in the 
     air, land, and sea border environments.
       Border-Related Data and Transparency.--Within 30 days of 
     the date of enactment of this Act and quarterly thereafter, 
     the Department, in consultation with other appropriate 
     federal officials, shall submit to the Committees sector 
     level, monthly apprehension data and estimates of the numbers 
     of ``turn backs'' and ``got aways,'' as defined by section 
     223 of title 6, United States Code. In addition, CBP is 
     directed to ensure a review by third party statistical 
     experts on the current process, assumptions, and formulas 
     used to derive ``got away'' estimates and any proposed 
     changes to improve them, including any proposed changes to 
     statutory definitions. CBP shall provide the Committees with 
     the findings and recommendations from the review, including a 
     description of any steps the agency plans to take based on 
     them.
       Charging Document Backlog.--Within 30 days of the date of 
     enactment of this Act, OSPP shall provide to the Committees a 
     plan to avoid the release of noncitizens into the

[[Page S8554]]

     interior of the United States without valid charging 
     documents, as well as a plan to decrease the ICE backlog for 
     issuing charging documents, which shall include any necessary 
     resource requirements.
       Detention Report.--The Department is reminded of the 
     reporting requirement pursuant to section 1386(b) of title 8, 
     United States Code, which should be submitted to the 
     Committees on the Judiciary and Appropriations of the Senate 
     and House of Representatives not later than 180 days after 
     the date of enactment of this Act.
       Family Separation-Extended Families.--The Department shall 
     continue to follow the directives under this subject heading 
     in the explanatory statement accompanying the fiscal year 
     2022 Act (Public Law 117-103) according to the previously 
     directed timeframes, reporting requirements and other 
     required actions.
       Family Separation and Reunification.--The Department shall 
     continue to follow the directives under this subject heading 
     in the explanatory statement accompanying the fiscal year 
     2022 Act (Public Law 117-103) according to the previously 
     directed timeframes, reporting requirements and other 
     required actions.
       Human Trafficking and Child Exploitation.--OSPP is directed 
     to brief the Committees semiannually on department-wide 
     efforts to combat human trafficking and child exploitation 
     and to continue to provide the study required in the 
     Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act of 2008 
     (Public Law 110-457).
       Informational Report on Departmental Inspections.--Within 
     180 days of the date of enactment of this Act, OSPP is 
     directed to produce a report that examines and summarizes the 
     roles, responsibilities, and scope of work of all 
     departmental entities that engage in detention oversight, 
     including within components. The report shall include all 
     Memoranda of Understanding currently in place concerning the 
     scope, roles, and responsibilities related to detention 
     oversight for all departmental entities, including all 
     relevant citations to each entity's authority.
       Law Enforcement Support.--Not later than 45 days after the 
     date of enactment of this Act, and quarterly thereafter, the 
     Secretary shall make available a report on a publicly 
     accessible website that includes data on requests to any law 
     enforcement component of the Department of Homeland Security 
     for law enforcement support in the form of personnel, 
     aircraft, or other assets. The Department is directed to 
     continue to work with the Committees on the format and 
     content of the report as described in the explanatory 
     statement accompanying division F of Public Law 117-103.
       Messaging Impacts on Irregular Migration.--Within 60 days 
     of the date of enactment of this Act, OSPP shall brief the 
     Committees on its messaging efforts to discourage irregular 
     migration to the United States, including an assessment on 
     the efficacy of various messaging strategies and media.
       Migration Analysis Center (MAC).--The agreement includes an 
     increase of $6,514,000 above the request for MAC, of which 
     $5,499,000 is to restore and annualize the cost of funding 
     provided in fiscal year 2022 to establish the MAC and 
     $1,015,000 is for an additional enhancement, including for 
     additional FTE. OSPP is directed to ensure that funding and 
     personnel resources for the MAC are clearly described in 
     future budget requests.
       Office of Immigration Statistics (OIS).--The agreement 
     includes $3,900,000 above the request for OIS to address an 
     increasing workload and to establish a new Office of Homeland 
     Security Statistics (OHSS) that will operate as an 
     independent statistical unit. Not later than 120 days after 
     the date of enactment of this Act, the Department shall 
     provide a briefing to the Committees on an obligation plan 
     for the OHSS and anticipated milestones for independent 
     reporting on the Department's immigration activities and for 
     its planned expansion to other homeland security data 
     domains. The briefing shall also address the role of the DHS 
     Statistical Official in overseeing the Department's 
     statistical reporting standards and ensuring consistency in 
     the Department's public reporting.
       Parole Requests.--Division F of the explanatory statement 
     accompanying Public Law 117-103 directed the Department to 
     provide quarterly reports on the number of parole requests 
     received and granted, and for those granted, the rationale 
     for each grant and its duration. The reports shall delineate 
     requests received and granted by entity, including ICE, CBP, 
     and USCIS. The Department shall continue to work with the 
     Committees to begin providing all the required data in a 
     satisfactory and timely manner.
       Records Management.--The Department is expected to maintain 
     records and respond to records requests according to the 
     requirements of section 552 of title 5, United States Code, 
     for information related to all detainees in the custody of 
     the Department, regardless of whether such detainees are 
     housed in a federal or non-federal detention facility. 
     Records should only be withheld from disclosure if the 
     Department can reasonably foresee that disclosure would harm 
     an interest protected by an exemption described in section 
     552(b) of title 5, United States Code, or is otherwise 
     prohibited by law.
       Small Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (sUAS).--Until national 
     security requirements for procuring sUAS are in place, no 
     funds in this Act shall be used to procure sUAS without a 
     certification of review of the industry alert and any 
     subsequent UAS guidance and the completion of a risk 
     assessment that considers the proposed use of foreign-made 
     UAS. OSPP is directed to continue to review domestically 
     produced sUAS alternatives and update guidance as 
     appropriate.
       Southwest Border Security and Preparedness.--On April 26, 
     2022, the Secretary issued a Department-wide plan to manage 
     an unprecedented number of noncitizens crossing the southwest 
     border while continuing to secure the border, including 
     through interdicting narcotics and other illicit goods. 
     Within 120 days of the date of enactment of this Act, OSPP is 
     directed to report on the status of implementing the plan, 
     including changes in processing, transportation, holding, and 
     medical services capacities. The report shall include a 
     detailed accounting of the funding supporting implementation 
     of the plan and a description of related partnerships with 
     other federal agencies, state and local governments, foreign 
     governments, and nongovernmental organizations providing 
     services in support of the plan.
       Tribal Consultation.--Within 180 days of the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Department shall consult and work 
     with Tribes to improve the mandatory base level training 
     course for Department personnel, including contractors, who 
     regularly interact with tribal members or are likely to 
     encounter tribal members at their duty station.
       Women in Law Enforcement.--Within 90 days of the date of 
     enactment of this Act, OSPP shall brief the Committees on 
     efforts to recruit and retain women in law enforcement across 
     the Department. At a minimum, the briefing shall include an 
     overview of current efforts, by component, along with base 
     funding for such efforts; an assessment of the success of 
     current efforts, including the metrics used by fiscal year; 
     and the current percentage of women in law enforcement 
     positions, by component, including the percentage in 
     executive and supervisory positions. In addition, the 
     briefing shall identify planned recruitment and retention 
     efforts by component for fiscal years 2023 and 2024; any 
     unmet funding requirements for improving those efforts, by 
     component and with comparisons to similar efforts by other 
     federal law enforcement agencies, including the Department of 
     Justice; and recommendations, by component, for new or 
     expanded programs or efforts.
       Visa Overstays.--Consistent with section 1376 of title 8, 
     United States Code, the Department is directed to submit an 
     updated report outlining its comprehensive strategy for 
     overstay enforcement and deterrence not later than 180 days 
     after the date of enactment of this Act. The report shall 
     detail ongoing actions to identify aliens who have overstayed 
     their visas, including efforts to improve overstay reporting 
     capabilities; notify aliens in advance of their 
     required departure dates; track overstays for enforcement 
     action; refuse or revoke current and future visas and 
     travel authorization; and otherwise deter violations or 
     take enforcement action.

                       Operations and Engagement

       Blue Campaign.--The Department is directed to account for 
     and propose full direct funding for program operations in the 
     justification materials that accompany future budget 
     submissions. Any transfer of funds to the Center for 
     Combatting Human Trafficking from OSEM or any other account 
     requires a notification under section 503(c) of this Act.
       External Communication--Within 90 days of the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Department shall brief the 
     Committees on options for strengthening external 
     communications and engagement within OSEM, including 
     communications and information sharing with the Committees. 
     The briefing shall include an analysis of whether the current 
     alignment of external facing offices in OSEM creates 
     stovepipes and hurdles to clear communication related to the 
     Department's operations. The briefing shall include 
     recommended options to consolidate and realign external 
     facing offices and assess how that will support more 
     comprehensive and accurate engagement and communications.
       Office of Civil Rights and Civil Liberties (CRCL).--The 
     agreement includes an increase of $7,157,000 above the 
     request, including an increase of $250,000 for management and 
     administration of the Alternatives to Detention (ATD) Case 
     Management Pilot Program (CMPP); $4,901,000 to restore and 
     annualize enhancements in the fiscal year 2022 funding Act 
     for ATD-CMPP administration ($750,000), Women, Peace, and 
     Security Act implementation ($580,000), and CRCL staffing 
     ($3,571,000); and $2,006,000 to restore proposed cuts related 
     to contract support that were not justified.
       OIDO.--The agreement includes $7,311,000 above the request, 
     including $3,310,000 to restore an enhancement provided in 
     fiscal year 2022 and an additional enhancement of $4,000,000 
     to help OIDO to continue expanding toward full operational 
     capacity. The additional funds are intended to support the 
     hiring of permanent OIDO staff, in addition to support 
     contracts.
       Outreach to Tribes and Rural Areas.--The Office of 
     Partnership and Engagement is directed to brief the 
     Committees not later than 90 days after the date of enactment 
     of this Act on its outreach efforts to rural communities and 
     tribes in support of the homeland security mission.


              PROCUREMENT, CONSTRUCTION, AND IMPROVEMENTS

       The agreement provides $8,048,000 for the Office of Health 
     Security for the Medical Information Exchange. No funding was 
     proposed for this account.

[[Page S8555]]

  



                           FEDERAL ASSISTANCE

       The agreement provides an increase of $15,000,000 above the 
     request for ATD-CMPP.

                         Management Directorate


                         OPERATIONS AND SUPPORT

       The agreement includes an overall decrease of $10,265,000 
     below the request. It includes increases of $36,092,000 for 
     Automated Biometric Identification System (IDENT) sustainment 
     costs; $2,500,000 for the Program Analysis and Evaluation 
     Division to review models developed by DHS components and 
     $3,000,000 for the Cybersecurity and Diversity Fellowship 
     Program. It includes decreases of $44,000,000 for vehicles 
     and $2,788,000 for the Acquisition Data Analytics Platform 
     Tool. The agreement also provides technical adjustments 
     requested by the Department including moving $1,334,000 from 
     the Management Directorate to OSEM for updated working 
     capital fund estimates; $700,000 to OSEM for a suicide 
     prevention initiative; and $3,010,000 to FEMA for the DHS 
     Volunteer Force. The agreement does not include any resources 
     related to third party medical expenses in this account.
       Budget Justifications.--The Department is expected to 
     provide complete justification materials for the fiscal year 
     2024 budget request, providing details for each office and 
     program, and clearly describing and accounting for current 
     services, transfers, adjustments to base, and program 
     changes. In addition to the detail described in Senate Report 
     116-125, the justifications shall incorporate output from 
     predictive models used by DHS component agencies to identify 
     likely impacts to future requirements. For each relevant 
     program area, justifications shall clearly describe and 
     quantify the projections used to inform resource requests, 
     indicate the agencies impacted by the projections, and 
     confirm whether the budget requests for those agencies were 
     developed using the same assumptions. In addition, the Chief 
     Financial Officer (CFO) is directed to ensure that fiscal 
     year 2024 budget justification materials for classified and 
     unclassified budgets of all components are submitted 
     concurrent with the President's budget submission to the 
     Congress.
       Component Expenditure and Staffing Plans.--The Department 
     is directed to notify the Committees when significant, policy 
     related changes are made to expenditure plans. Any 
     significant new activity that has not been explicitly 
     justified to the Committees or for which funds have not been 
     provided in appropriations Acts requires the submission of a 
     reprogramming or transfer notification. The Department shall 
     submit staffing plans to the Committees on a quarterly basis 
     and shall ensure such plans are connected to activity-level 
     details in the budget justification materials.
       Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (CUAS).--Within 60 days of 
     the date of enactment of this Act, the Department shall brief 
     the Committees on its estimated funding needs, including 
     those not addressed within the fiscal year 2023 budget 
     request, for fiscal years 2023 through 2024 to research, 
     test, acquire, and deploy CUAS capabilities.
       Cybersecurity Professionals.--Not later than 60 days after 
     the date of enactment of this Act, the Office of the Chief 
     Human Capital Officer, in coordination with OCIO and the 
     Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), 
     shall brief the Committees on the status of meeting the 
     Department's cybersecurity hiring goals and plans for 
     developing standardized metrics to ensure consistency in 
     identifying personnel skills and talents across the 
     Department.
       Domestic Supply Chain.--Not later than 180 days after the 
     date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Homeland 
     Security shall provide a report to the Committees with 
     recommendations on how the Department may procure additional 
     items from domestic sources and bolster the domestic supply 
     chain for items related to national security. The report 
     shall include a status of the compliance of the Department 
     with the requirements under section 604 of title VI of 
     division A of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 
     2009 (6 U.S.C. 453b). Additionally, the report shall include 
     an assessment of the capacity of the Department to procure 
     the following items from domestic sources: personal 
     protective equipment and other items necessary to respond to 
     a pandemic such as that caused by COVID-19; body armor 
     components intended to provide ballistic protection for an 
     individual; helmets that provide ballistic protection and 
     other head protection and components; and rain gear, cold 
     weather gear, and other environmental and flame resistant 
     clothing.
       Financial Systems Modernization Transitions.--Within 30 
     days of the date of enactment of this Act, OCFO and OCIO, 
     together with the Coast Guard, are directed to brief the 
     Committees on the full extent of the delays in the Coast 
     Guard transition to a new financial management system and the 
     extent to which the causes of the delays have been remedied. 
     In addition, OFCO and OCIO are directed to brief the 
     Committees on lessons learned from all completed component 
     transitions and measures that are being taken to ensure that 
     further transitions are successful and cost effective, 
     including related costs. The CFO shall notify the Committees 
     when significant delays are projected to occur.
       IDENT Sustainment Operations.--The agreement includes an 
     increase of $36,092,000 for the continued operation of IDENT 
     during fiscal year 2023 due to the mismanagement of the 
     program and the program's failure to achieve initial 
     operating capacity of the Homeland Advanced Recognition 
     Technology System (HART) on schedule.
       Independent Evaluation of HART.--The Department is directed 
     to initiate an independent evaluation of HART in fiscal year 
     2023 by an entity outside of DHS that follows the National 
     Institute of Standards and Technology requirements for 
     independent verification and validation. Additionally, the 
     Department shall report to the Committees on the technology, 
     data collection mechanisms, and sharing agreements among DHS 
     immigration enforcement agencies, other federal, state, 
     local, and foreign law enforcement agencies, and fusion 
     centers as relates to the development of HART. The report 
     shall provide details on HART data compiling and a list of 
     data sharing agreements related to the source or recipient of 
     data.
       Office of Biometric Identity Management (OBIM) Semi-Annual 
     Briefings.--OBIM is directed to continue briefing the 
     Committees on a semiannual basis on its workload, service 
     levels, staffing, modernization efforts, and other 
     operations.
       Zero Trust Security Model.--The agreement directs the 
     Department to continue aggressively pursuing a zero-trust 
     security model, including through adopting capabilities that 
     allow mobile devices, remote workspaces, and other endpoints 
     to operate in a secureand protected manner.


              PROCUREMENT, CONSTRUCTION, AND IMPROVEMENTS

       The agreement provides $247,133,000 below the request. 
     Reductions to the request include $140,000,000 for a third 
     Joint Processing Center (JPC); $50,000,000 for climate change 
     projects; $28,000,000 for financial systems modernization; 
     $17,133,000 proposed for HART development and deployment; and 
     $12,000,000 for the Office of Intelligence and Analysis 
     building on the St. Elizabeths campus.
       DHS Headquarters Consolidation.--Within 60 days of the date 
     of enactment of this Act, the Department shall brief the 
     Committees on an updated master plan for St. Elizabeths, to 
     include an updated Estimated Implementation Costs and Date of 
     Occupancy list and a detailed plan for the average number of 
     federal employees, by component, who are slated to work on-
     site at the St. Elizabeths campus and the average number who 
     will telework. The plan should provide comparisons for each 
     category with the original master plan for St. Elizabeths and 
     the current numbers for each category.
       HART Development and Deployment.--The agreement includes a 
     decrease of $17,133,000 from the request due to ongoing cost, 
     schedule, and performance challenges.
       JPC.--Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of 
     this Act, the Department shall brief the Committees on its 
     plans for JPCs.


                       FEDERAL PROTECTIVE SERVICE

       Security Camera and Alarm Systems.--The agreement directs 
     FPS to work with the General Service Administration (GSA) to 
     implement the recommendations in the GSA Inspector General's 
     report on security camera and alarm systems at GSA-owned 
     buildings and to brief the Committees on an implementation 
     plan and schedule within 180 days of the date of enactment of 
     this Act.

           Intelligence, Analysis, and Situational Awareness


                         OPERATIONS AND SUPPORT

       The agreement provides $316,640,000, a reduction of 
     $24,519,000 below the request, of which $95,273,000 is 
     available until September 30, 2024.
       Intelligence Data Environment for Analytics (IDEA).--The 
     agreement does not include the requested $24,519,000 for the 
     IDEA.
       Annual Budget Justification Materials.--The fiscal year 
     2024 budget justification materials for the classified budget 
     shall include the same level of detail required for other 
     appropriations and PPAs.
       Intelligence Expenditure Plan.--The Department's Chief 
     Intelligence Officer is directed to brief the Committees on 
     the fiscal year 2023 expenditure plan for the Office of 
     Intelligence and Analysis within 30 days of the date of 
     enactment of this Act. The plan shall include the following:
       (1) fiscal year 2023 expenditures and staffing allotted for 
     each program as compared to fiscal years 2019 through 2022;
       (2) all funded versus on-board positions, including FTE, 
     contractors, and reimbursable and non-reimbursable detailees;
       (3) a plan for all programs and investments, including 
     dates or timeframes for achieving key milestones;
       (4) allocations of funding within each PPA for individual 
     programs and a description of the desired outcomes for fiscal 
     year 2023; and
       (5) items outlined in the classified annex accompanying the 
     fiscal year 2022 explanatory statement, updated for fiscal 
     year 2023.
       Continuation of Fiscal Year 2022 Requirements.--The 
     Department is directed to continue providing in fiscal year 
     2023 any briefing and report as outlined in the classified 
     annex accompanying the fiscal year 2022 explanatory 
     statement.

                      Office of Inspector General


                         OPERATIONS AND SUPPORT

       The agreement provides $214,879,000 for the Office of 
     Inspector General (OIG), as requested. The agreement also 
     includes a provision that transfers $14,000,000 of the 
     $50,000,000,000 made available to the FEMA Disaster Relief 
     Fund in the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (Public Law 
     117--2) to the OIG for oversight of the use of those funds.
       Obligation Plan.--Information accompanying OIG's fiscal 
     year 2024 budget request

[[Page S8556]]

     shall include an obligation plan with details on projected 
     obligations by oversight area and activity type, such as by 
     audits, inspections, and investigations.
       Monthly Budget and Staffing Briefings.--The OIG shall 
     continue to provide the Committees monthly budget and 
     staffing briefings, as described in the explanatory statement 
     accompanying the fiscal year 2022 funding Act (Public Law 
     117--103). The briefings shall include all available funding 
     sources, contracts, and contract FTE. Further, the briefings 
     shall be modified in fiscal year 2023 to begin to shift away 
     from program office profiles and instead reflect budget 
     and staffing profiles by oversight area. They shall 
     include a plan of action and milestones update regarding 
     the development of a robust reporting capability that will 
     provide more transparency and insight into OIG's budget 
     planning and execution by such oversight areas.
       Required Notification of Failure to Provide Requested 
     Information by Secret Service.--In addition to the 
     requirements of the Inspector General Act, the Inspector 
     General shall notify the Committees in writing within 30 days 
     of requesting and not receiving information from the Secret 
     Service. Within 30 days after receipt of any such action by 
     the Secret Service, the Inspector General shall transmit to 
     the Committees a copy of the request for information; the 
     response from the Secret Service, if any; and a statement 
     regarding whether the Inspector General agrees or disagrees 
     with such response.

                   TITLE I--ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS

       Section 101. The agreement continues a provision requiring 
     the Inspector General to review grants and contracts awarded 
     by means other than full and open competition and report the 
     results to the Committees.
       Section 102. The agreement continues a provision requiring 
     the CFO to submit monthly budget execution and staffing 
     reports within 30 days after the close of each month.
       Section 103. The agreement continues a provision directing 
     the Secretary to require that contracts providing award fees 
     link such fees to successful acquisition outcomes.
       Section 104. The agreement continues a provision requiring 
     the Secretary, in conjunction with the Secretary of the 
     Treasury, to notify the Committees of any proposed transfers 
     from the Department of Treasury Forfeiture Fund to any agency 
     at DHS. No funds may be obligated prior to such notification.
       Section 105. The agreement continues a provision related to 
     official travel costs of the Secretary and Deputy Secretary.
       Section 106. The agreement continues and modifies a 
     provision requiring the Under Secretary for Management to 
     provide quarterly briefings on acquisition information to the 
     Committees.
       Section 107. The agreement continues and modifies a 
     provision restricting the use of funding for certain pilot 
     programs unless the Secretary submits specified information 
     to the Committees related to the program's goals, metrics, 
     and implementation plan.
       Section 108. The agreement includes a new provision 
     transferring $14,000,000 to the OIG from amounts provided to 
     FEMA for the Disaster Relief Fund in the American Rescue Plan 
     Act of 2021 (Public Law 117-2).

          TITLE II--SECURITY, ENFORCEMENT, AND INVESTIGATIONS

                   U.S. Customs and Border Protection


                         OPERATIONS AND SUPPORT

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)

       The agreement includes $1,131,069,000 above the request, 
     including the following: $1,600,000 for suicide prevention 
     and wellness activities, to include employee child and backup 
     care, for a total of $24,600,000; $3,000,000 for the unified 
     immigration portal, for a total of $20,000,000; $2,000,000 
     for Procurement Directorate within the Office of Acquisition; 
     $2,500,000 for the Survivor Advocacy Program; $3,000,000 for 
     the Office of Finance staffing; $5,000,000 for technology 
     capabilities for the Office of Chief Counsel; $800,000,000 
     for a shelter and services grant program; $60,085,000 for an 
     additional 125 CBP Officers, 250 technicians, and 250 mission 
     support staff; $51,536,000 over the enacted level for forced 
     labor to include $17,112,000 for an advanced trade analytics 
     platform for a total of $99,428,000 over fiscal year 2022; 
     $10,000,000 for innovative technology, for a total of 
     $35,000,000; $6,000,000 for an increase in the uniform 
     allowance; $5,000,000 for tribal roads; $6,900,000 for linear 
     ground detection system sustainment; $5,200,000 for cross 
     border tunnel threats; $5,300,000 for counter unmanned aerial 
     systems; $7,702,000 for team awareness kits, for a total of 
     $19,417,000; $10,000,000 for tactical communications; 
     $94,655,000 to reject Trade and Travel Operations PPA base 
     pay reductions; $51,116,000 to reject reductions to rent 
     related expenses; $3,000,000 for counter network capability; 
     $8,000,000 for increased intelligence capabilities; and 
     $600,000 for medical utilization.
       Reductions to the request include: $140,231,000 for changes 
     to the adjustments to base for current services due to 
     updated base pay and annualizations; $3,000,000 for zero 
     trust architecture; $2,500,000 for the Office of Finance 
     Resource Planning Technology & Analytic; $10,000,000 for 
     contracting costs; $31,500,000 for medical referral costs; 
     and $2,000,000 for medical contract costs. The account is 
     reduced $3,000,000 for a transfer to PC&I.
       Within the total amount provided, the recommendation 
     includes: $5,000,000 for tuition assistance; $10,000,000 for 
     processing improvements; $6,000,000 for caregivers and 
     childcare services; $3,500,000 for rescue beacons and the 
     Missing Migrant Program; $6,000,000 for Carrizo cane control; 
     $21,055,000 for the Incident Driven Video Recording System, 
     including body worn cameras and related requirements for 
     Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) compliance and data 
     storage; $21,000,000 for autonomous surveillance towers; 
     $10,000,000 for video monitoring capabilities; and $7,000,000 
     for Port of Entry (POE) technology, of which $5,000,000 is 
     for outbound operations.
       Within the total amount provided, the bill makes 
     $500,000,000 available until September 30, 2024, to provide 
     limited flexibility for certain activities.
       Border Management Requirements.--Funds provided in title V 
     of this Act are for border management requirements. Eligible 
     uses of these funds include soft-sided facilities with 
     appropriate wrap-around services; medical capabilities; child 
     caregivers; overtime and temporary duty (TDY) costs; DHS 
     volunteer force costs; CBP -related transportation costs; 
     operational costs; flight hours; law enforcement personnel; 
     and general contract support for processing. Not later than 
     45 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
     Undersecretary for Management shall provide an expenditure 
     plan to the Committees for the use of these funds and the 
     Commissioner shall provide a bimonthly update thereafter.
       None of the funds provided for border management 
     requirements shall be used:
       (1) to hire FTE;
       (2) for flight hours other than those flown by CBP Air and 
     Marine Operations; or
       (3) to acquire, maintain, or extend border security 
     technologies and capabilities except to improve processing.
       CBP should consider a full suite of options to attain 
     additional processing support in a cost-effective manner, 
     including through DHS volunteers, contract staff, temporary 
     duty assignments, re-employed annuitants, and remote 
     processing.
       Chief Operating Officer (COO) Re-designation.--CBP is 
     encouraged to re-designate the current COO position from 
     ``general'' to ``career reserved.'' The expanding CBP 
     workload requires stability from career leadership in 
     overseeing the day-to-day operations of the organization.
       Childcare for Employees.--Not later than 90 days after the 
     date of enactment of this Act, CBP shall provide a briefing 
     to the Committees on options for meeting the childcare needs 
     of its workforce in underserved areas. The briefing should 
     include an assessment of the limits of existing legal 
     authorities and cost estimates for various options.
       Contracted Capabilities.--CBP is directed to brief the 
     Committees not later than 60 days after the date of enactment 
     of this Act on the feasibility and legal limitations of using 
     contracted personnel for the monitoring of Border Patrol 
     surveillance video; expanding the role of contracted 
     personnel in processing noncitizens; and supplementing Air 
     and Marine Operations (AMO) flying hours with contracted 
     flying hours.
       Developing and Using Predictive Analytics.--The agreement 
     directs CBP to provide, within 45 days of the date of 
     enactment of this Act, a description of its analytic and 
     modeling capabilities; data provided by those capabilities; 
     how CBP currently uses that data; and any plans to expand 
     such use. Further, CBP shall provide a briefing to the 
     Committees within 45 days of the date of enactment of this 
     Act on a plan to better incorporate data output from current 
     analytic and modeling capabilities into reporting 
     requirements in fiscal year 2023, and options for investments 
     in expanded capabilities in fiscal year 2024.
       Human Capital Strategic Plan.--Not later than 120 days 
     after the date of enactment of this Act, the Commissioner 
     shall submit to the Committees a human capital strategy plan 
     addressing future staffing challenges as a growing percentage 
     of CBP law enforcement personnel become eligible for 
     retirement between fiscal year 2023 and the end of fiscal 
     year 2028. The plan shall include an assessment of potential 
     operational impacts; hiring and recruitment strategies that 
     incorporate lessons learned from previous hiring efforts; 
     resource requirements for CBP offices that provide critical 
     support for hiring, including for Human Resource Management, 
     the Office of Training and Development, and the Office of 
     Professional Responsibility; and funding requirements to 
     maintain operational effectiveness, including for both hiring 
     and overtime costs.
       Integrating Budget Requests.--In order to minimize funding 
     imbalances across CBP and DHS programs, CBP is directed to 
     include with any requests for new funds a description of the 
     impact of the investment on other programs. CBP, in 
     coordination with the Department, is directed to provide a 
     briefing to the Committees within 60 days of the date of 
     enactment of this Act on a plan for complying with this 
     requirement, including a description of how necessary data 
     will be incorporated into internal planning and budgeting 
     processes.
       Intelligence Human Capital Strategic Plan.--Not later than 
     120 days after the date of enactment of this Act, CBP shall 
     brief the Committees on an intelligence human capital plan 
     for the next five fiscal years addressing the expanded need 
     for intelligence professionals, including:
       (1) a description of CBP intelligence functions;
       (2) the role(s) that new, non-law enforcement analysts 
     would perform;

[[Page S8557]]

       (3) the benefits of additional analysts;
       (4) the number of law enforcement personnel currently 
     performing intelligence function roles;
       (5) the methodology used to determine the number of law 
     enforcement personnel who would be returned to front-line 
     duties;
       (6) the timeline for, and the projected number of, such law 
     enforcement personnel and the associated resource 
     requirements for each of the next five fiscal years;
       (7) a cost-benefit analysis for the options of hiring 
     intelligence professionals versus additional law enforcement 
     personnel;
       (8) examples of how current operations are shaped by 
     intelligence data analysis; and
       (9) how additional analysts would enhance strategic and 
     tactical understanding of the border environment to improve 
     operational decision making.
       Law Enforcement Suitability Analysis.--CBP is directed to 
     submit a report on the effectiveness of polygraph tests 
     within 120 days of the date of enactment of this Act. The 
     report shall include data comparing CBP's failure rates to 
     those of other federal law enforcement agencies; a list of 
     admissions elicited during polygraph tests since CBP 
     implemented a mandatory polygraph test requirement; and 
     details regarding the total and annualized number of such 
     admissions and types of admissions.
       Northern Border Strategy Implementation Plan.--Within 90 
     days of the date of enactment of this Act and quarterly 
     thereafter, CBP shall brief the Committees on the status of 
     the Northern Border Strategy Implementation Plan, including 
     whether the fiscal year 2022 milestones have been achieved; 
     the status of the fiscal year 2023 milestones; and, in each 
     case where a milestone has not been achieved, detailed 
     explanations for the failure to achieve the milestone. The 
     fiscal year 2024 budget request shall detail specific 
     northern border staffing and technology requirements and 
     request specific funding for implementation of planned 
     northern border enforcement initiatives enumerated in the 
     analysis. The Department shall work with the Committees prior 
     to providing this briefing to ensure alignment with 
     expectations.
       Overtime Usage.--CBP is directed to provide a briefing to 
     the Committees that compares onboard positions, salary and 
     overtime costs, and the monthly volume of vehicles, 
     pedestrians, and cargo containers by POE for fiscal years 
     2017 through 2022.
       Prioritizing the Acquisition of Innovative and Emerging 
     Technologies and Capabilities.--The Commissioner shall ensure 
     that all funding provided in this Act for the acquisition of 
     operational or administrative technology, equipment, and 
     services focuses on innovative and emerging capabilities. 
     Agency policies should prioritize the testing and, when 
     testing results support a sound business case, their 
     acquisition and operationalization. New technologies, 
     including artificial intelligence (AI)/machine learning (ML) 
     tools and autonomous capabilities, are critical for improving 
     mission performance and personnel effectiveness. Within 60 
     days of the date of enactment of this Act, CBP shall provide 
     a briefing to the Committees on a plan to better prioritize 
     innovative and emerging technologies and capabilities into 
     the agency's internal planning, budgeting, and programming 
     processes.
       Quarterly Budget and Staffing Briefings.--In addition to 
     the requirement set forth in section 102 of this Act, CBP 
     shall provide the Committees quarterly budget and staffing 
     briefings beginning not later than 45 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act and not later than 30 days after the 
     close of each quarter thereafter. The briefings shall include 
     any source of funding available to CBP for obligation; align 
     projected and executed budgetary obligations and on-board 
     staffing data to program areas within each PPA; and delineate 
     pay from non-pay obligations. CBP is directed to provide the 
     data and other information supporting each briefing to the 
     Committees in a downloadable, searchable, and sortable 
     spreadsheet format. The first briefing shall include:
       (1) planned monthly obligations and onboard staffing 
     projections for the fiscal year against which execution data 
     will be compared in subsequent briefings, along with any 
     changes to the plan;
       (2) a consultation with the Committees on a plan and format 
     for future quarterly briefings;
       (3) a description of any limitations that CBP's financial 
     and staffing systems of record present towards complying with 
     requirements under this heading, such as the monitoring of 
     obligations and onboard staff at the program level; and
       (4) plans to address such limitations.
       Prior to the first briefing, CBP shall provide the 
     Committees a proposed list of program areas to be tracked 
     within each PPA, which shall include at a minimum any program 
     enhancements in this Act for congressional priorities 
     described in this statement or enhancements that were in the 
     President's budget request.
       Recruitment, Hiring, and Retention.--Within 90 days of the 
     date of enactment of this Act, CBP shall brief the Committees 
     on its efforts to improve hiring and retention by all of its 
     law enforcement components. CBP shall prioritize and continue 
     efforts to use available incentives to recruit and retain 
     personnel in rural and remote areas, including the 
     exploration of new strategies; ensure that its efforts 
     include the recruitment and retention of women and other 
     traditionally under-represented population groups; and ensure 
     that appropriate anti-harassment protocols are in place for 
     all personnel. CBP shall also ensure that staff are trained 
     to recognize signs of trauma exposure, understand common 
     behaviors of people exposed to trauma, and on trauma-informed 
     practices.
       Resource Prioritization.--CBP is directed to provide a 
     bimonthly briefing to the Committees on its efforts to 
     evaluate CBP-wide workload, capabilities, assets, and human 
     resource gaps; describe how those gaps impact mission 
     performance; and use the results of the ongoing analyses to 
     support the development of the fiscal year 2024 budget 
     request.


                       Border Security Operations

       Assessing Commercial Satellite Radio Frequency (RF).--CBP 
     is directed to continue pilot programs and other efforts to 
     evaluate the use of commercial satellite radio frequency (RF) 
     collections to improve situational awareness near the land 
     borders of the United States, including how RF collection can 
     be integrated into existing surveillance and reconnaissance 
     architectures.
       Border Barriers.--Within 90 days of the date of enactment 
     of this Act, the Commissioner shall provide an update on the 
     work of the multi-agency working group established to 
     identify the impacts of complete and incomplete border 
     security infrastructure on border security, communities, 
     tribes, wildlife, and local environments, including the 
     impacts of erosion and improper drainage associated with 
     partially complete infrastructure projects, as well as its 
     plan for addressing such impacts.
       Border Patrol Hiring.--The agreement provides funding for 
     19,855 Border Patrol agents, an increase of 300 above the 
     level funded in fiscal year 2022. In light of the Border 
     Patrol's ongoing recruitment and attrition challenges, 
     funding that is unable to be executed for new hiring in 
     fiscal year 2023 is available for additional targeted Border 
     Patrol Agent hiring and retention efforts; hiring processing 
     coordinators and professional staff that relieve agents of 
     administrative duties; and for morale efforts, to include 
     increasing the uniform allowance.
       Within 90 days of the date of enactment of this Act, CBP 
     shall brief the Committees on a plan and schedule for hiring 
     the funded level of agents. The briefing shall also address 
     how CBP is ensuring appropriate oversight of the hiring 
     process and its efforts to implement recommendations from 
     misconduct investigations. Given the number of agents from 
     the northern border who have been redeployed to the southwest 
     border in recent years, the briefing shall also detail the 
     number of planned new agents who will be assigned to the 
     northern border.
       Border Security Technology Gaps.--Within 180 days of the 
     date of enactment of this Act, CBP shall brief the Committees 
     on its efforts to improve border security technology 
     development and acquisition.
       Body Worn Cameras.--Within 90 days of the date of enactment 
     of this Act, CBP shall provide the Committees an execution 
     plan and deployment schedule for body worn cameras.
       Operational Impact of Processing Coordinators.--Within 60 
     days of the date of enactment of this Act and quarterly 
     thereafter, CBP shall provide a briefing to the Committees on 
     the status of hiring processing coordinators funded by this 
     and previous appropriations Acts, including the number of law 
     enforcement personnel returned to the field as a result of 
     the onboarding of new coordinators; the measures the agency 
     is using to assess the costs and benefits of coordinator 
     positions; and a description of all training and 
     certifications required for such positions. Future funding 
     requests for coordinators shall be accompanied by measures 
     clearly detailing projected operational impacts.
       Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA).--The agreement directs 
     CBP to post on its website, within 60 days of the date of 
     enactment of this Act, a schedule for achieving full 
     compliance with PREA requirements.
       Reporting Requirements for Deaths in Custody.--CBP shall 
     continue to provide the data required in House Report 116-80 
     regarding deaths of noncitizens.
       Shelter and Services Program.--The agreement provides 
     $800,000,000 for a Shelter and Services Program (SSP) to 
     support CBP in effectively managing noncitizen processing and 
     preventing the overcrowding of short-term CBP holding 
     facilities. Within the total amount provided, up to 
     $50,000,000 is available for the construction or expansion of 
     shelter facilities. The funds are transferred to the Federal 
     Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for administration as 
     grants or cooperative agreements with state and local 
     governments and non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
       During fiscal year 2023, a portion of this funding may be 
     used for the existing Emergency Food and Shelter Program-
     Humanitarian (EFSP-H) in order to provide time for CBP and 
     FEMA to establish a funding allocation process for the SSP. 
     While the Emergency Food and Shelter National Board has 
     performed admirably in administering EFSP-H since it was 
     first funded in fiscal year 2019, funding the SSP through CBP 
     will facilitate more effective support of CBP efforts to 
     efficiently process and humanely treat noncitizens. It also 
     acknowledges the existing vital partnership between CBP and 
     NGOs.
       Prior to EFSP-H, many NGOs and local communities already 
     provided shelter and other services to individuals released 
     directly from CBP custody, helping to facilitate the humane 
     and respectful treatment of noncitizens undergoing processing 
     at CBP facilities, including families, while minimizing

[[Page S8558]]

     impacts on local border communities. Overcrowding at CBP 
     short-term holding facilities has negative impacts on 
     noncitizens and makes it more difficult for CBP personnel to 
     carry out their duties. This partnership also serves American 
     taxpayers by minimizing the need to expand the capacity of 
     existing CBP facilities.
       Not less than quarterly, CBP shall provide data to FEMA to 
     help inform decisions on where funding should be provided to 
     shelters along the southwest border and in the interior of 
     the United States to support CBP's border security mission. 
     At a minimum, this data shall include historical data and 
     future projections of encounters of families and single 
     adults, by POE and Border Patrol sector.
       Short Term Detention.--In addition to direction in House 
     Report 117-396, the Commissioner shall provide a report to 
     the Committees, within 90 days of the date of enactment of 
     this Act, on infrastructure changes, training protocols, and 
     other investments made or planned to ensure the safe, humane, 
     and orderly processing of single adults, families, and 
     unaccompanied children in CBP custody, in compliance with the 
     CBP National Standards on Transport, Escort, Detention, and 
     Search as well as the Flores Settlement. The report shall 
     also describe CBP efforts to improve stakeholder monitoring 
     and access policies at CBP facilities. These directives 
     should not be construed to interfere with the rights 
     obtained, or obligations owed, under any federal consent 
     decree.
       Transportation Checks and Roving Enforcement.--In addition 
     to direction in House Report 117-396, the required reporting 
     shall include the total amount of drugs, currency, and 
     firearms seized as a result of transportation checks.
       Workload Staffing Model for Between the Ports.--Within 30 
     days of the date of enactment of this Act, CBP shall provide 
     a briefing to the Committees on how data from the Border 
     Patrol's Mission Advantage Program demonstrates its impact on 
     personnel needs and projections of the impacts of future 
     investments in the program. Within 60 days of the date of 
     enactment of this Act, CBP shall provide a report to the 
     Committees detailing the staffing model and the process that 
     CBP used to create and validate it.


        Trade and Travel Operations--Office of Field Operations

       Advanced Electronic Data (AED).--Within 180 days of the 
     date of enactment of this Act, CBP shall provide a report to 
     the Committees on the implementation of the AED initiative, 
     including the:
       (1) total volume received by the United States Postal 
     Service (USPS) and volume containing AED;
       (2) volume received by country containing AED;
       (3) number of packages CBP requests to screen and the 
     number tendered by the USPS;
       (4) number of goods seized in Mail Facilities; and
       (5) volume received from countries exempted from AED by 
     CBP.
       The report shall also include a detailed plan, to be 
     developed in coordination with the USPS, for the Postal 
     Service to scan every package or letter entering the United 
     States that could contain an illegal opioid.
       Border Searches and Electronics.--In addition to direction 
     in House Report 117-396, the required reporting shall include 
     the number of times CBP searched an electronic device at the 
     request of a federal, state, local, or foreign governmental 
     entity, including another component of the Department, or 
     disclosed to such entity information from any searched 
     device.
       Border Security Deployment Program (BSDP).--CBP shall 
     provide the Committees a briefing within 120 days of the date 
     of enactment of this Act on the agency's plan to expand BSDP 
     at land POEs.
       Combatting Transportation of Firearms and Illicit Funds.--
     The agreement encourages CBP to continue to collaborate with 
     domestic and international partners to disrupt the flow of 
     funding that supports illicit monetary instruments and 
     firearm smuggling activities. CBP shall inform the Committees 
     any additional legal authorities or resources needed for 
     these efforts.
       Data on Asylum Seekers.--The agreement directs the Office 
     of Field Operations (OFO) to continue to produce a monthly 
     report detailing for each preceding month: the POEs along the 
     southwest border at which queue management or metering 
     practices have been employed; a detailed flow-chart for how a 
     noncitizen's case is managed in these processes; and the 
     number of asylum seekers processed at each such POE.
       The report shall also address: CBP's rationale for queue 
     management or metering practices at POEs; capacity and 
     resource constraints leading to or requiring the 
     implementation of such practices; recommendations for 
     alleviating such capacity and resource constraints; and any 
     agreements or arrangements between CBP, or the Federal 
     Government more broadly, and Government of Mexico authorities 
     involving efforts to restrict the number of potential asylum 
     seekers that can access a POE prior to entering the United 
     States.
       Environmental Crimes Enforcement.--Within 120 days of the 
     date of enactment of this Act, CBP shall provide a briefing 
     to the Committees on the activities and resources applied to 
     the enforcement of the Lacey Act amendments of 2008, which 
     help address international deforestation and combat trade in 
     illegal wildlife and timber products. The briefing shall also 
     address CBP efforts to assist the Animal and Plant Health 
     Inspection Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture with 
     the electronic collection of data, as well as its continued 
     consultation with trading partners, importers, exporters, and 
     other interested groups as the provisions of the Act are 
     fully implemented.
       Enhancement of Supply Chain Security.--Within 180 days of 
     the date of enactment of this Act, CBP shall provide a 
     briefing to the Committees with recommendations on how 
     innovative capabilities, including blockchain-based 
     platforms, may improve trade operations between the United 
     States and Central and South American countries, including 
     potential opportunities for partnership with non-profit and 
     private partners and with Central and South American Customs 
     Agencies.
       Expanding Outbound Operations at Land Ports of Entry 
     (LPOE).--The agreement provides $30,000,000 for building 
     outbound operations capacity, including $2,250,000 for 
     Domestic Operations to hire 18 CBP officers; $5,000,000 for 
     RFID/QR code readers for all outbound truck lanes to capture 
     trucks at exit, increase CBP's ability to pursue subjects 
     attempting to abscond from CBP inspection areas and other 
     security capabilities and upgrades; and $22,750,000 through 
     the Procurement, Construction, and Improvements account for 
     non-intrusive inspection equipment, development and 
     deployment of ACE electronic export manifest capability, and 
     infrastructure investments, including vehicle inspection 
     stations. Within 90 days of the date of enactment of this 
     Act, CBP is directed to provide an expenditure plan for the 
     use of these funds and to brief the Committees on the metrics 
     it will use to capture the impact of this investment.
       Fee Shortfalls and Reinstating Base Funding for OFO 
     Personnel.--The agreement restores $94,655,000 in proposed 
     reductions to pay for existing OFO personnel. The CBP CFO 
     shall continue to manage and oversee CBP fee funding to 
     ensure current year operational requirements are balanced 
     against the continuing requirement to build and maximize a 
     carryover balance. If fee collections during fiscal year 2023 
     exceed current projections and carryover requirements, CBP 
     shall refrain from obligating those available funds until it 
     briefs the Committees on options for the use of those funds 
     to include for hiring additional CBP officers and mission 
     support staff.
       Identifying Fentanyl Analogues and Related Substances at 
     the Southwest Border.--Within 60 days of the date of 
     enactment of this Act, CBP shall provide the Committees a 
     briefing on options to publicly report seizures of fentanyl-
     related substances and fentanyl analogues in the same manner 
     it reports monthly seizures of marijuana, cocaine, heroin, 
     and fentanyl.
       International Mail and Express Consignment Facilities.--
     Previously provided funds, and funds provided in this Act 
     shall be made available for facility improvements; detection 
     and testing equipment upgrades; increased capacity for 
     testing and storing illegal and regulated substances; 
     interoperability improvements with Food and Drug 
     Administration detection equipment; and innovative 
     technologies that apply advanced analytics and machine 
     learning capabilities.
       LPOE Hours of Operation.--CBP is directed to consult with 
     elected officials at all levels, community members, and 
     industry stakeholders prior to making changes to LPOE hours 
     of operations. Prior to any actual reduction in operating 
     hours, CBP shall demonstrate that the change will not impede 
     local or regional commerce or unduly impede local resident 
     traffic.
       Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this 
     Act, CBP shall provide a report to the Committees detailing 
     operating hours at all northern border POEs and describing 
     how CBP plans to improve the recruitment and retention of CBP 
     personnel at remote northern border ports of entry to sustain 
     those operating hours. Additionally, the agreement directs 
     CBP to establish a pilot program for the co-location of CBP 
     and Canada Border Services Agency border agents at remote 
     LPOEs to maintain border security and reduce costs.
       Locality Pay Scale Flexibility.--Within 120 days of the 
     date of enactment of this Act, CBP is directed to provide a 
     report, in coordination with the Office of Personnel 
     Management, on:
       (1) an analysis of local pay scales and how those pay 
     brackets impact recruitment and retention;
       (2) an overview of agency authorities for adjusting pay; 
     and
       (3) recommendations to better align local pay with costs of 
     living to improve recruitment and retention.
       Northern Border LPOEs and CBPOs.--CBP shall prioritize 
     staffing shortages at northern border LPOEs to help expedite 
     cross-border tourist and commercial traffic while providing 
     significant consideration to the health, safety, and welfare 
     needs of CBP officers; explore options for 24-hour use of 
     NEXUS at LPOEs; and expand public awareness about and 
     enrollment in the NEXUS program, including through the 
     deployment of signage in collaboration with state 
     transportation agencies.
       Additionally, CBP is directed to notify the Committees 
     within 15 days of redeploying more than 10 percent of staff 
     in any sector along the northern border to the southwest 
     border or other ports of entry, including the number and 
     location of the personnel diverted, the duration of the 
     temporary deployment, and when the personnel will return to 
     their posts.

[[Page S8559]]

       Prevent Abduction Program.--Within 180 days of the date of 
     enactment of this Act, CBP is directed to report to the 
     Committees on the status of the Prevent Abduction Program, 
     including:
       (1) the total hours of training CBP officers receive on the 
     issue of international parental child abduction;
       (2) the total number of children enrolled in the program 
     and the number enrolled in the preceding fiscal year;
       (3) the number of children enrolled in the program who were 
     taken out of the United States through an air POE by an 
     abductor, if any; and
       (4) the identification of resources CBP might need to 
     ensure children are not removed from the United States in 
     violation of a valid state court order.
       Reimbursable Services Program.--CBP is directed to provide 
     each air, land, and sea port operator, including cruise 
     terminals, with information on baseline service levels and 
     report to the Committees quarterly on its adherence to these 
     baseline levels. The report shall also address staffing 
     shortages, requirements for facility and security upgrades, 
     and plans for technology recapitalization; the process used 
     to decide how initiatives are funded; a justification for the 
     scope of the requests; and how CBP will negotiate with port 
     operators and incorporate their feedback into the development 
     of plans to address future facility and security needs.
       CBP is encouraged to defer all current and future seaport 
     facility agreements until it has provided details on baseline 
     service levels to each port operator and provided the 
     Committees with estimates for future facility and security 
     requirement improvements and associated federally mandated 
     technology. CBP is expected to work in partnership with 
     seaports and refrain from imposing requirements on seaports 
     in a unilateral fashion.
       Workforce Staffing Model.--Not later than 90 days after the 
     date of enactment of this Act, CBP shall provide a report to 
     the Committees on the results of the most current Trade and 
     Travel Workload Staffing Model, to include results; 
     descriptions of any other models related to workload at ports 
     of entry; and a comparison of model results. The agreement 
     withholds funds from the Executive Leadership and Oversight 
     PPA pending delivery of the report.


              Trade and Travel Operations--Office of Trade

       Combatting Transshipment.--CBP is directed to modify 
     targeting criteria and make additional changes necessary to 
     provide CBP with the administrative flexibility required to 
     identify transshipped products.
       Trade Enforcement.--Within 90 days of the date of enactment 
     of this Act, CBP shall provide a report to the Committees 
     detailing its implementation of trade priorities.
       Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA).--The agreement 
     fully funds implementation of the UFLPA, adjusted for funding 
     provided above the request in fiscal year 2022. Within 60 
     days of the date of enactment of this Act, CBP shall provide 
     a briefing to the Committees on implementation of the law.


                         Integrated Operations

       Honey Import Testing.--CBP is directed to provide a report 
     to the Committees, within 180 days of the date of enactment 
     of this Act and in consultation with the FDA, on:
       (1) the number of imported honey shipments tested for 
     country of origin (COO) fraud and adulteration;
       (2) the number of shipments that testing suggested involved 
     COO fraud or adulteration;
       (3) the technologies employed in carrying out those tests; 
     and
       (4) an ongoing strategy for CBP to detect and combat COO 
     fraud.
       Office of International Affairs.--CBP is directed to 
     provide a briefing, within 60 days of the date of enactment 
     of this Act and in coordination with the Department of State, 
     on opportunities to expand information campaigns in targeted 
     Central and South American countries through social and 
     behavior change communication advertising the dangers of 
     irregular migration to the United States and educating 
     residents of those countries about legal immigration 
     pathways.
       Persistent Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) Demonstration.--
     The agreement directs AMO to work with CBP's innovation 
     technology program to examine opportunities to work with 
     industry partners to conduct a persistent, long duration MDA 
     demonstration in an area where illicit maritime activity is 
     known to be concentrated. Additionally, AMO is encouraged to 
     place staff within the innovation technology program to 
     assist in the development of AMO-specific capabilities.


                            Mission Support

       Medical Care.--Within 60 days of the date of enactment of 
     this Act, CBP shall provide to the Committees a briefing on 
     the medical care capacity supported by the enacted funding 
     level, along with a detailed breakout of the types of care it 
     supports.


                          Enterprise Services

       CBP OneTM Mobile Application.--Within 90 days of 
     the date of enactment of this Act, CBP shall provide to the 
     Committees a report on CBP OneTM, including a 
     description of current uses; the frequency of use for each 
     service available on the mobile application; a description of 
     additional services and features that will be implemented by 
     the end of fiscal year 2023; and data specific to the use of 
     the mobile application by International Organizations and/
     or asylum seekers for the purpose of coordinating entry 
     into the United States through a POE, along with any 
     expansion plans for this service.
       Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR).--Within 90 
     days of the date of enactment of this Act, CBP shall brief 
     the Committees on efforts to hire additional OPR agents and a 
     description of targeted areas of investigative enhancements 
     or expansions, and its efforts to ensure CBP meets hiring 
     targets for agents and officers.
       Remote Applications for Protection.--Within 120 days of the 
     date of enactment of this Act, CBP is directed to provide a 
     briefing to the Committees on any ongoing efforts to work 
     with USCIS and the State Department that allow noncitizens 
     from certain countries to apply to seek protection in the 
     United States, prior to their arrival, using CBP 
     OneTM.
       Personnel Pay Resources Reporting.--The CBP CFO is directed 
     to provide a full-year pay execution plan to the Committees 
     within 30 days of the date of enactment of this Act, along 
     with monthly updates thereafter, for the Border Security 
     Operations PPA and the Trade & Travel sub-PPAs for Domestic 
     Operations, Targeting, and International Operations. The 
     report shall compare planned execution to actual obligations 
     for FTE and overtime. In addition, it shall differentiate 
     needs that are tied to inspection and non-inspection 
     operations.
       Survivor Advocacy Program.--The agreement provides an 
     additional $2,500,000 to increase the number of full-time 
     personnel working as survivor advocates to help CBP personnel 
     and their families after the death of a CBP employee.
       Video Monitoring.--Any non-working closed caption 
     television and associated recording or storage equipment in a 
     facility that detains migrants must be repaired or replaced 
     within 24 hours. Instances of equipment that remain non-
     working after 120 hours must be reported to the Office of 
     Professional Responsibility. Outage and repair status 
     reporting shall be updated weekly.
       Workforce Wellness and Suicide Prevention.--The agreement 
     provides not less than $24,600,000 for workforce wellness and 
     suicide prevention. In addition to direction in the House 
     Report, the agreement includes not less than $1,600,000 to 
     work with non-profits to provide workforce wellness and 
     suicide prevention services at CBP locations on the southern 
     border. Further, CBP shall explore opportunities to establish 
     partnerships with other federal agencies and SLTT entities, 
     especially within the law enforcement and first responder 
     communities, to improve and expand service offerings, with a 
     focus on underserved areas.
       Withholds.--Of the $249,915,000 made available through the 
     bill for the Executive Leadership and Oversight PPA, the 
     agreement withholds $5,000,000 until reports concerning human 
     capital strategic plans and the Office of Field Operations 
     workload staffing model are submitted to the Committees.


              procurement, construction, and improvements

       The bill includes the following increases above the 
     request: $150,000,000 for border security technology, to 
     include funding for a common operating picture; $69,947,000 
     for non-intrusive inspection (NII) systems; $3,000,000 for a 
     distributed ledger; $7,500,000 for an electronic export 
     manifest capability associated with outbound enforcement; and 
     $26,650,000 for the Advanced Training Center (ATC).
       The bill reduces the request by the following amounts: 
     $5,000,000 from ACE enhancements; $31,245,000 from Multi Role 
     Enforcement Aircraft; $10,000,000 from the light enforcement 
     platform; and $45,459,000 from CBP facilities. The agreement 
     also includes realignments based on technical assistance 
     provided by the Department.
       Border Patrol Technology.--In addition to direction in the 
     House Report, this funding is available for autonomous 
     surveillance, search and rescue capabilities, mobile 
     surveillance capabilities, cross-border tunnel detection 
     capabilities, geospatial capabilities, small unmanned 
     aerialsystems, counter small unmanned aerial system 
     capabilities, and common operating picture capabilities. The 
     Commissioner is directed to prioritize procurement of the 
     most cost-effective technologies based on lifecycle costs, 
     system availability, reduced requirements for personnel, and 
     input from sector leadership.
       Construction and Facility Improvements.--The agreement 
     provides $99,900,000 for CBP facilities, a reduction of 
     $45,459,000 from the request. In technical assistance 
     provided to the Committees, CBP proposed a restructuring of 
     the budget request to offset unforeseen costs of previously 
     funded facilities projects. Additionally, the agreement 
     rescinds $43,500,000 from prior years.
       Within the funds provided, $26,650,000 is for additional 
     expansion and renovation activities at the ATC. These funds 
     shall be used to complete construction of the Institute 
     Building and an Instructional Design/Distance Learning 
     Center.
       Additionally, not later than 90 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, CBP shall submit a report to the 
     Committees that includes:
       (1) the details of the design and construction process for 
     new or renovated Border Patrol facilities, including 
     stations, processing centers, and checkpoints;
       (2) detailed requirements for each facility currently 
     funded or proposed for funding, including buildings, parking 
     facilities, sally

[[Page S8560]]

     ports, vehicle maintenance facilities, fueling stations, 
     temporary detainee holding facilities, and kennels;
       (3) for each currently funded facility:
       (a) the total amount funded, obligated, and expended, by 
     fiscal year; and
       (b) if funds were obligated to an outside agency (e.g., 
     General Services Administration and U.S. Army Corps of 
     Engineers), the obligation and expenditure status of those 
     funds;
       (4) for each currently funded facility and for proposed 
     facilities, a construction schedule and associated 
     expenditure plan broken out by quarter (to include funds 
     appropriated through other agencies);
       (5) For each requirement described in (2):
       (a) the severability of each requirement that is specific 
     to the location;
       (b) confirmation that each requirement is an independently 
     awardable option for all contracts currently funded;
       (c) the requirements for facilities that are unfunded; and
       (d) the requirements for facilities described in (2) that 
     are unfunded; and
       (6) the number of personnel to be assigned at each 
     location, with confirmation the design is scoped to address 
     current and anticipated future staffing needs.
       The report shall also include a detailed plan to improve 
     CBP's cost estimating capability for these facilities.
       Deterring Illicit Substances.--CBP shall ensure the 
     necessary resources for procuring NII, passive radiation, and 
     X-ray/Gamma-ray imaging of cargo and conveyances to detect, 
     interdict, and deter the flow of illicit drugs, including 
     fentanyl, carfentanil, and heroin.
       Distributed Ledger Technology.--The agreement provides 
     $2,500,000 above the request for CBP to test implementation 
     of blockchain and distributed ledger technologies to improve 
     trade operations, including enhancement of supply chain 
     security, single window, and sharing of Customs Trade 
     Partnership Against Terrorism data, in cooperation with 
     foreign Customs Agencies and leveraging existing platforms as 
     appropriate. Furthermore, the agreement provides $500,000 to 
     explore opportunities for additional investment in 
     distributed ledger platforms for coordination of customs data 
     between the United States and international partners, 
     including potential opportunities for partnership with non-
     profit and private entities. CBP shall provide a report to 
     the Committees within 180 days of the date of enactment of 
     this Act with such recommendations.
       Innovative Technology.--The bill provides $20,000,000 for 
     innovative technology, of which not more than $5,000,000 
     shall be available for each specific technology project. CBP 
     is encouraged to review the following technologies: 
     geospatial search and rescue; unmanned maritime vessels; 
     remote sensing; mesh networking; satellite communications; 
     vehicle communications in LTE denied areas; DNA traceability 
     tools to assist in identifying goods made with forced labor 
     and aerostats. CBP shall provide a briefing to the Committees 
     within 90 days of the date of enactment of this Act and 
     quarterly thereafter on pilot or demonstration projects that 
     have transitioned to normal operations over the last three 
     fiscal years; the impact of such transitions on performance; 
     an assessment of common indicators for successful and 
     unsuccessful pilots; and recommendations to incentivize CBP 
     programs to participate in testing and adopting promising new 
     capabilities.
       LPOE.--CBP shall provide a detailed report and timeline 
     within 90 days of the date of enactment of this Act outlining 
     completion of the Blue Water Bridge Plaza expansion project. 
     The report shall align with the annual LPOE priority list; 
     outline projected CBP costs; explain how CBP will engage with 
     state and local entities; and detail specific milestones and 
     a timeline for the project's completion.
       CBP is directed to provide an update on the agency's 
     implementation of recommendations from GAO's July 2019 
     report, ``Border Infrastructure: Actions Needed to Improve 
     Information on Facilities and Capital Planning at Land Border 
     Crossings,'' along with a description of any changes CBP is 
     making to the existing planning process. Additionally, CBP 
     shall, in consultation with GSA, consider growth in trade 
     value, the expansion of in-bound commercial traffic, and CBP 
     operational needs when developing the capital investment 
     plan. CBP is directed to provide an update within 60 days of 
     the completion of the ongoing assessment of capacity 
     requirements at the Santa Teresa POE.
       Within 120 days of the date of enactment of this Act, CBP, 
     in consultation with GSA, shall provide the Committees a 
     briefing on plans to execute the funds provided in the 
     Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021. As part of 
     this briefing, CBP shall provide the Committees an update on 
     steps to ``rebuild'' the annual 5-year LPOE plan.
       Multi-Role Enforcement Aircraft (MEA).--The agreement 
     provides $29,000,000 to fund the second land variant MEA to 
     expand CBP's ability to conduct maritime, air, and land 
     surveillance at our Nation's borders. Additionally, the 
     agreement rescinds $23,182,000 from prior year funding for 
     this program due to contract cost savings.
       NII.--The agreement provides $69,947,000 for the NII 
     program.CBP shall execute these funds only as follows: 
     $15,250,000 for outbound inspection equipment; $10,000,000 
     for artificial intelligence and machine learning 
     capabilities, to include independent verification and 
     validation during the initial stages of development; 
     $44,947,000 for the deployment of previously funded 
     equipment, civil works infrastructure, site prep, and 
     installation of equipment associated with achieving 100 
     percent scanning of vehicles crossing the U.S. border. The 
     agreement rescinds all remaining unobligated fiscal year 2022 
     funding provided for NII, totaling $73,246,000, due to 
     continued concerns with the management of the NII program, as 
     discussed in House Report 117-396.
       To date, CBP has failed to request any funding to address 
     unfunded requirements for civil works, installation, and site 
     prep for previously funded NII equipment to be deployed in 
     pre-primary lanes at LPOEs, which could require more than an 
     additional $200,000,000. While the agreement provides 
     additional funding for the NII program, CBP and DHS are 
     encouraged to request funds in future budgets to address this 
     shortfall.
       To ensure proper oversight of NII funds, CBP shall also 
     continue to provide monthly updates to the Committees on the 
     obligation of funds for NII equipment, along with actual and 
     projected performance gains as a result of NII deployments 
     funded in this or prior appropriations. Within 30 days of the 
     date of enactment of this Act, CBP shall provide a briefing 
     to the Committees on the status of NII coverage in pre-
     primary lanes along the southwest border. The briefing should 
     address how an increase in pre-primary screening will impact 
     current secondary inspection capacity and the workflow of 
     other federal agencies that may not have sufficient time to 
     plan for additional resource needs.
       Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this 
     Act, CBP shall provide a report on the current status of 
     mobile NII technology and proposals for enhancing it.
       CBP is reminded of the reporting requirement on 100 percent 
     scanning in the joint explanatory statement accompanying the 
     fiscal year 2022 funding Act, which was due to Congress on 
     September 12, 2022.
       Period of Availability.--The PPA funding table in the 
     explanatory statement accompanying division F of the 
     Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2022 (Public Law 117-103) 
     included an inadvertent transposition of the funding amounts 
     available for three years and five years in CBP's 
     Procurement, Construction, and Improvements (PC&I) account. 
     Notwithstanding that transposition, the three- and five-year 
     funds are not purpose restricted and may be obligated for any 
     project funded under the fiscal year 2022 PC&I appropriation. 
     CBP shall allocate these funds as necessary to execute fully 
     all of the funded projects within the periods of availability 
     set forth in that Act. CBP is directed to provide revised 
     spending allocations for the three- and five-year funds when 
     it submits the expenditure plan required under Section 208 of 
     this Act.
       Revenue Modernization.--Within 120 days of the date of 
     enactment of this Act, CBP shall provide a briefing to the 
     Committees describing the percent transition from manual 
     field collections to automated electronic systems, along with 
     the cost, by POE.

                U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement


                         operations and support

       The agreement provides $394,177,000 above the request, 
     including increases of $5,960,000 for Homeland Security 
     Investigations (HSI); $379,560,000 for Enforcement and 
     Removal Operations (ERO); and $8,657,000 for Mission Support 
     and Office of the Principal Legal Advisor (OPLA) activities. 
     The agreement also provides net-zero technical adjustments 
     requested by ICE after submission of the budget request.
       Within the total amount provided, the agreement makes 
     $46,696,000 available until September 30, 2024, including 
     $32,996,000 for authorized Title III activities and 
     $13,700,000 for the Visa Security Program. The agreement also 
     continues a provision that withholds $5,000,000 from 
     obligation until the reports directed in the explanatory 
     statements accompanying Public Laws 116-6, 116-93, and 
     117-103 have been submitted to the Committees.
       Annual ERO and HSI Reports.--ICE is directed to continue 
     issuing annual Fiscal Year ERO and HSI reports by not later 
     than 90 days after end of each fiscal year. The reports 
     should compare data for the reporting fiscal year to the 
     prior five fiscal years in a sortable, downloadable, and 
     printable format, with a description of any significant 
     deviations in data representation when compared to prior 
     years.
       Continuation of Prior-Year Requirements.--ICE shall 
     continue to follow the directives under the following 
     headings in the explanatory statements accompanying the 
     fiscal year 2022 funding Act (Public Law 117-103), according 
     to the previously directed timeframes, reporting 
     requirements, required sustainment, and guidance:
       (1) Detention Standards;
       (2) Reporting Requirements;
       (3) Healthcare Costs for Immigrants in Detention;
       (4) Law Enforcement Support Center (LESC);
       (5) Sex Offender Release Notifications;
       (6) Kiosks for Non-Detained Appearances;
       (7) Detention Facility Inspections;
       (8) HERO Child-Rescue Corp Program;
       (9) Child Exploitation Investigations Unit;
       (10) Counter-Proliferation Investigations Center;
       (11) International Megan's Law;
       (12) Opioid Investigations;
       (13) Access to Due Process;

[[Page S8561]]

       (14) Immigration Enforcement at Sensitive Locations;
       (15) Forced Child Labor;
       (16) Intellectual Property Rights Enforcement;
       (17) Electronic Nationality Verification Program;
       (18) ICE Removal and Detention of U.S. Citizens;
       (19) Immigration Data; and
       (20) Wrongful Removals.
       Danger Pay.--Within 60 days of the date of enactment of 
     this Act, ICE shall provide a report to the Committees that 
     details the location of all ICE federal employees serving 
     abroad who currently do not receive danger pay in locations 
     where other federal employees receive such pay. The report 
     shall also include a projected estimate of the cost to 
     provide danger pay to such employees.
       Facilities Backlog and Use.--Within 60 days of the date of 
     enactment of this Act, and quarterly thereafter, ICE is 
     directed to brief the Committees on any changes to facility 
     condition assessments. ICE is also directed to incorporate 
     those assessments into its outyear budget requests--including 
     its annual budget justifications--for facility maintenance 
     funding, as well as in its monthly execution briefings.
       Financial and Reporting System.--ICE shall develop a plan 
     to configure its financial and reporting systems by June 2023 
     to better budget for and monitor the costs of programs and 
     initiatives and to track obligations and expenditures by 
     program and initiative. Not later than 60 days after the date 
     of enactment of this Act, ICE shall brief the Committees on 
     the status of this effort, including a description of 
     anticipated risks and a mitigation plan to address such 
     risks.
       Forward Funding of Contracts.--ICE is directed to identify 
     in its monthly budget briefings any funding used for 
     contracts for which the period of performance extends beyond 
     the fiscal year, or begins after the end of the fiscal year, 
     and to include an exhibit in future budget requests showing 
     any such forward funded contracts.
       Monthly Budget and Staffing Briefings.--In addition to the 
     requirement set forth in section 102 of this Act, ICE shall 
     provide the Committees monthly budget and staffing briefings 
     beginning not later than 30 days after the date of enactment 
     of this Act. The briefings shall include any source of 
     funding available to ICE for obligation; align projected and 
     executed budgetary obligations and on-board staffing data to 
     program areas within each PPA; and delineate pay and non-pay 
     obligations. Prior to the first briefing, ICE shall provide 
     the Committees a proposed list of program areas to be tracked 
     within each PPA, which shall at a minimum include all 
     congressional priorities referenced in this Act, along with 
     those of the last three fiscal years, including the 
     accompanying explanatory statements for each Act. The first 
     briefing shall include:
       (1) planned monthly obligations and onboard staffing 
     projections for the fiscal year against which execution data 
     will be compared in subsequent briefings, along with any 
     changes to the plan;
       (2) a consultation with the Committees on a plan and format 
     for future monthly briefings;
       (3) a description of any limitations presented by ICE's 
     existing financial and staffing systems of record in 
     complying with requirements under this heading, such as the 
     monitoring of obligations and onboard staff at the program 
     level; and
       (4) ICE's plan to address the limitations described in (3), 
     including resource requirements.
       Title V Requirements.--The agreement provides $339,658,000 
     in Title V for ICE's non-detention border management 
     requirements, including $74,980,000 in third party medical 
     costs related to noncitizens in CBP custody.

                    Homeland Security Investigations

       Enhancing and Modernizing HSI's Capabilities.--The 
     agreement provides a total increase of $5,960,000 above the 
     request, including:
       (1) $31,808,000 to restore proposed reductions for the 
     Domestic Investigations PPA based on efficiencies that were 
     not clearly defined;
       (2) $10,017,000 to increase investigative capacity to 
     respond to projected increases in workload associated with 
     the planned expansion of CBP's NII technology along the 
     southwest border;
       (3) $2,200,000 to expand and enhance undercover activities;
       (4) $8,600,000 to accelerate development of capabilities 
     for the Repository for Analytics in a Virtualized Environment 
     (RAVEn);
       (5) $6,860,000 to fund the training, equipment, travel, 
     software, and analysts necessary to address the increase in 
     child exploitation leads and investigations and increased 
     victim assistance requirements;
       (6) $4,500,000 for the training, equipping, and hiring of 
     Human Exploitation Rescue Operative (HERO) Child-Rescue Corps 
     program graduates;
       (7) $220,000 for the Victim Assistance Program;
       (8) $14,500,000 for the National Intellectual Property 
     Rights (IPR) Center, of which, not less than $7,500,000 shall 
     be for the creation of the Wildlife Trafficking Unit;
       (9) $1,607,000 to restore proposed reductions to the 
     International Investigations PPA; and
       (10) $1,820,000 to restore proposed reductions to the 
     Intelligence PPA.
       ICE is directed to update the Committees with details about 
     the use of these additional funds as part of its monthly 
     operational and expenditure plans. Further, ICE shall provide 
     detailed staffing and budget assumptions about these efforts 
     in future budget requests. The agreement also includes a 
     reduction of $73,672,000 from the request based on updated 
     information from ICE about personnel cost requirements. The 
     agreement also rejects the proposed realignment of $2,500,000 
     from OSEM for the Blue Campaign.
       International Operations Strategic Plan.--Within 90 days of 
     the date of enactment of this Act, HSI is directed to brief 
     the Committees on its strategic plan for international 
     operations. At a minimum, the plan should include a 
     justification for an expanded international presence; the 
     proposed locations for expansion; the operational and 
     administrative resources required to implement the plan; a 
     description of any plan implementation challenges or 
     impediments, including any related to the State Department; 
     and a description of any planned expansion of the Visa 
     Security Program.
       Wildlife Trafficking Unit.--$7,500,000 is provided above 
     the request for the establishment of a new unit dedicated to 
     the prevention of Wildlife Trafficking within HSI's IPR 
     Center, Global Trade Division. HSI shall continue to work in 
     partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and CBP 
     to improve efforts to address wildlife trafficking. Within 90 
     days of enactment of this Act, HSI shall brief the Committees 
     on the execution of these funds and the status of the new 
     Wildlife Trafficking Unit, including efforts to hire and 
     train future staff. HSI is also directed to continue to 
     produce the report identified in Public Law 116-125.

                   Enforcement and Removal Operations

       The agreement sustains the fiscal year 2022 detention 
     capacity levels. Reductions below the request include 
     $46,150,000 based on updated information from ICE and 
     technical assistance from the Department; $15,000,000 from 
     amounts proposed for an information technology initiative; 
     $21,000,000 related to facility standards; $3,313,000 
     associated with Fugitive Operations technical assistance and 
     efficiencies; $6,258,000 for Criminal Apprehension Program 
     technical assistance and efficiencies; $820,000 for 
     Transportation and Removal Program (TRP) efficiencies; and 
     $84,871,000 for the ATD program. The agreement does not 
     include the requested realignment of $8,000,000 in third 
     party medical costs to CBP.
       287(g) Program.--ICE is directed to publish applications 
     for new or renewed 287(g) agreements on its website at least 
     eight weeks prior to entering into any such agreement. In 
     addition, ICE shall ensure thorough vetting of 287(g) 
     applicants to minimize detention conditions that do not fully 
     comply with Performance-Based National Detention Standards 
     and PREA standards.
       ICE, OIG, and CRCL are directed to provide rigorous 
     oversight of the 287(g) program, and ICE is directed to 
     notify the Committees 15 days prior to implementing any 
     changes to the program, including any changes to training 
     requirements, data collection, selection criteria, or the 
     jurisdictions with which ICE has agreements, including both 
     entering into new contracts or the termination of existing 
     contracts. ICE is also directed to report to the Committees 
     on the effectiveness and accuracy of prior efforts to 
     publicly disclose personally identifiable information about 
     noncitizens encountered through the 287(g) program within 60 
     days of the date of enactment of this Act.
       If CRCL or ICE's Office of Professional Responsibility 
     (OPR) determines that a participating 287(g) jurisdiction has 
     a pattern or practice of civil rights or liberties violations 
     of individuals who were subsequently the subject of 
     immigration enforcement activity delegated under the 287(g) 
     authority, the Secretary shall require CRCL to conduct a 
     review of the use of this program in that jurisdiction which 
     shall include recommendations regarding ICE's furtherance of 
     any such agreement with that jurisdiction. Not later than 120 
     days after the date of enactment of this Act, and quarterly 
     thereafter, CRCL and OPR shall brief the Committees on any 
     such determinations, reviews, and recommendations, as well as 
     the status of any previous activity.
       ATD.--The funding level for ATD is based on fiscal year 
     2022 data on the actual program costs and provides sufficient 
     funding for the proposed enrollment levels. ICE shall 
     continue to brief the Committees on any ATD contracts it 
     awards under this program. Within 60 days of the date of 
     enactment of this Act, ICE shall begin providing a monthly 
     briefing on the number of noncitizens participating in the 
     ATD program by technology type, cost by technology type, and 
     the number of participants who attend a portion of or all of 
     their immigration court hearings. ICE shall also continue to 
     publish annually the following policies and data relating to 
     ATD:
       (1) guidance for referral, placement, escalation, and de-
     escalation decisions;
       (2) enrollment and disenrollment by Field Office;
       (3) information on the length of enrollment broken down by 
     type of ATD;
       (4) a breakdown of enrollment by type and point of 
     apprehension; and
       (5) a breakdown of disenrollment by type and reason.
       ATD Program Violations.--ICE shall submit data to the 
     Committees within 30 days of the date of the enactment of 
     this Act and monthly thereafter, on the number of ATD program 
     violations in the prior month, broken out by area of 
     responsibility, type of violation, repeat violations, and any 
     enforcement consequences for violations.

[[Page S8562]]

       ATD Referrals.--ICE shall consider enrollment referrals 
     from NGOs and community partners that are actively 
     implementing ICE's ATD programs that utilize case management. 
     ICE shall establish, with the consultation of relevant NGO 
     and local community partners, at ICE's discretion, criteria 
     for such referrals, guidelines for submission, and criteria 
     for how ICE will consider any such referrals for enrollment 
     in ATD programs. ICE shall submit a report to the Committees 
     on progress regarding these guidelines within 60 days of the 
     date of enactment of this Act and quarterly thereafter until 
     the guidelines are finalized. ICE shall submit an annual 
     report on the number of NGO referrals that are submitted and 
     the number of such referrals accepted into ATD programs that 
     utilize case management programs.
       Custody Operations.--The agreement sustains the fiscal year 
     2022 detention capacity levels. Within 90 days of the date of 
     enactment of this Act, ICE shall brief the Committees on a 
     projected cost to secure an Independent Verification and 
     Validation (IV&V) of a detention capacity funding 
     requirements model to be used for resource planning for the 
     current year, budget year, and out-years. The review should 
     address the accuracy of projections of average daily 
     population levels and utilization rates for funded detention 
     capacity; whether the model clearly accounts for policy and 
     external factors; and whether the model is informed by 
     projected border encounters. ICE shall brief the Committees 
     within 30 days of the date of enactment of this Act and 
     monthly thereafter on the detention capacity, cost, and 
     actual use associated with detention contracts that do not 
     have guaranteed minimum costs.
       Detention and Solitary Confinement of Vulnerable/Special 
     Populations.--Within 15 days of the date of enactment of this 
     Act and quarterly thereafter, ICE shall report on a publicly 
     available website the number of individuals in vulnerable or 
     special populations in its physical custody for the 
     preceding quarter. At a minimum, the report shall include:
       (1) a definition for vulnerable and special populations;
       (2) the number of consecutive and cumulative days such 
     individuals were in detention or involuntary segregation 
     through isolation, solitary confinement, or protective 
     custody;
       (3) the basis for any use of involuntary segregation; and
       (4) the process for and frequency of re-evaluating custody 
     decisions.
       Within 90 days of the date of enactment of this Act, ICE 
     shall brief the Committees on the state of compliance with 
     the principles and standards of all ICE guidance related to 
     vulnerable populations, along with any necessary actions 
     needed to remediate deficiencies. The briefing should address 
     the number of facilities that are in compliance with such 
     guidance; their location; the number of available beds for 
     vulnerable or special populations; whether those beds are in 
     a form of involuntary segregation; and whether such 
     facilities need additional resources to ensure the health and 
     safety of such persons in their care and custody.
       Juvenile Coordinators.--Within 60 days of the date of 
     enactment of this Act, and quarterly thereafter, ICE shall 
     brief the Committees on the status of regional juvenile 
     coordinators and young adults in the ICE system, and provide 
     updates on the IV&V, as previously directed.
       Personal devices.--ICE shall brief the Committees, within 
     180 days of the date of enactment of this Act, on the 
     potential implications, pros/cons, and costs/savings 
     associated with allowing noncitizens in custody to retain or 
     have access to their personal cell phones while in custody.
       Pregnant, Postpartum, and Lactating Women.--ICE is directed 
     to provide semiannual reports on the total number of 
     pregnant, postpartum, and lactating women in ICE custody, 
     including detailed justification of the circumstances 
     warranting each such detainee's continued detention and the 
     length of detention. These anonymized reports shall be made 
     publicly available on the ICE website.
       Transportation and Removal Program (TRP).--TRP provides the 
     safe and secure transportation of noncitizens who are subject 
     to final orders of removal or require transfer within the 
     United States, which may ultimately include transportation to 
     the noncitizen's final destination if ICE determines in its 
     discretion that such transportation is necessary.
       Within 60 days of the date of enactment of this Act, and 
     quarterly thereafter, ICE shall brief the Committees on its 
     existing contracts for all air, ground, and sea 
     transportation of noncitizens, including children and 
     families. The briefing shall include a description of the 
     current total contracted capacity, delineated by 
     transportation type; average cost per person for each type; 
     contract options, where applicable; contract costs, including 
     actual daily, weekly, and monthly costs; and comparisons of 
     actual costs to initial projections for the preceding 
     quarter.
       Unaccompanied Children (UC) Transferred from ORR.--Not 
     later than 30 days after the date of enactment of this Act 
     and quarterly thereafter, ICE shall brief the Committees on 
     its compliance with Garcia Ramirez, Et Al. v. ICE, Et Al. 
     (No. CV 18-508 (RC)).

                            Mission Support

       The agreement provides $8,657,000 above the request for 
     Mission Support and includes realignments among the three 
     Mission Support sub-PPAs based on technical assistance from 
     the Department. The total includes increases above the 
     request of $4,000,000 for a workforce staffing model IV&V 
     $2,500,000 for the Office of Detention Oversight; $12,000,000 
     for body worn cameras; $10,000,000 for increased legal access 
     for non-citizens in detention; and $583,000 for restoring a 
     2022 enhancement for the Office of Professional 
     Responsibility. It includes decreases from the request of: 
     $7,917,000 for OPLA augmentation efforts; $1,999,000 for 
     event security logging; $1,486,000 for ATD IT services; and 
     $9,024,000 for mission and administration support 
     infrastructure.
       Body Worn Cameras.--ICE shall use the results from its Body 
     Worn Camera pilot to develop guidance and policies for full 
     implementation across the agency. Within 90 days of the date 
     of enactment of this Act, ICE shall brief the Committees on 
     the draft guidance and policies for the pilot.
       Fleet.--The agreement provides the requested amount for 
     vehicles, of which $1,000,000 is for the replacement and 
     maintenance of vehicles deployed overseas.
       Improved Legal Resources.--The agreement provides 
     $10,000,000 above the request to the Civil Liberties Division 
     of the Office of Diversity and Civil Rights to improve law 
     libraries, update legal materials, provide online legal 
     access, expand video attorney visitation, and facilitate the 
     secure exchange of legal documents between noncitizens and 
     their counsel. ICE is directed to brief the Committees on an 
     expenditure plan for increased legal access within 60 days of 
     the date of enactment of this Act.
       Office of Detention Oversight (ODO).--The agreement 
     provides $2,500,000 above the request to support additional, 
     unannounced inspections; to review compliance with each 
     detention standard not less than once every three years at 
     each facility; to expand ODO's oversight to facilities that 
     detain individuals for 72-hours or less; and to conduct 
     reviews and inspections of any special or short-term or 
     emergency facilities and programs.
       Workload Staffing Model (WSM).--The agreement includes 
     $4,000,000 above the request to conduct an IV&V of the WSM, 
     which shall be performed by an organization that is 
     technically, managerially, and financially independent from 
     ICE and DHS. Not later than 90 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, ICE shall brief the Committees on the 
     status of the IV&V and the WSM, including how the WSM 
     supports the formulation of budget requests and is used in 
     the development and implementation of ICE's operational plan.

                 Office of the Principal Legal Advisor

       The agreement provides the requested level of $402,314,000 
     for OPLA.


              procurement, construction, and improvements

       The agreement provides $22,997,000, $74,765,000 below the 
     request. ICE shall provide a detailed expenditure plan to the 
     Committees for each project, including the planned use of any 
     carryover balances of prior-year funding, within 30 days of 
     the date of enactment of this Act and provide plan updates as 
     part of its monthly operational and expenditure briefings. 
     These plans shall also include information on the operational 
     efficiencies and expanded capabilities that will result from 
     these investments.

                 Transportation Security Administration


                         operations and support

       The agreement reduces the request by a total of 
     $744,362,000. Increases above the request include $94,147,000 
     for exit lane staffing; $13,382,000 for the Personnel Futures 
     Program; $5,000,000 for acquisition support staffing; and 
     $4,000,000 for pipeline cybersecurity. Decreases below the 
     request are attributed to the implementation of personnel 
     system changes later in the fiscal year than proposed and 
     staffing increases that better reflect fiscal year 2023 
     requirements, as described below. The agreement includes 
     $22,300,000 for Credential Authentication Technology in the 
     PC&I account instead of in the O&S account, where the 
     funding had been proposed. The agreement also provides net 
     zero budgetary adjustments requested by TSA in technical 
     assistance.
       Exit Lane Staffing.--The agreement rejects the $94,147,000 
     decrease proposed in the President's fiscal year 2023 budget 
     to eliminate statutorily-required exit lane staffing. Within 
     120 days of the date of enactment of this Act, TSA shall 
     provide a report to the Committees on technological solutions 
     to secure exit lanes and the feasibility of implementing such 
     solutions.
       Federal Air Marshal Service (FAMS).--TSA shall continue to 
     submit semiannual reports at the appropriate level of 
     classification on FAMS mission coverage, staffing levels, and 
     hiring rates.
       Hiring in Rural Communities.--Not later than 90 days after 
     the date of enactment of this Act, TSA shall provide a 
     briefing to the Committees on the challenges of recruiting 
     and retaining federal employees in non-contiguous and rural 
     states, including how TSA is addressing these challenges and 
     the resources identified for this purpose.
       International Parental Child Abduction.--Within 120 days of 
     the date of enactment of this Act, TSA shall provide a report 
     to the Committees summarizing current frontline workforce 
     training requirements on recognizing and preventing 
     international parental child abduction.
       On-Person Screening Algorithm Development.--The agreement 
     provides $18,700,000, as requested in the President's fiscal 
     year 2023 budget, to continue the development of an

[[Page S8563]]

     upgraded algorithm to achieve lower alarm rates for the 
     current Advanced Imagining Technology fleet.
       Passenger Screening Canine Teams.--Within 120 days of the 
     date of enactment of this Act, TSA shall brief the Committees 
     on its ongoing efforts to improve the effectiveness of 
     passenger screening canine teams.
       Personnel System Changes.--The agreement provides 
     $397,619,000 to implement TSA personnel system initiatives in 
     fiscal year 2023, compared to $992,020,000 in the President's 
     budget request. Not later than 180 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, TSA shall provide a briefing to the 
     Committees on a detailed plan to effectively measure the 
     impact of these personnel system changes on TSO recruitment, 
     hiring, and retention.
       Pipeline Cybersecurity.--The agreement provides $4,000,000 
     above the President's budget request for pipeline 
     cybersecurity, sufficient to meet the estimated fiscal year 
     2023 requirements for this activity when combined with 
     carryover funding from prior years. Not later than 90 days 
     after the date of enactment of this Act, TSA shall provide a 
     briefing to the Committees on an obligation plan for fiscal 
     year 2023 and actions taken to better plan for required 
     funding in future years.
       Remote Screening Infrastructure (RSI).--Within 90 days of 
     the date of enactment of this Act, TSA shall provide a 
     briefing to the Committees detailing its partnership with the 
     Science and Technology Directorate on the RSI initiative. The 
     briefing shall include information on all remote screening 
     evaluation efforts, the feasibility of incorporating remote 
     screening infrastructure into screening environments, and an 
     analysis of any potential impacts on TSA staffing, security 
     operations, and the passenger experience.
       Transportation Security Officer (TSO) Staffing.--The 
     agreement provides $60,638,000 for new TSO hiring. Within 90 
     days of the date of enactment of this Act, and monthly 
     thereafter, TSA shall provide a briefing on TSO staffing 
     levels using the most current payroll data available, 
     combined with commensurate passenger volume and wait-time 
     data. TSA shall ensure that future budget requests and 
     briefings include a detailed forecast of passenger volume in 
     relation to requested TSO staffing levels and specify 
     projected operational efficiencies and passenger experience 
     improvements resulting from the continued investment and 
     deployment of new screening technologies.
       Visible Intermodal Prevention and Response (VIPR) Teams.--
     The agreement partially rejects the $6,854,000 decrease for 
     VIPR as proposed in the President's fiscal year 2023 budget. 
     Within the funds provided for Surface Programs, the agreement 
     includes $800,000 for body worn cameras to ensure compliance 
     with Executive Order 14074, and $151,000 for increased VIPR 
     law enforcement training.


              procurement, construction, and improvements

       The agreement provides $22,300,000 above the request, which 
     reflects the realignment of Credential Authentication 
     Technology funding from the O&S account.
       Computed Tomography (CT).--The agreement includes 
     $105,405,000, as proposed in the President's fiscal year 2023 
     budget, for the purchase and installation of approximately 
     108 CT machines for passenger checkpoints at the highest-risk 
     airports in the United States. TSA is directed to continue to 
     leverage innovative capabilities to improve threat detection.
       Credential Authentication Technology (CAT).--Within 90 days 
     of the date of enactment of this Act, TSA shall provide a 
     report to the Committees detailing airports at which CAT is 
     currently deployed, airports at which CAT is not currently 
     deployed, and a plan for the full procurement and deployment 
     of CAT systems at all domestic airports.
       Explosive Detection Systems (EDS).--TSA is directed to 
     provide quarterly briefings on its investment plans for 
     checkpoint security and EDS refurbishment, procurement, and 
     installation by airport location. These briefings shall 
     include information on specific technologies for purchase; 
     program schedules; major milestones; obligation schedules; 
     recapitalization priorities; status of operational testing 
     for each passenger screening technology under development; 
     and a table detailing actual unobligated balances versus 
     those anticipated at the close of the fiscal year.
       These briefings shall also include details on checkpoint 
     screening pilot programs and public-private partnerships that 
     are in progress or being considered for implementation. For 
     each pilot program or public-private partnership, these 
     briefings shall also include a summary; a description of its 
     goals; potential capabilities and benefits of the program; 
     the airports where the pilots or partnerships will take 
     place; funding commitments; and plans for future expansion.
       In addition, the briefing shall include detailed program 
     schedules for passenger screening technologies, including all 
     milestones from the issuance of a request for proposal to 
     deployment.


                        research and development

       The agreement provides $33,532,000 as requested.
       Innovation Task Force (ITF).--Within 120 days of the date 
     of enactment of this Act, TSA shall provide a briefing to the 
     Committees on how the funds provided for ITF will inform 
     future TSA budget requests.
       Open Architecture.--Within 120 days of the date of 
     enactment of this Act, TSA shall provide a briefing to the 
     Committees on current developments of an established open 
     architecture framework for transportation security equipment. 
     The briefing shall include well-defined requirements and 
     standards, and detail existing workflows and interfaces 
     across the aviation security domain.

                              Coast Guard


                         operations and support

       The agreement provides an increase of $80,449,000 above the 
     request, including increases of $110,939,000 to maintain 2022 
     enhancements; $82,598,000 for increased fuel and energy 
     costs; $20,000,000 for the National Coast Guard Museum 
     exhibits; $5,000,000 to meet increased demand for the child 
     care subsidy; $5,000,000 for housing program investments; 
     $2,500,000 for military recruiting; $4,004,000 for other 
     recruiting and retention efforts; $3,600,000 to accelerate 
     efforts to modify the nine 140-foot Bay Class Icebreaking Tug 
     berthings to accommodate mixed gender crews; $1,900,000 for 
     the operation, maintenance, and transport of new hyperbaric 
     chambers funded in PC&I and $275,000 for station redundancy 
     adjustments.
       The agreement includes reductions from the request, 
     including: $39,509,000 for the Atlantic Partnership; 
     $25,000,000 for the crewing of a commercially available 
     icebreaker; $21,611,000 to reflect updated pay assumptions; 
     $20,429,000 in NSC follow-on costs to reflect changes in the 
     NSC schedule; $6,756,000 for software follow-on costs; 
     $5,781,000 in Offshore Patrol Cutter (OPC) follow-on costs to 
     reflect changes in the OPC schedule; $3,807,000 for the 
     Operations and Strategy Development--Oceania program; and 
     $2,474,000 for innovation and commercial technology 
     initiatives.
       In lieu of the requested contingency funding, the agreement 
     provides increased funding in the two Field Operations PPAs. 
     For the fiscal year 2024 budget justification, the Department 
     is expected to propose funding in the same sub-PPA structure.
       Department of Defense (DOD) Cybersecurity Requirements.--
     The Coast Guard shall brief the Committees within 120 days of 
     the date of enactment of this Act, on its compliance with DOD 
     information network requirements.
       Interoperable Gateway System (IGS) Modernization.--The 
     Coast Guard is directed to explore the feasibility and value 
     of incorporating IGS technology into its operations and to 
     brief the Committees on the results of its assessment within 
     120 days of the date of enactment of this Act.
       Migrant Interdiction Effectiveness.--Within 90 days of the 
     date of enactment of this Act, the Coast Guard is directed to 
     brief the Committees on the key drivers of the drop in the 
     migrant interdiction effectiveness rate in the maritime 
     environment and any actions the Coast Guard is taking to 
     improve its effectiveness rate.
       NSC Follow-On.--The agreement reduces the budget request 
     for NSC follow-on costs by $20,429,000 but fully funds the 
     requested military personnel follow-on costs.
       OPC Follow-On.--The agreement reduces the budget request 
     for operations and maintenance costs of the second OPC by 
     $5,781,000 but fully funds the requested military personnel 
     follow-on costs.
       Offshore Wind.--The Coast Guard and Department are 
     encouraged to collaborate with other public and private 
     stakeholders, including industry and labor groups, to support 
     offshore wind and supporting maritime infrastructure and to 
     work together to support the domestic workforce and vessel 
     inventory required to advance offshore wind technology.
       Regional Programs.--The Coast Guard shall provide quarterly 
     briefings on the execution of funding provided for its 
     operations in various regions (including the Arctic Strategy 
     and Operations and the Oceania Operations and Strategy 
     Development initiatives funded in the agreement) beginning 
     within 180 days of the date of enactment of this Act.
       Towing Vessel Inspection Fee.--The Coast Guard is directed 
     to brief the Committees on the status of the rulemaking and 
     implementation of new user fees within 60 days of the date of 
     enactment of this Act.
       Unfunded Priorities List (UPL).--The Coast Guard is 
     directed to provide a list of approved but unfunded Coast 
     Guard priorities and the associated funding needs for each 
     priority to the Committees at the time of the fiscal year 
     2024 budget request submission.
       Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USV).--The agreement directs the 
     Coast Guard to provide a report on its research and 
     development activities related to USVs, including an 
     evaluation of wind and solar powered vessels with surface and 
     subsurface capabilities, within 90 days of the date of 
     enactment of this Act. The Coast Guard shall update the 
     Committees on the findings of its research as they become 
     available.


              procurement, construction, and improvements

       The agreement provides an increase of $14,800,000 above the 
     request, including $46,000,000 for the economic price 
     adjustment costs of Fast Response Cutters (FRCs) funded in 
     prior years; $56,000,000 for eight new MH-60T helicopter 
     hulls; $12,000,000 for heavy weather boats; $10,000,000 for 
     the Vessel Traffic System modernization and Command and 
     Control Modernization efforts; $7,800,000 for hyperbaric 
     recompression chambers; $75,000,000 for the Polar Security 
     Cutter
       (PSC) homeport in Seattle; $10,000,000 for phase 3 of the 
     family housing project at Fort

[[Page S8564]]

     Wadsworth-Sector New York; $10,000,000 for Air Station 
     Barbers Point hangar project; $105,000,000 for the Kodiak 
     pier project for OPCs and FRCs; and $35,000,000 for 
     construction and expansion of Coast Guard child development 
     centers. Reductions from the request include: $125,000,000 
     for a commercially available ice breaker; $120,000,000 from 
     the PSC program and $107,000,000 from the OPC program.
       Coast Guard Yard Resilient Infrastructure and Construction 
     Improvement.--The Coast Guard should dedicate funding to 
     facility upgrades needed to improve the resilience of the 
     Coast Guard Yard and associated infrastructure, as well as 
     any other shore infrastructure maintenance and capital 
     improvement projects.
       Commercially Available Icebreaker.--The agreement does not 
     include the requested funding for the acquisition of a 
     commercially available polar icebreaker.
       Domestic Content.--To the maximum extent practicable, the 
     Coast Guard is directed to utilize components that are 
     manufactured in the United States when contracting for new 
     vessels, including auxiliary equipment, such as pumps for 
     shipboard services; propulsion equipment, including engines, 
     reduction gears, and propellers; shipboard cranes; and 
     spreaders for shipboard cranes.
       Fleet Mix Analysis.--The Coast Guard is directed to provide 
     an update to the Committees on the analysis required in 
     division F of the Joint Explanatory Statement accompanying 
     Public Law 117-103 within 60 days of the date of enactment of 
     this Act. The analysis should include all classes of vessels, 
     including those with missions that might not have a direct 
     bearing on the workload of other vessel classes.
       Full-Funding Policy.--Consistent with congressional 
     direction in prior years, the Coast Guard shall be exempt 
     from any acquisition policy that requires an appropriation 
     for the total acquisition cost for a vessel, including long 
     lead time materials (LLTM), production costs, and 
     postproduction costs, before a production contract can be 
     awarded.
       Funded Projects.--The Coast Guard is directed to 
     expeditiously notify the Committees regarding cost increases, 
     executability concerns, and any other issues that may 
     increase the risk profile of planned and funded acquisitions.
       Heavy Weather Boats.--The agreement includes $12,000,000 
     above the request to replace heavy weather boats that have 
     been taken out of service.
       NSC Program.--The agreement provides the requested 
     $60,000,000 for the NSC program to support post-delivery 
     activities to missionize and operationalize NSCs 10 and 11.
       OPC.--The agreement includes $543,000,000, which is 
     $107,000,000 below the request, for the construction of the 
     fifth OPC and LLTM for the sixth OPC. No funding is provided 
     for hull form licenses or training aids.
       PSC.--The agreement includes $42,000,000 for the program 
     management costs of a third PSC.
       Quarterly Acquisition Briefing.--The Coast Guard shall 
     continue to brief the Committees quarterly on all major 
     acquisitions, with a particular focus on the costs and 
     schedules of the NSC, OPC, and PSC programs. In addition, the 
     Coast Guard shall brief the Committees at least one week 
     prior to taking procurement actions that will significantly 
     impact the costs of these acquisition programs.
       Waterways Commerce Cutter (WCC).--The agreement includes 
     $77,000,000, as requested, for the recapitalization of the 
     nation's inland tenders and barges. The Coast Guard shall 
     maintain consistent oversight of the procurement process 
     including adherence to the small business set aside 
     arrangement throughout the duration of the program.

                                Aircraft

       MH--60T Fleet.--The agreement includes $56,000,000 above 
     the request for eight new MH-60T helicopter hulls to 
     accelerate the rotary wing fleet transition.

                       Other Acquisition Programs

       The agreement includes $17,800,000 above the request, 
     including $7,800,000 for hyperbaric recompression chambers 
     and $10,000,000 for the Vessel Traffic System modernization 
     and Command and Control Modernization efforts.

                Shore Facilities and Aids to Navigation

       The agreement includes $235,000,000 above the request for 
     several projects from the Coast Guard's UPL including 
     $75,000,000 for the PSC homeport in Seattle; $10,000,000 for 
     phase 3 of the family housing project at Fort Wadsworth-
     Sector New York; $10,000,000 for Air Station Barbers Point 
     hangar project; $105,000,000 for the Kodiak pier project for 
     OPCs and FRCs; and $35,000,000 for construction and expansion 
     of Coast Guard Child Development Centers.

                      United States Secret Service


                         operations and support

       The agreement provides $100,671,000 above the request, 
     including $11,000,000 for increased travel expenses; 
     $32,800,000 for protection of protectees; $11,700,000 for 
     increased National Special Security Event (NSSE) support; 
     $2,500,000 for the National Threat Assessment Center (NTAC); 
     $2,600,000 for increased campaign support; $38,270,000 to 
     continue and expand training in computer forensics by the 
     National Computer Forensics Institute (NCFI); $5,000,000 for 
     Cyber Fraud Task Force (CFTF); and $8,801,000 for permanent 
     change of station requirements. Additionally, the agreement 
     includes a net realignment of $18,000,000 from O&S to PC&I 
     compared to the request, based on technical assistance from 
     the Secret Service.
       Within the total amount provided, the bill makes 
     $52,296,000 available until September 30, 2024, including 
     $1,675,000 for international operations; $12,880,000 for the 
     James J. Rowley Training Center; $15,241,000 for Operational 
     Mission Support; $18,000,000 for protective travel; and 
     $4,500,000 for NSSEs.
       CFTF.--The agreement includes $5,000,000 above the request 
     to help provide the modern investigative capabilities 
     necessary for combating the rise in transnational crimes 
     under the jurisdiction of USSS. The USSS shall ensure funds 
     are evenly distributed among the Secret Service's Field 
     Divisions for necessary mobile forensic technology upgrades. 
     Not later than 120 days after the date of enactment of this 
     Act, USSS is directed to provide a briefing on the efforts of 
     the CFTF, including the current state of the program and any 
     future needs to ensure the task forces remain prepared for 
     evolving cyber threats.
       Presidential Limousine.--USSS is directed to provide annual 
     updates on acquisition contract progress, including contract 
     performance in meeting delivery deadlines.
       Secret Service Overtime.--Not later than 30 days after the 
     date of enactment of this Act, USSS is directed to provide 
     data to the Committees for the previous calendar year on 
     personnel who received supermax pay, disaggregated by 
     position, title and pay grade, years of federal service at 
     USSS, total years of service with the Federal Government, and 
     total salary, delineated by base, overtime, and supermax pay. 
     USSS shall ensure that all privacy-related laws are followed 
     as a part of this data reporting requirement. Beginning with 
     the fiscal year 2025 budget request, this information should 
     be included in the justification materials that accompany 
     budget submissions.
       Support for NCFI.--The agreement includes $45,526,000 to 
     continue training in computer forensics and academic 
     certification at NCFI and $23,000,000 to repurpose and 
     renovate existing NCFI facilities to accommodate the ongoing 
     growth of the program. These resources are critical to 
     bolstering state and local cyber capabilities and supporting 
     USSS CFTF. NCFI shall continue to prioritize the training 
     needs of SLTT law enforcement personnel and legal and 
     judicial professionals in computer forensics and cyber 
     investigations.
       Strategic Human Capital Plan.--The agreement directs the 
     USSS, in coordination with the Department's Chief Human 
     Capital Officer (CHCO), to annually evaluate the 5-year 
     strategic human capital plan to assess progress in meeting 
     identified benchmarks and goals. The USSS and the CHCO shall 
     also brief the Committees not less than bi-annually on 
     progress in achieving plan benchmarks and goals.


              procurement, construction, and improvements

       The agreement provides $18,000,000 above the request for a 
     net realignment from O&S based on technical assistance 
     provided by the Secret Service.

                  TITLE II--ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS

       Section 201. The agreement continues a provision regarding 
     overtime compensation.
       Section 202. The agreement continues a provision allowing 
     CBP to sustain or increase operations in Puerto Rico and the 
     U.S. Virgin Islands with appropriated funds.
       Section 203. The agreement continues a provision regarding 
     the availability of passenger fees collected from certain 
     countries.
       Section 204. The agreement continues a provision allowing 
     CBP access to certain reimbursements for preclearance 
     activities.
       Section 205. The agreement continues a provision regarding 
     the importation of prescription drugs from Canada.
       Section 206. The agreement continues a provision regarding 
     the waiver of certain navigation and vessel-inspection laws.
       Section 207. The agreement continues a provision preventing 
     the establishment of new border crossing fees at LPOEs.
       Section 208. The agreement continues and modifies a 
     provision requiring the Commissioner of CBP to submit an 
     expenditure plan for funds made available under the heading, 
     ``U.S. Customs and Border Protection--Procurement, 
     Construction, and Improvements''.
       Section 209. The agreement continues a provision 
     prohibiting the construction of border security barriers in 
     specified areas.
       Section 210. The agreement continues a provision on vetting 
     operations at existing locations.
       Section 211. The agreement includes a new provision that 
     provides for a grant for the purposes of providing shelter 
     and other services.
       Section 212. The agreement continues a provision that 
     describes the use of funds provided under the heading, ``U.S. 
     Customs and Border Protection--Procurement, Construction, and 
     Improvements''.
       Section 213. The agreement continues a provision 
     prohibiting the use of funds provided under the heading, 
     ``U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement--Operations and 
     Support'' to continue a delegation of authority under the 
     287(g) program if the terms of an agreement governing such 
     delegation have been materially violated.
       Section 214. The agreement continues a provision 
     prohibiting the use of funds provided under the heading 
     ``U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement--Operations and 
     Support'' to contract with a facility for detention services 
     if the facility receives less than ``adequate'' ratings in 
     two consecutive performance evaluations and requires that 
     such evaluations be conducted by the ICE OPR.

[[Page S8565]]

       Section 215. The agreement continues a provision allowing 
     the Secretary to reprogram funds within and transfer funds to 
     ``U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement--Operations and 
     Support'' to ensure the detention of noncitizens prioritized 
     for removal.
       Section 216. The agreement continues a provision that 
     requires ICE to provide statistics about its detention 
     population.
       Section 217. By reference, the agreement continues 
     provisions related to information sharing and on reporting 
     under the 287(g) program.
       Section 218. The agreement continues a provision clarifying 
     that certain elected and appointed officials are not exempt 
     from federal passenger and baggage screening.
       Section 219. The agreement continues a provision directing 
     TSA to deploy explosives detection systems based on risk and 
     other factors.
       Section 220. The agreement continues a provision 
     authorizing TSA to use funds from the Aviation Security 
     Capital Fund for the procurement and installation of 
     explosives detection systems or for other purposes authorized 
     by law.
       Section 221. The agreement continues and modifies a 
     provision requiring TSA to provide a report that includes the 
     Capital Investment Plan, the five-year technology investment 
     plan, and information on Advanced Integrated Passenger 
     Screening Technologies.
       Section 222. The agreement continues and modifies a 
     provision relating to a pilot program for screening outside 
     an existing primary passenger terminal screening area.
       Section 223. The agreement continues a provision 
     prohibiting funds made available by this Act under the 
     heading, ``Coast Guard--Operations and Support'' for 
     recreational vessel expenses, except to the extent fees are 
     collected from owners of yachts and credited to this 
     appropriation.
       Section 224. The agreement continues a provision under the 
     heading, ``Coast Guard--Operations and Support'' allowing up 
     to $10,000,000 to be reprogrammed to or from Military 
     Personnel and between the Field Operations funding 
     subcategories.
       Section 225. The agreement continues a provision requiring 
     the Commandant of the Coast Guard to submit a future-years 
     capital investment plan.
       Section 226. The agreement continues a provision related to 
     the reallocation of funds for certain overseas activities.
       Section 227. The agreement continues a provision 
     prohibiting funds to reduce the staff or mission at the Coast 
     Guard's legacy Operations Systems Center.
       Section 228. The agreement continues a provision 
     prohibiting the use of funds to conduct a competition for 
     activities related to the Coast Guard National Vessel 
     Documentation Center.
       Section 229. The agreement continues a provision allowing 
     the use of funds to alter, but not reduce, operations within 
     the Civil Engineering program of the Coast Guard.
       Section 230. The agreement continues a provision allowing 
     for use of the Coast Guard Housing Fund.
       Section 231. The agreement continues a provision related to 
     towing vessel fees.
       Section 232. The agreement continues a provision allowing 
     the Secret Service to obligate funds in anticipation of 
     reimbursement for personnel receiving training.
       Section 233. The agreement continues a provision 
     prohibiting the use of funds by the Secret Service to protect 
     the head of a federal agency other than the Secretary of 
     Homeland Security, except when the Director has entered into 
     a reimbursable agreement for such protection services.
       Section 234. The agreement continues a provision allowing 
     the reprogramming of funds provided under the heading, 
     ``United States Secret Service--Operations and Support''.
       Section 235. The agreement continues a provision allowing 
     funds provided under the heading, ``United States Secret 
     Service--Operations and Support'' to be available for travel 
     of employees on protective missions without regard to the 
     limitations on such expenditures.
       Section 236. The agreement includes a new provision 
     providing for a grant or cooperative agreement for certain 
     existing facilities used by the USSS.

      TITLE III--PROTECTION, PREPAREDNESS, RESPONSE, AND RECOVERY

            Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency


                         operations and support

       The agreement includes a net increase of $388,946,000 above 
     the budget request, as described in further detail below. The 
     agreement also includes one-time reductions to account for 
     projected under-execution of payroll-related funding; such 
     reductions are not intended to impact CISA's table of 
     organization but rather, to reflect that hiring all 
     congressionally funded positions will require additional 
     time.
       Of the total amount provided for this account, $36,293,000 
     is available until September 30, 2024, for the National 
     Infrastructure Simulation Analysis Center (NISAC).
       Industry Outreach.--To allow CISA and industry to have 
     meaningful discussions about cybersecurity capabilities, 
     challenges, and technologies, as well as future business 
     opportunities, CISA is directed to hold quarterly outreach 
     sessions with a broad array of small, mid-size, and large 
     cyber security businesses. In addition, CISA shall regularly 
     provide additional engagement opportunities for both small 
     group and one-on-one industry sessions. CISA shall provide a 
     briefing to the Committees within 90 days of the date of 
     enactment of this Act that details the level of 
     participation, materials shared with industry, and a timeline 
     for future engagements.
       Quarterly Budget and Staffing Briefings.--The agreement 
     includes a provision to require that the Director of CISA (or 
     the Director's designee) provide the Committees quarterly 
     expenditure plan, budget execution, and staffing briefings, 
     consistent with the requirement in the explanatory  statement 
     accompanying the fiscal year 2022 funding Act (Public Law 
     117-103). The provision reduces the amounts for CISA 
     Operations and Support by $50,000 for each day after the 
     respective due dates that the briefings for the first 
     three quarters have not been provided to the Committees; 
     and directs that any such reductions come from the 
     Management and Business Activities PPA.

                             Cybersecurity

       The agreement includes a net increase of $210,241,000 above 
     the budget request, including $164,819,000 to sustain fiscal 
     year 2022 enhancements; $23,476,000 to implement requirements 
     of the Cyber Incident Reporting for Critical Infrastructure 
     Act of 2022 (CIRCIA) (Public Law 117-103); and $51,400,000 in 
     enhancements that are described in more detail below. The 
     agreement realigns $650,000 and 3 FTE from CISA's Joint Cyber 
     Defense Collaborative (JCDC) to CISA's Office of Strategy, 
     Policy, and Plans (SPP) to host the Program Management Office 
     (PMO) for Sensitive Source Reporting Programs. The agreement 
     includes a one-time reduction of $21,877,000 below the 
     request for projected under-execution of funding for staffing 
     and $6,927,000 below the request for requested enhancements 
     already funded in the sustainment of fiscal year 2022 
     enhancements.
       Accreditation of Third-Party Cybersecurity Service 
     Providers.--CISA shall examine the feasibility of developing 
     standardized requirements for and accreditation of third-
     party cybersecurity service providers for federal agencies, 
     SLTT governments, and critical infrastructure organizations, 
     including vulnerability assessment and incident response 
     providers. Not later than 120 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, CISA shall brief the Committees on the 
     results of this analysis, which shall include any necessary 
     additional legal authorities required to execute such 
     functions.
       Critical Infrastructure Cybersecurity Shared Services Pilot 
     Program.--The agreement provides $15,000,000 above the 
     request for the development of a pilot program to make 
     available scalable, commercial cybersecurity shared services 
     that critical infrastructure entities can utilize to detect 
     and prevent cybersecurity threats and more effectively 
     mitigate vulnerabilities, as described in House Report 117-
     396.
       Cyber Defense Education and Training (CDET).--The agreement 
     provides $17,300,000 above the request to support CDET, 
     including $5,000,000 for continuing the Federal Cyber 
     Reskilling Academy; $2,500,000 for continuing the National 
     Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE); $3,000,000 for 
     the development of non-traditional training providers (NTTP) 
     in cyber workforce development; and $6,800,000 for continuing 
     investments in cybersecurity education programs targeting 
     kindergarten through the 12th grade (K-12), including the 
     Cybersecurity Education and Training Assistance Program 
     (CETAP). CETAP and NTTP funding may be executed as grants or 
     cooperative agreements, as needed.
       CISA shall provide a briefing to the Committees not later 
     than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act 
     regarding efforts to implement the interagency cybersecurity 
     training and education strategy developed in fiscal year 
     2022, to include an update on CISA's cybersecurity education 
     and training programs. CISA is also directed to continue its 
     commitment to the NICE Challenge Project and shall brief the 
     Committees not later than 90 days after the date of enactment 
     of this Act on its planned activities regarding this project.
       Cyber Threat Indicators.--The agreement provides $7,100,000 
     above the budget request level for a collaborative analysis 
     of cyber threat indicators, including $6,740,000 within the 
     Threat Hunting PPA and $360,000 within the Operations, 
     Planning, and Coordination PPA, to expand CISA's capacity and 
     capabilities related to data collection and statistical 
     analyses.
       Cyber Threat Intelligence Shared Service Offering.--The 
     agreement provides $2,500,000 above the request to enable 
     CISA to continue efforts funded in fiscal year 2022 to 
     enhance its cyber threat intelligence ``as-a service'' 
     capabilities through CISA's Cybersecurity Shared Services 
     Office (CSSO).
       Data Security Vulnerability Improvements.--Not later than 
     180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
     Secretary shall submit a report that examines existing 
     security vulnerabilities of Federal Civilian Executive Branch 
     (FCEB) government IT systems. The report shall include an 
     examination of emerging technologies that could improve the 
     government's data security and protection, such as data 
     shielding and immutable logging of suspect activity; instant 
     threat and anomaly detection mechanisms; and user behavior 
     analytics. This report may be submitted in a classified 
     format, if necessary, along with an unclassified summary of 
     findings.

[[Page S8566]]

       Evaluating Expansion of CSSO Support.--The recommendation 
     required under this heading in House Report 117-396 shall be 
     due to the Committees not later than 240 days after the date 
     of enactment of this Act.
       Evaluating Federal Cybersecurity Planning and Strategy.--
     CISA is reminded of the requirement under this heading in the 
     explanatory statement accompanying the fiscal year 2022 
     funding Act that is due annually within 60 days of the 
     submission of the President's annual budget request.
       Federal Network Resilience, Hardening Critical 
     Infrastructure and SLTT Attack Surfaces.--CISA is directed to 
     expand its attack surface visibility and national 
     vulnerability incident response to improve situational 
     awareness of internet-accessible attack surfaces related to 
     non-federal, critical infrastructure, and SLTT networks. 
     Accordingly, the agreement provides $67,714,000 above the 
     request to restore proposed cuts to and sustain efforts 
     funded in fiscal year 2022 for attack surface management and 
     federal vulnerability response, and provides an additional 
     $6,000,000 to add non-federal, critical infrastructure, and 
     SLTT networks to the portfolio.
       Joint Cyber Defense Collaborative (JCDC).--In addition to 
     providing $16,995,000 above the request in the Operational 
     Planning and Coordination PPA to sustain fiscal year 2022 
     enhancements for the JCDC, the agreement provides 
     $14,728,000, as requested, to further expand the JCDC's 
     capabilities, of which $2,604,000 is to support the Joint 
     Cyber Coordination Group.
       Further, the agreement provides $300,000 above the budget 
     request to mature and expand CISA's existing relationship 
     with the Health Information Sharing and Analysis Center and 
     related entities that help mitigate risk to our healthcare 
     infrastructure, along with all other sectors and ISACs.
       Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center (MS-
     ISAC).--The agreement provides not less than $43,000,000 to 
     be awarded to the MS-ISAC to sustain and continue to expand 
     and invest in the program's capabilities and expertise, to 
     include:
       (1) SLTT election security support via the Election 
     Infrastructure Information Sharing and Analysis Center;
       (2) mis- and disinformation mitigation capabilities;
       (3) enhanced support and additional licenses for Endpoint 
     Detection and Response;
       (4) expanded malicious domain activity blocking and 
     reporting services;
       (5) expansion of the MS-ISAC cyber incident response team 
     and its capabilities;
       (6) additional Albert sensors;
       (7) additional services, including Managed Email Security, 
     Security Orchestration Automation and Response, Web 
     Application Firewall, and the SLTT Critical Infrastructure 
     Baseline Security program;
       (8) continuing a National Prevention Pilot to provide an 
     unclassified Unified Threat Management service for election 
     and SLTT partners;
       (9) improving threat intelligence and data retention and 
     storage capabilities; and
       (10) allowing additional SLTT members to receive MS-ISAC 
     services.
       Private Sector Engagement on Cyber Training.--The briefing 
     required under this heading in House Report 117-396 shall be 
     due to the Committees not later than 60 days after the 
     completion of the National Cyber Workforce Strategy report.
       Protective Domain Name Service (DNS).--The agreement 
     provides $15,000,000 above the request to continue support 
     for the operation of a centralized federal DNS egress 
     service.
       Ransomware.--Within 180 days of the date of enactment of 
     this Act, CISA shall provide a briefing to the Committees on 
     the factors that left the United States vulnerable to any 
     ransomware attack on critical infrastructure over the last 
     year and CISA's efforts to raise awareness of the threat of 
     ransomware and activities to reduce the impact of ransomware 
     attacks.
       State Courts Electronic Data.--CISA is directed to continue 
     its ongoing partnership with MS--ISAC to expand outreach to 
     the state courts through national level associations to drive 
     participation and understanding of services available to 
     prevent, protect against, and respond to cyber-attacks on 
     state court electronic data systems.
       Threat Hunting.--Not later than 60 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, CISA shall provide a report to the 
     Committees on the total capacity of threat hunting and 
     incident response capability it has developed, using a metric 
     by which its ability to respond to the severity and quantity 
     of incidents can be measured.

                        Infrastructure Security

       The agreement includes a net increase of $26,890,000 above 
     the budget request, including $28,219,000 to sustain fiscal 
     year 2022 enhancements; $2,520,000 to restore the proposed 
     cut to the Infrastructure Assessments and Analysis Program; 
     and $12,064,000 in enhancements that are described in more 
     detail below. The agreement includes a one-time reduction of 
     $12,000,000 below the request for projected under-execution 
     of funding for staffing and $3,913,000 below the request for 
     a requested increase to implement exercise-related provisions 
     of the Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act 
     that are already funded in the sustainment of fiscal year 
     2022 enhancements.
       Bomb Disposal Technician Training and Technology Training 
     Events (TTEs).--The agreement provides $2,000,000 above the 
     request for the Office for Bombing Prevention, as described 
     in House Report 117-396. Not later than 120 days after the 
     date of enactment of this Act, CISA and the Federal Bureau of 
     Investigation (FBI) Hazardous Devices School (HDS) shall 
     provide a briefing to the Committees that outlines a strategy 
     for ensuring that guidance, intelligence products, training 
     curricula, and capability assessments provided to the Public 
     Safety Bomb Technician community follow standardized 
     terminology, as well as tactics, techniques, and procedures. 
     The briefing shall include a description of authorities, 
     roles, and responsibilities of all relevant federal 
     government stakeholders, including any impacts of resources 
     at CISA and the FBI.
       National Cyber Exercise Program (NCEP).--In furtherance of 
     section 1547 of the National Defense Authorization Act for 
     Fiscal Year 2022 (Public Law 117-81), the agreement provides 
     $6,500,000 above the request for CISA to execute its role as 
     the NCEP administrator.
       School Safety.--The agreement provides $3,564,000 above the 
     request to allow CISA to expand its school safety services 
     and product offerings. Not later than 180 days after the date 
     of enactment of this Act, CISA shall provide a briefing to 
     the Committees on its strategy and plans to address the wide 
     range of complex and evolving threats to the nation's 
     schools, both cyber and physical. The briefing shall reflect 
     the consultation requirements set forth in 2220D of the 
     Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 665K), including the 
     Departments of Education, Justice, and Health and Human 
     Services, and education, disability, and civil rights 
     stakeholders. Further, the briefing shall include a breakout 
     of the funding and staffing resources dedicated to these 
     efforts and information on how CISA plans to prioritize 
     evidence-based resources and strategies that help foster 
     safe, inclusive, and positive school climates that support 
     the social, emotional, and mental well-being of students 
     alongside their physical safety.

                        Emergency Communications

       The agreement includes an increase of $28,336,000 above the 
     budget request, including $22,482,000 to sustain fiscal year 
     2022 enhancements; $3,854,000 to restore the proposed cut to 
     the Interoperable Communications Technical Assistance 
     Program; and $2,000,000 in enhancements that are described in 
     more detail below.
       Cyber Resilient 911 (CR911) Ecosystem.--In lieu of the 
     requirement under the heading, ``Resilient Next Generation 
     911 (NG911) Ecosystem'' in House Report 117-396, CISA shall 
     include the CR911 program in its quarterly expenditure plan 
     and budget briefings described above.
       First Responder Emergency Medical Communications.--The 
     agreement provides $6,000,000 above the request--$2,000,000 
     above the fiscal year 2022 level--for CISA to administer and 
     expand competitive grants for SLTT merit-based demonstration 
     projects and technical assistance offerings that aid in the 
     implementation of the National Emergency Communications Plan 
     through innovative approaches to interoperable emergency 
     medical communications in rural areas to enhance public 
     safety communications.

                         Integrated Operations

       The agreement includes a net increase of $38,517,000 above 
     the budget request, including $34,032,000 to sustain fiscal 
     year 2022 enhancements; $5,869,000 to implement requirements 
     of CIRCIA; and $7,216,000 to restore the proposed cut to 
     chemical security inspections based on unexplained 
     efficiencies that would result in fewer inspections of 
     regulated chemical facilities throughout the fiscal year. The 
     agreement includes a one-time reduction of $8,600,000 below 
     the request for projected under-execution of funding for 
     staffing.
       State Cybersecurity Coordinators.--Not later than 60 days 
     after the date of enactment of this Act, CISA shall provide a 
     briefing to the Committees detailing its plan and schedule to 
     hire all vacant state cybersecurity coordinator positions. 
     CISA shall also include recommendations to the Committees on 
     additional resources state cybersecurity coordinators need to 
     assist state, local, and tribal governments enhance their 
     cyber defenses.

                       Risk Management Operations

       The agreement includes a net increase of $44,107,000 above 
     the budget request, including $43,338,000 to sustain fiscal 
     year 2022 enhancements; $700,000 to implement requirements of 
     CIRCIA; and $6,869,000 to restore the proposed cut to the 
     NISAC. The agreement includes a one-time reduction of 
     $6,800,000 below the request for projected under-execution 
     of funding for staffing.
       Continuity of the Economy Plan.--The agreement provides 
     $349,000 above the request for the continued development of a 
     Continuity of the Economy Plan, as required by section 9603 
     of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense 
     Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 116-283).
       National Risk Management Center (NRMC).--Not later than 60 
     days after the date of enactment of this Act, CISA shall 
     provide a briefing to the Committees on the strategic 
     direction of the NRMC. The briefing shall also include an 
     update on CISA's national critical functions analytic 
     capabilities, along with any applications of these 
     capabilities in fiscal year 2022 and the status and 
     prioritization of ongoing analyses and modeling.

                Stakeholder Engagement and Requirements

       The agreement includes a net increase of $14,388,000 above 
     the budget request, including $16,198,000 to sustain fiscal 
     year 2022 enhancements; $700,000 to implement requirements of 
     CIRCIA; and $1,890,000 in enhancements that are described in 
     more detail

[[Page S8567]]

     below. The agreement includes a one-time reduction of 
     $4,400,000 below the request for projected under-execution of 
     funding for staffing.
       Systemically Important Entities (SIE) Outreach and 
     Engagement Support.--The agreement provides $1,890,000 above 
     the request to support agency-wide efforts to engage with and 
     support SIEs, as described in House Report 117-396.

                            Mission Support

       The agreement includes a net increase of $26,467,000 above 
     the budget request, including $16,618,000 to sustain fiscal 
     year 2022 enhancements; $3,755,000 to implement requirements 
     of CIRCIA; and $11,620,000 in enhancements that are described 
     in more detail below. The agreement realigns $650,000 and 3 
     FTE from the JCDC to SPP, as described above. The agreement 
     includes $6,176,000 below the request for requested 
     enhancements for procurement operations already funded in the 
     sustainment of fiscal year 2022 enhancements.
       Cybersecurity Insurance and Data Analysis Working Group.--
     In lieu of direction provided under these headings in House 
     Report 117-396, CISA shall provide a briefing to the 
     Committees, not later than 90 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, on the status of establishing a 
     public-private cybersecurity insurance and data analysis 
     working group, as described in House Report 117-87.
       Mission Support Requirements.--The agreement provides 
     $10,500,000 above the request, of which $8,000,000 is for 
     Management and Business Activities for resource planning and 
     to improve internal controls, with a focus on hiring and 
     budget planning, execution, and reporting; and of which 
     $2,500,000 is for Strategy, Policy, and Plans to increase its 
     capacity to address CISA's expanding and evolving mission.
       Talent Management Mission Support.--The agreement provides 
     $1,120,000 above the request for additional personnel to 
     support hiring and talent management programs, including 
     through the accelerated implementation of the Cyber Talent 
     Management System.


              PROCUREMENT, CONSTRUCTION, AND IMPROVEMENTS

                             Cybersecurity

       Continuous Diagnostics and Mitigation (CDM).--The agreement 
     provides $331,896,000 for CDM, as requested. CISA is directed 
     to continue evaluating the use of automation to replace 
     manual software patch remediation methods, as described in 
     House Report 117-396. CISA shall provide a briefing to the 
     Committees on the findings of the evaluation within 30 days 
     of the completion of the evaluation.
       National Cybersecurity Protection System (NCPS).--The 
     agreement provides $91,193,000 for NCPS, including $1,000,000 
     above the request to enhance the protection of federal 
     networks and expand CISA's ability to coordinate and execute 
     defenses against nation-state threats and mitigate critical 
     vulnerabilities.
       Threat Hunting.--The agreement provides $31,000,000 for 
     threat hunting, of which $28,000,000 is for CyberSentry, 
     $3,000,000 above the request. Not later than 30 days after 
     the date of enactment of this Act, CISA shall provide a 
     briefing to the Committees on the additional capacity it will 
     achieve in fiscal year 2023.


                        RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

                            Risk Management

       Technology Development and Deployment Program (TDDP).--The 
     agreement provides $3,500,000 above the request for the TDDP.

                  Federal Emergency Management Agency


                         OPERATIONS AND SUPPORT

       The agreement provides $1,448,000 above the request, 
     including $1,000,000 for administration of the Next 
     Generation Warning System; $9,193,000 for Integrated Public 
     Alert and Warning System; $2,000,000 for National Continuity 
     Readiness Implementation; $2,426,000 for the FEMA Strategic 
     Program; $305,000 for the Emergency Management Accreditation 
     Program; $370,000 for the Certified Emergency Manager 
     Program; $3,000,000 for the FEMA Operations Center; 
     $3,200,000 for the Administration of Community Project 
     Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending grants; $350,000 to 
     reject the proposed cut to administration of Alternatives to 
     Detention Case Management; $3,010,000 for the transfer of 
     Volunteer Force into FEMA; $632,000 to reject the proposed 
     transfer of the Office of Faith and Neighborhood 
     Partnerships; $6,697,000 to reject the proposed realignment 
     of Defense Production Act activities; $1,600,000 for 
     Continuity Communications Equipment; $1,000,000 for the 
     Deployable Cellular Communications System; $7,500,000 for 
     post disaster technical assistance to insular areas; and 
     $32,000 above the request to sustain fiscal year 2022 
     enhancements.
       Funding below the request includes reductions of $400,000 
     for Human Capital Systems; $4,500,000 for Regional Response 
     Coordination Center Modernization; $1,622,000 for Mobile 
     Emergency Office Vehicles (MEOVs); and $900,000 for the 
     privacy organization program. The agreement also includes a 
     reduction of $32,464,000 for one-time reductions to account 
     for projected under-execution of payroll-related funding and 
     net zero technical adjustments among PPAs requested by FEMA, 
     including the realignment of the Enterprise Cybersecurity 
     activity and an associated $982,000 out of O&S to the 
     Disaster Relief Fund base.
       Advanced Modeling and 3D Technology.--Within 180 days of 
     the date of enactment of this Act, the Office of Response and 
     Recovery (OR&R) is directed to brief the Committees on the 
     benefits and feasibility of integrating hi-resolution imagery 
     and three-dimensional simulation capabilities into its 
     emergency response tools, the steps OR&R is taking to execute 
     such integration (including partnerships with industry), and 
     how these steps could expedite Federal disaster 
     declarations by the President.
       Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC).--
     Within 60 days of the date of enactment of this Act and 
     quarterly thereafter, FEMA shall brief the Committees on the 
     status of BRIC implementation, including projected funding 
     levels; a description of how stakeholder views, including 
     those of local governments, are incorporated into program 
     operation; and details about how FEMA is addressing 
     stakeholder concerns regarding limited feedback from FEMA to 
     unsuccessful applicants and regarding the geographic 
     distribution of grants.
       Within 180 days of the date of enactment of this Act, FEMA 
     is directed to brief the Committees on plans for addressing 
     how the BRIC technical scoring process takes into 
     consideration the unique circumstances of many local 
     municipalities, such as the level of government with 
     responsibility for building code adoption and enforcement.
       Dam Removal Coordination.--Within 60 days of the date of 
     enactment of this Act, FEMA, in consultation with the U.S. 
     Fish and Wildlife Service, shall submit a plan to increase 
     inter-agency coordination on dam removal and related flood 
     map updates, including a timeline for plans to update flood 
     maps of states where dam removals have taken place within the 
     past 10 years.
       Emergency Management Assistance Compact.--The agreement 
     provides $2,000,000 in the Response and Recovery PPA for the 
     Emergency Management Assistance Compact.
       Interagency Coordination.--Within 90 days of the date of 
     enactment of this Act, FEMA and the U.S. Department of 
     Housing and Urban Development (HUD) are directed to brief the 
     Committees on:
       (1) efforts to improve data sharing and integration;
       (2) how such efforts are staffed, coordinated, and 
     monitored to ensure continual progress;
       (3) how such efforts can reduce redundant and burdensome 
     data collection from survivors;
       (4) known challenges and barriers to advancing FEMA-HUD 
     data sharing;
       (5) safeguards in place to protect survivor privacy; and
       (6) key lessons learned from prior efforts.
       National Dam Safety Program.--The agreement provides not 
     less than $9,657,000 in the Mitigation PPA for the National 
     Dam Safety Program.
       National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program.--The 
     agreement provides not less than $8,517,000 in the Mitigation 
     PPA for the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program.
       National Inventory of Dams.--FEMA is directed to ensure the 
     maintenance and reliable operation of national decision 
     support tools that generate flood inundation maps and other 
     products to support the goals of dam safety.
       New Programs and Initiatives.--FEMA is directed to brief 
     the Committees prior to implementing significant new programs 
     or initiatives, with sufficient time allowed for appropriate 
     feedback and oversight.
       Small and Rural Water and Waste Water Systems.--FEMA is 
     directed to provide a briefing, within 60 days of the date of 
     enactment of this Act, outlining a plan and the resources 
     necessary (by state) to assist water and wastewater utilities 
     that lack financial resources and capacity to address 
     emergency preparedness and response activities in the Gulf of 
     Mexico coastal states.
       Technical Assistance for Insular Areas.--The agreement 
     provides $7,500,000 for post-disaster technical assistance 
     for insular areas, as authorized by 42 U.S.C. 5204b. FEMA is 
     directed to brief the Committees prior to implementing this 
     program.
       Technical Hazards Preparedness and Training.--Within 60 
     days of the date of enactment of this Act, FEMA shall brief 
     the Committees on a plan to implement technical hazards 
     preparedness and training, to include an estimate of the 
     resources required to offer this nationwide.
       Underserved Communities.--Within 60 days of the date of 
     enactment of this Act, FEMA shall brief the Committees on its 
     efforts to implement the requirements of Executive Order 
     13985 and the measurable outcomes related to such 
     implementation.
       Urban Search and Rescue (US&R).--Within 60 days of the date 
     of enactment of this Act, FEMA shall brief the Committees on 
     the US&R program to understand how previously provided funds 
     have been utilized.


              PROCUREMENT, CONSTRUCTION, AND IMPROVEMENTS

       The agreement includes an increase of $17,411,000 above the 
     request, including $3,000,000 for the National Warning 
     System; $8,400,000 for the Integrated Public Alert and 
     Warning System; and $10,411,000 for construction, facilities, 
     and asset improvement projects at the Mount Weather Emergency 
     Operations Center. No funding is provided for Mobile 
     Emergency Office Vehicles.

[[Page S8568]]

  



                           FEDERAL ASSISTANCE

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)

       The agreement includes an increase of $351,525,000 above 
     the budget request, not including funding transferred from 
     the Office of the Secretary and Executive Management for 
     targeted violence and terrorism prevention grants and an 
     Alternatives to Detention case management pilot program, or 
     funds transferred from U.S. Customs and Border Protection for 
     a Shelter and Services Program. The amount provided for this 
     appropriation by PPA is as follows:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                     Budget Estimate       Final Bill
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Federal Assistance Grants
    State Homeland Security Grant        $616,186,000       $520,000,000
     Program......................
    (Operation Stonegarden).......       (90,000,000)       (90,000,000)
    (Tribal Security Grants)......       (15,000,000)       (15,000,000)
    (Non-profit Security).........      (180,000,000)              - - -
    Urban Area Security Initiative        711,184,000        615,000,000
    (Non-profit Security).........      (180,000,000)              - - -
    Non-Profit Security Grants....              - - -        305,000,000
    Public Transportation Security        100,000,000        105,000,000
     Assistance...................
    (Amtrak Security).............       (10,000,000)       (10,000,000)
    (Over-the-Road Bus Security)..        (2,000,000)        (2,000,000)
    Port Security Grants..........        100,000,000        100,000,000
    Assistance to Firefighter             370,000,000        360,000,000
     Grants.......................
    Staffing for Adequate Fire and        370,000,000        360,000,000
     Emergency Response (SAFER)
     Grants.......................
    Emergency Management                  355,000,000        355,000,000
     Performance Grants...........
    Critical Infrastructure                80,000,000              - - -
     Cybersecurity Grant Program..
    Flood Hazard Mapping and Risk         350,000,000        312,750,000
     Analysis Program (RiskMAP)...
    Regional Catastrophic                  12,000,000         12,000,000
     Preparedness Grants..........
    Emergency Food and Shelter....        154,000,000        130,000,000
    (Humanitarian Assistance).....       (24,000,000)              - - -
    Next Generation Warning System              - - -         56,000,000
    Community Project Funding/                  - - -        335,145,000
     Congressionally Directed
     Spending Grants..............
                                   -------------------------------------
        Subtotal, Grants..........      3,218,370,000      3,565,895,000
Education, Training, and Exercises
    Center for Domestic                    71,031,000         71,031,000
     Preparedness.................
    Center for Homeland Defense            18,000,000         18,000,000
     and Security.................
    Emergency Management Institute         30,777,000         30,777,000
    U.S. Fire Administration......         58,287,000         58,287,000
    National Domestic Preparedness        101,000,000        101,000,000
     Consortium...................
    Continuing Training Grants....         12,000,000         16,000,000
    National Exercise Program.....         21,024,000         21,024,000
                                   -------------------------------------
        Subtotal, Education,              312,119,000        316,119,000
         Training, and Exercises..
                                   -------------------------------------
        Subtotal, Federal               3,530,489,000      3,882,014,000
         Assistance...............
    Targeted Violence and                (20,000,000)       (20,000,000)
     Terrorism Prevention Grants
     (by transfer)................
    Alternatives to Detention Case        (5,000,000)       (20,000,000)
     Management (by transfer).....
    Shelter and Services Program                - - -      (800,000,000)
     (by transfer)................
                                   -------------------------------------
        Total, Federal Assistance      $3,555,489,000     $4,722,014,000
         (including transfers)....
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Combating Domestic Violent Extremism.--The agreement 
     directs FEMA to post a public report detailing the use of 
     fiscal year 2021 and 2022 State Homeland Security Grant 
     Program and Urban Area Security Initiative grants related to 
     combating domestic violent extremism within 90 days of the 
     date of enactment of this Act.
       Community Project Funding and Congressionally Directed 
     Spending.--The agreement provides $335,145,000 for Community 
     Project Funding (CPF) and Congressionally Directed Spending 
     (CDS) Grants. Although CPF/CDS project award amounts are not 
     available for the management and administration (M&A) costs 
     of states, the total includes $15,960,933 for the 
     reimbursement of state M&A costs, which may not exceed an 
     amount equal to 5 percent of the total award amount for each 
     project. However, state recipients may use other eligible 
     funds, including their own funds, in addition to the amount 
     provided in this bill for CPF and CDS M&A. In addition to 
     their own funds, subrecipients may use CPF/CDS project award 
     funds for M&A to the extent it is permitted by the relevant 
     FEMA guidance.
       Continuing Training Grants.--The agreement includes 
     $16,000,000 for Continuing Training Grants, including not 
     less than $3,000,000 to be competitively awarded for FEMA-
     certified rural and tribal training; $2,000,000 for FEMA to 
     partner with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) 
     Unmanned Aircraft Center of Excellence to conduct a regional 
     training program for SLTT responders in using UAS for 
     disaster preparedness and response; and $8,000,000 for 
     activities of the National Cybersecurity Preparedness 
     Consortium (NCPC).
       NCPC is directed to provide to the Committees, by not later 
     than the end of fiscal year 2023, a comprehensive report 
     detailing recommendations for establishing multi-year 
     curricula to improve cybersecurity preparedness among SLTT 
     governments that utilize the Consortium's services.
       Flood Mapping.--FEMA is directed to brief the Committees 
     within 60 days of the date of enactment of this Act on its 
     flood mapping plan for fiscal year 2023.
       Grant Considerations.--When awarding grants, the 
     Administrator shall consider the needs of cybersecurity 
     preparedness and planning, state court cybersecurity, 911 
     call capability, alert and warning capabilities, 
     implementation of the REAL ID Act (Public Law 109-13), and 
     countering targeted violence and terrorism prevention 
     programs.
       Light Detection and Ranging.--FEMA is directed to obligate 
     not less than the fiscal year 2022 funding level for Light 
     Detection and Ranging surveys based on flood risk.
       Local Control Pilot Study and Assessment.--Within 180 days 
     of the date of enactment of this Act, FEMA shall brief the 
     Committees on its plan to conduct a pilot study and 
     assessment on a local control option for offsetting the 
     impacts of a physical revision of flood insurance rate maps 
     for eligible communities. Prior to the briefing, FEMA shall 
     confer with the Committees to ensure its technical aspects 
     will align with the Committees' intent.
       Regional Catastrophic Preparedness Grant Program.--FEMA is 
     directed to prioritize the use of funding to formalize new or 
     sustain existing working groups for continued effective 
     coordination; ensure synchronization of plans and shared best 
     practices; implement citizen and community preparedness 
     campaigns; and pre-position needed commodities and equipment. 
     FEMA is further directed to consider the needs of both areas 
     at risk of natural and man-made catastrophes, and other 
     directly or indirectly affected communities.
       RiskMAP Urban Flood Mapping Program.--FEMA is reminded of 
     the requirement to brief the Committees within 30 days of the 
     completion of Fiscal Year 2020 Urban Area Flooding Pilot 
     activities and to make related recommendations, including 
     whether a permanent program should be established.
       Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response 
     (SAFER).--FEMA is directed to provide a briefing to the 
     Committees, within 90 days of the date of enactment of this 
     Act, detailing SAFER grant awards by state for fiscal years 
     2019 through 2022, delineated by funding provided to career 
     and volunteer fire departments.
       United States Fire Administration (USFA).--FEMA is directed 
     to continue to provide funding for the congressionally-
     mandated National Fallen Firefighters Memorial. Within 
     180 days of the date of enactment of this Act, USFA is 
     directed to provide a briefing to the Committees on any 
     plans to revise Emergency Support Function (ESF)-4, 
     Firefighting, to clarify or change USFA's role in 
     responding to structural fires and wildland fires that 
     expand into the Wildland Urban Interface. The briefing 
     shall also address plans for improving data collection 
     efforts, including efforts to upgrade or replace the 
     National Fire Incident Reporting System.
       CBP Shelter and Services Program (SSP).--The bill transfers 
     $800,000,000 for CBP's Shelter and Services Program from 
     CBP's Operations and Support account to FEMA for 
     administration.
       FEMA and CBP shall brief the Committees within 180 days of 
     the date of enactment of this Act on the process and timeline 
     for establishing the program, including any potential 
     change--statutory or otherwise--that would help maximize the 
     program's efficiency and effectiveness. In order to avoid any 
     interruption in support for CBP short-term holding facility 
     decompression, up to $785,000,000 of the amount provided for 
     SSP in fiscal year 2023 is available for allocation through 
     the Emergency Food and Shelter Program-Humanitarian (EFSP-H), 
     including up to $50,000,000 that may be used for the 
     construction and expansion of shelter facilities (see further 
     description, below). FEMA and CBP should continue to work 
     cooperatively with non-governmental organizations (NGO) and 
     state and local governments to fund eligible costs of 
     providing temporary

[[Page S8569]]

     shelter and related services to individuals released from DHS 
     custody.
       Within 90 days of the date of enactment of this Act and 
     quarterly thereafter, FEMA shall brief the Committees on 
     funding awarded since fiscal year 2019 through EFSP-H, to 
     include details on the amounts awarded to each recipient and 
     the lowest level of data available from recipients (to 
     include invoices, as necessary), along with administrative 
     costs incurred by FEMA or the Emergency Food and Shelter 
     National Board.
       In addition, within 180 days of the date of enactment of 
     this Act, CBP and FEMA shall provide a report to the 
     Committees on the planned or actual date(s) of the notice(s) 
     of funding opportunity (NOFO) for the SSP; planned and actual 
     obligations and outlays; funding awarded to each governmental 
     and non-governmental recipient; reimbursements to-date for 
     fiscal year 2023 for both governmental and non-governmental 
     organizations; a description of SSP program goals, policies, 
     and program structure; an SSP award allocation methodology 
     that depends to the greatest extent possible on available 
     border data; and outcome performance measures and results 
     related to achieving program goals. The initial briefing 
     shall include an analysis of challenges and impediments CBP 
     and FEMA may have in providing data to the Committees related 
     to sheltering requirements and a description of the 
     strategies in place to overcome these issues.
       Under the new SSP, the permissible use of funding includes 
     the construction and expansion of shelter facilities to help 
     address shelter capacity constraints, particularly in border 
     areas with consistently high numbers of individuals crossing 
     the border between the ports of entry. During the fiscal year 
     2023 transition to SSP, a limited amount of EFSP-H funding is 
     made available, at the discretion of the Board and in 
     consultation with CBP and FEMA, for the construction and 
     expansion of state, local, or NGO shelter facilities. This 
     authority provides flexibility in meeting shelter capacity 
     requirements as part of an overall strategy to maximize the 
     use of shelter capacity in support of decompressing CBP 
     short-term holding facilities. FEMA and the Board shall 
     notify the Committees at least 15 days in advance of awarding 
     any EFSP-H funds for shelter construction or expansion.

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                          DISASTER RELIEF FUND

       The agreement provides $19,945,000,000, an increase of 
     $205,000,000 above the request. The total amount is 
     appropriated under the budget cap adjustment for major 
     disaster response and recovery activities. No funds are 
     provided for base DRF activities due to a significant 
     carryover balance in the base account.
       Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC).--
     The Capability and Capacity Building activity shall be funded 
     at no less than $1,500,000 per state as defined by section 
     102(4) of the Stafford Act in fiscal year 2023.
       Disaster Declaration Process.--FEMA is directed to consult 
     with states, including those with large populations, on the 
     policy of considering population size when determining the 
     assistance criteria for Public Assistance. Within 270 days of 
     the date of enactment of this Act, FEMA shall provide a 
     briefing to the Committees on the results of the 
     consultation.
       GAO Review of FEMA COVID-19 Funding.--GAO is directed to 
     conduct a comprehensive audit and review of FEMA's role in 
     the response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including types of 
     projects submitted, approved, and not approved for award; 
     FEMA use of financial controls to ensure project award 
     eligibility and the prevention of awards that duplicate other 
     federal funding awards; FEMA's forecasting methodologies for 
     future COVID-19-related obligations and FEMA's 
     incorporation of lessons learned into such methodologies; 
     and recipients' processes to ensure FEMA funding is used 
     for only eligible costs.
       The Agreement directs the Comptroller General to brief the 
     Committees on its preliminary findings not later than one 
     year after the date of enactment of this Act, and to provide 
     a full report on the findings of the review to the same 
     Committees at a date agreed upon at a preliminary briefing.
       Improving access to BRIC.--Within 90 days of the date of 
     enactment of this Act, FEMA shall brief the Committees on 
     challenges states face in accessing BRIC grants.
       Natural Infrastructure Activities.--Within 180 days of the 
     date of enactment of this Act, FEMA shall provide the 
     Committees a report on the number, total requested funding, 
     and percentage of fiscal year 2021 BRIC applications for 
     natural infrastructure projects, and a comparison of these 
     numbers to the fiscal year 2020 grant cycle. The report shall 
     be disaggregated by successful and unsuccessful applications 
     and describe the types of natural infrastructure activities 
     funded.
       FEMA may utilize public/private partnerships, pursuant to 
     16 U.S.C. 3701 and 16 U.S.C. 3709, to enhance and leverage 
     nature-based infrastructure within the BRIC and pre-disaster 
     mitigation programs through one or more pilot projects. Such 
     projects should provide additional expedited and streamlined 
     opportunities for communities, including disadvantaged 
     communities, to utilize funding for enhancing nature-based 
     strategies that provide resilience and protection against 
     natural threats, including but not limited to coastal and 
     inland flooding, wildland fires, and drought.
       Public Assistance Briefings.--FEMA is reminded of the 
     overdue Public Assistance briefings described in House Report 
     117-396 and is directed to provide these briefings as soon as 
     possible.


                     NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE FUND

       The agreement includes $225,000,000 for the National Flood 
     Insurance Fund, consistent with the budget request.

                  TITLE III--ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS

       Section 301. The agreement includes a provision making 
     ``Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency--
     Operations and Support'' funding available for procuring and 
     providing cybersecurity threat feeds to CISA stakeholders and 
     partners.
       Section 302. The agreement includes a provision regarding 
     quarterly budget and staffing briefings for CISA.
       Section 303. The agreement modifies a provision limiting 
     expenses for administration of grants.
       Section 304. The agreement includes a provision clarifying 
     the allocation of funds for the State Homeland Security Grant 
     Program.
       Section 305. The agreement continues a provision specifying 
     timeframes for information on certain grant awards.
       Section 306. The agreement continues and modifies a 
     provision requiring a five-day advance notification for 
     certain grant awards under ``Federal Emergency Management 
     Agency--Federal Assistance.''
       Section 307. The agreement continues a provision that 
     addresses the availability of certain grant funds for the 
     installation of communications towers.
       Section 308. The agreement continues a provision requiring 
     a report on the expenditures of the DRF.
       Section 309. The agreement continues a provision permitting 
     waivers to certain SAFER grant program requirements.
       Section 310. The agreement continues a provision providing 
     for the receipt and expenditure of fees collected for the 
     Radiological Emergency Preparedness Program, as authorized by 
     Public Law 105-276.
       Section 311. The agreement continues a provision permitting 
     waivers to certain Assistance to Firefighter Grants program 
     requirements.

        TITLE IV--RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT, TRAINING, AND SERVICES

           United States Citizenship And Immigration Services


                         OPERATIONS AND SUPPORT

       The agreement provides $242,981,000 for operations and 
     support, of which $109,611,000 is for the E-Verify program 
     and $133,370,000 is for refugee processing, as requested. 
     Given projected carryover balances for fiscal year 2024, the 
     agreement does not provide funding for backlog reduction for 
     fiscal year 2023.
       Asylum Processing.--Not later than 90 days after the date 
     of enactment of this Act, USCIS shall provide a report to the 
     Committees that details its efforts to reduce the backlog of 
     asylum applications, while ensuring that asylum applicants 
     are properly reviewed for security purposes. USCIS shall 
     coordinate with relevant federal agencies that provide 
     services to individuals who have been granted asylum to 
     ensure that such persons are appropriately referred and 
     informed of available services. Not later than 90 days after 
     the date of enactment of this Act, USCIS shall provide a 
     briefing to the Committees on efforts to refer asylees for 
     services.
       Backlog Reporting.--USCIS shall provide the Committees a 
     plan, within 60 days of the date of enactment of this Act, to 
     establish a quarterly, public report on all backlogs, 
     frontlogs, and pending forms for all form types. The report 
     shall include the number of applicants or petitioners in each 
     USCIS backlog, frontlog, or pending status, including 
     beneficiaries where applicable, by form type; and shall 
     include the length of the status associated with the relevant 
     form type. Additionally, within 180 days of the date of 
     enactment of this Act, USCIS shall provide a briefing to the 
     Committees on a plan for addressing ongoing backlogs and 
     frontlogs.
       Budget and Productivity Reporting.--USCIS shall provide 
     semi-annual briefings to the Committees on budget operations, 
     including revenue projections, actual spending, and other 
     financial forecasts. At a minimum, the briefing shall detail 
     spending by directorate and office, with comparisons to 
     initial projections; revenue and expenses delineated by form 
     type; other agency expenses, including payments or transfers 
     to other federal agencies; and carryover or reserve fund 
     projections and spending. USCIS shall ensure the agency 
     maintains a sufficient carryover balance to provide stability 
     amid fluctuating receipts. Additionally, USCIS shall 
     establish a baseline for current application and petition 
     processing capacity, along with metrics for measuring the 
     impact of investments in personnel, technology, and changes 
     to processes and policies on productivity. Updates on USCIS 
     performance against these metrics shall be included with the 
     briefings.
       Budget Justification Materials.--USCIS shall provide 
     additional detailed information and accounting level data in 
     its future budget justification materials to ensure 
     transparency and executability. Such details shall include 
     additional information regarding each adjustment to base and 
     program change from the prior year for each PPA, including 
     the PPAs within the Immigration Examinations Fee Account 
     (IEFA) and at the office-level for the Administration PPA. 
     Within 30 days of the date of enactment of this Act, USCIS 
     shall confer with the Committees on the PPA structure to 
     be used for future budget requests.
       Data on Asylum Operations.--USCIS is directed to continue 
     to make available, on a publicly accessible website in a 
     downloadable, searchable, and sortable format, a report 
     containing not less than the previous 12 months of 
     semimonthly data on:
       (1) the number of noncitizens determined to have a credible 
     or reasonable fear of--
       (a) persecution, as defined in section 235(b)(1)(B)(v) of 
     the Immigration and Nationality Act; or
       (b) torture, as defined in section 208.30 of title 8, Code 
     of Federal Regulations (as in effect on January 1, 2018);
       (2) the total number of cases received by U.S. Citizenship 
     and Immigration Services to adjudicate credible or reasonable 
     fear claims, as described in paragraph (1), and the total 
     number of cases closed; and
       (3) the total pending asylum operations workload.
       Such report shall also disaggregate the data described 
     above with respect to the following subsets:
       (1) claims submitted by aliens detained at a U.S. 
     Immigration and Customs Enforcement family residential center 
     or an emergency family shelter;
       (2) claims submitted by aliens, organized by each 
     subdivision of legal or administrative authority under which 
     claims are reviewed; and
       (3) the job series of the personnel reviewing the claims.
       Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this 
     Act, and quarterly thereafter, USCIS shall provide a briefing 
     to the Committees on the implementation of the Credible Fear 
     and Asylum Processing Interim Final Rule. The briefing shall 
     include data on the number of credible fear interviews and 
     Asylum Merits Interviews conducted; outcomes of such 
     interviews, including, but not limited to, the number 
     approved, denied, administratively closed, and pending cases; 
     the Field Office location of such interviews; and whether the 
     individual was represented. USCIS shall report publicly the 
     number of individuals referred to immigration or criminal 
     proceedings, or otherwise referred for an enforcement action.
       Electronic Processing.--USCIS shall provide a semi-annual 
     briefing to the Committees on its electronic processing 
     efforts, as described

[[Page S8580]]

     in the explanatory statement accompanying the fiscal year 
     2022 funding Act (Public Law 117-103), including its efforts 
     to establish a centralized mechanism for asylum seekers to 
     apply for employment authorization online. Further, USCIS 
     shall explore options, including through technology, to 
     increase access to interviews and other processes for 
     individuals who may not be geographically located near a 
     USCIS Field Office.
       E-Verify.--Within 90 days of the date of enactment of this 
     Act, USCIS shall provide a briefing on the status of its 
     plans to modernize and improve the quality and accuracy of 
     information submitted into the E-Verify system, including the 
     status of its efforts to implement an appeal process for a 
     non-confirmation within the E-Verify system.
       Employment Authorizations.--USCIS shall ensure all 
     regulatory, statutory, and court-ordered or stipulated 
     agreement timelines are met for all applications for 
     employment authorization. Not later than 90 days after the 
     date of enactment of this Act, and quarterly thereafter, 
     USCIS is directed to make available on a publicly accessible 
     website:
       (1) the total number of pending employment authorization 
     applications filed; and
       (2) the total number of such applications that have been 
     pending for 60 or fewer days, 61-90 days, 91-120 days, 121-
     179 days, and 180 or more days.
       The website shall also summarize, on an annual basis, all 
     existing processing time goals, the source of the time goal, 
     and whether the agency met the time goal for the prior fiscal 
     year.
       Fee Waivers and Exemptions.--Within 60 days of the date of 
     enactment of this Act and quarterly thereafter, the 
     Department shall provide the Committees with updated reports 
     on all applications and petitions for which fees are waived 
     and any budgetary impacts resulting from the issuances of 
     such waivers.
       H-2A and H-2B Visas.--USCIS shall, in coordination with the 
     Department of Labor's Office of Foreign Labor Certification, 
     timely post public information provided by employers on Form 
     I-129 and associated filings regarding recruiters, recruiting 
     agents, or agencies they plan to use. USCIS shall also 
     establish a process whereby workers may confirm that they are 
     the beneficiaries of H-2A or H-2B petitions and can receive 
     information about their own immigration status, including 
     their authorized period of stay and the status of any 
     requested visa extensions.
       Military Naturalization Applications.--The briefing 
     required under this heading in House Report 117-396 shall be 
     due not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of 
     this Act.
       Refugee Admissions.--The agreement provides sufficient 
     resources for USCIS to meet the Presidential Determination on 
     refugee admissions for the fiscal year. Within 90 days of the 
     date of enactment of this Act, USCIS shall provide a briefing 
     to the Committees on its detailed plan to achieve the 
     Presidential Determination on refugee admissions for Fiscal 
     Year 2023. The briefing shall include, for fiscal year 2022, 
     the information identified under this heading in the 
     explanatory statement accompanying the fiscal year 2022 
     funding Act (Public Law 117-103) related to staffing, 
     interviews, approvals, and denials. USCIS shall examine 
     whether any burdensome administrative or inefficiencies 
     currently exist in the refugee admissions process including 
     whether any duplicative fingerprint requirements exist that 
     slow refugee admissions and shall include such information in 
     the briefing to the Committees.
       Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) Applications.--Not later 
     than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act and 
     quarterly thereafter, USCIS shall make the following 
     information available on a publicly accessible website:
       (1) the total number of SIJ petitions pending before USCIS 
     and the length of time each case has been pending;
       (2) the total number of SIJ adjudications, broken down by 
     grant or denial and the average length of time SIJ petitions 
     were pending prior to adjudication, decision, or issuance of 
     a Request for Evidence (RFE) or Notice of Intent to Deny 
     (NOID);
       (3) the total number of RFEs and NOIDs issued; and
       (4) the total numbers of SIJ petitions that have been 
     pending for 60 or fewer days, 61-90 days, 91-120 days, 121-
     179 days, and 180 or more days.
       Voter Registration for New Citizens.--Not later than 120 
     days after the date of enactment of this Act, USCIS shall 
     provide a briefing to the Committees regarding the status of 
     its efforts in each field office to facilitate the 
     registration of U.S. Citizens upon completion of their oath 
     ceremonies. At a minimum, the briefing shall include details 
     on agreements and partnerships with the appropriate state or 
     local officials or agencies, or non-profits, as appropriate, 
     and how USCIS works with the appropriate entities to 
     electronically transfer voter information, or to pursue other 
     avenues to reduce paperwork and facilitate voter registration 
     for these individuals upon successfully obtaining U.S. 
     Citizenship.
       Workload Staffing Modeling.--Not later than 120 days after 
     the date of enactment of this Act, USCIS shall provide a 
     briefing to the Committees that updates the information 
     required under this heading in the explanatory statement 
     accompanying the fiscal year 2022 funding Act (Public Law 
     117-103). The briefing shall include data outputs from the 
     Staffing Allocation Model and the Model of Operational 
     Planning in order to provide the Committees a better 
     understanding of what the budget request and anticipated fee 
     funded resources will support and the associated projections 
     for improvements in performance.


                           FEDERAL ASSISTANCE

       The agreement provides $25,000,000 to support the 
     Citizenship and Integration Grant Program. Additionally, 
     USCIS continues to have the authority to accept private 
     donations to support this program.

                Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers


                         OPERATIONS AND SUPPORT

       The agreement provides $695,000 below the request for a 
     transfer to PC&I for the purchase of Vogel Road.
       Interagency Training Centers.--The Department shall 
     continue working with the Department of the Army and with the 
     National Guard, as well as state and local leaders, to 
     identify opportunities to expand domestic training locations 
     on federal or state property, particularly in regions like 
     the Northeast that lack facilities for training related to 
     active shooters, dense urban terrain, and cyber and 
     electromagnetic response.


              PROCUREMENT, CONSTRUCTION, AND IMPROVEMENTS

       The agreement provides $10,695,000 above the request, 
     including $10,000,000 for the Charleston Construction Project 
     and a transfer of $695,000 from O&S for the purchase of Vogel 
     Road.

                   Science and Technology Directorate


                         OPERATIONS AND SUPPORT

       The agreement provides $31,000,000 above the budget request 
     for operations and support, which is described in further 
     detail below. Of the total amount provided for this account, 
     $219,897,000 is available until September 30, 2024, for 
     Laboratory Facilities and Acquisition and Operations 
     Analysis.

                         Laboratory Facilities

       Work for Others (WFO).--S&T shall provide a briefing to the 
     Committees not later than 120 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act on the implementation and execution of 
     the WFO program, including actions it is taking to ensure the 
     program is supported, without disruption, into the future. 
     The briefing shall include a review of the current execution 
     of the program and identify whether there is full cost 
     recovery for WFO projects and activities.

                  Acquisition and Operations Analysis

       Border Security Capabilities and Performance Measurement.--
     S&T shall provide to the Committees, within 90 days of the 
     date of enactment of this Act, an initial report that 
     includes a preliminary assessment of the efficacy and impact 
     of technological solutions acquired and deployed within the 
     past 5 years, personnel levels, and other related investments 
     to address current border security needs. Within one year of 
     enactment of this Act, S&T shall provide a final report to 
     the Committees that includes:
       (1) a final assessment of the efficacy and impact of border 
     investments deployed within the past 5 years to address 
     border protection needs;
       (2) recommendations for a decision support tool 
     architecture that supports deployment of future technology 
     solutions; and
       (3) an action plan based on the analyses and assessments.
       Measuring Impact of Efforts to Combat Forced Labor.--To 
     accelerate capabilities to prevent the entry of goods subject 
     to Section 307 of the Tariff Act of 1930 (19 U.S.C. 1307), 
     the agreement provides $2,500,000 above the request to 
     develop, in partnership with CBP's Office of Trade, analytic 
     capabilities to assess the impact of Department and CBP 
     actions and investments on world-wide forced labor levels and 
     how those investments impact U.S. businesses.
       Projecting and Planning for Future Flow to U.S. Southwest 
     Border.--The agreement provides $8,000,000 above the request 
     to expand and evolve the interagency models used to project 
     impacts to federal agencies from the changing flow of 
     migrants crossing the border, as well as the effect of 
     changes in policies and agency resources. A primary objective 
     is to model the different processing pathways for noncitizens 
     encountered at the border based on their demographics (e.g., 
     single adults, family units, and unaccompanied children) and 
     then apply predictive tools to help establish a shared 
     baseline across all agencies and community partners that play 
     a role in managing that processing.
       Working with the Department's Office of the Chief Financial 
     Officer (OCFO), Office of Policy (including the Office of 
     Immigration Statistics (OIS)), and operational components, 
     S&T shall collaborate with the Departments of Justice and 
     Health and Human Services to share model outputs that can 
     inform the development of agency budget requests. Not later 
     than 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act, S&T, 
     the Office of Policy, OCFO, and the relevant DHS operational 
     partners shall provide a briefing to the Committees on the 
     planned execution of these funds and a timeframe for delivery 
     of model outputs to all impacted agencies.
       Support Anti-Terrorism by Fostering Effective Technologies 
     (SAFETY) Act.--The agreement provides $4,000,000 above the 
     request for the Office of SAFETY Act Implementation (OSAI). 
     Not later than nine months after the date of enactment of 
     this Act, OSAI shall deploy a public-facing dashboard to 
     document the progress in achieving the objectives established 
     under the SAFETY Act implementation regulations, including 
     monthly performance metric updates. Such metrics shall 
     include, but not be limited to:

[[Page S8581]]

       (1) applications submitted for developmental test and 
     evaluation designation, full designation, and certification, 
     including renewals, modifications, transfers, and pre-
     applications;
       (2) the number of applications in evaluation beyond both 
     120 and 165 days, by application type; and
       (3) processing timelines associated with issuing 
     completeness determinations and rendering final decisions, by 
     application type.
       System of Systems Operational Analytics (SoSOA).--To expand 
     upon the services the SoSOA team can provide, the agreement 
     provides $5,500,000 above the request, of which $4,000,000 is 
     in the Acquisition and Operations Analysis PPA and $1,500,000 
     is in the Mission Support PPA for additional staffing. Not 
     later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this 
     Act and quarterly thereafter, S&T shall brief the 
     Committees on the execution of these funds and the 
     projects the SoSOA team is supporting.

                            Mission Support

       The agreement provides $12,500,000 above the request for 
     the Mission Support PPA, including $5,500,000 for the Chief 
     Information Office to sustain core operational requirements 
     and for a systems refresh; $4,500,000 for contract 
     acquisition program support; $500,000 for counsel detailees 
     supporting OSAI; $1,500,000 for SoSOA, as described above; 
     and $500,000 for the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Technology 
     Center, as described in House Report 117--396.


              PROCUREMENT, CONSTRUCTION, AND IMPROVEMENTS

       The agreement provides $35,750,000, as requested, for 
     critical improvements to S&T's laboratory facilities; 
     $13,466,000, as requested, for the Plum Island Closure and 
     Support (PICS) Program; and $6,000,000 for the design and 
     environmental planning of the Detection Sciences Testing and 
     Applied Research (DSTAR) Center, a reduction of $34,250,000 
     below the request.
       National Biodefense Analysis and Countermeasures Center 
     (NBACC).--S&T shall ensure that the NBACC facility expansion 
     scoping study described in the request is completed and is 
     directed to provide a briefing to the Committees on the 
     results not later than 150 days after the date of enactment 
     of this Act.
       Plum Island Closure and Support (PICS) Program.--The 
     agreement provides $13,466,000 to continue the transition, 
     closure, and conveyance of all Plum Island real property and 
     all related personal property prior to the transfer of the 
     Plum Island Animal Disease Center's (PIADC) operational and 
     programmatic missions to the National Bio and Agro-Defense 
     Facility (NBAF). S&T is encouraged to establish a cooperative 
     agreement to administer funding for a facilitated process 
     that can enable stakeholders to conduct an ecosystem study of 
     Plum Island's native wildlife and natural habitat in the 
     conservation area.
       With the transition of the PIADC science mission activities 
     to the NBAF, currently scheduled for completion in fiscal 
     year 2024, S&T shall continue to provide semi-annual 
     briefings on the progress of these activities, as specified 
     in the explanatory report accompanying Public Law 116-260. 
     S&T shall also notify the Committees in these briefings of 
     any foreseeable issues with the continuation at NBAF of any 
     DHS essential mission activities that were performed by the 
     Department at PIADC, along with steps that the Department is 
     considering to avoid interruption. Further, not later than 
     120 days after the date of enactment of this Act, S&T, in 
     consultation with the Department of Agriculture, shall 
     provide a briefing to the Committees on the full transition 
     schedule and projected milestones, including any risk factors 
     that may impact timelines and corresponding budget estimates. 
     The briefing shall also include details regarding:
       (1) the activities each department intends to conduct and 
     the anticipated personnel and resources to be assigned to 
     NBAF, particularly those outlined in Section 5(J) of the 
     National Security Memorandum on ``Strengthening the Security 
     and Resilience of United States Food and Agriculture'' (NSM-
     16) (November 10, 2022); and
       (2) the continuity plans for legacy Agricultural Research 
     Service, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, and DHS 
     collaborative efforts that were conducted at PIADC that 
     should be transitioned to NBAF, including but not limited to:
       (a) the Targeted Advanced Development (TAD) Group;
       (b) PANTHR/TIGER studies for threat and risk assessments;
       (c) agent characterization of cross-over threats for the 
     Intelligence Community; and
       (d) initiatives that fall under Other Transaction Authority 
     (OTA).
       Transportation Security Laboratory (TSL) DSTAR Center.--The 
     agreement provides partial funding of $6,000,000 for planning 
     and design activities for DSTAR, pending receipt of an up-to-
     date detailed project cost estimate and schedule. Concurrent 
     with the President's fiscal year 2024 budget request, S&T 
     shall provide a detailed project schedule and milestones 
     assessment for construction of the DSTAR Center, including a 
     revised cost estimate that reflects the TSL's up-to-date 
     requirements for the center and current market conditions.


                        RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

       The agreement provides $2,500,000 above the request for 
     University Programs.
       Despite the direction below to consider funding above the 
     request within S&T's various thrust areas, overall funding 
     for Research, Development, and Innovation is provided at the 
     request level. Accordingly, S&T shall notify the Committees 
     not fewer than 30 days in advance of any reduction, 
     discontinuation, or transfer of custody from the 
     Undersecretary for Science and Technology of any R&D activity 
     described in the request, including reductions taken to 
     redirect funding for any effort described below.

                 Research, Development, and Innovation

       Increased Early Collaboration with Stakeholders.--Within 90 
     days of the date of enactment of this Act, S&T shall provide 
     a briefing to the Committees on its early-outreach efforts, 
     including the pros and cons of a creating a formal forum or 
     portal for interested stakeholders and partners to share 
     perspectives on future research.
       Transitioning New Capabilities to Operational Components.--
     To better account for both the impact of R&D funding and how 
     those resources improve the Department's operational 
     capabilities, S&T shall provide a briefing to the Committees 
     within 45 days of the date of enactment of this Act on a plan 
     to partner with DHS components to develop key measures to 
     capture that impact and quantify a return on investment. 
     Within 60 days of the date of enactment of this Act, S&T 
     shall provide the Committees examples of the impact of not 
     fewer than three R&D projects.

                            Border Security

       Within the Border Security thrust area, S&T shall consider 
     funding for the following: up to $4,000,000 above the request 
     for work related to enabling unmanned aerial systems (UAS) to 
     support DHS operational entities and for work related to 
     addressing threats posed by UAS, including small UAS, in the 
     border, maritime, and urban environments; up to $2,000,000 
     above the request for expansion of Low-Cost Team Awareness 
     Kits (TAK); up to $4,736,000 above the request for port of 
     entry (POE) data analytic capabilities for the detection and 
     disruption of illegal activity while expediting processing; 
     up to $5,000,000 above the request for development and 
     deployment of active neutron interrogation for cargo 
     screening; and up to $3,000,000 above the request to address 
     threats facing port and maritime critical infrastructure.

           Chemical, Biological, and Explosive (CBE) Defense

       Within the CBE Defense thrust area, S&T shall consider 
     funding for the following: up to $6,000,000 above the request 
     for next generation biosurveillance systems; and up to 
     $8,300,000 for the detection canine program.
       Opioid and Fentanyl Detection.--S&T shall provide a report 
     to the Committees within 180 days of the date of enactment of 
     this Act on any research or development activity that 
     incorporates rapid scanning into screening methods for drug 
     interdiction.

                   Cybersecurity/Information Analysis

       Within the Cybersecurity/Information Analysis thrust area, 
     S&T shall consider funding for the following: up to 
     $5,000,000 above the request for voting technologies and 
     election data security procedures; up to $4,000,000 above the 
     request for cyber defense/incident response capabilities for 
     chemical sector critical infrastructure; and up to $6,000,000 
     for the U.S.-Israel Cybersecurity Cooperation grant program, 
     as authorized by section 1551 of the National Defense 
     Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022; and up to $2,000,000 
     above the request to continue efforts to ensure the 
     effectiveness of cyber training for law enforcement and 
     vulnerable populations.

                  First Responder/Disaster Resilience

       Within the First Responder/Disaster Resilience thrust area, 
     S&T shall consider funding for the following: up to 
     $4,000,000 above the request to develop and deploy software 
     quality assurance tools for monitoring and timely cyber-
     attack mitigation for critical infrastructure and to complete 
     the requirements for federal contracts specified in Executive 
     Order 13905--Strengthening National Resilience Through 
     Responsible Use of Positioning, Navigation, and Timing 
     Services (February 18, 2020); up to $9,000,000 above the 
     request for exploitation of mesonets for emergency 
     preparedness and response to provide advance warning of 
     severe weather conditions, for developing capabilities for 
     maintaining and improving the integrity of the nation's levee 
     and dams systems, and for research into viable alternatives 
     of concrete dam design and performance; up to $1,500,000 
     above the request for research on advanced modeling and 
     three-dimensional (3D) simulation technologies that support 
     FEMA disaster resilience, mitigation, and recovery 
     operations; $5,000,000 above the request for the Research and 
     Prototyping for Improvised Explosive Device Defeat (RAPID) 
     program; and up to $9,000,000 to further expand the 
     Distributed Environment for Critical Infrastructure Decision-
     making Exercises program, focusing on industrial control 
     systems for multi-sector cyber event exercises.
       Advanced Modeling and 3D Simulation Technologies.--In lieu 
     of the direction provided in House Report 117-396, S&T shall 
     assist, as needed, FEMA OR&R in the analysis described under 
     the FEMA O&S heading, ``Advanced Modeling and 3D Technology'' 
     above.
       RAPID.--Not later than 120 days after the date of enactment 
     of this Act, S&T shall provide a briefing to the Committees 
     on the planned obligation of funds for RAPID; developing 
     technologies; and transition/training efforts to support 
     public safety across the nation.

[[Page S8582]]

  


               Innovative Research and Foundational Tools

       Within the Innovative Research and Foundational Tools 
     thrust area, S&T shall consider funding for the following: up 
     to $2,000,000 above the request for the Binational Industrial 
     Research and Development Homeland Security (BIRD HLS) 
     program; up to $10,000,000 above the request to support any 
     required additional funding for container demonstrations to 
     expedite transition to more secure composite shipping 
     containers; up to $2,000,000 above the request for any 
     necessary efforts to continue to develop thermoplastic 
     composite materials that reduce costs and improve intrusion 
     sensor integration; up to $5,000,000 above the request for 
     work to be performed at the Artificial Intelligence (AI) 
     Technology Center; and up to $5,000,000 above the request for 
     enhancing the resiliency and reliability of domestically 
     manufactured, multi-modal wildfire fire detection systems.
       BIRD HLS.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, S&T shall provide a briefing to the 
     Committees on the outcome of each grant awarded through the 
     program and on any commercialization or transition to 
     practice that has resulted from the program's initiatives. 
     Further, S&T, in collaboration with the BIRD Foundation, 
     shall provide a report to the Committees on the status of 
     funds for the BIRD HLS and Cybersecurity programs, to include 
     a history of contributions, interest, and repayments to the 
     program, along with grant payments and any other costs 
     charged to these programs.

        Physical Security and Critical Infrastructure Resilience

       Within the Physical Security and Critical Infrastructure 
     Resilience thrust area, S&T shall consider targeting up to 
     $2,500,000 to detect hazardous materials more effectively in 
     cargo loads at POEs and improve the efficiency of screening 
     operations.

                          University Programs

       The agreement provides $2,500,000 above the request for the 
     Minority-Serving Institutions Program (MSIP).
       Centers of Excellence.--In lieu of the requirement under 
     this heading in House Report 117-396, S&T shall provide a 
     briefing to the Committees not later than 60 days after the 
     date of enactment of this Act on how DHS is leveraging 
     Emeritus COEs to address homeland security challenges.
       MSIP.--The Department shall ensure that the MSIP is open to 
     the minority-serving institutions defined in section 371(a) 
     of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1067q(a)).

             Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Office


                         OPERATIONS AND SUPPORT

       The Agreement includes the proposed funding level.
       Radiation Portal Technology Enhancement and Replacement.--
     CWMD, in collaboration with CBP, is directed to provide a 
     briefing to the Committees within 90 days of the date of 
     enactment of this Act and quarterly thereafter regarding the 
     requirements for the RAPTER program and any related progress 
     updates. CWMD shall also promptly communicate with industry 
     stakeholders a revised development strategy and timelines, 
     and when completed, the updated requirements for RAPTER or 
     any follow-on program.


              PROCUREMENT, CONSTRUCTION, AND IMPROVEMENTS

       The agreement includes a realignment of $19,900,000 from 
     the proposed amount for Research and Development for the 
     Radiation Portal Monitor (RPM) Replacement Program.
       Strategic Commercial Seaports (SCS).--CWMD is directed to 
     provide the Committees a briefing, within 90 days of the date 
     of enactment of this Act, on plans to procure and install 
     RPMs at SCS locations designated by the U.S. Department of 
     Transportation Maritime Administration and the U.S. 
     Department of Defense Military Surface Deployment and 
     Distribution Command. The briefing shall include the 
     Department's recommendation on the appropriate number of 
     functioning and staffed RPMs for each dedicated ingress/
     egress gate at each SCS, along with the estimated costs, 
     including total acquisition, operations, and maintenance 
     costs and associated costs for any necessary infrastructure 
     enhancements or configuration changes at each POE; and a 
     proposed timeline for procurement, deployment, and 
     installation of the RPM technology.


                        RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

       The Agreement includes an increase of $2,000,000 for 
     Technical Forensics and realigns $19,900,000 to the 
     Procurement Construction and Improvements account for the RPM 
     Replacement Program, consistent with technical assistance 
     received from the Agency.
       National Technical Nuclear Forensics Center (NTNFC).--The 
     Agreement includes $2,000,000 above the request for the 
     NTNFC. CWMD is directed to provide the Committees a briefing 
     on NTNFC activities and capabilities within 120 days of the 
     date of enactment of this Act.


                           FEDERAL ASSISTANCE

       Biosurveillance Capabilities.--CWMD is directed to provide 
     an update on the status of the Biological Detection for the 
     Twenty-First Century (BD21) program and plans to replace 
     BioWatch capabilities within 120 days of the date of 
     enactment of this Act. The update shall address the status of 
     CWMD implementation of recommendations in GAO-21-292, ``DHS 
     Exploring New Methods to Replace BioWatch and Could Benefit 
     from Additional Guidance.''
       Securing the Cities Implementation Plan.--The Countering 
     Weapons of Mass Destruction Act of 2018 requires CWMD to 
     develop an implementation plan for the Securing the Cities 
     program that, among other things, identifies program goals 
     and a strategy for achieving them. CWMD is directed to 
     provide the Committees, within 120 days of the date of 
     enactment of this Act, an updated implementation plan for the 
     Securing the Cities program, including a detailed assessment 
     of program expenditures and their impact on achieving key 
     program milestones.

                  TITLE IV--ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS

       Section 401. The agreement continues a provision allowing 
     USCIS to acquire, operate, equip, and dispose of up to five 
     vehicles under certain scenarios.
       Section 402. The agreement continues a provision limiting 
     the use of A-76 competitions by USCIS.
       Section 403. The agreement continues a provision related to 
     the collection and use of biometrics.
       Section 404. The agreement continues a provision 
     authorizing the Director of FLETC to distribute funds for 
     expenses incurred in training accreditation.
       Section 405. The agreement continues a provision directing 
     the FLETC Accreditation Board to lead the federal law 
     enforcement training accreditation process to measure and 
     assess federal law enforcement training programs, facilities, 
     and instructors.
       Section 406. The agreement continues a provision allowing 
     the acceptance of transfers from government agencies into 
     ``Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers--Procurement, 
     Construction, and Improvements''.
       Section 407. The agreement continues a provision 
     classifying FLETC instructor staff as inherently governmental 
     for certain considerations.

                      TITLE V--GENERAL PROVISIONS


             (INCLUDING TRANSFERS AND RESCISSIONS OF FUNDS)

       Section 501. The agreement continues a provision directing 
     that no part of any appropriation shall remain available for 
     obligation beyond the current year unless expressly provided.
       Section 502. The agreement continues a provision providing 
     authority to merge unexpended balances of prior 
     appropriations with new appropriation accounts, to be used 
     for the same purpose, subject to reprogramming guidelines.
       Section 503. The agreement continues a provision related to 
     reprogramming limitations and transfer authority.
       The Department must notify the Committees on Appropriations 
     at least 15 days in advance of each reprogramming of funds 
     that would: (1) reduce programs, projects, and activities, or 
     personnel, by ten percent or more; or (2) increase a program, 
     project, or activity by more than $5,000,000 or ten percent, 
     whichever is less.
       The term ``program, project, and activity'' (PPA) is 
     defined as each functional category listed under an account 
     heading in the funding table at the back of this explanatory 
     statement, along with each funding amount designated for a 
     particular purpose within the statement narrative, exclusive 
     of simple references to increases or reductions below the 
     budget request. Funding for each PPA should not be used for 
     the purposes of any other PPA. Within 30 days of the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Department shall submit to the 
     Committees a table delineating PPAs subject to section 503 
     notification requirements.
       For purposes of reprogramming notifications, the creation 
     of a new program, project, or activity is defined as any 
     significant new activity that has not been explicitly 
     justified to the Congress in budget justification material 
     and for which funds have not been appropriated by the 
     Congress.
       Limited transfer authority is provided to give the 
     Department flexibility in responding to emerging requirements 
     and significant changes in circumstances, but is not intended 
     to facilitate the implementation of new programs, projects, 
     or activities that were not proposed in a formal budget 
     submission. Transfers may not reduce accounts by more than 
     five percent or augment appropriations by more than ten 
     percent. The Department must notify the Committees on 
     Appropriations not fewer than 30 days in advance of any 
     transfer.
       To avoid violations of the Anti-Deficiency Act, the 
     Secretary shall ensure that any transfer of funds is carried 
     out in compliance with the limitations and requirements of 
     section 503(c). In particular, the Secretary should ensure 
     that any such transfers adhere to the opinion of the 
     Comptroller General's decision in the Matter of: John D. 
     Webster, Director, Financial Services, Library of Congress, 
     dated November 7, 1997, with regard to the definition of an 
     appropriation subject to transfer limitations.
       Notifications should provide complete explanations of 
     proposed funding reallocations, including detailed 
     justifications for increases and offsets; any specific impact 
     the proposed changes are expected to have on future-year 
     appropriations requirements; a table showing the proposed 
     revisions to funding and full-time equivalents (FTE)--at the 
     account and PPA levels--for the current fiscal year; and any 
     expected funding and FTE impacts during the budget year.

[[Page S8583]]

       The Department shall manage its PPAs within the levels 
     appropriated and should only submit reprogramming or transfer 
     notifications in cases of unforeseeable and compelling 
     circumstances that could not have been predicted when 
     formulating the budget request for the current fiscal year. 
     When the Department becomes aware of an emerging requirement 
     after the President's budget has been submitted to Congress 
     but prior to the enactment of a full-year funding Act for the 
     budget year, it is incumbent on the Office of the Chief 
     Financial Officer to timely notify the Committees. When the 
     Department submits a reprogramming or transfer notification 
     and does not receive identical responses from the House and 
     Senate Committees, it is expected to work with the 
     Committees to reconcile the differences before proceeding.
       Section 504. The agreement continues a provision, by 
     reference, prohibiting funds appropriated or otherwise made 
     available to the Department to make payment to the Working 
     Capital Fund (WCF), except for activities and amounts allowed 
     in the President's fiscal year 2023 budget request.
       Section 505. The agreement continues a provision providing 
     that not to exceed 50 percent of unobligated balances from 
     prior-year appropriations for each Operations and Support 
     appropriation shall remain available through fiscal year 
     2024, subject to section 503 reprogramming requirements.
       Section 506. The agreement continues a provision that deems 
     intelligence activities to be specifically authorized during 
     fiscal year 2023 until the enactment of an Act authorizing 
     intelligence activities for fiscal year 2023. When such an 
     authorization is enacted after the enactment of this Act, 
     amounts appropriated for ``Intelligence, Analysis, and 
     Situational Awareness--Operations and Support'' in excess of 
     the authorized amounts shall be transferred to ``Management 
     Directorate--Operations and Support''.
       Section 507. The agreement continues a provision requiring 
     notification to the Committees at least three days before DHS 
     executes or announces grant allocations or grant awards 
     totaling $1,000,000 or more; an award or contract, other 
     transaction agreement, or task order on a multiple award 
     agreement, or to issue a letter of intent of greater than 
     $4,000,000; task or delivery orders greater than $10,000,000 
     from multi-year funds; or sole-source grant awards. 
     Notifications shall include a description of the projects or 
     activities to be funded and the location, including city, 
     county, and state.
       Section 508. The agreement continues a provision 
     prohibiting all agencies from purchasing, constructing, or 
     leasing additional facilities for federal law enforcement 
     training without advance notification to the Committees.
       Section 509. The agreement continues a provision 
     prohibiting the use of funds for any construction, repair, 
     alteration, or acquisition project for which a prospectus, if 
     required under chapter 33 of title 40, United States Code, 
     has not been approved.
       Section 510. The agreement continues and modifies a 
     provision that includes and consolidates by reference prior-
     year statutory provisions related to sensitive security 
     information and the use of funds in conformance with section 
     303 of the Energy Policy Act of 1992.
       Section 511. The agreement continues a provision related to 
     contracting officer representatives.
       Section 512. The agreement continues a provision 
     prohibiting the use of funds in contravention of the Buy 
     American Act.
       Section 513. The agreement continues a provision regarding 
     the oath of allegiance required by section 337 of the 
     Immigration and Nationality Act.
       Section 514. The agreement continues and modifies a 
     provision that precludes DHS from using funds in this Act to 
     use reorganization authority. This prohibition is not 
     intended to prevent the Department from carrying out routine 
     or small reallocations of personnel or functions within 
     components, subject to section 503 of this Act. This section 
     prevents large-scale reorganization of the Department, which 
     should be acted on legislatively by the relevant 
     congressional committees of jurisdiction. Any DHS proposal to 
     reorganize components that is included as part of a budget 
     request will be considered by the Committees.
       Section 515. The agreement continues a provision 
     prohibiting funds for planning, testing, piloting, or 
     developing a national identification card.
       Section 516. The agreement continues a provision directing 
     that any official required by this Act to report or certify 
     to the Committees on Appropriations may not delegate such 
     authority unless expressly authorized to do so in this Act.
       Section 517. The agreement continues a provision 
     prohibiting funds in this Act to be used for first-class 
     travel.
       Section 518. The agreement continues a provision 
     prohibiting the use of funds to employ illegal workers as 
     described in Section 274A(h)(3) of the Immigration and 
     Nationality Act.
       Section 519. The agreement continues a provision 
     prohibiting funds appropriated or otherwise made available by 
     this Act to pay for award or incentive fees for contractors 
     with below satisfactory performance or performance that fails 
     to meet the basic requirements of the contract.
       Section 520. The agreement continues a provision requiring 
     DHS computer systems to block electronic access to 
     pornography, except for law enforcement purposes.
       Section 521. The agreement continues a provision 
     prohibiting the use of funds to enter into a federal contract 
     unless the contract meets requirements of the Federal 
     Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949 or chapter 
     137 of title 10, United States Code, and the Federal 
     Acquisition Regulation, unless the contract is otherwise 
     authorized by statute.
       Section 522. The agreement continues a provision regarding 
     the transfer of firearms by federal law enforcement 
     personnel.
       Section 523. The agreement continues a provision regarding 
     funding restrictions and reporting requirements related to 
     conferences occurring outside of the United States.
       Section 524. The agreement continues a provision 
     prohibiting the use of funds to reimburse any federal 
     department or agency for its participation in a National 
     Special Security Event.
       Section 525. The agreement continues a provision requiring 
     a notification, including justification materials, prior to 
     implementing any structural pay reform that affects more than 
     100 full time positions or costs more than $5,000,000, 
     including the introduction of new position classifications.
       Section 526. The agreement continues a provision directing 
     the Department to post on a public website reports required 
     by the Committees on Appropriations unless public posting 
     compromises homeland or national security or contains 
     proprietary information.
       Section 527. The agreement continues a provision 
     authorizing minor procurement, construction, and improvements 
     activities using Operations and Support funding.
       Section 528. The agreement continues a provision to 
     authorize discretionary funding for the cost of primary and 
     secondary schooling of dependents in territories that meet 
     certain criteria.
       Section 529. The agreement continues a provision regarding 
     congressional visits to detention facilities.
       Section 530. The agreement continues a provision providing 
     funding for ``Federal Emergency Management Agency--Federal 
     Assistance'' to reimburse extraordinary law enforcement 
     personnel overtime costs for protection activities directly 
     and demonstrably associated with a residence of the President 
     that is designated for protection.
       Section 531. The agreement continues a provision 
     prohibiting the use of funds to use restraints on pregnant 
     detainees in DHS custody except in certain circumstances.
       Section 532. The agreement continues a provision 
     prohibiting the use of funds for the destruction of records 
     related to the death, sexual abuse, or assault of detainees 
     in custody.
       Section 533. The agreement continues a provision 
     prohibiting the use of federal funds for a Principal Federal 
     Official during a Stafford Act declared disaster or 
     emergency, with certain exceptions.
       Section 534. The agreement continues a provision requiring 
     the submission of a report on unfunded priorities for which 
     appropriations would be classified as the 050 Budget function 
     category.
       Section 535. The agreement continues a provision requiring 
     notifications and reporting related to the protection of 
     certain individuals.
       Section 536. The agreement continues a provision requiring 
     notifications and the submission of information to the 
     Committees related to DHS requests for resources from the 
     Technology Modernization Fund.
       Section 537. The agreement continues a provision requiring 
     the identification of discretionary offsets when fee increase 
     proposals to support current activities assume the enactment 
     of such proposals prior to the beginning of the budget year.
       Section 538. The agreement continues a provision related to 
     the Arms Trade Treaty.
       Section 539. The agreement includes a provision prohibiting 
     the use of funds related to certain entities identified under 
     section 1260H of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National 
     Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021.
       Section 540. The agreement includes a provision making 
     technical corrections to section 205 of the Robert T. 
     Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act.
       Section 541. The agreement includes a provision making a 
     technical correction to a Community Funding Project funded in 
     the fiscal year 2022 DHS funding Act.
       Section 542. The agreement includes a provision making a 
     technical correction to a Congressionally Directed Spending 
     grant funded in the fiscal year 2022 DHS funding Act.
       Section 543. The agreement continues a provision extending 
     an authority provided in title VI of division B of Public Law 
     116-136.
       Section 544. The agreement continues a provision 
     prohibiting the use of funds for the transfer or release of 
     individuals detained at United States Naval Station, 
     Guantanamo Bay, Cuba into or within the United States.
       Section 545. The agreement includes a provision directing 
     the Secretary of Homeland Security to develop, use, and share 
     estimates of arrivals of noncitizens at the southwest border.
       Section 546. The agreement continues and modifies a 
     provision appropriating additional amounts for CBP and ICE to 
     address Border Management requirements.
       Section 547. The agreement includes an extension of an 
     authorization related to the protection of certain facilities 
     and assets from unmanned aircraft.
       Section 548. The agreement includes a provision rescinding 
     unobligated balances from specified sources.

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       Section 549. The agreement includes a provision rescinding 
     lapsed balances pursuant to Section 505 of division F of 
     Public Law 117-103.


                         DISCLOSURE OF EARMARKS

              AND CONGRESSIONALLY DIRECTED SPENDING ITEMS

       Following is a list of congressional earmarks and 
     congressionally directed spending items (as defined in clause 
     9 of rule XXI of the Rules of the House of Representatives 
     and rule XLIV of the Standing Rules of the Senate, 
     respectively) included in the bill or this explanatory 
     statement, along with the name of each House Member, Senator, 
     Delegate, or Resident Commissioner who submitted a request to 
     the Committee of jurisdiction for each item so identified. 
     For each item, a Member is required to provide a 
     certification that neither the Member nor the Member's 
     immediate family has a financial interest, and each Senator 
     is required to provide a certification that neither the 
     Senator nor the Senator's immediate family has a pecuniary 
     interest in such congressionally directed spending item. 
     Neither the bill nor the explanatory statement contains any 
     limited tax benefits or limited tariff benefits as defined in 
     the applicable House and Senate rules.


                           Homeland Security

    [Community Project Funding / Congressionally Directed Spending]

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   DIVISION G--DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT, AND RELATED 
                   AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2023

       The following statement is an explanation of the effects of 
     Division G, which provides appropriations for the Department 
     of the Interior, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 
     the Forest Service, the Indian Health Service, and related 
     agencies for fiscal year 2023.
       The joint explanatory statement accompanying this division 
     is approved and indicates congressional intent. Unless 
     otherwise noted, the language set forth in House Report 117-
     400 carries the same weight as language included in this 
     joint explanatory statement and should be complied with 
     unless specifically addressed to the contrary in this joint 
     explanatory statement. While some language is repeated for 
     emphasis, it is not intended to negate the language referred 
     to above unless expressly provided herein.
       In cases where the House report or this joint explanatory 
     statement direct the submission of a report, such report is 
     to be submitted to both the House and Senate Committees on 
     Appropriations. Where this joint explanatory statement refers 
     to the Committees or the Committees on Appropriations, unless 
     otherwise noted, this reference is to the House Subcommittee 
     on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies and the Senate 
     Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies.
       Each department and agency funded in this Act is directed 
     to follow the directions set forth in this Act and the 
     accompanying statement and to not reallocate resources or 
     reorganize activities except as provided herein or otherwise 
     approved by the House and Senate Appropriations Committees 
     through the reprogramming process as referenced in this Act. 
     This joint explanatory statement addresses only those 
     agencies and accounts for which there is a need for greater 
     explanation than provided in the Act itself. Funding levels 
     for appropriations by account, program, and activity, with 
     comparisons to the fiscal year 2022 enacted level and the 
     fiscal year 2023 budget request, can be found in the table at 
     the end of this division.
       Unless expressly stated otherwise, any reference to ``this 
     Act'' or ``at the end of this statement'' shall be treated as 
     referring only to the provisions of this division.
       Continued Directives.--The Committees continue the 
     directives in the explanatory statement accompanying Public 
     Law 117-103 regarding Deferred Maintenance; Training, Hiring, 
     and Public Lands Education in Alaska; and the Federal Lands 
     Recreation Enhancement Act. The Committees also continue the 
     directives in the explanatory statement accompanying Public 
     Law 116-94 regarding Everglades Restoration as well as the 
     directives in the explanatory statement accompanying Public 
     Law 116-260 regarding Transparency of Information Regarding 
     Grants, Agreements, Research, and Conferences Attendance.
       Disaster Recovery Needs.--The Committees direct the 
     Department of the Interior and the other agencies funded in 
     this bill to establish quarterly reporting requirements for 
     their component bureaus, regions, offices, and programs, as 
     appropriate, to maintain up-to-date comprehensive information 
     for supplemental funding needs related to disaster recovery, 
     which shall be delivered to the Committees within 30 days of 
     a quarter closing.
       Land Grants, Acequias and Community Ditches.--The 
     Secretaries of the Department of the Interior and the 
     Department of Agriculture are urged to recognize the 
     traditional use of State-recognized community land grants, 
     acequias, and community ditches in the American Southwest 
     during the land use planning process. The Department of the 
     Interior and the Forest Service shall, in accordance with 
     applicable law, consider and, as appropriate, provide for 
     traditional-historic uses by these entities within land 
     management plans.
       Secretarial Order 3407.--Within 90 days of enactment of 
     this Act, the Committees direct the Department of the 
     Interior to provide a written plan regarding implementation 
     of Secretarial Order 3407, including specific steps planned 
     and a timeline.
       Tribal Lease Payments.--The Committees are aware of recent 
     litigation in Federal courts regarding what constitutes 
     reasonable lease costs under the 105(l) program. As part of 
     the consultation required by language in Title IV of this 
     Act, the Indian Health Service and the Department of the 
     Interior are expected to consult with Tribes and Tribal 
     organizations regarding agency regulations and policies that 
     determine the amount of space and other standards necessary 
     to carry out Federal programs under a section 105(l) lease, 
     and to ensure that such regulations and policies are 
     consistent, transparent, and clearly communicated to affected 
     Tribes. The Service and the Department are expected to 
     periodically update the Committees on the status of the 
     consultation.

                    Land and Water Conservation Fund

       With enactment of the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) 
     (Public Law 116-152), Congress provided a permanent 
     appropriation of $900,000,000 per year from the Land and 
     Water Conservation Fund (LWCF). Along with other mandatory 
     appropriations, LWCF programs are subject to a 5.7% 
     sequestration, with those sequestered amounts becoming 
     available in the subsequent fiscal year. GAOA also mandated 
     that account allocations and detailed project information be 
     proposed by the administration each year through the 
     President's annual budget submission, and that such 
     allocations, following review by the Committees on 
     Appropriations, may be modified through an alternate 
     allocation.
       A detailed table accompanying this explanatory statement 
     shows the LWCF allocation for fiscal year 2023 by agency, 
     account, activity, and project, including lists of specific 
     Federal land acquisition projects and Forest Legacy Program 
     projects, including congressionally directed spending. 
     Additional tables provide the sequestration adjustments and 
     details for the reallocation of unobligated balances 
     appropriated in previous years to projects that have been 
     completed, deferred, or terminated and are being transferred 
     to currently viable projects. The agencies are expected to 
     continue to follow the directions included in the explanatory 
     statement accompanying the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 
     2021 (Public Law 116-260) under General Implementation. 
     Specific additional directions follow.
       Department of the Interior.--The recently-established 
     Department-wide working group on appraisal and land 
     acquisition is working to identify root causes for delays and 
     challenges in the current Appraisals and Valuation Services 
     Office (AVSO) and bureau realty processes. The working group 
     shall evaluate processes to improve uniform Departmental 
     appraisal policies, options for returning some appraisal or 
     valuation functions to the bureaus, if any, utilizing third 
     party contracting, and clarifying the roles and 
     responsibilities of federal and non-federal parties. AVSO 
     should incentivize recruitment, invest in retention and 
     apprenticeship, improve process efficiency, and improve 
     collaboration with its client bureaus. Requesting bureaus may 
     release unredacted appraisal reports to intended users after 
     a report has been reviewed and approved for agency use after 
     consultation with AVSO. In addition to the reporting 
     requirement in House Report 117-400, the Department is 
     directed to report to the Committees on process improvements 
     within 90 days of enactment of this Act.
       Bureau of Land Management.--The Bureau should prioritize 
     recreational access funds to acquire conservation easements 
     or right of way acquisitions for high priority access parcels 
     identified as part of the Department's conformance with 
     Section 4105 of the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, 
     Management, and Recreation Act (Public Law 116-9) in order to 
     reduce areas of public lands that have significantly 
     restricted public access.
       Fish and Wildlife Service.--The Service is expected to 
     provide outreach to all units of the National Wildlife Refuge 
     System, including Clarks, Edwards, Green River, Loxahatchee, 
     McKinney, and Ottawa, to ensure these refuges are accessing 
     all available funding tools, including recreational access 
     and inholdings. The Service is strongly encouraged to begin 
     due diligence work on the accumulating backlog of parcels 
     available at Clarks River National Wildlife Refuge. The 
     Committees encourage the Service to consider habitat 
     conservation plan land acquisition applications that 
     enhance efforts to establish state research forests 
     through the Cooperative Endangered Species Conservation 
     program.
       National Park Service.--The bill provides $336,028,000 for 
     the state assistance program. In addition, the Service has 
     $59,900,000 in unobligated funds from Fiscal Year 2019 and 
     prior years not associated with any State's allocation. The 
     bill also provides authority for the Service to use up to 
     seven percent of the funds provided for State Conservation 
     Grants to support States in covering their administrative 
     costs, which will allow the program to improve its ability to 
     obligate funds in a timely manner.
       Forest Service.--The Forest Service is strongly encouraged 
     to explore funding opportunities for tracts available for 
     acquisition in the Talladega and Conecuh National Forests. 
     The Service should examine ways to improve the appraisal 
     process, including uniform Service-wide appraisal and real 
     estate policies that provide consistency across regions and 
     ensure delivery of timely appraisals, as well as effective, 
     collaborative use of partners to improve efficiency and 
     project success, allowing for third party contracting and 
     other engagement where appropriate. The Service is directed 
     to report to the Committees on appraisal program improvements 
     within 90 days of enactment of this Act.
       Within 45 days of enactment of this Act, the Service shall 
     submit a reprogramming request in accordance with the 
     Committees' established reprogramming guidelines for 
     additional unobligated balances to be used for Forest Legacy 
     Program projects included in the supplemental list submitted 
     to the Committees pursuant to Public Law 116-220.


                        REPROGRAMMING GUIDELINES

       The following are the procedures governing reprogramming 
     actions for programs and activities funded in the Department 
     of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies 
     Appropriations Act. The agencies funded in this Act are 
     reminded that these reprogramming guidelines are in effect, 
     and must be complied with, until such time as the Committees 
     modify them through bill or report language.
       Definitions.--``Reprogramming,'' as defined in these 
     procedures, includes the reallocation of funds from one 
     budget activity, budget line-item, or program area to another 
     within any appropriation funded in this Act. In cases where 
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     Committee on Appropriations report displays an allocation of 
     an appropriation below that level, the more detailed level 
     shall be the basis for reprogramming.
       For construction, land acquisition, and forest legacy 
     accounts, a reprogramming constitutes the reallocation of 
     funds, including unobligated balances, from one construction, 
     land acquisition, or forest legacy project to another such 
     project.
       A reprogramming shall also consist of any significant 
     departure from the program described in the agency's budget 
     justifications. This includes all proposed reorganizations or 
     other workforce actions detailed below which affect a total 
     of 10 staff members or 10 percent of the staffing of an 
     affected program or office, whichever is less, even without a 
     change in funding. Any change to the organization table 
     presented in the budget justification shall also be subject 
     to this requirement.
       Agencies are reminded that this agreement continues 
     longstanding General Guidelines for Reprogramming that 
     require agencies funded by this Act to submit reorganization 
     proposals for the Committees' review prior to their 
     implementation. It is noted that such reprogramming 
     guidelines apply to proposed reorganizations, workforce 
     restructure, reshaping, transfer of functions, or bureau-wide 
     downsizing and include closures, consolidations, and 
     relocations of offices, facilities, and laboratories. In 
     addition, no agency shall implement any part of a 
     reorganization that modifies regional or State boundaries for 
     agencies or bureaus that were in effect as of the date of 
     enactment of this Act unless approved consistent with the 
     General Guidelines for Reprogramming procedures specified 
     herein. Any such reprogramming request submitted to the 
     Committees on Appropriations shall include a description of 
     anticipated benefits, including anticipated efficiencies and 
     cost-savings, as well as a description of anticipated 
     personnel impacts and funding changes anticipated to 
     implement the proposal.
       General Guidelines for Reprogramming.--
       (a) A reprogramming should be made only when an unforeseen 
     situation arises, and then only if postponement of the 
     project or the activity until the next appropriation year 
     would result in actual loss or damage.
       (b) Any project or activity, which may be deferred through 
     reprogramming, shall not later be accomplished by means of 
     further reprogramming, but instead, funds should again be 
     sought for the deferred project or activity through the 
     regular appropriations process.
       (c) Except under the most urgent situations, reprogramming 
     should not be employed to initiate new programs or increase 
     allocations specifically denied or limited by Congress, or to 
     decrease allocations specifically increased by the Congress.
       (d) Reprogramming proposals submitted to the House and 
     Senate Committees on Appropriations for approval will be 
     considered as expeditiously as possible, and the Committees 
     remind the agencies that in order to process reprogramming 
     requests, adequate and timely information must be provided.
       Criteria and Exceptions.--A reprogramming must be submitted 
     to the Committees in writing prior to implementation if it 
     exceeds $1,000,000 annually or results in an increase or 
     decrease of more than 10 percent annually in affected 
     programs or projects, whichever amount is less, with the 
     following exceptions:
       (a) With regard to the Tribal priority allocations of the 
     Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and Bureau of Indian Education 
     (BIE), there is no restriction on reprogrammings among these 
     programs. However, the Bureaus shall report on all 
     reprogrammings made during a given fiscal year no later than 
     60 days after the end of the fiscal year.
       (b) With regard to the EPA, the Committees do not require 
     reprogramming requests associated with the States and Tribes 
     Partnership Grants or up to a cumulative total of $5,000,000 
     from carryover balances among the individual program areas 
     delineated in the Environmental Programs and Management 
     account, with no more than $1,000,000 coming from any 
     individual program area. No funds, however, shall be 
     reallocated from individual Geographic Programs.
       (c) With regard to the National Park Service, the 
     Committees do not require reprogramming requests associated 
     with the park base within the Park Management activity in the 
     Operation of the National Park System Account. The Service is 
     required to brief the House and Senate Committees on 
     Appropriations on spending trends for the park base within 60 
     days of enactment of this Act.
       Assessments.--``Assessment'' as defined in these procedures 
     shall refer to any charges, reserves, or holdbacks applied to 
     a budget activity or budget line item for costs associated 
     with general agency administrative costs, overhead costs, 
     working capital expenses, or contingencies.
       (a) No assessment shall be levied against any program, 
     budget activity, subactivity, budget line item, or project 
     funded by the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies 
     Appropriations Act unless such assessment and the basis 
     therefor are presented to the Committees in the budget 
     justifications and are subsequently approved by the 
     Committees. The explanation for any assessment in the budget 
     justification shall show the amount of the assessment, the 
     activities assessed, and the purpose of the funds.
       (b) Proposed changes to estimated assessments, as such 
     estimates were presented in annual budget justifications, 
     shall be submitted through the reprogramming process and 
     shall be subject to the same dollar and reporting criteria as 
     any other reprogramming.
       (c) Each agency or bureau which utilizes assessments shall 
     submit an annual report to the Committees, which provides 
     details on the use of all funds assessed from any other 
     budget activity, line item, subactivity, or project.
       (d) In no case shall contingency funds or assessments be 
     used to finance projects and activities disapproved or 
     limited by Congress or to finance programs or activities that 
     could be foreseen and included in the normal budget review 
     process.
       (e) New programs requested in the budget should not be 
     initiated before enactment of the bill without notification 
     to, and the approval of, the Committees. This restriction 
     applies to all such actions regardless of whether a formal 
     reprogramming of funds is required to begin the program.
       Quarterly Reports.--All reprogrammings between budget 
     activities, budget line-items, program areas, or the more 
     detailed activity levels shown in this agreement, including 
     those below the monetary thresholds established above, shall 
     be reported to the Committees within 60 days of the end of 
     each quarter and shall include cumulative totals for each 
     budget activity or budget line item, or construction, land 
     acquisition, or forest legacy project.
       Land Acquisitions, Easements, and Forest Legacy.--Lands 
     shall not be acquired for more than the approved appraised 
     value, as addressed in section 301(3) of Public Law 91-646, 
     unless such acquisitions are submitted to the Committees on 
     Appropriations for approval in compliance with these 
     procedures.
       Land Exchanges.--Land exchanges, wherein the estimated 
     value of the Federal lands to be exchanged is greater than 
     $1,000,000, shall not be consummated until the Committees 
     have had 30 days in which to examine the proposed exchange. 
     ln addition, the Committees shall be provided advance 
     notification of exchanges valued between $500,000 and 
     $1,000,000.
       Budget Structure.--The budget activity or line item 
     structure for any agency appropriation account shall not be 
     altered without advance approval of the Committees.

                  TITLE I--DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

                       Bureau of Land Management


                   MANAGEMENT OF LANDS AND RESOURCES

       Management of Lands and Resources (MLR).--The bill provides 
     $1,368,969,000 for the Management of Lands and Resources 
     appropriation. All programs and activities are funded at the 
     amounts enacted in fiscal year 2022 unless otherwise 
     specified below or in the table at the end of this division. 
     Fixed costs are provided. The Bureau is expected to comply 
     with the instructions and requirements at the beginning of 
     this division and in House Report 117-400 unless otherwise 
     specified below. While some language is repeated for 
     emphasis, it is not intended to negate the language referred 
     to above unless expressly provided herein. The Bureau will 
     also continue to follow the directives included in the 
     explanatory statement accompanying Public Law 117-103 related 
     to the Wild Horse and Burro Program, National Trails, 
     Circumpolar Wildland Fire, Vacant Grazing Allotments, Sheep 
     Disease Transmission, Coos Bay Wagon Road Act Lands, Sudden 
     Oak Death, and Tribal Coordination on Energy. Funding for the 
     National Scenic Historic Trails has been consolidated in a 
     new line in National Conservation Lands.
       Rangeland Management.--The agreement provides $112,340,000. 
     House report 117-400 direction for grazing permit renewals is 
     maintained.
       Forestry Management.--The agreement provides $10,814,000 
     which includes a program increase of $200,000 for general 
     programs.
       Land Management Priorities.--The bill provides $3,500,000 
     for congressionally directed spending in this program. A 
     detailed list of projects is included in the ``Interior and 
     Environment Incorporation of Community Project Funding Items/
     Congressionally Directed Spending Items'' table accompanying 
     this statement.
       Wildlife Habitat Management.--The agreement provides 
     $148,938,000 which includes $20,600,000 for Plant 
     Conservation and Restoration, $71,000,000 for sage-grouse 
     habitat, and $34,000,000 for Threatened and Endangered 
     Species. The Bureau is directed to provide a report within 
     180 days of enactment of this Act on a needs assessment and 
     cost analysis of conservation actions to ensure the future 
     sustainability of habitat identified in recent departmental 
     work on ungulate migrations in the Western United States and 
     improving habitat quality in western big game winter range 
     and migration corridors. The Committees continue to focus on 
     improving and restoring sage-grouse habitat and expect the 
     Bureau to use the resources provided to increase capacity, 
     implement the National Seed Strategy, and detect and remove 
     invasive plants.
       Legacy Wells.--The bill provides no less than $28,900,000 
     for legacy well remediation to maintain program capacity and 
     continue progress toward cleanup of the next cluster of 
     legacy wells in need of remediation.
       Resource Management Planning.--The bill provides 
     $69,029,000 which maintains $10,000,000 for sage grouse. The 
     Committees understand the Bureau is expected to finalize the 
     resource management plan amendments currently underway for 
     Greater sage-grouse

[[Page S8646]]

     conservation and is encouraged to consider Area of Critical 
     Environmental Concern designations where appropriate.
       Abandoned Mine Lands and Hazardous Materials Management.--
     The agreement provides $57,166,000 which includes program 
     increases and $16,503,000 for remediation of abandoned mine 
     land sites.
       Administrative Support.--The agreement provides $56,305,000 
     which includes the budget request for diversity, inclusion 
     and compliance, Justice 40, HR support, and the Foundation 
     for America's Public Lands. Bill language and direction as 
     outlined in House Report 117-400 is maintained.
       National Conservation Lands.--The agreement provides 
     $61,599,000 which includes $11,000,000 in a new line for the 
     National Scenic and Historic Trails.
       The Committees expect the increase provided will create 
     capacity to initiate or revise management plans for recently 
     designated or expanded monuments, including Cascade-Siskiyou 
     National Monument and Rio Grande del Norte National Monument, 
     and address other high priority areas.
       Off-Highway Vehicle Pilot Program.--In addition to the 
     direction in House Report 117-400, the Committees strongly 
     encourage the Bureau to dedicate two additional employees to 
     support high-volume special recreation permit (SRP) offices 
     and examine moving the threshold for recovering SRP 
     processing costs from 50 to 100 hours.


                   OREGON AND CALIFORNIA GRANT LANDS

       The bill provides $120,334,000 for the Oregon and 
     California Grant Lands appropriation. Specific allocations at 
     the activity and subactivity level are contained in the table 
     at the back of this explanatory statement. The Bureau will 
     continue to follow and implement the directives included in 
     the explanatory statement accompanying Public Law 117--103 
     under this heading.


                           RANGE IMPROVEMENTS

       The bill provides $10,000,000 to be derived from public 
     lands receipts and Bankhead-Jones Farm Tenant Act lands 
     grazing receipts.


               SERVICE CHARGES, DEPOSITS, AND FORFEITURES

       The bill provides an indefinite appropriation estimated to 
     be $30,000,000 for Service Charges, Deposits, and 
     Forfeitures.


                       MISCELLANEOUS TRUST FUNDS

       The bill provides an indefinite appropriation estimated to 
     be $26,000,000 for Miscellaneous Trust Funds.

                United States Fish and Wildlife Service


                          RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The bill provides $1,555,684,000 for Resource Management. 
     All programs and activities are funded at the amounts enacted 
     in fiscal year 2022 unless otherwise specified below or in 
     the table at the end of this division. Fixed costs are 
     provided. The Service is expected to comply with the 
     instructions and requirements at the beginning of this 
     division and in House Report 117-400 unless otherwise 
     specified below. While some language is repeated for 
     emphasis, it is not intended to negate the language 
     referred to above unless expressly provided herein.
       The Service is expected to comply with language contained 
     in the explanatory statement accompanying Public Law 117-103, 
     the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2022 regarding 
     Traditional Knowledge, Subsistence Activities, Continued 
     Funding Prohibitions, Sea Otters, Polar Bear Tourism, 
     Conservation Banking Report, and Ozark Hellbender. The 
     agreement reiterates the direction in House Report 117-83 and 
     the explanatory statement accompanying Public Law 116-260 
     regarding American red wolves. In addition, language 
     contained in Senate Report 116-123 subtitled Native 
     Handicrafts, Central Everglades Planning Project, Loxahatchee 
     National Wildlife Refuge, is restated. The agreement 
     reiterates that the Service's 2016 regulation does not apply 
     to Alaska Native handicrafts made from walrus ivory and 
     mammoth ivory.
       Ecological Services.--The agreement provides $296,033,000 
     for programs and activities within Ecological Services, 
     including $23,398,000 for listing.
       Planning and Consultation.--The agreement provides 
     $120,858,000 which maintains $4,000,000 for Gulf Coast 
     restoration activities and provides $96,373,000 for general 
     program activities for building staff capacity. The 
     Committees understand concerns exist regarding the timing of 
     processing of Endangered Species Act Section 7 consultation 
     requests, such as in West Virginia. While the Committees 
     recognize the Service is working to clear the backlog, the 
     Service is directed to report to the Committees within 90 
     days of enactment of this Act on a review of the process and 
     provide recommendations on ways to improve and expedite the 
     process.
       Conservation and Restoration.--The agreement provides 
     $37,653,000 for conservation and restoration activities which 
     includes $7,220,000 for marine mammals with the increase 
     directed toward manatees; $500,000 for the Alaska Nannut Co-
     Management Council (ANCC); $250,000 for the Eskimo Walrus 
     Commission (EWC); and $15,037,000 for candidate conservation. 
     The Service is expected to complete the survey and stock 
     assessment of northern sea otters in Southeast Alaska and 
     assess this population relative to the optimum sustainable 
     level, improve management strategies, and document ecological 
     impacts of sea otters. Upon finalization of this report, the 
     Service shall transmit the report to the Committees.
       Collaboration between Federal Agencies and Private Forest 
     Owners.--The Committees recognize that many at-risk species 
     inhabit private lands, and that the Service must consider 
     non-regulatory and voluntary collaborative conservation 
     efforts with private landowners to accomplish its mission. 
     The Service is directed to continue to utilize its grant and 
     other programs to pursue collaborative species conservation 
     to the maximum extent practicable, specifically for the 
     Northern Long-Eared Bat and the Wood Turtle. Overall, these 
     ongoing collaborative efforts with private landowners through 
     programs such as the Wildlife Conservation Initiative will 
     play a vital role in conserving at-risk and listed species, 
     allow for cooperation, and ultimately help achieve important 
     wildlife conservation outcomes.
       Recovery.--The agreement provides $114,124,000 for 
     activities in support of the recovery and delisting of 
     threatened and endangered species which includes $4,750,000 
     for the State of the Birds to respond to the urgent needs of 
     critically endangered birds that, due to climate change, now 
     face imminent extinction from non-native mosquitoes that 
     carry avian malaria and other pathogens lethal to these 
     birds; $2,300,000 for the Prescott Grant program; $1,000,000 
     for the wolf-livestock demonstration program; and $87,192,000 
     for general program activities with a particular focus on 
     building staff capacity.
       The agreement provides $10,500,000 for Recovery Challenge 
     matching grants. Recovery Challenge grants are to be used to 
     implement high priority recovery actions as prescribed in 
     recovery plans to recover federally listed species. Actions 
     should include, but are not limited to, genetically-sound 
     breeding, rearing, and reintroduction programs. Project 
     partners must provide contributions at least 50% of the 
     project cost, with the remaining funding coming from Recovery 
     Challenge funds. Partner contribution calculations may 
     include in-kind services. Unless an affected State is a 
     partner on the project, no funds may be awarded to a project 
     until the project partners have consulted with such State.
       State Research Forests.--The Service is encouraged to 
     support cooperative research, monitoring, and recovery 
     efforts for the protection and recovery of spotted owl and 
     marbled murrelet species on state research forests.
       Florida Grasshopper Sparrow.--The Service is directed to 
     continue to support the Florida grasshopper sparrow recovery 
     efforts and the captive breeding program as managed by its 
     conservation partners as referenced in Senate Report 116-123 
     and the agreement provides $350,000.
       Western Monarchs and Other Pollinators.--The Service is 
     directed to utilize Service-managed lands to the maximum 
     extent practicable to serve as habitat corridors for 
     migrating monarchs, in particular the western monarch. The 
     Committees recognize the Service provides resources for 
     monarchs and other pollinators across multiple accounts, and 
     this agreement provides no less than $7,000,000 for the 
     western monarch butterfly and other pollinators which 
     includes $4,000,000 within National Wildlife Refuge System, 
     Inventory and Monitoring and $3,000,000 in Science Support. 
     The Service is encouraged to work alongside Federal agencies, 
     State, Tribal, and non-governmental organizations on a 
     comprehensive strategy to increase habitat and monitoring of 
     critical pollinator species. The Service is expected to 
     continue to work with the National Fish and Wildlife 
     Foundation to expand and leverage monarch recovery efforts.
       Western Yellow Rail.--The Service is encouraged to 
     contribute to regional cooperative efforts in the study, 
     conservation, and management of the western Yellow Rail in 
     the Pacific Northwest.
       Habitat Conservation.--The agreement provides $74,224,000 
     for habitat conservation programs, of which $60,267,000 is 
     for the Partners for Fish and Wildlife program and 
     $13,957,000 is for the Coastal Program. The agreement 
     provides $3,200,000 for nutria eradication project and notes 
     additional funding is provided in the National Wildlife 
     Refuge System.
       Klamath Restoration.--The Service is directed to consider 
     additional activities that could be undertaken to recover 
     endangered and threatened species, restore habitat, and 
     improve the health of the Klamath Basin National Wildlife 
     Refuges with the funds provided in fiscal year 2023 and 
     during the fiscal year 2024 budget formulation. The Service 
     is also encouraged to continue to coordinate with the Bureau 
     of Reclamation where appropriate and consult with Tribes.
       National Wildlife Refuge System.--The agreement provides 
     $541,555,000 for the National Wildlife Refuge System.
       Wildlife and Habitat Management.--The agreement provides 
     $16,925,000 for invasive species to focus on high priority 
     invasive species including nutria, buffelgrass, and 
     cheatgrass; $3,000,000 for nutria eradication; $500,000 to 
     help refuges improve water efficiency in order to maintain, 
     improve, replace and upgrade refuge infrastructure on areas 
     such as the Quivira National Wildlife Refuge; $2,500,000 for 
     Marine National Monuments and maintains the direction in 
     House Report 117-400 on the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts 
     Marine National Monument; $25,924,000 for inventory and 
     monitoring including no less than $4,000,000 for western 
     monarchs and pollinators and $1,000,000 for chronic wasting 
     disease.
       Staffing of the National Wildlife Refuge System.--Over the 
     past 10 years, the Refuge System's full-time equivalent (FTE) 
     staffing has

[[Page S8647]]

     decreased while the Refuge System has continued to grow. 
     Funding increases have been provided so the Service can 
     prioritize hiring FTEs to the maximum extent practicable, 
     particularly to fill longstanding vacancies in the refuge 
     system such as at the Northern Maine Wildlife Refuge Complex 
     and Chesapeake Marshlands National Wildlife Refuge Complex.
       Visitor Services.--The agreement includes $80,859,000 which 
     includes $7,000,000 for the Urban Wildlife Refuge Partnership 
     program and $500,000 for Arctic Youth.
       Refuge Management Plans.--The agreement includes $3,684,000 
     for Conservation Planning and notes the increase over the 
     fiscal year 2022 enacted level is for the Service to 
     prioritize updating refuge management plans that predate the 
     National Wildlife Refuge Improvement Act of 1997, to improve 
     the management of refuges in a manner consistent with the 
     strategic vision of the National Wildlife Refuge System.
       Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge.--The Service is 
     directed to continue to follow the directive from previous 
     fiscal years that prohibits a caribou hunt on Kagalaska 
     Island and efforts to remove cattle on Chirikof and 
     Wosnesenski Islands in the State of Alaska.
       John H. Chafee National Wildlife Refuge.--The Committees 
     support the salt marsh restoration work in the John H. Chafee 
     National Wildlife Refuge to enhance salt marsh resiliency 
     with native plantings, tidal flushing, and other drainage 
     work. The Service is encouraged to prioritize these ongoing 
     efforts.
       Kenai National Wildlife Refuge.--The Committees are aware 
     the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge has identified 2,500 acres 
     of forested habitat impacted by spruce bark beetles that is 
     currently ready for treatment, several acres of which are 
     adjacent to existing roads, facilities, campgrounds, trails, 
     and other high use recreation sites. To protect the Refuge 
     and surrounding communities, the Committees encourage the 
     Service to treat the 2,500 high priority acres ready for 
     treatment within the funds provided. These treatments would 
     meet multiple objectives by removing beetle-killed trees and 
     reducing risk to the public, employees, and infrastructure, 
     while reducing accumulations of hazardous fuels.
       Good Neighbor Agreements.--The Committees note that forest 
     ecosystems in the National Wildlife Refuge System are 
     susceptible to elevated wildfire risk, drought, and insect 
     and disease infestation. The Committees recognize that the 
     environmental stewardship of national wildlife refuges and 
     adjacent non-Federal lands would benefit if the Service 
     offered cross-boundary fuels reduction projects to 
     neighboring State, local, and Tribal governments similar to 
     those issued by other land management agencies under Good 
     Neighbor Agreements [GNA]. Therefore, the Department of the 
     Interior is encouraged to develop a legislative proposal that 
     would provide GNA authority to the Service.
       Refuge Maintenance.--The agreement includes $25,850,000 for 
     annual maintenance; $46,579,000 for deferred maintenance; 
     $12,201,000 for equipment and vehicles; and $65,581,000 for 
     maintenance support.
       Conservation and Enforcement.--The agreement provides 
     $175,038,000 for other conservation and enforcement programs 
     as described below.
       Migratory Bird Management.--The agreement provides 
     $53,860,000 which includes $30,935,000 for Conservation and 
     Monitoring of which $600,000 is to manage bird-livestock 
     conflicts, $333,000 is for urban bird treaties, and $800,000 
     is for clean energy; $5,513,000 is for Permits; $591,000 is 
     for the Federal Duck Stamp program; and $16,821,000 is for 
     the North American Waterfowl Management Plan/Joint Ventures 
     program.
       Law Enforcement.--The agreement provides $92,099,000 for 
     law enforcement activities, including the requested internal 
     transfer of $144,000 to General Operations, and $3,500,000 to 
     continue the Service's work with the Indian Arts and Crafts 
     Board to combat international trafficking of counterfeit arts 
     and crafts and to conduct criminal investigations of alleged 
     violations of the Indian Arts and Crafts Act (Public Law 101-
     644).
       Within 120 days of enactment of this Act, the Committees 
     direct the Service to develop a report outlining the 
     challenges associated with combatting wildlife trafficking, 
     including those challenges associated with hiring and 
     retraining law enforcement personnel and payments made to 
     informants to gather intelligence.
       International Affairs.--The agreement provides $29,079,000 
     including $10,098,000 for International Conservation and 
     $18,981,000 for International Wildlife Trade. Funds requested 
     to continue progress on the electronic permit application and 
     processing system are provided. The Theodore Roosevelt Genius 
     Prizes for technological innovation to help conserve and 
     manage wildlife is maintained at the fiscal year 2022 enacted 
     level.
       The Committees are aware of proposed import revisions and 
     direct the Service to continue to apprise the Committees of 
     any additional actions regarding protecting lions and other 
     iconic species that are hunted for trophies to ensure the 
     conservation and survival of those species.
       Fish and Aquatic Conservation.--The agreement provides 
     $241,571,000 for fish and aquatic conservation programs.
       National Fish Hatchery System Operations.--The agreement 
     provides $76,356,000 which includes: $3,750,000 for Klamath 
     Basin restoration activities and directs the Service to work 
     with the affected Tribes on fish restoration activities; 
     $4,700,000 for mitigation of the Pacific Salmon Treaty and 
     directs the Service to work in cooperation with State fish 
     and game agencies and which includes $1,556,000 for 
     implementation of the Yukon River Salmon Agreement and 
     funding for anadromous salmonids. The Service is directed to 
     continue to work in cooperation with State fish and game 
     agencies on marking of anadromous fish and the agreement 
     maintains funding for mass marking at the fiscal year 2022 
     enacted level. None of the funds provided under this 
     subactivity may be used to terminate operations or to close 
     any facility of the National Fish Hatchery System. None of 
     the production programs listed in the March 2013 National 
     Fish Hatchery System Strategic Hatchery and Workforce 
     Planning Report may be reduced or terminated without advance, 
     informal consultation with affected States and Tribes. The 
     Service is encouraged to include adequate support for 
     mitigation activities at National Fish Hatcheries in future 
     budget submissions.
       The bill provides $8,000,000 for the Warm Springs Fish 
     Health Center (FHC) which provides disease diagnosis, 
     biosecurity and disease management, disease treatment and 
     prevention, fish health inspection services for Federal, 
     State, and Tribal hatcheries responsible for production of 
     salmonids and warm water species for recovery, restoration, 
     and recreational fisheries, and inspection and certificates 
     for the National Triploid Grass Carp Protection. Additional 
     funding is provided to develop environmental DNA tools to 
     forecast and detect aquatic invasive species, aquatic 
     nuisance species, aquatic pathogens, and rare species for 
     Federal, State, and Tribal hatcheries.
       Habitat Assessment and Restoration.--The agreement provides 
     $51,826,000, which includes $11,500,000 to implement the 
     Delaware River Basin Conservation Act; $200,000 for the 
     Truckee River Operating Agreement; $268,000 for the Chehalis 
     Fisheries Restoration Program; $18,598,000 for the National 
     Fish Passage Program which includes $5,000,000 to implement 
     the Fisheries Restoration and Irrigation Mitigation Act 
     (Public Law 106-502) for fish passage devices, fish screens 
     and other related features to mitigate the impacts on 
     fisheries in the Pacific Ocean drainage of Oregon, 
     Washington, Montana, Idaho, and California; and $9,750,000 to 
     implement Klamath Basin restoration activities.
       Population Assessment and Cooperative Management.--The 
     agreement provides $36,932,000 which includes $3,000,000 for 
     Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Restoration Act grants; 
     $1,000,000 for Great Lakes Consent Decree; $818,000 for the 
     Lake Champlain Sea lamprey program; and $1,000,000 in General 
     Program Activities for snakehead eradication. The agreement 
     also provides $500,000 in General Program Activities for 
     American Shad and in addition to direction in House Report 
     117-400, the Service is encouraged to collaborate with 
     academic research institutions, and State, Tribal, and local 
     governments.
       Within one year of enactment of this Act, the Committees 
     direct the Service to work with the State of Alaska to 
     develop a joint strategy with management recommendations on 
     subsistence hunting and fishing that will help increase food 
     security in rural areas in the State. This joint strategy 
     should include public input from Alaska's rural residents, 
     document and apply local and traditional knowledge, and 
     identify any needed regulatory flexibilities to respond to 
     the timing and changing distributions of fish and wildlife 
     populations.
       Connecticut River Atlantic Salmon Commission.--The 
     agreement provides $700,000 for the Connecticut River 
     Atlantic Salmon Compact, as authorized in Public Law 98-138, 
     for research, monitoring, conservation, and habitat 
     restoration work related to this high-priority watershed. The 
     Committees direct that the Secretary undertake a special 
     resource study of the national significance of, and the 
     suitability and feasibility of carrying out a basin-scale, 
     nonregulatory program of conservation, stewardship, and 
     enhancement of habitat for fish and wildlife in the 
     Connecticut River basin.
       Aquatic Invasive Species.--The agreement includes 
     $50,143,000 for aquatic invasive species programs, of which 
     $2,749,000 is for Prevention; $5,038,000 is to implement 
     subsection 5(d)(2) of the Lake Tahoe Restoration Act which is 
     supplemented by funding provided in Public Law 117-58 for 
     fiscal year 2023; $31,000,000 is for invasive carp as 
     outlined in House Report 117-400 and Senate Report 116-123 
     including not less than $4,000,000 for contract fishing; 
     $2,834,000 for NISA State Plans and $1,566,000 for NISA 
     implementation which help control the spread of invasive 
     carp; $3,500,000 is to prevent the spread of quagga and zebra 
     mussels; $1,500,000 is for research on hydrilla, eel, and 
     milfoil invasive grasses; and $1,011,000 is for Great Lakes 
     Sea Lamprey administration costs. Direction to the Office 
     of the Secretary contained in House Report 117-400 is 
     maintained. The Committees urge the Secretary to provide 
     the necessary resources for National Early Detection and 
     Rapid Response Framework and Rapid Response Fund.
       Invasive Carp.--The Committees recognize the importance of 
     the work conducted by the Service to combat the serious 
     threat of invasive carp and the bill provides $27,000,000 for 
     invasive carp activities, as directed in House Report 117-400 
     including the direction

[[Page S8648]]

     for contract fishing. The Service should consider the utility 
     of creating a dedicated funding source to increase the 
     intensity and geographic scope of efforts to prevent entry 
     into the Great Lakes and control in areas where invasive carp 
     are currently located. The Committees encourage the Service 
     to work with those States with existing cooperative 
     agreements, including nonprofits, to develop and implement 
     innovative solutions to reduce invasive carp populations in 
     the Ohio River basin, with emphasis on Kentucky Lake and Lake 
     Barkley. Additionally, while the Committees recognize the 
     importance of studying and understanding invasive carp 
     patterns, the Service is encouraged to take action on a 
     strategy that increases the focus on biomass removal and 
     restricts carp progression by coordinating with other Federal 
     partners on constructing invasive carp barriers. The 
     Committees direct the Service to report back within 60 days 
     of enactment of this Act detailing how fiscal year 2021 and 
     fiscal year 2022 funds have been expended, along with a 
     strategy for targeting and removing increased tonnage of 
     invasive carp in the Ohio, Tennessee, and Cumberland River 
     basins.
       European Green Crab.--Over the last three years, the 
     population of invasive European Green Crab in the Salish Sea 
     has grown exponentially. This invasive species is resilient 
     to rising water temperatures caused by climate change. This 
     crab species preys on native vegetation which is important 
     habitat for endangered salmon and other species that are 
     critical to uphold Tribal treaty rights, and Puget Sound 
     recovery. The Committees are aware the Service is working 
     with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration on 
     eradication efforts and direct the Service to report back 
     within 90 days of enactment of this Act outlining these 
     collaborative efforts.
       The Service is expected to continue to pursue methods for 
     invasive species control that do not result in the addition 
     of chemical agents to the ecosystem and harmful secondary by-
     products such as algal blooms, as directed in House Report 
     117-400.
       Cooperative Landscape Conservation.--The agreement 
     maintains the merging of this activity into Science Support 
     and creates a new subactivity Science Partnerships as 
     outlined in House Report 117-400.
       Science Support.--The agreement provides $35,372,000 for 
     Science Support which includes $26,400,000 for Science 
     Partnerships and $8,972,000 for Service Science. The bill 
     provides $3,500,000 for white nose syndrome; the fiscal year 
     2022 enacted level for Gulf Coast ecosystem restoration; 
     $8,000,000 for Chesapeake WILD; and $3,000,000 for research 
     on western monarch butterflies and other pollinators. Best 
     practices developed in response to white nose syndrome are 
     directed to be applied in response to other new and emerging 
     high-risk wildlife diseases. The Service should also 
     continue, along with the U.S. Geological Survey, to lead and 
     implement the North American Bat Monitoring Program in 
     association with other Federal natural resource management 
     agencies and offices, States, Tribes, and non-governmental 
     partners.
       General Operations.--The agreement provides $166,250,000 
     for general operations which includes the internal transfer 
     of $144,000 from Law Enforcement.
       Stewardship Priorities.--The agreement provides $25,641,000 
     in congressionally directed spending for stewardship projects 
     to further conservation goals. Further detail on these 
     projects is provided in the table titled ``Interior and 
     Environment Incorporation of Community Project Funding Items/
     Congressionally Directed Spending Items'' accompanying this 
     explanatory statement.
       The agreement continues support for the Everglades at not 
     less than the fiscal year 2022 enacted level.


                              CONSTRUCTION

       The bill provides $29,904,000 for Construction and includes 
     fixed costs. No additional funding is provided for fleet 
     related infrastructure, and field communication 
     modernization. The agreement continues to support the 
     Service's objective priority-setting process and expects the 
     Service to follow its recast project priority list submitted 
     on July 11, 2022, with the funds provided. When a 
     construction project is completed or terminated and 
     appropriated funds remain, the Service may use those balances 
     to respond to unforeseen reconstruction, replacement, or 
     repair of facilities or equipment damaged or destroyed by 
     storms, floods, fires, and similar unanticipated natural 
     events. The detailed allocation of funding by activity is 
     included in the table at the end of this explanatory 
     statement.


            COOPERATIVE ENDANGERED SPECIES CONSERVATION FUND

       The bill provides $24,564,000 in discretionary funding from 
     the Cooperative Endangered Species Conservation Fund for 
     conservation grants, habitat conservation planning grants, 
     and program administration. In addition, the bill allocates 
     $32,800,000 in mandatory funding from the Land and Water 
     Conservation Fund for species recovery and habitat 
     conservation plan land acquisitions. Detailed tables of 
     funding allocations below the account level are provided at 
     the end of this explanatory statement.


                     NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE FUND

       The bill provides $13,228,000 for payments to counties from 
     the National Wildlife Refuge Fund.


               NORTH AMERICAN WETLANDS CONSERVATION FUND

       The bill provides $50,000,000 for the North American 
     Wetlands Conservation Fund.


              NEOTROPICAL MIGRATORY BIRD CONSERVATION FUND

       The bill provides $5,100,000 for the Neotropical Migratory 
     Bird Conservation Fund.


                MULTINATIONAL SPECIES CONSERVATION FUND

       The bill provides $21,000,000 for the Multinational Species 
     Conservation Fund. The detailed allocation of funding by 
     activity is included in the table at the end of this 
     explanatory statement.


                    STATE AND TRIBAL WILDLIFE GRANTS

       The bill provides $73,812,000 for State and Tribal Wildlife 
     Grants which includes $60,000,000 for State Wildlife Formula 
     grants, $7,612,000 for State Wildlife Competitive grants, and 
     $6,200,000 for Tribal Wildlife grants.

                         NATIONAL PARK SERVICE


                 OPERATION OF THE NATIONAL PARK SYSTEM

       The bill provides $2,923,424,000 for Operation of the 
     National Park System (ONPS). For this and all other Service 
     accounts funded in this bill, the Service is expected to 
     comply with the instructions and requirements at the 
     beginning of this division and in House Report 117-400, 
     unless otherwise specified below. Additional details, 
     instructions, and requirements follow below and in the table 
     at the end of this division.
       The Service is expected to execute its spending at the 
     levels provided. The Service may not redistribute the 
     allocations in a fiscal year 2023 operating plan. The Service 
     is directed to continue to refine the Operation of the 
     National Park Service Realignment and collaborate with the 
     Committees with the goal to develop an updated methodology to 
     improve the budgeting process.
       The agreement provides fixed costs and funding for New 
     Responsibilities at New and Existing Park Areas and for 
     Additional Responsibilities, as requested. This funding 
     provided will address a number of new requirements at 
     national park units across the country, including at Ste. 
     Genevieve National Historical Park [MO], Katmai National Park 
     and Preserve [AK], Catoctin Mountain Park [MD], and the 
     National Mall and Memorial Parks [DC]. The agreement also 
     provides an increase of $31,500,000 to the enacted level to 
     restore staffing capacity across the system. Additional 
     funding guidance is provided below.
       Resource Stewardship.--The bill includes: $5,300,000 for 
     the Partnership Wild & Scenic Rivers program and other 
     similarly managed rivers; $2,000,000 for Active Forest 
     Management; $6,500,000 for Quagga and Zebra Mussel programs; 
     $800,000 for Cave and Karst Ecosystem Research; $400,000 for 
     Recreational Access--Support Alaska Subsistence; $18,856,000 
     for the National Trails System; and $2,500,000 for 
     socioeconomic monitoring. The agreement provides $9,143,000 
     for the National Networks. Within this amount, the African 
     American Civil Rights Network is funded at the requested 
     level of $5,384,000 and the National Underground Railroad 
     Network to Freedom is funded at $2,505,000.
       Visitor Services.--Funding is provided at the enacted level 
     to expand recreational fishing, camping, and instruction 
     focusing on introductory recreation experiences in parks 
     throughout the year in a variety of recreational activities. 
     Funding is also provided at the enacted level for the 
     National Capital Area Performing Arts Program and at not less 
     than the enacted level for the Indian Youth Service Corps. 
     The agreement includes an increase of $776,000 for the 
     Volunteers in Parks program.
       Park Protection.--The bill provides $950,000 for veterans' 
     fire corps.
       Park Support.--The proposed transfers have been accepted 
     and $400,000 is provided for the Diversity, Inclusion, and 
     Compliance initiative. The requested level of $4,635,000 is 
     provided for servicewide bandwidth.
       Global Positioning System Modernization.--The agreement 
     provides $1,500,000 for the sustainment of recently acquired 
     Global Positioning System (GPS) data collection devices used 
     by the Service for facilities planning, lands administration, 
     visitor safety, and infrastructure protection.
       National Park Foundation.--The agreement provides 
     $10,000,000 for the National Park Foundation.
       Additional Guidance.--The following additional guidance is 
     included:
       Appalachian National Scenic Trail.--The Committees are 
     aware that the Trail is experiencing increased visitation and 
     encourage the Service to include sufficient resources in 
     future budget requests to meet its expanded visitor services, 
     law enforcement, compliance, and land acquisition 
     requirements.
       Biscayne National Park.--The Committees are pleased with 
     the recent Memorandum of Understanding [MOU] between Biscayne 
     National Park [BNP] and the State of Florida's Fish and 
     Wildlife Conservation Commission [FWC], which affirms fishing 
     rights within the boundaries of BNP and affirms the 
     regulatory responsibilities of the Service and the FWC to 
     manage wildlife and regulate commercial and recreational 
     fishing within Biscayne National Park, in conformance with 
     Federal and State law. The Committees commend the parties for 
     their commitment to engage in good faith with regard to any 
     disputes that may arise in the future related to the MOU.
       Blackstone Valley National Heritage Corridor.--The 
     Committees continue the fiscal year 2022 enacted directive 
     regarding cooperative agreements with the local coordinating

[[Page S8649]]

     entity for the Blackstone Valley National Heritage Corridor. 
     The Committees believe the acquisition of Slater Mill's 
     historic dam will contribute positively to the cultural, 
     natural, and recreational resource base of the Park. The 
     Service shall brief the Committees on its plan to fulfill 
     this directive within 60 days of enactment of this Act.
       Chesapeake Bay Office.--The Service is a lead implementing 
     partner for four goals (land conservation, public access, 
     citizen stewardship, and education) of the 2014 Chesapeake 
     Bay Watershed Agreement. The National Park Service Chesapeake 
     Bay office has continued, despite funding challenges, to 
     expand its activities and responsibilities related to 
     expanding public access to the Bay and serves as the lead 
     agency on several multi-State and Federal conservation goals 
     as a part of the 2014 Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement. The 
     Committees support operational funding for the Chesapeake Bay 
     Office in order to meet the conservation and public access 
     goals established by the Bay Watershed Agreement.
       Cumberland Island National Seashore.--The Committees are 
     concerned about erosion impacting the Cumberland Island 
     National Seashore. The Committees direct the Service to 
     consult with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to exchange 
     information regarding currently available science related to 
     climate vulnerability of Cumberland Island in order to gain 
     common understanding of available tools for assessing and 
     addressing erosion. The Committees direct the Service to keep 
     the Committees apprised of developments related to climate 
     assessments of Cumberland Island National Seashore.
       Continued Directives.--The Committees continue the 
     directives regarding Director's Order 21, Roosevelt-
     Campobello International Park, and Katahdin Wood and Waters 
     National Monument contained in Senate Report 116-123.
       Glen Echo Park.--The Committees encourage the Service to 
     provide a report on the facility condition assessment and 
     cost estimate on necessary deferred maintenance to the 
     Crystal Pool and Spanish Ballroom within Glen Echo Park. The 
     Service is also encouraged to collaborate with Montgomery 
     County on the Glen Echo Park Master Plan to ensure that park 
     operations are beneficial to those who enjoy and use the park 
     while reducing the financial burden on the Service.
       Honouliuli National Historic Site and Pearl Harbor National 
     Memorial.--The Committees direct the Service to maintain the 
     line item and program summary in the budget for Honouliuli. 
     Further, the Service shall not construe Section 2206 of the 
     John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation 
     Act to result in any reduction in funding for Pearl Harbor 
     National Memorial or Honouliuli National Historic Site.
       National Trails System.--The Committees understand the 
     importance of providing adequate funding to develop and 
     maintain the National Trails System for future generations to 
     enjoy. The Committees urge the Service to continue its 
     efforts to support construction and maintenance projects and 
     volunteer coordination efforts, including activities in 
     support of non-unit National Scenic Trails.
       Public-Private Partnership [P3] Authorities.--The 
     Committees direct the Service to provide a report on its plan 
     to use its existing P3 authorities to work with public- and 
     private-sector entities that have experience designing, 
     developing, and constructing facilities, including in the 
     Arctic, to develop proposals for affordable and sustainable 
     employee housing options. The report should identify where, 
     if any, existing authorities limit the viability of potential 
     P3s.
       South Florida Ecosystem Restoration Task Force.--Consistent 
     with the budget request, the bill provides $11,661,000 to 
     support the South Florida Ecosystem Restoration Task Force to 
     develop and implement responses to invasive species 
     threatening the integrity of the Everglades ecosystem, 
     pursuant to Section 528(f)(2) of the Water Resources 
     Development Act of 1996 (110 Stat. 3771) as amended by Public 
     Law 116--260.
       Tok/Ahtna Visitor Center.--The Committees appreciate the 
     efforts by the Service to collaborate in the development of 
     plans for interpretive facilities, information about 
     recreational opportunities, and support with volunteer 
     staffing at the Tok Visitor Center, which serves as a gateway 
     for visitors to nearby Denali National Park and Preserve, 
     Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, and the Yukon-
     Charley Rivers National Preserve.
       Additionally, the Committees appreciate Wrangell-St. Elias 
     National Park and Preserve's commitment to the Ahtna Cultural 
     Center. The Park's current visitor center co-management 
     strategy with Ahtna Incorporated honors the original 
     Congressional intent to collaborate with the Ahtna people, 
     and the Committees expect the Service to continue this 
     partnership and to provide the Committees with information 
     regarding any facilities maintenance issues that need to be 
     addressed to further facilitate this partnership.


                  NATIONAL RECREATION AND PRESERVATION

       The bill provides $92,512,000 for national recreation and 
     preservation. The amounts recommended by the Committees 
     compared with the budget estimates by activity are shown in 
     the table at the end of this explanatory statement.
       The bill provides $13,000,000 for the Rivers, Trails, and 
     Conservation Assistance Program; $3,027,000 for Chesapeake 
     Bay Gateways and Trails; $3,407,000 for Native American 
     Graves Protection and Repatriation Grants; $4,655,000 for 
     Japanese Confinement Site Grants; $2,750,000 for American 
     Indian and Native Hawaiian Art and Culture Grants; and, 
     $4,000,000 for the competitive grant program, as 
     authorized by the 9/11 Memorial Act (Public Law 115-413).
       Cultural Programs.--The Committees recognize the importance 
     of supporting Native culture and arts development, which 
     contributes to maintaining the cultural diversity of the 
     Nation and the cultural survival of the regional indigenous 
     populations. Funding is provided for grants to nonprofit 
     organizations or institutions for the purpose of supporting 
     programs for Native Hawaiian or Alaska Native culture and 
     arts development at a total program level of $2,750,000, an 
     increase of $1,250,000 to the enacted level, which is 
     provided to support both continued participation and 
     encourage new entities to apply.
       Heritage Partnership Programs.--The bill provides 
     $29,232,000 for Heritage Partnership Programs. The directive 
     contained in the explanatory statement that accompanied 
     Public Law 116-6 with regards to funding distribution is 
     continued. The Committees note that areas that have not 
     completed their management plan continue to be eligible for 
     funding regardless of the status of their management plan.


                       HISTORIC PRESERVATION FUND

       The bill provides $204,515,000 for historic preservation.
       Competitive Grants.--The bill provides $24,000,000 for the 
     African American Civil Rights Grants, as requested. 
     Additionally, $5,000,000 is provided for the History of Equal 
     Rights grants and $1,250,000 for grants to underserved 
     communities.
       Paul Bruhn Historic Revitalization Grants.--The bill 
     provides $12,500,000 for historic revitalization grants and 
     retains the directives regarding the distribution of funding 
     included in Senate Report 116-123.
       Save America's Treasures.--The Save America's Treasures 
     program is provided $26,500,000. The Committees support this 
     program because of its important role in providing 
     preservation and conservation assistance to nationally 
     significant historical properties and collections, including 
     historic courthouses.
       Semiquincentennial Preservation Grants.--The bill provides 
     $10,000,000 for the Service to assist states in preparing for 
     the upcoming Semiquincentennial celebration and to celebrate 
     the Nation's history. Funds from this allocation should be 
     used for a competitive grant program to support the 
     restoration of sites that honor the 250th anniversary of the 
     country's founding, including Revolutionary War monuments. 
     Eligible sites shall include those that commemorate the 
     anniversary of the country's founding even if they were 
     constructed later than the end of the Revolutionary War. 
     Priority should be given to state-owned sites. A site must be 
     listed in, or be eligible to be listed in, the National 
     Register of Historic Places in order to be eligible.
       State Historic Preservation Offices [SHPOs].--The bill 
     provides $62,150,000 for grants to State Historic 
     Preservation Offices, an increase of $4,475,000 to the 
     enacted level which shall be allocated consistent with the 
     newly updated apportionment formula. The Committees note that 
     this funding level will ensure that each SHPO will receive no 
     less than the fiscal year 2022 amount.


                              CONSTRUCTION

       The bill provides $239,803,000 for construction.
       Line-Item Construction.--Funding for line-item construction 
     projects is provided as outlined in the table contained in 
     House Report 117-400.
       Denali National Park Road.--The Committees recognize the 
     importance of the Denali Park Road as the sole method of 
     motor vehicle access to Denali National Park and Preserve and 
     will continue to support the Service as it works to complete 
     the bridge construction and reopen the road as quickly as 
     possible.
       Fort Vancouver National Historic Site.--The Committees 
     support the ongoing efforts to develop a plan for long-term 
     usage of the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site. It is 
     critical that that an actionable plan for rehabilitation of 
     the facility be produced as soon as is practicable. Within 90 
     days after the enactment of this Act, the Service shall 
     provide to the Committees a completed action plan to 
     facilitate this work.
       Ocmulgee River Corridor.--The Committees support the 
     Service's initiation of the Ocmulgee River Corridor Special 
     Resource Study to evaluate its potential for designation as a 
     national park unit and directs the Service to complete the 
     report in a timely manner.
       Valles Caldera National Preserve.--The Committees are 
     concerned about the presence of illegal trespass cattle on 
     the Valles Caldera National Preserve in violation of the 
     Preserve's authorizing statute and Service policy. The 
     Service, in cooperation with the U.S. Forest Service, is 
     urged to make progress on infrastructure improvements that 
     will effectively exclude unauthorized cattle from the 
     Preserve.


                          CENTENNIAL CHALLENGE

       The bill provides $15,000,000 for the Centennial Challenge 
     matching grant program.

                    UNITED STATES GEOLOGICAL SURVEY


                 SURVEYS, INVESTIGATIONS, AND RESEARCH

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The bill provides $1,497,178,000 for Surveys, 
     Investigations, and Research of the U.S. Geological Survey 
     (USGS, or the Survey). All

[[Page S8650]]

     programs and activities are funded at the amounts enacted in 
     fiscal year 2022 unless otherwise specified below or in the 
     table at the end of this division. Fixed costs are provided. 
     The Survey is expected to comply with the instructions and 
     requirements at the beginning of this division and in House 
     Report 117-400 unless otherwise specified below. While some 
     language is repeated for emphasis, it is not intended to 
     negate the language referred to above unless expressly 
     provided herein.
       Ecosystems.--The agreement provides $307,176,000 as 
     outlined below.
       Environmental Health Program.--The agreement provides 
     $30,457,000 for Environmental Health, which includes 
     $12,528,000 for Contaminant Biology and $17,929,000 for Toxic 
     Substances Hydrology. The agreement includes no less than a 
     $2,000,000 increase above the enacted level for research on 
     harmful algal blooms; $2,700,000 for research on the 
     transmission of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFOA/
     PFAS) in watersheds and aquifers; and the $1,000,000 
     requested for mitigation of contaminant exposures and 
     recycling of mine waste. The Survey is to continue its 
     research as directed in House Report 117-400.
       Plastics.--The Survey is urged to emphasize plastics 
     research, including microplastics and nanoplastics research, 
     in the environmental health strategic vision the Survey is 
     developing and to brief the Committees on its findings after 
     release of the review.
       Species Management Research Program.--The agreement 
     provides $63,904,000 which includes an increase of $500,000 
     for Hawaiian forest birds to respond to the urgent needs of 
     critically endangered Hawaiian forest birds that, due to 
     climate change, now face imminent extinction from non-native 
     mosquitoes that carry avian malaria and other pathogens 
     lethal to these birds; $500,000 to support and collaborate 
     with the USA National Phenology Network; $2,000,000 for 
     deepwater fisheries research at the Great Lakes Science 
     Center; and the requested funding rebase of $5,087,000. The 
     Survey is directed to follow the guidance on saline lakes 
     contained in the joint explanatory statement accompanying 
     Public Law 117-103.
       Land Management Research Program.--The agreement provides 
     $54,806,000 including $8,000,000 for Chesapeake Bay 
     activities; an increase of $1,000,000 to expand research on 
     vegetation treatments to restore the integrity of native 
     Sagebrush Sea ecosystems; and a reduction of $7,707,000 as 
     requested to rebase funding.
       Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program.--
     The agreement provides $46,622,000 including $4,970,000 for 
     chronic wasting disease (CWD) and maintaining the direction 
     for CWD contained in the joint explanatory statement 
     accompanying Public Law 117-103. The agreement provides 
     $700,000 for coral disease and $2,000,000 for research to 
     develop integrated approaches to tick management including 
     using biodiversity and ecosystem services to lower population 
     counts. This research should be conducted with coordination 
     from several States in a region that is most heavily impacted 
     by the prevalence of ticks and tick-borne disease. The 
     agreement also provides $11,000,000 for invasive carp 
     research, of which $3,000,000 is for research on grass carp. 
     The direction found in Senate Report 116-123 is continued for 
     invasive carp, coral disease, and invasive species research, 
     detection, and response efforts. Additional resources for 
     invasives species were provided in Public Law 117-58 to the 
     Office of the Secretary. The requested funding rebase of 
     $2,620,000 is provided and funding is continued at the 
     enacted level for white-nose syndrome (WNS) research and the 
     direction found in Senate Report 116-123 is continued for WNS 
     research.
       Climate Adaptation Science Center and Land Change Science 
     Program.--The agreement provides $83,181,000 of which 
     $63,115,000 is for the National and Regional Climate 
     Adaptation Science Centers. The agreement also provides 
     $20,066,000 for Land Change Science.
       Cooperative Research Units Program.--Cooperative Research 
     Units (CRUs) are funded at $28,206,000 in accordance with the 
     specifications outlined in House Report 117-400. Of the funds 
     provided, the Survey is directed to use at least $800,000 
     from within available funds to establish a CRU at a land-
     grant institution within a State that does not have a CRU. 
     Priority should be given to funding a CRU that can serve the 
     diverse aquatic and ecological landscapes, including urban 
     and rural components, that encompass the Lake Michigan and 
     Ohio River ecosystems. The agreement also provides $250,000 
     from within available funds for research into the causes of 
     malignant melanomas affecting 25 percent or more of brown 
     bullhead (Ameiurus nebulosus) in some northern New England 
     waters and related fishery research at the host institution.
       Great Lakes Science.--The Survey is directed to follow the 
     guidance contained in House Report 117-400.
       Energy and Mineral Resources.--The agreement provides 
     $104,220,000 for Energy and Mineral Resources. Mineral 
     Resources is funded at $70,855,000 which provides $10,848,000 
     for the critical minerals Earth Mapping Resources Initiative 
     (Earth MRI) and provides an increase of $5,000,000 for mine 
     waste research and to characterize mine waste as a potential 
     source for critical minerals. Energy Resources is funded at 
     $33,365,000 including $2,977,000 for geologic carbon 
     sequestration, a portion of which is to advance the 
     understanding of alkalinity sources of carbon mineralization 
     as outlined in House Report 117-83.
       The Committees urge the Survey, when developing critical 
     mineral maps, to consider other sensitive resources such as 
     sacred Tribal sites, sensitive watersheds, critical habitat, 
     and other areas with special designations, and prioritize 
     mapping in those areas that do not conflict with other 
     previously identified sensitive resources. The Committees 
     encourage the Survey to work with partner agencies 
     responsible for permitting critical mineral projects and to 
     increase the provision and public release of science to 
     inform decision-making for permitting processes, including 
     data and analysis from the Earth MRI program and mineral 
     resource assessments as called for under the Energy Act of 
     2020.
       The Survey is expected to continue critical mineral mapping 
     efforts in Alaska, pursuant to the budget request, at no less 
     than the fiscal year 2022 enacted level and to brief the 
     Committees on such efforts within 90 days of enactment of 
     this Act.
       Natural Hazards.--The agreement provides $200,256,000 for 
     the Natural Hazards Program, including $92,651,000 for 
     earthquake hazards. Within this funding, $28,600,000 is 
     included for continued development and expansion of the 
     ShakeAlert West Coast earthquake early warning (EEW) system 
     to enable its completion by 2025, as well as the timely 
     processing of station permits and License to Operate 
     applications. The establishment of a memorandum of 
     understanding between the Survey and its ShakeAlert state 
     government partners to enable closer collaboration and 
     coordination on future system improvements is supported. 
     Continued efforts to complete and operate the EEW system on 
     the West Coast are supported.
       Concerns remain regarding the lack of knowledge and 
     offshore real time instrumentation available for the Cascadia 
     subduction zone and the direction in House Report 117-400 is 
     maintained.
       The agreement continues no less than the enacted level for 
     the national seismic hazard map, including for expansion to 
     Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, for regional networks to 
     operate and maintain recently acquired USArray stations, for 
     the Advanced National Seismic System (ANSS) and for regional 
     seismic networks including the Central and Eastern U.S. 
     Network.
       The agreement provides $37,500,000 for volcano hazards.
       In 2019 the National Volcano Early Warning and Monitoring 
     System (NVEWS) was initiated. The Survey is completing the 
     two prerequisite steps to NVEWS expansion and upgrades and is 
     encouraged to accelerate the pace of these activities where 
     possible. The agreement provides $18,349,000 for NVEWS an 
     increase of $2,591,000 over the enacted level. Within 60 days 
     of enactment of this Act, the Survey is directed to brief the 
     Committees on the NVEWS program and how this increase is 
     allocated within the program. The agreement further provides 
     an increase of $750,000 for Volcanic Hazards Assessments. The 
     Survey is directed to follow the guidance regarding early 
     warning systems contained in the joint explanatory statement 
     accompanying Public Law 117-103.
       The agreement includes $14,432,000 for landslide hazards 
     which includes an increase of $4,774,000 for science as 
     outlined in House Report 117-400.
       The agreement also includes an increase of $500,000 above 
     the fiscal year 2022 enacted level towards collaborating with 
     State, local, and regional entities in Alaska, particularly 
     areas with heightened risk like those communities in Prince 
     William Sound and Southeast Alaska to develop, support, and 
     maintain landslide monitoring systems. The Survey is directed 
     to collaborate with local and Indigenous people and entities 
     to support and maintain landslide monitoring systems. The 
     Survey is directed to continue to collaborate with the 
     National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and State and 
     local governments to assess landslide potential and hazards 
     and implement tsunami warning capabilities in Southeast 
     Alaska and Prince William Sound, expanding its work to 
     locations that have recently experienced landslides and will 
     continue to face the threat of devastating landslides, 
     including through the use of physical instrumentation or 
     remote sensing technologies, particularly where the threat of 
     a landslide and tsunami presents the most serious risks to 
     residents, visitors, and property. Further, the Survey is 
     directed to brief the Committees within 60 days of enactment 
     of this Act on what resources are needed to aid the 
     development and deployment of early warning technologies to 
     affected communities.
       The agreement provides $5,251,000 for Geomagnetism 
     including no less than the fiscal year 2022 enacted level for 
     the magnetotelluric survey to advance the collection of 
     magnetotelluric observations of the Earth's naturally 
     occurring electric and magnetic fields in the U.S. regions.
       Water Resources.--The agreement provides $304,434,000 for 
     Water Resources, with $66,529,000 for activities associated 
     with the Cooperative Matching Funds. Water Availability and 
     Use Science is funded at $74,296,000, which includes 
     $1,000,000 for the U.S.-Mexico transboundary aquifer 
     assessment; $13,500,000 for integrated water prediction to 
     continue to utilize the best available technology to develop 
     advanced modeling tools, state-of-the-art forecasts, and 
     decision support systems and to incorporate these 
     capabilities into daily water operations; $1,750,000 for a 
     regional Integrated Water Availability Assessment (IWAA) 
     study program for saline lakes to expand the assessment and 
     monitoring of the hydrology of

[[Page S8651]]

     saline lakes in the Great Basin and the migratory birds and 
     other wildlife dependent on those habitats; $3,500,000 for 
     the Survey's work with the Open ET consortium and the Open ET 
     software system; and $2,000,000 for the Mississippi Alluvial 
     Plain (MAP) IWAA to focus on delivery of a groundwater model-
     based decision support system to support water sustainability 
     decision-making and a basin-wide model and monitoring program 
     for irrigation water-use.
       The agreement provides $5,000,000 to establish a center to 
     study complete water cycles and watersheds from mountaintops 
     to shorelines. The center should focus on freshwater 
     ecosystems with diverse industries, water use, and geological 
     surroundings that impact the local watershed. All aspects of 
     the water cycle should be considered including negative 
     outcomes such as drought, flooding, and harmful algal blooms. 
     This center should be located near and work in collaboration 
     with at least one Water Resources Research Institute and 
     collaborate with other relevant water institutes such as Sea 
     Grant and the Northeastern States Research Cooperative.
       The agreement provides $1,000,000 to the Survey, in 
     cooperation with the Bureau of Land Management, to increase 
     its investment in streamflow permanence modeling in the 
     Pacific Northwest.
       Groundwater and Streamflow Information is funded at 
     $114,558,000 which includes $500,000 to maintain operational 
     capacity within the existing super-gage network along the 
     Ohio River in basins containing unique geology, distinct 
     soils, and a significant agricultural presence. The agreement 
     also includes $25,715,000 for Federal priority streamgages 
     and $29,500,000 for the Next Generation Water Observing 
     System (NGWOS). The Survey is encouraged to partner, where 
     appropriate, with State and local government officials and 
     with the academic research community. Funding for NGWOS 
     includes the enacted level of $4,500,000 to continue work 
     with universities and other partners to develop innovative 
     water resource sensor technologies that are scalable to 
     regional and national monitoring networks. The Survey is 
     directed to deliver a report to the Committees within 180 
     days of the enactment of this Act on a plan for full national 
     implementation of the NGWOS. The agreement provides 
     $3,870,000 to support and maintain operational capacity of 
     existing streamgages on certain transboundary rivers, 
     including those at risk from mining pollution originating in 
     Canada, including in the Kootenai watershed. This includes at 
     least $1,500,000 for implementation of the baseline strategy 
     for transboundary rivers, as outlined by the Survey's Water 
     Quality Baseline Assessment for Transboundary Rivers; 
     $120,000 for the streamgage on the Unuk River; and an 
     additional $750,000 above enacted levels for expanded water 
     quality monitoring and analysis efforts in the Kootenai 
     watershed to support interagency efforts to evaluate and 
     reduce transboundary pollution through the installation of 
     new streamgages, expanded analyses, and related activities. 
     The Survey is directed to continue to expand its streamgage 
     monitoring of transboundary watersheds and to work with the 
     Environmental Protection Agency to ensure the relevant 
     equipment is deployed to the Kootenai watershed to support 
     the agency's work to evaluate and reduce transboundary 
     pollution. The direction is continued that the Survey enter 
     into a formal partnership with local Tribes and other Federal 
     agencies as necessary in the area to develop a water quality 
     strategy for the transboundary rivers.
       On-going monitoring of critical water budget components in 
     the Klamath Basin is critical to provide the information 
     needed to assess controls of inflow to Upper Klamath Lake 
     from surface water and groundwater, improve snowmelt 
     prediction, and forecast impacts of drought and other drivers 
     on water availability for both human and ecological uses and 
     the agreement provides at least the fiscal year 2022 enacted 
     level to continue to expand this work.
       Hydrological Science Talent Pipeline.--Robust participation 
     with universities in the hydrologic sciences is essential to 
     building a talent pipeline as well as building capacity to 
     support future hydrological research and operational efforts. 
     To support this, the agreement continues funding of 
     $2,000,000 within the Water Availability and Use Science 
     Program and $2,000,000 within the National Groundwater and 
     Streamflow Information Program to pursue such cooperative 
     research agreements with an emphasis on locations where the 
     Survey has pending hydrological facilities as well as where 
     there are other Federal operational hydrologic resources.
       The agreement includes $100,080,000 for the National Water 
     Quality program which includes $7,490,000 for harmful algal 
     bloom research. The agreement provides an increase of 
     $500,000 to support PFAS substances research. The Survey is 
     directed to consult with States and Tribes to determine 
     priority mapping areas for PFAS contamination and to follow 
     the direction in House Report 117-400.
       Water Resources Research Institutes.--The agreement 
     provides $15,500,000 including $1,500,000 for research on the 
     control and management of aquatic invasive species in the 
     Upper Mississippi River region and an increase of $500,000 
     over the fiscal year 2022 enacted level for PFAS research as 
     directed in House Report 117-400. The remaining fiscal year 
     2023 increase over the fiscal year 2022 enacted level is to 
     be directed toward annual base grants (104b).
       Special Initiatives.--The agreement provides an additional 
     amount of $2,130,000 in congressionally directed spending for 
     Special Initiatives projects. Further detail on these 
     projects is located in the table titled ``Interior and 
     Environment Incorporation of Community Project Funding Items/
     Congressionally Directed Spending Items'' accompanying this 
     explanatory statement.
       Core Science Systems.--The agreement provides $284,607,000, 
     which includes $30,480,000 for science, synthesis, analysis, 
     and research including an increase of $3,650,000 for 
     supercomputing associated with high-risk accelerated climate 
     research and maintains the fiscal year 2022 enacted level of 
     funding for National Geologic and Geophysical Data 
     Preservation which is supplemented by funding provided in 
     Public Law 117-58. The agreement provides $44,556,000 for the 
     National Cooperative Geologic Mapping of which the increase 
     above fixed costs is outlined in House Report 117-400.
       The National Geospatial program is funded at $93,650,000 
     including $500,000 for the 3D National Topography Model; 
     $42,905,000 for 3D Elevation Program (3DEP) providing an 
     increase of $3,000,000 for Federal lands in western states; 
     $330,000 for geospatial work focused on Tribal lands; 
     $1,900,000 for the United States Board of Geographic Names; 
     $1,350,000 for the National Digital Trails project; and an 
     increase of $250,000 for topoBuilder.
       No less than $10,000,000 is provided for the Alaska mapping 
     and map modernization initiative, which includes modernizing 
     Alaskan hydrography datasets. The direction contained in the 
     joint explanatory statement accompanying Public Law 117-103 
     regarding Alaska mapping is continued.
       The National Land Imaging program is funded at $115,921,000 
     which includes $92,184,000 for Satellite Operations and 
     maintains the enacted level for the National Civil 
     Applications Center. The agreement recognizes the value of 
     the Remote Sensing State Grants program and provides 
     $1,465,000 to ensure the on-going viability of the program 
     nationwide. The agreement also includes an increase of 
     $500,000 for biologic carbon sequestration.
       Science Support.--The agreement includes $106,304,000 which 
     includes $82,179,000 for administration and management 
     including increases of $724,000 for scientific integrity; 
     $100,000 for fleet enhancement; and increases outlined in 
     House Report 117-400; and $24,125,000 for Information 
     Services which provides an increase of $1,500,000 for cloud 
     and high-performance computing.
       Facilities.--The agreement provides funding for deferred 
     maintenance and capital improvement projects as requested 
     including $176,000 for Field Communications Modernization as 
     requested.


                   BUREAU OF OCEAN ENERGY MANAGEMENT

                        OCEAN ENERGY MANAGEMENT

       The bill provides $219,960,000 for the Ocean Energy 
     Management appropriation, which is partially offset through 
     the collection of rental receipts and cost recovery fees 
     totaling $37,000,000, resulting in a net appropriation of 
     $182,960,000. Specific allocations at the activity level are 
     contained in the table accompanying this explanatory 
     statement.
       The Bureau will follow the directives contained in the 
     explanatory statement accompanying Public Law 117-103 related 
     to Offshore Wind Site Identification, Regional Citizen 
     Advisory Councils, and Marine Minerals.
       Renewable Energy.--The bill provides $42,818,000 for 
     renewable energy. The Bureau is expected to collaborate with 
     existing Regional Ocean Partnerships to inform the siting and 
     development of wind energy areas. Further, project boundaries 
     will be drawn in partnership with a diversity of maritime 
     users and stakeholder groups, particularly on the West Coast. 
     The Bureau is directed to consider working groups or other 
     mechanisms to ensure appropriate engagement occurs with local 
     communities and stakeholders in the Pacific Northwest.
       Conventional Energy.--The bill provides $61,487,000 for 
     conventional energy.
       Geologic Carbon Sequestration.--The agreement includes not 
     less than $2,000,000 for geologic carbon sequestration on the 
     Outer Continental Shelf as authorized by the Infrastructure 
     Investment and Jobs Act (Public Law 117-58; 43 U.S.C. 
     1337(p)(1)(E)). The Committees expect the Bureau to build 
     and support necessary expertise using funds within 
     Environmental Programs and Conventional Energy. The 
     Committees direct the Bureau to complete the necessary 
     technical, safety, and environmental work expeditiously to 
     begin implementation and ensure long-term secure storage 
     while reducing the risk of environmental impacts. The 
     Bureau is further directed to brief the Committees on this 
     effort within 60 days of enactment of this Act.
       Environmental Assessment.--The bill provides $82,373,000 
     for environmental assessment. Up to $5,000,000 is available 
     for the Bureau to partner with academia and state agencies to 
     establish a Center for Paleoenvironmental Records of Extreme 
     Events. The Bureau will provide the Committees with a spend 
     plan detailing the establishment of the center, its location, 
     and associated costs within 90 days of enactment of this Act.

             Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement


             OFFSHORE SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL ENFORCEMENT

       The bill provides $213,886,000 for the Offshore Safety and 
     Environmental Enforcement appropriation. This amount is 
     partially

[[Page S8652]]

     offset through the collection of rental receipts, cost 
     recovery fees and inspection fees totaling $57,000,000, 
     resulting in a net appropriation of $156,886,000. Specific 
     allocations at the activity level are contained in the table 
     accompanying this explanatory statement.


                           OIL SPILL RESEARCH

       The bill provides $15,099,000 for Oil Spill Research.
       Arctic Oil Spill Research.--The Bureau will continue to 
     follow the directive regarding Arctic Oil Spill Research 
     contained in the explanatory statement accompanying Public 
     Law 117-103.

          Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement


                       REGULATION AND TECHNOLOGY

       The bill provides $121,026,000 for the Regulation and 
     Technology appropriation.


                    ABANDONED MINE RECLAMATION FUND

       The bill provides $168,904,000 for the Abandoned Mine 
     Reclamation Fund appropriation. Of the funds provided, 
     $33,904,000 shall be derived from the Abandoned Mine 
     Reclamation Fund and $135,000,000 shall be derived from the 
     General Fund. The Office is directed to work with States to 
     determine how reclamation grants may be used to address the 
     long term abatement and treatment of acid mine drainage.
       Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization (AMLER).--The 
     bill provides a total of $135,000,000 for grants to States 
     and federally recognized Indian Tribes for the reclamation of 
     abandoned mine lands in conjunction with economic and 
     community development and reuse goals. For fiscal year 2023, 
     $88,042,000 shall be divided equally between the three 
     Appalachian States with the largest unfunded needs for the 
     reclamation of Priority 1 and Priority 2 sites as delineated 
     in the AML Inventory System; $35,218,000 shall be divided 
     equally between the next three Appalachian States with the 
     largest unfunded needs for the reclamation of Priority 1 and 
     Priority 2 sites as delineated in the AML Inventory System; 
     and $11,740,000 shall be for grants to federally recognized 
     Indian Tribes. The Office is expected to continue to follow 
     the additional program direction provided in Senate Report 
     116-123. The Committees expect the Office to increase its 
     capacity and expertise to improve collaboration with States 
     and Tribes and to process proposed projects in a timely and 
     transparent manner. The detailed allocation of funding by 
     activity is included in the table accompanying this 
     explanatory statement.

                             INDIAN AFFAIRS

                        Bureau of Indian Affairs


                      OPERATION OF INDIAN PROGRAMS

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)

       The bill provides $1,906,998,000 for Operation of Indian 
     Programs. All programs, projects, and activities are 
     maintained at fiscal year 2022 enacted levels, except fixed 
     costs and internal transfers as recast, or unless otherwise 
     specified below. Additional increases are general program 
     increases unless otherwise specified. For this and all other 
     Bureau accounts funded in this bill, Indian Affairs is 
     expected to comply with the instructions and requirements at 
     the beginning of this division and in House Report 117-400, 
     unless otherwise specified below. Language contained in the 
     explanatory statement accompanying the Consolidated 
     Appropriations Act, 2022 (Public Law 117-103) regarding 
     Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW), advanced 
     training for public safety and justice training needs, Indian 
     Police Academy, the Tiwahe expansion plan, pre-fire detection 
     technology, Osage Nation records, law enforcement training 
     needs, Alaska Native housing mortgage assistance, tribal land 
     trash assessment, and MMIW Initiative comprehensive review is 
     restated. Additional details, instructions, and requirements 
     are included below and in the table at the end of this 
     division. Indian Affairs is reminded of the importance of 
     meeting reporting requirement deadlines so that the 
     Committees can properly evaluate programs. Failure to do so 
     could negatively impact future budgets.
       Tiwahe.--The bill includes additional funds, as noted 
     below, under Human Services to expand the Tiwahe Initiative 
     to more Tribes for human services-related Tiwahe activities. 
     As part of the expansion, the Bureau may consider including 
     Tribal consortiums as eligible entities. Further, the 
     Committees expect funding to existing Tiwahe pilot programs 
     to continue in the same amounts to the same recipients, 
     including funding to support women and children's shelters.
       Tribal Government.--The agreement provides $368,988,000 for 
     Tribal Government programs. The Committees encourage the 
     Bureau to provide technical assistance to the maximum extent 
     practicable to recently federally recognized Tribes on how 
     best to leverage funding through existing programs. Indian 
     Affairs is directed to brief the Committees on the status of 
     pending requests by Alaska Natives seeking organization under 
     the Alaska amendment to the Indian Reorganization Act and how 
     Indian Affairs plans to bring these pending cases to a 
     resolution.
       The Committees have consistently included funding and 
     directives regarding the Small and Needy Tribes supplement 
     and continue to be concerned about the overall administration 
     of this important program. Within 60 days of enactment of 
     this Act, the Committees direct the Bureau to prepare a 
     report for the current and prior two fiscal years identifying 
     which Tribes qualify for the small and needy supplement, 
     explaining in detail the methodology used to calculate each 
     Tribe's revenue to determine eligibility for the small and 
     needy supplement (listing the programs that are counted 
     against the cap), and provide a chart showing how those 
     calculations were made for each eligible Tribe each year. 
     Upon completion of the report, the Committees expect the 
     Bureau to post this data online for at least 60 days to 
     enable Tribes time to review it and confirm the correct data 
     is used before funds are distributed. Further, the Committees 
     understand the Bureau is undergoing
       Tribal consultation to determine if changes should be made 
     to the program and directs the agency to notify the 
     Committees within 30 days before adopting or finalizing any 
     changes to the current formula.
       The agreement also includes $39,190,000 for the Road 
     Maintenance program, which continues funding at fiscal year 
     2022 levels for school bus roads and the NATIVE Act (Public 
     Law 114-22). The Committees direct the Bureau to report back 
     within 60 days of enactment of this Act on funds provided to 
     implement the NATIVE Act that have not been utilized for 
     roads along with a strategy outlining how to meet the 
     increased demand to address tourism needs across Indian 
     Country. The BIA Road Maintenance and Repair program faces 
     significant backlogs with some roads in need of repair for 
     decades, including BIA Routes 3, 7, 8, and 12, which require 
     re-graveling and improvements to address safety concerns. The 
     Committees encourage BIA to fund these repair projects and 
     make the necessary safety improvements to the roads, within 
     funding limitations. Further, the Committees direct the 
     Bureau to report on implementation of the GAO-17-423 
     recommendations and provide an allocation and obligation 
     plan for fiscal year 2023 funding within 60 days of 
     enactment of this Act.
       Human Services.--The bill provides $166,985,000 for Human 
     Services programs. The Committees provide $54,934,000 for 
     Social Services (TPA), which includes an additional 
     $1,000,000 to expand the Tiwahe Initiative to new sites, as 
     noted above, and an additional $1,000,000 to implement the 
     Indian Child Protection and Family Violence Prevention Act 
     (Public Law 101-630). For the Indian Child Welfare Act 
     program, $17,848,000 is provided, which includes an 
     additional $1,000,000 to expand the Tiwahe Initiative to new 
     sites, as noted above, and an additional $500,000 is included 
     to implement section 202 of the Indian Child Welfare Act (25 
     U.S.C. Sec. 1932). The agreement includes $12,219,000 for the 
     Housing Improvement Act. The Bureau is further directed to 
     provide to the Committees within 120 days of enactment of 
     this Act an analysis of Alaska Natives' eligibility for both 
     Housing Improvement Program mortgage assistance grants and 
     mortgages, as well as any barriers to affording new, energy-
     efficient homes in western Alaskan villages off-road system.
       Trust--Natural Resources Management.--The bill provides 
     $333,119,000 for Natural Resources Management programs, which 
     continues funding at the fiscal year 2022 enacted level for 
     the Everglades. For Natural Resources (TPA), the agreement 
     provides $16,903,000, which includes an additional $1,000,000 
     for the Indian Youth Service Corps and maintains funding for 
     land acquisitions for newly recognized or landless Tribes at 
     the authorized level. The Bureau is encouraged to work with 
     the committees of jurisdiction to evaluate whether a change 
     in authorization for land acquisition is warranted. The 
     agreement includes an additional $1,000,000 to replace the 
     National Indian Irrigation Management System in Irrigation 
     Operations and Maintenance programs for a total funding level 
     of $15,269,000. The agreement provides $49,200,000 for Rights 
     Protection Implementation (RPI), which maintains funding for 
     law enforcement needs, operations and maintenance needs, and 
     includes $1,300,000 for construction, all as required to 
     implement the Columbia River In-Lieu and Treaty Fishing 
     Access Sites Improvement Act (Public Law 116-99). Within the 
     general program increase for RPI, the Committees expect 
     funding to be distributed to all those who receive 
     distributions, including funding for tribes who must 
     implement terms of the Pacific Salmon Treaty.
       The bill provides $18,544,000 for Tribal Management/
     Development programs (TMDP), which includes a general program 
     increase of $3,000,000 to be distributed to all the lines 
     within the funding allocation table and an additional 
     $1,000,000 to implement Public Law 116-260 with respect to 
     the return of the National Bison Range to the Confederated 
     Salish and Kootenai Tribe as outlined in the budget request. 
     The Committees are aware the Bureau entered into cooperative 
     agreements with Ahtna Inter-Tribal Resource Commission and 
     the Kuskokwim River Inter-Tribal Fisheries Commission and has 
     initiated similar agreements with other organizations. 
     Therefore, the Committees expect these pilot projects and 
     programs to continue, and the Bureau is expected to report to 
     the Committees within 60 days of enactment of this Act on a 
     distribution plan for these funds. An additional $1,000,000 
     is included for Endangered Species programs for uses as 
     proposed in the request for a total of $6,243,000.
       For Tribal Climate Resilience, the agreement provides 
     $34,991,000, which includes an additional $750,000 for Tribal 
     climate adaptation grants to be used by the Bureau to report 
     to the Committees within one year of enactment of this Act 
     information on the estimated unmet need of coastal Tribes in 
     the

[[Page S8653]]

     lower 48 states that are facing relocation due to climate 
     impacts. An additional $1,500,000 is provided for Tribal 
     relocation grants, for which all Tribes shall be eligible, 
     and $750,000 is to implement the Pathways Internship Program. 
     The Committees remind the Bureau that the Denali Commission 
     was designated as the lead coordinating agency for Alaska 
     Native village relocation in 2015, and the Commission has 
     been leading the efforts since then. The Committees recommend 
     the Bureau work closely with the Commission to avoid 
     duplication of work and to take advantage of the Commission's 
     expertise in the area when considering relocation grants.
       The bill provides $39,438,000 for Agriculture and Range 
     programs, which includes an additional $500,000 for the 
     invasive species program. For Forestry Programs, the 
     agreement provides $66,017,000, which provides a $2,500,000 
     general program increase for Forestry Program (TPA) and an 
     additional $1,000,000 in Forestry Projects for uses as 
     requested.
       For Water Resources programs, the agreement provides 
     $18,426,000, which includes $500,000 to install water 
     filtration systems, an additional $1,500,000 general program 
     increase for Water Resources (TPA), and an additional 
     $500,000 for the Water Resources Technician training program 
     in Water Management, Planning and Pre-development. For Fish, 
     Wildlife and Parks programs, the agreement provides 
     $23,699,000, which includes a $2,000,000 general program 
     increase for Wildlife and Parks (TPA) and an additional 
     $1,000,000 in Fish, Wildlife, and Parks Projects for 
     operation of fish hatcheries. As requested, the Committees 
     rename the Mineral and Mining program to Energy and Minerals 
     to encompass the full array of existing activities and 
     provide an additional $1,000,000 for uses as outlined in the 
     budget request.
       The Committees understand the investigation in the Chaco 
     Canyon region of the Southwest is complete. Funding provided 
     in previous years for this purpose are repurposed as a 
     general program increase in Resource Management Program 
     Oversight.
       Trust--Real Estate Services.--The bill provides 
     $159,003,000 for Trust--Real Estate Services, of which 
     $500,000 within Trust Services (TPA) is to implement the Gila 
     River Indian Community Federal Rights-of-Way, Easements and 
     Boundary Clarification Act (Public Law 115-350), an 
     additional $2,000,000 is to continue remediating open dumps 
     and prepare for other environmental quality challenges, and 
     an additional $1,000,000 is to complete demolition and 
     abatement of the vacant BIA buildings at Shiprock as detailed 
     in the budget request, both within Environmental Quality 
     Projects. Funding is continued at fiscal year 2022 enacted 
     levels with fixed costs for the Alaska Native Claims 
     Settlement Act historical places. An additional $1,374,000 is 
     included for additional realty staff as requested in Trust--
     Real Estate Services Oversight.
       Public Safety and Justice.--The bill provides $579,725,000 
     for Public Safety and Justice programs. For Criminal 
     Investigations and Police Services, the agreement includes 
     $7,000,000 for Tribes not receiving law enforcement services 
     or funding, as detailed below. The agreement maintains 
     $62,000,000 to implement public safety changes resulting from 
     the McGirt v. Oklahoma Supreme Court decision, however 
     funding is redistributed based on a reprogramming request by 
     the Bureau after consultation with impacted Tribes. As a 
     result, the amount for Criminal Investigations and Police 
     Services reflects a $15,546,000 transfer to Detentions/
     Corrections, and a $23,341,000 transfer to Tribal Courts 
     (TPA). Further, funds provided in fiscal year 2022 for 
     bodyworn cameras is repurposed as a general program increase, 
     as requested. Funding for MMIW cold cases, background checks 
     to hire more law enforcement officers, and law enforcement to 
     implement the Native American Graves Protection and 
     Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) is continued at fiscal year 2022 
     enacted levels. The Committees remain concerned about theft, 
     looting, and trafficking of sacred objects and items of 
     cultural patrimony, and note the importance of enforcing 
     NAGPRA and related laws. The bill continues funding for 
     opioids grants and maintains flexibility for use of the funds 
     against other illicit drugs.
       The Committees understand there are over 30 Tribes, 
     including some in Oregon, Wisconsin, and elsewhere, for which 
     BIA is responsible for providing law enforcement services, 
     but which are not receiving either direct services or funding 
     from BIA to provide the services on their own. The agreement 
     includes $7,000,000 for law enforcement services for these 
     Tribes. Within 30 days of enactment of this Act, the 
     Committees direct the Bureau to provide a report of all 
     Tribes that meet this requirement and the amount of 
     additional funding required to provide them parity in funding 
     with other Tribes. In addition, the Committees expect the 
     Bureau to consult with the Tribes regarding the allocation of 
     funds and to submit a subsequent reprogramming request to 
     allocate portions of the funding to other public safety and 
     justice functions as necessary.
       Within 90 days of enactment of this Act, the Bureau shall 
     brief the Committees on the status of law enforcement 
     vacancies in each Bureau region, as well as the number of law 
     enforcement background checks pending as of the date of 
     enactment.
       The agreement includes $136,324,000 for Detention/
     Corrections, which maintains previously provided increases 
     for Indian Country detention facilities and background 
     checks, and includes the previously mentioned transfer 
     because of the McGirt reprogramming. Due to reports of high 
     numbers of deaths in BIA-funded detention facilities, the 
     Committees direct the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) 
     to follow-up on closed OIG recommendations to determine 
     whether changes made by BIA in response to prior 
     recommendations are being implemented correctly. As part 
     of the review, the Committees expect the OIG to examine 
     appropriations provided for Detention/Corrections in prior 
     years to determine how the funds were spent and whether 
     they were spent correctly. This review should begin no 
     later than 60 days after enactment of this Act.
       The agreement includes $25,094,000 for Law Enforcement 
     Special Initiatives, which continues funding at enacted 
     levels for the MMIW Tribal Public Safety initiative, Tiwahe 
     recidivism initiative, equipment to collect and preserve 
     evidence at crime scenes, and victim witness specialists.
       For Tribal Justice Support, $34,836,000 is provided, which 
     maintains $3,000,000 to implement and ensure compliance with 
     the Violence Against Women Act and provides an additional 
     $2,000,000 to address the needs of Tribes affected by Public 
     Law 93-280 as outlined in the Senate Report 116-123. The 
     agreement includes $71,770,000 for Tribal Courts (TPA), of 
     which an additional $1,000,000 is for operation and 
     maintenance of courts, as requested.
       Community and Economic Development.--The bill provides 
     $31,172,000 for Community and Economic Development programs, 
     which includes $13,759,000 for Job Placement and Training 
     (TPA), $5,855,000 for Economic development (TPA), of which an 
     additional $500,000 is for business incubators; and 
     $11,558,000 is for Community Development Central Oversight, 
     of which an additional $2,000,000 is for grants to federally 
     recognized Indian Tribes and Tribal organizations to provide 
     native language instruction and immersion programs to Native 
     students not enrolled at BIE schools, including those Tribes 
     and organizations in states without Bureau-funded schools. 
     Funding for Public Law 114-22 is maintained at the fiscal 
     year 2022 enacted level, less a transfer of $1,176,000 to the 
     Office of the Secretary to carry out the program for Native 
     Hawaiian Organizations.
       Executive Direction and Administrative Services.--The bill 
     includes $263,766,000 for Executive Direction and 
     Administrative Services, of which: $19,409,000 is for 
     Assistant Secretary support, which maintains funding to 
     implement the PROGRESS Act, the Diversity and Inclusion 
     program for BIA and OST, and the Native boarding school 
     initiative. Within Administrative Services (Central), $74,000 
     is provided for fixed costs while no fixed costs are included 
     for Administrative Services (Regional). Within Human Capital 
     Management, an additional $160,000 is provided for uses as 
     requested. The bill includes $4,240,000 for Special 
     Initiatives identified in the table titled ``Interior and 
     Environment Incorporation of Community Project Funding Items/
     Congressionally Directed Spending Items'' included at the end 
     of this division.


                       InDIAN LAND CONSOLIDATION

       The bill provides $8,000,000 for Indian Land Consolidation. 
     Within 30 days of enactment of this Act, the Bureau is 
     directed to submit administrative expense estimates and 
     performance metrics, including the proposed number of 
     fractionated interests to be purchased and acreage 
     consolidated. Going forward, the Bureau is expected to 
     include this data in the annual budget justification.


                         CONTRACT SUPPORT COSTS

       The bill provides an indefinite appropriation for contract 
     support costs, consistent with fiscal year 2022 and estimated 
     to be $328,000,000 in fiscal year 2023.


                       PAYMENTS FOR TRIBAL LEASES

       The bill provides an indefinite appropriation for payments 
     under section 105(l) of the Indian Self-Determination and 
     Education Assistance Act, consistent with fiscal year 2022 
     and estimated to be $30,000,000 in fiscal year 2023.


                              CONSTRUCTION

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The bill provides $153,309,000 for Construction. All 
     programs, projects, and activities are maintained at fiscal 
     year 2022 levels, except for fixed cost and transfers as 
     recast, or unless otherwise specified below. Increases are 
     general program increases unless otherwise noted. Language 
     contained in the explanatory statement accompanying the 
     Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2022 (Public Law 117-103) 
     regarding the San Carlos Apache Tribe's public safety 
     facilities is restated.
       Public Safety and Justice Construction.--The bill provides 
     $51,561,000 for Public Safety and Justice Construction 
     programs and includes the following: $33,500,000 for 
     facilities replacement and new construction; $4,744,000 for 
     employee housing; $9,872,000 for facilities improvement and 
     repair; $171,000 for fire safety coordination; and $3,274,000 
     for fire protection.
       The Bureau is expected to distribute funds provided in this 
     Act to expeditiously complete construction of adult detention 
     center projects that were previously awarded. Remaining 
     amounts should be considered available for all public safety 
     and justice facilities, consistent with previous direction. 
     Direction is provided for the Bureau to: (1) produce a plan 
     on how to spend unobligated public safety and justice 
     balances on facilities in poor condition; and (2) provide the

[[Page S8654]]

     plan to the Committees within 120 days of enactment of this 
     Act.
       Resources Management Construction.--The bill provides 
     $75,213,000 for Resources Management Construction programs. 
     Within this amount, $28,716,000 is for irrigation project 
     construction, of which $10,000,000 is continued for projects 
     authorized by the WIIN Act (Public Law 114--322). The 
     Committees expect the funds designated for WIIN Act 
     activities will be deposited into the Indian Irrigation Fund 
     to fund those projects authorized by Public Law 114--322. 
     Further, the agreement includes $2,758,000 for engineering 
     and supervision; $1,016,000 for survey and design; $671,000 
     for Federal power compliance; and $42,052,000 for dam safety 
     and maintenance, which includes an additional $1,000,000 for 
     dam maintenance. The Committees direct the Bureau to begin 
     dam safety work expeditiously and to provide a report to the 
     Committees on the number of reservation dams in need of a 
     safety review and hazard classification.
       Other Program Construction.--The bill provides $26,535,000 
     for Other Program Construction. This amount provides 
     $2,419,000 for telecommunications, which includes $1,000,000 
     for the Interior-wide field communication modernization 
     project; $4,619,000 for facilities and quarters, which 
     includes an additional $550,000 for fleet management 
     infrastructure; and $19,497,000 for program management, and 
     an additional $74,000 to continue the project at Fort Peck.


 INDIAN LAND AND WATER CLAIM SETTLEMENTS AND MISCELLANEOUS PAYMENTS TO 
                                INDIANS

       The bill provides $825,000 for Indian Land and Water Claim 
     Settlements and Miscellaneous Payments to Indians. Additional 
     details are included in the bill language and in the table at 
     the end of this division.


                 INDIAN GUARANTEED LOAN PROGRAM ACCOUNT

       The bill provides $13,884,000 for the Indian Guaranteed 
     Loan Program Account to facilitate business investments in 
     Indian Country. This includes a general program increase and 
     funding to expand technical assistance, both as requested.

                       Bureau of Indian Education


                 OPERATION OF INDIAN EDUCATION PROGRAMS

       Bureau of Indian Education.--The bill includes 
     $1,133,552,000 for Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) Operation 
     of Indian Education Programs. All programs, projects, and 
     activities are maintained at fiscal year 2022 enacted levels, 
     except for fixed costs and internal transfers as recast, or 
     unless otherwise specified below. Increases are general 
     program increases unless otherwise specified. For this and 
     all other Bureau accounts funded in this bill, the Bureau 
     is expected to comply with the instructions and 
     requirements at the beginning of this division and in 
     House Report 117-400, unless otherwise specified below. 
     Additional details, instructions, and requirements follow 
     below and in the table at the end of this division. 
     Language contained in the explanatory statement 
     accompanying the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 
     (Public Law 116-260) regarding displaying amounts required 
     to comply with Department of Defense Education Activity, 
     collecting fixed cost information from Tribal colleges and 
     universities, and Tribal colleges and universities 
     operations, maintenance, and infrastructure needs is 
     restated.
       Elementary/Secondary Programs (forward funded).--The bill 
     includes $706,185,000 for Elementary/Secondary Programs. 
     Tribal grant support costs are fully funded. Within Education 
     Program Enhancements, $2,153,000 is included for teacher 
     recruitment and retention, as requested, and an additional 
     $2,000,000 is included for Native language immersion grants 
     at BIE-funded schools. An additional $3,000,000 is provided 
     in Early Child and Family Development to increase support for 
     existing early child and family development programs and to 
     expand to new programs.
       Post-Secondary Programs (forward funded).--Post-secondary 
     programs (forward-funded) are provided with $127,407,000, 
     which includes $2,000,000 for endowments at Tribal colleges 
     and universities.
       Johnson O'Malley.--The agreement provides $21,570,000 for 
     Johnson O'Malley programs. In prior years, the Committees 
     included funding for capacity building but for fiscal year 
     2023, this funding is repurposed as a general program 
     increase. Indian Affairs is expected to comply with the 
     reporting requirements in House Report 117-400 as well as 
     develop recommended processes and timelines to ensure the JOM 
     program operates effectively and efficiently and to submit a 
     report to the Committees within 120 days from enactment of 
     this Act on the progress being made towards meeting GAO 
     recommendations. Further Indian Affairs is expected to 
     include estimates of necessary appropriations levels to 
     provide per pupil funding levels equal to the fiscal year 
     2018 level per pupil levels for all newly reported eligible 
     students.
       Education Management.--The agreement includes $39,291,000 
     for Education Management, which includes increases as 
     requested for Education Program Management and an additional 
     $4,000,000 for requested Education IT uses. Within 90 days of 
     enactment of this Act, the Bureau is directed to provide a 
     detailed spend plan with timelines for the Education IT 
     funds.


                         EDUCATION CONSTRUCTION

       Education Construction.--The bill provides $267,887,000 for 
     schools and related facilities within the BIE system. All 
     programs, projects, and activities are maintained at fiscal 
     year 2022 levels, except for requested fixed costs and 
     internal transfers, or unless otherwise specified below. All 
     increases are general program increases unless otherwise 
     noted below. Language contained in the explanatory statement 
     accompanying the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 
     (Public Law 116-260) regarding Tribal college and university 
     operations, maintenance and infrastructure needs is restated. 
     The agreement includes the following: $116,504,000 for 
     replacement school campus construction; $23,935,000 for 
     replacement facility construction; $1,500,000 for 
     replacement/new employee housing; $13,595,000 for employee 
     housing repair; $96,353,000 for facilities improvement and 
     repair; and $16,000,000 for Tribal colleges and universities' 
     facilities requirements.

           Office of the Special Trustee for American Indians


                         FEDERAL TRUST PROGRAMS

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The agreement provides $111,272,000 for the Office of the 
     Special Trustee for American Indians (OST) and rejects the 
     proposed budget structure for a new Bureau of Trust Funds 
     Administration (BTFA) within the Office of the Assistant 
     Secretary-Indian Affairs. This should not be construed as 
     interfering with the statutorily required sunset of OST. This 
     amount includes fixed costs as recast and internal transfers 
     to effectuate historical trust accounting. It does not 
     include requested internal transfers for new employees, nor 
     are any funds included for these positions. The Committees 
     await a requested Government Accountability Office report 
     expected to be completed in 2023.

                          Departmental Offices

                        Office of the Secretary


                        DEPARTMENTAL OPERATIONS

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The bill provides $135,884,000 for the Office of the 
     Secretary, Departmental Operations appropriation. Specific 
     allocations at the activity level are contained in the table 
     at the back of this explanatory statement. Fixed costs are 
     provided as requested. The bill provides $1,176,000 for 
     implementation of the NATIVE Act, equal to the enacted level, 
     and previously provided through the Bureau of Indian Affairs. 
     The Committees recommend not less than $500,000 to carry out 
     land assessments, appraisals, surveys and other activities in 
     support of the Secretary's responsibilities under the 
     Hawaiian Home Lands Recovery Act, including up to $200,000 to 
     add capacity related to infrastructure programs.
       Indian and Arts and Crafts Board [IACB].--The bill includes 
     not less than $1,806,000 for the IACB, an increase of 
     $125,000 to the request to enhance support activities related 
     to enforcement of the Indian Arts and Crafts Act.
       Plum Island.--The Committees express support for the 
     permanent conservation of Plum Island for the protection in 
     perpetuity of its natural and cultural resources. The 
     Committees request that the Department of the Interior, in 
     conjunction with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) 
     and the General Services Administration, provide a briefing 
     to the Committees regarding the closure and disposal process 
     for the island's permanent conservation, the possibility of 
     interim ecological management, and options for permanent 
     ownership of Plum Island, including management of and 
     partnerships with State, Federal, and Tribal entities, 
     potential costs for managing the island, the status and 
     schedule of cleanup and monitoring, and the procedures for a 
     subsequent owner to invoke DHS's responsibility to ensure 
     that DHS's certification that its remedial actions on Plum 
     Island protect human health and the environment remains 
     valid.
       Zero Emission Vehicles [ZEV].--The bill includes funding 
     within the Department's bureaus for the Department-wide 
     initiative to begin installing, or securing access to, 
     electric charging and hydrogen fueling stations to support 
     the ZEV transition and to replace vehicles at the end of 
     their life cycle with ZEVs. The Committees appreciate the 
     Department's efforts to ensure that all new charging 
     infrastructure provides universal access to all types of 
     electric vehicles by utilizing the U.S. standard level 2.

                            Insular Affairs


                       ASSISTANCE TO TERRITORIES

       The bill provides $120,357,000 for Assistance to 
     Territories. The detailed allocation of funding is included 
     in the table at the end of this explanatory statement.
       Kwajalein Masterplan Implementation.--The Office is 
     directed to report to the Committees within 180 days of 
     enactment of this Act on implementation of activities the 
     Department is undertaking pursuant to the Kwajalein Atoll 
     Masterplan to address the special needs of communities within 
     Kwajalein Atoll.

                      Compact of Free Association

       The bill provides $8,463,000 for Compact of Free 
     Association, equal to the fiscal year 2022 enacted level. A 
     detailed table of funding allocations below the account level 
     is provided at the end of this explanatory statement.
       Compact of Free Association--Federal Services.--The 
     Committees recommend $7,813,000 for Federal Services, equal 
     to the enacted level and the budget request. The Committees 
     recognize the importance of the relationship between the 
     United States and the

[[Page S8655]]

     Republic of the Marshall Islands and provides $5,000,000 as 
     the fourth and final payment towards the $20,000,000 
     requested by the Republic of the Marshall Islands in 
     September 2009 for Compensatory Adjustments, as authorized in 
     section 111(d) of the Compact of Free Association Act of 1986 
     (Public Law 99-239; 99 Stat. 1799; 48 U.S.C. 1911) and 
     section 108(b) of the Compact of Free Association Amendments 
     Act of 2003 (Public Law 108-188; 117 Stat. 2755; 48 U.S.C. 
     1921g). The Compacts and related laws provided for an 
     additional $40,000,000 available to the Freely Associated 
     States for compensatory adjustments which, if not 
     substantiated by a party to the Compact to the fully 
     authorized level within 15 years, could be applied to another 
     nation. The Committees direct the Office to submit to 
     Congress within 180 days of enactment of this Act a plan to 
     apply unsubstantiated funds to eligible nations. The 
     Committees are encouraged by reports regarding progress 
     towards renegotiation of expiring Compacts of Free 
     Association and directs the Office to brief the Committees 
     quarterly on the status of these negotiations.

                        Office of the Solicitor


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The bill provides $101,050,000 for the Salaries and 
     Expenses appropriation within the Office of the Solicitor. 
     Specific allocations at the activity level are contained in 
     the table at the back of this explanatory statement. The 
     Committees provide fixed costs and internal transfers, as 
     requested. Remaining funds may be used to fund necessary 
     costs required for office moves. To the extent funding is 
     available, the Committees urge the office to consider further 
     increases to staffing to address the department-wide backlog 
     of pending Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests.FOIA 
     Office staff are directed to brief the Committees 
     semiannually on their efforts related to the backlog.

                      Office of Inspector General


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The bill provides $67,000,000 for the Office of Inspector 
     General.

                        Department-Wide Programs


                        WILDLAND FIRE MANAGEMENT

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)

       The bill provides $663,786,000 for Department of the 
     Interior Wildland Fire Management. In total, the annual 
     funding for fire suppression operations at the Department is 
     $798,657,000, including $458,657,000 in emergency funding and 
     $340,000,000 in the Wildfire Suppression Operations Reserve 
     Fund. The bill also provides an additional $45,343,000 for 
     preparedness in emergency supplemental funding. The detailed 
     allocation of funding by activity is included in the table 
     accompanying this explanatory statement.
       Other Operations.--The bill provides $281,970,000 for other 
     wildland fire management operations. The Department will 
     continue to follow the directives included in the explanatory 
     statement accompanying Public Law 117-103 under the ``Other 
     Operations'' heading. The Department must continue to develop 
     technologies to allow aerial suppression assets to safely 
     operate in degraded visual environments, specifically 
     wildfire smoke, and should solicit external information to 
     better understand industry capabilities in this arena. The 
     Department is directed to provide $4,500,000 to the Joint 
     Fire Science program for fiscal year 2023, which combined 
     with funding in the Forest Service provides $9,000,000 in 
     total.


              WILDFIRE SUPPRESSION OPERATIONS RESERVE FUND

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)

       The bill includes $340,000,000 for the Wildfire Suppression 
     Operations Reserve Fund, which is $10,000,000 above the 
     enacted level. S. Con. Res. 14 (117th Congress), the 
     concurrent resolution on the budget for fiscal year 2022 and 
     section 1(g) of H. Res. 1151 (117th Congress), as engrossed 
     in the House of Representatives on June 8, 2022, included a 
     budget cap adjustment for wildfire suppression costs and this 
     additional funding is included for fiscal year 2023.


                    CENTRAL HAZARDOUS MATERIALS FUND

       The bill provides $10,064,000 for the Central Hazardous 
     Materials Fund appropriation.


                ENERGY COMMUNITY REVITALIZATION PROGRAM

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)

       The agreement provides $5,000,000 for the Energy Community 
     Revitalization Program. The Department is expected to comply 
     with the instructions in House Report 117-400. The detailed 
     allocation of funding is included in the table at the end of 
     this explanatory statement.


           NATURAL RESOURCE DAMAGE ASSESSMENT AND RESTORATION

                NATURAL RESOURCE DAMAGE ASSESSMENT FUND

       The bill provides $8,037,000 for the Natural Resource 
     Damage Assessment Fund appropriation. Specific allocations at 
     the activity level are contained in the table at the end of 
     this explanatory statement.


                          WORKING CAPITAL FUND

       The bill provides $112,198,000 for the Working Capital Fund 
     appropriation.


                  OFFICE OF NATURAL RESOURCES REVENUE

       The bill provides $174,934,000 for the Natural Resources 
     Revenue appropriation.
       Distribution of GOMESA Revenues.--The Office is directed to 
     distribute revenues from Gulf of Mexico operations in a 
     manner consistent with current law, including the Gulf of 
     Mexico Energy Security Act (GOMESA) of 2006 (Public Law 109-
     432), as amended.

             General Provisions, Department of the Interior


                     (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)

       The bill includes various legislative provisions affecting 
     the Department in Title I of the bill, ``General Provisions, 
     Department of the Interior.'' The provisions are:
       Section 101 provides Secretarial authority for the intra-
     bureau transfer of program funds for expenditures in cases of 
     emergencies when all other emergency funds are exhausted.
       Section 102 provides for the Department-wide expenditure or 
     transfer of funds by the Secretary in the event of actual or 
     potential emergencies including forest fires, range fires, 
     earthquakes, floods, volcanic eruptions, storms, oil spills, 
     grasshopper and Mormon cricket outbreaks, and surface mine 
     reclamation emergencies.
       Section 103 provides for the use of appropriated funds by 
     the Secretary for contracts, rental cars and aircraft, 
     telephone expenses, and other certain services.
       Section 104 provides for the expenditure or transfer of 
     funds from the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Bureau of Indian 
     Education, and the Office of the Special Trustee for American 
     Indians, for Indian trust management and reform activities.
       Section 105 permits the redistribution of Tribal priority 
     allocation and Tribal base funds to alleviate funding 
     inequities.
       Section 106 authorizes the acquisition of lands for the 
     purpose of operating and maintaining facilities that support 
     visitors to Ellis, Governors, and Liberty Islands.
       Section 107 continues Outer Continental Shelf inspection 
     fees to be collected by the Secretary of the Interior.
       Section 108 provides the Secretary of the Interior with 
     authority to enter into multi-year cooperative agreements 
     with non-profit organizations for long-term care of wild 
     horses and burros.
       Section 109 addresses the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's 
     responsibilities for mass marking of salmonid stocks.
       Section 110 allows the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Bureau 
     of Indian Education to more efficiently and effectively 
     perform reimbursable work.
       Section 111 provides for the establishment of a Department 
     of the Interior Experienced Services Program.
       Section 112 requires funds to be available for obligation 
     and expenditure not later than 60 days after the date of 
     enactment.
       Section 113 provides the Secretary of the Interior the 
     ability to transfer funds among and between the Bureau of 
     Indian Affairs and the Bureau of Indian Education.
       Section 114 provides funding for the Payments in Lieu of 
     Taxes (PILT) program.
       Section 115 directs notification of any deviation in 
     procedure or equipment.
       Section 116 allows the National Park Service to convey 
     lands for purposes of transportation and recreation for a 
     specific project.
       Section 117 authorizes Tribally controlled schools access 
     to interagency motor vehicles in the same manner as if 
     performing activities under the Indian Self Determination and 
     Education Assistance Act.
       Section 118 addresses National Heritage Areas.
       Section 119 provides the Secretary of the Interior with 
     certain pay authority for the Appraisal and Valuation 
     Services Office.
       Section 120 addresses the issuance of rules for sage-
     grouse.
       Section 121 authorizes the National Park Service to retain 
     up to 7 percent of State Conservation Grants to provide 
     matching grants to support state program administrative 
     costs.
       Section 122 allows additional funding to be provided for 
     Lowell National Historical Park.
       Section 123 extends Visitor Experience Improvement 
     authority by two years.
       Section 124 extends the authorization for the Delaware 
     Water Gap National Recreation Area.

               TITLE II--ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

       The agreement provides $10,135,433,000 for the 
     Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The Agency is expected 
     to comply with the instructions and requirements at the 
     beginning of this division and in House Report 117-400, 
     unless otherwise specified below. Additional details, 
     instructions, and requirements follow below and in the table 
     at the end of this division.
       Congressional Budget Justification.--The Committees direct 
     the Agency to include in future justifications the provisions 
     included in the joint explanatory statement accompanying 
     Public Law 116-260.
       Operating Plan.--Within 30 days of enactment of this Act, 
     the Agency is directed to submit to the House and Senate 
     Committees on Appropriations its annual operating plan for 
     fiscal year 2023. The operating plan shall adhere to the 
     program area levels, and where applicable, the program 
     project levels, specified within this explanatory statement. 
     For program project levels not otherwise specified herein, 
     the operating plan should detail how the Agency plans to 
     allocate funds at the program project level. Further, the 
     budgets of each major office should be itemized to indicate 
     the source of funds for each major office by program project 
     level. Further, the Agency is directed to continue the 
     longstanding practice of submitting quarterly statement of 
     balances reports, and the Agency is directed to display data 
     separately for both the current fiscal year and the prior 
     fiscal year.

[[Page S8656]]

       Workforce and Staffing Plans.--The Committees direct the 
     Agency to adhere to the provisions included in the joint 
     explanatory statement accompanying Public Law 116-260.
       PFAS and Contaminants of Emerging Concern.--The Committees 
     encourage the Agency to continue to take action on PFAS, 
     including addressing contamination, advancing clean up and 
     treatment solutions, conducting research, and undertaking 
     needed rulemaking actions. Within 60 days of enactment of 
     this Act, the Agency is directed to brief the Committees on 
     planned fiscal year 2023 PFAS-related actions and provide the 
     Committees with a spend plan that details funding at the 
     program project level.
       Combination of Separate Fiscal Year Grant Funding.--The 
     Committees continue the directive contained in the joint 
     explanatory statement accompanying Public Law 116-260.
       Changes to Grant Formulas or Allocations.--The Committees 
     are concerned that the Agency has proposed changes to a 
     categorical grant funding allocation without providing the 
     Committees any notification. The Agency is directed to brief 
     the Committees before making any allocation or formula change 
     to a grant.


                         SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

       For Science and Technology programs, the agreement provides 
     $802,276,000. The bill transfers $31,607,000 from the 
     Hazardous Substance Superfund account to this account. The 
     agreement provides the following specific funding levels and 
     direction:
       Clean Air.--The Committees direct the Agency to provide a 
     briefing within 60 days of enactment of this Act on current 
     and future plans for the Clean Air Status and Trends Network, 
     National Trends Network, and Ammonia Monitoring Network as 
     well as funding requirements to keep the networks active at 
     their fiscal year 2021 levels, including anticipated fixed 
     cost increases.
       The Committees appreciate the work of the Agency to advance 
     the rule permitting the production, transfer, and use of 
     Renewable Fuels Standard credits from renewable electricity, 
     also referred to as eRINS. The Committees urge the Agency to 
     continue this rulemaking in a timely manner, including 
     processing all pending pathway petitions.
       Research: Air and Energy.--Within available funds, the 
     Committees continue funding for the study under the heading 
     ``Partnership Research'' contained in the explanatory 
     statement of Public Law 115-141.
       Research: Chemical Safety for Sustainability.--Of the funds 
     provided, $1,500,000 shall be used to develop and demonstrate 
     nano-sensor technology with functionalized catalysts that 
     have potential to degrade selected contaminants in addition 
     to detecting and monitoring pollutants.
       Research: National Priorities.--The agreement provides 
     $30,751,000 for Research: National Priorities, including 
     $9,500,000 for extramural research grants, independent of the 
     Science to Achieve Results (STAR) grant program, as specified 
     under this heading in Public Law 116-260.
       The Committees support the Agency's effort to prioritize 
     new federal research that will help farmers, ranchers, and 
     rural communities manage PFAS impacts in agricultural 
     settings and communities and provide $8,000,000 to continue 
     that work. The Agency is directed to work with the U.S. 
     Department of Agriculture to invest in agronomic research to 
     better understand PFAS uptake into plants and animals to help 
     reduce PFAS exposure in our food supply and promote farm 
     viability.
       The agreement provides $13,251,000 for Congressionally 
     Directed Spending grants. Further detail on the projects is 
     located in the table titled ``Interior and Environment 
     Incorporation of Community Project Funding Items/
     Congressionally Directed Spending Items'' accompanying this 
     explanatory statement.
       Research: Safe and Sustainable Water Resources.--Of the 
     funds provided, up to $5,000,000 shall be used for grants 
     under section 2007 of America's Water Infrastructure Act 
     (P.L. 115-270).
       Additional Guidance.--The following additional guidance is 
     included:
       Harmful Algal Blooms.--The agreement provides $6,000,000 
     and the Agency is directed to follow the guidance in House 
     Report 117-83 and Senate Report 116-123.
       Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) program.--In lieu 
     of the directive in House Report 117-400 under the heading, 
     ``Maintaining IRIS Program Integrity,'' the Agency is 
     directed to follow the guidance in the joint explanatory 
     statement accompanying Public Law 117-103.
       Landfill Emissions Research.--The Committees encourage the 
     Agency to prioritize efforts to refine greenhouse gas and air 
     pollutant measurement. In particular, municipal solid waste 
     landfills continue to be a significant source of greenhouse 
     gas and hazardous air pollutant emissions. The Committees 
     direct that at least $2,000,000 be used by the Office of 
     Research and Development to support research to quantify 
     emissions of methane and hazardous air pollutants from 
     landfills using the most effective technologies, including 
     near-infrared imaging from satellites as appropriate, and, 
     during the times the emissions are measured, measurement of 
     any quantity of methane captured by the landfill gas 
     collection system.
       New Approach Methods.--The Agency is directed to follow the 
     guidance in the joint explanatory statement accompanying 
     Public Law 117-103.
       Plastics.--The Committees support the Agency's research on 
     plastics in water supplies, including microplastics, 
     nanoplastics, and plastic pellets, and encourage the Agency 
     to characterize the risks to human and ecosystem health.
       Science to Achieve Results (STAR) Grants.--The agreement 
     provides funds to continue the STAR program and directs the 
     Agency to distribute grants consistent with fiscal year 2022. 
     The Committees also direct that funding for Children's 
     Environmental Health and Disease Prevention be continued. The 
     Committees support the efforts of the Agency to focus this 
     funding on research related to early life stage, including 
     prenatal, vulnerabilities to environmental stressors. The 
     Agency is directed to brief the Committees on the program 
     within 60 days of enactment of this Act.
       Water Security Test Bed.--Consistent with House Report 117-
     400 direction, the agreement provides up to $1,500,000 for 
     advancing full scale applied research and testing 
     capabilities to address threats to drinking water and 
     associated infrastructure at Water Security Test Bed 
     facilities.
       Wildfire Smoke Research.--The Agency is directed to follow 
     the guidance in the joint explanatory statement accompanying 
     Public Law 117-103.


                 ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAMS AND MANAGEMENT

       For Environmental Programs and Management, the bill 
     provides $3,286,330,000. The agreement provides the following 
     specific funding levels and direction:
       Clean Air.--The Committees recognize the value of and 
     continue to support the EnergySTAR program and other programs 
     where EPA works collaboratively with non-governmental 
     entities to identify beneficial methods to reduce emissions, 
     reduce pollution, or increase efficiency.
       The agreement provides up to $3,000,000 for the Agency to 
     study and prototype capabilities for a greenhouse gas 
     monitoring and information system that will integrate data 
     from a variety of sources. The goal of such a system should 
     be to make data more accessible and usable to Federal, State, 
     Tribal, and local governments, researchers, the public, and 
     other users. The Committees encourage the Agency to work with 
     current and new partners to utilize commercial assets to 
     monitor emissions.
       The Committees commend the Agency for its efforts through 
     the AirNow Fire and Smoke Map to better forecast and 
     communicate the impact of wildfire smoke on communities. The 
     Committees are concerned that air quality monitors are not 
     currently distributed equitably across impacted communities. 
     The Committees encourage the Agency to expand its support for 
     wildfire smoke monitoring, including improving 
     instrumentation, technical assistance, and outreach, using 
     the resources provided in this bill with a focus on 
     traditionally underserved or under-monitored communities. The 
     bill includes an increase of $3,000,000 in accordance with 
     the request for wildfire smoke-related activities.
       The agreement provides a $1,000,000 increase to the fiscal 
     year enacted level for the Agency's wood stove certification 
     and testing standards work. The Agency is directed to use the 
     additional $1,000,000 to increase its staffing and other 
     required efforts to support the wood stove certification and 
     testing program. The Agency is further directed to brief the 
     Committees within 60 days of enactment of this Act on 
     improvements the Agency plans to make to the program and how 
     it will better communicate with State and local stakeholders.
       Environmental Protection: National Priorities.--The 
     agreement provides $30,700,000, an increase of $5,000,000 
     above the enacted level, for a competitive grant program for 
     qualified non-profit organizations to provide technical 
     assistance for improved water quality or safe drinking water, 
     adequate waste-water to small systems, or individual private 
     well owners. The Agency shall provide $26,000,000 for 
     Grassroots Rural and Small Community Water Systems Assistance 
     Act (Public Law 114-98), for activities specified under 
     section 1442(e) of the Safe Drinking Water Act (42 U.S.C. 
     300j-1(e)(8)). The Agency is also directed to provide 
     $3,450,000 for grants to qualified not-for-profit 
     organizations for technical assistance for individual private 
     well owners, with priority given to organizations that 
     currently provide technical and educational assistance to 
     individual private well owners. The Agency is directed to 
     provide on a national and multi-State regional basis, 
     $1,250,000 for grants to qualified organizations for the sole 
     purpose of providing on-site training and technical 
     assistance for wastewater systems. The Agency shall require 
     each grantee to provide a minimum 10 percent match, including 
     in-kind contributions. The Agency is directed to allocate 
     funds to grantees within 180 days of enactment of this Act.
       Geographic Programs.--The agreement provides $681,726,000 
     as described in the table at the end of this division, and 
     includes the following direction:
       Great Lakes Restoration Initiative.--The Agency shall 
     continue to follow the direction as provided in House Report 
     117-83 and Senate Report 115--276 related to the Great Lakes 
     Restoration Initiative.
       Chesapeake Bay.--From the total amount provided, at least 
     $10,000,000 is for nutrient and sediment removal grants, at 
     least $10,000,000 is for small watershed grants to control 
     polluted runoff from urban, suburban and agricultural lands, 
     and at least $8,000,000 is for state-based implementation in 
     the most effective basins.

[[Page S8657]]

       San Francisco Bay.--The Committees direct the Agency to 
     undertake priority activities within the San Francisco Bay 
     estuary Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan 
     approved under section 320 of the Clean Water Act.
       Puget Sound.--The Agency is directed to follow the guidance 
     in House Report 117-83.
       Long Island Sound.--The Agency is directed to follow the 
     guidance in House Report 117-83.
       South Florida.--Within the funds provided, the Committees 
     recommend at least $2,000,000 to monitor coral health in 
     South Florida; $1,150,000 to enhance water quality and 
     seagrass monitoring in the Caloosahatchee Estuary and Indian 
     River Lagoon, especially with respect to assessing the impact 
     of Lake Okeechobee discharges and harmful algal blooms; 
     $1,150,000 to enhance water quality and seagrass monitoring 
     in Florida Bay and Biscayne Bay, especially with respect to 
     assessing the impact of Everglades Restoration projects and 
     harmful algal blooms; and $1,000,000 for the expansion of the 
     water quality and ecosystem health monitoring and prediction 
     network which will use vetted, modern procedures for long-
     term monitoring of Florida waters, including Molecular, 
     Algal, Ocean Floor, and Seagrasses.
       Gulf of Mexico.--The Committees note that hypoxia continues 
     to be a growing cause for concern. The Committees direct the 
     Agency to coordinate with the Department of Agriculture, the 
     Gulf States, and other State, local, and private partners to 
     leverage greater resources toward conservation projects on 
     working-lands within the Gulf Region and Mississippi River 
     Basin. The Agency is directed to distribute funds in the same 
     manner as fiscal year 2022.
       Lake Champlain.--These funds shall be allocated through the 
     Lake Champlain Basin Program, other than $8,000,000 which 
     shall be directed to support significant, impactful projects 
     identified in the State implementation plan that will make 
     measurable progress towards meeting the phosphorus 
     reduction targets of the EPA's 2016 Phosphorus Total 
     Maximum Daily Load Plan for Lake Champlain.
       Southern New England Estuaries.--The Agency is directed to 
     follow the guidance in House Report 117-83.
       Lake Pontchartrain.--The Lake Pontchartrain Restoration 
     Program has been administered through the active 
     participation of stakeholders within the sixteen-parish basin 
     since the program's inception and the Committees expects 
     local stakeholder consensus to continue to play an integral 
     role in the approval of recommended projects. The Committees 
     are concerned regarding changes the Agency is proposing to 
     the program in light of Public Law 117-58. The Agency is 
     directed to brief the Committees within 60 days of enactment 
     of this Act on these potential changes.
       Great Lakes and Lake Champlain Invasive Species Program.--
     The Committees appreciate the ongoing research to combat 
     aquatic nuisance species transported by commercial shipping 
     and ballast water operations in order to implement the Great 
     Lakes and Lake Champlain Invasive Species Program as 
     authorized by the Vessel Incident Discharge Act (Public Law 
     115-282). The Committees direct the Agency to use funds from 
     the appropriate Geographic Program to build on these 
     implementation efforts to reduce the risk of introduction of 
     invasive species into the Great Lakes and Lake Champlain. The 
     Agency is directed to include details of these amounts as 
     part of the Agency's operating plan.
       Indoor Air and Radiation.--The Agency is directed to 
     continue to operate the Radon program as in fiscal year 2022. 
     Additionally, the Committees note the need to ensure access 
     to the U.S. primary radon reference and calibration program 
     by states and industry as the national benchmark for radon 
     measurement devices and encourages the Agency to support 
     efforts by states and the Centers for Disease Control to 
     collect and disseminate available radon test data.
       Information Exchange/Outreach.--Environmental Education is 
     funded at not less than $9,500,000. The Committees are 
     concerned that the smart skin cancer education program has 
     recently received insufficient attention from the Agency; 
     therefore, the Agency is directed to use Environmental 
     Education funds for the smart skin cancer education program, 
     similar to prior years.
       Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).--Of the 
     funds provided under this program area, $9,000,000 is for 
     implementation of a Federal permit program for coal 
     combustion residuals in non-participating states, as 
     authorized under section 4005(d)(2)(B) of the Solid Waste 
     Disposal Act (42 U.S.C. 6945(d)(2)(B)), or to provide 
     technical assistance to states establishing their own 
     permitting program under section 4005(d) of the Solid Waste 
     Disposal Act (42 U.S.C. 6945(d)).
       The Committees appreciate the Agency's work to develop a 
     national strategy to reduce plastic and other waste in 
     waterways and oceans. The Committees direct the Agency to 
     provide an update within 90 days of enactment of this Act on 
     the National Academy of Sciences study, funded in Public Law 
     117-103, of the costs of recycling programs to State, Tribal, 
     local and municipal governments (including recycling fees 
     paid directly by residents) and related policy 
     recommendations. The Agency is directed to follow the 
     guidance regarding improving markets for recycled materials 
     included in the joint explanatory statement accompanying 
     Public Law 117-103.
       Alaska Contaminated Sites.--The Committees recognize the 
     injustice done to Alaska Natives when in return for settling 
     their aboriginal rights to land under the Alaska Native 
     Claims Settlement Act, the Federal Government conveyed to 
     them thousands of contaminated sites which to-date largely 
     remain contaminated because of Federal inaction. This 
     enduring environmental injustice poses a significant threat 
     to human health and the environment, including to drinking 
     water sources, homes, schools, and more. The agreement 
     provides $20,000,000 for the inventory, verification, 
     assessment, and remediation of these contaminated sites, as 
     well as related community outreach and involvement. The 
     Committees recognize that neither the State of Alaska nor the 
     Agency are responsible for the contamination. The Committees 
     thank Agency leadership for its recent attention and work on 
     this issue and look forward to continuing their close working 
     relationship with the Agency in finding solutions to this 
     longstanding environmental injustice.
       Toxics Risk Review and Prevention.--The Agency is directed 
     to follow the guidance regarding the Service Fees Rule 
     included in the joint explanatory statement accompanying 
     Public Law 117-103.
       The Committees support the Safer Choice program and direct 
     that the program be funded at no lower than the enacted level 
     and operated consistent with prior years.
       Ensure Clean Water: National Estuary Program/Coastal 
     Waterways.--The agreement provides $40,000,000 for National 
     Estuary Program (NEP) grants as authorized by section 320 of 
     the Clean Water Act, and other activities. This amount is 
     sufficient to provide each of the 28 national estuaries in 
     the program with a grant of at least $850,000. Further, in 
     the Administrative Provisions section, the bill directs that 
     $2,500,000 in competitive grants be made available for 
     additional projects.
       Ensure Safe Water.--The agreement provides funding to 
     support monitoring for unregulated contaminants under Section 
     1445(a)(2)(C) of the Safe Drinking Water Act and the 
     Committees direct the Agency to brief the Committees on the 
     Agency's implementation plan within 180 days of the enactment 
     of this Act.
       The Committees encourage the swift completion of the 2022 
     Drinking Water Infrastructure Needs Survey Assessment, in 
     particular the assessment of the costs of replacing all lead 
     service lines.
       The agreement provides an additional $3,000,000 for the 
     Agency to implement the needs assessment for nationwide rural 
     and urban low-income community water assistance authorized in 
     section 50108 of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act 
     (Public Law 117-58).
       To the extent there are eligible permit and primacy 
     applications for review, the agreement provides $5,000,000 
     for the Agency's continued work within the Underground 
     Injection Control program related to Class VI wells for 
     geologic sequestration to help develop expertise and capacity 
     at the Agency. In addition, the agreement provides $1,200,000 
     to support Class VI regulator education and training programs 
     in conjunction with States, or other eligible entities such 
     as an association of States. The Committees direct the Agency 
     to brief the Committees within 120 days of enactment of this 
     Act on efforts to enhance permitting tools, public 
     engagement, and outreach and on current and anticipated Full-
     Time Employee levels within the UIC program working on Class 
     VI permitting.
       The agreement provides an increase of $5,300,000 to support 
     administration, management, and oversight of water 
     infrastructure grants.
       Ensure Clean Water.--The Agency is directed to follow the 
     guidance regarding infrastructure solutions in the joint 
     explanatory statement accompanying Public Law 117-103.
       The Committees support the Agency's ongoing activities 
     related to integrated planning, which will be increasingly 
     necessary as States and communities work to meet their myriad 
     clean water obligations while keeping rates affordable for 
     water ratepayers. The agreement provides up to $2,000,000 for 
     integrated planning activities consistent with Section 402(s) 
     of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 
     1342(s)).
       The Committees support the WaterSense program and 
     appreciate the Agency's work to advance water recycling 
     through the National Water Reuse Action Plan (WRAP). The 
     Committees note the establishment of the Water Reuse 
     Interagency Working Group in May of this year and encourage 
     the working group to analyze the public benefit of a Federal 
     investment tax incentive that will encourage and leverage 
     private investment in water reuse and recycling 
     infrastructure.
       The agreement provides an increase of $8,000,000 to support 
     administration, management, and oversight of water 
     infrastructure grants.
       Additional Guidance.--The following additional guidance is 
     included:
       Administrator Priorities.--The Agency is directed to submit 
     a report within 90 days of enactment of this Act that 
     identifies how any fiscal year 2020, 2021, and 2022 funding 
     was used, by account, program area, and program project. Each 
     activity funded should include a justification for the effort 
     and any anticipated results.
       Biointermediates.--The Committees appreciate the work of 
     the Agency to finalize the

[[Page S8658]]

     rule permitting the production, transfer, and use of 
     biointermediates. The Agency is directed to brief the 
     Committees within 90 days of enactment of this Act on its 
     implementation efforts.
       Chemical Reviews.--To help ensure that unreasonable risks 
     from chemicals are addressed in a timely manner, the 
     Committees encourage the Office of Chemical Safety and 
     Pollution Prevention to develop improved outreach and 
     guidance so that submitters understand information needs, 
     processes, and requirements prior to and during submission 
     of pre-manufacturing notices. In addition, the Committees 
     urge the Agency, as resources allow, to enhance existing 
     submitter engagement procedures to facilitate timely 
     communication and resolution of any issues that may arise 
     during the review period while continuing to protect 
     public health.
       Community Air Quality Monitoring.--The Agency is directed 
     to follow the guidance in the joint explanatory statement 
     accompanying Public Law 117-103.
       Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Program.--The 
     Committees support the work that the Agency has done to 
     improve the sustainable marketplace through the 
     Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Program, which uses 
     purchasing power to help catalyze sustainable products 
     innovation. The Committees recommend that as the Agency 
     continues to expand the Recommendations of Specifications, 
     Standards and Ecolabels for Federal Purchasing, the Agency 
     should examine ways to reduce plastic and other waste.
       Output-Based Regulations.--The Agency is directed to follow 
     the guidance included in the joint explanatory statement 
     accompanying Public Law 117-103.
       Outreach to Farm Workers.--The Committees direct the Agency 
     to extend its Spanish-language outreach program educating 
     farm-workers and pesticide handlers about improving workers 
     safety when applying pesticides in agriculture operations 
     through radio and other media. The Committees note support 
     from outside parties of the radio outreach effort as having 
     materially improved farm workers' knowledge and ability to 
     reduce exposure risks for themselves and their families, and 
     that research indicates the importance of message repetition 
     over an extended period. The Committees encourage the Agency 
     to continue its Spanish-language outreach program educating 
     farm workers and pesticide handlers about improving workers 
     safety when applying pesticides in agriculture operations 
     through media such as radio.
       Pre-Commercial Thinning.--The Agency is directed to follow 
     the guidance included in the joint explanatory statement 
     accompanying Public Law 117-103.
       Small Refinery Relief.--The Agency is directed to follow 
     the guidance in the joint explanatory statement accompanying 
     Public Law 117-103.
       Transboundary Watersheds.--The Agency is directed to follow 
     the guidance in the joint explanatory statement accompanying 
     Public Law 117-103.


                      OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL

       The bill provides $44,030,000 for the Office of Inspector 
     General. The bill transfers $11,800,000 from the Hazardous 
     Substance Superfund account to this account.
       The Committees remind the Office of Inspector General of 
     its stated core values of customer service, integrity, and 
     accountability, including a commitment to transparent 
     processes and compliance with laws, regulations, policies, 
     and sound business practices. The Committees remain concerned 
     that the Office undertook a significant reorganization 
     without prior notification to Congress as consistent with 
     past practice and required by Public Law 117-103. The Office 
     is reminded of the Committees' reprogramming rules and 
     guidelines outlined in the front matter of this report.
       The Office of Inspector General is directed to provide a 
     quarterly report that includes all activities and 
     expenditures related to its work on the Infrastructure 
     Investment and Jobs Act, including any travel or conference 
     expenditures. The report shall include a description of the 
     activity, budget authority allocated for that activity, 
     obligations, and outlays. It shall also include the number of 
     full-time equivalents assigned to each activity. The Office 
     is reminded of its duty to properly account for these funds, 
     to make sure that they are not comingled with its annual 
     appropriated dollars, and to ensure that its work returns 
     value to stakeholders, taxpayers, and others. The first 
     report is due within 90 days of enactment of this Act.


                        BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES

       The bill provides $48,752,000 for Buildings and Facilities.


                     HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCE SUPERFUND

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)

       The bill provides $1,282,700,000 for the Hazardous 
     Substance Superfund account and includes bill language to 
     transfer $11,800,000 to the Office of Inspector General 
     account and $31,607,000 to the Science and Technology 
     account. The agreement provides the following additional 
     direction:
       Research: Chemical Safety and Sustainability.--The 
     agreement provides $12,961,000 for Research: Chemical Safety 
     and Sustainability. The Agency is directed to include these 
     funds as part of the transfer to the Science and Technology 
     account.
       Research: Sustainable and Healthy Communities.--The 
     agreement provides $16,937,000 for Research: Sustainable and 
     Healthy Communities. The Agency is directed to include these 
     funds as part of the transfer to the Science and Technology 
     account.
       Superfund Cleanup.--Within available funds for Superfund 
     Remedial, the agreement includes $3,856,000 as requested to 
     replace and upgrade aging analytical equipment and modernize 
     associated IT infrastructure across regional offices and in 
     regional EPA laboratories that provide sound, legally 
     defensible scientific data to support decisions by EPA's 
     Superfund Remedial Program.
       Additional Guidance.--The following additional guidance is 
     included:
       Adaptive Management.--The Agency is directed to follow the 
     guidance regarding Adaptive Management Guidance in the joint 
     explanatory statement accompanying Public Law 117-103. The 
     Committees also encourage the Agency to create an 
     implementation plan, which aims to educate the Regions as 
     well as stakeholders regarding the proper use and consistent 
     application of the Guidance.
       Bubbly Creek, Illinois.--The Committees direct the Agency 
     to brief the Committees on what current EPA authorities and 
     programs exist to advance the restoration of urban rivers and 
     environmental justice areas that have historic contamination 
     but that do not meet the levels needed to be considered 
     Superfund sites. The Committees remain concerned about the 
     lack of progress on the restoration of the South Fork of the 
     South Branch of the Chicago River known as ``Bubbly Creek'' 
     and encourage the Agency to use its existing authorities and 
     programs to advance the project.
       Contaminants of Emerging Concern.--The Agency is directed 
     to follow the guidance in the joint explanatory statement 
     accompanying Public Law 117-103.
       Manganese.--The Agency is directed to follow the guidance 
     in the joint explanatory statement accompanying Public Law 
     117-103. The Committees encourage further community 
     engagement as EPA monitors and tests manganese contaminated 
     sites in Chicago as well as continued EPA assistance to 
     assess and safely clean up affected areas.
       Oak Ridge Reservation Cleanup.--The Committees note the 
     Agency's work and agreement with the Department of Energy and 
     State of Tennessee to remediate the legacy waste at the Oak 
     Ridge Reservation. The Committees further note the time-
     sensitive need for approval of a final Record of Decision on 
     a future CERCLA disposal facility. The Agency is encouraged 
     to execute all actions under its regulatory responsibility 
     required for a final Record of Decision approval in a timely 
     fashion.
       Polychlorinated Byphenyls (PCB) Contamination.--The Agency 
     is directed to follow the guidance in Senate Report 116-123. 
     The Committees also direct the Agency to move expeditiously 
     through the final portions of the Shaffer Equipment/Arbuckle 
     Creek site risk assessment and remedial action plans and 
     begin helping residents address this contamination as quickly 
     as possible.
       Tribal Guidance.--The Agency is directed to follow the 
     guidance in Senate Report 116-123.


          LEAKING UNDERGROUND STORAGE TANK TRUST FUND PROGRAM

       The bill provides $93,205,000 for the Leaking Underground 
     Storage Tank Trust Fund Program.
       Additional Guidance.--The following additional guidance is 
     included:
       Tribal Consultation.--The Agency is directed to follow the 
     guidance in Senate Report 116-123.


                       InLAND OIL SPILL PROGRAMS

       The bill provides $22,072,000 for Inland Oil Spill 
     Programs.


                   STATE AND TRIBAL ASSISTANCE GRANTS

                    (INCLUDING RESCISSION OF FUNDS)

       The bill provides $4,480,428,000 for the State and Tribal 
     Assistance Grants program and includes the following specific 
     funding levels and direction:
       Community Project Funding Items/Congressionally Directed 
     Spending Items.--From within funds provided for 
     capitalization grants for the Clean Water State Revolving 
     Fund and the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, the 
     Committees recommend $863,108,642 from the Clean Water SRF 
     and $609,255,899 from the Drinking Water SRF be for Community 
     Project Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending grants for 
     the construction of drinking water, waste-water, and storm-
     water infrastructure and for water quality protection. The 
     Agency is directed to follow the guidance in the joint 
     explanatory statement accompanying Public Law 117-103.
       Of the unobligated balances available prior to fiscal year 
     2012 for ``special project grants'' or ``special needs 
     infrastructure grants,'' or for the administration, 
     management, and oversight of such grants, $13,300,000 are 
     permanently rescinded.
       The Committees remind the Agency of the importance of 
     Community Project Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending 
     projects to hundreds of communities across the country. The 
     Agency should prioritize the proper oversight and execution 
     of these dollars.
       Infrastructure Assistance.--The Agency is directed to 
     follow the guidance regarding certified operators in the 
     joint explanatory statement accompanying Public Law 117-103.
       Brownfields Program.--The agreement directs the Agency to 
     follow the guidance in House Report 117-400.
       Diesel Emission Reductions Grants (DERA).--The Committees 
     support the use of DERA funding in transportation 
     electrification projects.

[[Page S8659]]

       Targeted Airshed Grants.--The Agency is directed to follow 
     the guidance in the joint explanatory statement accompanying 
     Public Law 117-103.
       Wildfire Smoke Preparedness.--The Agency is directed to 
     follow the guidance in the joint explanatory statement 
     accompanying Public Law 117-103.
       New Grant Programs.--The agreement provides $16,000,000 for 
     new infrastructure assistance grant programs including the 
     Midsize and Large Drinking Water System Infrastructure 
     Resilience and Sustainability program, the Indian Reservation 
     Drinking Water Program, Stormwater Infrastructure Technology, 
     and Enhanced Aquifer Use and Recharge. Funding is listed by 
     account in the table accompanying this explanatory statement.
       Categorical Grants.--The agreement provides $1,160,625,000 
     for Categorical Grants. Funding levels are specified in the 
     table at the end of this division.
       Categorical Grant: Resource Recovery and Hazardous Waste 
     Grants.--The bill includes a provision to spend categorical 
     grant funds for the purpose of providing grants to assist 
     States in the development and implementation of state 
     programs for the control of coal combustion residuals under 
     section 2301 of the Water and Waste Act of 2016 (Public Law 
     114-322), and the Agency is directed to allocate $4,000,000 
     from the Hazardous Waste Financial Assistance categorical 
     grants program project for this purpose. The Committees note 
     that funds awarded under the authority provided by this Act 
     are not subject to section 3011 of the Solid Waste Disposal 
     Act (Public Law 89-272).
       Categorical Grant: Public Water System Supervision.--Of the 
     funds provided, $12,000,000 is to further support States, 
     Territories, and Tribes in addressing PFAS and other 
     contaminants of emerging concern as they carry out their 
     Public Water System Supervision programs.
       Categorical Grant: State and Local Air Quality 
     Management.--The Agency is directed to allocate funds for 
     this program using the same formula as fiscal year 2015. 
     Should the Agency seek to change the formula, it should 
     submit a proposal in its fiscal year 2024 budget 
     justification for consideration by the Committees.
       Categorical Grant: Tribal General Assistance Program.--For 
     fiscal year 2023, the Agency is directed to allocate funds 
     for this program using the same formula as fiscal year 2022.
       Additional Guidance.--The following additional guidance is 
     included:
       Innovative Technologies for Water Infrastructure.--The 
     Committees are aware that capital investment in innovative 
     technologies, including but not limited to, distribution 
     network leak detection, pressure monitoring, water chemistry, 
     sanitary and combined sewer monitoring, enhanced nutrient 
     removal, and membrane treatment during upgrades to water and 
     wastewater systems, is essential to optimize water delivery 
     performance, reduce energy usage, limit water waste in 
     distribution systems, protect public health, and enhance the 
     modeling and operation of sewer collection networks and 
     wastewater treatment facilities. Such technologies will help 
     to improve operations, maintenance, and capital expenditures 
     in planning and budgeting and increase spatial and temporal 
     monitoring data available on U.S. water quality and quantity. 
     The Committees also are aware that these technologies may be 
     funded by both the Drinking Water and Clean Water State 
     Revolving Funds, as well as various other water 
     infrastructure grant programs, and may be funded separately 
     or as part of an overall project to upgrade water 
     infrastructure. As such, the Committees direct the Agency to 
     make it clear through guidance or other means that, where 
     eligible, funding may be used for such innovative 
     technologies and that the Agency encourages applicants to 
     State Revolving Fund programs to utilize technology to 
     optimize water delivery performance, reduce energy 
     consumption, and limit water waste in distribution systems.
       Use of Iron and Steel.--The bill includes language in title 
     IV general provisions that stipulates requirements for the 
     use of iron and steel in State Revolving Fund projects, and 
     the agreement includes only the following guidance: the 
     Committees acknowledge that the Agency may issue a waiver of 
     said requirements for de minimis amounts of iron and steel 
     building materials. The Committees emphasize that any coating 
     processes that are applied to the external surface of iron 
     and steel components that otherwise qualify under the 
     procurement preference shall not render such products 
     ineligible for the procurement preference regardless of where 
     the coating processes occur, provided that final assembly of 
     the products occurs in the United States.


      WATER INFRASTRUCTURE FINANCE AND INNOVATION PROGRAM ACCOUNT

       The agreement provides a total of $75,640,000 for the Water 
     Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) program.


       ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS--ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)

       The bill continues several administrative provisions from 
     previous years.
       The bill increases the cost ceiling per project to $300,000 
     for the construction, alteration, repair, rehabilitation, and 
     renovation of facilities.
       The bill directs the availability of not less than 
     $2,500,000 of funds for the National Estuary Program for 
     competitive grants.
       The bill provides for the Office of Chemical Safety and 
     Pollution Prevention and the Office of Water in fiscal year 
     2023 to use up to $2,000,000 to hire students and recent 
     graduates as contractors on a temporary or intermittent 
     basis.

                      TITLE III--RELATED AGENCIES

                       Department of Agriculture

  Office of the Under Secretary for Natural Resources And Environment

       The bill provides $1,000,000 for the Office of the Under 
     Secretary for Natural Resources and Environment.


                             FOREST SERVICE

       The agreement maintains funding for the activities 
     delineated in House Report 117-83, unless otherwise specified 
     herein, which the Service will fund with the appropriate 
     combination of salaries and expenses and programmatic funds 
     within each appropriations account.
       Sudden Oak Death.--Within funds provided, the bill provides 
     $2,000,000 for Sudden Oak Death treatments and partnerships 
     with States and private landowners.
       Transfers within Appropriations.--The Service is directed 
     to include a list of approved administrative transfers for 
     the previous fiscal year, including those made between 
     accounts affected by budget restructuring and for hazardous 
     fuels mitigation, in the annual budget submission.
       21st Century Conservation Service Corps and Job Corps.--The 
     Service is directed to continue to expand advance wildfire 
     training offerings at Job Corps Civilian Conservation Centers 
     and to brief the Committees within 90 days of enactment of 
     this Act on barriers to expanding these offerings.
       Local Hiring and Workforce.--The Service must work with 
     state workforce development offices to ensure that local 
     residents are aware of available jobs and should use 
     contracting mechanisms that focus on local hiring, such as 
     stewardship contracts, preferential treatment for businesses 
     that hire locally as authorized in this bill, and utilization 
     of graduates of Forest Service Job Corps Civilian 
     Conservation Centers. The Service must also work with the 
     Department of Labor to ensure that contractors are in 
     compliance with the law and regulations for temporary non-
     agricultural visas.
       Forest and Grassland Collaboratives.--In lieu of the House 
     direction on Forest Collaboratives, the Committees have 
     included bill language that gives the Service authority to 
     better support local organizations' capacity to collaborate 
     on projects that benefit the National Forest System and 
     provide up to $2,000,000 for these activities.
       The Service should partner with Tribes to prioritize 
     recovery on lands impacted by wildfire.


                       FOREST SERVICE OPERATIONS

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)

       The bill provides $1,152,744,000 for Forest Service 
     Operations. The detailed allocation of funding by activity is 
     included in the table accompanying this explanatory 
     statement.


                     FOREST AND RANGELAND RESEARCH

       The bill provides $307,273,000 for Forest and Rangeland 
     Research. The Committees support the current structure 
     consisting of the five regional research stations, the 
     International Institute of Tropical Forestry, and the Forest 
     Products Laboratory, and direct that each of the existing 
     facilities and programs be funded at least at the enacted 
     level. The detailed allocation of funding by activity is 
     included in the table accompanying this explanatory 
     statement.
       Funding Directives.--The agreement provides for the 
     following research priorities, for which funding of 
     geographically-based items is in addition to funds otherwise 
     provided to individual research units and therefore is not to 
     be factored into base allocations:
       --$4,500,000 to the Joint Fire Science program, which 
     combined with funding in the Department of Interior provides 
     $9,000,000 in total.
       --$2,000,000 for collaborative research to determine the 
     quantity and spatial distribution of forest biomass and 
     carbon at multiple spatial scales and analyze the financial 
     impact of this determination to provide forest carbon program 
     participants with greater opportunities for income 
     generation.
       --$3,000,000 to conduct collaborative research to determine 
     the distribution and movement of needle pathogens, understand 
     the disease cycle and the environmental factors that drive 
     the emergence and distribution of the needle pathogens, and 
     determine if the appearance is due to more aggressive strains 
     of the pathogens and the origins of the pathogens.
       --$5,000,000 to support the Northeastern States Research 
     Cooperative, a collaboration among universities in Maine, New 
     Hampshire, New York, and Vermont, sponsoring research to 
     sustain the health of northern forest ecosystems and 
     communities, develop new forest products and improve forest 
     biodiversity management. Of this amount, $4,000,000 shall be 
     provided directly to the Cooperative within 90 days of 
     enactment of this Act, and $1,000,000 shall be directed to 
     Service research projects identified as priority needs by an 
     advisory committee of community, business, and industry 
     leaders in the region. None of these funds shall be factored 
     into the base allocation of the Northern Research Station.
       --$2,000,000 for research on forest-based cellulose 
     nanomaterials, including material

[[Page S8660]]

     forms, manufacturing processes, and technology transfer.
       --$2,000,000 to support new and existing academic 
     partnerships to further explore the use of available 
     technologies like remote sensing and methodologies such as 
     small area estimation to further refine county and State 
     biomass estimates as outlined in Sec. 8632 of the Agriculture 
     Improvement Act of 2018 (Public Law 115-334).
       --$4,000,000 for cooperative research to develop new 
     understandings and innovative solutions to address wildfire 
     impacts on forested source water, downstream clean water, and 
     water treatability.
       --$3,000,000 for university-led research and partnerships 
     to better understand fires in the wildland-urban interface, 
     improve workforce development for wildfire management 
     professionals, and improve the safety and efficiency of 
     wildland firefighting techniques.
       --$1,500,000 to conduct collaborative research to develop 
     remote sensing capabilities that deploy acoustic technologies 
     for wildfire monitoring.
       --$200,000 to study the impact of reduced snowpack on the 
     Northern Waterthrush.
       --$500,000 to increase modeling work to better understand 
     the upper limit of fish distribution in the Pacific 
     Northwest.
       --$1,500,000 to continue Forest Products Laboratory 
     university partnerships to optimize biomass 
     commercialization, including lumber standards, mass timber 
     construction, and durability.


                       STATE AND PRIVATE FORESTRY

       The bill provides $337,758,000 for State and Private 
     Forestry. The detailed allocation of funding by activity is 
     included in the table accompanying this explanatory 
     statement. All funding for specific programs, directives, or 
     congressionally directed spending identified herein is in 
     addition to funds otherwise provided to States and regions 
     through the formula and competitive grant process and 
     therefore is not to be factored into those allocations.
       Cooperative Forestry.--The Committees remain concerned 
     about the high rate of tree mortality on National Forests due 
     to bark beetle infestations, which can increase the risk and 
     severity of wildfires for communities and adjacent lands. The 
     Service is directed to work with States and Tribes to 
     prioritize insect prevention, suppression, and mitigation 
     projects on non-Federal land that support community wildfire 
     protection and State forest action plans.
       Forest Ecosystem Monitoring Cooperative.--Within the funds 
     provided, $1,000,000 is for the Forest Ecosystem Monitoring 
     Cooperative to support existing academic partnerships in the 
     Northern Forest Region. A reduced non-Federal cost share 
     shall be negotiated with the host agencies to enable full 
     implementation of the program. The Committees direct the 
     Service to continue to utilize existing partnerships with 
     research institutions and States to fund research to 
     establish methods, tools, and standard protocols that help 
     quantify forest ecosystem services, particularly carbon, in 
     natural forested regions as a resource that can be managed by 
     forest landowners for ecological and economic benefit.
       Forest Resource Information and Analysis.--The bill 
     provides $30,167,000 for congressionally directed spending in 
     this program. A detailed list of projects is included in the 
     ``Interior and Environment Incorporation of Community Project 
     Funding Items/Congressionally Directed Spending Items'' table 
     accompanying this statement. In order to align with new 
     guidance related to matching requirements announced by the 
     Service on July 22, 2022, the Committees direct that no 
     match shall be required for these projects. The Committees 
     intend that this clarification, in addition to the 
     projects' funding coming from a separate line within State 
     and Private Forestry, should simplify the process for 
     recipients and the Service.


                         NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM

       The bill provides $1,974,388,000 for the National Forest 
     System. The detailed allocation of funding by activity is 
     included in the table accompanying this explanatory 
     statement.
       The Service will continue to follow the directive on 
     Tariffs on Timber Exports contained in Senate Report 116-123.
       Recreation, Heritage, and Wilderness.--Within the funds 
     provided, $1,000,000 is included to continue implementation 
     of the Native American Tourism and Improving Visitor 
     Experience [NATIVE] Act (Public Law 114-221) and $3,000,000 
     is included to support infrastructure and trails development 
     and to build the capacity of local user groups and 
     partnership organizations, to be divided equally between 
     National Recreation Areas administered by the Forest Service 
     and established after 1997.
       Grazing Management.--The bill provides $6,300,000 for 
     Grazing Management. The Service is encouraged to prioritize 
     management of active allotments that are not meeting or are 
     inconsistent with current forest plan standards or do not 
     have current assessments, and reducing the backlog of active 
     allotments requiring analysis and new management decisions 
     under the National Environmental Policy Act, according to the 
     priorities established in the Forest Service Handbook. The 
     Service is directed to brief the Committees within 90 days of 
     enactment of this Act on its progress to relieve the backlog 
     of fully processed permits. Further, the Service shall 
     evaluate the condition of permitted lands with Greater sage-
     grouse habitat and is expected to consider modifying usage to 
     assure achievement of sage-grouse habitat requirements, 
     taking into account drought, climate change, and its multiple 
     use mandate.
       Fuels Management.--The bill provides $207,000,000 for fuels 
     management activities and does not transfer the program to 
     Wildland Fire Management, as proposed in the budget. This 
     program was transferred to National Forest System in fiscal 
     year 2018 to align hazardous fuels work with other forest 
     management activities. The Committees will consider moving 
     this budget line item once the Service has provided an 
     analysis of how relocation of the program aligns with the 
     long-term workforce planning effort currently underway. Of 
     the funds made available for fuels management, $15,000,000 is 
     for the Community Wood Energy Program; $30,000,000 is for 
     Wood Innovation Grants; $6,600,000 is provided for the 
     Southwest Ecological Restoration Institutes; and no less than 
     the enacted level is to implement section 5 of the Lake Tahoe 
     Restoration Act (Public Law 106-506).
       Wildlife and Fish Habitat Management.--The bill provides 
     $24,000,000 for Wildlife and Fish Habitat Management. The 
     Service should create a system for integrating both 
     comprehensive and discrete projects to meet fish and wildlife 
     habitat conservation goals into its spending plans. 
     Consequently, the bill provides no less than an increase of 
     $2,000,000 above the enacted level of funding for threatened 
     and endangered species activities to contribute to 
     significant recovery actions. The Service is directed to 
     brief the Committees within 90 days of enactment of this Act 
     on performance indicators and other accountability measures 
     for these activities in order to track its expenditures to 
     comply with reporting requirements.


                  CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT AND MAINTENANCE

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The bill provides $158,048,000 for Capital Improvement and 
     Maintenance programs.
       The Service is directed to brief the Committees within 90 
     days of enactment of this Act on a plan to delineate between 
     new construction and the maintenance and repair of existing 
     infrastructure in future budget submissions.
       Facilities.--The bill provides $54,000,000 for Facilities. 
     The Service is directed to use an appropriate level of 
     funding for shared repository care of the National historical 
     collection.
       The Service should work with the Federal Aviation 
     Administration to update charting of airstrips located on 
     National Forest System lands for administrative, 
     recreational, and emergency purposes.
       The Service is directed to brief the Committees within 120 
     days of enactment of this Act on its plan to rebuild the 
     Ocoee Whitewater Center, including the anticipated cost and 
     timeframe.
       The Service is directed to prioritize funding available for 
     public-use cabins on maintenance, ensuring structural 
     integrity, and the general hygiene of existing cabins prior 
     to the construction of new cabins.
       Trails.--The bill includes $20,000,000 for Trails. Of the 
     funds provided, no less than an increase above enacted of 
     $500,000 for trail operation, maintenance and construction on 
     National Scenic and Historic Trails. The Service is directed 
     to develop a plan to address gaps in the Alaska Long Trail 
     between Moose Path and Portage within the Chugach National 
     Forest.
       Legacy Roads and Trails.--The bill provides $6,000,000 for 
     Legacy Roads and Trails.
       Construction Projects.--The bill provides $5,048,000 for 
     congressionally directed spending in this program. A detailed 
     list of projects is included in the ``Interior and 
     Environment Incorporation of Community Project Funding Items/
     Congressionally Directed Spending Items'' table accompanying 
     this explanatory statement.


         ACQUISITION OF LANDS FOR NATIONAL FORESTS SPECIAL ACTS

       The bill provides $664,000 for the Acquisition of Lands for 
     National Forests Special Acts.


            ACQUISITION OF LANDS TO COMPLETE LAND EXCHANGES

       The bill provides $150,000 for the Acquisition of Lands to 
     Complete Land Exchanges.


                         RANGE BETTERMENT FUND

       The bill provides $1,719,000 for the Range Betterment Fund.


    GIFTS, DONATIONS AND BEQUESTS FOR FOREST AND RANGELAND RESEARCH

       The bill provides $45,000 for Gifts, Donations and Bequests 
     for Forest and Rangeland Research.


        MANAGEMENT OF NATIONAL FOREST LANDS FOR SUBSISTENCE USES

       The bill provides $1,099,000 for the Management of National 
     Forest Lands for Subsistence Uses.


                        WILDLAND FIRE MANAGEMENT

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)

       The bill provides $945,956,000 for Forest Service Wildland 
     Fire Management. In total, the annual funding for fire 
     suppression operations at the Forest Service is 
     $3,596,000,000, including $1,386,000,000 in emergency funding 
     and $2,210,000,000 in the Wildfire Suppression Operations 
     Reserve Fund. The bill also provides an additional 
     $160,000,000 for preparedness in emergency supplemental 
     funding. The detailed allocation of funding by activity is 
     included in the table accompanying this explanatory 
     statement.

[[Page S8661]]

       Firefighter Housing.--The Service shall brief the 
     Committees within 90 days of enactment of this Act on the 
     housing needs necessary to support a permanent wildfire 
     workforce, detailing the deferred maintenance for existing 
     housing and required new housing, and highlighting any 
     current barriers such as market rate requirements and Federal 
     housing price determinations.
       Aviation Resources.--The Service is directed to develop 
     policies to implement the findings in its Aerial Firefighting 
     Use and Effectiveness study, and brief the Committees within 
     90 days of enactment of this Act on how it will spend funding 
     appropriated for Preparedness and Suppression in a manner 
     consistent with those findings.


              WILDFIRE SUPPRESSION OPERATIONS RESERVE FUND

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)

       The bill includes $2,210,000,000 for the Wildfire 
     Suppression Operations Reserve Fund, which is $90,000,000 
     above the enacted level. S. Con. Res. 14 (117th Congress), 
     the concurrent resolution on the budget for fiscal year 2022 
     and section 1(g) of H. Res. 1151 (117th Congress), as 
     engrossed in the House of Representatives on June 8, 2022, 
     included a budget cap adjustment for wildfire suppression 
     costs and this additional funding is included for fiscal year 
     2023.


                DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

                         InDIAN HEALTH SERVICE

                         InDIAN HEALTH SERVICES

                    (INCLUDING RESCISSION OF FUNDS)

       The bill provides a total of $6,958,223,000 for the Indian 
     Health Service (IHS), of which $4,890,282,000 is for the 
     Services account, and a rescission of $29,388,000 of 
     unobligated balances as detailed below. All programs, 
     projects, and activities are maintained at fiscal year 2022 
     enacted levels unless otherwise specified below. All 
     increases are general program increases unless otherwise 
     stated. The Service is expected to comply with the 
     instructions and requirements at the beginning of this 
     division and in House Report 117-400, unless otherwise 
     specified below. Language contained in the explanatory 
     statement accompanying the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 
     2022 (Public Law 117-103) regarding market-specific pay 
     scales, limitations on incentives, tracking improvements to 
     patient health, use of accreditation emergency funds, joint 
     venture solicitations, and interoperability and compatibility 
     of the new electronic health record system with the 
     Department of Veterans Affairs system, is restated, and first 
     aid kit enhancements is restated as well as language 
     contained in the Public Law 116-260, Consolidated 
     Appropriations Act 2021, regarding the dental health 
     therapist training program is also restated. Additional 
     details, instructions, and requirements follow below and in 
     the table at the end of this division.
       Advance Appropriations.--The agreement provides advance 
     appropriations for the Indian Services and Indian Health 
     Facilities accounts totaling $5,129,458,000 for fiscal year 
     2024. Additional details, instructions, and requirements 
     follow in the table at the end of this division.
       Addressing Sexual Abuse.--The Committees remain deeply 
     concerned about reports of sexual abuse at IHS operated 
     facilities. IHS is to take prompt action on any new 
     allegations, and keep the Committees apprised on 
     implementation of recommendations to prevent sexual abuse. 
     Further the Committees remind IHS of the direction contained 
     in the House bill and incorporate language included in the 
     fiscal year 2022 explanatory statement related to addressing 
     sexual abuse.
       Current Services.--The agreement includes $109,082,000 for 
     pay costs and inflation, which is based upon updated recent 
     estimates provided to the Committees. The Committees expect 
     IHS to disburse all funding provided for current services 
     upon receipt, and to consult with the Committees before 
     withholding any appropriated funds.
       Staffing for New Facilities.--The agreement includes 
     $60,384,000 for staffing newly opened health facilities, 
     which is the full amount required in fiscal year 2023 based 
     upon updated estimates provided to the Committees. Funds for 
     staffing of new facilities are limited to facilities funded 
     through the Health Care Facilities Construction Priority 
     System or the Joint Venture Construction Program that have 
     opened in fiscal year 2022 or will open in fiscal year 2023. 
     None of these funds may be allocated to a facility until such 
     facility has achieved beneficial occupancy status. As initial 
     estimates included as part of the annual budget request are 
     refined, IHS is expected to communicate updated cost 
     estimates to the Committees.
       In fiscal year 2022 the Committees provided funds for the 
     staffing of facilities scheduled to obtain beneficial 
     occupancy status. Due to unforeseen delays these facilities 
     were not able to achieve beneficial occupancy nor are they 
     expected to do so in fiscal year 2023. Consequently, these 
     previously provided funds will expire at the end of fiscal 
     year 2023. Rather than let these funds expire and go unused, 
     the Committees are required to rescind these funds and 
     provide appropriations when the facilities are scheduled to 
     achieve beneficial occupancy. The Committees expect the 
     Service to provide periodic status updates on these 
     facilities and to request the necessary staffing funds at the 
     appropriate time.
       Hospitals and Health Clinics.--The agreement provides 
     $2,503,025,000 for Hospitals and Health Clinics, which 
     includes an additional $10,000,000 for Tribal epidemiology 
     centers, $2,000,000 for village built clinics, and an 
     additional $1,000,000 to improve maternal health. This amount 
     also includes requested reallocation of prior year staffing 
     funds for the Phoenix Indian Medical Center, Cherokee Nation, 
     and United Keetoowah Band. The agreement maintains funding at 
     fiscal year 2022 enacted levels for the Alzheimer's program 
     and Produce Prescription Pilot program. The agreement also 
     continues funding at the fiscal year 2022 enacted levels for 
     the domestic violence prevention program, accreditation 
     emergencies as discussed in the House report, health 
     information technology, healthy lifestyles in youth project, 
     and the National Indian Health Board cooperative agreement.
       Village Built Clinics (VBC).--The Committees remind the 
     Service of fiscal year 2022 direction to work collaboratively 
     with impacted Tribes and Tribal organizations to produce the 
     data needed to accurately calculate the funding for VBC lease 
     funding, including the number of active VBC facilities, their 
     current funding levels, and if necessary, any additional 
     amounts needed to fully fund the eligible operating and 
     ownership costs for all VBC facilities. The Service is 
     directed to brief the Committees on the status of this 
     directive within 60 days of enactment of this Act, which 
     shall include providing a copy of the data collected to date.
       Electronic Health Records.--The agreement provides 
     $217,564,000 for Electronic Health Records (EHR), which 
     includes an increase for uses as requested. The Committees 
     expect the Service to provide detailed quarterly progress 
     updates on the obligation and expenditure of these funds as 
     well as status updates on progress of the Service's 
     modernization efforts.
       Mental Health.--The bill provides $127,171,000 for Mental 
     Health, which continues funding at fiscal year 2022 enacted 
     levels for the behavioral health integration initiative, for 
     suicide prevention, and for the Telebehavioral Health Center 
     of Excellence and includes the requested reallocation of 
     staffing funds. The Director of IHS, in coordination with the 
     Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Abuse, 
     shall award grants for providing services, provide technical 
     assistance to grantees under this section, and evaluate 
     performance of the program.
       Alcohol and Substance Abuse.--The bill provides 
     $266,440,000 for the Alcohol and Substance Abuse Programs, 
     which includes a general program increase to support existing 
     programs, including, among others, the Special Behavioral 
     Health Pilot Program that addresses behavioral health 
     challenges in Indian Country. In addition, the agreement 
     continues the Generation Indigenous, Youth Pilot project, and 
     essential detoxification services, which shall be distributed 
     as directed in Senate Report 116-123. This amount also 
     includes the requested reallocation of former National 
     Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) funds to 
     the Urban Indian Health line.
       Purchased/Referred Care.--The agreement includes 
     $996,755,000 for the Purchased/Referred Care program, which 
     includes an additional $1,000,000 funding for the Indian 
     Catastrophic Health Fund.
       Urban Indian Health.--The agreement includes $90,419,000 
     for the Urban Indian health program, which includes the 
     reallocation of former NIAAA funds.
       Indian Health Professions.--The agreement provides 
     $80,568,000 for Indian health professions, which includes an 
     additional $5,000,000 for the loan repayment program and a 
     general program funding increase to be allocated for all 
     programs, including among others, the InMed program, the 
     fourth site expansion, Quentin N. Burdick Indians into 
     Nursing, and the American Indians into Psychology Programs.
       Direct Operations.--The bill provides $103,805,000 for 
     direct operations, which includes an increase of $5,000,000 
     for quality and oversight, for uses as requested, and an 
     increase of $1,000,000 for management and operations.


                         CONTRACT SUPPORT COSTS

       The bill continues language from fiscal year 2022 providing 
     an indefinite appropriation to fully fund contract support 
     costs, which are estimated to be $969,000,000 in fiscal year 
     2023.


                       PAYMENTS FOR TRIBAL LEASES

       The bill continues language from fiscal year 2022 providing 
     an indefinite appropriation to fully fund payments for Tribal 
     leases, which are estimated to be $111,000,000 in fiscal year 
     2023.


                        InDIAN HEALTH FACILITIES

       The bill provides $958,553,000 for Indian Health 
     Facilities. All programs, projects, and activities are 
     maintained at fiscal year 2022 enacted levels unless 
     otherwise specified below. IHS is expected to comply with the 
     instructions and requirements at the beginning of this 
     division and in House Report 117-400, unless otherwise 
     specified below. Language contained in explanatory statement 
     accompanying Public Law 116-6 regarding health impacts of 
     inadequate sanitation, Mt. Edgecombe, and Alaska facility 
     assessments is restated.
       Current Services.--The agreement includes $11,324,000 for 
     pay costs and inflation, which is based upon updated 
     estimates provided to the Committees. The stipulation 
     included in ``Indian Health Services'' regarding prompt 
     distribution of funds pertains to this account as well.
       Staffing for New Facilities.--The bill includes $5,398,000 
     for staffing newly opened

[[Page S8662]]

     health facilities, which is the full amount based upon 
     updated estimates provided to the Committees. Funds for 
     staffing of new facilities are limited to facilities funded 
     through the Health Care Facilities Construction Priority 
     System or Joint Venture Construction Program that have opened 
     in FY 2022 or will open in FY 2023. Further, the stipulations 
     included in the ``Indian Health Services'' account regarding 
     the allocation of funds pertain to this account as well.
       Sanitation Facilities Construction.--The agreement provides 
     $196,167,000 for sanitation facilities construction, which 
     accounts for a transfer of $3,000,000 for certification 
     training to the Facilities and Environmental Health funding 
     line as requested in a reprogramming request by the Service. 
     The bill also includes $15,192,000 for congressionally 
     directed spending (CDS) projects as shown on the table titled 
     ``Interior and Environment Incorporation of Community Project 
     Funding Items/Congressionally Directed Spending Items'' 
     accompanying this explanatory statement. Further, the 
     Committees expect IHS to include an updated five-year spend 
     plan in fiscal year 2023 for any funds requested.
       Health Care Facilities Construction.--The agreement 
     provides $260,896,000 for health care facilities 
     construction, which includes an additional $1,000,000 for 
     quarters. The agreement continues funding at fiscal year 2022 
     enacted levels for green infrastructure as directed in the 
     explanatory statement accompanying Public Law 116-94, and 
     small ambulatory clinics, including the funds for replacement 
     and expansion projects. The agreement directs the Service to 
     report to the Committees within 90 days of enactment of this 
     Act on how these funds will be distributed as well as the 
     estimated number of quarters and associated costs for new 
     staff quarters at existing health facilities.
       Facilities and Environmental Health.--The agreement 
     provides $298,297,000 for this program, which maintains 
     $3,000,000 for preliminary engineering reports and repurposes 
     prior year staffing funds as requested. This also includes a 
     transfer from the Sanitation Facilities Construction funding 
     in order to provide technical assistance, training, and 
     guidance to sanitation operators, families, and communities 
     regarding the operation and maintenance of water supply and 
     sewage disposal facilities as outlined in a reprogramming 
     request by the Service.
       Equipment.--The bill provides $32,598,000 for equipment, 
     which continues $500,000 for TRANSAM and includes an 
     additional $1,000,000 for emergency generators, as directed 
     in House Report 117-400.

                     National Institutes of Health


          NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SCIENCES

       The agreement provides $83,035,000 for the National 
     Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. The Committees 
     continue the $2,000,000 provided in fiscal year 2022 to 
     further the Institute's work on PFAS and other contaminants 
     of emerging concern. The Institute both leads and supports 
     significant research on PFAS that will result in better 
     remediation outcomes. Further, of the funds provided, not 
     less than $1,750,000 shall be to support risk reduction for 
     Native Americans to hazardous metals mixtures from abandoned 
     uranium mine waste.

            Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry


            TOXIC SUBSTANCES AND ENVIRONMENTAL PUBLIC HEALTH

       The agreement provides $85,020,000. The Committees continue 
     the $2,000,000 provided in fiscal year 2022 to further the 
     Agency's work on PFAS and other contaminants of emerging 
     concern.
       Birth Cohort Study.--The bill provides funding for 
     continuation of the birth cohort study on the Navajo Nation. 
     The Committees support the study to better understand the 
     relationship between uranium exposures, birth outcomes, and 
     early developmental delays on the Navajo Nation.
       Pediatric Environmental Health Specialty Units.--The 
     Committees encourage the Agency to continue support for 
     Pediatric Environmental Health Specialty Units.

                         Other Related Agencies

                   Executive Office of the President


  COUNCIL ON ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY AND OFFICE OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

       The agreement provides $4,676,000 for the Council on 
     Environmental Quality and Office of Environmental Quality.

             Chemical Safety And Hazard Investigation Board


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The bill provides $14,400,000 for the Chemical Safety and 
     Hazard Investigation Board, which includes funding for the 
     docket management system as requested. The Committees urge 
     the Board to address long-standing management challenges and 
     staff vacancy issues so that it can effectively and fully 
     accomplish its critical mission. The Committees also direct 
     the Board to brief the Committees on proposed funding needs 
     and budget structure for fiscal year 2024.

              Office of Navajo and Hopi Indian Relocation


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The bill does not provide new appropriations for fiscal 
     year 2023, however, a total of $3,060,000 is made available 
     from unobligated balances for fiscal year 2023 operations. 
     The bill continues the direction provided in the explanatory 
     statement accompanying Division G of the Consolidated 
     Appropriations Act, 2017 (Public Law 115-31). There is 
     continued commitment to bringing the relocation process to an 
     orderly conclusion and ensuring all eligible relocatees 
     receive the relocation benefits to which they are entitled. 
     Consultation with all affected parties and agencies is the 
     key to a transparent, orderly closeout.

    Institute of American Indian and Alaska Native Culture and Arts 
                              Development


                        PAYMENT TO THE INSTITUTE

       The bill provides $13,482,000 for fixed costs and academic 
     programs of the Institute of American Indian Arts.

                        Smithsonian Institution


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement provides a total of $1,144,500,000 for all 
     Smithsonian Institution accounts, of which $892,855,000 is 
     provided for salaries and expenses, which includes fixed 
     costs. The agreement also includes the following program 
     increases: $600,000 for National Zoological Park animal 
     welfare; the requested program increases for the National 
     Museum of the American Latino and the Smithsonian Women's 
     History Museum; $3,000,000 to support digital transformation 
     efforts across the Institution ensuring access to the 
     Smithsonian's digital content; and $3,050,000 for the 
     Research Program Initiatives Pool, with a particular focus on 
     recycling research; $3,600,000 for IT security; and $500,000 
     for facilities security. The detailed allocation of funding 
     is included in the table at the end of this explanatory 
     statement.
       Repressed Cultures Preservation.--Global conflicts and 
     repressive regimes continue to threaten cultural and 
     linguistic heritage across the world. The bill includes 
     $500,000 in World Culture Consortium to enhance the 
     Smithsonian's work in this area, to include preservation 
     efforts as well as research, exhibitions, and education 
     programming. Within 90 days of enactment of this Act, the 
     Smithsonian is directed to brief the Committees on its plans 
     for such activities for fiscal year 2023.
       Within 90 days of enactment of this Act, the Smithsonian is 
     directed to brief the Committees on the funding it is 
     allocating to deferred maintenance and how it is addressing 
     the deferred maintenance backlog.


                           FACILITIES CAPITAL

       The agreement provides $251,645,000 for Facilities Capital. 
     The Smithsonian is directed to use planning and design 
     funding for the new museums as requested in the budget.

                        National Gallery of Art


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The bill provides $170,240,000 for the Salaries and 
     Expenses account of the National Gallery of Art, of which not 
     to exceed $3,875,000 is for the special exhibition program.


            REPAIR, RESTORATION AND RENOVATION OF BUILDINGS

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The bill provides $39,000,000 for the Repair, Restoration 
     and Renovation of Buildings account and includes funds for 
     the design and construction of an off-site art storage 
     facility in partnership with the Smithsonian Institution.

             John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts


                       OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE

       The bill provides $27,640,000 for the Operations and 
     Maintenance account.


                     CAPITAL REPAIR AND RESTORATION

       The bill provides $17,740,000 for the Capital Repair and 
     Restoration account.

            Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The bill provides $15,000,000 for the Woodrow Wilson 
     International Center for Scholars to continue the Federal 
     commitment and support operations.

           National Foundation on the Arts and the Humanities

                    National Endowment for the Arts


                       GRANTS AND ADMINISTRATION

       The bill provides $207,000,000 for the National Endowment 
     for the Arts (NEA) to continue the important work of the 
     Endowment. Changes to the enacted level are included in the 
     table at the end of this explanatory statement. The agreement 
     reiterates the direction contained in the explanatory 
     statement accompanying Public Law 117-103, Consolidated 
     Appropriations Act, 2022, regarding the Creative Forces NEA 
     Healing Arts Network, and the collaborative relationship 
     between NEA and States.

                 National Endowment for the Humanities


                       GRANTS AND ADMINISTRATION

       The bill provides $207,000,000 for the National Endowment 
     for the Humanities (NEH) to continue the important work of 
     the Endowment. Changes to the enacted level are included in 
     the table at the end of this explanatory statement. The 
     agreement reiterates the direction contained in the 
     explanatory statement accompanying Public Law 116-260, 
     Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, regarding the ``We the 
     People Initiative'', and Public Law 117-103, Consolidated 
     Appropriations Act, 2022, regarding the support for projects 
     that illustrate the transformative role of women in American 
     history.
       Endangered Languages.--The Committees support the 
     Documenting Endangered Languages Initiative and NEH's 
     partnership

[[Page S8663]]

     with the National Science Foundation [NSF] to develop and 
     advance knowledge concerning endangered human languages. The 
     Committees are especially concerned with the linguistic 
     threats faced by ethnic and religious minorities in Central 
     and East Asia, including the Uyghurs, Tibetans, and 
     Mongolians. The Committees direct the NEH to brief the 
     Committees within 90 days of the enactment of this Act on the 
     ongoing endangered languages work with emphasis on this 
     region.

                        Commission of Fine Arts


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The bill provides $3,661,000 for the Commission of Fine 
     Arts.

               National Capital Arts and Cultural Affairs

       The bill provides $5,000,000 for the National Capital Arts 
     and Cultural Affairs program. The agreement provides bill 
     language regarding eligibility for grants. Grant funds shall 
     be distributed consistent with the established formula and 
     eligibility requirements used in fiscal year 2022.

               Advisory Council on Historic Preservation


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The bill provides $8,585,000 for the Advisory Council on 
     Historic Preservation.

                  National Capital Planning Commission


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The bill provides $8,750,000 for the National Capital 
     Planning Commission, including funding for lease costs.

                United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

                       Holocaust Memorial Museum

       The bill provides $65,231,000 for the United States 
     Holocaust Memorial Museum.

                             Presidio Trust

       The bill provides $90,000,000 in loan authority for the 
     Presidio Trust and increases the limit for the aggregate 
     amount of outstanding obligations to $250,000,000.

                   World War I Centennial Commission


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The bill provides $1,000,000 for the Salaries and Expenses 
     account of the World War I Centennial Commission.

              United States Semiquincentennial Commission


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The bill provides $15,000,000 for the necessary expenses of 
     the United States Semiquincentennial Commission.

  Alyce Spotted Bear and Walter Soboleff Commission on Native Children

       The bill provides $550,000 for necessary expenses of the 
     Commission. The Commission is directed to conduct a 
     comprehensive study of Federal, State, local, and Tribal 
     programs that serve Native children.

                      TITLE IV--GENERAL PROVISIONS


                     (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)

       The bill includes various legislative provisions in Title 
     IV of the bill. The provisions are:
       Section 401 continues a provision providing that 
     appropriations available in the bill shall not be used to 
     produce literature or otherwise promote public support of a 
     legislative proposal on which legislative action is not 
     complete.
       Section 402 continues a provision providing for annual 
     appropriations unless expressly provided otherwise in this 
     Act.
       Section 403 continues a provision providing restrictions on 
     departmental assessments unless approved by the Committees on 
     Appropriations.
       Section 404 continues a limitation on accepting and 
     processing applications for patents and on the patenting of 
     Federal lands.
       Section 405 continues a provision regarding the payment of 
     contract support costs.
       Section 406 addresses the payment of contract support costs 
     for fiscal year 2023.
       Section 407 continues a provision providing that the 
     Secretary of Agriculture shall not be considered in violation 
     of certain provisions of the Forest and Rangeland Renewable 
     Resources Planning Act solely because more than 15 years have 
     passed without revision of a forest plan, provided that the 
     Secretary is working in good faith to complete the plan 
     revision.
       Section 408 continues a provision limiting preleasing, 
     leasing, and related activities within the boundaries of 
     National Monuments.
       Section 409 restricts funding appropriated for acquisition 
     of land or interests in land from being used for declarations 
     of taking or complaints in condemnation.
       Section 410 continues a provision which prohibits no-bid 
     contracts.
       Section 411 continues a provision which requires public 
     disclosure of certain reports.
       Section 412 continues a provision which delineates the 
     grant guidelines for the National Endowment for the Arts.
       Section 413 continues a provision which delineates the 
     program priorities for the programs managed by the National 
     Endowment for the Arts.
       Section 414 requires the Department of the Interior, 
     Environmental Protection Agency, Forest Service and Indian 
     Health Service to provide the Committees on Appropriations 
     quarterly reports on the status of balances of 
     appropriations.
       Section 415 extends certain authorities allowing the Forest 
     Service to renew grazing permits.
       Section 416 prohibits the use of funds to maintain or 
     establish a computer network unless such network is designed 
     to block access to pornography websites.
       Section 417 addresses the humane transfer and treatment of 
     excess wild horses and burros.
       Section 418 extends the authority of the Forest Service 
     Facility Realignment and Enhancement Act.
       Section 419 sets requirements for the use of American iron 
     and steel for certain loans and grants.
       Section 420 provides authority for the Secretary of the 
     Interior to enter into training agreements and to transfer 
     excess equipment and supplies for wildfires.
       Section 421 provides a one-year extension of the Federal 
     Lands Recreation Enhancement Act.
       Section 422 incorporates Reprogramming Guidelines into the 
     Act.
       Section 423 continues a provision authorizing the Secretary 
     of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture to consider 
     local contractors when awarding contracts for certain 
     activities on public lands.
       Section 424 extends the authority for the Shasta-Trinity 
     Marina fee for one year.
       Section 425 extends the authority for the Interpretive 
     Association for one year.
       Section 426 extends the authority for Puerto Rico Schooling 
     for one year.
       Section 427 extends the authority for Forest Botanical 
     Products fee collection for one year.
       Section 428 includes certain limitations on oil and gas 
     development near Chaco Culture National Historical Park.
       Section 429 requires 105(l) Tribal lease payments to begin 
     no earlier than the date the lease proposal is submitted and 
     for the Federal agencies to consult with Tribes on lease 
     requirements.
       Section 430 extends the authority for the Forest Ecosystem 
     Health and Recovery Fund by one year.
       Section 431 requires the allocation of funds from the 
     National Parks and Public Land Legacy Restoration Fund and 
     Land and Water Conservation Fund.
       Section 432 addresses carbon emissions from forest biomass.
       Section 433 addresses the use of small remote incinerators 
     in the State of Alaska.
       Section 434 addresses timber sales involving Alaska western 
     red and yellow cedar.
       Section 435 provides transfer authority to the Federal 
     Highway Administration for the National Parks and Public Land 
     Legacy Restoration Fund.
       Section 436 continues a provision prohibiting the use of 
     funds to promulgate or implement any regulation requiring the 
     issuance of permits under Title V of the Clean Air Act for 
     carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, water vapor, or methane 
     emissions.
       Section 437 continues a provision prohibiting the use of 
     funds to implement any provision in a rule if that provision 
     requires mandatory reporting of greenhouse gas emissions from 
     manure management systems.
       Section 438 continues a provision prohibiting the use of 
     funds to regulate the lead content of ammunition or fishing 
     tackle.
       Section 439 makes road construction more inclusive.
       Section 440 provides for wildland firefighter pay cap 
     waiver.
       Section 441 establishes an interest bearing account.
       Section 442 provides a technical correction to a fiscal 
     year 2022 project.
       Section 443 provides an emergency designation to the 
     Hazardous Substance Superfund account.
       Section 444 allows easement or right-of-way permits over 
     certain Federal lands.
       Section 445 extends authorization for Alaska Native 
     regional health entities.

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          ALLOCATION OF FUNDS: NATIONAL PARKS AND PUBLIC LAND LEGACY RESTORATION FUND FISCAL YEAR 2023
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                State(s)                    Station or Unit Name             Project             Funding Amount
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                            BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AK.....................................  Anchorage District.......  Glennallen Warehouse               4,706,000
                                                                     Consolidation.
AZ.....................................  Gila District............  Hot Well Dunes Facilities          5,180,000
                                                                     and Site Repairs.
CA.....................................  California Desert          Cahuilla Ranger Station            8,225,000
                                          District.                  Replacement.
CO.....................................  Grand Junction Air Center  Grand Junction Air Center          3,470,000
                                                                     Tanker Base Repairs
                                                                     (Phase II).
ID.....................................  Coeur d'Alene District,    Idaho Recreation Site              6,377,000
                                          Idaho Falls District,      Repairs.
                                          and Twin Falls District.
ID.....................................  National Interagency Fire  Airfield Ramp Tarmac               2,500,000
                                          Center.                    Replacement.
MT.....................................  Eastern Montana Dakotas    Recreation, Roads, Dams,           7,681,000
                                          District, North Central    and Building Repair
                                          District, Western          Project.
                                          Montana District.
NM.....................................  Farmington District......  Wild Rivers Back Country           4,851,000
                                                                     Byway Repairs (Phase II).
NV.....................................  Elko District............  Elko District Office              12,830,000
                                                                     Building Replacement and
                                                                     Repairs.
OR.....................................  Northwest Oregon District  Yaquina Head Outstanding           9,582,000
                                                                     Natural Area Site
                                                                     Maintenance.
OR.....................................  Vale District............  Vale District Building             4,557,000
                                                                     Renovation.
UT.....................................  West Desert District.....  Little Sahara Recreation           6,057,000
                                                                     Area Maintenance (Phases
                                                                     II and III).
VA.....................................  Northeastern States        Meadowood Repairs........            400,000
                                          District.
WY.....................................  High Desert District,      Wyoming Safety of Dams             5,263,000
                                          Wind River/Bighorn Basin   Repairs and Maintenance
                                          District, and High         (Phase II).
                                          Planes District.
                                         Program Administration     .........................          2,850,000
                                          (Indirect Costs).
                                         Contingency Fund.........  .........................         10,662,093
                                         Sequestration, 2023......  .........................        (5,415,000)
                                         Previously Sequestered
                                          Budget Authority, 2022.
                                         .........................  5,415,000................
                                         TOTAL, BUREAU OF LAND      .........................         95,191,093
                                          MANAGEMENT PROJECTS.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                         U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AL.....................................  Bon Secour National        Replace Headquarters               1,918,904
                                          Wildlife Refuge.           Office and Maintenance
                                                                     Building.
AL.....................................  Wheeler National Wildlife  Replace Compound                   1,769,260
                                          Refuge.                    Maintenance Shop.
AZ.....................................  Buenos Aires National      Consolidate and Modernize         14,760,000
                                          Wildlife Refuge.           Public Use Facilities
                                                                     and Improve Recreational
                                                                     Access (Phase I).
CA.....................................  San Luis National          Modernize Infrastructure           2,250,000
                                          Wildlife Refuge Complex.   to Improve Waterfowl
                                                                     Hunting Areas and
                                                                     Improve Recreational
                                                                     Access (Phase II).
CA.....................................  San Luis National          Repair Water Management            5,400,000
                                          Wildlife Refuge Complex.   and Public Outdoor
                                                                     Recreation
                                                                     Infrastructure (Phase
                                                                     III).
GA.....................................  Okefenokee National        Replace Administrative             1,800,000
                                          Wildlife Refuge.           and Visitor Center.
IA.....................................  Upper Mississippi          Replacement, Repair, and          10,620,000
                                          National Wildlife and      Consolidation of
                                          Fish Refuge.               McGregor District
                                                                     Headquarters and
                                                                     Facilities.
LA.....................................  Red River National         Replacement of the                   900,000
                                          Wildlife Refuge.           Primary Boardwalk and
                                                                     Trail Bridge.
LA.....................................  Southeast Louisiana        Replacement of the Public          1,556,000
                                          Refuges.                   Use Facilities and
                                                                     Critical Infrastructure.
MQ.....................................  Midway Atoll National      Replace Waste Treatment            7,380,000
                                          Wildlife Refuge.           Plant.
OK.....................................  Wichita Mountains          Consolidate and Modernize          3,635,000
                                          Wildlife Refuge.           Public Use Facilities
                                                                     and Improve Recreational
                                                                     Access (Phase II).
PR.....................................  Cabo Rojo National         Replace Cabo Rojo                  3,763,000
                                          Wildlife Refuge.           Headquarters/Visitor
                                                                     Center Building.
UT.....................................  Bear River Migratory Bird  Rehabilitation of Water           15,472,240
                                          Refuge.                    Management
                                                                     Infrastructure.
VT.....................................  Missisquoi National        Rehabilitation of the                 81,000
                                          Wildlife Refuge.           Multipurpose
                                                                     Administration and
                                                                     Visitor Facility.
VT.....................................  Silvio O. Conte National   Rehabilitation of                    900,000
                                          Fish and Wildlife          Infrastructure and
                                          Refuge--Nulhegan Basin     Public Use Facilities.
                                          Division.
WV.....................................  Canaan Valley National     Rehabilitation of the                150,000
                                          Wildlife Refuge.           Schaeffer Building.
WV.....................................  Ohio River Islands         Rehabilitation of the                100,000
                                          National Wildlife Refuge.  Multipurpose
                                                                     Headquarters Building.
Mult...................................  National Wildlife Refuges  Salary Funding for                 4,253,596
                                                                     National Maintenance
                                                                     Action Team Strike
                                                                     Forces (Year 3).
Mult...................................  National Wildlife Refuges  Salary Funding for                 2,000,000
                                                                     Supplemental
                                                                     Conservation Workforce
                                                                     (Year 2).
                                         Program Administration     .........................          2,850,000
                                          (Indirect Costs).
                                         Contingency Fund.........  .........................         13,632,093
                                         Sequestration, 2023......  .........................        (5,415,000)
                                         Previously Sequestered     .........................          5,415,000
                                          Budget Authority, 2022.
                                         TOTAL, U.S. FISH AND       .........................         95,191,093
                                          WILDLIFE SERVICE
                                          PROJECTS.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                              NATIONAL PARK SERVICE
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AL.....................................  Freedom Riders National    Rehabilitate Civil Rights-         7,451,000
                                          Monument, Birmingham       Related Structures,
                                          Civil Rights National      Including the Greyhound
                                          Monument.                  Bus Depot, Mural
                                                                     Building, and Interior
                                                                     of A.G. Gaston Motel.
AR.....................................  Hot Springs National Park  Rehabilitate Historic             16,729,000
                                                                     Bathhouses.
AZ.....................................  Petrified Forest National  Rehabilitate Painted              33,327,000
                                          Park.                      Desert Community Complex.
AZ, UT.................................  Glen Canyon National       Rehabilitate Critical             72,489,000
                                          Recreation Area.           Utility Systems.
CA.....................................  Golden Gate National       Stabilize and                     63,584,000
                                          Recreation Area.           Rehabilitate Alcatraz
                                                                     Island Historic
                                                                     Structures.
CA.....................................  San Francisco Maritime     Rehabilitate Hyde Street         102,282,000
                                          National Historical Park.  Pier and the National
                                                                     Historic Landmark Eureka
                                                                     Ferryboat.
DC.....................................  National Mall and          Rehabilitate Seawalls and        124,292,000
                                          Memorial Parks.            Shoreline Landscape
                                                                     (Phase I).
FL.....................................  Everglades National Park.  Rehabilitate Parkwide             36,916,000
                                                                     Water and Wastewater
                                                                     Systems.
GA.....................................  Chickamauga and            Repair, Rehabilitation,            5,666,000
                                          Chattanooga National       and Reconstruction of
                                          Military Park.             Roads and Parking.
HI.....................................  Haleakala National Park,   Rehabilitate Perimeter            30,539,000
                                          Hawaii Volcanoes           Fences to Protect Park
                                          National Park, Kalaupapa   Resources.
                                          National Historical Park.
ID.....................................  Craters of the Moon        Rehabilitate Operational           9,932,000
                                          National Monument and      Buildings at Idaho Parks.
                                          Preserve, Hagerman
                                          Fossil Beds National
                                          Monument, Minidoka
                                          National Historic Site.
IN.....................................  Indiana Dunes National     Rehabilitate Historic             14,812,000
                                          Park.                      Structures.
MA.....................................  Boston National            Rehabilitate Building 107         36,628,000
                                          Historical Park.           and Demolish Hoosac
                                                                     Stores Warehouse
                                                                     Building (Phase I).
MD.....................................  Clara Barton National      Rehabilitate the Clara            14,982,000
                                          Historic Site.             Barton National Historic
                                                                     Site.
MI.....................................  Pictured Rocks National    Complete Pavement                  6,625,000
                                          Lakeshore, Sleeping Bear   Rehabilitation on High-
                                          Dunes National Lakeshore.  Priority NPS Roads in
                                                                     Michigan.
MO.....................................  George Washington Carver   Complete Pavement                 15,156,000
                                          National Monument, Ozark   Rehabilitation on High-
                                          National Scenic            Priority NPS Roads in
                                          Riverways, Wilson's        Missouri.
                                          Creek National
                                          Battlefield.
MO.....................................  Ozark National Scenic      Project Planning and                 400,000
                                          Riverways, Alley Springs   Compliance.
                                          Campground.
MS.....................................  Natchez Trace Parkway....  Rehabilitate Sections of          46,212,000
                                                                     the Natchez Trace
                                                                     Parkway (Phase II).
NJ.....................................  Delaware Water Gap         Rehabilitate and Repair           16,869,000
                                          National Recreation Area.  Critical Sections of Old
                                                                     Mine Road.
NV.....................................  Great Basin National Park  Rehabilitate Deteriorated          4,504,000
                                                                     Wastewater Collection
                                                                     and Water Distribution
                                                                     Systems.
NY.....................................  Gateway National           Rehabilitate Deteriorated         34,150,000
                                          Recreation Area.           and Failing Mission-
                                                                     Critical Utility System
                                                                     Infrastructure (Phase I).
PA.....................................  Independence National      Rehabilitate the Interior         30,163,000
                                          Historical Park.           and Exterior of First
                                                                     Bank.
WV.....................................  New River Gorge National   Remove Excess Structures           1,237,000
                                          Park and Preserve.         and Abandoned Buildings
                                                                     Parkwide and Address
                                                                     Utility Needs (Phase I).
WY.....................................  Yellowstone National Park  Rehabilitate Old Faithful         33,630,000
                                                                     Wastewater Collection
                                                                     and Treatment System.
Mult...................................  Preservation Maintenance   .........................         20,000,000
                                          Action Teams at Multiple
                                          Parks.
                                         2024+ Project Planning     .........................        224,600,000
                                          and Compliance.
                                         Program Administration     .........................         39,900,000
                                          (Indirect Costs).
                                         Project Management.......  .........................         46,816,000
                                         Contingency Fund.........  .........................        242,783,268
                                         Sequestration, 2023......  .........................       (75,810,000)
                                         Previously Sequestered     .........................         75,810,000
                                          Budget Authority, 2022.
                                         TOTAL, NATIONAL PARK       .........................      1,332,674,268
                                          SERVICE PROJECTS.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                           BUREAU OF INDIAN EDUCATION
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AZ.....................................  Shonto Preparatory School  Shonto Preparatory School         11,636,000
                                                                     Employee Housing New
                                                                     (Replacement) or
                                                                     Improvement Repair.
AZ.....................................  Shonto Preparatory School  Shonto Preparatory School         60,482,000
                                                                     Replacement.
SD.....................................  Wounded Knee District      Wounded Knee District             10,500,000
                                          School.                    Employee Housing New
                                                                     (Replacement) or
                                                                     Improvement Repair.
                                         Program Administration     .........................          2,850,000
                                          (Indirect Costs).
                                         Contingency Fund.........  .........................          9,723,093
                                         Sequestration, 2023......  .........................        (5,415,000)
                                         Previously Sequestered     .........................          5,415,000
                                          Budget Authority, 2022.
                                         TOTAL, BUREAU OF INDIAN    .........................         95,191,093
                                          EDUCATION PROJECTS.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                               U.S. FOREST SERVICE
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mult...................................  Research and Development   Research and Development          12,686,500
                                          Stations.                  Deferred Maintenance.
MT.....................................  Beaverhead-Deerlodge       Beaverhead-Deerlodge               2,291,000
                                          National Forest.           National Forest Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.

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ID, MT.................................  Bitterroot National        Bitterroot National                1,105,000
                                          Forest.                    Forest Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
MT.....................................  Custer Gallatin National   Custer Gallation National          4,380,300
                                          Forest.                    Forest Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
ND, SD.................................  Dakota Prairie Grasslands  Dakota Prairie Grasslands            374,000
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
MT.....................................  Flathead National Forest.  Flathead National Forest           2,208,800
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
MT.....................................  Helena-Lewis and Clark     Helena-Lewis and Clark             5,020,000
                                          National Forest.           National Forest Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
ID.....................................  Idaho Panhandle National   Idaho Panhandle National           6,369,000
                                          Forests.                   Forests Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
MT.....................................  Kootenai National Forest.  Kootenai National Forest             584,000
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
MT.....................................  Lolo National Forest.....  Lolo National Forest               2,255,000
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
ID.....................................  Nez Perce-Clearwater       Nez Perce-Clearwater               4,215,100
                                          National Forests.          National Forests
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
CO.....................................  Arapaho and Roosevelt      Arapaho and Roosevelt              4,099,300
                                          National Forests and       National Forests and
                                          Pawnee National            Pawnee National
                                          Grassland.                 Grassland Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
WY.....................................  Bighorn National Forest..  Bighorn National Forest            3,612,100
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
SD.....................................  Black Hills National       Black Hills National               2,505,400
                                          Forest.                    Forest Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
CO.....................................  Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre,   Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre,           3,895,800
                                          and Gunnison National      and Gunnison National
                                          Forests.                   Forest Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
CO.....................................  Medicine Bow-Routt         Medicine Bow-Routt                   922,500
                                          National Forest.           National Forest Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
CO.....................................  Pike-San Isabel National   Pike-San Isabel National           1,017,000
                                          Forests and Cimarron and   Forests and Cimarron and
                                          Comanche National          Comanche National
                                          Grasslands.                Grasslands Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
CO.....................................  Rio Grande National        Rio Grande National                  413,000
                                          Forest.                    Forest Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
WY.....................................  Shoshone National Forest.  Shoshone First Forest and            729,000
                                                                     Facility Maintenance.
CO.....................................  White River National       White River National               7,088,000
                                          Forest.                    Forest Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
AZ.....................................  Apache-Sitgreaves          Forest-Wide Developed                650,000
                                          National Forests.          Recreation Site
                                                                     Renovation.
NM.....................................  Carson National Forest...  Carson National Forest             2,798,600
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
NM.....................................  Cibola National Forest...  Sandia Crest Recreation            1,601,500
                                                                     Complex Design and
                                                                     Construction.
AZ.....................................  Coconino National Forest.  Coconino National Forest             870,000
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
AZ.....................................  Coronado National Forest.  Coronado National Forest           2,473,000
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
NM.....................................  Gila National Forest.....  Gila National Forest               5,640,000
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
AZ.....................................  Kaibab National Forest...  Road 307 and Road 310                578,000
                                                                     Improvements and Parking
                                                                     Lot Reconstruction.
NM.....................................  Lincoln National Forest..  Cedar Creek Trail Access             175,000
                                                                     Capital Improvement.
AZ.....................................  Prescott National Forest.  Trails Deferred                      225,000
                                                                     Maintenance.
NM.....................................  Santa Fe National Forest.  Santa Fe National Forest           8,193,000
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
AZ.....................................  Southwestern Region......  Arizona National Scenic              360,000
                                                                     Trail (AZT) Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
AZ.....................................  Tonto National Forest....  Retrofitting Four                    418,500
                                                                     Composting toilets to
                                                                     Vault toilets.
UT, WY.................................  Ashley National Forest...  Ashley National Forest             1,743,000
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
ID.....................................  Boise National Forest....  Boise National Forest                909,000
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
WY.....................................  Bridger-Teton National     Bridger-Teton National               788,000
                                          Forest.                    Forest Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
ID, WY.................................  Caribou-Targhee National   Caribou-Targhee National           2,082,000
                                          Forest.                    Forest Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
UT.....................................  Dixie National Forest....  Duck Creek Campground              1,728,500
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance
                                                                     Reduction.
UT.....................................  Fishlake National Forest.  Fishlake National Forest           4,171,200
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
CA, NV.................................  Humboldt-Toiyabe National  Humboldt-Toiyabe National            981,500
                                          Forest.                    Forest Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
UT.....................................  Manti-La Sal National      Manti-La Sal National              1,123,500
                                          Forest.                    Forest Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
ID.....................................  Payette National Forest..  Payette National Forest            1,574,000
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
ID.....................................  Salmon-Challis National    Salmon-Challis National            1,169,300
                                          Forest.                    Forest Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
ID.....................................  Sawtooth National Forest.  Sawtooth National Forest           1,273,800
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
UT.....................................  Uinta-Wasatch-Cache        Uinta-Wasatch-Cache                5,010,300
                                          National Forest.           National Forest Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
CA.....................................  Angeles National Forest..  Angeles National Forest            1,750,000
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
CA.....................................  Eldorado National Forest.  Eldorado National Forest           3,570,000
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
CA.....................................  Inyo National Forest.....  Inyo National Forest              13,840,300
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
CA.....................................  Lake Tahoe Basin           Bayview Parking Lot                  400,000
                                          Management Unit.           Upgrades.
CA.....................................  Lassen National Forest...  Recreation Deferred                  555,600
                                                                     Maintenance.
CA.....................................  Mendocino National Forest  Critical Forest-Wide Roof            122,000
                                                                     Replacement.
CA.....................................  Modoc National Forest....  Blue Lake Recreation               2,550,000
                                                                     Improvements.
CA.....................................  Plumas National Forest...  Plumas National Forest               531,000
                                                                     Fire Detection and
                                                                     Recreation Lookouts
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance
                                                                     Upgrades.
CA.....................................  San Bernardino National    San Bernardino National              270,000
                                          Forest.                    Forest Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
CA.....................................  Sierra National Forest...  Sierra National Forest             8,619,300
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
CA.....................................  Tahoe National Forest....  Tahoe Public Service               1,400,000
                                                                     Center and Hotshot
                                                                     Facilities Modernization.
WA.....................................  Columbia River Gorge       Columbia River Gorge               1,066,700
                                          National Scenic Area.      National Scenic Area
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
WA.....................................  Colville National Forest.  Colville National Forest           1,705,000
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
OR.....................................  Deschutes National Forest  Forest-Wide Trail Bridge             130,000
                                                                     Reconstruction.
OR.....................................  Fremont-Winema National    Oregon Timber Trail                  150,000
                                          Forest.                    Access Improvements
                                                                     Recreation.
WA.....................................  Gifford Pinchot National   Gifford Pinchot National           2,775,000
                                          Forest.                    Forest Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
WA.....................................  Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie       Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie               3,835,000
                                          National Forest.           National Forest Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
OR.....................................  Mt. Hood National Forest.  Timberline Lodge Boiler            7,000,000
                                                                     System Replacement.
OR.....................................  Ochoco National Forest...  Ochoco National Forest             3,425,500
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
WA.....................................  Okanogan-Wenatchee         Okanogan-Wenatchee                 1,810,000
                                          National Forest.           National Forest Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
OR, WA.................................  Pacific Northwest Region.  Pacific Northwest Region-          1,300,000
                                                                     Wide Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
OR.....................................  Rogue River-Siskiyou       Quosatana Campground                 175,000
                                          National Forest.           Septic Replacements.
OR.....................................  Siuslaw National Forest..  Vssitor Center and Roof              400,000
                                                                     Replacements.
OR.....................................  Umatilla National Forest.  Blue Mountain Scenic                 500,000
                                                                     Byway Chip Seal.
OR.....................................  Umpqua National Forest...  Umpqua National Forest             2,310,000
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
OR.....................................  Wallowa-Whitman National   Wallowa-Whitman National           1,800,000
                                          Forest.                    Forest Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
OR.....................................  Willamette National        Willamette National                1,670,000
                                          Forest.                    Forest Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
TN.....................................  Cherokee National Forest.  Cherokee National Forest           9,595,700
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
SC.....................................  Francis Marion-Sumter      Palmetto Trail Enoree                 70,000
                                          National Forests.          Passage Rehabilitation.
VA.....................................  George Washington and      George Washington-                 3,936,700
                                          Jefferson National         Jefferson National
                                          Forests.                   Forests Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
AL.....................................  National Forests in        National Forests in                2,065,700
                                          Alabama.                   Alabama Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
FL.....................................  National Forests in        National Forests in                2,070,000
                                          Florida.                   Florida Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
MS.....................................  National Forests in        Turkey Fork Recreation               450,000
                                          Mississippi.               Area Boat Launch
                                                                     Resurfacing.
NC.....................................  National Forests in North  National Forests in North          3,781,300
                                          Carolina.                  Carolina Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
AR.....................................  Ouachita National Forest.  Shady Lake Recreation              1,300,000
                                                                     Site Day Use Renovation.
AR.....................................  Ozark-St. Francis          Ozark-St Francis National          7,181,900
                                          National Forests.          Forest Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
PA.....................................  Allegheny National Forest  Allegheny National Forest          6,849,300
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
WI.....................................  Chequamegon-Nicolet        Chequamegon-Nicolet                1,603,000
                                          National Forest.           National Forest Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
MN.....................................  Chippewa National Forest.  Chippewa National Forest             638,700
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
NY, VT.................................  Green Mountain and Finger  Green Mountain and Finger            661,200
                                          Lakes National Forests.    Lakes National Forest
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
MI.....................................  Hiawatha National Forest.  Hiawatha National Forest             990,900
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
IN.....................................  Hoosier National Forest..  Hoosier National Forest              866,000
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
MI.....................................  Huron-Manistee National    Huron-Manistee National            2,075,000
                                          Forests.                   Forest Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
MO.....................................  Mark Twain National        Mark Twain National                1,650,200
                                          Forest.                    Forest Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
WV.....................................  Monongahela National       Monongahela National               1,092,000
                                          Forest.                    Forest Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
MI.....................................  Ottawa National Forest...  Ottawa National Forest             1,115,000
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
IL.....................................  Shawnee National Forest..  Shawnee National Forest            2,500,000
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
MN.....................................  Superior National Forest.  Superior National Forest           2,420,000
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
OH.....................................  Wayne National Forest....  Wayne National Forest                855,300
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
NH.....................................  White Mountain National    White Mountain National              967,900
                                          Forest.                    Forest Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
AK.....................................  Chugach National Forest..  Chugach National Forest            2,085,000
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
AK.....................................  Tongass National Forest..  Tongass National Forest           14,398,000
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
                                         Administrative Funds.....  .........................         21,568,300
                                         Contingency Fund.........  .........................         16,788,142
                                         Sequestration, 2023......  .........................       (16,245,000)
                                         Previously Sequestered     .........................         16,247,749
                                          Budget Authority, 2022.
                                         TOTAL, U.S. FOREST         .........................        285,545,891
                                          SERVICE PROJECTS.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
     ALLOCATION OF FUNDS: NATIONAL PARKS AND PUBLIC LAND LEGACY RESTORATION FUND FISCAL YEAR 2022 REVISIONS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                         U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DE.....................................  Coastal Delaware NWR       Eliminate DM Backlog at            5,480,000
                                          Complex.                   Prime Hook NWR and
                                                                     Bombay Hook NWR.
Mult...................................  MAT Strikeforce..........  National Maintenance               2,000,000
                                                                     Action Team, Year 2.
NY.....................................  Montezuma NWR............  Consolidate and Modernize          7,071,000
                                                                     Public Use Facilities
                                                                     and Improve Recreational
                                                                     Access.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                              NATIONAL PARK SERVICE
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CA.....................................  Yosemite National Park...  Ahwahnee Hotel and                34,213,059
                                                                     Correct Critical Safety
                                                                     Hazards (Rescoped).

[[Page S8718]]

 
NC.....................................  Blue Ridge Parkway.......  Rehabilitate Sections of          26,789,000
                                                                     Blue Ridge Parkway in
                                                                     North Carolina
                                                                     (Rescoped).
VA.....................................  Blue Ridge Parkway.......  Rehabilitate Sections of          32,834,000
                                                                     Blue Ridge Parkway in
                                                                     Virginia (Rescoped).
WY.....................................  Yellowstone National Park  Rehabilitate/Replace              52,588,000
                                                                     Canyon & Grant Village
                                                                     Wastewater Collection
                                                                     and Treatment Systems
                                                                     (Rescoped).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                               U.S. FOREST SERVICE
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CA.....................................  Mendocino National Forest  Mendocino National Forest            250,000
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
CA.....................................  Plumas National Forest...  Plumas National Forest               436,000
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
CA.....................................  Cleveland National Forest  Cleveland National Forest          1,420,000
                                                                     Deferred Maintenance.
MO.....................................  Mark Twain National        Mark Twain National                1,694,000
                                          Forest.                    Forest Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
MO.....................................  Ottawa National Forest...  South Branch Paint River           1,030,000
                                                                     Bridge Replacement for
                                                                     Timber Access and
                                                                     Recreation.
WV.....................................  Monongahela National       Monongahela National               7,364,370
                                          Forest.                    Forest Deferred
                                                                     Maintenance.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
     ALLOCATION OF FUNDS: NATIONAL PARKS AND PUBLIC LAND LEGACY RESTORATION FUND FISCAL YEAR 2021 REVISIONS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                            BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CO.....................................  Grand Junction Air Center  Grand Junction Air Center            172,967
                                                                     Repair Containment Pond.
MT.....................................  Western Montana District.  Moose Creek Road                     450,000
                                                                     Resurfacing.
NM.....................................  Las Cruces District......  Caballo-Cooke's Road                 103,430
                                                                     Repairs.
NM.....................................  Las Cruces District......  Permian Trackways Road               199,999
                                                                     Repairs.
WY.....................................  High Plains District.....  Mills Ware Yard Paving...            299,983
                                         Contingency Fund.........  .........................            349,821
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                              NATIONAL PARK SERVICE
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AZ.....................................  Grand Canyon National      Rehabilitate and Preserve                  0
                                          Park.                      Historic Powerhouse
                                                                     Building for Future Use.
NC.....................................  Blue Ridge Parkway.......  Blue Ridge Parkway               123,500,000
                                                                     Reconstruction (NC)
                                                                     (Rescoped).
WA.....................................  Mount Rainier National     Rehabilitate Ohanapecosh           2,886,000
                                          Park.                      Campground and Replace
                                                                     Sewer Collection System
                                                                     (Rescoped).
                                         Contingency Fund.........  .........................         20,223,010
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                           BUREAU OF INDIAN EDUCATION
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AZ, NM.................................  Navajo Region............  Navajo--Education                  7,112,000
                                                                     Demolition Project C
                                                                     (Rescoped).
ND, SD.................................  Great Plains Region......  Great Plains--Education              524,272
                                                                     Demolition Project.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                               U.S. FOREST SERVICE
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SD.....................................  Dakota Prairie Grasslands  Forest Road 5733                           0
                                                                     Reconditioning and
                                                                     Drainage Repairs.
ND.....................................  Dakota Prairie Grasslands  Civilian Conservation                375,000
                                                                     Corps Campground Updates
                                                                     near Maah-Daah-Hey
                                                                     Trail, Theodore National
                                                                     Park and Bakken Oil
                                                                     Formation.
CO.....................................  Pike-San Isabel National   Devil's Head Toilet                        0
                                          Forests and Cimarron and   Replacement.
                                          Comanche National
                                          Grasslands.
CO.....................................  Pike-San Isabel National   Vault Toilet Replacement.            329,000
                                          Forests and Cimarron and
                                          Comanche National
                                          Grasslands.
NV.....................................  Humboldt-Toiyabe National  Lamoille Canyon Road                       0
                                          Forest.                    Pavement Preservation.
NV.....................................  Humboldt-Toiyabe National  Mt Rose and Tahoe Meadows            828,500
                                          Forest.                    Restroom Reconstruction.
CA.....................................  Mendocino National Forest  Hammerhorn Accessibility                   0
                                                                     Improvements.
CA.....................................  Cleveland National Forest  Renovate Blue Jay                    385,000
                                                                     Campground.
WV.....................................  Monongahela National       Elleber North Fork Deer                    0
                                          Forest.                    Creek Bridge Replacement.
WV.....................................  Monongahela National       West Fork Greenbrier                       0
                                          Forest.                    Bridge Replacement for
                                                                     Laurel Fork Wilderness
                                                                     Access.
WI.....................................  Chequamegon-Nicolet        South Branch Oconto River            520,042
                                          National Forest.           Accessible Fishing Pier
                                                                     Replacement.
MI.....................................  Ottawa National Forest...  South Branch Paint River             520,042
                                                                     Bridge Replacement for
                                                                     Timber Access and
                                                                     Recreation.
PA.....................................  Grey Towers National       Replace Temporary                          0
                                          Historic Site.             Structure at Grey Towers
                                                                     National Historic Site.
PA.....................................  Grey Towers National       Grey Towers Deferred                  75,000
                                          Historic Site.             Maintenance.
PR.....................................  El Yunque National Forest  El Portal Bridge                           0
                                                                     Replacement and Visitor
                                                                     Improvements.
VA.....................................  George Washington and      Lower Sherando Dam                         0
                                          Jefferson National         Spillway Upgrade.
                                          Forests.
AR.....................................  Ozark-St Francis National  Cove Lake Dam Spillway               315,000
                                          Forests.                   Rehabilitation.
AR.....................................  Ozark-St Francis National  Bear Creek Lake Spillway           1,200,000
                                          Forests.                   Rehabilitation.
                                         Mission Support funds....  .........................         22,742,907
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                     ALLOCATION OF FUNDS: LAND AND WATER CONSERVATION FUND FISCAL YEAR 2023
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                  State(s)                          Agency--Account--Activity--Project           Funding Amount
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
---------------------------------------------OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY--------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  .........................................  Departmental Operations.........................
  .........................................  Appraisal and Valuation Services--Federal Lands.         19,000,000
  .........................................  TOTAL, OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY..................         19,000,000
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                            BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  .........................................  Land Acquisition................................
  .........................................  Acquisition Management..........................          8,137,000
  .........................................  Recreational Access.............................         20,500,000
  .........................................  Inholdings, Emergencies & Hardships.............         13,500,000
Mult.......................................  California National Historical Trail (CA/NV)....          2,000,000
MT.........................................  Big Hole River Access...........................          5,300,000
ID.........................................  Upper Snake/South Fork River Special Recreation           6,250,000
                                              Management Area and Tex Creek Wildlife
                                              Management Area.
OR.........................................  Pipe Fork-Port Orford Cedar Research Natural                500,000
                                              Area.
MT.........................................  Blackfoot River Watershed.......................          1,000,000
WY.........................................  Mule Creek Ranch................................          1,700,000
NM.........................................  Rio Grande del Norte National Monument..........          9,990,000
OR.........................................  Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument..............          1,200,000
  .........................................  Subtotal, Land Acquisition Projects.............         27,940,000
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  .........................................  TOTAL, BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT................         70,077,000
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                         U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  .........................................  Land Acquisition................................
  .........................................  Highlands Conservation Act (Public Law 108-421).         10,000,000
  .........................................  Land Acquisition Management.....................         18,028,000
  .........................................  Sportsmen and Recreational Access...............         15,500,000
  .........................................  Inholding/Emergencies and Hardships.............         10,000,000
  .........................................  Exchanges.......................................          1,591,000
  .........................................  Land Protection Planning........................            493,000
ME.........................................  Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge..........          2,000,000
TX.........................................  Lower Rio Grande National Wildlife Refuge.......          3,000,000
Mult.......................................  Great Thicket National Wildlife Refuge (CT/MA/ME/         1,500,000
                                              NH/NY/RI).
AR.........................................  Cache River National Wildlife Refuge............          1,000,000
Mult.......................................  Dakota Grassland Conservation Area (ND/SD)......          3,000,000
Mult.......................................  Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife                3,000,000
                                              Refuge (CT/MA/NH/VT).
Mult.......................................  Northern Tallgrass Prairie National Wildlife                500,000
                                              Refuge (IA/MN).
TX.........................................  Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge........          4,000,000
CA.........................................  Sacramento River National Wildlife Refuge.......          1,000,000
FL.........................................  Everglades Headwaters National Wildlife Refuge/           4,000,000
                                              Conservation Area.
PA.........................................  Cherry Valley National Wildlife Refuge..........          3,000,000
Mult.......................................  Dakota Tallgrass Prairie Wildlife Management              1,000,000
                                              Area (ND/SD).

[[Page S8719]]

 
Mult.......................................  Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge (IL/WI).....          1,100,000
CA.........................................  Grasslands Wildlife Management Area.............          1,000,000
AK.........................................  Alaska Refuges..................................          2,800,000
AR.........................................  Felsenthal National Wildlife Refuge.............          3,000,000
FL.........................................  St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge..............          2,000,000
WA.........................................  Willapa National Wildlife Refuge................          3,500,000
MT.........................................  Montana Conservation Areas......................         12,000,000
IN.........................................  Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge...........          2,500,000
CA.........................................  San Joaquin River National Wildlife Refuge......          2,000,000
CA.........................................  Tulare Basin Wildlife Management Area...........          1,000,000
MO.........................................  Big Muddy National Fish and Wildlife Refuge.....            429,000
  .........................................  Subtotal, Land Acquisition Projects.............         58,329,000
  .........................................  Total, Land Acquisition.........................        113,941,000
  .........................................  Cooperative Endangered Species Conservation Fund
  .........................................  Species Recovery Land Acquisition...............         11,162,000
  .........................................  Habitat Conservation Plan Acquisition...........         21,638,000
  .........................................  Total, Cooperative Endangered Species                    32,800,000
                                              Conservation Fund.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  .........................................  TOTAL, U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE...........        146,741,000
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                              NATIONAL PARK SERVICE
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  .........................................  Land Acquisition and State Assistance...........
  .........................................  State Conservation Grants.......................        200,000,000
  .........................................  LWCF Outdoor Recreation Legacy Grants...........        125,000,000
  .........................................  State Conservation Grants Administration........         11,028,000
  .........................................  Subtotal, State Assistance......................        336,028,000
  .........................................  American Battlefield Protection Program (Public          20,000,000
                                              Law 113-287).
  .........................................  Acquisition Management..........................         14,500,000
  .........................................  Recreational Access.............................         14,500,000
  .........................................  Emergencies, Hardships, Relocations, and                  3,421,000
                                              Deficiencies.
                                             Inholding, Donations, and Exchanges.............          7,000,000
HI.........................................  Haleakala National Park.........................         12,900,000
FL.........................................  Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve.......          4,950,000
CA.........................................  Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area.         12,600,000
GA.........................................  Cumberland Island National Seashore.............          2,850,000
AR.........................................  Buffalo National River..........................          1,635,000
FL.........................................  Big Cypress National Preserve...................          1,500,000
TN.........................................  Big South Fork National River and Recreation              5,600,000
                                              Area.
Mult.......................................  Battlefield Parks...............................          2,500,000
NY.........................................  Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic             840,000
                                              Site.
MT.........................................  Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area.........            770,000
GA.........................................  Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park........          1,150,000
SC.........................................  Congaree National Park..........................            200,000
NM.........................................  Petroglyph National Monument....................          2,630,000
MI.........................................  Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore..........          2,170,000
AZ.........................................  Saguaro National Park...........................          4,125,000
AZ.........................................  Petrified Forest National Park..................          1,235,000
GA.........................................  Cumberland Island National Seashore.............          8,700,000
  .........................................  Subtotal, Land Acquisition Projects.............         66,355,000
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  .........................................  TOTAL, NATIONAL PARK SERVICE....................        461,804,000
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                               U.S. FOREST SERVICE
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  .........................................  Land Acquisition................................
  .........................................  Acquisition Management..........................         14,000,000
  .........................................  Recreational Access.............................         17,000,000
  .........................................  Critical Inholdings/Wilderness..................          5,500,000
  .........................................  Cash Equalization...............................            250,000
AK.........................................  Chugach National Forest.........................          4,000,000
WA.........................................  Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest..............          6,500,000
NC.........................................  National Forests in North Carolina..............          3,600,000
MT.........................................  Lolo National Forest............................          9,000,000
GA.........................................  Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests...........          8,050,000
OR.........................................  Umatilla National Forest........................         10,000,000
CO.........................................  Rio Grande National Forest......................          8,000,000
MT.........................................  Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest............          3,000,000
AZ.........................................  Prescott National Forest........................          9,500,000
SC.........................................  Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests......          5,000,000
CA.........................................  Tahoe National Forest...........................          9,750,000
MT.........................................  Custer Gallatin National Forest.................          2,000,000
PR.........................................  El Yunque National Forest.......................          2,388,000
CO.........................................  Pike and San Isabel National Forests............          3,400,000
VT.........................................  Green Mountain National Forest--Taconic Gateway/          3,500,000
                                              Big Spruce.
  .........................................  Subtotal, Land Acquisition Projects.............         87,688,000
  .........................................  Total, Land Acquisition.........................        124,438,000
  .........................................  Forest Legacy Program...........................
  .........................................  Administrative Funds............................          8,000,000
MT.........................................  Upper Thompson Connectivity Project.............          6,000,000
WI.........................................  Pelican River-Forest Project....................         11,000,000
ID.........................................  International Selkirk Loop Conservation Project.          7,000,000
FL.........................................  Wolfe Creek Forest Project......................          9,155,000
ME.........................................  South Bog Stream & Beaver Mountain Project......          3,665,000
HI.........................................  Kaneohe Pali Project............................          1,800,000
CA.........................................  Trinity Timberlands Project.....................          3,000,000
GA.........................................  Suwannee River Headwaters Forest Project........          1,860,000
VA.........................................  Southern Shenandoah Borderlands Project.........          7,095,000
WA.........................................  Kittitas Working Forest Project.................          5,700,000
MS.........................................  Wolf River Forest Conservation Project..........          7,000,000
AR.........................................  Hot Springs Forest Project......................          1,345,000
SC.........................................  Southern Coastal Biodiversity Project...........          3,975,000
HI.........................................  Maunawili Valley Project........................          1,345,000
  .........................................  Subtotal, Forest Legacy Projects................         69,940,000
  .........................................  Total, Forest Legacy Program....................         77,940,000
  .........................................  TOTAL, U.S. FOREST SERVICE......................        203,378,000
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  .........................................  TOTAL, LAND AND WATER CONSERVATION FUND FISCAL          900,000,000
                                              YEAR 2023.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                ALLOCATION OF FUNDS: LAND AND WATER CONSERVATION FUND FISCAL YEAR 2022 REVISIONS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                              NATIONAL PARK SERVICE
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PA.........................................  Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreation River......                  0
MA.........................................  Lowell National Historical Park.................            200,000
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                ALLOCATION OF FUNDS: LAND AND WATER CONSERVATION FUND FISCAL YEAR 2021 REVISIONS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                            BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MT.........................................  Big Snowy Mountain Access.......................                  0
MT.........................................  High Divide.....................................         12,100,000
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[[Page S8720]]

 
                                              NATIONAL PARK SERVICE
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OH.........................................  William Howard Taft National Historic Site......                  0
KS.........................................  Fort Scott National Historic Site...............                  0
CO.........................................  Dinosaur National Monument......................            488,667
OH.........................................  Cuyahoga Valley National Park...................          5,081,333
MS.........................................  Natchez National Historical Park................          1,330,000
MA.........................................  Lowell National Historical Park.................            200,000
Mult.......................................  Inholdings and Recreational Access..............            375,000
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


 ALLOCATION OF FUNDS: LAND AND WATER CONSERVATION FUND FISCAL YEAR 2023
                              SEQUESTRATION
                         (Amounts in thousands)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Office of the Secretary-Departmental Operations, Appraisal
 and Valuation Services--Federal Lands
  New Budget Authority, 2023...............................       19,000
  Previously Sequestered Budget Authority, 2022............      (1,083)
  Sequestration, 2023......................................        1,083
  Net Budget Authority, 2023...............................       19,000
Bureau of Land Management-Land Acquisition
  New Budget Authority, 2023...............................       70,077
  Previously Sequestered Budget Authority, 2022............      (3,843)
  Sequestration, 2023......................................        4,004
  Net Budget Authority, 2023...............................       70,328
Fish and Wildlife Service-Land Acquisition
  New Budget Authority, 2023...............................      113,941
  Previously Sequestered Budget Authority, 2022............      (6,571)
  Sequestration, 2023......................................        6,490
  Net Budget Authority, 2023...............................      113,860
Fish and Wildlife Service-Cooperative Endangered Species
 Conservation Fund
  New Budget Authority, 2023...............................       32,800
  Previously Sequestered Budget Authority, 2022............      (1,870)
  Sequestration, 2023......................................        1,870
  Net Budget Authority, 2023...............................       32,800
National Park Service-Land Acquisition and State Assistance
  New Budget Authority, 2023...............................      461,804
  Previously Sequestered Budget Authority, 2022............     (25,496)
  Sequestration, 2023......................................       26,373
  Net Budget Authority, 2023...............................      462,681
U.S. Forest Service-Land Acquisition
  New Budget Authority, 2023...............................      124,438
  Previously Sequestered Budget Authority, 2022............      (7,372)
  Sequestration, 2023......................................        7,076
  Net Budget Authority, 2023...............................      124,142
U.S. Forest Service-Forest Legacy
  New Budget Authority, 2023...............................       77,940
  Previously Sequestered Budget Authority, 2022............      (5,066)
  Sequestration, 2023......................................        4,405
  Net Budget Authority, 2023...............................       77,279
------------------------------------------------------------------------

   DISCLOSURE OF EARMARKS AND CONGRESSIONALLY DIRECTED SPENDING ITEMS

       Following is a list of congressional earmarks and 
     congressionally directed spending items (as defined in clause 
     9 of rule XXI of the Rules of the House of Representatives 
     and rule XLIV of the Standing Rules of the Senate, 
     respectively) included in the bill or this explanatory 
     statement, along with the name of each House Member, Senator, 
     Delegate, or Resident Commissioner who submitted a request to 
     the Committee of jurisdiction for each item so identified. 
     For each item, a Member is required to provide a 
     certification that neither the Member nor the Member's 
     immediate family has a financial interest, and each Senator 
     is required to provide a certification that neither the 
     Senator nor the Senator's immediate family has a pecuniary 
     interest in such congressionally directed spending item. 
     Neither the bill nor the explanatory statement contains any 
     limited tax benefits or limited tariff benefits as defined in 
     the applicable House and Senate rules.

[[Page S8721]]

  


     DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES

     [Community Project Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending]

[[Page S8722]]

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   DIVISION H--DEPARTMENTS OF LABOR, HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, AND 
        EDUCATION, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2023

       The explanatory statement accompanying this division is 
     approved and indicates Congressional intent. Unless otherwise 
     noted, the language set forth in House Report 117-403 carries 
     the same weight as language included in this explanatory 
     statement and should be complied with unless specifically 
     addressed to the contrary in this explanatory statement. 
     While some language is repeated for emphasis, it is not 
     intended to negate the language referred to above unless 
     expressly provided herein.
       In providing the operating plan required by section 516 of 
     this Act, the departments and agencies funded in this Act are 
     directed to include all programs, projects, and activities, 
     including those in House Report 117-403 and this explanatory 
     statement accompanying this Act. All such programs, projects, 
     and activities are subject to the provisions of this Act.
       In cases where House Report 117-403 or this explanatory 
     statement directs the submission of a report, that report is 
     to be submitted to the Committees on Appropriations of the 
     House of Representatives and the Senate. Where this 
     explanatory statement refers to the Committees or the 
     Committees on Appropriations, unless otherwise noted, this 
     reference is to the House of Representatives Subcommittee on 
     Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related 
     Agencies and the Senate Subcommittee on Labor, Health and 
     Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies.
       Each department and agency funded in this Act shall follow 
     the directions set forth in this Act and the accompanying 
     explanatory statement and shall not reallocate resources or 
     reorganize activities except as provided herein. Funds for 
     individual programs and activities are displayed in the 
     detailed table at the end of the explanatory statement 
     accompanying this Act. Funding levels that are not displayed 
     in the detailed table are identified within this explanatory 
     statement. Any action to eliminate or consolidate programs, 
     projects, and activities should be pursued through a proposal 
     in the President's Budget so it can be considered by the 
     Committees on Appropriations.
       Congressional Reports.--Each department and agency is 
     directed to provide the Committees on Appropriations, within 
     30 days from the date of enactment of this Act and quarterly 
     thereafter, a summary describing each requested report to the 
     Committees on Appropriations along with its status.

                                TITLE I

                          DEPARTMENT OF LABOR

                 Employment and Training Administration


                    TRAINING AND EMPLOYMENT SERVICES

       Advanced Robotics Manufacturing.--The agreement recognizes 
     the need for workforce training and certificate programs 
     targeting collaborative robotics and additive manufacturing, 
     with an emphasis on programs that re-skill incumbent 
     manufacturing workers.
       Occupational Licensing.--The agreement is encouraged by 
     progress made through the Department's efforts to incentivize 
     States to reduce barriers to entry into licensed occupations 
     and increase license portability to facilitate mobility of 
     workers in such occupations, with an emphasis on 
     transitioning service members, veterans, and military 
     spouses. The agreement directs the Department to submit a 
     report within 180 days of the date of enactment of this Act 
     detailing the resources needed to continue providing 
     technical assistance to States and relevant organizations.
       Skilled Care Workforce.--The agreement urges the Employment 
     and Training Administration (ETA), in collaboration with the 
     Department of Health and Human Services, to support the 
     expansion of the skilled care workforce to care for a rapidly 
     aging U.S. population and provide home and community-based 
     services to older adults and people with disabilities, 
     including through education and training grant programs, as 
     well as traditional and nontraditional apprenticeship 
     programs.
       Water and Wastewater Operators.--The agreement is concerned 
     by the nationwide shortage of water and wastewater operators, 
     particularly in rural areas, and urges the Secretary to make 
     funding available through workforce development and 
     apprenticeship activities consistent with National Guideline 
     Standards of Apprenticeship for Water and Wastewater System 
     Operations Specialists and the Workforce Innovation and 
     Opportunity Act system.
       Wireless Infrastructure.--The agreement encourages the 
     Department to continue investments in the development of the 
     wireless infrastructure workforce, including apprenticeships 
     in the wireless sector.
     Dislocated Worker National Reserve
       Career Pathways for Youth Grants.--The agreement includes 
     $20,000,000 for grants to support national out-of-school time 
     organizations that serve youth and teens and place an 
     emphasis on age-appropriate workforce readiness programming 
     to expand job training and workforce pathways for youth and 
     disconnected youth.
       Strengthening Community College Training Grants (SCCTG).--
     The agreement provides $65,000,000 for the SCCTG program.
       Workforce Opportunity for Rural Communities.--The agreement 
     provides $50,000,000 for the Workforce Opportunity for Rural 
     Communities program, to provide enhanced worker training in 
     the Appalachian, Delta, and Northern Border regions. The 
     Department is strongly encouraged to develop funding 
     opportunity announcements and make grant awards in 
     coordination with the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), 
     Delta Regional Authority (DRA), and Northern Border Regional 
     Commission (NBRC), and each award shall not exceed 
     $1,500,000. Within the total, the agreement includes 
     $21,750,000 for grants in areas served by the ARC; 
     $21,750,000 for areas served by the DRA, and $6,500,000 for 
     areas served by the NBRC.
     YouthBuild
       The Department is encouraged to ensure YouthBuild grants 
     serve geographically diverse areas, including rural areas.
     Reintegration of Ex-Offenders
       The agreement includes a set-aside of $30,000,000 for 
     competitive grants to national and regional intermediaries 
     and encourages the Department to prioritize grants to 
     national intermediaries and community-based organizations 
     with recognized expertise and nationwide employer partners 
     that will serve populations with multiple barriers to 
     employment and provide wrap-around services to the 
     individuals served.
     Apprenticeship Grant Program
       The agreement provides $285,000,000 to support registered 
     apprenticeships.
       The agreement directs the Department to provide semiannual 
     briefings to the Committees on all spending activities.
     Community Project Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending
       The agreement includes $217,324,000 for the projects, and 
     in the amounts, specified in the table titled ``Community 
     Project Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending'' included 
     in this explanatory statement accompanying this division.


                               JOB CORPS

       Atlanta Job Corps Center.--The agreement directs the 
     Department to provide a briefing within 90 days of enactment 
     of this Act on plans to reopen the Atlanta Job Corps Center.
       Civilian Conservation Centers.-- The agreement directs the 
     Department to prioritize the development of new natural 
     resource and conservation trade offerings, particularly 
     focused on wildland firefighting and emergency response, and 
     to include information in its fiscal year 2024 Congressional 
     Justification on such efforts including any potential 
     barriers to introducing such new trades.
       Gulfport Job Corps Center.--The agreement requests 
     quarterly updates regarding progress on the Gulfport Job 
     Corps Center project.
       Job Corps Rural Training Sites.--The agreement encourages 
     the Department to enhance opportunities for students in 
     underserved or remote communities through partnerships 
     between high quality center operators and existing rural 
     training sites.


     STATE UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE AND EMPLOYMENT SERVICE OPERATIONS

     Unemployment Insurance Compensation
       The agreement includes $3,134,635,000 for Unemployment 
     Insurance Compensation activities, an increase of 
     $283,819,000, for additional resources for States to increase 
     staffing capacity and to accommodate sustained increases in 
     workload.
     Employment Service
       National Activities.--The agreement includes $2,500,000 to 
     continue efforts to reduce the processing backlog for the 
     work opportunity tax credit program and for assisting States 
     to modernize information technology for processing 
     certification requests, which may include training and 
     technical assistance. Consistent with the effort to modernize 
     information technology for processing, the agreement supports 
     compatible rules across States. Further, the agreement 
     recognizes that processing requests for remote workers may 
     best be accomplished in the State where the workers reside 
     and not where the employer is located.
     Foreign Labor Certification
       The agreement recognizes the importance of the H-2B program 
     and urges the Department to take all necessary and 
     appropriate steps to ensure prompt processing of H-2B visa 
     applications. The agreement also directs the Department to 
     provide a report within 180 days of enactment of this Act 
     detailing the percentage of applications requesting temporary 
     labor certifications under the H-2B visa classification that 
     are not issued a final decision by the Department by the 
     employer's original anticipated start date of work.

             Occupational Safety and Health Administration

       The agreement requests a briefing within 180 days of 
     enactment of this Act on safety and health efforts of 
     individuals working in agriculture.

                       Bureau of Labor Statistics

       The agreement includes $10,000,000 in additional funds for 
     the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), which will allow BLS to 
     implement the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth (NLSY) 
     without reducing or eliminating existing statistical work or 
     reducing the number of full-time equivalent positions below 
     the fiscal year 2022 ceiling.
       The agreement includes sufficient resources to maintain and 
     expand the NLSY, including with continued work to develop the 
     new NLSY cohort. Specifically, the agreement provides 
     $14,500,000 to continue

[[Page S8875]]

     planning and developing the new NLSY cohort established by 
     the Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2020 and 
     maintained in the last two fiscal years. The agreement notes 
     that fiscal year 2023 amounts for the new cohort align with 
     budgeted levels provided by BLS in a five-year plan 
     transmitted to the Committees in fiscal year 2021. BLS shall 
     complete all necessary work in fiscal year 2023 for the new 
     cohort that was outlined in its five-year plan and shall not 
     use any allocated resources for NLSY in this agreement for 
     any other purpose. Further, BLS is directed to support the 
     continued fielding of the NLSY79 and NLSY97 cohorts and shall 
     refrain from implementing any reductions to either survey.
       Within 90 days of enactment of this Act, BLS shall brief 
     the Committees on its plans for executing these directives 
     and carrying out its implementation of the new NLSY cohort 
     five-year plan without delay.
       Within 30 days of enactment of this Act, BLS is directed to 
     brief the Committees on its use of resources provided for a 
     relocation to the Suitland Federal Center.

                        Departmental Management

       Federal Law Enforcement.--The agreement notes that the 
     explanatory statement accompanying the Commerce, Justice, 
     Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2022 
     directs the Attorney General to ensure implementation of 
     evidence-based training programs on de-escalation and the 
     use-of-force, as well as on police community relations, and 
     the protection of civil rights, that are broadly applicable 
     and scalable to all Federal law enforcement agencies. The 
     agreement further notes that several agencies funded by this 
     Act employ Federal law enforcement officers and are Federal 
     Law Enforcement Training Centers partner organizations. The 
     agreement directs such agencies to consult with the Attorney 
     General regarding the implementation of these programs for 
     their law enforcement officers. The agreement further directs 
     such agencies to submit a report to the Committees on 
     Appropriations on their efforts relating to such 
     implementation no later than 180 days after consultation with 
     the Attorney General. In addition, the agreement directs such 
     agencies, to the extent that they are not already 
     participating, to consult with the Attorney General and the 
     Director of the FBI regarding participation in the National 
     Use-of-Force Data Collection. The agreement further directs 
     such agencies to submit a report to the Committees on 
     Appropriations, no later than 180 days after enactment of 
     this Act, on their efforts to so participate.

                           General Provisions

       The agreement modifies a provision related to the Treasure 
     Island Job Corps Center.
       The agreement modifies a provision related to H-1B fees.

                                TITLE II

                DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

          Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)


                          PRIMARY HEALTH CARE

     Health Centers
       Alcee L. Hastings Program for Advanced Cancer Screening in 
     Underserved Communities.--The agreement includes no less than 
     $10,000,000 for this activity and encourages HRSA to use the 
     additional funding to award grants to approved but unfunded 
     applicants from the fiscal year 2022 notice of funding 
     opportunity.
       Children's Mental Health Services.--The agreement continues 
     to urge HRSA to provide funding to Health Centers to support 
     vital mental health services for children.
       Early Childhood Development.--The agreement includes no 
     less than $30,000,000 to expand and further integrate early 
     childhood development services and expertise, including by 
     hiring or contracting for early childhood development 
     specialists, as described in House Report 117-403 and the 
     fiscal year 2023 budget request.
       Ending the HIV Epidemic.--The agreement includes 
     $157,250,000 within the Health Centers program for the Ending 
     the HIV Epidemic Initiative.
       HRSA Strategy to Address Intimate Partner Violence and 
     Project Catalyst.--The agreement includes no less than 
     $2,000,000 for this activity.
       Native Hawaiian Health Care.--The agreement includes no 
     less than $27,000,000 for the Native Hawaiian Health Care 
     Program, of which not less than $10,000,000 shall be provided 
     to Papa Ola Lokahi for administrative purposes authorized 
     under 42 U.S.C. 11706, including to expand research and 
     surveillance related to the health status of Native Hawaiians 
     and strengthen the capacity of the Native Hawaiian Health 
     Care Systems.
       School-Based Health Centers.--The agreement includes 
     $55,000,000 for school-based health centers authorized under 
     section 330 of the Public Health Service (PHS) Act, as 
     directed in P.L. 116-260.
       Technical Assistance.--The agreement provides no less than 
     $2,500,000 to enhance technical assistance and training 
     activities, further quality improvement initiatives, and 
     continue the development of and support for Health Center-
     controlled networks so that new and existing centers can 
     improve patient access to quality health services.
       The agreement does not include dedicated funding for the 
     Integrating High-Quality Contraceptive Care activity 
     described in House Report 117-403.


                            HEALTH WORKFORCE

       Addressing Workforce Shortages.--The agreement supports 
     HRSA's efforts to develop the workforce needed to care for a 
     rapidly aging U.S. population. The agreement encourages HRSA 
     to address the skilled care workforce needs of seniors 
     through existing workforce education and training programs.
       Language Access in Behavioral Health Services.--The 
     agreement notes that racial and ethnic minority communities 
     continue to face acute challenges accessing behavioral health 
     services, including within health centers, due to the lack of 
     providers who speak their language or understand their 
     culture. Specifically, the agreement recognizes that these 
     health centers serve a higher percentage of persons with 
     limited English proficiency (LEP) as a direct result of their 
     mission. The agreement encourages HRSA to assess the need for 
     and provision of language services and culturally and 
     linguistically competent health care in these health centers, 
     in an effort to further improve practitioner recruitment and 
     retention and increase language access to behavioral health 
     services.
     National Health Service Corps (Corps)
       Maternity Care Target Areas (MCTAs).--The agreement 
     includes $5,000,000, an increase of $4,000,000 above the 
     fiscal year 2022 enacted level, within the Corps to implement 
     requirements contained in the Improving Access to Maternity 
     Care Act, including establishing criteria for and identifying 
     MCTAs and collecting and publishing data on the availability 
     and need for maternity care health services in Health 
     Professional Shortage Areas.
       NHSC Loan Repayment Application Process.--The agreement 
     requests the report that was requested in House Report 117-
     403 within 180 days of enactment of this Act.
       The agreement does not include dedicated funding for the 
     Behavioral Health Demonstration Program and the Rural 
     Demonstration Program described in House Report 117-403.
     Scholarships for Disadvantaged Students
       Midwife Training.--The agreement includes $5,000,000 to 
     support grants to educate midwives to address the national 
     shortage of maternity care providers.
     Primary Care Training and Enhancement
       Eating Disorders Screening and Referrals.--The agreement 
     includes up to $1,000,000, in coordination with SAMHSA's 
     Center of Excellence for Eating Disorders, to provide 
     trainings for primary care health professionals to screen, 
     briefly intervene, and refer patients to treatment for the 
     severe mental illness of eating disorders, as authorized 
     under section 13006 of the 21st Century Cures Act (P.L. 114-
     255).
     Training in Oral Health Care
       The agreement provides $42,673,000 for Training in Oral 
     Health Care programs, which includes not less than 
     $13,000,000 each for general and pediatric dentistry.
     Area Health Education Centers (AHECs)
       The agreement provides $47,000,000 for this activity, an 
     increase of $2,000,000 above the fiscal year 2022 enacted 
     level. Within the total, the agreement includes no less than 
     $3,000,000 to continue competitive grants for AHEC recipients 
     to expand experiential learning opportunities through 
     simulation labs designed to educate and train health care 
     professionals serving rural, medically underserved 
     communities. HRSA shall include as an allowable use the 
     purchase of simulation training equipment.
     Mental and Behavioral Health
       Graduate Psychology Education.--The agreement includes 
     $25,000,000 for this activity.
     Behavioral Health Workforce Education and Training
       Mental and Substance Use Disorder Workforce Training 
     Demonstration.--The agreement includes $34,700,000 for this 
     activity. Within the total, the agreement includes 
     $25,000,000 for the Addiction Medicine Fellowship Program to 
     foster robust community-based clinical training of addiction 
     medicine or addiction psychiatry physicians in underserved, 
     community-based settings who see patients at various access 
     points of care and provide addiction prevention, 
     treatment, and recovery services across health care 
     sectors.
       Peer Support.--The agreement includes no less than 
     $14,000,000 for community-based experiential training for 
     students preparing to become peer support specialists and 
     other types of behavioral health-related paraprofessionals, 
     as described in House Report 117-403.
       Substance Use Disorder Treatment and Recovery (STAR) Loan 
     Repayment Program.--The agreement includes $40,000,000 for 
     this program.
       The agreement does not include dedicated funding for 
     Behavioral Health Integration into Community Based Settings, 
     the Community Improvement Program, and Crisis Workforce 
     Development activities described in House Report 117-403.
     Public Health and Preventive Medicine
       The agreement includes an increase of $500,000 for the 
     Preventive Medicine Residency Training Program and an 
     increase of $500,000 for Public Health Training Centers.
     Advanced Nursing Education
       Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs).--The agreement includes 
     $8,000,000 to grow and diversify the maternal and perinatal 
     health nursing workforce by increasing and diversifying the 
     number of CNMs, with a focus on practitioners working in 
     rural and underserved communities. The program will award

[[Page S8876]]

     scholarships to students and registered nurses to cover the 
     total cost of tuition for the duration of the nurse midwifery 
     program.
       Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners Program.--The agreement 
     includes $15,000,000, an increase of $2,000,000 above the 
     fiscal year 2022 enacted level, to expand training and 
     certification of registered nurses, advanced practice 
     registered nurses, and forensic nurses to practice as sexual 
     assault nurse examiners.
     Nurse Education, Practice, Quality and Retention (NEPQR)
       The agreement includes $59,413,000 for competitive grants 
     within the NEPQR program. Within this total, the agreement 
     provides $10,750,000, an increase of $5,000,000 above the 
     fiscal year 2022 enacted level, to expand competitive grants 
     to enhance nurse education through the expansion of 
     experiential learning opportunities. The grants shall include 
     as an allowable use the purchase of simulation training 
     equipment. HRSA shall prioritize grantees with a demonstrated 
     commitment to training rural health professionals in States 
     with high rates of chronic age-related illness, including 
     stroke, heart disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary 
     disease.


                       MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH

     Maternal and Child Health Block Grant Special Projects of 
         Regional and National Significance (SPRANS)
       Early Childhood Development Expert Grants.--The agreement 
     includes $10,000,000 to place early childhood development 
     experts in pediatric settings, as described in House Report 
     117-403.
       Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia Centers of 
     Excellence.--The agreement continues to include $2,000,000 
     for this activity.
       Infant-Toddler Court Teams.--The agreement includes 
     $18,000,000 for Infant-Toddler Court Teams, as described in 
     House Report 117-403.
       Maternal Mental Health Hotline.--The agreement includes 
     $7,000,000 to provide grants, contracts, or cooperative 
     agreements to expand support for a maternal mental health 
     hotline.
       National Fetal Infant and Child Death Review (FICDR).--The 
     agreement includes $5,000,000 for the national FICDR program 
     to expand support and technical assistance to States and 
     tribal communities and improve the availability of data on 
     sudden unexpected infant deaths and child mortality.
       Minority-Serving Institutions.--The agreement includes 
     $10,000,000 to establish a research network that is comprised 
     of and supports minority-serving institutions to study health 
     disparities in maternal health outcomes, as described in the 
     fiscal year 2023 budget request.
       Regional Pediatric Pandemic Network.--The agreement 
     provides $25,000,000 for the Regional Pediatric Pandemic 
     Network to coordinate among the Nation's pediatric hospitals 
     and their communities to prepare for and coordinate research-
     informed responses to future pandemics. With the increase 
     provided, HRSA is directed to achieve parity in the two 
     awardees' funding levels.
       State Maternal Health Innovation Grants.--The agreement 
     includes $55,000,000 for this activity.
       The agreement does not include dedicated funding for the 
     following activities described in House Report 117-403: 
     Addressing Emerging Issues and Social Determinants of 
     Maternal Health, Behavioral Health Integration into Community 
     Based Settings, Bias Recognition in Clinical Skills Testing, 
     Bias Training for Health Care Professionals, Group Prenatal 
     and Postpartum Care Programs, and Growing and Diversifying 
     the Doula Workforce.
       Set-asides within SPRANS.--The agreement includes the 
     following set-asides within SPRANS. Within the total for Oral 
     Health, the agreement includes $250,000 for demonstration 
     projects.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              FY 2023
                     Budget Activity                         Agreement
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Set-aside for Oral Health...............................      $5,250,000
Set-aside for Epilepsy..................................       3,642,000
Set-aside for Sickle Cell Disease.......................       7,000,000
Set-aside for Fetal Alcohol Syndrome....................       1,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

     Maternal and Child Health Programs
     Autism and Other Developmental Disorders
       Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related 
     Disabilities Program (LEND).--The agreement includes not less 
     than $38,245,000 for this activity.
     Heritable Disorders
       Severe Combined Immune Deficiency (SCID).--The agreement 
     includes $4,000,000 to support newborn screening and follow-
     up for SCID and other newborn screening disorders.
     Healthy Start
       The agreement includes $145,000,000 to support this 
     program, including funds to support a new targeted expansion 
     of an enhanced Healthy Start program model to approximately 
     10 new communities, as described in the fiscal year 2023 
     budget request.
       Maternal Mortality.--The agreement continues to provide no 
     less than $15,000,000 for Healthy Start grantees to support 
     nurse practitioners, certified nurse midwives, physician 
     assistants, and other maternal-child advanced practice 
     health professionals within all program sites nationwide.
     Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI)
       The agreement recognizes the requirement under the PHS Act 
     for EHDI funds to support prompt evaluation and diagnosis of 
     children referred from screening programs and appropriate 
     educational, audiological, medical, and communication (or 
     language acquisition) interventions (including family 
     support), for children identified as deaf or hard-of-hearing. 
     The agreement encourages HRSA to provide the most accurate, 
     comprehensive, up-to-date, and evidence-based information to 
     children identified as deaf or hard-of-hearing and their 
     families. The agreement also encourages HRSA to work with 
     partners to advance awareness about the wide range of 
     modalities available for children who are deaf and hard of 
     hearing, including but not limited to auditory-oral therapy, 
     auditory-verbal therapy, Signed Exact English (SEE), American 
     Sign Language (ASL), Total Communication (TC), and Cued 
     Speech; as well as a full range of assistive hearing 
     technologies, such as hearing aids and cochlear implants.
     Poison Control Centers (PCCs)
       The agreement provides $26,846,000, an increase of 
     $1,000,000 above the fiscal year 2022 enacted level, for 
     PCCs. The agreement directs HRSA to provide increased funds 
     directly to the PCCs and requests a spend plan for the funds 
     within 30 days of enactment of this Act. The agreement also 
     requests an update within 30 days of enactment of this Act on 
     the status of efforts to work with the Federal Communications 
     Commission to address the geolocation needs for incoming 
     calls.
     Alliance for Innovation in Maternal Health Safety Bundles
       The agreement includes $15,300,000 for this activity, 
     authorized in section 330O of the PHS Act.
     Pregnancy Medical Home Demonstration
       The agreement includes $10,000,000 to support a 
     demonstration to incentivize maternal health care providers 
     to provide integral health care services to pregnant women 
     and new mothers, as authorized in section 330P of the PHS 
     Act.


                      RYAN WHITE HIV/AIDS PROGRAM

       Ending the HIV Epidemic.--The agreement includes 
     $165,000,000 within the Ryan White program for the Ending the 
     HIV Epidemic initiative.


                             HEALTH SYSTEMS

     Organ Transplantation
       Living Organ Donation Reimbursement Program.--The agreement 
     supports significant expansion of income eligibility for the 
     program to allow as many donors as possible to qualify for 
     reimbursement.
       The agreement supports HHS' efforts to increase 
     transparency and promote competition regarding Organ 
     Procurement Organizations (OPOs) and the Organ Procurement 
     Transplantation Network (OPTN), as described in House Report 
     117-403.
     C.W. Bill Young Cell Transplantation Program
       The agreement provides $33,009,000 for the C.W. Bill Young 
     Cell Transplantation Program and requests a detailed spend 
     plan within 30 days of enactment of this Act.
     National Cord Blood Inventory (NCBI)
       To further strengthen communication and collaboration 
     between HRSA and its contracted cord blood banks, the 
     agreement directs HRSA to host quarterly stakeholder calls 
     open to all cord blood banks contracting with HRSA to build 
     the NCBI, as described in House Report 117-403.


                              RURAL HEALTH

     Rural Health Outreach
       Delta States Rural Development Network Grant Program.--The 
     agreement includes not less than $27,000,000 for the Delta 
     States Rural Development Network Grant Program and the Delta 
     Region Community Health Systems Development Program. In 
     addition, of the funds provided, the agreement provides not 
     less than $15,000,000 to support HRSA's collaboration with 
     the Delta Regional Authority (DRA) to continue the Delta 
     Region Community Health Systems Development Program to help 
     underserved rural communities better address their health 
     care needs. Within 90 days of enactment of this Act, the 
     agreement directs HRSA and DRA to jointly brief the 
     Committees on this program's progress.
       Northern Border Regional Grant Program.--The agreement 
     provides no less than $3,000,000 for HRSA's collaboration 
     with the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) to 
     provide direct support to member States to help underserved 
     rural communities with planning and implementing service 
     coordination improvements that better population health.
       Rural Maternity and Obstetrics Management Strategies 
     (RMOMS).--The agreement includes $8,000,000 for RMOMS.
     Rural Hospital Flexibility Grants
       Rural Emergency Hospital Technical Assistance Program.--The 
     agreement includes no less than $5,000,000 for this activity.
     Rural Residency Planning and Development
       The agreement provides $12,500,000 for the Rural Residency 
     Planning and Development program. This includes $2,000,000 to 
     increase family medicine/obstetrics training programs in 
     States with high infant morbidity and mortality rates. HRSA 
     is directed to brief the Committees on their plans no less 
     than 15 days prior to releasing a funding opportunity 
     announcement.
     Rural Communities Opioids Response Program (RCORP)
       The agreement includes $145,000,000, an increase of 
     $10,000,000, to expand RCORP. Within the funding provided, 
     the agreement includes $10,000,000 to continue the three 
     Rural

[[Page S8877]]

     Centers of Excellence (Centers), as established by P.L. 115-
     245 and continued through P.L. 116-260 and 117-103. Funding 
     provided to the Centers may also be used for research and 
     dissemination activities to address rural tobacco and alcohol 
     addiction. Within the total for RCORP, the agreement also 
     includes $4,000,000 to support career and workforce training 
     services for the NBRC region to assist individuals affected 
     by an opioid use disorder.


                            FAMILY PLANNING

       The Family Planning program administers Title X of the PHS 
     Act. This program supports preventive and primary health care 
     services at clinics nationwide. The agreement does not 
     include language proposed by the House.

                HRSA-Wide Activities and Program Support

       Oral Health Literacy.--The agreement includes $300,000 for 
     the activity described under this heading in House Report 
     117-403.
       Community Projects/Congressionally Directed Spending.--
     Within the funds included in this account, $1,521,681,000 
     shall be for the Community Project Funding/Congressionally 
     Directed Spending projects, and in the amounts, as specified 
     in the table included in this explanatory statement 
     accompanying this division.
     Office of Pharmacy Affairs
       In lieu of the report requested in House Report 117-403, 
     the agreement directs HRSA to provide a briefing within 120 
     days of enactment of this Act on actions taken to safeguard 
     covered entities' lawful access to discounted drugs.
     Telehealth
       Telehealth Centers of Excellence (COE).--The agreement 
     includes $8,500,000 for the Telehealth COE awarded sites.
       Provider Bridge.--The agreement includes $500,000 to 
     continue the development of the Provider Bridge as part of 
     the Licensure Portability Grant Program.

               Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

       The agreement provides $9,217,590,000 in total program 
     level funding for the Centers for Disease Control and 
     Prevention (CDC), which includes $8,258,932,000 in budget 
     authority and $903,300,000 in transfers from the Prevention 
     and Public Health (PPH) Fund.


                 IMMUNIZATION AND RESPIRATORY DISEASES

       The agreement provides a total of $919,291,000 for 
     Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, which includes 
     $499,941,000 in discretionary appropriations and $419,350,000 
     in transfers from the PPH Fund. Within this total, the 
     agreement includes the following amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              FY 2023
                     Budget Activity                         Agreement
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Section 317 Immunization Program........................    $681,933,000
Acute Flaccid Myelitis..................................       6,000,000
Influenza Planning and Response.........................     231,358,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       317 Immunization Program.--The agreement includes an 
     increase to enhance immunization efforts, including 
     increasing awardee base awards with a focus on expanding and 
     sustaining critical immunization program infrastructure and 
     promoting routine vaccination. CDC is expected to use this 
     funding to promote health equity related to protection from 
     vaccine preventable diseases, as well as address vaccine 
     hesitancy. In expanding existing immunization infrastructure, 
     CDC is directed to implement new strategies for hard-to-reach 
     populations, such as those who may be vaccine-hesitant, those 
     who are members of racial or ethnic minority groups, and 
     those who are underserved due to socioeconomic or other 
     reasons. The agreement urges CDC to prioritize and to 
     allocate resources to engage providers, healthcare 
     stakeholders, educators, community organizations, and 
     families on the importance of ensuring that all individuals 
     receive their recommended routine vaccinations. The agreement 
     also requests CDC provide the Committees an update on the 
     achievements of the ongoing ``Vaccinate with Confidence'' 
     campaign and the rate of routine vaccination across all ages, 
     as well as a forward-looking plan to administer missed doses. 
     CDC should include in the plan recommendations about what 
     other tools it could employ to promote health equity.
       Influenza Planning and Response.--The agreement includes an 
     increase to enhance CDC's influenza activities.


     HIV/AIDS, VIRAL HEPATITIS, SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES AND 
                        TUBERCULOSIS PREVENTION

       The agreement provides $1,391,056,000 for HIV/AIDS, Viral 
     Hepatitis, Sexually Transmitted Diseases, and Tuberculosis 
     Prevention. Within this total, the agreement includes the 
     following amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                   Budget Activity                     FY 2023 Agreement
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Domestic HIV/AIDS Prevention and Research............     $1,013,712,000
HIV Initiative.......................................        220,000,000
School Health-HIV....................................         38,081,000
Viral Hepatitis......................................         43,000,000
Sexually Transmitted Infections......................        174,310,000
Tuberculosis.........................................        137,034,000
Infectious Diseases and the Opioid Epidemic..........         23,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Ending the HIV Epidemic (EHE) Initiative.--The agreement 
     includes an increase to advance the activities of EHE, 
     including increasing equitable access to pre-exposure 
     prophylaxis (PrEP).
       Infectious Diseases and the Opioid Epidemic.--The agreement 
     includes an increase for activities as outlined in House 
     Report 117-403. In addition, the agreement strongly 
     encourages CDC to prioritize jurisdictions with the highest 
     age-adjusted mortality rate related to substance use 
     disorders and acute hepatitis C infection. CDC is also 
     strongly encouraged to prioritize jurisdictions that are 
     experiencing high rates of new HIV infections or outbreaks or 
     emerging clusters of infectious diseases associated with drug 
     use, including those not eligible for EHE funding.
       School Health.--The agreement includes an increase for the 
     expansion of school health activities.
       Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs).--The agreement 
     includes an increase for STI prevention and control 
     activities in public health programs, and CDC is directed to 
     move the grant year forward by at least one month.
       Tuberculosis (TB).--The agreement includes an increase to 
     advance TB elimination efforts.
       Viral Hepatitis.--The agreement includes an increase to 
     advance efforts to eliminate viral hepatitis.


               EMERGING AND ZOONOTIC INFECTIOUS DISEASES

       The agreement provides $750,772,000 for Emerging and 
     Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, which includes $698,772,000 in 
     discretionary appropriations and $52,000,000 in transfers 
     from the PPH Fund. Within this total, the agreement includes 
     the following amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              FY 2023
                     Budget Activity                         Agreement
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Antibiotic Resistance Initiative........................     197,000,000
Vector-Borne Diseases...................................      62,603,000
Lyme Disease............................................      26,000,000
Prion Disease...........................................       7,500,000
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome................................       5,400,000
Emerging Infectious Diseases............................     202,997,000
Harmful Algal Blooms....................................       3,500,000
Food Safety.............................................      71,000,000
National Healthcare Safety Network......................      24,000,000
Quarantine..............................................      58,772,000
Advanced Molecular Detection............................      40,000,000
Epidemiology and Lab Capacity...........................      40,000,000
Healthcare-Associated Infections........................      12,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Advanced Molecular Detection (AMD).--The agreement includes 
     an increase to bolster genomic epidemiology expertise and 
     capacity. The agreement requests a status update on how 
     funding provided in the American Rescue Plan Act (P.L. 117-2) 
     and in fiscal year 2022 appropriations have increased 
     capabilities at public health departments in the fiscal year 
     2024 Congressional Justification.
       Antimicrobial and Antibiotic Resistance (AR).--The 
     agreement includes an increase for activities and directives 
     outlined in House Report 117-403. In addition, CDC is 
     directed to improve data collection and increase support for 
     U.S. health departments to detect, contain, and prevent AR 
     infections and increase collaborative efforts at the 
     international, national, regional, State, tribal, and local 
     levels. Finally, the agreement directs CDC to work with other 
     HHS agencies to provide an annual briefing described under 
     the section of the explanatory statement dealing with the 
     Office of the Secretary within 30 days of enactment of this 
     Act and every succeeding annual appropriations Act.
       Centers of Excellence in Newcomer Health.--The agreement 
     notes with concern the underlying physical and mental health 
     needs of refugees, including those from Afghanistan, which 
     are often not detected or addressed at basic screenings at 
     the time of resettlement. The agreement urges CDC to expand 
     the number of Centers of Excellence in Newcomer Health, 
     giving preference to applicants from communities with a large 
     number of Afghan and other refugees. Finally, the agreement 
     encourages CDC to make geographic diversity a priority when 
     making awards.
       Emerging Infectious Diseases.--The agreement includes an 
     increase for emerging infectious disease work. In addition, 
     recognizing the important role wastewater testing plays for 
     our Nation's biosecurity, the agreement encourages CDC to 
     continue working with States and localities to broaden the 
     scope of wastewater surveillance capabilities to track COVID-
     19 and additional pathogens and to assist with public health 
     data analysis. The agreement requests information in the 
     fiscal year 2024 Congressional Justification on best 
     practices in developing wastewater surveillance programs in 
     rural settings and institutions of higher education, and 
     strategies to increase participation among State and local 
     governments and correctional facilities.
       Food Safety.--The agreement includes an increase to help 
     address critical unmet needs.
       Harmful Algal Blooms.--The agreement includes an increase 
     for the activities outlined in House Report 117-403.
       Lyme Disease and Related Tick-Borne Illnesses.--The 
     agreement provides an increase in recognition of the 
     importance of the prevention and control of Lyme disease and 
     related tick-borne diseases, and encourages CDC to support 
     surveillance and prevention of Lyme disease and other high 
     consequence tick-borne diseases in endemic areas as well as 
     areas not yet considered endemic. The agreement includes 
     funding for CDC's vector-borne diseases program to expand the 
     programs authorized under the Kay Hagan Tick Act (P.L. 116-
     94) to promote a public health approach to combat rising 
     cases of tick-borne diseases, including activities directed 
     in House Report 117-403. CDC is directed to develop and 
     implement methods to

[[Page S8878]]

     improve surveillance to more accurately report the disease 
     burden, including through the development of real time data 
     for reporting Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases, as 
     well as a process for estimating the prevalence of Post-
     Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome. CDC is directed to use 
     funding to improve early diagnosis of Lyme and related tick-
     borne diseases to prevent the development of late stage 
     disease and more serious and long-term disability. CDC is 
     encouraged to coordinate with the National Institutes of 
     Health (NIH), the National Institute of Mental Health, and 
     the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke 
     on publishing reports that assess diagnostic advancements, 
     methods for prevention, the state of treatment, and links 
     between tick-borne disease and psychiatric illnesses. The 
     agreement urges CDC, in coordination with NIH, to include in 
     their surveillance the long-term effects on patients 
     suffering from post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome, or 
     ``chronic Lyme disease.'' Additionally, given the impact of 
     Lyme disease and the status of ongoing clinical trials, the 
     agreement requests a report within 180 days of enactment of 
     this Act on CDC's research to-date and recommendations on 
     actions needed to facilitate a successful Lyme disease 
     vaccine rollout that will build confidence and encourage 
     uptake should a vaccine be approved by the FDA.
       Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/
     CFS).--The agreement commends CDC for its recent progress in 
     ME/CFS medical education and its participation in the 
     Interagency Working Group for ME/CFS. The agreement 
     encourages CDC to develop a national epidemiological and 
     disease tracking study of post-infectious syndromes 
     prevalence, specifically the rates of post-acute COVID-19 
     syndrome and ME/CFS in adults and children. The agreement 
     urges CDC to strengthen collaboration with 1) interagency 
     partners, 2) disease experts and stakeholders, and 3) the 
     NIH's Collaborative Research Centers on study design 
     protocol. Additionally, the agreement urges CDC to conduct 
     a series of epidemiological studies into the causes, 
     diagnosis, and risk factors of ME/CFS. Finally, the 
     agreement urges CDC to engage physicians and patients in 
     an effort to increase awareness of ME/CFS and disseminate 
     updated clinical guidance.
       Mycotic Diseases.--The agreement provides an increase of 
     $2,000,000 in Emerging Infectious Diseases for mycotic 
     diseases and directs CDC to fully utilize its clinical trial 
     partners and the Mycoses Study Group to address the growing 
     threat from mycological infection in the United States and 
     around the world.
       National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN).--The agreement 
     includes an increase for NHSN and supports the modernization 
     of the system's infrastructure.
       Prion Disease.--The agreement includes an increase to 
     advance efforts on human prion diseases, including 
     Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease, which are rapidly progressive and 
     fatal neurodegenerative diseases that occur in both humans 
     and animals, and recognizes the critical work of the National 
     Prion Disease Pathology Surveillance Center.
       Quarantine.--The agreement includes an increase to enhance 
     programs to protect the U.S. from infectious diseases.
       Vector-Borne Diseases.--The agreement includes an increase 
     for enhanced vector-borne disease activities, including those 
     outlined in House Report 117-403.


            CHRONIC DISEASE PREVENTION AND HEALTH PROMOTION

       The agreement provides $1,430,414,000 for Chronic Disease 
     Prevention and Health Promotion, which includes 
     $1,175,464,000 in discretionary appropriations and 
     $254,950,000 in transfers from the PPH Fund. Within this 
     total, the agreement includes the following amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              FY 2023
                     Budget Activity                         Agreement
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tobacco.................................................    $246,500,000
Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity...............      58,420,000
  High Obesity Rate Counties............................      16,500,000
School Health...........................................      19,400,000
Glaucoma................................................       4,000,000
Vision and Eye Health...................................       2,500,000
Alzheimer's Disease.....................................      38,500,000
Inflammatory Bowel Disease..............................       1,500,000
Interstitial Cystitis...................................       1,100,000
Excessive Alcohol Use...................................       6,000,000
Chronic Kidney Disease..................................       4,500,000
Chronic Disease Education and Awareness.................       4,500,000
Prevention Research Centers.............................      28,961,000
Heart Disease and Stroke................................     155,105,000
Diabetes................................................     155,129,000
National Diabetes Prevention Program....................      37,300,000
Breast and Cervical Cancer..............................     235,500,000
  WISEWOMAN.............................................      34,620,000
Breast Cancer Awareness for Young Women.................       6,960,000
Cancer Registries.......................................      53,440,000
Colorectal Cancer.......................................      44,294,000
Comprehensive Cancer....................................      22,425,000
Johanna's Law...........................................      11,500,000
Ovarian Cancer..........................................      14,500,000
Prostate Cancer.........................................      15,205,000
Skin Cancer.............................................       5,000,000
Cancer Survivorship Resource Center.....................         725,000
Oral Health.............................................      20,250,000
Safe Motherhood/Infant Health...........................     108,000,000
Arthritis...............................................      11,000,000
Epilepsy................................................      11,500,000
National Lupus Registry.................................      10,000,000
Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health (REACH)      68,950,000
  Good Health and Wellness in Indian Country............      24,000,000
Social Determinants of Health...........................       8,000,000
Million Hearts..........................................       5,000,000
National Early Child Care Collaboratives................       5,000,000
Hospitals Promoting Breastfeeding.......................       9,750,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Alzheimer's Disease.--The agreement provides an increase to 
     support provisions authorized by the BOLD Infrastructure for 
     Alzheimer's Act (P.L. 115-406).
       Cancer.--The agreement supports the Cancer Moonshot by 
     providing an increase for every CDC Cancer Program. In 
     addition to skin cancer discussed separately under this 
     account, the agreement includes an increase for Breast and 
     Cervical Cancer for the activities included in House Report 
     117-403, as well as increases for Breast Cancer Awareness for 
     Young Women, the National Program of Cancer Registries, 
     colorectal cancer, the National Comprehensive Cancer Control 
     Program, Johanna's Law, ovarian cancer, prostate cancer, 
     and the Cancer Survivorship Resource Center.
       Chronic Disease Education and Awareness.--The agreement 
     includes an increase to expand this competitive grant program 
     to a variety of chronic diseases not addressed by a specific 
     National Center for Chronic Disease and Prevention and Health 
     Promotion program.
       Chronic Kidney Disease.--The agreement includes an increase 
     to advance the activities included in House Report 117-403.
       Diabetes.--The agreement includes an increase to enhance 
     efforts to prevent diabetes and reduce its complications, and 
     to expand the Diabetes Prevention Program.
       Early Child Care Collaboratives.--The agreement provides an 
     increase for these activities.
       Epilepsy.--The agreement provides an increase for epilepsy 
     activities.
       Excessive Alcohol Use.--The agreement includes an increase 
     for the activities included in House Report 117-403.
       Farm-to-School.--The agreement continues $2,000,000 within 
     Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity for research and 
     education activities promoting healthy eating habits for 
     students. The agreement intends that these grants support 
     multi-agency and multi-organizational State farm to early 
     childhood programs with priority given to entities with 
     experience running farm to early childhood programs. The 
     agreement directs CDC to coordinate farm to early childhood 
     program efforts with the Office of Community Food Systems at 
     the Department of Agriculture.
       Food Allergies.--The agreement includes $2,000,000 for a 
     school-based effort to address food allergies and reduce 
     potentially fatal anaphylactic reactions.
       Heart Disease and Stroke.--The agreement provides an 
     increase for heart disease and stroke activities, including 
     $8,000,000 for implementation of the Cardiovascular Advances 
     in Research and Opportunities Legacy Act, of which $5,000,000 
     is to expand an existing, national sudden cardiac arrest 
     registry to capture data from all States and $3,000,000 is 
     for heart valve disease education and awareness. The 
     agreement includes an increase to strengthen and expand 
     evidence-based heart disease and stroke prevention activities 
     focused on high risk populations. The agreement also includes 
     increases for the WISEWOMAN program to be expanded to 
     additional States and for the Million Hearts initiative to 
     increase education and outreach.
       High Obesity Rate Counties.--In addition to the directives 
     outlined in House Report 117-403, the agreement continues to 
     support land grant universities in partnership with their 
     cooperative extensions for counties with an obesity 
     prevalence over 40 percent. CDC grantees are directed to work 
     with State and local public health departments and other 
     partners to support measurable outcomes through community and 
     population-level evidenced-based obesity intervention and 
     prevention programs. Funded projects should integrate 
     evidence-based policy, systems, and environmental approaches 
     to better understand and address the environmental and 
     societal implications of obesity.
       Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).--The agreement includes 
     an increase to advance IBD efforts.
       Lupus.--The agreement provides an increase for activities 
     to advance public health knowledge about lupus.
       Mississippi Delta Health Collaborative (MDHC).--The 
     agreement encourages CDC to build on its longstanding 
     investment in MDHC by working to replicate the work in 
     additional sites while maintaining the current strategy. The 
     agreement directs CDC to provide an update on these 
     activities in the fiscal year 2024 Congressional 
     Justification.
       Oral Health.--The agreement includes an increase for 
     efforts to reduce oral disease and provide effective 
     interventions.
       Prevention Research Centers.--The agreement provides an 
     increase to continue the national network conducting 
     prevention research and translating research results into 
     policy and public health practice that address local health 
     needs.
       Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health (REACH).--
     The agreement provides an increase to address racial and 
     ethnic health disparities, including the Good Health and 
     Wellness in Indian Country program.
       Reducing E-cigarette Use During Pregnancy.--The agreement 
     supports CDC's efforts to address tobacco use during 
     pregnancy and encourages CDC to include initiatives 
     specifically targeted at e-cigarette use during pregnancy, 
     including initiatives to raise awareness among patients and 
     clinicians about the risks of e-cigarette use during 
     pregnancy. CDC is encouraged to partner with other HHS 
     agencies to ensure pregnant women can access safe and 
     effective tobacco cessation services and medications. The 
     agreement requests an update on these activities in the 
     fiscal year 2024 Congressional Justification.
       Safe Motherhood and Infant Health.--The agreement builds on 
     the commitment made in the fiscal year 2022 bill by providing 
     an increase for this portfolio of programs to improve the 
     health of pregnant and postpartum

[[Page S8879]]

     women and their babies, including reducing disparities in 
     maternal and infant health outcomes. The agreement directs 
     CDC to use the funding increase to expand and increase 
     support for Maternal Mortality Review Committees (MMRCs), 
     Perinatal Quality Collaboratives (PQCs), and other programs 
     including Sudden Unexplained Infant Death (SUID) and the 
     Sudden Death in the Young (SDY) Case Registry. In addition to 
     the activities outlined in House Report 117-403, CDC is 
     directed to expand support for MMRCs and improve data 
     collection at the State level to create consistency in data 
     collection, analysis and reporting across State MMRCs. This 
     investment is necessary to provide accurate national 
     statistics on U.S. maternal mortality rates and inform data-
     driven actions to prevent these deaths. The agreement 
     requests CDC provide a report to the Committees within 90 
     days of enactment of this Act on barriers to effective and 
     consistent data collection and opportunities to improve 
     coordination among State MMRCs. CDC is also encouraged to 
     work with a national organization on educational materials 
     and peer support programs for patients on the impact of blood 
     disorders on maternal health. Additionally, the agreement 
     encourages CDC to prioritize funding to expand PQCs to 
     additional States and territories and provide increased 
     support to existing PQCs. The agreement requests an update on 
     the expansion of PQCs beyond the States currently funded, as 
     well as any barriers to expansion, including those created by 
     the COVID-19 pandemic. The agreement encourages CDC to 
     increase awareness through the PQCs of newer options and 
     technologies for postpartum hemorrhage management that have 
     the potential to reduce the need for transfusions, extended 
     hospital stays, and maternal harm. Finally, the agreement 
     directs CDC to expand the number of States and jurisdictions 
     participating in the monitoring and surveillance of SUID and 
     the SDY Case Registry to improve data collection. This data 
     works to identify, develop, and implement best practices to 
     prevent infant death, including practices to improve safe 
     sleep, in coordination with appropriate nonprofits.
       Skin Cancer Education and Prevention.--The agreement notes 
     concern with the growing number of people diagnosed with 
     preventable forms of skin cancer, which is now the most 
     commonly diagnosed cancer in the U.S. The agreement provides 
     an increase of $1,000,000 for skin cancer education and 
     prevention and encourages CDC to increase its collaboration 
     and partnership with local governments, business, health, 
     education, community, non-profit, and faith-based sectors.
       School Health.--The agreement provides an increase to 
     expand the number of States in the Healthy Schools program.
       Tobacco.--The agreement provides an increase to reduce 
     deaths and prevent chronic diseases, including addressing the 
     youth use of e-cigarettes.
       Vision and Eye Health.--The agreement includes an increase 
     and directs CDC to initiate efforts to update national 
     prevalence estimates on vision impairment and eye disease 
     through the use of the National Health and Nutrition 
     Examination Survey.


              BIRTH DEFECTS AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES

       The agreement provides $205,560,000 for Birth Defects and 
     Developmental Disabilities. Within this total, the agreement 
     includes the following amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              FY 2023
                     Budget Activity                         Agreement
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Birth Defects...........................................     $19,000,000
Fetal Death.............................................         900,000
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome..................................      11,500,000
Folic Acid..............................................       3,150,000
Infant Health...........................................       8,650,000
Autism..................................................      28,100,000
Disability & Health.....................................      45,500,000
Tourette Syndrome.......................................       2,500,000
Early Hearing Detection and Intervention................      10,760,000
Muscular Dystrophy......................................       7,500,000
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder................       1,900,000
Fragile X...............................................       2,000,000
Spina Bifida............................................       7,500,000
Congenital Heart........................................       8,250,000
Public Health Approach to Blood Disorders...............      10,400,000
Hemophilia Activities...................................       3,500,000
Hemophilia Treatment Centers............................       5,100,000
Thalassemia.............................................       2,100,000
Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome............................       4,250,000
Surveillance for Emerging Threats to Mothers and Babies.      23,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Autism.--The agreement includes an increase to expand the 
     Autism Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network 
     and to re-establish surveillance of cerebral palsy in at 
     least two ADDM sites.
       Congenital Heart Disease.--The agreement includes an 
     increase to further implement the screening, surveillance, 
     research, and awareness activities authorized by the 
     Congenital Heart Futures Reauthorization Act (P.L. 115-342).
       Disability and Health.--The agreement includes an increase 
     of $3,000,000 to continue to strengthen existing programs 
     that address healthy athletes and an increase of $1,000,000 
     to continue existing activities that improve physical 
     activity and fund health promotion for people with mobility 
     disabilities. In addition, the agreement includes an increase 
     of $2,500,000 and recommends CDC use the funds to encourage 
     partnership between national disability organizations and 
     institutions of higher education to conduct implementation 
     science research on health promotion, disease prevention, and 
     intervention strategies for people with disabilities.
       Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders.--The agreement provides 
     an increase to expand efforts related to fetal alcohol 
     spectrum disorders.
       Muscular Dystrophy.--The agreement provides an increase to 
     enhance Muscular Dystrophy research and disease surveillance 
     initiatives.
       Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS).--The agreement includes 
     an increase to support efforts to address the rise in NAS 
     resulting from the overuse of opioids and other related 
     substances during pregnancy, including research on opioid use 
     during pregnancy and related adverse outcomes from infancy 
     through childhood, and to identify best practices for care, 
     evaluation, and management to help children.
       Public Health Approach to Blood Disorders.--The agreement 
     includes an increase to expand sickle cell data collection 
     and analysis.
       Surveillance for Emerging Threats to Mothers and Babies 
     Network (SET-NET).--The agreement includes an increase to 
     expand the efforts and reach of SET-NET to detect and respond 
     to emerging threats to mothers and babies. The agreement 
     directs CDC to provide a briefing to the Committees on its 
     spend plan for this funding within 90 days of enactment of 
     this Act and an update on these activities in the fiscal year 
     2024 Congressional Justification. Finally, CDC was provided 
     additional funding in fiscal year 2019 to expand its Zika 
     surveillance to determine the long-term health impacts of 
     infants born to mothers infected with the Zika virus. The 
     agreement requests an update in the fiscal year 2024 
     Congressional Justification from this ongoing surveillance.
       Tourette Syndrome.--The agreement provides an increase and 
     directs CDC to continue to educate physicians, educators, 
     clinicians, allied professionals, and the general public 
     about the disorder and to improve scientific knowledge on 
     prevalence, risk factors, and co-occurring conditions of 
     Tourette Syndrome.


                   PUBLIC HEALTH SCIENTIFIC SERVICES

       The agreement provides a total of $754,497,000 for Public 
     Health Scientific Services. Within this total, the agreement 
     includes the following amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              FY 2023
                     Budget Activity                         Agreement
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Health Statistics.......................................    $187,397,000
Surveillance, Epidemiology, and Informatics.............     298,100,000
Advancing Laboratory Science............................      23,000,000
Public Health Data Modernization........................     175,000,000
Public Health Workforce.................................      71,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Advancing Laboratory Science.--The agreement provides an 
     increase to strengthen CDC's laboratory science and safety.
       National Center for Health Statistics.--The agreement 
     includes an increase to monitor the health of our Nation and 
     to make much-needed investments in the next generation of 
     surveys and products.
       National Neurological Conditions Surveillance System.--The 
     agreement provides a total of $5,000,000 within Surveillance, 
     Epidemiology, and Informatics to continue efforts on the two 
     initial conditions.
       Primary Immunodeficiencies.--The agreement provides 
     $3,500,000 for education, awareness, and genetic sequencing 
     surveillance related to primary immunodeficiencies.
       Public Health Data Modernization.--The agreement provides 
     an increase to advance the progress of this effort with 
     State, tribal, local, and territorial (STLT) partners. The 
     agreement urges CDC to work with representatives from STLT 
     health departments through a regular convening mechanism to 
     establish a public health data sharing process to ensure that 
     notifiable case data are reported to CDC during an emergency 
     response event in a timely and efficient manner that is the 
     least burdensome for STLT public health departments. This 
     process should include the use of an established minimal data 
     set and transmission via existing and automated reporting 
     mechanisms to the extent possible.
       Public Health Workforce.--The agreement provides an 
     increase to aid in the rebuilding and sustainment of the 
     public health workforce.


                          ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH

       The agreement provides $246,850,000 for Environmental 
     Health programs, which includes $229,850,000 in discretionary 
     appropriations and $17,000,000 in transfers from the PPH 
     Fund. Within this total, the agreement includes the following 
     amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              FY 2023
                     Budget Activity                         Agreement
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Environmental Health Laboratory.........................     $70,750,000
  Newborn Screening Quality Assurance Program...........      21,000,000
  Newborn Screening/Severe Combined Immunodeficiency           1,250,000
   Diseases.............................................
Safe Water..............................................       8,600,000
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Registry..................      10,000,000
Trevor's Law............................................       3,000,000
Climate and Health......................................      10,000,000
Environmental Health Activities.........................      21,000,000
Environmental and Health Outcome Tracking Network.......      34,000,000
Asthma..................................................      33,500,000
Childhood Lead Poisoning................................      51,000,000
Lead Exposure Registry..................................       5,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Asthma.--The agreement includes an increase for the 
     activities included in House Report 117-403.
       Childhood Lead Poisoning.--The agreement includes an 
     increase to support the expansion of direct CDC assistance 
     and funding to additional State and local public health 
     departments and to expand programmatic data capabilities.
       Newborn Screening.--The agreement includes an increase to 
     expand newborn screening efforts.

[[Page S8880]]

       Trevor's Law.--The agreement provides an increase to better 
     understand the relationship between environmental exposures 
     and pediatric cancer, and to build capacity to conduct cancer 
     investigations in accordance with Trevor's Law (Public Law 
     114-182).
       Vessel Sanitation.--The agreement includes $4,000,000 to 
     support the critical public health functions of the vessel 
     sanitation program, and reiterates the requested information 
     in House Report 117-403. The agreement expects CDC to resume 
     user fee collections in fiscal year 2023 and to provide an 
     update on what is needed to sustain future operations to the 
     Committees within 120 days of enactment of this Act.


                     INJURY PREVENTION AND CONTROL

       The agreement provides $761,379,000 for Injury Prevention 
     and Control activities. Within this total, the agreement 
     includes the following amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              FY 2023
                     Budget Activity                         Agreement
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Domestic Violence and Sexual Violence...................      38,200,000
  Child Maltreatment....................................       7,250,000
  Child Sexual Abuse Prevention.........................       3,000,000
Youth Violence Prevention...............................      18,100,000
Domestic Violence Community Projects....................       7,500,000
Rape Prevention.........................................      61,750,000
Suicide Prevention......................................      30,000,000
Adverse Childhood Experiences...........................       9,000,000
National Violent Death Reporting System.................      24,500,000
Traumatic Brain Injury..................................       8,250,000
Elderly Falls...........................................       3,050,000
Drowning................................................       2,000,000
Injury Prevention Activities............................      29,950,000
Opioid Overdose Prevention and Surveillance.............     505,579,000
Injury Control Research Centers.........................      11,000,000
Firearm Injury and Mortality Prevention Research........      12,500,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Adolescent Mental Health.--The agreement urges CDC to 
     establish a program that leverages existing CDC activities 
     dedicated to adolescent mental health to improve adolescent 
     mental wellbeing and advance equity, with a focus on 
     culturally responsive prevention and early intervention. In 
     collaboration with centers across CDC, HHS, the Department of 
     Education, youth, experts, and advocates, CDC is encouraged 
     to coordinate the development and implementation of national 
     goals and a national strategy to improve adolescent mental 
     wellbeing that align with the objectives outlined in Healthy 
     People 2030. Special consideration should be made for 
     underserved communities to ensure their voices are 
     represented in decision-making and idea generating. In 
     addition, the agreement urges CDC to conduct applied research 
     and evaluation studies to improve the implementation of 
     evidence-based policies and community-based practices that 
     advance the national strategy and promote adolescent mental 
     health.
       Adverse Childhood Experiences.--The agreement includes an 
     increase to expand efforts, including technical assistance to 
     States.
       Domestic Violence and Sexual Violence.--The agreement 
     provides $1,000,000 to collect data on the connection between 
     brain injuries and domestic and sexual violence, and to 
     implement a data collection project that follows up on and 
     operates under CDC's National Intimate Partner and Sexual 
     Violence Survey or other appropriate survey mechanism and 
     asks questions about the prevalence and circumstances 
     surrounding brain injuries.
       Core State Injury Prevention Program (Core SIPP).--The 
     agreement includes an increase of $1,000,000 to enhance 
     efforts to identify and respond to injury threats with data-
     driven public health actions.
       Firearm Injury and Mortality Prevention Research.--The 
     agreement includes funding to conduct research on firearm 
     injury and mortality prevention. Given violence and suicide 
     have a number of causes, the agreement recommends the CDC 
     take a comprehensive approach to studying these underlying 
     causes and evidence-based methods of prevention of injury, 
     including crime prevention. All grantees under this section 
     will be required to fulfill requirements around open data, 
     open code, pre-registration of research projects, and open 
     access to research articles consistent with the National 
     Science Foundation's open science principles. The Director of 
     CDC is to report to the Committees within 30 days of 
     enactment of this Act on implementation schedules and 
     procedures for grant awards, which strive to ensure that such 
     awards support ideologically and politically unbiased 
     research projects.
       Injury Control Research Centers.--The agreement includes an 
     increase to increase the number of awards for multi-
     disciplinary research on the causes, outcomes, and prevention 
     of injuries and violence.
       Opioid or Other Drug Use and Overdose Prevention.--The 
     agreement includes an increase to enhance activities and 
     encourages CDC to ensure that funding for opioid and 
     stimulant abuse and overdose prevention reaches local 
     communities to advance local understanding of the opioid 
     overdose epidemic and to scale-up prevention and response 
     activities. In addition to the activities included in House 
     Report 117-403, the agreement encourages CDC to include 
     community member naloxone education as a strategy for local 
     community overdose prevention funds. The agreement continues 
     to support rigorous monitoring, evaluation and improvements 
     in data quality and monitoring at a national level, including 
     data collection and analysis on overdose deaths. CDC is 
     directed to continue expansion of case-level syndromic 
     surveillance data, improvements of interventions that monitor 
     prescribing and dispensing practices, better timeliness and 
     quality of morbidity and mortality data, as well as the 
     enhancement of efforts with medical examiners and coroner 
     offices. The agreement urges CDC to continue to maximize the 
     use of State-based Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs 
     (PDMPs) as a public health tool to assist in clinical 
     decision-making and surveillance. CDC is further directed to 
     continue to expand an innovative model to coordinate care for 
     high-risk patients receiving opioid treatment and encouraged 
     to work with the Office of the National Coordinator for 
     Health Information Technology to enhance integration of PDMPs 
     and electronic health records.
       Opioid Prescribing Guidelines.--The agreement applauds 
     CDC's efforts to update the Clinical Practice Guideline for 
     Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain, for use by primary care 
     clinicians for chronic pain in outpatient settings outside of 
     active cancer treatment, palliative care, and end-of-life 
     care. The agreement directs CDC to continue its work 
     educating patients and providers, and to encourage uptake and 
     use of the Guidelines. The agreement urges CDC to continue 
     coordination with other Federal agencies in implementation 
     and related updates in safe prescribing practices to ensure 
     consistent, high-quality care standards across the Federal 
     government.
       Public Safety Officer Suicide Reporting System.--The 
     agreement continues funding for the activities described in 
     the Helping Emergency Responders Overcome Act of 2020, as 
     directed in Public Law 116-260.
       Suicide Prevention.--The agreement includes an increase and 
     in addition to the direction included in House Report 117-
     403, the agreement directs CDC to expand its comprehensive 
     suicide prevention program to additional States and develop a 
     plan for integrating its Emergency Department Surveillance of 
     Nonfatal Suicide Related Outcomes pilot to collect real-time 
     data on non-fatal suicide related outcomes and self-harm 
     behavior into the program. Effective and faster data 
     collection is imperative to suicide prevention efforts so 
     that risk factors can be evaluated, high-risk populations can 
     be identified and prioritized, and new and more efficient 
     prevention strategies can be implemented.
       Traumatic Brain Injury.--The agreement provides an increase 
     to initiate concussion surveillance, particularly among 
     children and youth.
       Youth Violence Prevention.--The agreement provides an 
     increase to support violence interventions and encourages CDC 
     to fund a range of interventions, including programs that 
     provide de-escalation and conflict mitigation skills. CDC is 
     urged to scale up existing partnerships with organizations 
     that have demonstrated success in reducing violence and its 
     risk factors, including those involving healthcare and 
     community outreach organizations, as well as supporting 
     academic-community collaborations and research to advance the 
     science and practice of violence prevention, while reducing 
     inequities from which such violence stems.


     NATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH (NIOSH)

       The agreement provides a total of $362,800,000 for NIOSH in 
     discretionary appropriations. Within this total, the 
     agreement includes the following amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              FY 2023
                     Budget Activity                         Agreement
------------------------------------------------------------------------
National Occupational Research Agenda...................    $119,500,000
  Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing....................      29,000,000
Education and Research Centers..........................      32,000,000
Personal Protective Technology..........................      23,000,000
Mining Research.........................................      66,500,000
National Mesothelioma Registry and Tissue Bank..........       1,200,000
Firefighter Cancer Registry.............................       5,500,000
Other Occupational Safety and Health Research...........     115,100,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing.--The agreement includes 
     an increase to expand efforts to protect workers in this 
     sector.
       Coal Workers' Health Surveillance Program Mobile Medical 
     Unit.--The agreement directs CDC to prioritize the 
     maintenance of mobile medical units and urges CDC to consider 
     the purchase of an additional mobile medical unit to improve 
     access to screening for miners, as early screening and 
     detection of black lung can improve health outcomes and 
     reduce mortality.
       Education and Research Centers (ERCs).--The agreement 
     includes an increase to support efforts to reduce work-
     related injuries and illness. In addition, the agreement 
     directs NIOSH to increase support for new and existing ERCs 
     to support education and training programs for undergraduate 
     and graduate students, particularly in Environmental and 
     Industrial Hygiene, Occupational Health Nursing, Occupational 
     Medicine Residency, and Occupational Safety and Health 
     Engineering.
       Firefighter Cancer Registry.--The agreement includes an 
     increase for this voluntary, anonymous registry system.
       Mining Research.--The agreement provides an increase and 
     directs $2,000,000 of this increase to support research and 
     outreach activities to prevent work-related illness, injury 
     and death in the western U.S., with an increased focus on 
     potentially underrepresented and disproportionately impacted 
     workers. CDC is also urged to increase support for research 
     on exposure assessment, behavioral science, and mental health 
     in the mining industry. Additionally, the agreement directs 
     $2,000,000 of this increase to expand grant opportunities to 
     universities with graduate programs in mining and explosives 
     engineering to fund additional research initiatives in 
     automation, robotics, and intelligent mining systems to 
     improve workplace safety and health in U.S. mining 
     operations.
       Occupational Injury and Illness.--The agreement does not 
     include the directive for the report as described in House 
     Report 117-403.

[[Page S8881]]

       Radiation Exposure in Medical Procedures.--The agreement 
     requests the report directed in House Report 117-403 to 
     reflect consultation with EPA and FDA.
       Total Worker Health.--The agreement provides an increase of 
     $1,000,000 to expand the program.


                             GLOBAL HEALTH

       The agreement provides $692,843,000 for Global Health 
     activities. Within this total, the agreement includes the 
     following amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              FY 2023
                     Budget Activity                         Agreement
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Global AIDS Program.....................................    $128,921,000
Global Tuberculosis.....................................      11,722,000
Polio Eradication.......................................     180,000,000
Measles and Other Vaccine Preventable Diseases..........      50,000,000
Parasitic Diseases and Malaria..........................      29,000,000
Global Public Health Protection.........................     293,200,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Global Public Health Protection.--The agreement includes an 
     increase and recognizes CDC's unique role in supporting 
     public health capacity development.
       Parasitic Diseases and Malaria.--The agreement includes an 
     increase to enhance parasitic diseases and malaria 
     activities.
       Polio Eradication.--The agreement includes an increase to 
     support CDC activities related to wild poliovirus and 
     vaccine-derived polio surveillance, vaccine procurement, and 
     outbreak response. CDC is urged to continue to provide 
     technical assistance to countries for polio immunization 
     campaigns, conduct environmental surveillance of polio 
     viruses to ensure prompt detection and to prevent potential 
     outbreaks of paralytic polio disease.
       Population-based Surveillance Platforms.--The agreement 
     includes $7,000,000, an increase of $3,000,000 from within 
     the increase for Global Public Health Protection, to support 
     existing longitudinal population-based infectious disease 
     surveillance platforms that enable comparative analysis 
     between urban and rural populations in the developing world.
       Soil Transmitted Helminth (STH) and Related Diseases of 
     Poverty.--The agreement includes $1,500,000 to extend the 
     currently funded CDC projects aimed at surveillance, source 
     remediation and clinical care to assess and reduce STH or 
     other parasitic infections related to health disparities.
       Tuberculosis.--The agreement includes an increase to 
     advance tuberculosis prevention, diagnosis, and treatment 
     efforts.


                PUBLIC HEALTH PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE

       The agreement provides $883,200,000 for public health 
     preparedness and response activities. Within this total, the 
     agreement includes the following amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              FY 2023
                     Budget Activity                         Agreement
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Public Health Emergency Preparedness Cooperative            $735,000,000
 Agreement..............................................
Academic Centers for Public Health Preparedness.........       9,200,000
CDC Preparedness and Response...........................     139,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       CDC Preparedness and Response.--The agreement provides 
     $21,900,000 in the Public Health and Social Services 
     Emergency Fund for HHS Protect for the activities directed in 
     House Report 117-403.
       Public Health Emergency Preparedness Cooperative 
     Agreement.--The agreement includes an increase for 
     cooperative agreement awards.


                        BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES

       The agreement provides $40,000,000 in discretionary budget 
     authority.
       Buildings and Facilities.--The agreement includes funding 
     to make progress on CDC's backlog of maintenance and repairs, 
     including at its Atlanta campuses. The agreement supports the 
     completion of the Atlanta Masterplan Build Out.
       Mine Safety Research Facility.--The agreement notes bill 
     language and funding to support the design and construction 
     of a mine safety research facility to replace the Lake Lynn 
     Experimental Mine and Laboratory were provided in fiscal 
     years 2021 and 2022. The agreement requests the continuation 
     of quarterly updates on progress in the construction of the 
     facility, costs incurred, and unanticipated challenges which 
     may affect timeline for total costs until completion of the 
     facility. Further, upon CDC's completion of the purchase of 
     property for the new mine safety research facility, the 
     agreement directs HHS to fund the design and construction of 
     the facility from the Nonrecurring Expenses Fund.


                          CDC-WIDE ACTIVITIES

       The agreement provides $723,570,000 for CDC-wide 
     activities, which includes $563,570,000 in discretionary 
     appropriations and $160,000,000 in transfers from the PPH 
     Fund. Within this total, the agreement includes the following 
     amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              FY 2023
                     Budget Activity                         Agreement
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Preventive Health and Health Services Block Grant.......    $160,000,000
Public Health Leadership and Support....................     128,570,000
Infectious Disease Rapid Response Reserve Fund..........      35,000,000
Public Health Infrastructure and Capacity...............     350,000,000
Center for Forecasting and Outbreak Analytics...........      50,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Infectious Disease Rapid Response Reserve Fund (Reserve 
     Fund).--The agreement includes an increase toward the 
     replenishment of this fund to ensure that CDC is positioned 
     to respond quickly to an imminent public health emergency. 
     CDC is directed to provide a spend plan in conjunction with 
     the Congressional notification required 15 days in advance of 
     any transfer or obligation. The spend plan shall include 
     estimates of anticipated uses of funds, including estimated 
     personnel and administrative costs, disaggregated by program, 
     project, or activity. CDC is required to provide quarterly 
     reports, pursuant to P.L. 115-245, and the agreement directs 
     CDC to make every effort to provide such reports on-time. 
     Additionally, CDC is directed to provide information in each 
     quarterly report on all amounts available in the Reserve Fund 
     for the current fiscal year and the preceding two fiscal 
     years, including (1) obligations by object class categories; 
     (2) with respect to such obligations, the notification to 
     which it relates; and (3) the total amount unobligated in the 
     Reserve Fund.
       Local Health Departments.--The agreement notes that Federal 
     funding intended for both State and local health departments 
     does not consistently reach local health departments beyond 
     those directly funded. The agreement encourages CDC to 
     require States to fund local health departments when 
     programmatically appropriate.
       Public Health Infrastructure and Capacity.--The agreement 
     provides an increase of $150,000,000 for this disease-
     agnostic resource. The agreement directs that no less than 70 
     percent of this funding be awarded to health departments.
       Public Health Leadership and Support.--The agreement 
     includes an increase to support CDC's foundational public 
     health activities and to facilitate partnerships. The 
     agreement commends CDC for its commitment to the development 
     of a diverse healthcare and public health workforce. The 
     agreement provides an increase of $3,500,000 to expand the 
     John R. Lewis CDC Undergraduate Public Health Scholars 
     Program, including the opportunity for more HBCUs to 
     participate, as well as tribal colleges and universities. In 
     addition, the agreement provides $5,000,000 to establish an 
     Office of Rural Health (ORH). The ORH will enhance the 
     implementation of CDC's rural health portfolio, coordinate 
     efforts across CDC programs, and develop a strategic plan for 
     rural health at CDC that maps the way forward both 
     administratively and programmatically. The agreement 
     encourages ORH to accelerate innovation, make scientific and 
     communication resources tailored to current rural public 
     health needs, build and improve public health functions and 
     service delivery and provide leadership in matters of public 
     health infrastructure.

                  National Institutes of Health (NIH)

       The agreement provides $47,459,000,000 for NIH, including 
     $1,085,000,000 from the 21st Century Cures Act (P.L.114-255, 
     Cures Act), an increase of $2,500,000,000, or 5.6 percent, 
     above the fiscal year 2022 enacted level. The agreement 
     provides a funding increase of no less than 3.8 percent above 
     the fiscal year 2022 enacted level to every Institute and 
     Center (IC). Per the Cures Act, $216,000,000 is transferred 
     to the National Cancer Institute (NCI) for cancer research; 
     $225,000,000 to the National Institute of Neurological 
     Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) and $225,000,000 to the National 
     Institute on Mental Health (NIMH) for the BRAIN Initiative; 
     and $419,000,000 to the Office of the Director (OD) for the 
     All of Us precision medicine initiative.
       The agreement directs NIH to include updates on the 
     following research, projects, and programs in the fiscal year 
     2024 Congressional Justification: metastatic breast cancer; 
     NCI's plans to update the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End 
     Results Registry; pulmonary fibrosis; cellular immunity; and 
     opportunities to enhance childhood cancer research efforts, 
     including coordinating efforts already underway through the 
     Trans-NIH Pediatric Research Consortium.


                    NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE (NCI)

       Cancer Moonshot.--The agreement directs NCI to provide a 
     report to the Committees within 180 days of enactment of this 
     Act describing the steps it will take to advance efforts to 
     develop a robust pipeline of new treatments for recalcitrant 
     cancers, defined in the Recalcitrant Cancer Research Act of 
     2012 (P.L. 112-239) as those with a five-year survival rate 
     below 50 percent.
       Childhood Cancer Data Initiative (CCDI).--The agreement 
     includes no less than $50,000,000 for the CCDI, including no 
     less than $750,000 to continue to support enhancement of the 
     CCDI Molecular Characterization Initiative.
       Childhood Cancer STAR Act.--The agreement includes no less 
     than $30,000,000 for continued implementation of sections of 
     the Childhood Cancer Survivorship, Treatment, Access, and 
     Research (STAR) Act (P.L. 115-180). The agreement directs NIH 
     to provide an update in the fiscal year 2024 Congressional 
     Justification on opportunities to enhance childhood cancer 
     research efforts and the actions NCI has taken to ensure 
     pediatric cancer expertise is included on all panels, as 
     appropriate.
       Colorectal Cancer.--The agreement directs NCI to include an 
     update in the fiscal year 2024 Congressional Justification on 
     opportunities to advance progress against colorectal cancer 
     with an emphasis on: (1) opportunities to develop more 
     effective therapeutics; (2) rising rates in people under the 
     age of 50, including rapidly increasing rates in the 20 to 39 
     year old age range; and (3) the persistent health disparities 
     in prevalence, screening, and outcomes. The update should 
     describe how NCI plans to play a role in addressing these 
     challenges and what existing and future innovative research 
     opportunities can be leveraged to advance progress.
       Deadliest Cancers.--The agreement directs NIH to identify 
     the greatest obstacles and most promising research 
     opportunities to advance progress against each of the 
     deadliest

[[Page S8882]]

     cancers in the fiscal year 2024 Congressional Justification.
       Native American Cancer Outcomes.--The agreement continues 
     to be concerned that Native Americans experience overall 
     cancer incidence and mortality rates that are strikingly 
     higher than non-Native populations, and encourages NCI to 
     expand research efforts to reduce American Indian cancer 
     disparities and improve outcomes, specifically by supporting 
     efforts to develop durable capacity for tribally engaged 
     cancer disparities research through an integrated program of 
     research, education, outreach, and clinical access.
       NCI Paylines.--The agreement provides an increase of 
     $150,000,000 for NCI to prioritize competing grants and to 
     sustain commitments to continuing grants.
       Pancreatic Cancer.--The agreement encourages NCI to 
     leverage the investment in NCI's National Clinical Trials 
     Network to accelerate the survival rate for pancreatic cancer 
     patients by maximizing the knowledge gained from every trial 
     and suggests that trials for pancreatic cancer include 
     parallel and concurrent correlative studies, as appropriate, 
     to better understand what treatments work best for which 
     patients. The agreement directs NCI to consider ways to 
     maximize learning from pancreatic cancer trials and provide 
     an update in the fiscal year 2024 Congressional Justification 
     on next steps towards this goal.
       Radiopharmaceutical Development.--The agreement directs 
     NIH, in conjunction with the Department of Energy, to provide 
     an update in the fiscal year 2024 Congressional Justification 
     on the impact shortages of medical isotopes and 
     radiopharmaceuticals have on the ability to conduct cancer 
     research, including an analysis of infrastructure necessary 
     to do so.


           NATIONAL HEART, LUNG, AND BLOOD INSTITUTE (NHLBI)

       Cardiovascular Disease (CVD).--Recognizing that CVD remains 
     the leading cause of death and most expensive condition in 
     the United States, the agreement supports cutting-edge 
     cardiovascular research and drug discovery across the 
     disciplines of medicine, immunology, imaging, chemistry, 
     biomedical engineering, physics, statistics, mathematics, and 
     entrepreneurship to design new therapies and strategies that 
     are more effective. The agreement directs NHLBI to highlight 
     the areas with the greatest potential for transformative 
     progress in CVD research in the fiscal year 2024 
     Congressional Justification and to prioritize funding that 
     reduces cardiovascular disease among the hardest-hit--African 
     Americans living in the rural South.
       Community Engagement Alliance Against COVID-19 Disparities 
     (CEAL) Initiative.--The agreement includes $30,000,000 for 
     the CEAL initiative, $10,000,000 above the fiscal year 2022 
     enacted level.
       Congenital Heart Disease (CHD).--The agreement encourages 
     NHLBI to prioritize CHD activities outlined in its strategic 
     plan and directs NIH to provide an update in the fiscal year 
     2024 Congressional Justification on steps being taken to 
     close research gaps.
       Health Disparities Research for Methamphetamine-related 
     Cardiovascular Diseases.--The agreement encourages NHLBI to 
     work with NIDA to examine the cardiovascular effects of 
     methamphetamine misuse and implications for treatment in 
     vulnerable and minority populations.
       Lung Injury.--The agreement urges NHLBI to strengthen the 
     nation's ability to respond to respiratory health threats 
     with increased support for research into basic science and 
     the mechanisms of lung injury and repair, as well as clinical 
     intervention trials addressing both acute and chronic lung 
     diseases.
       Valvular Heart Disease Research.--The agreement provides 
     $20,000,000 for research into the causation of and risk 
     factors for valvular heart disease. Such research should 
     focus on the use of advanced technological imaging and other 
     relevant methods to generate data related to valvular heart 
     disease, and assessing potential risk factors for sudden 
     cardiac arrest or sudden cardiac death from valvular heart 
     disease. Additionally, the agreement supports efforts by NIH 
     to convene a workshop of subject matter experts and 
     stakeholders to identify research needs and opportunities to 
     develop recommendations for the identification and treatment 
     of individuals with mitral valve prolapse, including 
     individuals who may be at risk for sudden cardiac arrest 
     or sudden cardiac death.


     NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF DENTAL AND CRANIOFACIAL RESEARCH (NIDCR)

       National Dental Practice-Based Research Network.--The 
     agreement recommends that NIDCR continues funding support of 
     National Dental Practice-Based Research Networks.
       Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD).--The agreement 
     encourages NIDCR to maintain a patient-centered approach in 
     the implementation of the TMD--IMPACT Concept and to seek 
     collaborators from other government agencies such as the 
     Department of Veterans' Affairs (VA) and the Department of 
     Defense (DOD), as well as from within NIH itself. The 
     agreement directs NIH to provide an update in the fiscal year 
     2024 Congressional Justification on efforts to implement the 
     next phase of the initiative, including the recruitment of 
     other NIH ICs as partners, the role of the patient 
     perspective, and NIDCR's use of the National Academies of 
     Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) Report on TMDs 
     and the TMJ Patient-led Roundtable.


   NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF DIABETES AND DIGESTIVE AND KIDNEY DISEASES 
                                (NIDDK)

       Diabetes.--Consistent with the fiscal year 2023 budget 
     request, the agreement includes $8,550,000 to restore cuts to 
     the mandatory Special Diabetes Program that result from 
     Budget Control Act sequestration. Further, given the growing 
     prevalence of diabetes, the agreement is concerned that 
     additional research is needed to determine how to improve the 
     treatment of a common complication, diabetic foot ulcers to 
     reduce amputations, and urges NIDDK to support such efforts. 
     Further, given the aging population, the agreement urges 
     NIDDK to work with NIA to explore the relationship between 
     diabetes and neurocognitive conditions, such as dementia and 
     Alzheimer's disease, in racially and ethnically diverse 
     populations.
       Dietary Supplements and Liver Injury.--The agreement 
     strongly encourages NIDDK to provide safety and quality 
     information on dietary supplements as it relates to drug-
     induced liver injury.
       Hepatitis B.--The agreement applauds the NIH for its work 
     to update the Strategic Plan for Trans-NIH Research to Cure 
     Hepatitis B and urges that the update identify what has been 
     learned since the plan was first released and what additional 
     research is needed to find a cure. The agreement supports 
     efforts to create common resource services and materials for 
     the research community and further urges that targeted calls 
     for research, based on the needs as identified in the updated 
     Plan, be issued and funded in fiscal year 2023 and beyond.
       Kidney Disease.--The agreement applauds recent changes to 
     clinical practice in the diagnosis of kidney disease and 
     concurs with recommendations that additional resources should 
     be devoted to development of new markers for estimating 
     kidney function.
       Pain Management Research.--The agreement includes an 
     increase of $5,000,000 for NIDDK to support additional 
     research in this area as described in the fiscal year 2023 
     budget request.


    NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS AND STROKE (NINDS)

       Alzheimer's Disease and Alzheimer's Disease-Related 
     Dementias (AD/ADRD).--The agreement includes an increase of 
     $226,000,000 across NIH for AD/ADRD research, including an 
     increase of $75,000,000 in NINDS and an increase of 
     $151,000,000 in NIA.
       Developmental Dyspraxia.--The agreement commends the work 
     NINDS does to support research on developmental disorders, 
     such as developmental dyspraxia, aimed at learning more about 
     these disorders and finding ways to prevent and treat them.
       Frontotemporal Degeneration (FTD) Research.--The agreement 
     encourages NIH to continue to support research to identify 
     and validate biomarkers for FTD and other neurodegenerative 
     diseases among diverse cohorts. The agreement also urges NIH 
     to support efforts to better understand the social 
     determinants of health that lead to inequity in access to 
     diagnosis and care for FTD and other dementias so that new 
     treatments and best practices in care will be available to 
     all, regardless of age, racial, ethnic, cultural, 
     socioeconomic, and geographic background. Equally critical is 
     the development of a data biosphere that enhances secure 
     sharing of clinical and research data and biological samples 
     for FTD. The agreement encourages NIH to find ways to support 
     better communication across researchers, and between clinical 
     science and broader society, to ensure that research advances 
     have maximum effect on improving health. The agreement urges 
     NIH to continue to advance regulatory science and develop 
     innovative clinical trial designs that recruit diverse 
     populations so that potential therapies can be effectively 
     tested.
       Opioids, Stimulants, and Pain Management.--The agreement 
     includes no less than $280,295,000 in NINDS for the HEAL 
     Initiative, $10,000,000 above the fiscal year 2022 enacted 
     level. The agreement encourages NINDS to continue its efforts 
     through the HEAL initiative in fiscal year 2023, with a focus 
     on grant opportunities to support research and education to 
     improve outcomes for people with both chronic pain and 
     addiction in diverse settings across the United States, 
     particularly those located in areas with high incidence of 
     people living with chronic pain.
       Undiagnosed Diseases Network (UDN).--The agreement includes 
     $18,000,000 to fund the UDN and directs the continuation of 
     the coordinating center, all clinical sites, DNA sequencing 
     core, central biorepository, model organisms screening 
     center, and other necessary testing in the pursuit of 
     diagnoses, including but not limited to: metabolomics, 
     infectious and toxic exposures, and immune abnormalities.


     NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF ALLERGY AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES (NIAID)

       Centers for Research in Emerging Infectious Diseases 
     (CREID).--NIAID works with partners in 30 countries to 
     understand how and where viruses and other pathogens can 
     emerge to develop diagnostic tests and treatments. The 
     agreement urges NIAID to ensure the CREID Network is 
     sufficiently supported to coordinate and conduct research on, 
     and active surveillance for, emerging pathogens.
       Consortium of Food Allergy Research (CoFAR).--The agreement 
     includes $12,100,000, an increase of $3,000,000 above the 
     fiscal year 2022 enacted level, for CoFAR to expand its 
     clinical research network to add new centers of excellence in 
     food allergy

[[Page S8883]]

     clinical care and to select such centers from those with 
     proven expertise in food allergy research.
       Multidisciplinary Grants for Vector-borne Disease 
     Research.--The agreement encourages NIAID to support multi-
     year awards for multidisciplinary research on vector-borne 
     diseases. As appropriate, such awards may leverage research 
     efforts by other government agencies, including, but not 
     limited to, Department of Agriculture programs on vector-
     borne diseases, as well as surveillance efforts, such as 
     those supported by CDC. Priority shall be given to grants 
     focused on vector-borne diseases requiring pathogen 
     biosafety levels 2 and 3.
       Regional Biocontainment Laboratories (RBLs).--The agreement 
     provides $52,000,000 to ensure the 12 RBLs for biomedical 
     research requiring biosafety level 3 (BSL-3) containment are 
     prepared to assist national, State, and local public health 
     efforts in the event of a bioterrorism or infectious disease 
     emergency. Of this amount, the agreement directs that no less 
     than $1,000,000 shall be provided to each of the 12 RBLs to 
     support the maintenance of a capable research workforce, 
     facilities, and equipment. The agreement directs that the 
     remaining funding shall go to the 12 RBLs to: (1) support 
     research on biodefense, emerging infectious disease agents, 
     and other infectious disease threats to global public health; 
     (2) train new researchers; (3) maintain a workforce skilled 
     in BSL-3 research; and (4) establish best practices for the 
     safe, effective, and efficient conduct of research in BSL-3 
     facilities.
       Responding to Infectious Diseases.--The agreement provides 
     no less than $565,000,000, an increase of $25,000,000 above 
     the fiscal year 2022 enacted level, to support NIAID research 
     to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and the training of 
     new investigators to improve AMR research capacity as 
     outlined in the 2020-2025 National Action Plan to Combat 
     Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria. The agreement directs NIAID to 
     work with other HHS agencies to provide the annual briefing 
     described under the section of the explanatory statement 
     dealing with the Office of the Secretary within 30 days of 
     enactment of this Act and every succeeding annual 
     Appropriations Act.
       Universal Flu Vaccine.--The agreement includes 
     $270,000,000, an increase of $25,000,000 above the fiscal 
     year 2022 enacted level. Rather than the narrative summary it 
     provided in May 2022, going forward, the agreement directs 
     NIAID to provide a dashboard cataloging and describing the 
     key trials and programs it is supporting with these funds, 
     including sample sizes, milestones, objectives, and outcomes, 
     with the first such report due within 90 days of enactment of 
     this Act.


         NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF GENERAL MEDICAL SCIENCES (NIGMS)

       Health Disparities Research.--The agreement includes an 
     increase of $5,000,000 for NIGMS to support research related 
     to identifying and reducing health disparities.
       Increasing Diversity in Biomedical Research.--The agreement 
     provides a targeted increase of $10,000,000 for programs like 
     the Maximizing Opportunities for Scientific and Academic 
     Independent Careers program and the Minority Access to 
     Research Careers undergraduate programs.
       Institutional Development Awards (IDeA).--The agreement 
     provides $425,956,000 for IDeA, $15,503,000 above the fiscal 
     year 2022 enacted level. The agreement opposes any efforts to 
     change eligibility for the IDeA program to a system that 
     would be based on States' populations.


  EUNICE KENNEDY SHRIVER NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF CHILD HEALTH AND HUMAN 
                          DEVELOPMENT (NICHD)

       Angelman Syndrome (AS).--AS is a rare neurogenetic disorder 
     that affects approximately one in 15,000 people--
     approximately 500,000 individuals worldwide. Individuals with 
     AS have an average life expectancy but require continuous 
     care and are unable to live independently. The agreement 
     urges NICHD to expand funding for basic, clinical, and 
     translational research into the mechanics of Angelman 
     Syndrome, identify early diagnostic markers, and develop new 
     treatment methods.
       ASXL Syndromes.--Bohring-Opitz Syndrome (ASXL1 gene), 
     Shashi-Pena Syndrome (ASXL2 gene), and Bainbridge-Ropers 
     Syndrome (ASXL3 gene) are three ultra-rare neurogenetic 
     disorders, with a combined number of individuals diagnosed 
     globally at 500. Those diagnosed, primarily children, 
     experience global delays, gastrointestinal complications, 
     delayed or absent speech, and autism-like symptoms. The 
     agreement urges NICHD to expand funding for basic, clinical, 
     and translational research into the mechanics of the ASXL 
     Syndromes, identify early diagnostic methods, and develop new 
     treatment methods.
       Cerebral Palsy (CP).--The agreement encourages NIH to 
     continue to prioritize and invest in research on CP and to 
     focus on basic and translational discoveries, as well as 
     implementation, observational, and clinical studies aimed at 
     early detection and intervention, comparative effectiveness, 
     and functional outcomes. The agreement encourages NIH to 
     support greater investment in research focused on the areas 
     in need of growth, as outlined in the Strategic Plan on 
     Cerebral Palsy Research, including research on lifespan 
     issues to address the needs of transition-age youth and 
     adults with CP, and research to support the development and 
     delivery of new and improved screening tools, treatments, and 
     interventions. The agreement also encourages NIH to consider 
     research opportunities focusing on the motor and health 
     benefits of physical activity specifically for individuals 
     with CP across all Gross Motor Functional Classification 
     levels, which is vital to help prevent chronic disease and 
     premature aging.
       Endometriosis.--The agreement strongly urges NIH to 
     increase funding to expand basic, clinical, and translational 
     research into the mechanics of endometriosis, identify early 
     diagnostic markers, and develop new treatment methods.
       Health Impacts on Children of Technology and Social Media 
     Use.--The agreement includes no less than $15,000,000 for 
     this activity, as described in House Report 117-403.
       Impact of COVID-19 on Children.--The agreement includes an 
     increase of $2,500,000 for NICHD to support additional 
     research into multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children 
     (MIS-C) and other ways in which COVID-19 affects children.
       Impact of COVID-19 on Pregnant and Lactating Women.--The 
     agreement includes an increase of $3,000,000, the same as the 
     fiscal year 2023 budget request, to support research on the 
     effects of COVID-19 on pregnancy, lactation, and postpartum 
     health with a focus on individuals from racial and ethnic 
     minority groups.
       Implementing a Maternal Health and Pregnancy Outcomes 
     Vision for Everyone (IMPROVE) Initiative.--The agreement 
     includes no less than $43,400,000 for this activity.
       Uterine Fibroids.--The agreement encourages NICHD to expand 
     research related to uterine fibroids etiology, prevention, 
     diagnosis, disparities, and treatment.


          NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SCIENCES

       Additional Research.--The agreement includes an increase of 
     $40,000,000 to support research on a wide range of health 
     conditions, which may include infectious disease, and chronic 
     conditions such as asthma, mental health, and health 
     disparities.
       Environmental Exposures and Cancer in Firefighters.--The 
     agreement encourages NIH and CDC/NIOSH to continue their 
     efforts to better understand the cancer risks firefighters 
     may experience, including efforts to measure environmental 
     exposures in firefighters and determine the mechanisms that 
     lead to increased cancer incidence, morbidity, and mortality. 
     The agreement also encourages NIH to continue to support 
     research to improve health equity among firefighters to 
     evaluate potential differences in exposures and risk.


                   national institute on aging (nia)

       Alzheimer's Disease and Alzheimer's Disease-Related 
     Dementias (AD/ADRD).--The agreement includes an increase of 
     $226,000,000 across NIH for AD/ADRD research, including an 
     increase $151,000,000 in NIA and an increase of $75,000,000 
     in NINDS, ensuring it remains the largest single effort of 
     its kind within the agency. The agreement directs NIA, 
     working with NINDS, to enter into an agreement with NASEM 
     within 60 days of enactment of this Act to identify research 
     priorities for preventing and treating AD/ADRD. An ad hoc 
     committee of NASEM will conduct a study and recommend 
     research priorities to advance the prevention and treatment 
     of AD/ADRD. In conducting its study, the committee will: (1) 
     examine and assess the current state of biomedical research 
     aimed at preventing and effectively treating AD/ADRD, along 
     the R&D pipeline from basic to translational to clinical 
     research; (2) assess the evidence on nonpharmacological 
     interventions aimed at preventing and treating AD/ADRD; (3) 
     identify key barriers to advancing AD/ADRD prevention and 
     treatment (e.g., infrastructure challenges that impede large 
     scale precision medicine approaches, inadequate biomarkers 
     for assessing response to treatment, lack of diversity in 
     biobanks and clinical trials), and opportunities to address 
     these key barriers and catalyze advances across the field; 
     and (4) explore the most promising areas of research into 
     preventing and treating AD/ADRD. The committee's study will 
     include dementia caused by Alzheimer's disease as well as 
     related conditions such as frontotemporal disorders, Lewy 
     body dementia, vascular dementias, and multiple etiology 
     dementias. Dementias with a clear etiology (e.g., incident 
     stroke, AIDS, traumatic brain injury) will be excluded from 
     the analysis. Based on its review of the literature, 
     consultations, and other expert input, the committee will 
     develop a report with its findings, conclusions, and specific 
     recommendations on research priorities for preventing and 
     treating AD/ADRD, including identifying specific near and 
     medium-term scientific questions (i.e., in a 3 to 10 year 
     period) that may be addressed through NIH funding. The report 
     will also include strategies for addressing major barriers to 
     progress on these scientific questions. The agreement 
     includes $1,500,000 within the total funding for NIA for AD/
     ADRD research to cover the costs of this study.
       Alzheimer's Disease Research Center (ADRC).--The agreement 
     directs NIA to provide a report to the Committees within 180 
     days of enactment of this Act detailing the number of 
     individual Alzheimer's disease patients who have gained 
     access to a clinical trial through the outreach of an ADRC, 
     the number of Alzheimer's disease diagnoses

[[Page S8884]]

     given to patients at an ADRC, and a detailed report on 
     patients' and caregivers' needs that were met through the 
     work of ADRCs that cannot be attained at a provider office.
       Brain Health and Exposome Studies.--The agreement 
     encourages NIA to address the research gaps and opportunities 
     identified in the 2021 Alzheimer's Disease Research Summit as 
     NIA works to establish Centers on Exposome Studies in ADRD as 
     directed in the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2022 (P.L. 
     117-103), especially those gaps and opportunities focused on 
     understanding healthy brain aging and applying this 
     understanding to disease prevention.
       Clinical Trials.--Although Alzheimer's disease and other 
     dementias disproportionately affect Black Americans, Hispanic 
     Americans, Asian American and Pacific Islanders, and Native 
     Americans, they continue to be underrepresented in AD/ADRD 
     clinical trials. The agreement directs NIA to work with ADRCs 
     and other organizations to promote participation in clinical 
     trials within underrepresented populations and, to the 
     maximum scientifically-feasible extent, reduce the burden of 
     participating. These efforts should include expanding 
     community engagement and outreach to these populations, 
     incentivizing trial locations in areas of unmet need, 
     encouraging the diversity of clinical trial staff, allowing 
     appropriate flexibility in trial design and inclusion and 
     exclusion criteria, and utilizing technology like remote 
     patient monitoring, where appropriate, to facilitate clinical 
     trial participation and retention. Further, the agreement 
     urges NIA to provide an assessment of the data and metrics it 
     collects related to the planning, recruitment, and retention 
     of clinical trial participants from underrepresented 
     communities and, when possible, how those data have been or 
     plan to be used in grant-making decisions. The assessment 
     should also address how NIA plans to provide more timely data 
     to the Committees and greater transparency to the public 
     about the planning, engagement, and recruitment efforts of 
     its extramural grantees, including a focus on addressing 
     barriers to inclusive and representative enrollment such as 
     eligibility criteria, language accessibility, and adequate 
     planning for diverse enrollment among grantees. The agreement 
     requests that NIA provide this assessment within 180 days of 
     enactment of this Act. In addition, with various treatments 
     for Alzheimer's disease in the pipeline, the agreement 
     encourages NIA to support a wide range of trials, including 
     those with a patient-based national registry of regulatory 
     grade, longitudinal evidence for patients receiving any FDA-
     approved disease modifying therapies for Alzheimer's disease 
     in real-world clinical practice.
       Health Disparities in Aging.--The agreement encourages NIH 
     to support and develop long-term studies of healthy 
     individuals that seek to identify structural drivers of 
     health inequities. These may complement ongoing longitudinal 
     studies of aging--such as the Health and Retirement Study, 
     the National Health and Aging Trends Study, and others--to 
     guide efforts to maximize health and enhance quality of life 
     at older ages. These studies should integrate biological, 
     behavioral, sociocultural, and environmental perspectives as 
     outlined in the NIA Health Disparities Framework.


 national institute of arthritis and musculoskeletal and skin diseases 
                                (niams)

       Opioids and Pain Management Research.--The agreement 
     includes an increase of $5,000,000 for NIAMS to support 
     additional research in this area as described in the fiscal 
     year 2023 budget request.


             national institute of nursing research (ninr)

       Health Disparities Research.--The agreement includes an 
     increase of $10,000,000 for NINR to support research related 
     to identifying and reducing health disparities.


                national institute on drug abuse (nida)

       Opioids, Stimulants, and Pain Management.--The agreement 
     includes no less than $355,295,000 in NIDA for the HEAL 
     Initiative. The agreement encourages NIDA to continue its 
     efforts through the HEAL initiative in fiscal year 2023, with 
     a focus on grant opportunities to support research and 
     education to improve outcomes for people with both chronic 
     pain and addiction in diverse settings across the United 
     States, particularly those located in areas with high 
     incidence of people living with chronic pain. The agreement 
     also includes an additional $10,000,000 to support related 
     research on pain and pain management, as described in the 
     fiscal year 2023 budget request.
       Reducing Opioid Disparities.--The agreement supports 
     efforts to address the disproportionate effects of the opioid 
     overdose epidemic on Black/African Americans. NIDA, in 
     coordination with NIMHD, is encouraged to support 
     collaborations between qualified educational institutions and 
     treatment partners with demonstrated excellence in addiction 
     science and community-based research to lead several large 
     multi-year research efforts. Funding calls should highlight 
     the need for research to reduce barriers to care at the 
     levels of State funding bodies, treatment agencies, 
     individual clinicians, and among patients and community 
     members. Specific areas of focus may include research that 
     examines and mitigates stigma toward medications for opioid 
     use disorder, evaluates reimbursement structures to 
     incentivize improved patient outcomes, implements and 
     evaluates effective environmental supports like crisis and 
     respite housing and transportation assistance, and integrates 
     treatment and recovery support services into non-medical, 
     community-based settings (e.g., interventions delivered by 
     peer and community health workers).


               national institute of mental health (nimh)

       Cost of Serious Mental Illness (SMI).--Despite increased 
     spending on mental health services, the prevalence of SMI has 
     grown by more than fifty percent since 2008, from 3.7 percent 
     to 5.6 percent of Americans in 2020. While some progress has 
     been made at identifying effective treatments for early SMI, 
     many patients and families struggle to access appropriate 
     services. To better understand what is needed to advance more 
     effective, accessible treatments, the agreement directs NIMH 
     to deliver with the fiscal year 2024 Congressional 
     Justification a ``professional judgment'' budget. This budget 
     should estimate the additional funding needed to support 
     opportunities to accelerate SMI research during fiscal year 
     2024, including efforts to expand existing scientific 
     programs focused on improving early identification, accurate 
     diagnosis, biomarker assessment, intervention development, 
     and implementation of effective services, among individuals 
     in the early stages of SMI. In this document, NIMH will 
     include specific scientific questions and areas it would use 
     the funding identified in the professional judgement budget 
     to address. These should be time-limited, goal-driven 
     investments that accelerate emerging science and support 
     high-risk/high-reward research.
       Impact of COVID-19 on Mental Health.--The agreement 
     includes an increase of $5,000,000 for NIMH to expand 
     research on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental 
     health.
       Mental Health Treatment Research.--The agreement provides 
     an increase of $5,000,000 to support research to inform 
     mental health treatment approaches, service delivery, and 
     system transformation, consistent with the fiscal year 2023 
     budget request.


            national human genome research institute (nhgri)

       Community Engagement.--The agreement recognizes the 
     critical role that community engagement plays in enabling 
     researchers to build authentic partnerships that enhance 
     diversity and inclusion in research cohorts. The CEAL 
     program, created to help address the disparate impacts of the 
     COVID-19 pandemic on communities historically 
     underrepresented in biomedical research, has been successful 
     in building such partnerships. Community engagement is also 
     key when there is public hesitancy to participate in 
     research, such as with human genetics and genomics research. 
     The agreement is encouraged by the success of the CEAL 
     program and urges NHGRI, in consultation with NHLBI and 
     NIMHD, to establish and coordinate a community engagement 
     program modeled after CEAL that will support efforts to 
     increase the participation of individuals historically 
     underrepresented and hesitant to participate in human 
     genetics and genomics research.
       Data Sharing.--The agreement urges NIH to convene a working 
     group to develop and disseminate best practices on genomic 
     data sharing for use by entities engaged in biomedical 
     research and international collaboration. That working group 
     should review potential risks involved in sharing genomic 
     data between NIH-supported research studies with private, 
     public, and academic institutions that partake in science and 
     technology research and their research partners, with a focus 
     on international partners. The review should also include 
     recommendations regarding areas where Federal agencies can 
     strengthen coordination to increase education to such private 
     and academic research institutions to ensure the institutions 
     can better protect themselves from national security threats 
     with a strengthened understanding of intellectual property 
     rights, research ethics, data misuse, as well as education on 
     how to recognize and report such threats.


    national center for complementary and integrative health (nccih)

       Pain Management.--The agreement includes an additional 
     $5,000,000 to support research into non-pharmacological 
     treatments for pain management and urges NCCIH, along with 
     DOD and VA, to continue to support research, including 
     comorbidities such as opioid misuse, abuse, and disorder 
     among military personnel, veterans, and their families. The 
     agreement urges NIH, VA, and DOD to expand research on non-
     pharmacological treatments for veterans and service members.


  national institute on minority health and health disparities (nimhd)

       Chronic Disease Centers.--In fiscal year 2021, NIMHD 
     undertook an initiative to support regional comprehensive 
     research and coordinating centers on the prevention, 
     treatment, and management of multiple chronic diseases 
     associated with health disparities. The agreement includes an 
     additional $11,000,000 for NIMHD to provide supplemental 
     grants to the 11 Centers, with a focus on developing and 
     delivering emerging therapeutic interventions addressing the 
     disproportionate burden of disease.
       Health Disparities Research.--The agreement includes an 
     increase of $25,000,000 for NIMHD to support research related 
     to identifying and reducing health disparities.
       Research Centers in Minority Institutions.--The agreement 
     provides $88,765,000 for this activity.

[[Page S8885]]

       Research Endowment Program.--The agreement notes the recent 
     passage of the John Lewis NIMHD Research Endowment 
     Revitalization Act to reinvigorate the Research Endowment 
     Program. The agreement has provided $12,000,000 to implement 
     the revitalized program and urges NIMHD to work swiftly on 
     its implementation. The agreement further notes that the 
     statutory goal of the program is to assist eligible 
     institutions in achieving a research endowment that is 
     comparable to the mean endowment of health professions 
     schools in their health professions discipline. The agreement 
     requests a report no later than 60 days after enactment of 
     this Act on implementation plans and engagement with key 
     stakeholders.


                   fogarty international center (fic)

       Health Disparities Research.--The agreement includes an 
     increase of $5,000,000 for FIC to support research related to 
     identifying and reducing health disparities.


      national center for advancing translational sciences (ncats)

       Clinical and Translational Science Awards (CTSAs).--The 
     agreement provides $629,560,000, an increase of $22,914,000 
     above the fiscal year 2022 enacted level. The agreement 
     maintains its strong support for the CTSA program and 
     reaffirms previous language preserving the size, scope, and 
     historic mission of the CTSA program, including the direction 
     that no hub shall receive less than 95 percent of the 
     resources that were provided prior to fiscal year 2022. Last 
     year, the agreement expressed concerns with a new Funding 
     Opportunity Announcement and its potential to divert 
     appropriated resources away from CTSA hubs. The agreement is 
     concerned that NCATS continues to push to disaggregate CTSA 
     activities, which makes the application process burdensome on 
     investigators and resulted in nearly all institutions 
     submitting partial applications. No later than 30 days after 
     enactment of this Act, NCATS is directed to brief the 
     Committees on options to reverse disaggregation, preserve 
     historic CTSA activities and institutional support, 
     including training as many young investigators as 
     possible, and ensure that any hub funded receive not less 
     than 95 percent of the resources that were previously 
     provided. Finally, the agreement reiterates previous 
     direction that NCATS inform the Committees prior to any 
     planned changes to the size of hub awards, scope of the 
     program, or strategic changes to the program, specifically 
     noting that the Committees shall be consulted prior to any 
     new CTSA initiatives being implemented.
       Collaboration with Business Incubators.--The agreement 
     urges NCATS to redouble its efforts to leverage its mission 
     by exploring opportunities or potential collaborations with 
     business incubators that host small to midsize science, 
     research and pharmaceutical companies that use service-based 
     approaches to nurture and guide their member companies to 
     success.
       Cures Acceleration Network (CAN).--The agreement includes 
     up to $70,000,000 for the CAN to reduce barriers between 
     research discovery and clinical trials. This increase will 
     allow NCATS to address or expand existing CAN cure concepts 
     focused on diagnostic technologies, gene therapy vectors, 
     artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML)-enabled 
     chemistry for drug development, and the next phase of 
     dissemination of tissue chip technology. Further, the 
     agreement urges NCATS to consider supporting activities 
     within CAN and other NCATS' offices or divisions that focus 
     on precision medicine--from precision prevention, to 
     precision diagnosis, to precision therapeutics. Activities 
     should also include the ability to generate the data to 
     demonstrate the efficacy and cost effectiveness of precision 
     medicine.
       Full Spectrum of Medical Research.--The agreement applauds 
     NIH efforts to support and advance the full spectrum of 
     medical research, which ensures breakthroughs in basic 
     science are translated into therapies and diagnostic tools 
     that benefit patient care while disseminating cutting-edge 
     information to the professional community. The agreement 
     notes the importance of flagship initiatives, including the 
     CTSA program, to these important efforts.


                      office of the director (od)

       Administrative Offices.--For fiscal year 2023, the 
     agreement provides the Budget Office $4,550,000 and directs 
     it to recruit and hire a new GS15 staff member or higher to 
     serve as the Committees' primary liaison with NIH. The Budget 
     Office is urged to recruit internally from within NIH to fill 
     this position within 120 days of enactment of this Act.
       Adoption of Dogs, Cats, and Rabbits Used in Research.--The 
     agreement requests NIH to provide a report to the Committees 
     no later than 180 days after enactment of this Act on the 
     feasibility and/or challenges of post-research adoption.
       ALS Research, Treatments, and Expanded Access.--The 
     agreement recognizes it is critically important that NIH 
     continue to grow its investment in ALS research to capitalize 
     on the momentum to find new treatments for ALS and a cure for 
     the disease. The agreement recognizes that each year, only a 
     small portion of research funds are spent on new research 
     projects. The agreement strongly urges NIH to maintain the 
     ALS drug ecosystem with additional grant funding for 
     extramural research through NINDS. In addition, the agreement 
     urges NIH to continue to increase support and momentum for 
     ALS research that can lead to new treatments and better care 
     as quickly as possible, as well as support expanded access 
     research for ALS investigational drugs.
       In addition, the agreement directs NIH to handle funding of 
     expanded access grants as authorized in the ACT for ALS (P.L. 
     117-79) as separate, not competitive with, funding for other 
     research on ALS and includes $75,000,000 for this purpose, an 
     increase of $50,000,000 above the fiscal year 2022 enacted 
     level.
       The agreement urges NINDS and OD to strengthen the expanded 
     access grant application process. This should include 
     allowing applicants 60 days from the official publication 
     date of the Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) to solicit 
     applications to conduct scientific research utilizing data 
     from expanded access to investigational drugs or biological 
     products to allow potential applicants sufficient time to 
     develop meaningful collaborations and responsive projects. 
     NINDS and OD are also directed to offer technical assistance 
     to interested applicants during the grant process and prior 
     to the submission due date of the FOA. Further, the agreement 
     directs NINDS and OD to host webinars for potential 
     applicants to prepare grant applications and also to offer 
     forums for stakeholder engagement throughout the grant 
     process.
       The agreement directs NINDS and OD to brief the Committees 
     prior to any execution of expanded access grants or 
     programmatic funding. Further, once awards are announced, the 
     agreement directs NINDS and OD to provide the Committees with 
     an explanation of the funded grants, including a clear 
     breakdown of what the funding is to be used for. The 
     agreement directs NINDS and OD to fund as many applications 
     as possible and to fund them for one year increments as is 
     common with other NINDS grants.
       Furthermore, if after NINDS completes its review of 
     expanded access research grant applications and awards grants 
     to eligible applications for expanded access programs under 
     Section 2 and there are additional funds, those fundsshallbe 
     used tofund Section 3 public-private research partnerships 
     underthe Act for ALS.
       Finally, if sufficient eligible applications are not 
     received, or NINDS and OD have any reason to believe any 
     funding should lapse for any reason, the ICs are directed to 
     notify the Committees prior to the notifications of awards. 
     This notification shall include: (1) a detailed explanation 
     as to why applications cannot be funded; (2) the technical 
     assistance provided to applicants to assist them in 
     submitting eligible grant applications; and (3) a proposed 
     plan to award funding for other ALS research prior to the end 
     of the fiscal year.
       Analyzing Differences in COVID-19 Study Outcomes.--The 
     agreement recognizes that the COVID--19 pandemic has exposed 
     an array of related health disparities, including a 
     difference in acute disease severity and outcomes between 
     female and male patients. To better understand how sex, race, 
     and other variables impact study outcomes, the agreement 
     directs the ICs, in coordination with OD and the Office of 
     Research on Women's Health, to support research to assess 
     whether sex, race, and other differences play a role in study 
     outcomes.
       Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML).--The 
     agreement provides $135,000,000 to support NIH's efforts to 
     build capacity to leverage machine learning to accelerate the 
     pace of biomedical innovation. This includes $50,000,000 for 
     AI/ML-focused investments and other ML-focused initiatives 
     and $85,000,000, an increase of $15,000,000, for the Office 
     of Data Science Strategy (ODSS). ODSS is encouraged to launch 
     a pilot with the Department of Energy to study the potential 
     for quantum computing for biomedical sciences. The agreement 
     directs ODSS and the Chief Information Officer to provide 
     biannual updates to the Committees on their efforts. In 
     addition, the agreement includes an increase of $3,000,000 
     for the Office of Portfolio Analysis
       (OPA) under the Division of Program Coordination, Planning, 
     and Strategic Initiatives. The agreement strongly supports 
     NIH's efforts to build AI-based analytical tools to help 
     NIH optimize investments in biomedical research by 
     identifying emerging topics and predicting which ones will 
     produce transformative breakthroughs. These tools--which 
     themselves could be transformative--will also help NIH 
     assess the return on investment of past investments, 
     providing insight that has largely been absent in 
     biomedical research. The agreement expects OPA to use the 
     additional funding to expedite the development and 
     adoption of the tools by NIH. The agreement directs OPA to 
     provide the Committees an update on its efforts within 60 
     days of enactment of this Act, including the percentage of 
     NIH program staff in each IC that use OPA's tools.
       Autoimmune Diseases.--Since many autoimmune diseases affect 
     women predominantly, the agreement includes $10,000,000 to 
     implement the recommendations of a recent NASEM report to 
     establish an Office of Autoimmune Disease Research (OADR) 
     within the Office of Research on Women's Health (ORWH). The 
     agreement directs OADR to: (1) coordinate the development of 
     a multi-IC strategic research plan with concrete, meaningful 
     milestones to set priorities; (2) as part of the internal and 
     external outreach for the strategic plan, identify emerging 
     areas of innovation and research opportunity; (3) coordinate 
     and foster collaborative research across ICs; (4) annually 
     evaluate the autoimmune research portfolio to determine 
     progress made across NIH; (5) provide resources to support 
     planning, collaboration,

[[Page S8886]]

     and innovation; and (6) develop and oversee a publicly 
     accessible central repository for autoimmune disease 
     research. The agreement directs ORWH and OADR to brief the 
     Committees within 150 days of enactment of this Act on NIH's 
     efforts to stand up OADR and the status of the aforementioned 
     directives.
       Biomedical Research Facilities.--The agreement provides 
     $80,000,000 for grants to public and nonprofit entities to 
     expand, remodel, renovate, or alter existing research 
     facilities or construct new research facilities as authorized 
     under 42 U.S.C. section 283k. Further, the agreement urges 
     NIH to consider recommendations made by the NIH Working Group 
     on Construction of Research Facilities, including making 
     awards that support a significant number of newly constructed 
     or renovated facilities. Finally, the agreement encourages 
     NIH to prioritize projects focused on specialized imaging 
     capacities.
       Brain Research through Advancing Innovative 
     Neurotechnologies (BRAIN) Initiative.--The agreement includes 
     $680,000,000 for the BRAIN Initiative, including $450,000,000 
     authorized in the Cures Act. The overall funding level 
     includes $95,000,000 for the Human Brain Cell Atlas; 
     $10,000,000 for the Armamentarium for Brain Cell Access; and 
     $30,000,000 for the Brain Connectivity Map. The agreement 
     directs NIH to brief the Committees on the progress and 
     achievements of key projects, as well as mid-term objectives 
     and anticipated/actual outcomes, within 90 days of enactment 
     of this Act.
       Childhood Post-infectious Neuroimmune Disorders/PANS/
     PANDAS.--The agreement encourages NIH to prioritize research 
     in this area, and include an update in the fiscal year 2024 
     Congressional Justification on the progress being made on the 
     understanding of the costs, causes, diagnostic criteria, and 
     treatment of these conditions.
       Chimera Research.--The agreement supports NIH's funding 
     limitation regarding the introduction of human pluripotent 
     cells into non-human vertebrate animal pre-gastrulation stage 
     embryos. The agreement takes seriously the bio-ethical 
     considerations regarding the creation of human-animal 
     chimeras and the continuation of research using these cells.
       Chimpanzee Maintenance, Care, and Transportation.--The 
     agreement directs NIH to provide a report to the Committees 
     quarterly, beginning no later than February 1, 2023, that 
     shall include: (1) the number of chimpanzees transported to 
     the national sanctuary over the last quarter; (2) a census of 
     all government-owned and supported chimpanzees, remaining, if 
     any, at the Alamogordo Primate Facility (APF), the Keeling 
     Center for Comparative Medicine and Research (KCCMR), or the 
     Southwest National Primate Research Center (SNPRC); and (3) a 
     list of any chimpanzee deaths, including details on the cause 
     of death and the specific rationale behind any euthanasia 
     decisions, that have occurred at any time after January 1, 
     2020, at APF, KCCMR, SNPRC, and the national sanctuary 
     system.
       Collection and Reporting of Animal Research Numbers and 
     Agency Funding.-- The Joint Explanatory Statement 
     accompanying the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2022 
     requested a plan to improve the accuracy and transparency of 
     collected data on the use of animals in NIH-funded research. 
     The agreement further encourages NIH to develop and include a 
     draft form for collecting this information annually and to 
     include details on how the agency will address any incomplete 
     reporting of NIH-funded research with animals and encourage 
     prospective documentation of study design and analysis plans.
       Common Data Elements (CDEs).--The agreement recognizes the 
     increasing importance of CDEs that enable standardized and 
     consistent use of data in research, especially translational 
     and clinical research, and that facilitate efforts to 
     replicate and validate findings, for a disease area. The NIH 
     encourages use of CDEs including use of the NIH's CDE 
     repository. To encourage development and use of CDEs in 
     disease areas where they currently do not exist, the 
     agreement directs ODSS to work with ICs to support efforts to 
     develop CDEs, including through collaborations with research 
     stakeholders. The agreement also directs ODSS to provide a 
     list of diseases and disease areas actively under 
     development, such as autoimmune and immune-mediated 
     conditions, to inform further NIH efforts to support 
     development of such elements.
       Common Fund.--The Common Fund supports cross-cutting, 
     trans-NIH programs that require participation by multiple 
     ICs, strategic planning, coordination, and have the potential 
     for extraordinary impact. The agreement provides a 
     $65,000,000 increase to the Common Fund with the expectation 
     that it will focus on time limited, goal-driven investments 
     that accelerate emerging science and support high-risk/high-
     reward research. The agreement directs NIH to brief the 
     Committees about its plans for these funds and other notable 
     Common Fund initiatives within 120 days of enactment. 
     Further, this briefing should include detailed plans on how 
     to support any Common Fund programs within two years of 
     graduation from the program.
       Cybersecurity.--The agreement provides $265,000,000, an 
     increase of $40,000,000 above the fiscal year 2022 enacted 
     level, to strengthen cybersecurity at NIH.
       Developmental Delays.--The agreement includes an increase 
     of $10,000,000 for research on developmental delays, 
     including speech and language delays in infants and toddlers, 
     characterizing speech and language development and outcomes 
     in infants and toddlers through early adolescence. Such 
     research shall include studies, including longitudinal 
     studies.
       Diversity in NIH Kidney Disease Research Populations.--The 
     agreement directs NIH to include an update in the fiscal year 
     2024 Congressional Justification regarding the NIH kidney 
     disease research program, including research on health 
     disparities in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of 
     kidney disease among racial and ethnic minority populations.
       Dual Purpose/Dual Benefit Research.--The agreement 
     encourages a partnership between NIH, the National Institute 
     of Food and Agriculture, and the other relevant 115 Federal 
     research and development agencies to develop a next 
     generation interagency program using agriculturally important 
     large animal species. The agreement expects NIH to continue 
     this important cooperative partnership program to further 
     strengthen ties between human medicine, veterinary medicine, 
     and animal sciences, with the goal to improve animal and 
     human health and provide enhanced applicability and return on 
     investment in research.
       Early-career Pediatric Researchers.--The agreement 
     encourages NIH, through the Trans-NIH Pediatric Research 
     Consortium, to explore an NIH-wide early career development 
     award that is focused on early-career researchers in the 
     field of pediatrics that includes efforts to recruit 
     researchers from diverse backgrounds, including those that 
     are from groups underrepresented in the biomedical workforce. 
     The agreement requests an update on progress in the fiscal 
     year 2024 Congressional Justification.
       Environmental Influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO).--
     The agreement includes $180,000,000, the same level as fiscal 
     year 2022, for the ECHO program. ECHO currently funds the 
     Navajo Birth Cohort Study. The agreement encourages OD to 
     consider expanding the study to include a larger 
     representation of indigenous children in the national cohort 
     to allow for a better understanding of the impacts of 
     environmental exposure in these unique populations.
       Firearm Injury and Mortality Prevention Research.--The 
     agreement includes $12,500,000, the same level as fiscal year 
     2022, to conduct research on firearm injury and mortality 
     prevention. Given violence and suicide have a number of 
     causes, the agreement recommends NIH take a comprehensive 
     approach to studying these underlying causes and evidence-
     based methods of prevention of injury, including crime 
     prevention. All grantees under this section will be required 
     to fulfill requirements around open data, open code, pre-
     registration of research projects, and open access to 
     research articles consistent with the National Science 
     Foundation's open science principles. The Director is to 
     report to the Committees within 30 days of enactment of this 
     Act on implementation schedules and procedures for grant 
     awards, which strive to ensure that such awards support 
     ideologically and politically unbiased research projects.
       Foreign Influence.--To support NIH's efforts to 
     expeditiously complete grant compliance reviews, the 
     agreement continues to include $2,500,000 for this activity 
     within the Office of Extramural Research.
       Harassment Policies.--The agreement directs NIH to 
     establish a strategic plan and timeline to implement the 
     recommendations of the 2020 NIH Workplace Climate and 
     Harassment Survey, and to continue to regularly conduct 
     similar surveys and make the findings public to facilitate 
     progress tracking and accountability.
       Heritable Genetic Information Study.--The agreement directs 
     NIHto enter into an agreement with NASEM within 60 days of 
     enactment of this Act to identify the biological basis of 
     health risks relevant to the regulation of heritable genetic 
     information in food animals. NASEM will conduct a study to 
     identify genetic and other molecular mechanisms that could 
     present risks to human health based on heritable genetic 
     information (natural, induced, intended, or designed) in food 
     animal species. In conducting this study, NASEM will: (1) 
     identify biological mechanisms that may present novel hazards 
     associated with animal food species that harbor intended, 
     induced, or designed heritable genetic information that would 
     not be presented by standard breeding or reproductive 
     technologies practiced in animal agriculture; (2) assess the 
     absolute and relative likelihood of animal agricultural 
     presenting such hazards; and (3) identify experimental 
     strategies and methodologies to evaluate the human safety of 
     animals (or the derived agricultural products) that harbor 
     intended, induced, or designed heritable genetic information 
     for agricultural applications. Based on its review of the 
     literature, consultations with the Departments of Health and 
     Human Services and Agriculture, and other expert input, NASEM 
     will report its findings, conclusions, and recommendations, 
     including identification of specific near- and medium-term 
     scientific questions (i.e., in a 3 to 10 year period) that 
     may be addressed through NIH or HHS funding. The report will 
     also include strategies for addressing major scientific or 
     technical barriers to progress on these scientific questions. 
     The agreement provides $1,300,000 to cover the costs of this 
     study.
       Humane Research Alternatives.--The agreement recognizes 
     that non-human primate research models make significant 
     contributions to advancing science's understanding

[[Page S8887]]

     of diseases and disorders afflicting humans and animals, 
     including in the discovery and evaluation of new therapeutics 
     before they go to clinical trials in human and animal 
     patients. However, recognizing that humane, cost-effective, 
     and scientifically suitable non-animal methods are available 
     for certain research models, but underutilized, the agreement 
     directs NIH to report to the Committees no later than 180 
     days after enactment of this Act on the feasibility of 
     establishing incentives to encourage investigators to utilize 
     non-animal methods whenever appropriate for the research 
     question and how to establish standardized guidelines for 
     peer review evaluation of the justification for research with 
     animals.
       HIV/AIDS Research.--The agreement includes an increase of 
     $100,000,000 above the fiscal year 2022 level for research 
     related to HIV/AIDS across NIH.
       Corps.--The agreement encourages NIH to expand access to 
     healthcare commercialization programs such as I-Corps@NIH and 
     the Concept to Clinic: Commercializing Innovation (C3i) 
     programs for their Small Business Innovation Research and 
     Small Business Technology Transfer Programs recipients.
       INCLUDE Initiative.--The agreement includes no less than 
     $90,000,000 for this activity and requests an updated plan as 
     described in House Report 117-403.
       Lyme Disease and Related Tick-Borne Illnesses.--The 
     agreement urges NIH to develop new tools that can more 
     effectively prevent, diagnose, and treat Lyme disease, 
     including its long-term effects, and other tick-borne 
     diseases. The agreement encourages NIH to evaluate the 
     effectiveness of laboratory tests associated with the 
     detection of Borrellia burgdori to diagnose the disease 
     early, as well as the promotion and development of potential 
     vaccine candidates for Lyme disease and other tick-borne 
     diseases. The agreement urges NIH to conduct research to 
     better understand modes of transmission for Lyme and other 
     tick-borne diseases, including vertical transmission. The 
     agreement encourages NIH to incentivize new investigators to 
     enter the field of tick-borne disease research. The agreement 
     directs NIH to coordinate with CDC on publishing reports that 
     assess diagnostic advancements, methods for prevention, the 
     state of treatment, and links between tick-borne disease and 
     psychiatric illnesses.
       National Security.--The agreement believes that NIH should 
     consider relevant national security issues when developing 
     and executing the NIH-wide Strategic Plan.
       Native Hawaiians (NH).--The agreement directs NIH to 
     provide the Committees a report within 90 days after 
     enactment of this Act describing how it currently coordinates 
     NH health research-related activities across the agency and 
     with the NH community. The agreement encourages NIMHD to 
     partner with entities with a proven track record of working 
     closely with NH communities and NH-serving organizations to 
     support the development of NH investigators.
       Office of Nutrition Research.--The agreement continues to 
     fund the Office of Nutrition at the fiscal year 2022 level.
       Office of Research on Women's Health (ORWH).--The agreement 
     includes $76,480,000 for ORWH. Within the total for ORWH, the 
     agreement provides $5,000,000, an increase of $1,000,000 
     above the fiscal year 2022 enacted level, for the Building 
     Interdisciplinary Research Careers in Women's Health (BIRCWH) 
     program to fund additional BIRCWH fellows at existing sites. 
     To address the persistent gaps that remain in the knowledge 
     of women's health, the agreement includes $2,000,000 within 
     ORWH to contract with NASEM to conduct a study on the gaps 
     present in women's health research across all NIH ICs. 
     Specifically, the study should be designed to explore the 
     proportion of research on conditions that are more common or 
     unique to women, establish how these conditions are defined 
     and ensure that it captures conditions across the lifespan, 
     evaluates sex differences and racial health disparities, and 
     determine the appropriate level of funding that is needed to 
     address gaps in women's health research at NIH. The agreement 
     requests NASEM, not later than 18 months after the date on 
     which the agreement is entered, to submit to Congress a 
     report containing the findings of the study and the 
     recommendations to address research gaps in women's health 
     research, including measurable metrics to ensure that this 
     research is accurately tracked to meet the continuing health 
     needs of women. As mentioned above, the agreement also 
     includes $10,000,000 within ORWH to establish the Office of 
     Autoimmune Disease Research.
       Office of the Chief Officer for Scientific Workforce 
     Diversity.--The agreement includes no less than $22,415,000 
     for this office.
       Palliative Care.--The agreement reiterates the need for NIH 
     to develop and implement a trans-Institute strategy to expand 
     and intensify national research programs in palliative care. 
     The agreement urges NIH to ensure that palliative care is 
     integrated into all areas of research across NIH and requests 
     an update on plans to realize this coordination in the fiscal 
     year 2024 Congressional Justification.
       Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS).--POTS is 
     one of the most common forms of dysautonomia, estimated to 
     impact up to 3,000,000 Americans prior to the COVID-19 
     pandemic. Recent research suggests that 67 percent of 
     individuals experiencing post-acute sequelae of SARS-COV-2 
     (PASC), also known as Long COVID, are developing moderate to 
     severe dysautonomia, most commonly presenting as POTS. Due to 
     the sudden increase in the patient population affected by 
     this debilitating disorder, the agreement strongly encourages 
     NIH to support new research on POTS, to address the gaps in 
     current knowledge identified during the NIH's July 2019 
     workshop, Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS): 
     State of the Science, Clinical Care, and Research. The 
     agreement strongly encourages NIH to establish a multi-
     Institute Notice of Special Interest to spur additional 
     needed research addressing the identified gaps in knowledge.
       Prenatal Opioid Use Disorders and Neonatal Abstinence 
     Syndrome (NAS).--The agreement encourages NIH to coordinate 
     with other agencies at HHS to support additional research on 
     prevention, identification, and treatment of prenatal opioid 
     exposure and NAS, including the best methods for screening 
     and treating pregnant women for opioid use disorder and the 
     best methods for screening for NAS. Additionally, the 
     agreement encourages NIH to support research through the ACT 
     NOW and HBCD studies to enhance understanding of the impact 
     of pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments for NAS 
     on costs and outcomes in the short-term and longitudinally. 
     The agreement further encourages NIH to coordinate with other 
     agencies at HHS to support research on innovative care models 
     to optimize care and long-term outcomes for families.
       Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Research Center.--
     The agreement does not provide funding to establish the 
     Center.


                        buildings and facilities

       The agreement includes $350,000,000 for Buildings and 
     Facilities. For the third time in as many years, the 
     agreement does not include authority for NIH to transfer up 
     to 1 percent of its research funding to Buildings and 
     Facilities. This is highly unusual authority for a Federal 
     agency and NIH has once again provided no explanation for why 
     this mechanism would be appropriate for NIH, but not other 
     Federal agencies. Should NIH request this authority in its 
     fiscal year 2024 budget request, it is directed to provide to 
     the Committees an RCDC report at the same time the 
     Congressional Justification is delivered detailing estimated 
     expenditures by disease category before and after the 1 
     percent authority is used in fiscal year 2024. At the same 
     time, NIH is directed to provide a list of the projects it 
     would fund using this transfer authority.
       The agreement directs NIH to continue to provide quarterly 
     updates of its efforts to develop best practices and its 
     maintenance and construction plans for projects whose cost 
     exceeds $3,500,000, including any changes to those plans and 
     the original baseline estimates for individual projects. It 
     also directs NIH to describe in its fiscal year 2024 and 
     future Congressional Justifications how the projects 
     requested in its budgets tie to its capital planning process, 
     including the RFAC's role in determining which projects are 
     selected for inclusion in the budget.


  substance abuse and mental health services administration (samhsa) 
                             mental health

       Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHC).--The 
     agreement continues to encourage SAMHSA to work with CMS to 
     review and update the Department's approach to CCBHC 
     certification activities. SAMHSA and CMS are directed to 
     provide an update on the review and implementation of the 
     CCBHC expansion included in the Bipartisan Safer Communities 
     Act within 90 days of enactment of this Act. Within the 
     increase, the agreement includes $3,000,000 for the expansion 
     and operation of the CCBHC-Expansion National Training and 
     Technical Assistance Center to assist stakeholders on the 
     application of certification criteria, data reporting 
     requirements, financing questions, and best practices related 
     to the expansion of the demonstration program included in the 
     Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (P.L. 117-159).
       Children's Mental Health Services.--The agreement includes 
     an increase to expand efforts, including reaching more 
     children and training more people in mental health activities 
     and practices.
       Mental Health Block Grant.--The agreement continues to 
     include a five percent set-aside of the total for evidence-
     based crisis care programs that address the needs of 
     individuals with serious mental illnesses, children with 
     serious emotional disturbances, or individuals experiencing a 
     mental health crisis.
       National Child Traumatic Stress Initiative.--The agreement 
     includes an increase and directs SAMHSA to ensure the network 
     maintains its focus on collaboration, data collection, and 
     the provision of direct services, and that new grant 
     opportunities should not be limited to training only.
       Within the total provided for Mental Health Programs of 
     Regional and National Significance (PRNS), the agreement 
     includes the following amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              FY 2023
                     Budget Activity                         Agreement
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Capacity:
  Seclusion and Restraint...............................      $1,147,000
  Project AWARE.........................................     140,001,000
  Healthy Transitions...................................      30,451,000
  Mental Health Awareness Training......................      27,963,000
  Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health..............      15,000,000
  Children and Family Programs..........................       7,229,000
  Consumer and Family Network Grants....................       4,954,000
  Project LAUNCH........................................      25,605,000
  Mental Health System Transformation...................       3,779,000
  Primary and Behavioral Health Care Integration........      55,877,000
  Mental Health Crisis Response Grants..................      20,000,000
  988 Program...........................................     501,618,000

[[Page S8888]]

 
  National Strategy for Suicide Prevention..............      28,200,000
    Zero Suicide........................................      26,200,000
    American Indian and Alaska Native...................       3,400,000
  Garrett Lee Smith--Youth Suicide Prevention...........
    State Grants........................................      43,806,000
    Campus Grants.......................................       8,488,000
  American Indian and Alaskan Native Suicide............
    Prevention Initiative...............................       3,931,000
  Tribal Behavioral Grants..............................      22,750,000
  Homelessness Prevention Programs......................      33,696,000
  Minority AIDS.........................................       9,224,000
  Criminal and Juvenile Justice Programs................      11,269,000
  Assisted Outpatient Treatment.........................      21,420,000
  Assertive Community Treatment for Individuals with           9,000,000
   Serious Mental Illness...............................
  Interagency Task Force on Trauma Informed Care........       2,000,000
Science and Service:
  Garrett Lee Smith--Suicide Prevention Resource Center.      11,000,000
  Practice Improvement and Training.....................       7,828,000
  Primary and Behavioral Health Integration Technical          1,991,000
   Assistance...........................................
  Consumer & Consumer Support Technical Assistance             1,918,000
   Centers..............................................
  Minority Fellowship Program...........................      11,059,000
  Disaster Response.....................................       1,953,000
  Homelessness..........................................       2,296,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Behavioral Health Crisis Services and 988 Program (988).--
     The agreement reflects a one-time appropriation provided in 
     section 145 of P.L. 117-180 and provides an increase in 
     funding to support local crisis center capacity and 
     centralized network functions in order to respond to the 
     increase in contacts as the National Suicide Prevention 
     Lifeline (Lifeline) continues its transition to 988. The 
     agreement encourages SAMHSA to expand existing intervention 
     and suicide prevention hotline and web services and focus 
     outreach on youth. The agreement also encourages SAMHSA to 
     partner with academic institutions and organizations in areas 
     with high concentrations of veterans and active duty military 
     personnel to ensure access to 988 and crisis lifeline 
     resources. The agreement requests a briefing within 90 days 
     of enactment of this Act on the implementation of the 988 
     program, which shall include a spend plan for the resources 
     allocated through 988. Within the increase for 988, the 
     agreement provides $7,000,000 for the Behavioral Health 
     Crisis and 988 Coordinating Office. In addition, within the 
     increase for 988, the agreement provides $10,000,000 to 
     provide services for Spanish speakers seeking access to the 
     Lifeline through texts or chats. SAMHSA shall make this 
     funding available to one or more organizations with the 
     capacity and experience to offer culturally competent, 
     Spanish language text and chat services for mental health 
     support and crisis intervention. Furthermore, within the 
     increase for 988, the agreement provides $29,700,000 and 
     directs the activities included in House Report 117-403, 
     including making funding competitively available to 
     provide the capacity and infrastructure to handle 
     vulnerable youth callers, chats, and texts through 
     interactive voice response technology and other technology 
     solutions where appropriate.
       COVID-19 Impact.--The agreement does not include directives 
     for the reports described in House Report 117-403.
       Depression.--The agreement encourages a national Depression 
     Center of Excellence to help translate academic treatment 
     advances into clinical care. This Center would help address 
     the need for earlier clinical detection of depression and new 
     strategies to prevent recurrences of depressive illnesses, as 
     well as ways of reducing their length and severity.
       Mental Health Awareness Training.--The agreement includes 
     an increase for Mental Health Awareness Training and directs 
     SAMHSA to continue to include as eligible grantees local law 
     enforcement agencies, fire departments, and emergency medical 
     units with a special emphasis on training for crisis de-
     escalation techniques. SAMHSA is also encouraged to allow 
     training for college students, veterans and armed services 
     personnel and their family members and to broaden applicable 
     settings to include non-educational and non-healthcare 
     settings where appropriate.
       Mental Health Centers of Excellence.--The agreement urges 
     SAMHSA to continue supporting centers of excellence focused 
     on the development, evaluation, and distribution of evidence-
     based resources regarding comprehensive treatment 
     recommendations for mental health patients. These 
     recommendations may include supportive services, wraparound 
     services, and social determinants of care where applicable. 
     The centers will also work to disseminate treatment 
     recommendations to the broader network of mental health 
     clinicians.
       Mental Health Crisis Response Grants.--The agreement 
     includes an increase for the activities directed in House 
     Report 117-403.
       Project AWARE.--The agreement includes an increase for 
     school-and campus-based mental health services and support. 
     Of the amount provided, the agreement directs $17,500,000 for 
     grants to support efforts in high-crime, high-poverty areas 
     and, in particular, communities that are seeking to address 
     relevant impacts and root causes of civil unrest, community 
     violence, and collective trauma. Additionally, within this 
     increase, the agreement provides $12,000,000 to increase 
     student access to evidence-based, culturally relevant, trauma 
     support services and mental health care through established 
     partnerships with community organizations as authorized by 
     section 7134 of the SUPPORT Act (P.L. 115-271).


                       substance abuse treatment

       State Opioid Response (SOR) Grants.--The agreement provides 
     an increase and notes that large swings in funding between 
     grant cycles can pose a significant challenge for States 
     seeking to maintain programs that were instrumental in 
     reducing drug overdose fatalities. The agreement directs 
     SAMHSA to avoid significant cliffs between States with 
     similar opioid mortality data, and to prevent unusually large 
     changes in a State's SOR allocation when compared to the 
     prior year's allocation. In ensuring the formula avoids such 
     cliffs, the Assistant Secretary may consider options 
     including, but not limited to, expanding the number of States 
     that are eligible for the 15 percent set aside. The agreement 
     continues to direct SAMHSA to conduct a yearly evaluation of 
     the program to be transmitted to the Committees no later than 
     180 days after enactment of this Act and make such an 
     evaluation publicly available on SAMHSA's website.
       SOR Overdose Data Report.--The agreement recognizes that 
     drug overdose mortality data collection and reporting is 
     complex, often with multi-substance use contributing to 
     mortality. The agreement encourages SAMHSA to evaluate the 
     data used to calculate SOR allocations, including whether 
     accurate, State-level data exists for mortality rates for 
     opioid use disorders and whether such data should be used to 
     calculate the 15 percent set-aside within SOR.
       Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Block Grant 
     (SABG).--The agreement does not include a new set-aside 
     within the SABG for recovery services, but urges SAMHSA to 
     strongly encourage States to use a portion of their SABG 
     funding for recovery support services.
       Within the total provided for Substance Abuse Treatment 
     Programs of Regional and National Significance, the agreement 
     includes the following amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              FY 2023
                     Budget Activity                         Agreement
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Capacity:
  Opioid Treatment Programs and Regulatory Activities...     $10,724,000
  Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to              33,840,000
   Treatment............................................
    PHS Evaluation Funds................................       2,000,000
  Targeted Capacity Expansion--General..................     122,416,000
    Medication-Assisted Treatment for Prescription Drug      111,000,000
     and Opioid Addiction...............................
  Grants to Prevent Prescription Drug/Opioid Overdose...      16,000,000
  First Responder Training..............................      56,000,000
    Rural Focus.........................................      31,000,000
  Pregnant and Postpartum Women.........................      38,931,000
  Recovery Community Services Program...................       4,434,000
  Children and Families.................................      30,197,000
  Treatment Systems for Homeless........................      37,114,000
  Minority AIDS.........................................      66,881,000
  Criminal Justice Activities...........................      94,000,000
    Drug Courts.........................................      74,000,000
  Improving Access to Overdose Treatment................       1,500,000
  Building Communities of Recovery......................      16,000,000
  Peer Support Technical Assistance Center..............       2,000,000
  Comprehensive Opioid Recovery Centers.................       6,000,000
  Emergency Department Alternatives to Opioids..........       8,000,000
  Treatment, Recovery, and Workforce Support............      12,000,000
  Youth Prevention and Recovery Initiative..............       2,000,000
Science and Service:
  Addiction Technology Transfer Centers.................       9,046,000
  Minority Fellowship Program...........................       7,136,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Building Communities of Recovery.--The agreement provides 
     an increase for enhanced long-term recovery support 
     principally governed by people in recovery from substance use 
     disorders. The agreement encourages SAMHSA to continue 
     supporting recovery support programs principally governed by 
     people in recovery from substance use disorders, including 
     peer support networks.
       First Responder Training.--The agreement urges SAMHSA to 
     take steps to encourage and support the use of First 
     Responder Training funds for opioid safety education and 
     training, including initiatives that improve access for 
     licensed health care professionals, including paramedics, to 
     emergency devices used to rapidly reverse the effects of 
     opioid overdoses. Within the increase, the agreement provides 
     $10,500,000 to make awards to rural public and non-profit 
     fire and EMS agencies as authorized in the Supporting and 
     Improving Rural Emergency Medical Service's Needs (SIREN) Act 
     (P.L. 115-334). The agreement again encourages SAMHSA to 
     allow the purchase of equipment, including naloxone and to 
     continue to fund grants with award amounts lower than the 
     maximum amount allowable.
       Medication-Assisted Treatment for Prescription Drug and 
     Opioid Addiction.--The agreement directs SAMHSA to ensure 
     that these grants include as an allowable use the support of 
     medication-assisted treatment and other clinically 
     appropriate services to achieve and maintain abstinence from 
     all opioids, including programs that offer low-barrier or 
     same day treatment options. Within the amount provided, the 
     agreement includes $14,500,000 for grants to Indian Tribes 
     and Tribal Organizations.
       Opioid Use in Rural Communities.--The agreement encourages 
     SAMHSA to support initiatives to advance opioid use 
     prevention, treatment, and recovery objectives, including by 
     improving access through telehealth. SAMHSA is encouraged to 
     focus on addressing the needs of individuals with substance 
     use disorders in rural and medically underserved areas. In 
     addition, the agreement encourages SAMHSA to consider early 
     interventions, such as co-prescription of overdose 
     medications with opioids, as a way to reduce overdose deaths 
     in rural areas.
       Opioid Use Disorder Relapse.--The agreement recognizes 
     SAMHSA's efforts to address opioid use disorder relapse 
     within Federal grant programs by emphasizing that opioid 
     detoxification should be followed by medication to prevent 
     relapse to opioid dependence. The agreement encourages SAMHSA 
     to continue these efforts.
       Pregnant and Postpartum Women.--The agreement provides an 
     increase and again encourages SAMHSA to fund an additional 
     cohort of States under the pilot program authorized by the 
     Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (P.L. 114-198).

[[Page S8889]]

       Recovery Housing.--In order to increase the availability of 
     high-quality recovery housing, the agreement encourages 
     SAMHSA to examine opportunities to provide direct technical 
     assistance to communities in multiple states and promote the 
     development of recovery ecosystems that incorporate evidence-
     based recovery housing for substance use disorder 
     intervention. SAMHSA is encouraged to explore the 
     establishment of a Center of Excellence with a non-profit, in 
     collaboration with a college of public health, which has 
     expertise and experience in providing technical assistance 
     and research in recovery housing and focuses on homeless and 
     justice-involved individuals utilizing blended funding and an 
     intervention model with demonstrated outcomes.
       Treatment Assistance for Localities.--The agreement again 
     recognizes the use of peer recovery specialists and mutual 
     aid recovery programs that support Medication-Assisted 
     Treatment. The agreement directs SAMHSA to support evidence-
     based, self-empowering, mutual aid recovery support programs 
     that expressly support Medication-Assisted Treatment in its 
     grant programs.
       Youth Prevention and Recovery Initiative.--The agreement 
     includes funding for activities outlined in House Report 117-
     403.


                       substance abuse prevention

       Within the total provided for Substance Abuse Prevention 
     Programs of Regional and National Significance, the agreement 
     includes the following amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              FY 2023
                     Budget Activity                         Agreement
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Capacity:
  Strategic Prevention Framework........................    $135,484,000
Strategic Prevention Framework Rx.......................      10,000,000
  Federal Drug-Free Workplace...........................       5,139,000
  Minority AIDS.........................................      43,205,000
  Sober Truth on Preventing Underage Drinking...........      14,500,000
  National Adult-Oriented Media Public Service Campaign.       2,500,000
  Community-based Coalition Enhancement Grants..........      11,000,000
  Intergovernmental Coordinating Committee on the              1,000,000
   Prevention of Underage Drinking......................
  Tribal Behavioral Health Grants.......................      23,665,000
Science and Service:
  Center for the Application of Prevention Technologies.       9,493,000
  Science and Service Program Coordination..............       4,072,000
  Minority Fellowship Program...........................       1,321,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       At-Home Prescription Drug Disposal.--The agreement supports 
     efforts to encourage at-home prescription drug deactivation 
     and disposal, and urges SAMHSA to support these types of 
     programs.
       Office of Prevention Innovation (OPI).--The agreement notes 
     concern with the manner in which SAMHSA established OPI, 
     without providing notice to the public for comment and 
     failure to include the office in the fiscal year 2023 budget 
     request. Further, the agreement is concerned that the work 
     conducted by the OPI may be outside of the authorized scope 
     for the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention. The agreement 
     requests an update from SAMHSA on OPI and its activities 
     within 120 days of enactment of this Act.
       Strategic Prevention Framework-Partnerships for Success 
     Program.--The agreement encourages the program to support 
     comprehensive, multi-sector substance use prevention 
     strategies to stop or delay the age of initiation of each 
     State's top three substance use issues for 12 to 18 year old 
     youth as determined by the State's epidemiological data. The 
     agreement directs SAMHSA to ensure that State alcohol and 
     drug agencies remain eligible to apply along with community-
     based organizations and coalitions.
       Substance Misuse Prevention.--The agreement remains 
     supportive of efforts to reduce the risks associated with 
     drug use, including efforts to avoid drug overdose deaths and 
     the spread of diseases such as HIV and hepatitis. However, 
     these programs primarily serve individuals already struggling 
     with substance misuse and should not be considered primary 
     prevention programs. As such, the agreement strongly 
     encourages SAMHSA to ensure this funding is administered 
     through the Center for Substance Abuse Treatment and not 
     through the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention.


                health surveillance and program support

       Within the total provided for health surveillance and 
     program support, the agreement includes the following 
     amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              FY 2023
                     Budget Activity                         Agreement
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Health Surveillance.....................................     $50,623,000
  PHS Evaluation Funds..................................      30,428,000
Program Support.........................................      84,500,000
Public Awareness and Support............................      13,260,000
Performance and Quality Information Systems.............      10,200,000
Drug Abuse Warning Network..............................      13,000,000
Behavioral Health Workforce Data........................       1,000,000
  PHS Evaluation Funds..................................       1,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Community Project Funding/Congressionally Directed 
     Spending.--The agreement includes $160,777,000 for the 
     projects, and in the amounts, specified in the table titled 
     ``Community Project Funding/Congressionally Directed 
     Spending'' included in this explanatory statement 
     accompanying this division.
       Data on Substance Use Disorder Treatment.--The agreement 
     recognizes the challenges associated with treatment and 
     recovery data collection and again encourages SAMHSA to 
     request that States submit data on quality metrics for the 
     evidenced-based treatment and recovery programs that enable 
     individuals to achieve long-term recovery funded through the 
     SABG, SOR, and State Targeted Response to the Opioid Crisis 
     grant programs.

           Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ)

       The agreement includes $373,500,000 for AHRQ. Within the 
     total, the agreement includes the following amounts:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              FY 2023
                     Budget Activity                         Agreement
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Health Costs, Quality, and Outcomes:
  Prevention/Care Management............................     $11,542,000
  Health Information Technology (IT)....................      16,349,000
  Patient Safety Research...............................      89,615,000
  Health Services Research, Data, and Dissemination.....     101,103,000
  Long COVID............................................      10,000,000
Medical Expenditure Panel Survey........................      71,791,000
Program Management......................................      73,100,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR).--The agreement directs AHRQ 
     to work with other HHS agencies to provide the annual 
     briefing described under the section of the explanatory 
     statement dealing with the Office of the Secretary within 30 
     days of enactment of this Act and every succeeding annual 
     appropriations act.
       Center for Primary Care Research.--The agreement continues 
     $2,000,000 for this activity.
       Diagnostic Errors.--The agreement includes $20,000,000 to 
     fund research, testing, and solutions to avoid diagnostic 
     error and to support Diagnostic Safety Centers of Excellence 
     to disseminate related findings. Funding provided will 
     support eight centers, with each center focusing on specific 
     conditions, populations, or settings of diagnostic safety as 
     noted in the fiscal year 2023 budget request.
       Grief and Bereavement Care.--The agreement notes that more 
     Americans are experiencing grief and loss as a result of the 
     COVID-19 pandemic. The agreement includes $1,000,000 to fund 
     an evidence review and technical expert panel to assess the 
     feasibility of developing consensus-based quality standards 
     for high quality bereavement and grief care. AHRQ is 
     directed, in consultation with stakeholders including the 
     National Quality Forum (NQF), the Patient-Centered Outcomes 
     Research Institute (PCORI), and community-based providers 
     including hospice programs, to establish an evidence-base on 
     what constitutes high-quality grief and bereavement care.
       Heart Disease Research.--Heart disease is the leading cause 
     of death for Americans. Understanding how to reduce the rate 
     of cardiac events and to control the metabolic processes that 
     lead to such events is needed. The agreement supports AHRQ 
     studying and assessing the current evidence for lipid control 
     and cardiovascular event reduction. In addition, the 
     agreement directs AHRQ to assess the current evidence on the 
     costs and benefits--including the costs to the Federal 
     Treasury--of angioplasties conducted in non-emergency 
     situations and make recommendations based on its findings 
     within 180 days of enactment of this Act.
       Improving Maternal Health.--The agreement urges AHRQ to 
     fund research to understand the complex challenges of 
     ensuring safe and healthy pregnancies and childbirth, 
     particularly for underserved women who are at substantially 
     higher risk of complication and death.
       Long COVID Research.--The agreement includes $10,000,000 
     for health-systems research on how best to deliver patient-
     centered, coordinated care to those living with Long COVID, 
     including the development and implementation of new models of 
     care to help treat the complexity of symptoms those with Long 
     COVID experience.
       Organ Availability.--The agreement urges AHRQ to evaluate 
     innovative approaches to enhance the availability of organs, 
     otherwise encourage donation, and further improve the organ 
     transplantation process, including through consultation with 
     other Federal agencies.
       People with Disabilities.--The agreement includes $750,000 
     for AHRQ to work with stakeholders to develop a research 
     agenda and report for dissemination on health promotion, 
     disease prevention, and intervention strategies for people 
     with disabilities.
       Sepsis.--To better understand the disease burden of sepsis, 
     the agreement includes $750,000 and directs AHRQ to conduct a 
     comprehensive set of studies that calculate the morbidity, 
     readmissions, and mortality related to sepsis with respect to 
     pediatrics, maternal sepsis, nursing home care, and 
     rehabilitation, and the association of pandemic-related 
     changes in the healthcare system on the burden of sepsis. The 
     study should also examine the annual financial costs of 
     sepsis in the United States.

             Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)


                           program management

       Alzheimer's Disease (AD) Diagnostics.--CMS' bundled payment 
     policy for advance radiopharmaceuticals in the hospital 
     outpatient setting can make these diagnostic imaging services 
     cost prohibitive for many hospitals and doctors, especially 
     those providing care to racial and ethnic minorities, and 
     patients in rural areas. The agreement directs CMS to review 
     the utilization of AD diagnostics and consider potential 
     modifications that could make access to advanced imaging for 
     AD more equitable.
       Cardiac Computed Tomography (CT).--The agreement notes that 
     unstable and low Medicare payments for cardiac CT services is 
     contributing to significant disparity in access to services 
     among minority populations and encourages CMS to address this 
     inequity.
       Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHC).--The 
     agreement continues to encourage CMS to work with SAMHSA to 
     review and update the Department's approach to CCBHC 
     certification activities. The agreement directs CMS and 
     SAMHSA to provide an update on the review and implementation 
     of the CCBHC expansion included in the Bipartisan Safer 
     Communities Act within 90 days of the date of enactment of 
     this Act.

[[Page S8890]]

       Computed Tomography (CT) Colonography.--The agreement 
     encourages CMS to consider existing evidence to determine 
     whether CMS should cover CT Colonography as a Medicare-
     covered colorectal cancer screening test under section 
     1861(pp)(1) of the Social Security Act.
       Diabetes Technology.--The agreement is concerned about 
     access to new technologies to treat diabetes and notes that 
     CMS and FDA have not coordinated their efforts regarding 
     these technologies, leading to a lack of certainty and 
     predictability regarding coverage and payment policies. The 
     agreement expects the report on this issue as requested in 
     Public Law 117-103.
       Evaluation and Management Services (E/M).--The agreement 
     requests an update in the fiscal year 2024 Congressional 
     Justification on a process to evaluate E/M services more 
     regularly and comprehensively.
       Rural Hospital Closures.--The agreement notes that 135 
     rural hospitals have closed in the past decade and many 
     others are vulnerable to closure. The agreement directs CMS 
     to provide feedback to the Committees on Appropriations, the 
     Senate Committee on Finance, and the House Committee on 
     Energy and Commerce on providing appropriate relief for 
     struggling hospitals in rural and under-served communities.
       Sepsis.--The agreement directs CMS, in collaboration with 
     CDC, to use the measure development process to develop new or 
     identify existing hospital quality measures for adult and 
     pediatric sepsis that could be implemented through notice and 
     comment rulemaking. This process should take into account the 
     adult and pediatric measures that were successfully adopted 
     and implemented in New York State. CMS should consult with 
     the CDC to determine if CDC's National Healthcare Safety 
     Network (NHSN) could include Adult Sepsis Event 
     surveillance and early identification of sepsis, perhaps 
     leveraging new data interoperability standards. CMS, in 
     coordination with the CDC, shall also develop new or 
     identify existing processes to publicly report 
     quantitative and qualitative information regarding sepsis 
     care that may be reported through the NHSN and may track 
     hospital implementation of quality improvement measures 
     for adult and pediatric sepsis care.
       Transitional Coverage for Emerging Technologies.--The 
     agreement requests an update in the fiscal year 2024 
     Congressional Justification on this program and related CMS 
     resources.
       Whole Genome Sequencing.--The agreement notes a growing 
     body of evidence that whole genome sequencing (WGS), whole 
     exome sequencing, and gene panel testing can save lives and 
     money when used to diagnose infants and children suspected of 
     having a rare genetic disease. The agreement urges CMS to 
     develop guidance for state health officials on best practices 
     for incorporating these technologies into their Medicaid and 
     CHIP programs as a first-line diagnostic for children who are 
     suspected of having rare genetic diseases in the inpatient 
     setting. This guidance should also include advice for States 
     on how to encourage and incentivize managed care 
     organizations to cover these diagnostic tools for this 
     population. The agreement requests a report within 180 days 
     of enactment on steps taken to develop such guidance. 
     Additionally, the agreement understands that there are 
     undiagnosed diseases that do not require hospital inpatient 
     care and urges CMS to issue guidance on the Early and 
     Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment Benefit on the 
     usage of WGS, whole exome sequencing, and gene panel testing.
       The agreement does not include directives for Contraceptive 
     Access under the Affordable Care Act, as described in House 
     Report 117-403.
       The agreement does not include funding increases for new 
     initiatives for the development of a patient advocate program 
     or State All Payer Claims Databases, as described in House 
     Report 117-403.


                  HEALTH CARE FRAUD AND ABUSE CONTROL

       Senior Medicare Patrol.--Within the amount provided for 
     CMS, the agreement includes $35,000,000 for this program.

             Administration for Children and Families (ACF)


               LOW INCOME HOME ENERGY ASSISTANCE (LIHEAP)

       The agreement includes $1,500,000,000 in this division, and 
     $2,500,000,000 under this heading in the Disaster Relief 
     Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2023, to provide 
     $4,000,000,000 for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance 
     program, an increase of $199,696,000 over the fiscal year 
     2022 enacted level. In addition to this funding, 
     $1,000,000,000 in supplemental funding is also provided in 
     the Disaster Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2023, to 
     help lower-income families cover the costs of home heating 
     and cooling.
       The agreement includes $1,700,000 in additional technical 
     assistance funding for HHS to continue to develop a formula 
     system to simplify the formulation process to enable ACF 
     staff to provide estimates more readily when requested by the 
     Committees. Once such a system is in place, the agreement 
     instructs HHS to work collaboratively with the Committees to 
     promptly respond to requests for estimates and to ensure no 
     request shall be outstanding for longer than 10 calendar 
     days.
       The agreement continues bill language to reduce volatility 
     in State allocations of LIHEAP funding in order to prevent 
     States from experiencing significant reductions in funding 
     between fiscal years.


                     REFUGEE AND ENTRANT ASSISTANCE

       The agreement recognizes that funding for this account is 
     highly dependent on estimates and that funding needs can 
     fluctuate significantly based on factors largely outside of 
     HHS' control. The agreement notes that there has been a 
     significant increase in the number of Cuban entrants in 
     fiscal year 2022 and through the first quarter of fiscal year 
     2023 who are categorically eligible for ORR-funded services. 
     The agreement expects the Administration to provide timely 
     estimates of funding needs along with the required monthly 
     updates of such eligible populations.
     Victims of Trafficking
       Within the total for this program, the agreement includes 
     no less than $5,000,000 for the National Human Trafficking 
     Hotline.
     Unaccompanied Children
       Confidentiality of Records.--The agreement recognizes that 
     unaccompanied children often share extensive personal 
     information to case managers, clinicians, or other adults 
     while in Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) care, and 
     expects ORR and its grantees and contractors to protect 
     sensitive personal information, behavioral health records, 
     and mental health records consistent with all applicable 
     child welfare laws, regulations, and licensing requirements. 
     The agreement expects ORR to ensure it is complying with its 
     obligation to protect children's private and confidential 
     information, including information in significant incident 
     reports, from unauthorized disclosure.
       Services for Children.--The agreement includes no less than 
     $750,000,000 for post-release services, legal services, and 
     child advocates, pending the availability of funds due to 
     recent uncertainties in referrals and funding needs. The 
     agreement understands the supply of service providers may be 
     constrained in some areas, and encourages ORR to allow 
     grantees to use flexibilities in contracting expenses, to the 
     extent practicable, to build the capacity to ensure the 
     necessary legal requirements are met to provide expanded 
     services to children.
       Sibling Placement.--The agreement continues to direct ORR 
     to place siblings in the same facility, or with the same 
     sponsor, to the extent practicable, and so long as it is 
     appropriate and in the best interest of the child.
       Spend Plan.--The agreement directs ORR to submit a 
     comprehensive spend plan to the Committees every 60 days, 
     incorporating all funding provided in this Act, and previous 
     Acts. The agreement expects the plan to contain a report on 
     facilities per House Report 117-403.
       State-Licensed Shelters.--The agreement continues to direct 
     HHS to prioritize licensed, community-based shelters and 
     programs (including foster care and small group homes) over 
     large-scale shelters, and to notify the Committees prior to 
     all new funding opportunity announcements, grants or contract 
     awards, or plans to lease, rent, or acquire real property. 
     Further, the agreement strongly encourages ORR to more 
     consistently and predictably post funding opportunity 
     announcements, and to provide training and technical 
     assistance to potential new providers with the goal of 
     increasing the percentage of HHS' capacity in such small, 
     community-based programs.
       Unlicensed Facilities.--The agreement notes significant 
     concern with the continued reliance on influx care 
     facilities. The agreement expects that such facilities will 
     only be used as a matter of last resort and at times when 
     there is not sufficient capacity in State-licensed shelters 
     and programs. The placement of children in such facilities 
     when not absolutely necessary is counter to established child 
     welfare best-practices. Further, it drains resources that 
     could otherwise be spent on other activities, including 
     expanding services available to children. Finally, it reduces 
     funding available to help ensure that HHS can expand capacity 
     when it is necessary.
       The agreement expects any unlicensed facilities, when 
     absolutely necessary to operate, to meet the statutory 
     requirements included in this Act. In addition, the agreement 
     includes the directives and reports required under this 
     heading in House Report 117-403.


   PAYMENTS TO STATES FOR THE CHILD CARE AND DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT

       The agreement directs ACF to include in future annual 
     budget justifications amounts spent on Federal administrative 
     expenses, including total FTE and non-personnel allocations, 
     funded through this account.


                CHILDREN AND FAMILIES SERVICES PROGRAMS

       Head Start.--The agreement encourages ACF to consider the 
     unique challenges faced by Head Start grantees in remote and 
     frontier areas when reviewing such grantees' compliance with 
     health and dental screening requirements as part of the 
     Designation Renewal System.
       The agreement also encourages ACF to ensure that all Head 
     Start grantees are aware of any funding opportunities, or 
     funding otherwise available, for making capital improvements 
     to their facilities. Further, ACF is encouraged to 
     standardize this process so all grantees have equal 
     opportunity to apply and are aware of priorities and eligible 
     uses of such funds.
       Preschool Development Grants.--The agreement encourages ACF 
     to support States that choose to develop high-quality and 
     culturally competent dual immersion preschool

[[Page S8891]]

     programs and recommends a focus on training, professional 
     development, and postsecondary education for all caregivers, 
     teachers, and directors to meet the needs of Dual Language 
     Learners through dual language acquisition, engaging 
     culturally and linguistically diverse families, home language 
     support, and culturally and linguistically appropriate 
     assessment.
       Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act Infant Plans of 
     Safe Care.--The agreement continues $60,000,000 to help 
     States continue to develop and implement infant plans of safe 
     care as required by section 106 of the Child Abuse Prevention 
     and Treatment Act. The agreement also encourages HHS to 
     provide technical assistance to States on best practices for 
     developing notification systems that are distinct and 
     separate from the system used in the State to report child 
     abuse and neglect in order to promote a public health 
     response to infants affected by substance use disorders.
       Child Abuse Discretionary Activities.--The agreement 
     includes $2,000,000 for ongoing support for a national child 
     abuse hotline to provide resources and intervention in all 
     modalities, including chat, text, and call, to provide 
     comprehensive capabilities to serve both youth and concerned 
     adults facing child abuse and neglect.
       The agreement includes $2,000,000 for demonstration 
     projects for serving children in foster care who have 
     experienced severe trauma through trauma-informed 
     interventions as directed in House Report 117-403.
       Adoption Opportunities.--The agreement includes $2,000,000 
     for the National Adoption Competency Mental Health Training 
     Initiative.
       Social Services Research and Demonstration.--The agreement 
     continues funding for the Diaper Distribution Demonstration 
     and Research Pilot and expects that $10,000,000 of the funds 
     made available for awards for direct services be made to 
     approved but unfunded applicants of funding opportunity HHS-
     2022-ACF-OCS-EDA-0161, as well as technical assistance and 
     evaluation activities for such grants. In addition, the 
     agreement includes $10,000,000 for a new competition, and 
     directs ACF to prioritize awards to applicants with 
     established partnerships with diaper distributing entities. 
     The agreement further directs ACF to ensure that the grant 
     application period is open for no less than 60 days.
       The agreement includes $2,000,000 for a Medical-Legal 
     Partnership grant program as directed in House Report 117-
     403.
       The agreement includes $2,500,000 for a demonstration 
     program to provide funding to owners of affordable housing 
     properties to offer supportive services for their residents 
     as directed in House Report 117-403.
       The agreement includes $3,000,000 to fund demonstrations of 
     whole-family approaches to service delivery across benefit 
     programs as described in the fiscal year 2023 budget request. 
     ACF is encouraged to prioritize demonstration projects in 
     States with large rural populations and with high rates of 
     poverty.
       Community Project Funding/Congressionally Directed 
     Spending.--The agreement includes $107,848,000 for the 
     projects, and in the amounts, specified in the table titled 
     ``Community Project Funding/Congressionally Directed 
     Spending'' included in this explanatory statement 
     accompanying this division.
       Native American Programs.--The agreement includes 
     $15,000,000 for Native American language preservation 
     activities, and not less than $6,000,000 for language 
     immersion programs authorized by section 803C(b)(7)(A)-(C) of 
     the Native American Programs Act, as amended by the Esther 
     Martinez Native American Language Preservation Act of 2006.
       National Domestic Violence Hotline.--The agreement 
     encourages the Hotline to explore evidence-based best 
     practices for anti-violence intervention and prevention 
     programs.
       Family Violence Prevention and Services.--The agreement 
     recognizes that women and girls of color are often 
     disproportionally impacted by domestic violence and includes 
     up to $7,500,000 for development or enhancement of culturally 
     specific services for survivors of domestic violence and 
     sexual assault.
       The agreement includes $2,000,000 for the Native Hawaiian 
     Resource Center on Domestic Violence.
       The agreement includes up to $5,000,000 for ACF to partner 
     with technical assistance providers for a sexual assault 
     technical assistance initiative as directed in House Report 
     117-403.


                   PROMOTING SAFE AND STABLE FAMILIES

       Family First Clearinghouse.--The agreement provides an 
     increase of $4,000,000 to support evaluation and technical 
     assistance for the evaluation of child and family services 
     programs and encourages ACF, through the Office of Planning, 
     Research, and Evaluation (OPRE), to improve transparency and 
     establish technical assistance procedures to advise programs 
     on effective application metrics and best practices, informed 
     by research standards and accepted programs for the 
     clearinghouse.

               Administration for Community Living (ACL)


                 AGING AND DISABILITY SERVICES PROGRAMS

       Protection of Vulnerable Older Americans.--Within the 
     total, the agreement includes an increase of $2,000,000 for 
     the long-term care ombudsman program.
       National Family Caregiver Strategy.--The agreement 
     continues to provide $400,000 for the Family Caregiving 
     Advisory Council.
       Aging Network Support Activities.--Within the total, the 
     agreement provides $8,500,000 to the Holocaust Survivor's 
     Assistance program.
       The agreement includes $5,500,000 for the Care Corps grant 
     program, with an increase of $1,500,000 for subgrants to 
     programs that are capable of building a network of screened 
     and trained volunteer chaperones to accompany older adults 
     and adults with disabilities in need to and from non-
     emergency medical appointments and outpatient procedures.
       The agreement includes $2,000,000 for a direct care 
     workforce demonstration project to identify and reduce 
     barriers to entry for a diverse and high-quality direct care 
     workforce, and to explore new strategies for the recruitment, 
     retention, and advancement opportunities needed to attract or 
     retain direct care workers.
       The agreement includes $1,000,000 for an Interagency 
     Coordinating Committee on Healthy Aging and Age-Friendly 
     Communities as directed in House Report 117-403.
       The agreement includes $5,000,000 for a Research, 
     Demonstration, and Evaluation Center for the Aging Network as 
     directed in House Report 117-403.
       Alzheimer's Disease Program.--Within the total, the 
     agreement includes no less than $2,000,000 for the National 
     Alzheimer's Call Center.
       Elder Rights Support.--The agreement includes $15,000,000 
     for the nationwide Adult Protective Services formula grant 
     program.
       Paralysis Resource Center (PRC).--Within the total, the 
     agreement directs not less than $10,000,000 to the National 
     PRC.
       Developmental Disabilities Programs.--Within the total, the 
     agreement includes not less than $800,000 for technical 
     assistance and training for the State Councils on 
     Developmental Disabilities.
       Community Project Funding/Congressionally Directed 
     Spending.--The agreement includes $41,644,000 for the 
     projects, and in the amounts, specified in the table titled 
     ``Community Project Funding/Congressionally Directed 
     Spending'' included in this explanatory statement 
     accompanying this division.

                        Office of the Secretary


                    GENERAL DEPARTMENTAL MANAGEMENT

       Alzheimer's Disease National Plan.--The agreement notes the 
     update of the National Plan to include promotion of healthy 
     aging and directs the Secretary to include specific 
     strategies to achieve this goal and to align specific, 
     measurable, time-bound milestones with budget requests. 
     Milestones should be developed in collaboration with a broad 
     group of non-governmental stakeholders focused on each of the 
     risk factors for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.
       Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR).--The agreement supports the 
     Administration's proposal to combat antibiotic-resistant 
     infections by encouraging the development of innovative 
     antimicrobial drugs. The success of similar creative funding 
     initiatives, such as Project BioShield, show the need for 
     pursuing unique approaches to preparing for and countering 
     serious threats to human health. The agreement directs the 
     Department to brief the Committees within 60 days of 
     enactment of this Act on the requirements for implementation 
     of the proposal. The agreement also directs OASH, NIH, ASPR/
     BARDA, CDC, and AHRQ to jointly brief the Committees no later 
     than 30 days after the enactment of this Act and each annual 
     Appropriations Act thereafter detailing how HHS and its 
     agencies are coordinating their AMR-related efforts, as well 
     as domestic and international AMR trends. The briefing should 
     include a comparison of actual performance for the most 
     recent years available against the National targets 
     established in the current National Action Plan for 
     Combatting Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria and whether those 
     goals were achieved in the last fiscal year. Building on 
     these results, agencies are directed to outline in briefings 
     the focus of their plans for the next two fiscal years and 
     how these are connected to longer-term objectives included in 
     the current National Action Plan.
       Bereavement and Grief Services.--The agreement directs the 
     Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation 
     (ASPE), in collaboration with the Director of the CDC, the 
     Director of the NIH, and the Assistant Secretary for Mental 
     Health and Substance Use, to develop a report on the scope of 
     need for high quality bereavement and grief services no later 
     than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act. The 
     dual crises of COVID-19 and addiction have increased the need 
     for bereavement care, and the agreement urges ASPE to 
     evaluate the growing need for these services. The report 
     shall provide a holistic evaluation of populations impacted 
     and the scope of necessary interventions, including: (1) the 
     prevalence of certain disorders (e.g. post-traumatic stress 
     disorder, complicated grief) that are resulting from both 
     emergencies; (2) the need for support for health care workers 
     and other highly impacted populations; and (3) the prevalence 
     and outcomes of bereavement and grief services. Part of this 
     work should focus on the role of hospice programs in 
     supporting community bereavement and grief services.
       Brain Aneurysm.--The agreement directs the Secretary to 
     develop best practices on brain aneurysm detection and 
     rupture for first responders, emergency room physicians, 
     primary care physicians, nurses, and advanced practice 
     providers.
       Broadband Deployment Locations Map.--The agreement directs 
     the Department to submit a report to the Committees not less 
     than 120 days after the date of enactment of this Act

[[Page S8892]]

     detailing the steps it has taken to coordinate with the 
     Federal Communications Commission and carry out its 
     responsibilities to implement the Deployment Locations Map 
     pursuant to Section 60105 of the Infrastructure Investment 
     and Jobs Act (P.L. 117-58).
       Children's Interagency Coordinating Council.--The agreement 
     includes $3,000,000 for the Children's Interagency 
     Coordinating Council to foster greater coordination and 
     transparency on child policy across agencies. The Council 
     shall enter into agreement with NASEM to prepare a report to 
     Congress analyzing federal policies that have affected child 
     poverty. The study should rely on the U.S. Census Bureau 
     Supplemental Poverty Measure, among other sources of 
     information. The Council will also examine and periodically 
     report on a broad array of cross-cutting issues affecting 
     child well-being.
       Ending the HIV Epidemic.--The agreement continues support 
     for this initiative but is concerned by a lack of 
     quantifiable data showing outcomes of a program started in 
     2019. Therefore, the agreement directs HHS to: (1) provide 
     a spend plan to the Committees no later than 60 days after 
     enactment of this Act, to include resource allocation by 
     State; (2) brief the Committees on the fiscal year 2023 
     plans no later than 90 days after enactment of this Act; 
     (3) provide the Committees an update on the program's 
     performance data since the beginning of the Initiative 
     through the latest available data, making sure to address 
     each of the Initiative's goals and performance metrics, no 
     later than 180 days after enactment of this Act and 
     updated annually throughout the life of the Initiative.
       Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV).--The agreement expects OASH to 
     develop a national strategic plan for the treatment and 
     prevention of HSV types 1 and 2 as directed by P.L. 117-103. 
     The agreement directs the department to update the Committees 
     on this work within 30 days of enactment of this Act.
       Federal Funds.--The agreement includes an increase of 
     $8,000,000 for administrative resources necessary for the 
     operation of the Department.
       Food as Medicine.--The agreement directs the Secretary, in 
     consultation with other Federal agencies, to develop and 
     implement a Federal strategy to reduce nutrition-related 
     chronic diseases and food insecurity and improve health and 
     racial equity in the U.S., including diet-related research 
     and programmatic efforts that increase Americans' access to 
     food as medicine, and healthy, nutritious, organic, and 
     affordable foods, especially in at-risk communities. The 
     agreement includes $2,000,000 in the Office of the Secretary 
     to establish a Food as Medicine pilot program, an integrative 
     model for healthcare, that addresses food insecurity, social 
     isolation, and chronic disease to advance health and racial 
     equity. The model shall include the following as defined by 
     the Secretary: a prescription of healthy produce; clinical 
     nutrition training for healthcare providers; and nutritional 
     and behavioral support for patients to integrate food 
     interventions into daily habits. The Secretary may enter into 
     competitively awarded contracts or cooperative agreements 
     with, or provide grants to, public or private organizations 
     or agencies within varying States. Additionally, the 
     agreement requests a report within one year of the date of 
     enactment of this Act on the implementation of the Federal 
     strategy and an examination of the status of each pilot 
     project; a chart delineating funding provided to each pilot 
     and how much of each pilot's funds remain unobligated; the 
     results of the evaluation completed during the fiscal year; 
     and to the maximum extent practicable the impact of the pilot 
     project on appropriate health, nutrition, and associated 
     behavioral outcomes among patients participating in the pilot 
     project baseline information relevant to the stated goals and 
     desired outcomes of the pilot project; and equivalent 
     information about similar or identical measures among control 
     or comparison groups that did not participate in the pilot 
     project. Reports should continue annually until all funding 
     is expended.
       KidneyX.--The agreement includes $5,000,000 to continue 
     KidneyX.
       Newborn Screening.--The agreement includes $1,000,000 for 
     the Department to commission a study with the National 
     Academy of Medicine to examine the current status of Newborn 
     Screening systems, processes, and research and make 
     recommendations for future improvements, as described under 
     this heading in House Report 117-403.
       Nonrecurring Expenses Fund.--The agreement directs HHS to 
     prioritize current construction projects for completion, 
     specifically the CDC NIOSH facility in Cincinnati, Ohio, and 
     those facilities for the Indian Health Service and FDA. The 
     agreement further directs HHS to provide quarterly reports 
     for all ongoing projects. The report shall include the 
     following for each project: agency project is funded under; a 
     description for each project; the date the project was 
     notified to the Committees; total obligations to date; 
     obligations for the prior fiscal year; anticipated 
     obligations for current fiscal year; and any expected future 
     obligations.For any project ongoing more than 3 years, the 
     report should include a narrative describing the cause for 
     delay and steps being taken by the agency to ensure prompt 
     completion.
       Further, upon CDC's completion of the purchase of property 
     for the new mine safety research facility, the agreement 
     directs HHS to fund the design and construction of the 
     facility from the Nonrecurring Expenses Fund.
       Obligation Reports.--The agreement directs the Secretary to 
     submit electronically to the Committees an excel table 
     detailing the obligations made in the most recent quarter for 
     each office and activity funded under this appropriation not 
     later than 30 days after the end of each quarter.
       Office of the Assistant Secretary for Financial Resources 
     (ASFR).--The agreement includes an additional $300,000 to 
     hire an appropriations attorney and directs ASFR to work with 
     OGC to expeditiously fill this position upon enactment of 
     this Act.
       Office of the General Counsel (OGC).-- The agreement 
     repeats strong concerns made in the fiscal year 2022 
     explanatory statement that OGC must do a better job of 
     supporting Congressional requests for technical assistance on 
     matters that affect the Department. The agreement directs the 
     General Counsel to prioritize the Committees' requests for 
     legal and administrative information.
       Pain Management.--The agreement remains deeply concerned 
     about the epidemic of acute and chronic pain and its 
     interrelationship with the opioid crisis. Within 180 days of 
     the date of enactment of this Act, the Department is directed 
     to provide the Committees a report on its progress to 
     disseminate the HHS Pain Management Best Practices Inter-
     Agency Task Force report recommendations and an estimate of 
     the resources required to generate a public awareness 
     campaign on the differences between acute and chronic pain 
     and the full range of treatment options.
       Preventing Harmful Exposure to Phthalates.--The agreement 
     directs the Secretary to submit to the Committees within 180 
     days of the date of enactment of this Act a public report 
     outlining next steps for protecting the public from exposure 
     to phthalates in food, including details on how and where 
     these chemicals are getting into the food supply.
       Questions for the Record.--The agreement notes the 
     inclusion of section 527 of this Act, which requires the 
     Department to provide answers to questions submitted for the 
     record within 45 business days after receipt. The agreement 
     expects the Secretary to notify the Committee at least 7 days 
     in advance if the Department does not anticipate meeting this 
     statutory requirement.
       Staffing Reports.--The agreement includes a general 
     provision requiring the Department to submit a biannual 
     staffing report to the Committees. The Excel table shall 
     include: the names, titles, grades, agencies, and divisions 
     of all of the political appointees, special government 
     employees, and detailees that were employed by or assigned to 
     the Department during the previous 180 days.
       Stillbirth Task Force.--The agreement includes an increase 
     of $1,000,000 for this activity as described under this 
     heading in House Report 117-403.
       Teen Pregnancy Prevention Program Evidence Review.--The 
     agreement includes $900,000 for the Assistant Secretary for 
     Planning and Evaluation to conduct an independent, 
     systematic, rigorous review of evaluation studies on such 
     programs.
       Tribal Set-aside.--The agreement includes an increase of 
     $2,000,000 for a Tribal set-aside within the Minority HIV/
     AIDS Prevention and Treatment program.
       U.S.-Mexico Border Health Commission.--The agreement 
     includes an increase of $500,000.
     Office of Minority Health (OMH)
       Achieving Equitable Maternal Health Outcomes.--The 
     agreement includes $7,000,000 for awards to community based 
     and other eligible organizations located in geographic areas 
     with high rates of adverse maternal health outcomes, 
     particularly among racial/ethnic minority families, as 
     proposed in the fiscal year 2023 Congressional Justification.
       Center for Indigenous Innovation and Health Equity.--The 
     agreement continues to recognize the importance of advancing 
     Indigenous solutions to achieve health equity and includes an 
     increase of $1,000,000 to support the work of the Center for 
     Indigenous Innovation and Health Equity.
       Language Access Services.--The agreement includes an 
     increase of $1,000,000 to research, develop, and test methods 
     of informing limited English proficient individuals about 
     their right to and the availability of language access 
     services, in accordance with directives in House Report 117-
     403.
       Lupus Initiative.--The agreement includes $2,000,000 for 
     the National Lupus Outreach and Clinical Trial Education 
     Program and the goal of increasing minority participation in 
     lupus clinical trials. OMH should continue to develop public-
     private partnerships, validate existing action plans, and 
     engage the lupus community in order to facilitate the use and 
     development of action plans to increase participation in 
     clinical trials for all minority populations at highest risk 
     of lupus including, Native Americans, Asians, Hispanics, and 
     African Americans.
       Minority Leaders Development Program.--The agreement 
     includes an increase of $1,000,000 for the Minority Leaders 
     Development Program, as described under this heading in House 
     Report 117-403.
     Office on Women's Health (OWH)
       Breastfeeding Analysis.--The agreement includes $1,250,000 
     for OWH to enter into an agreement with NASEM to provide an 
     evidence-based, non-partisan analysis of the macroeconomic, 
     health, and social costs of U.S. breastfeeding rates and 
     national breastfeeding goals, as described under this heading 
     in House Report 117-403.
       Combatting Violence Against Women.--The agreement includes 
     $10,100,000 for the State partnership initiative to combat 
     violence against women.

[[Page S8893]]

       Interagency Coordinating Committee on the Promotion of 
     Optimal Birth Outcomes.--The agreement includes an increase 
     of $1,000,000 for the Interagency Coordinating Committee on 
     the Promotion of Optimal Birth Outcomes to oversee and 
     coordinate the HHS Plan to Improve Maternal Health in 
     America, as described in, and consistent with, Healthy Women, 
     Healthy Pregnancies, Healthy Futures: Action Plan to Improve 
     Maternal Health in America and as described under this 
     heading in House Report 117-403.
       Pregnant Women and Lactating Women Advisory Committee.--The 
     agreement includes $200,000 for the creation of an Advisory 
     Committee to monitor and report on the implementation of the 
     recommendations from the Task Force on Research Specific to 
     Pregnant Women and Lactating Women, as described under this 
     heading in House Report 117-403.
       Women's Health Research Study.--The agreement directs the 
     Secretary to coordinate with NIH and NASEM in support of 
     research that explores persistent gaps of knowledge of 
     women's health.


 OFFICE OF THE NATIONAL COORDINATOR FOR HEALTH INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY 
                                 (ONC)

       The agreement includes not less than $5,000,000 to support 
     interoperability and information sharing efforts related to 
     the implementation of Fast Healthcare Interoperability 
     Resources standards or associated implementation standards.
       The agreement notes the general provision limiting funds 
     for actions related to promulgation or adoption of a standard 
     providing for the assignment of a unique health identifier 
     does not prohibit the Department from examining the issues 
     around patient matching, and urges ONC to work with industry 
     to develop matching standards that prioritize 
     interoperability, patient safety, and patient privacy. The 
     agreement directs ONC to promptly notify the Committees of 
     any limitations with any directives included in House Report 
     117-403 or this explanatory statement.


            PUBLIC HEALTH AND SOCIAL SERVICES EMERGENCY FUND

     Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and 
         Response (ASPR)
       AI-enabled Pandemic Preparedness and Response.--The 
     agreement recognizes that advancements in artificial 
     intelligence (AI) show promise for the biosecurity of the 
     U.S. The agreement directs ASPR to provide a report to the 
     Committees no later than 120 days after enactment of this Act 
     on the feasibility of creating an AI-enabled Pandemic 
     Preparedness and Response Program, to be led by ASPR, 
     supported by the Departments of Energy and Defense as 
     necessary. The program would adopt and field AI programs to 
     shield the nation against current and future bio-threats of 
     any origin. It would use AI to develop and deliver 
     capabilities of high value in the areas of accelerated 
     vaccines, rapid therapeutics, global bio-threat surveillance, 
     and rapid fielding. ASPR is directed to collaborate with the 
     OCIO Chief AI Office on feasibility plans to setup this 
     program, to include a professional judgement budget for the 
     first three years.
       CBRN Threats.--The agreement urges ASPR to prioritize the 
     development and stockpiling of critical CBRN vaccines, 
     treatments, diagnostics, and personal protective equipment 
     (PPE) to ensure there is no disruption in the availability of 
     these life-saving medical countermeasures (MCMs) in the 
     Strategic National Stockpile. The agreement encourages ASPR 
     to engage more frequently with private sector partners in the 
     Broad Agency Announcement process to speed the development of 
     new MCMs and stockpiling of existing MCMs against CBRN 
     threats.
       Commercialization of COVID-19 Vaccines and Therapeutics.--
     The agreement directs ASPR to provide a briefing to the 
     Committees on the Department's plan to transition COVID-19 
     vaccines and therapeutics with FDA approval to the commercial 
     market. Such briefing shall include a timeline for each 
     product, for products that have FDA approval and those that 
     have emergency use authorization; possible costs associated 
     with a transition from Federal purchasing to the private 
     market; and details about how non-Federal purchasers will 
     compete in the market. Such briefing shall be provided 
     within 30 days of enactment of this Act and every 6 months 
     thereafter until transition to the commercial market is 
     complete.
       Ensuring the Availability of Next Generation Masks and 
     Respirators.--The agreement urges ASPR to assess its 
     stockpile of reusable respirators and to conduct scenario-
     based modeling studies to determine the appropriate amount 
     needed for the stockpile. ASPR is urged to consider creating 
     Target Product Profiles (TPP) for respirators and masks and a 
     process of recurring competitive bids for products meeting 
     the increasingly stringent TPPs. ASPR is directed to submit a 
     report to the Committees on these activities within 120 days 
     of enactment of this Act.
       Far-forward Patient Care.--The agreement notes that 
     advancing and expanding far-forward patient care can 
     significantly improve the delivery, cost, and outcomes for 
     patients injured by natural or human-caused disasters. 
     Conducting traditional medical care closer to the point of 
     injury can also have positive downstream effects on routine 
     medical operations. ASPR is encouraged to consider 
     establishing a Federally Funded Research and Development 
     Center (FFRDC) in partnership with an academic medical center 
     to improve far-forward care, transportation and coordination, 
     and advanced technology that can provide additional solutions 
     to future patient care. Furthermore, ASPR is also encouraged 
     to consider leveraging this FFRDC to support the National 
     Disaster Medical System by utilizing the experience and 
     innovations produced by the Center.
       Insulin Domestic Supply Chain.--The agreement encourages 
     ASPR to review the potential for establishing an Insulin 
     Center of Excellence, in recognition of the importance of 
     developing a domestic supply chain for insulin. Such a Center 
     would promote lower prices in the U.S. by addressing the 
     entire life cycle of insulin product and development, 
     including research and development, clinical trials, 
     production, and post-market studies.
       Medical Distribution Supply Chain Task Force.--The 
     agreement recognizes the importance of public-private 
     partnerships in COVID-19 response efforts and recommends 
     establishing a task force where government agencies and 
     distribution experts can proactively prepare for the next 
     public health emergency. The task force would allow 
     pharmaceutical and medical distributors to participate in 
     ongoing emergency preparedness planning and maintain 
     relationships with government agencies, conduct tabletop 
     exercises and emergency response planning, and report their 
     work and findings to Congress.
       Reporting.--In addition to the directives included in House 
     Report 117-403, the agreement directs ASPR to include a 
     summary of the details of its monthly obligations to the 
     Committees in its monthly obligation report.
     Operations
       The agreement includes $34,376,000 for activities within 
     the Assistant Secretary's Immediate Office; the Office of the 
     Chief Operating Officer; the Office of Acquisitions 
     Management, Contracts, and Grants; and the Office of the 
     Financial Planning and Analysis.
     HHS Coordination Operations and Response Element (H-CORE)
       The agreement includes $75,000,000 to establish annual 
     funding for operational coordination of readiness and 
     response efforts. Within 30 days of enactment of this Act, 
     the agreement directs the Secretary to provide the Committees 
     with a detailed spend plan for fiscal year 2023 activities 
     and to brief the Committees at least quarterly thereafter.
     Preparedness and Emergency Operations
       The agreement includes $31,154,000 for Preparedness and 
     Emergency Operations.
       National Emergency Tele-critical Care Network (NETCCN).--
     The agreement includes $6,500,000 to continue clinical 
     deployments for the NETCCN, which has helped health systems 
     respond to the COVID-19 public health emergency by accessing 
     skilled telehealth providers, and directs ASPR to make NETCCN 
     partners available to respond to other public health 
     emergencies and disaster response efforts on an as-needed 
     basis. The agreement directs ASPR to submit a spend plan and 
     report to the Committees within 60 days of enactment of this 
     Act on its plans for fully assuming and maintaining 
     operations of the NETCCN from the U.S. Medical Research and 
     Development Command Telemedicine and Advance Technology 
     Research Center.
     National Disaster Medical System
       Mission Zero.--The agreement includes $4,000,000 for 
     civilian trauma centers to train and incorporate military 
     trauma care providers and teams into care centers.
       Pediatric Disaster Care.--The agreement includes $7,000,000 
     for the Pediatric Disaster Care Centers of Excellence.
       Public Health Preparedness Equipment.--The agreement 
     includes $20,000,000 for ASPR to invest in next generation 
     air mobility solutions that will ensure more cost-effective 
     health delivery systems.
     Hospital Preparedness Program
       The agreement includes $305,055,000 for the Hospital 
     Preparedness Program (HPP).
       EMS Preparedness and Response Workforce Shortage.--The 
     agreement urges ASPR to address the crippling EMS workforce 
     shortage, including in underserved, rural, and tribal areas 
     and/or address health disparities related to accessing 
     prehospital ground ambulance healthcare services, including 
     critical care transport.
       Hospital Preparedness Program Cooperative Agreements.--The 
     agreement includes $240,000,000 for critical support to 
     State, local, and regional partners to advance health care 
     system preparedness and response.
       National Special Pathogen System (NSPS).--The agreement 
     includes $7,500,000 for the National Emerging Special 
     Pathogens Training and Education Center (NETEC) and 
     $21,000,000 to increase support for the Regional Emerging 
     Special Pathogen Treatment Centers (RESPTCs) Program and 
     Special Pathogen Treatment Centers (SPTCs) to prepare for 
     future pandemic threats. The agreement requests both a 
     written report and a briefing, within 90 days of enactment of 
     this Act, and annual reports and briefings thereafter, on 
     progress in establishing a robust NSPS and integrating NSPS 
     with other health care delivery systems of care for 
     emergencies, such as the trauma system.
       Real-time Hospital Capacity Data.--The agreement continues 
     to support ASPR's preparedness efforts and encourages 
     increased support of real-time data tracking to improve 
     overarching capacity issues experienced by hospitals and 
     providers in all 50

[[Page S8894]]

     States and the territories during community, State, regional, 
     and national emergencies. The agreement urges ASPR to 
     identify lessons learned and tools that have been developed 
     for hospital data collection during the COVID-19 response for 
     all-hazards hospital data collection and public health 
     situational awareness.
       Regional Disaster Health Response System.--The agreement 
     includes $7,000,000 for these cooperative agreements.
     Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority 
         (BARDA)
       Antimicrobial and Antifungal Resistance.--The agreement 
     continues to support advanced research and development of 
     broad-spectrum antimicrobials and novel antifungal therapies, 
     particularly for multi-drug resistant pathogens, and next-
     generation therapeutics that address the increasing incidence 
     of antimicrobial resistance. The agreement requests the 
     Department provide a briefing to the Committees within 60 
     days of enactment of this Act that details the budgetary 
     requirements for implementation of the Administration's 
     proposal to combat antibiotic-resistant infections. The 
     agreement directs ASPR to work with other HHS agencies to 
     provide the annual briefing described under the section of 
     the explanatory statement dealing with the Office of the 
     Secretary within 30 days of enactment of this Act.
       Blood Supply.--The agreement encourages further development 
     of freeze-dried hemostatic products, especially platelet-
     derived products, suitable for treatment of hemorrhagic 
     disease, and use in general surgery, obstetrics, and trauma. 
     The agreement further urges that, as a stopgap measure and 
     pilot project, the Assistant Secretary, as soon as feasibly 
     possible, support a pilot project to expand the manufacturing 
     base for these products to develop adequate infrastructure to 
     support a national inventory to accommodate predicted needs 
     so that in the event of an overwhelming number of casualties, 
     these research products could be used to fill the capability 
     gap under the auspices of the Emergency Use Authorization 
     Act.
       Infectious Disease Outbreaks with Pandemic Potential.--The 
     agreement encourages BARDA to engage in public-private 
     partnerships to support advanced research and development of 
     innovative platform technologies and MCM programs focused on, 
     but not limited to, vaccines, therapeutics, and other MCMs 
     for emerging infectious diseases, including novel pathogens 
     and viral families with pandemic potential. The agreement 
     encourages ASPR to collaborate with other appropriate Federal 
     departments, agencies, and offices, the private sector, and 
     other stakeholders to identify promising MCMs and platform 
     technologies that can be leveraged to address a range of 
     potential pathogens, including virus families with 
     significant pandemic potential. The agreement directs BARDA 
     to prioritize expeditious development of such MCMs, 
     innovative platform technologies, and novel multi-modal 
     methods, and requests a briefing within 90 days of enactment 
     of this Act to provide an update on the status of MCMs and 
     platforms to address these threats.
       Infectious Diseases.--The agreement supports robust funding 
     for increased work to prepare for emerging infectious disease 
     outbreaks and other naturally occurring threats to global 
     health security. The agreement encourages BARDA to account 
     for the constraints of different settings in its funding 
     decisions to foster first-line tools that have wide 
     applicability for many geographies, including low-resource 
     settings in the U.S. and globally which may lack advanced 
     health infrastructure. ASPR is encouraged to continue 
     reporting and delineating its spending on emerging infectious 
     diseases, pandemic influenza, and AR in its annual 5-year 
     budget plan for MCM development. The agreement urges BARDA to 
     publicly and regularly provide updated pathogen, product, and 
     project-level data for all its funding, which it has done on 
     its website for COVID-19 MCM investments, and to provide 
     underlying data in tabular form. Such reporting helps clarify 
     how ASPR is considering naturally occurring threats, 
     including AR, in relation to other priority areas of MCM 
     development, particularly given the inclusion of naturally 
     occurring threats in the Strategic Initiatives section of the 
     Pandemic and All-Hazards Preparedness and Advancing 
     Innovation Act (P.L. 116-22).
       Nasal COVID-19 Vaccines.--The agreement notes with concern 
     that the nation is falling behind other countries in the 
     development and approval of COVID-19 nasal vaccines. The 
     agreement urges BARDA to accelerate clinical trial 
     opportunities to achieve FDA approval for a nasal COVID-19 
     vaccine for which there is already existing clinical efficacy 
     and safety data.
       Trusted Domestic Vaccine Supplier Capability.--The 
     agreement continues to recognize the need for domestic 
     manufacturing of key biological starting materials (KSM), 
     including plasmid DNA and mRNA, antibodies, and other medical 
     countermeasures, to ensure timely response to unanticipated 
     health emergencies. Therefore, the agreement encourages the 
     Department to expand domestic manufacturing of KSMs and 
     collaborate with U.S. companies that have pharmaceutical 
     capabilities to ensure the development and stockpiling of 
     synthesized medicines for future pandemics and biothreats.
     Policy and Planning
       The agreement includes $14,877,000 for Policy and Planning.
     Project BioShield Special Reserve Fund
       The agreement includes $820,000,000 for Project BioShield.
     Strategic National Stockpile (SNS)
       The agreement includes $965,000,000 for the SNS.
       Acute Radiation Syndrome (ARS).--The agreement notes with 
     concern that the SNS has not prioritized fully achieving the 
     stockpiling requirement for FDA-approved MCMs for ARS. The 
     agreement requests a report be provided to the Committees 
     within 30 days of enactment of this Act that includes an 
     update on: (i) existing procurements and stockpiled MCMs for 
     ARS; (ii) ASPR's plans to ensure existing ARS products are 
     maintained; and (iii) how ASPR intends to meet the 
     Administration's goal of investing in U.S. jobs and 
     infrastructure to ensure the continued availability of a 
     diverse set of ARS countermeasures.
       Distributor Interoperability for the SNS.--The agreement 
     urges the SNS to work with all U.S.-based medical and 
     pharmaceutical distributors on developing and maintaining IT 
     connectivity. The agreement recognizes that distributors need 
     to have and implement technology for IT interoperability so 
     that their systems can connect with the SNS/HHS systems to 
     participate in distribution efforts with the government.
       Made in America Strategic National Stockpile.--The 
     agreement notes concern about the nation's limited 
     infrastructure to produce essential products such as medical 
     devices, medical equipment, pharmaceuticals, and PPE, such as 
     syringes. The agreement strongly urges the Secretary to 
     develop a long-term sustainable procurement plan that gives 
     preference to and results in purchases directly from domestic 
     manufacturers of PPE or PPE raw materials to the maximum 
     extent practicable.
       Replenishing Influenza Antivirals.--The agreement strongly 
     supports the Department's multi-year strategic initiative to 
     supplement shelf-life extended flu antivirals in the 
     stockpile with therapeutics that have not undergone 
     extensions, in order to meet full stockpiling requirements. 
     ASPR is urged to prioritize acquiring influenza antivirals to 
     the full stockpiling requirements that can be safely used in 
     children under 12 and people that are pregnant.
       Shelf-life Extension Program (SLEP) for Antivirals.--The 
     agreement notes with concern that efforts to achieve cost 
     savings through SLEP could negatively impact distribution of, 
     patient adherence to, and ultimately consumer confidence in 
     certain products in the SNS, particularly aged antivirals. 
     Not later than 180 days after enactment of this Act, the 
     Assistant Secretary is directed to conduct an audit of the 
     SLEP for antivirals in the SNS and provide recommendations to 
     safeguard SNS's ability to effectively respond to future 
     severe influenza outbreaks in the U.S.
       Supply Chain Risk Assessment.--The agreement urges ASPR to 
     prioritize the identification of upstream pharmaceutical 
     supply chain risks to reduce medicine supply disruptions 
     while also providing evidence to inform public investment and 
     policy reforms that build more resilience in the medical 
     supply chain. This includes the ability to leverage 
     integrated data analytics from a range of data sources to 
     identify key risk indicators and improve both demand 
     forecasting and capacity management. The agreement directs 
     ASPR to identify opportunities to support the development of 
     capabilities to continually assess the global supply chain 
     for essential medicines that covers source location, volume, 
     and the number of facilities involved in the product of APIs, 
     finished dosage forms, and other required components.
     Medical Reserve Corps (MRCs)
       The agreement provides $6,240,000 for the Medical Reserve 
     Corps Program. Funding for MRCs has historically been 
     provided to local units quickly and effectively, thereby 
     allowing for grants to help build and sustain local 
     communities' ability to prepare for and respond to 
     emergencies. The agreement encourages ASPR to continue this 
     locally driven approach and to allocate funding via 
     established mechanisms that provide funds directly to local 
     MRC unit, which are made up of representatives from their 
     communities.
     Preparedness and Response Innovation
       The agreement provides $3,080,000 for a bilateral 
     cooperative program with the Government of Israel for the 
     development of health technologies.
     Cybersecurity
       The agreement provides $100,000,000 for information 
     technology cybersecurity in the Office of the Chief 
     Information Officer and HHS-wide to strengthen the 
     Department's cybersecurity posture. These funds provide for 
     continuous monitoring and security incident response 
     coordination for the Department's computer systems and 
     networks. The increase is expected to support the advancement 
     of existing, and adoption of new, security technologies to 
     protect the Department's information from the evolving number 
     and complexity of cyber threats. The agreement directs the 
     Department to identify ways to mitigate increasing 
     cybersecurity threats that pose risks to HHS critical 
     functions, services, and data, and provide a report with 
     these recommendations to the Committees no later than 120 
     days after enactment of this Act.
       In addition, the agreement provides $21,900,000 for HHS 
     Protect for the activities directed in House Report 117-403.

[[Page S8895]]

  

     Office of National Security
       The agreement provides $8,983,000 for the Office of 
     National Security.
     Pandemic Influenza Preparedness
       The agreement provides $335,000,000 for the pandemic 
     influenza preparedness program.


              ADVANCED RESEARCH PROJECTS AGENCY FOR HEALTH

       The agreement includes $1,500,000,000 for ARPA-H. The 
     agreement strongly encourages HHS to collaborate with the 
     Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) to develop 
     the foundational policies, procedures, and staff training for 
     ARPA-H employees. The agreement believes ARPA-H will require 
     a very different culture and mission than NIH's other 27 
     Institutes and Centers. To foster the development of an 
     entrepreneurial culture, the agreement expects ARPA-H to be 
     physically located away from the main NIH campus. The 
     agreement directs NIH to brief the Committees no later than 
     30 days prior to conducting the location search on its 
     criteria and the Committees should be notified of the 
     decision no less than 5 days prior to a location being 
     announced publicly. While the NIH workforce is composed of 
     dedicated, talented, and frequently brilliant scientists, 
     recruitment from the existing NIH workforce should be 
     avoided. Instead, the agreement recommends that ARPA-H 
     consider recruiting from industry, academia, and think tanks, 
     as well as from proven advanced research project 
     organizations. The agreement directs ARPA-H to provide 
     quarterly briefings to the Committees on its establishment 
     process, hiring, and scientific priorities and progress. 
     These briefings should specifically address how its 
     activities may advance biomedical research and development 
     and the mission to create breakthrough health 
     technologies, as well as how to balance long-term 
     scientific challenges with short-term research goals.

                           General Provisions

       Prevention and Public Health Fund.--The agreement includes 
     the following allocation of amounts from the Prevention and 
     Public Health Fund.

                    PREVENTION AND PUBLIC HEALTH FUND
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              FY 2023
              Agency                   Budget Activity       Agreement
------------------------------------------------------------------------
ACL...............................  Alzheimer's Disease      $14,700,000
                                     Program.
ACL...............................  Chronic Disease Self-      8,000,000
                                     Management.
ACL...............................  Falls Prevention....       5,000,000
CDC...............................  Hospitals Promoting        9,750,000
                                     Breastfeeding.
CDC...............................  Diabetes............      52,275,000
CDC...............................  Epidemiology and          40,000,000
                                     Laboratory Capacity
                                     Grants.
CDC...............................  Healthcare                12,000,000
                                     Associated
                                     Infections.
CDC...............................  Heart Disease &           57,075,000
                                     Stroke Prevention
                                     Program.
CDC...............................  Million Hearts             5,000,000
                                     Program.
CDC...............................  Office of Smoking        125,850,000
                                     and Health.
CDC...............................  Preventative Health      160,000,000
                                     and Health Services
                                     Block Grants.
CDC...............................  Section 317              419,350,000
                                     Immunization Grants.
CDC...............................  Lead Poisoning            17,000,000
                                     Prevention.
CDC...............................  Early Care                 5,000,000
                                     Collaboratives.
SAMHSA............................  Garrett Lee Smith-        12,000,000
                                     Youth Suicide
                                     Prevention.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       The agreement modifies a provision to rescind unobligated 
     balances.

                               TITLE III

                        DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

                    Education for the Disadvantaged

       School Improvement.--The Department shall brief the 
     Committees not later than 60 days after enactment of this Act 
     on the Department's actions and plans for addressing the 
     challenges identified in GAO's report on school improvement 
     (GAO-21-199) and assisting state educational agencies (SEAs) 
     and local educational agencies (LEAs) with implementing all 
     of the school improvement requirements of the Elementary and 
     Secondary Education Act (ESEA), including meaningful resource 
     allocation reviews. The Department shall also increase 
     transparency on the amount reserved by each State for the 
     school improvement set-aside, method of distribution to 
     eligible LEAs, uses of such funds and the Department's 
     actions and plans for supporting SEA and LEA implementation 
     of ESEA school improvement requirements, including resource 
     equity requirements, in the fiscal year 2024 and future 
     Congressional Justifications.
       Title I-A-Funded Services for Students Experiencing 
     Homelessness.--The Department shall provide technical 
     assistance to state and local Title I directors on the 
     requirements and uses of funds under section 1113(c)(3)(A) to 
     assist LEAs in effectively using such funds to support 
     students experiencing homelessness. In addition, the 
     Department shall describe actions taken and planned to 
     address these issues in the fiscal year 2024 and future 
     Congressional Justifications and work with SEAs to increase 
     transparency on amounts reserved by LEAs under section 
     1113(c)(3)(A).

                      School Improvement Programs

       Alaska Native Education Equity.--The Department is directed 
     to make every effort to ensure that grants are awarded well 
     in advance of the school year, to maximize grantees' ability 
     to hire the necessary staff and have their programs in place 
     by the start of Alaska's school year in mid-August. The 
     Department is directed to ensure that Alaska Native Tribes, 
     Alaska Native regional non-profits, and Alaska Native 
     corporations have the maximum opportunity to compete 
     successfully for grants under this program by providing these 
     entities multiple opportunities for technical assistance in 
     developing successful applications for these funds, both in 
     Alaska and through various forms of telecommunications. 
     Finally, the Department is encouraged to include as many peer 
     reviewers as possible who have experience with Alaska Native 
     education and Alaska generally on each peer review panel.
       Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grants Technical 
     Assistance and Capacity Building.--The reservation for 
     technical assistance (TA) and capacity building should be 
     used to support SEAs and LEAs in carrying out authorized 
     activities under this program identified by SEAs and LEAs, 
     which may include support for fostering school diversity 
     efforts across and within school districts. The agreement 
     continues to direct the Department to prioritize its TA and 
     capacity building support for SEAs and LEAs seeking to 
     address such school diversity needs. In future Congressional 
     Justifications, the Department shall continue to provide 
     current and planned expenditures for this reservation and 
     include a plan for how resources will be spent to provide TA 
     and to build the capacity of SEAs and LEAs.
       Education for Native Hawaiians.--The Department shall award 
     not less than $10,000,000 of the funds made available for the 
     Education for Native Hawaiians program under authority 
     continued from last year's bill for construction, renovation, 
     and modernization of any public elementary school, secondary 
     school, or structure related to a public elementary school or 
     secondary school, that serves a predominantly Native Hawaiian 
     student body. The Department shall make this funding 
     competitively available to organizations in need of 
     assistance with infrastructure improvement for increased 
     capacity to serve a predominantly Native Hawaiian student 
     body. The agreement also includes sufficient funding for 
     the Native Hawaiian Education Council.

                            Indian Education

       National Activities.--The increase for National Activities 
     shall support new awards under the Native American Language 
     Immersion competition and the State-Tribal Education 
     Partnership program for up to five years.
       Funds for the Native American Language Immersion program 
     should continue to be allocated to all types of eligible 
     entities, including both new and existing language immersion 
     programs and schools, to support the most extensive possible 
     geographical distribution and language diversity. In 
     addition, the Department should continue to give the same 
     consideration to applicants that propose to provide partial 
     immersion schools and programs as to full immersion, as the 
     local Tribes, schools, and other applicants know best what 
     type of program will most effectively assist their youth to 
     succeed. Further, the Department is directed to provide 
     adequate notice, consultation, and technical assistance to 
     support applications from and grants to a diverse range of 
     language immersion schools and programs, including those 
     serving Native Hawaiian and Alaska Native students.
       Native American Language Resource Centers.--Within National 
     Activities, the agreement includes $1,500,000 for this 
     activity described under this heading in House Report 117-
     403. Further, the Office of Indian Education is directed to 
     consult with the Office of English Language Acquisition on 
     the development, implementation and support for this program.
       Special Programs for Indian Students.--The Department is 
     directed to use no less than $2,750,000 of funds available 
     for the Demonstration Grants for Indian Children and Youth 
     program for a teacher retention-initiative to help address 
     the shortage of Native American educators and expand their 
     impact on Native American students' education. The initiative 
     should support teacher leadership models to increase the 
     retention of effective, experienced Native American teachers.

                       Innovation and Improvement

       Education Innovation and Research (EIR).-- Within the total 
     for EIR, and including continuation awards, the agreement 
     includes $87,000,000 to provide grants for social and 
     emotional learning (SEL) and $87,000,000 for Science, 
     Technology, Education, and Math (STEM) and computer science 
     education activities. Within the STEM and computer science 
     set-aside, awards should expand opportunities for 
     underrepresented students such as minorities, girls, and 
     youth from families living at or below the poverty line to 
     help reduce the enrollment and achievement gap. To fulfill 
     both set-asides, the agreement supports the prioritization of 
     high-quality SEL and STEM proposals for both the early- and 
     mid-phase evidence tiers. The agreement encourages the 
     Department to take steps necessary to ensure the statutory 
     set-aside for rural areas is met and that EIR funds are 
     awarded to diverse geographic areas. The agreement expects 
     the remainder of EIR funds to continue to support diverse and 
     field-initiated interventions, rather than a single 
     nationwide program or award focused solely on one area of 
     educational innovation.
       No later than 30 days after enactment of this Act, the 
     Department is directed to have an initial consultation 
     briefing with the Committees on the fiscal year 2023 
     competitions for EIR. Not less than two weeks before the 
     publication of a notice of proposed priorities or a notice 
     inviting applications, the Department is directed to brief 
     the Committees on plans for carrying out an EIR competition. 
     In addition, the Department shall provide a briefing and 
     notice of grant awards to the Committees at least seven days 
     before grantees are announced.
       Supporting Effective Educator Development (SEED).--Within 
     SEED, the Department is

[[Page S8896]]

     directed to support professional development that helps 
     educators incorporate SEL practices into teaching, and to 
     support pathways into teaching that provide a strong 
     foundation in child development and learning, including 
     skills for implementing SEL strategies in the classroom 
     through a competitive preference priority as included in the 
     fiscal year 2020 and 2022 competitions.
       In addition, the SEED program is an ideal vehicle for 
     helping ensure that more highly trained school leaders are 
     available to serve in traditionally underserved LEAs. 
     Therefore, the Secretary shall continue to support an 
     absolute priority to support the preparation of principals 
     and other school leaders and disseminate best practices from 
     such grants.
       American History and Civics National Activities.--After 
     providing continuation awards, the agreement directs the 
     Department to allocate all remaining resources in this 
     program to run a new grant competition supporting evidence-
     based practices as described under this heading in House 
     Report 117-403; however, eligible entities shall be those 
     defined in section 2233(e) of ESEA. The Department also is 
     directed to include a priority for applicants that propose 
     evidence-based approaches to improving teaching and learning 
     about the history and principles of the Constitution of the 
     United States in any new competition.
       Charter School Program.--Not later than 90 days after 
     enactment, the Department is directed to brief the Committees 
     on its actions and plans to provide adequate staff for and 
     oversight of the Charter School Program (CSP); offer 
     flexibility by allowing State entities to reserve a greater 
     share of anticipated funds available over the life of the 
     grant for technical assistance (TA) in the early years of the 
     grant when such assistance is particularly needed, and 
     improve the use of and prepare additional reports on the use 
     of such reserved funds, including disaggregated data as it 
     relates to students with disabilities and English learners, 
     that includes: a description of the State's objectives in 
     providing TA to grantees and the activities identified to 
     provide the required TA; and a description of the impact of 
     State action(s), or if no known impact, an explanation as to 
     why.
       Not less than two weeks before the publication of a notice 
     of proposed priorities or a notice inviting applications, the 
     Department is directed to brief the Committees on plans for 
     carrying out a CSP competition.
       Statewide Family Engagement Centers.--The agreement directs 
     the Department to use the increase provided to award grants 
     for high-quality applications that could not be funded during 
     the prior year's grant competition.
       Community Project Funding/Congressionally Directed 
     Spending.--The agreement includes $200,443,000 for the 
     projects, and in the amounts, specified in the table 
     ``Community Project Funding/Congressionally Directed 
     Spending'' included in this explanatory statement 
     accompanying this division.

                 Safe Schools and Citizenship Education

     School Safety National Activities
       The agreement includes $216,000,000 for national 
     activities, an increase of $15,000,000, which shall be used 
     by the Department for competitive grant competitions, 
     technical assistance and capacity-building centers, or 
     Project SERV.
       Not less than two weeks before the publication of a notice 
     of proposed priorities or a notice inviting applications, the 
     Department is directed to brief the Committees on plans for 
     carrying out any new competition funded within School Safety 
     National Activities. In addition, the Department shall 
     provide a briefing and notice of grant awards to the 
     Committees at least seven days before grantees are announced.
     Promise Neighborhoods
       The agreement provides a portion of funds for the second 
     year of two-year extension grants to high quality Promise 
     Neighborhood programs that have demonstrated positive and 
     promising results through their initial implementation grant 
     to strengthen grantee community's abilities to scale city and 
     regional reinvestment strategies and allow for direct 
     pipeline services. Further, the Department is directed to 
     brief the Committees, prior to the publication of proposed 
     priorities or a notice inviting applications, on potential 
     changes to future grant competitions that would provide 
     expiring and recently expired extension grant recipients 
     operating in a particular neighborhood or community the 
     opportunity to compete for a new grant to strengthen and 
     further expand services in the same neighborhood or 
     community, provided they can demonstrate successful outcomes 
     and justify the need for new funding. Such briefing shall 
     also cover how to maximize the planning time grantees have 
     before implementation begins, and other actions to strengthen 
     the long-term success of communities and neighborhoods 
     assisted with grant funds. The Department shall provide a 
     briefing on implementation plans for the Promise 
     Neighborhoods program not later than 14 days prior to issuing 
     a notice inviting applications for new awards or extension 
     grants.

                           Special Education

       Technical Assistance and Dissemination.--The agreement 
     includes an increase of $1,000,000 for OSEP's State Deaf-
     Blind Projects and the National Center on Deaf-Blindness to 
     strengthen support of the abilities and needs of children 
     with deaf-blindness, including through intervener services. 
     The Department is directed to provide an update on actions 
     and plans to ensure that intervener services are available 
     when recommended by the Individualized Education Program team 
     and parents and families are aware of such services as early 
     as possible in the fiscal year 2024 Congressional 
     Justification. The Department also is directed to provide 
     technical assistance and support to any State considering how 
     to remove barriers like family fees and associated 
     administrative requirements that deter families from 
     accessing needed Part C services.
       Education Materials in Accessible Formats for Students with 
     Visual Impairments.--The agreement includes additional 
     funding to make a broader range of educational materials 
     available to students and to meet the needs of all eligible 
     students, including pre-K and postsecondary students.

                        Rehabilitation Services

       The agreement directs the Department to provide a briefing 
     to the Committees no later than 90 days after enactment on 
     the planned uses of funds that remain available for 
     obligation subsequent to the reallotment of funds to States 
     pursuant to section 110(b) of the Rehabilitation Act, and to 
     provide semi-annual briefings thereafter.
       Disability Innovation Fund (DIF).--The agreement directs 
     the Department to use a portion of DIF funds for competitive 
     grants, to be awarded in coordination with the Office of 
     Disability Employment Policy, to non-governmental entities in 
     partnership with State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) 
     agencies for innovative strategies that significantly 
     increase employment of adults with disabilities. The 
     agreement expects this will focus on adults with disabilities 
     who are not currently in the workforce. Grants shall be 
     awarded to partnerships that support disabled adults in 
     obtaining competitive integrated employment and advance their 
     career trajectories. Strategies for improving employment 
     outcomes for adults with disabilities must have as their goal 
     a significant effect on disability employment in the State or 
     region. Funds should be used to develop new and innovative 
     strategies for the recruitment, hiring, retention, and career 
     advancement of disabled adults, spurring change in the State 
     VR agency's strategies and ability to improve State 
     disability employment outcomes.
       Institute of Education Sciences (IES) Evaluation.--The 
     agreement directs the Department to notify the Committees at 
     least 15 days prior to transferring any funds to IES under 
     the authority provided under this heading.
       Randolph-Sheppard Program.--The agreement directs the 
     Department to provide participants in the Randolph-Sheppard 
     Program with technical assistance and support in applying for 
     funding opportunities for innovative activities aimed at 
     increasing competitive integrated employment. In addition, 
     the agreement encourages the Department to use amounts 
     available for evaluation and technical assistance to study 
     the Randolph-Sheppard Program and innovative activities aimed 
     at increasing competitive integrated employment.

           Special Institutions for Persons with Disabilities

       American Printing House for the Blind.--The agreement 
     includes $6,000,000 to continue the Center for Assistive 
     Technology Training regional partnership established in 
     fiscal year 2019.
       National Technical Institute for the Deaf (NTID).--The 
     agreement includes $9,500,000 to continue NTID's current 
     Regional STEM Center.
       Gallaudet University.--The agreement includes $8,500,000, 
     an increase of $2,000,000, to continue and expand the current 
     regional partnership through the Early Learning Acquisition 
     Project.

                 Career, Technical, and Adult Education

       Innovation and Modernization Grants.--The agreement 
     includes $25,000,000 within CTE National Programs for 
     Innovation and Modernization grants.
       Adult Education National Leadership Activities.--The 
     agreement encourages the Department to support technical 
     assistance that will help build the evidence-base of adult 
     education programs, including supporting States in 
     prioritizing rigorously evaluated programs.

                      Student Financial Assistance

       Pell Grants.--The agreement increases the maximum Pell 
     grant award by $500, to a total, including discretionary and 
     mandatory funding, of $7,395 for the 2023-2024 award year.
       Federal Work Study.--Within the total for Federal Work 
     Study, the agreement includes $11,053,000 for the Work 
     Colleges program authorized under section448 of the Higher 
     Education Act (HEA).
       Pell Grant Restoration and Prison Education Program.--The 
     agreement expects that the Department will continue the 
     Second Chance Pell Experiment as the Department implements 
     Pell Grants for Prison Education Programs (PEP). Expertise 
     and best practices from Second Chance Pell should be used to 
     develop guidance and technical assistance for the new PEP. 
     The agreement further directs the Department to work with 
     Second Chance Pell sites as they transition to the 
     requirements under the new PEP to ensure that incarcerated 
     students do not experience a gap in their educational 
     programming. The Department should also convey to 
     institutions of higher education that they should work to 
     ensure that every student who participates in the new PEP is 
     able to reenter their communities successfully post-release.

[[Page S8897]]

  


                       Student Aid Administration

       The agreement directs the Department to provide a detailed 
     spend plan of the planned uses of funds under this heading by 
     major activity, and quarterly updates on its implementation. 
     This should include, but not be limited to, detailed 
     breakouts by baseline operations and development efforts; and 
     servicing, student aid core systems, IT activities, and other 
     Federal Student Aid activities. Further, this should include 
     a crosswalk to activities funded under administrative costs 
     and servicing activities, and any reallocation of funds 
     between those two activities should be treated as a 
     reprogramming of funds, and the Committees should be notified 
     in advance of any such changes.
       The agreement provides authority to extend current student 
     loan servicing contracts in order to ensure an orderly 
     transition to the Unified Servicing and Data Solution (USDS). 
     The Department should notify the Committees at least 15 days 
     prior to exercising that authority to extend current 
     contracts. The agreement further directs the Department to 
     provide quarterly briefings on progress related to 
     implementation of USDS.

                            Higher Education

     Aid for Institutional Development
       Promoting Postbaccalaureate Opportunities for Hispanic 
     Americans.--The Department is encouraged to prioritize awards 
     for projects that support consortia of Hispanic-Serving 
     Institutions that award PhDs to develop and test new models 
     of cross-institutional intellectual, research, and resource-
     sharing communities, create mentorship programs for PhD 
     students, support graduate research experiences, and other 
     uses associated with the pursuit of PhDs by Hispanic 
     students.
     International Education and Foreign Language Studies
       Domestic Programs.--The agreement directs the Department to 
     allocate the increase of $3,500,000 for Domestic Programs to 
     the National Resource Centers program.
     Minority Science and Engineering Improvement
       Workforce Development.--The Department is encouraged to 
     prioritize awards for projects that assist in workforce 
     development programs in industrial engineering, emergency 
     management, and emergency response. Further, programs that 
     provide support for minority student internships with local 
     industries, hospitals, and businesses should are encouraged 
     to be prioritized.
     Federal TRIO Programs
       The agreement includes an increase of $54,000,000 for TRIO 
     which shall be used to provide increases to current TRIO 
     grantees demonstrating substantial progress in meeting 
     performance objectives and, to the extent practicable, to 
     fund down the slates of unfunded, high-quality applications 
     from prior-year competitions.
     GEAR UP
       The agreement includes an increase of $10,000,000 for GEAR 
     UP. The Department is directed to use the increase for a new 
     fiscal year 2023 grant competition.
     Child Care Access Means Parents in Schools (CCAMPIS)
       The Department is directed to establish a flat maximum 
     grant award reflective of the costs to provide high-quality 
     child care to student parents, and to prioritize funding to 
     IHEs based on the number of Pell grant recipients.
     Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education (FIPSE)
       The agreement includes $184,000,000 for FIPSE which shall 
     be used by the Department as described in this statement.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                               FY 2023
                      Budget Activity                         Agreement
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Basic Needs Grants.........................................   10,000,000
Centers of Excellence for Veterans Student Success Program.    9,000,000
HBCU, TCU, and MSI Research and Development Infrastructure    50,000,000
 Grants....................................................
Modeling and Simulation Programs...........................    8,000,000
Open Textbook Pilot........................................   12,000,000
Postsecondary Student Success Grants.......................   45,000,000
Rural Postsecondary and Economic Development Grant Program.   45,000,000
Transitioning Gang-Involved Youth to Higher Education......    5,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Basic Needs Grants.--The agreement includes $10,000,000 for 
     this activity described under this heading in House Report 
     117-403.
       Centers of Excellence for Veterans Student Success 
     Program.--The agreement includes $9,000,000 for this activity 
     described under this heading in House Report 117-403.
       HBCU, TCU, and MSI Research and Development Infrastructure 
     Grants.--The agreement includes $50,000,000 for planning and 
     implementation grants designed to promote transformational 
     investments in research infrastructure at four-year HBCUs, 
     TCUs, or other MSIs, either alone or as the lead entity in 
     consortia.
       Modeling and Simulation Programs.--The agreement includes 
     $8,000,000 for this activity described under this heading in 
     House Report 117-403.
       Open Textbook Pilot.--The agreement includes $12,000,000 to 
     continue the Open Textbook Pilot as described in House Report 
     117-403.
       Postsecondary Student Success Grants.--The agreement 
     includes $45,000,000 for Postsecondary Student Success Grants 
     (PSSG) as described in House Report 117-403, including 
     requirements that the Department executes this program as a 
     tiered-evidence competition in the same structure as EIR; 
     that all grantees carry out rigorous independent evaluations 
     of their projects; that the Office of Postsecondary Education 
     consult the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education and 
     the Institute of Education Sciences; and, to the extent 
     practicable, that at least half of all fiscal year 2023 PSSG 
     resources support grants at the mid-phase or expansion 
     levels. The agreement directs the Department to use all 
     fiscal year 2023 PSSG resources to run a new competition 
     as described in House Report 117-403 rather than funding 
     additional awards from the fiscal year 2022 competition.
       The agreement directs the Department to brief the 
     Committees no later than 90 days after enactment of this Act 
     on plans to carry out the PSGG competition, as well as a plan 
     for evaluation and accountability, and to notify and brief 
     the Committees at least seven days before grantees are 
     announced.
       Rural Postsecondary and Economic Development Grant 
     Program.--The agreement includes $45,000,000 for the Rural 
     Postsecondary Economic Development Grant program.
       Transitioning Gang-Involved Youth to Higher Education.--The 
     agreement includes $5,000,000 for this activity described 
     under this heading in House Report 117-403.
       National Center for Artificial Intelligence Learning.--The 
     agreement is supportive of programs that enhance course 
     training opportunities in artificial intelligence by 
     supporting institutions of higher education in developing and 
     providing 21st century degree programs and opportunities that 
     increase student's employability across all disciplines 
     through knowledge and skill enhancements of artificial 
     intelligence.
     Community Project Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending
       The agreement includes $429,587,000 for the projects, and 
     in the amounts, specified in the table ``Community Project 
     Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending'' included in this 
     explanatory statement accompanying this division.

                           Howard University

       The agreement includes $354,018,000 for Howard University. 
     Within the total, the agreement includes an additional 
     $100,000,000 to support construction of a new hospital.

                 Institute of Education Sciences (IES)

       Research, Development, and Dissemination.--To further 
     support research needed to accelerate learning recovery from 
     COVID-19 disruptions in instruction and eliminate 
     longstanding achievement gaps, IES is directed to use a 
     portion of its fiscal year 2023 appropriation to support a 
     new funding opportunity for quick-turnaround, high-reward 
     scalable solutions intended to significantly improve outcomes 
     for students, which may include suggested research activities 
     described in House Report 117-403. IES is further directed to 
     describe actions and plans to support high-reward research on 
     transformative solutions needed to significantly improve 
     outcomes for all students in its current Operating Plan and 
     in future Congressional Justifications, Operating Plans, and 
     Biennial Reports.
       The IES is directed to brief the Committees on plans for 
     making new high-reward research awards not less than two 
     weeks before the publication of a funding opportunity notice. 
     In addition, the IES shall provide a briefing and notice of 
     awards to the Committees at least seven days before grantees 
     are announced.
       The agreement also recognizes the ongoing collaborative 
     efforts between the Department of Education and the National 
     Science Foundation (NSF), including two NSF National 
     Artificial Intelligence Research Institutes focused on 
     education. The agreement encourages the Department and IES to 
     pursue additional collaboration with the NSF, which may 
     include support for Centers for Transformative Education 
     Research and Translation.
       Statistics.--The agreement includes $121,500,000 in program 
     funding for the National Center for Education Statistics 
     (NCES). The agreement directs all planned uses of funds to be 
     described in the required operating plan. Should NCES decide 
     to use resources for the School Pulse Panel, the agreement 
     directs NCES to describe in such plan the policies and 
     procedures in place for the School Pulse Panel to ensure that 
     such information is collected and reported in a manner that 
     is objective, secular, neutral, and nonideological; free of 
     partisan political influence and racial, cultural, gender, or 
     regional bias; and relevant and useful to practitioners, 
     researchers, policymakers, and the public. Further, such 
     operating plan should describe all topics planned for monthly 
     collections in 2023.
       Assessment.--The agreement includes $185,000,000, including 
     $10,000,000 for research and development, for the Assessment 
     program. Amounts and activities related to research and 
     development investments are directed to be described 
     separately in the required operating plan and future 
     Congressional Justifications.
       The operating plan required by House Report 117-403 shall 
     include a description of actions implemented and planned to 
     address each of the recommendations of the September 2022 
     National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) Internal 
     Controls Assessment Report and National Academies of 
     Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine consensus study report 
     entitled ``A Pragmatic Future for NAEP: Containing Costs and 
     Updating Technologies.''
       Program Administration.--IES and NCES are directed to also 
     describe in the operating plan directed in House Report 117-
     403 implementation plans and associated timelines for 
     recommendations of the National Academies

[[Page S8898]]

     of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine in the ``Future of 
     Education Research at IES'' and ``A Vision and Roadmap for 
     Education Statistics.''

                        Departmental Management

       Game-based Learning (GBL).--The agreement recognizes GBL in 
     augmented reality and virtual reality as an instrument to 
     foster engaged and immersive learning in elementary education 
     and encourages the Department to consider incorporating 
     evidence-based GBL as a priority in planned competitions in 
     fiscal year 2023, as applicable.
       Menstrual Hygiene Products.--The agreement continues to 
     encourage the Department of Education, in consultation with 
     the Department of Health and Human Services, to provide 
     technical assistance and share best practices with 
     institutions of higher education seeking to expand access to 
     menstrual products for postsecondary students.
       Nonrecurring Expenses Fund.--As part of the annual 
     Congressional Justification, the Department is directed to 
     include the anticipated balances available in and uses of the 
     Nonrecurring Expenses Fund for the current and budget fiscal 
     years. Additionally, the Department is directed to provide 
     the Committees quarterly reports for all ongoing projects. 
     The report shall include the following for each project: a 
     description and timeline for each project; the date the 
     project was notified to the Committees; total obligations to 
     date; obligations for the prior fiscal year; anticipated 
     obligations for current fiscal year; and any expected future 
     obligations; and the total unobligated balance in the Fund.
       Program Administration.--The agreement notes disappointment 
     that despite a significant increase in funding in fiscal year 
     2022 for Program Administration after more than five years of 
     level-funding, the Department transferred $7,000,000 from the 
     Pell Grant program for additional administrative expenses 
     without any consultation with the Committees. Accordingly, 
     for fiscal year 2023, the agreement expects the Department to 
     meet the administrative needs of the agency through the 
     Program Administration appropriation provided in the Act, 
     which includes an increase of $32,000,000, and not by 
     transferring funds from another account. Further, the 
     agreement expects additional resources provided under this 
     account to support expanded allotments for core agency career 
     staff responsible for the execution of agency programs, 
     including staffing within grants offices and within Budget 
     Service. In addition, the agreement expects the agency to use 
     such resources to effectively administer Community Project 
     Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending grants in a timely 
     manner.
       In meeting the agreement's expectation that adequate career 
     staff are allotted to effectively implement core agency 
     programs, in fiscal year 2023, the Department should begin to 
     rebalance the agency's ratio of career staff to non-career 
     staff. The agreement notes that the Department used 
     additional resources provided in fiscal year 2022 to, among 
     other investments, increase its non-career staff on-board by 
     40 percent from September 2021 through December 2022. The 
     agreement is concerned by the Department's prioritization of 
     staffing resources in fiscal year 2022; therefore, in fiscal 
     year 2023, the agreement expects the Department not to expand 
     non-career staff on-board above December 2022 levels.
       Further, the agreement directs the Department to brief the 
     Committees on how its required staffing report operating plan 
     will fill critical positions; invest in information 
     technology necessary for providing effective monitoring and 
     oversight of grants and programs; invest in information 
     technology security; and address other challenges identified 
     by the Inspector General in the 2022 Management Challenges 
     report. Further, the Department should be prepared to discuss 
     its efforts to begin rebalancing the agency's ratio of career 
     staff to non-career staff.
       Spending Transparency.--The Department is directed to 
     strengthen its support for the timely and effective 
     expenditure of Elementary and Secondary School Emergency 
     Relief (ESSER) funds, including amounts dedicated to 
     addressing student learning through the implementation of 
     evidence based interventions to meet students' academic and 
     mental health needs. The Department must also enhance 
     transparency on key categories of actual and planned 
     expenditure of ESSER funds at the national, state and local 
     levels.
       Staffing Report.--Not later than 30 days after enactment, 
     the Department shall provide the Committees an operating plan 
     identifying the total FTE and non-personnel allocations 
     supported by the program administration appropriation in 
     total for the Department, and FTE and non-personnel 
     allocations for each program office supported by the program 
     administration appropriation provided in this Act. In 
     addition, the Department shall provide on a monthly basis the 
     number of on-board staff, attrition, approved hires not yet 
     on-boarded and projected full-year FTE usage, including 
     approved hires, and actual non-personnel expenses, for each 
     program office supported by, and in total for, the program 
     administration appropriation provided in this Act. In 
     addition, the Department shall separately identify in such 
     plans and reports total FTE allocations supported by other 
     funding sources.
       State and Local Report Cards.--The Department is directed 
     to, not later than 6 months after enactment of this Act, 
     submit to the Committees and to the Committees of Health, 
     Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate and of Education 
     and Labor of the House of Representatives a report outlining 
     actions taken to bring States into compliance with all ESEA 
     annual reporting requirements, particularly for those States 
     that have yet to come into full compliance with such 
     requirements; common implementation obstacles facing States 
     in complying with such requirements; and efforts to improve 
     the accessibility, quality, and utility of this information.
       Supporting Principals and School Leaders.--Principals and 
     school leaders are critical to both student outcomes and 
     teacher retention. The Department is directed to issue 
     guidance to SEAs and LEAs on the use of Federal funds across 
     various programs, including Title I-A and Title II-A of the 
     ESEA, for implementing evidence based-strategies to recruit, 
     prepare, support, and retain strong principals and school 
     leaders.
       Teacher and School Leader Diversity Guidance.--Increasing 
     educator diversity is critical to building a strong educator 
     workforce that supports students and educators from all 
     backgrounds. The Department is directed to release guidance 
     on how formula funds across various programs, including Title 
     I-A, Title II-A, Title III, Title V-B, and Title VI of the 
     ESEA, Title III of the HEA, and Part B of the IDEA may be 
     used by SEAs, LEAs and IHEs to increase teacher and school 
     leader diversity, including through pre-service support, 
     enhancing preparation, providing on the-job support, and 
     strengthening retention and promotion policies.

                           General Provisions

       The agreement continues authority for pooled evaluation 
     authority.
       The agreement continues a provision regarding endowment 
     income.
       The agreement continues authority for the National Advisory 
     Committee on Institutional Quality and Integrity.
       The agreement continues authority for account maintenance 
     fees.
       The agreement modifies a provision rescinding fiscal year 
     2023 mandatory funding to offset the mandatory costs of 
     increasing the discretionary Pell award.
       The agreement continues a provision regarding authority to 
     evaluate HEA authorized programs.
       The agreement continues a provision providing an additional 
     amount for the projects, and in the amounts, as specified in 
     the table titled Community Project Funding/Congressionally 
     Directed Spending in the explanatory statement accompanying 
     this division.
       The agreement includes a new provision regarding 
     centralized support costs for the Institute of Education 
     Sciences.
       The agreement includes a new provision repealing a 
     prohibition against the use of federal education funds by 
     SEAs and LEAs for certain transportation activities.
       The agreement modifies a provision rescinding unobligated 
     discretionary balances previously appropriated for the Pell 
     grant program.

                                TITLE IV

                            RELATED AGENCIES

 Committee for Purchase From People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled

       Requested Reports.--The agreement continues to request the 
     reports listed under this heading in the explanatory 
     statement accompanying Public Law 117-103.

         Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS)


                           OPERATING EXPENSES

       Innovation, Demonstration, and Assistance Activities.--The 
     agreement includes $14,706,000 for innovation, assistance, 
     and other activities. The agreement includes $8,558,000 for 
     the Volunteer Generation Fund and $6,148,000 for National 
     Days of Service including the September 11th National Day of 
     Service and Remembrance and the Martin Luther King, Jr. 
     National Day of Service. CNCS should prioritize making 
     grants, entering into cooperative agreements, or providing 
     other forms of support to eligible organizations with 
     expertise in: representing families of victims of the 
     September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and other impacted 
     constituencies; promoting the establishment of September 11 
     as an annually recognized National Day of Service and 
     Remembrance; and organizing volunteers to engage in service 
     to meet community needs and advance the life and teachings of 
     Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
       National and Community Service.--The agreement urges CNCS 
     to continue to be a convener of the important work 
     surrounding service learning and to support civic 
     bridgebuilding activities.
       Commission Investment Fund (CIF).--The agreement includes 
     no less than the fiscal year 2022 level for the CIF.
       Evaluation of Effective Interventions.--The agreement 
     encourages CNCS to continue its use of randomized control 
     trials to build causal evidence for effective interventions.


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       Financial Management and Accounting.--The agreement is 
     concerned about deficiencies in audits from fiscal years 2017 
     to 2022 and includes funding for AmeriCorps to support the 
     contracting of a dedicated project team, comprised of 
     personnel with expertise in financial management and 
     accounting. The agreement directs AmeriCorps to submit a 
     report no later than 90 days after the date of enactment of 
     this Act, and quarterly thereafter, detailing the agency's

[[Page S8899]]

     progress in addressing audit findings. The agreement further 
     directs AmeriCorps to provide quarterly briefings in fiscal 
     year 2023 to the Committees on Appropriations, the House 
     Committee on Education and Labor, and the Senate Committee on 
     Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.

                Institute of Museum and Library Services

       The agreement includes funds for the following activities:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              FY 2023
                     Budget Activity                         Agreement
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Library Services Technology Act:
  Grants to States......................................    $180,000,000
  Native American Library Services......................       5,763,000
  National Leadership: Libraries........................      15,287,000
  Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian.....................      10,000,000
Museum Services Act:
  Museums for America...................................      30,330,000
  Native American/Hawaiian Museum Services..............       3,772,000
National Leadership: Museums                                   9,348,000
African American History and Culture Act:
  Museum Grants for African American History & Culture..       6,000,000
National Museum of the American Latino Act:
  Museum Grants for American Latino History & Culture...       6,000,000
Research, Analysis, and Data Collection.................       5,650,000
Program Administration..................................      22,650,000
                                                         ---------------
    TOTAL...............................................    $294,800,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Information Literacy Taskforce.--The agreement includes 
     $4,000,000 for the continuation and expansion of the 
     Information Literacy Taskforce (Taskforce) in accordance with 
     the priorities and guidelines described in the explanatory 
     statement accompanying Public Law 117-103. Of these funds, 
     $2,000,000 shall be reserved for the development and 
     implementation of two pilot grant programs. The first pilot 
     program will have an associated evaluative component to test 
     the implementation of the toolkits and community 
     interventions disseminated by the Taskforce to aid in 
     developing locally responsive tools and resources to bridge 
     information gaps. The Taskforce will support research and 
     regularly convene grantees to identify and apply promising 
     strategies and practices. The second pilot program will 
     encourage, support, and promote information literacy, 
     including reliable methods and processes for informed civic 
     engagement among seniors and other segments of the 
     population. The agreement directs IMLS to submit a report or 
     provide a briefing to the Committees on the Taskforce's 
     findings within one year of the date of enactment of this 
     Act.
       America250.--The agreement recognizes IMLS's commitment to 
     the 250th Anniversary of the founding of the United States in 
     coordination with the Semiquincentennial Commission Act of 
     2016 and includes $1,000,000 in preparation for the 250th 
     Anniversary.

                       Railroad Retirement Board


                      LIMITATION ON ADMINISTRATION

       The agreement directs the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) 
     to provide annual updates on the project status of RRB's 
     fully funded information technology modernization system, 
     including timelines to completion, total anticipated cost of 
     development, funding obligations, and contracts. Such annual 
     update is requested no later than 180 days after enactment of 
     this Act and should provide information for each fiscal 
     quarter. Updates that include changes to project timelines to 
     completion should explicitly state the nature of those 
     changes.

                  Social Security Administration (SSA)


                 LIMITATION ON ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES

       The agreement includes an increase of $785,033,000 for 
     SSA's administrative expenses to support increases in fixed 
     costs across SSA, including for State Disability 
     Determination Services (DDSs), and to increase staffing and 
     invest in targeted IT systems with the goal of improving and 
     enhancing service delivery to the public.
       Disability Backlogs.--The agreement recognizes the pandemic 
     created significant challenges for SSA, which has contributed 
     to a significant increase in processing times for initial 
     disability claims. The agreement includes funding for SSA to 
     increase staffing, including in State DDSs, to help begin to 
     address the growing backlog of initial disability claims. In 
     addition, the agreement directs the Commissioner to continue 
     to prioritize efforts to reduce wait time disparities across 
     the country by directing resources and workload assistance, 
     as necessary, to areas with greatest need. Finally, the 
     agreement directs SSA to continue to provide monthly reports 
     to the Committees on key agency performance metrics, 
     including but not limited to initial disability claims, 
     reconsiderations, and hearings, and to provide quarterly 
     briefings to the Committees on its progress towards reducing 
     the initial disability claims and hearings backlogs, as well 
     as addressing other service delivery challenges.
       Expanding Outreach to People with Disabilities.--The 
     agreement strongly encourages SSA to expand outreach to 
     potential beneficiaries, prioritizing underserved communities 
     and individuals most likely to need support, and directs SSA 
     to include information in its fiscal year 2024 Congressional 
     Justification on such efforts.
       Continuing Disability Reviews (CDR).--The agreement directs 
     SSA to include in its annual CDR Report to Congress an 
     evaluation of its CDR prioritization models.
       Field Office and Resident Station Closures.--The agreement 
     recognizes the essential role that field offices and resident 
     stations play in the public's ability to access SSA benefits 
     and services and strongly encourages the Commissioner to take 
     every action possible to maintain operations at existing 
     field offices and resident stations. The agreement urges SSA 
     to ensure its policies and procedures for closing field 
     offices and resident stations include at least 120 days 
     advance notice to the public, SSA employees, Congress, and 
     other stakeholders. Such notice should include a rationale 
     for the proposed closure and an evaluation of the effects on 
     the public and SSA operations. In addition, the agreement is 
     concerned that the recent closure of a resident station due 
     to staffing difficulties has created an undue burden for 
     those who need access to in-person social security services. 
     The agreement directs SSA to continue to engage with 
     community leaders about how to provide suitable alternatives 
     for in-person services and to report to the Committees within 
     90 days of enactment of this Act on the alternatives 
     established.
       Improving Ticket to Work Administration and Reducing 
     Overpayments.--The agreement supports agency efforts to 
     improve administrative processes that reduce overpayments, 
     including in the Ticket to Work program, which can create 
     significant challenges as beneficiaries attempt to return to 
     work. SSA is directed to include information in its fiscal 
     year 2024 Congressional Justification on such efforts.
       Occupational Information System (OIS) and Medical-
     Vocational Guidelines.--The agreement directs SSA to include 
     information in its fiscal year 2024 Congressional 
     Justification detailing efforts to fully implement OIS in 
     coming years, including the status of implementation, the 
     extent to which OIS is fully-operational, a timeline for 
     moving from the Dictionary of Occupational Titles entirely to 
     OIS, an action plan to accomplish said timeline, and other 
     efforts to modernize medical-vocational guidelines.
       Program Integrity.--The agreement includes a new proviso, 
     which was requested in the fiscal year 2023 President's 
     Budget proposal, to expressly prohibit funding made available 
     under a cap adjustment to support program integrity 
     activities from being reprogrammed or transferred for 
     nonprogram integrity activities.
       The agreement, however, clarifies that such proviso is not 
     necessary because the Congress need not expressly prohibit 
     actions that it has not authorized. Under the statutory terms 
     of the appropriation, amounts provided for program integrity 
     activities may not be reprogrammed to base activities (or to 
     any other non-program integrity activity). That is because 
     this appropriation account statutorily establishes a required 
     appropriation amount for program integrity activities--in 
     this bill, at $1,784,000,000--which is provided by the sum of 
     the amounts specified in the first proviso of the account's 
     second paragraph.
       Finally, the agreement notes the Congress has not been 
     apprised of any applicable transfer authority available to 
     SSA that the President's Budget proposal seeks to prevent.
       Social Security Statements.--The agreement directs SSA to 
     submit a report within 120 days of enactment of this Act with 
     options for increasing the number of individuals receiving 
     Social Security Statements annually by mail to ensure that 
     individuals are informed of their Social Security 
     contributions and benefits, and have an opportunity to review 
     their earnings records and correct any errors in a timely 
     manner.
       Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (WIPA) and 
     Protection and Advocacy for Beneficiaries of Social Security 
     (PABSS).--The agreement includes $23,000,000 for WIPA grants 
     and $10,000,000 for PABSS.

                  Social Security Administration (SSA)


                   OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL (OIG)

       Combatting Social Security Impersonation Scams.--The 
     agreement commends SSA OIG efforts to combat Social Security 
     impersonation scams and urges SSA to continue prioritizing 
     this effort and pursuing the criminals perpetuating the 
     fraud.

                                TITLE V

                           General Provisions

       The agreement modifies a provision related to Performance 
     Partnerships.
       The agreement modifies a provision to rescind unobligated 
     balances.

   DISCLOSURE OF EARMARKS AND CONGRESSIONALLY DIRECTED SPENDING ITEMS

       Following is a list of congressional earmarks and 
     congressionally directed spending items (as defined in clause 
     9 of rule XXI of the Rules of the House of Representatives 
     and rule XLIV of the Standing Rules of the Senate, 
     respectively) included in the bill or this explanatory 
     statement, along with the name of each House Member, Senator, 
     Delegate, or Resident Commissioner who submitted a request to 
     the Committee of jurisdiction for each item so identified. 
     For each item, a Member is required to provide a 
     certification that neither the Member nor the Member's 
     immediate family has a financial interest, and each Senator 
     is required to provide a certification that neither the 
     Senator nor the Senator's immediate family has a pecuniary 
     interest in such congressionally directed spending item. 
     Neither the bill nor the explanatory statement contains any 
     limited tax benefits or limited tariff benefits as defined in 
     the applicable House and Senate rules.

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        DIVISION I--LEGISLATIVE BRANCH APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2023

       The following is an explanation of the effects of Division 
     I, which makes appropriations for the legislative branch for 
     fiscal year 2023. The joint explanatory statement 
     accompanying this division is approved and indicates 
     congressional intent. Unless otherwise noted, the language 
     set forth in House Report 117-389 carries the same weight as 
     language included in this joint explanatory statement and 
     shall be complied with unless specifically addressed to the 
     contrary in this joint explanatory statement. While some 
     language is repeated for emphasis, this explanatory statement 
     does not intend to negate the language referred to above 
     unless expressly provided herein.
       All legislative branch agencies are directed to follow 
     prior year directives adopted in Public Law 117-103, on 
     ``Reprogramming Guidelines'', ``Full-Time Equivalents'', 
     ``Science and Technology Assistance for Congress'', and 
     ``Zero-Based Budgeting''.
       Congressional Requirements for Legislative Branch Cyber and 
     Physical Data Security.--In lieu of the House language on 
     ``Congressional Requirements for Legislative Branch Cyber and 
     Physical Data Security'', the Committees reiterate that 
     legislative branch agencies should consider proactive steps 
     to protect critical Information Technology (IT) 
     infrastructure, including the prevention of cyberattacks, 
     secure data storage, and ensuring continuity of government 
     operations. The Committees recommend that, as part of their 
     production, redundant and backup network architecture 
     solutions, legislative branch agencies should utilize 
     computing and cloud facilities designed for concurrent 
     maintainability (equivalent to ANSI/TIA-942-A or Uptime 
     Institute Tier III standards and industry best practices) and 
     consider geographic diversity.
       Cybersecurity for the Legislative Branch.--The agreement 
     includes funding requested by legislative branch agencies in 
     fiscal year 2023 to strengthen cyber defenses.
       Motorized Micromobility Devices on Capitol Grounds.--
     Dockless commercial scooters, or e-scooters, and other 
     motorized devices for rent have grown as a commuting option 
     for congressional staffers, tourists, and other visitors to 
     the District of Columbia and Capitol Grounds. However, 
     pursuant to the Traffic Regulations for the United States 
     Capitol Grounds, commercial dockless scooters remain 
     prohibited on Capitol Grounds. The agreement notes that the 
     2021 Terms and Conditions established by the District of 
     Columbia Department of Transportation (DDOT) have been 
     modified for commercial dockless scooter vendors and these 
     Terms and Conditions now require commercial dockless scooter 
     vendors to install geofencing on their vehicles to ensure 
     that commercial dockless scooters do not enter onto Capitol 
     Grounds consistent with Traffic Regulations for the United 
     States Capitol Grounds prohibitions. The United States 
     Capitol Police (USCP), Sergeants at Arms (SAA), and Architect 
     of the Capitol (AOC) are expected to continue expanding 
     outreach efforts to dockless scooter and bicycle companies 
     and DDOT, and to work to better educate users, including 
     congressional staff, District residents, and visitors on the 
     appropriate operation of commercial dockless scooters and 
     bicycles on Capitol Grounds. This may include exploring the 
     feasibility of installing shared scooter docking points, 
     including hubs for parking and charging, at designated 
     locations adjacent to campus as determined by USCP, SAAs, and 
     the AOC to ensure rider convenience while not creating a 
     public safety risk on Capitol Grounds.
       Offices of Inspectors General (OIG) Budgets.--Ensuring 
     independence between legislative branch OIGs and their 
     respective reporting agencies is important. Agencies are 
     expected to include a separate section reflecting a detailed 
     budget request for their OIGs within their fiscal year 2024 
     budget justifications. Each OIG is directed to keep the 
     Committees fully apprised of its funding needs. In addition, 
     each agency is directed to avoid interference with or require 
     approval for such communications between the OIG and the 
     Committees.
       Good Accounting Obligation in Government Act.--The Good 
     Accounting Obligation in Government Act, or GAO-IG Act 
     (Public Law 115-414) requires that each Federal agency, 
     including the agencies of the legislative branch, include an 
     accounting of any public recommendations by the GAO or the 
     agency's OIG that have not yet been implemented, and the 
     timeframe for implementation. It is expected that each agency 
     in this bill include such a report in its fiscal year 2024 
     congressional budget justification.
       Internal Controls to Prevent Fraud, Waste or Abuse within 
     the Legislative Branch.--All legislative branch agencies are 
     directed to develop internal controls procedures designed to 
     identify potential risk areas within the agency and to 
     communicate the expected internal controls procedures to be 
     implemented throughout the agency to prevent instances of 
     fraud, waste, or abuse. These policies must be implemented 
     consistent with the authorities of the inspector generals and 
     established Federal laws, rules, and regulations.
       Implementation of Recommendations Issued by Oversight 
     Entities.--Each legislative branch agency is directed to 
     address recommendations from oversight entities, such as the 
     GAO and OIGs, in a timely manner and to request resources, as 
     appropriate, to fully implement these recommendations. In 
     addition, each legislative branch agency is directed to 
     provide a summary of all open oversight recommendations 
     within the agency's annual budget justifications, to include 
     reasons for the recommendation remaining open and cost 
     proposals for fully implementing each unresolved oversight 
     recommendation.
       Single-Use Plastics and Other Sustainability Efforts.--
     Reducing the use of single-use plastic products, as well as 
     other recyclable waste, on the Capitol Grounds is critical. 
     The AOC, SAAs, the Secretary of the Senate, Chief 
     Administrative Officer of the House (CAO) and USCP are 
     directed to identify the types of single-use plastic products 
     currently used within their operations and for what purposes; 
     develop recommendations on alternative products, including 
     reuse and refill options; and report within 60 days of 
     enactment of this Act to the Committees on Appropriations, 
     the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration and the 
     Committee on House Administration on these findings and the 
     associated costs of implementing said recommendations.
       Further, the AOC and USCP are taking commendable actions to 
     implement outdoor recycling programs on Capitol Grounds while 
     maintaining the security of the Capitol complex. The AOC is 
     encouraged to work with the USCP to find additional locations 
     where garbage and recycling cans can be co-located and 
     clearly marked on the Capitol Grounds without impacting 
     security operations. In addition, AOC is encouraged to 
     continue to explore options from within existing resources 
     for composting and food waste reduction with interested 
     legislative branch entities.
       Use of Government Vehicles.--Legislative branch agencies 
     are reminded that Federal government vehicles are to be 
     utilized for official government business only and are not to 
     be used for general personal use. All legislative branch 
     agencies are directed to implement policies regarding the 
     acquisition and use of Federal government vehicles, including 
     price limitations, equipment installation, and lifecycle 
     replacement procedures.
       Further, all legislative branch agencies are required to 
     implement internal controls over home-to-work vehicle 
     programs where vehicles are issued to employees for the 
     purposes of responding to their assignment to fulfil an 
     official duty in a timely manner. These controls shall 
     include an annual recertification of home-to-work 
     justifications for any vehicle assigned to agency 
     personnel for this purpose. This process should also 
     include the justification for the issuance of the home-to-
     work vehicle, the estimated roundtrip mileage for the 
     vehicle to and from the employee's residence on a daily 
     basis, and the estimated cost to the agency resulting from 
     the assignment of the vehicle.

                                TITLE I

                                 Senate

       The agreement includes $1,150,349,000 for Senate 
     operations. This relates solely to the Senate and is in 
     accordance with long practice under which each body 
     determines its own housekeeping requirements and the other 
     concurs without intervention. Any change from the allocation 
     of funds in the subaccounts within this appropriation is 
     subject to the approval of the Senate Committee.


              OFFICES OF THE MAJORITY AND MINORITY LEADERS

       The agreement provides $6,196,000 for the offices of the 
     majority and minority leaders to be equally divided.


               OFFICES OF THE MAJORITY AND MINORITY WHIPS

       The agreement provides $3,876,000 for the offices of the 
     majority and minority whips to be equally divided.


                         CONFERENCE COMMITTEES

       The chairman of each conference committee may transfer to 
     or from amounts provided for salaries of each conference to 
     the account for conference committee expenses within the 
     ``Miscellaneous Items'' appropriation.


 OFFICES OF THE SECRETARIES OF THE CONFERENCE OF THE MAJORITY AND THE 
                       CONFERENCE OF THE MINORITY

       The agreement provides $940,000 for the majority and 
     minority conference secretaries to be divided equally.


                           POLICY COMMITTEES

       The chairman of each policy committee may transfer to or 
     from amounts provided for salaries of each policy committee 
     to the account for policy committee expenses within the 
     ``Miscellaneous Items'' appropriation.


                         OFFICE OF THE CHAPLAIN

       The Office of the Chaplain may transfer to or from amounts 
     provided for salaries to the account for expenses within the 
     ``Miscellaneous Items'' appropriation.


                        OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY

       The agreement provides Salaries funds to the Secretary of 
     the Senate without apportionment in the interest of 
     facilitating financial management duties and restructuring 
     that occurs from time to time. The Senate Committee expects 
     to be notified in writing in a timely manner of any changes 
     to the staffing levels, distribution of staff, or related 
     funding.


             OFFICE OF THE SERGEANT AT ARMS AND DOORKEEPER

       The agreement provides funding to enhance the IT help desk 
     experience in the Senate; continue implementation of a 
     Unified Communications system; and fully support the 
     continued initiative to expand the

[[Page S9200]]

     Senate's cybersecurity capabilities. The SAA is directed to 
     update the Senate Committee regularly as the Cybersecurity 
     Department develops its Senate cyber defense strategic plan.
       The agreement provides these funds to the Sergeant at Arms 
     without apportionment in the interest of facilitating 
     financial management duties and restructuring that occurs 
     from time to time. The Senate Committee expects to be 
     notified in writing in a timely manner of any changes to the 
     staffing levels, distribution of staff, or related funding.
       Security and Emergency Preparedness.--The SAA is expected 
     to continue increasing its outreach efforts to offices to 
     improve security coordination and emergency preparedness.
       Employee Assistance Program.--The agreement fully funds the 
     requested increase for SAA to expand resources, including 
     adding counselors and developing website services, to meet 
     increased demand and support the mental and emotional health 
     needs and wellbeing of the Senate community.
       Office Cybersecurity.--The SAA is expected to utilize funds 
     provided for fiscal year 2023 to conduct third-party 
     cybersecurity auditing services and resiliency assessments 
     for all Senate offices and committees to protect the privacy 
     and integrity of office networks; provide enhanced 
     cybersecurity training for each Senate office; institute 
     protections against insider threats; and institute and 
     operationalize enhanced privacy protections within the Senate 
     network.


        OFFICES OF THE SECRETARIES FOR THE MAJORITY AND MINORITY

       The agreement provides $2,126,000 for the offices of the 
     secretaries for the majority and minority to be equally 
     divided.


            OFFICE OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL OF THE SENATE

       The agreement provides $8,150,000 for the Office of 
     Legislative Counsel of the Senate, which will allow the 
     office to hire three attorneys in fiscal year 2023.


                        SECRETARY OF THE SENATE

       The Secretary of the Senate shall provide semi-annual 
     updates to the Senate Committee on FMIS progress, challenges 
     and stakeholder feedback starting within 90 days of enactment 
     of this Act.
       The Senate Committee provides these funds to the Secretary 
     of the Senate without apportionment in the interest of 
     facilitating financial management duties and restructuring 
     that occurs from time to time. The Senate Committee expects 
     notification in writing in a timely manner of any cumulative 
     changes in excess of 10 percent to the funding levels between 
     programs, projects, or activities.

                   Contingent Expenses of the Senate


             SERGEANT AT ARMS AND DOORKEEPER OF THE SENATE

       The Senate Committee provides these funds to the Sergeant 
     at Arms without apportionment in the interest of facilitating 
     financial management duties and restructuring that occurs 
     from time to time. The Senate Committee expects to be 
     notified in writing in a timely manner of any cumulative 
     changes in excess of 10 percent to the funding levels between 
     programs, projects, or activities.
       Hearing Room Audiovisual Equipment.--The agreement provides 
     $5,000,000 in no-year funding to partially or fully renovate 
     two to four hearing rooms per year, as per the request. The 
     SAA is expected to continue working with the Architect of the 
     Capitol and the Committees on Appropriations and Rules and 
     Administration to develop a replacement plan to avoid 
     equipment failure.
       Unified Communications and Collaboration (UCC) System.--The 
     SAA is directed to continue providing semi-annual updates to 
     the Senate Committee on the development and implementation of 
     the UCC system.
       Training to ``Stop the Bleed''.--The Senate Committee 
     commends the SAA Office of Security, Emergency Preparedness 
     and Continuity's continued utilization of ``Stop the Bleed'' 
     training on the Capitol campus and SAA is encouraged to 
     continue to do so.
       Congressional Staff Directory.--The SAA is directed, in 
     consultation with relevant support offices and agencies, 
     including the Office of the Clerk and Chief Administrative 
     Officer of the House of Representatives, to explore the 
     creation of a centrally-managed staff directory for Congress 
     and congressional support agencies. Within 120 days of 
     enactment of this Act, SAA shall brief the Senate Committee 
     on the feasibility of creating a centralized congressional 
     staff directory.
       Cyber Tools.--The SAA is directed to evaluate and provide a 
     briefing within 180 days of enactment of this Act to the 
     Senate Committee on the feasibility of Member office and 
     committee use of cloud-based word processing and document 
     real-time collaboration tools in a SAA-hosted and Chief 
     Information Officer-operated data center.
       Cyber Care Education for Senators and Staff.--The SAA 
     shall, in coordination with this Committee, the Senate 
     Committee on Rules and Administration, and Senate majority 
     and minority leadership, continue to explore ways--including 
     the options presented in the bipartisan Senators' Personal 
     Cybersecurity Working Group's report--in which it may better 
     provide voluntary cybersecurity support to any Senator 
     seeking assistance with their personal devices or accounts 
     under existing ethics, rules, appropriations, statutory, and 
     civil law. The SAA is directed to provide increased training 
     opportunities so that members and staff traveling abroad are 
     aware of cyber threats and appropriate best practices to 
     mitigate such threats to their devices, and to brief this 
     Committee on whether members and staff are utilizing these 
     awareness tools.
       Sergeant at Arms Fellowships Fund.--The agreement provides 
     $6,277,000 to establish the McCain-Mansfield Fellowship 
     Program, established under Senate Resolution 443 (117th 
     Congress), and the SFC Sean Cooley and SPC Christopher Horton 
     Congressional Gold Star Family Fellowship Program, 
     established under Senate Resolution 442 (117th Congress). 
     Rather than provide this funding as requested in the fiscal 
     year budget request, as amended, as part of the expenses of 
     the Office of the Sergeant at Arms and Doorkeeper, the 
     Committee provides a separate funding account and parameters 
     for expenditures under section 102 of this Act. The SAA shall 
     submit a spending plan to the Committee within 60 days of 
     enactment of this Act detailing how the agency intends to 
     allocate fiscal year 2023 funds.
       Miscellaneous Items.--The agreement provides $27,814,000 
     for miscellaneous items to remain available until September 
     30, 2025. Any deviation of more than 10 percent cumulatively 
     from the stated levels for each item will require the 
     customary prior approval of the Senate Committee.
       The following table sets forth the apportionment of funds 
     under this appropriation:

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       Senate Employees' Child Care Center.--The Committee 
     acknowledges that Congress may only provide funding for 
     employee benefits and travel expenses for employee training 
     activities for the Senate Employees' Child Care Center 
     (SECCC), and the reimbursement of salaries for the executive 
     director and assistant director of the center, which are 
     provided for and fully funded in this Act. The Committee 
     further acknowledges that funds for all other employees' 
     salaries and operational expenses are paid by the Center's 
     operating budget and cannot be supplemented with appropriated 
     funds. Furthermore, the Committee understands these payments 
     will free up the Center's operating budget to provide salary 
     increases for all day care faculty, allowing the Center to 
     pay its staff competitive salaries comparable with the House 
     of Representatives Child Care Center.
       Consultants Including Agency Contributions.--The agreement 
     provides authority for the appointment and payment of 
     consultants not to exceed the daily rate for maximum standing 
     committee rate. All of the consultants may be appointed at an 
     annual rate of compensation not to exceed the maximum annual 
     rate for a standing committee. The following summarizes the 
     current authority and limitations:
        Majority Leader.--Twelve consultants.
        Minority Leader.--Twelve consultants.
        Legislative Counsel (Subject to President Pro 
     Tempore Approval).--Two consultants.
        President Pro Tempore.--Three consultants.
        President Pro Tempore Emeritus.--One consultant.
       Senate Employees' Child Care Center Agency Contributions.--
     The agreement provides for the payment of agency contribution 
     costs as authorized by Public Law 102-90, approved August 14, 
     1991, and Public Law 103-50, approved July 2, 1993, for 
     employees of the Senate Employees' Child Care Center.
       Senate Employees' Child Care Center Reimbursement of 
     Salaries.--The agreement provides for the reimbursement costs 
     to the Senate Employees' Child Care Center for the basic pay 
     paid to the Executive Director and for the basic pay paid to 
     the Assistant Director of the Center, as authorized by 
     Senate Resolution 329, approved July 29, 2021.
       Senate Employees' Child Care Center Training Classes and 
     Conference Costs.--The agreement provides for the 
     reimbursement of any individual employed by the Senate 
     Employees' Child Care Center for the cost of training classes 
     and conferences in connection with the provision of child 
     care services and for travel, transportation, and subsistence 
     expenses incurred in connection with the training classes and 
     conferences, as authorized by Public Law 104-197, approved 
     September 16, 1996.
       Student Loan Repayment Program.--The agreement provides 
     $9,800,000 for the repayment of student loans, for eligible 
     employees at the discretion of the employing office, to 
     enhance recruitment and retention of Senate staff.
       Enhanced Member Protection.--The Senate Sergeant at Arms is 
     directed to develop a residential security system program 
     designed to allow Senators, at their discretion, to 
     participate. The program is focused on assisting in 
     mitigating increased risks to the physical security of 
     Senators' residences both in the District of Columbia and in 
     their home states. The agreement provides a total of 
     $2,500,000 to be available until expended for the development 
     and administration of a residential security system program.
       The residential security system program, via threat 
     assessments, shall identify threats and risks vulnerabilities 
     on the residences of Senators. The program will be 
     administered under memorandums of understanding with each 
     Senate office that elects to participate. The MOU shall 
     govern the security system options recommended to mitigate 
     identified risks, the terms of the installation, funding, 
     monitoring and maintenance of the system. The costs for the 
     respective residential security systems shall be at the 
     participating Senator's expense through the use of personal 
     or campaign funds. If a Senator certifies that personal or 
     campaign funding is unavailable to address the threat 
     assessment recommendations, the Sergeant at Arms may, on a 
     case-by-case basis, utilize available residential security 
     system no year funds to address remaining requirements.
       Within 60 days of enactment of this Act, the Senate 
     Sergeant at Arms shall provide to the Committee, details 
     regarding the administration of the program including the 
     process by which the Sergeant at Arms will make 
     determinations when to utilize no year funding.


        SENATORS' OFFICIAL PERSONNEL AND OFFICE EXPENSE ACCOUNT

       The following table illustrates the several components of 
     the SOPOEA.

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       Senate Intern Compensation.--The agreement includes 
     $7,000,000 for the sole purpose of providing financial 
     compensation to interns.

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                       ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS

       The agreement includes provisions that require that amounts 
     remaining in the Senators' Official Personnel and Office 
     Expense Account be used for deficit reduction or to reduce 
     the Federal debt, establish appropriations for the Senate 
     Sergeant at Arms Fellowships Fund, also known as the McCain-
     Mansfield and SFC Sean Cooley and SPC Christopher Horton 
     Congressional Gold Star Family Fellowships Programs, and 
     amend funding authorities in Division I of the Consolidated 
     Appropriations Act, 2021 for Senate Democratic Leadership 
     offices.

                        HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

       The agreement includes $1,847,571,000 for House operations. 
     This item relates solely to the House and is in accordance 
     with long practice under which each body determines its own 
     housekeeping requirements and the other concurs without 
     intervention. The language included in House Report 117-389 
     should be complied with and carry the same emphasis as the 
     language included in the explanatory statement, unless 
     specifically addressed to the contrary in this explanatory 
     statement.
       Housing of U.S. House of Representatives Interns.--The 
     agreement modifies the reporting date included in House 
     Report 117-389 by instead directing the House Intern Resource 
     Office to provide the list of intern housing resources and 
     findings by not later than 180 days after the establishment 
     of the House Intern Resource Office.
       Lobbyist Disclosure Unique Identifier.--The agreement 
     modifies the direction included in House Report 117-389 
     within the Office of the Clerk for the Lobbyist Disclosure 
     Unique Identifier. The agreement instead provides $1,400,000 
     to the House of Representatives Modernization Initiatives 
     Account for the Lobbyist Disclosure Unique Identifier.
       House Center for Well-Being.--The agreement modifies the 
     direction included in House Report 117-389 to notify the 
     Committee within 30 days in advance of contract awards. The 
     agreement instead directs the House Center for Well-Being and 
     the Office of Employee Assistance to provide monthly updates 
     on the Center's plans and program offerings to staff.
       House Information Websites.--The agreement modifies the 
     direction included in House Report 117-389 for the House 
     Information Resource Office and instead, directs the 
     Congressional Data Task Force, in coordination with relevant 
     stakeholders, to submit a report, no later than 180 days 
     after enactment of this Act, on the feasibility and cost of 
     (1) centralizing congressional information websites on one 
     platform; (2) improving user accessibility for persons with 
     disabilities and non-English speakers; (3) developing 
     educational resources for the public on how to find 
     congressional information; and (4) improving the current user 
     interface.
       Supervisory Training Development.--The agreement modifies 
     the direction included in House Report 117-389. The Office of 
     Diversity and Inclusion (ODI) is directed to coordinate with 
     the Congressional Staff Academy to develop an ongoing 
     curriculum for diversity, equity, inclusion, and 
     accessibility training for managers and supervisors, which 
     can be held quarterly. ODI and the Congressional Staff 
     Academy are directed to brief the House Committee on 
     Appropriations on a bi-monthly basis on their efforts towards 
     creating such a curriculum, until such curriculum is 
     developed.
       Extension of Staff Benefits.--The Committee commends the 
     Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Task Force on a Diverse 
     and Talented House Workforce for providing the House Staff 
     Benefits and Retention Study as well as further detailed 
     research on implementing various employee benefit programs. 
     The agreement provides the House authority to use 
     appropriated funds for a childcare subsidy program. The CAO 
     Task Force on a Diverse and Talented House Workforce, in 
     coordination with the Committee on House Administration, 
     shall work to develop a House Child Care Subsidy Program that 
     provides childcare subsidies for House staffers who do not 
     use the House of Representatives Child Care Center. The Task 
     Force shall provide details for the program along with an 
     implementation plan to the House Committee on Appropriations 
     within 60 days of enactment of this Act.


                       ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS

       The agreement provides for unspent amounts remaining in the 
     Members' Representational Allowances (MRA) account to be used 
     for deficit or debt reduction; places a limitation on the 
     amount available to lease vehicles; limits the sharing of 
     House information by Federal entities; establishes a House 
     Intern Resource Office; expands the authorities of the House 
     Student Loan Program; amends the House Services Revolving 
     Fund; clarifies the use of the Child Care Center Revolving 
     Fund; and provides authority for a child care subsidy 
     program.

                              JOINT ITEMS

                        Joint Economic Committee

       The agreement includes $4,283,000 for salaries and 
     expenses.

                      Joint Committee on Taxation

       The agreement includes $12,948,000 for salaries and 
     expenses.

                   Office of the Attending Physician

       The agreement includes $4,181,000.

             Office of Congressional Accessibility Services


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement includes $1,702,000 for salaries and 
     expenses.

                             CAPITOL POLICE


                                SALARIES

       The agreement includes $541,730,000 for salaries of the 
     United States Capitol Police (USCP), of which $3,450,000 
     shall be for agreed upon protection activities for Members of 
     Congress and shall be available until September 30, 2024, 
     with notification to the Committees on Appropriations prior 
     to the obligation of funds. No more than $64,912,000 is 
     provided for overtime in fiscal year 2023.
       Enhanced Member Protection.--The Committees recognize the 
     emerging mission requirements for the United States Capitol 
     Police, especially in the area of Member protection resulting 
     from increased threats and directions of interest toward 
     Senators and House Members. In light of this, the Committees 
     continue to find that ensuring the continuity of government 
     must include protecting the physical security of Members of 
     Congress both in the District of Columbia and in their home 
     states, districts and territories. The agreement provides a 
     total of $9,478,000, which includes $3,450,000 for Salaries 
     and $6,028,000 for General Expenses to support the 
     Department's recommendations to enhance Member protection 
     including providing a security program for Congressional 
     Leadership, expanding Dignitary Protection Division services 
     and expanding USCP field office presence.
       In order to better define the impact of the emerging 
     mission on the Department's operations, the Committees 
     provide $1,000,000 in General Expenses for the development of 
     a comprehensive Concept of Operations Plan. This plan should 
     include, but is not limited to: defined mission requirements, 
     both current and projected; validated post requirements; the 
     construct of necessary departmental entities to support the 
     mission, to include projected reorganizations; resulting 
     sworn and civilian staffing requirements; sworn official and 
     civilian leadership requirements; mandatory training 
     requirements and professional skills development 
     requirements; projected staffing levels and commensurate 
     additional duty projections to meet the mission; areas for 
     contracted support to the mission, to include the future use 
     of contracted Capitol Security Officers or other like 
     resources; the use of technology to meet mission 
     requirements; and a comprehensive mitigation plan to address 
     and mitigate threats and directions of interest against 
     Members. The plan shall be completed not later than one year 
     after the date of enactment of this Act. The Department shall 
     provide updates on its progress to develop a Concept of 
     Operations plan monthly to the Committees.
       Risk-Based Protections for Members of Congress.--The 
     agreement provides $2,000,000 in Salaries for the Department 
     to provide Member security outside of the Capitol campus in 
     the National Capital Region (NCR), as warranted by risk-based 
     analyses. The USCP is expected to continue working closely 
     with the House and Senate SAAs and law enforcement partners 
     in the NCR, as well as educating Member offices, on USCP's 
     strategy for Members' protection within the NCR while off the 
     Capitol Grounds, per the December 2018 report detailing the 
     Department's plans to enhance off-campus Member security in 
     the NCR.
       Mutual Aid Reimbursement.--USCP is directed to continue to 
     expand the use of other Federal, state and local law 
     enforcement entities through reimbursable mutual aid 
     agreements and to ensure collaborative two-way sharing of 
     critical information to meet mission requirements. The 
     Department is encouraged to further expand the use of 
     regionally-based Department personnel to focus efforts of 
     addressing threats against Members and their families.
       State and Local Law Enforcement Reimbursement.--The 
     Department is reminded to continue making earnest efforts to 
     increase outreach on mutual aid agreements. The Department is 
     directed to issue a report to the Committees within 180 days 
     of enactment of this Act on the mutual aid reimbursement 
     costs compared to providing personal security details for 
     Members, options for enhancing security for Members and staff 
     working in their districts through mutual aid, and the USCP 
     outreach efforts to date on mutual aid.
       Contract Security Officers.--The Department is directed to 
     submit to the Committees within 90 days of enactment of this 
     Act a report on the performance of contract Capitol Security 
     Officers' (CSO) ability to assist the USCP with meeting 
     mission requirements. The report should be placed in the 
     respective House and Senate security offices for viewing by 
     authorized representatives of the Committees and should 
     include decisional metrics for CSO location utilization and 
     the benefits of supporting sworn officers. The report must 
     detail any additional security training that may be needed in 
     future contracts and the background check process. 
     Additionally, the report is required to detail the estimated 
     cost savings for using CSOs.
       Reopening the Capitol Campus.--Reopening the Capitol campus 
     safely to the public is the Committees' priority. The 
     Department is directed to provide the Committees, within 30 
     days after the enactment of this Act, a written reopening 
     plan, to include a list of post/mission requirements with 
     identified protection/security activity, sworn staffing 
     requirements, Capitol Security Officer staffing requirements, 
     additional duty requirements, and other resources needed to 
     reopen

[[Page S9207]]

     the Capitol campus to its pre-pandemic posture, factoring in 
     any additional requirements resulting from January 6, 2021, 
     and increasing threats against Members of Congress. Further, 
     the Department shall provide an update to the Committees 
     every 30 days on the resources available to staff those posts 
     and challenges that impact the proposed reopening plan. 
     Lastly, the plan should include a proposed timeline for 
     reopening, understanding that fluctuations in hiring occur, 
     as well as additional security requirements, and can alter 
     the schedule. As the plan will include law enforcement 
     sensitive information, it should be made available within the 
     respective House and Senate security offices to be viewed by 
     authorized representatives of the Committees.
       Responses to USCP OIG Recommendations.--When responding to 
     recommendations detailed in USCP OIG reports, the Department 
     is expected to develop cost proposals for each recommendation 
     to better inform the Committees on what resources would be 
     required to implement the recommendations, such as 
     organizational realignment, changes in position descriptions, 
     increased personnel, reassignment of existing personnel, and 
     additional training and equipment.
       USCP Office of Inspector General.--The agreement includes 
     funds to support not less than 12 full-time equivalent (FTE) 
     within the USCP OIG.


                            GENERAL EXPENSES

       The agreement includes $192,846,000 for general expenses of 
     the Capitol Police, of which $6,028,000 shall be for agreed 
     upon protection activities for Members of Congress and shall 
     be available until September 30, 2025.
       Arrest Summary Data.--The Committees commend the USCP for 
     their progress toward compliance with a directive to post 
     arrest summary information in a user-friendly format that is 
     searchable, sortable, downloadable, and is available on a 
     cumulative basis. The Committees thank the Department for 
     their briefing on arrest summary data. Furthermore, the 
     Department is directed to submit a report of arrests made 
     both on the Capitol complex and the surrounding Capitol Hill 
     community on a quarterly basis to the Committee.
       USCP Information Sharing.--The Department is encouraged to 
     continue increasing its efforts to communicate with Members 
     of Congress, congressional employees, and the public about 
     events occurring around the Capitol complex in a manner that 
     is consistent with and does not interfere with its primary 
     mission of protecting the Congress and the legislative 
     process.


                       ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS

       The agreement includes provisions to establish authorities 
     for volunteer chaplain services and additional protective 
     details.

                OFFICE OF CONGRESSIONAL WORKPLACE RIGHTS


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement includes $8,000,000 for salaries and 
     expenses, of which $2,500,000 shall remain available until 
     September 30, 2024.

                      CONGRESSIONAL BUDGET OFFICE


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement includes $63,237,000 for salaries and 
     expenses. The Congressional Budget Office is directed to 
     follow prior year directives adopted in Public Law 117-103, 
     on ``Promoting Transparency and Responsiveness''. As with 
     prior year budget submissions, the Committees expect CBO to 
     include in its fiscal year 2024 budget request details about 
     the agency's ongoing and future efforts to implement the 
     multi-year plan to increase its capacity to make CBO's work 
     as transparent and responsive as possible.

                        ARCHITECT OF THE CAPITOL

       The agreement includes $1,315,002,000 for the activities of 
     the Architect of the Capitol (AOC).
       AOC Vehicle Usage.--The AOC is required to comply with 31 
     U.S.C. 1343 and, as such, limited by the statutory controls 
     over motor vehicle acquisition and use, including price 
     limitation, equipment, and replacement of motor vehicles, and 
     per regulations set forth by the General Services 
     Administration (GSA). The AOC is also expected to adhere to 
     GSA regulations on official use of agency vehicles to perform 
     AOC's mission, including proper identification of the vehicle 
     as Federal government-issued and -owned, as well as home-to-
     work policies. None of the fund's appropriated under this Act 
     or any other Act, including previous Acts, may be used for a 
     home-to-work vehicle for the Architect of the Capitol or a 
     duly authorized designee.
       AOC Office of Inspector General.--Within the total, the 
     agreement provides no less than $6,110,000 for the AOC OIG. 
     The agreement includes the request of $495,000 for 3 
     additional FTE. The Committees also direct the AOC to ensure 
     that sufficient funding is available for contracts and other 
     expenses identified by the AOC OIG to fulfill its mission. 
     Finally, the Committees reiterate that the independence of 
     the AOC OIG is of the utmost importance.

                  Capital Construction and Operations

       The agreement includes $145,843,000 for Capital 
     Construction and Operations.
       Medical Surveillance.--The recommendation includes $317,000 
     to continue the program, administered by the OAP, for medical 
     exams and tests designed to detect and monitor employee 
     health effects resulting from hazardous chemical or physical 
     exposures in the workplace.
       Studying Sustainability.--The AOC's annual Performance and 
     Accountability Report (PAR) provides the results of the AOC's 
     financial performance each fiscal year, as well as 
     demonstrates the AOC's commitment to the accomplishment of 
     its mission and accountability for its financial resources. 
     As part of the PAR completed for fiscal year 2023, the AOC is 
     directed to report on greenhouse gas emissions analysis as 
     data is available for the Capitol complex. The AOC is also 
     directed to include information in each PAR that reflects all 
     significant measures taken to address efficient use of steam 
     and electricity. Lastly, the AOC is expected to include this 
     information as part of this report on an annual basis to 
     leverage energy conservation and maximize the use of energy 
     efficient sources throughout the legislative branch 
     facilities.

                            Capitol Building

       The agreement includes $80,589,000, for maintenance, care, 
     and operation of the Capitol Building, of which $6,099,000 
     shall remain available until September 30, 2027, and of which 
     $42,785,000 shall remain available until expended.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Budget:....................................        $31,705,000
Project Budget:
  House Kitchen and Exhaust Modernization............         23,900,000
  Senate Restaurant Renovation Program...............         18,885,000
  Minor Construction.................................          5,500,000
  Conservation of Fine and Architectural Art.........            599,000
                                                      ------------------
                                                              48,884,000
    Total, Capitol Building..........................        $80,589,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Hygiene Products.--The Committees appreciate and note the 
     AOC's efforts to ensure menstrual hygiene products are 
     available at no cost to all those who use restroom facilities 
     throughout the Capitol Complex Buildings and Grounds. The AOC 
     is expected to continue making bulk purchases of, storing, 
     and distributing menstrual hygiene products throughout the 
     Capitol Complex Buildings and Grounds, in coordination with 
     partnering agencies.
       Miscellaneous Improvements Notifications.--The Committees 
     appreciate the AOC's efforts to document and notify the 
     Committees of ``Miscellaneous Improvements projects,'' which 
     are completed projects that cost less than $5,000 for labor 
     and materials. The Committees continue to direct the AOC to 
     provide quarterly reports on Miscellaneous Improvements 
     projects, including a description and cost of each project 
     and the status of total funding set aside for this purpose.

                            Capitol Grounds

       The agreement includes $16,365,000 for the care and 
     improvements of the grounds surrounding the Capitol, House 
     and Senate Office Buildings, and the Capitol Power Plant, of 
     which $2,000,000 shall remain available until September 30, 
     2027.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Budget:....................................        $14,365,000
Project Budget:
  Minor Construction.................................          2,000,000
                                                      ------------------
                                                               2,000,000
    Total, Capitol Grounds...........................        $16,365,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

                        Senate Office Buildings

       The agreement includes $184,596,000 for the maintenance, 
     care, and operation of the Senate Office Buildings, of which 
     $66,000,000 shall remain available until September 30, 2027, 
     and $36,100,000 shall remain available until expended for 
     Committee Room Modernization.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Budget:....................................        $82,496,000
Project Budget:
  Low-Slope Roofing System Replacement, Dirksen......         16,600,000
  Fire Alarm Control & Panel Replacement, Dirksen....          4,300,000
  Exterior Door Conservation, Phase II, Dirksen......          3,200,000
  Senate Restaurant Renovation Program...............          8,100,000
  Air Handling Unit Refurbishments & Replacements,            25,000,000
   Phase I, Hart.....................................
  Senate Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility          3,500,000
   (SCIF) Construction...............................
  Committee Room Modernization.......................          5,000,000
  Senate Sergeant at Arms Relocation.................         28,000,000
  Minor Construction.................................          8,400,000
                                                      ------------------
                                                             102,100,000
    Total Senate Office Buildings....................       $184,596,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       For fiscal year 2023, the AOC is directed to follow prior 
     year directives adopted in Public Law 117-103, on ``Calder 
     Mountain and Clouds Sculpture'', ``Composting Program'', and 
     ``Senate Employees' Child Care Center (SECCC) Facility 
     Assessment''.
       Senate Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility (SCIF) 
     Assessment.--The Committee notes the progress made to study 
     and design SCIF space in the Senate. The recommendation 
     provides $3,500,000 in 5-year funds to be used for 
     construction of new SCIF space and to continue implementing 
     recommendations from the SCIF study including preliminary 
     planning, study, design, preconstruction, and construction of 
     additional sensitive compartmented information facility space 
     for the Senate, in coordination with the Office of Senate 
     Security and the Senate Committees on Appropriations and 
     Rules and Administration.

                         House Office Buildings

       The agreement includes $126,279,000 for the care and 
     maintenance of the House Office Buildings, of which 
     $14,500,000 shall remain available until September 30, 2026, 
     and $40,600,000 shall remain available until expended for the 
     restoration and renovation of the Cannon House Office 
     Building. Of the amount made available, $4,000,000 shall be 
     derived by transfer from the House Office Building Fund.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Budget:....................................        $71,179,000

[[Page S9208]]

 
Project Budget:
  CAO Project Support................................          7,000,000
  Minor Construction.................................          7,500,000
  Cannon Building Restoration........................         40,600,000
                                                      ------------------
                                                              55,100,000
    Total House Office Buildings.....................       $126,279,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Cannon Building Costs.--The Committees recognize the urgent 
     need to complete the Cannon Building renewal, which will 
     replace outdated building systems, conserve historic aspects 
     of the building, and optimize the functionality of Member 
     suites, among other improvements. The Committees remain 
     concerned that the cost of the Cannon renovation continues to 
     increase from an initial project estimate of $752,700,000 to 
     the current project estimate of $971,300,000.

                          Capitol Power Plant

       The agreement includes $166,951,000 for maintenance, care, 
     and operation of the Capitol Power Plant (CPP), of which 
     $68,600,000 shall remain available until September 30, 2027.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Budget:....................................        $98,351,000
Project Budget:
  Electrical Switchgear B and Pump Replacement, RPR,          30,400,000
   WRP...............................................
  Utility Tunnel Concrete Repairs at Russell Carriage          2,200,000
   Entrance, R Tunnel................................
  Utility Tunnel Concrete Repairs at 2nd and E                 1,800,000
   Capitol, R Tunnel.................................
  Roofing System Replacement, Boiler and Generator            16,500,000
   Plant.............................................
  Utility Tunnel Pipe Expansion Joint Replacement, Y          12,700,000
   Tunnel............................................
  Minor Construction.................................          5,000,000
                                                      ------------------
                                                              68,600,000
    Total, Capitol Power Plant.......................       $166,951,000
    Offsetting Collections...........................       (10,000,000)
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Resiliency Efforts.--The AOC is encouraged to continue to 
     find ways to increase the resilience and efficiency of the 
     Capitol complex by exploring the feasibility of procuring 
     increasingly efficient technologies that aim to make the 
     Capitol complex more resilient and independent over time. To 
     this end, the AOC shall brief the Committees within 60 days 
     of enactment of the Act on the incremental cost differences 
     between conventional and low-carbon or zero emissions 
     alternatives for the Capitol campus. In addition, the AOC 
     shall provide periodic updates on the status of the design, 
     construction and installation of the electronic vehicle (EV) 
     charging stations across the Capitol complex utilizing 
     appropriated funds, as well as the estimated costs associated 
     with operating and maintaining those EV charging stations, 
     and any plans for expanding EV charging stations for the 
     Senate and other areas within Capitol complex.

                     Library Buildings and Grounds

       The agreement includes $144,220,000 for Library of Congress 
     Buildings and Grounds, of which $108,000,000 shall remain 
     available until September 30, 2027.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Budget:....................................        $36,220,000
Project Budget:
  Collection Storage Module 7, Fort Meade............         51,000,000
  Sprinkler System Replacement for Collections, JAB..         37,500,000
  Fire Alarm and Audibility System Upgrade, Phase II,         15,500,000
   JMMB..............................................
  Minor Construction.................................          4,000,000
                                                      ------------------
                                                             108,000,000
    Total, Library Buildings and Grounds.............       $144,220,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Library of Congress Visitor Experience.--The Committees are 
     concerned with the accuracy of construction project cost 
     estimates and schedules it has received from the AOC 
     regarding the Library of Congress (LOC) Visitor Experience 
     project. The AOC, in collaboration with the LOC, is directed 
     until project completion to provide a bi-weekly project 
     status report to the Senate and House appropriations and 
     authorization committees of jurisdiction. The report should 
     include costs, schedules, and progress updates for specific 
     construction activities aligned to the three Visitor 
     Experience project initiatives: 1) the Orientation Gallery; 
     2) the Treasures Gallery; and 3) the Youth Center. Further, 
     it is the expectation of the Committees that the construction 
     for the three project initiatives will be completed by the 
     AOC in a phased manner over the following three years, 
     thereby ensuring minimal impact to public access at the 
     Thomas Jefferson Building; and all project construction 
     actions will be completed by no later than January 1, 2026, 
     to coincide with the activities set forth in Public Law 114-
     196, United States Semiquincentennial Commission Act of 2016. 
     Lastly, the AOC is reminded that it has a responsibility to 
     balance the historic preservation needs of the Thomas 
     Jefferson Building, with the necessary and evolving LOC 
     mission and engagement activities as directed by the 
     Congress.

             Capitol Police Buildings, Grounds and Security

       The agreement includes $402,907,000 for Capitol Police 
     Buildings, Grounds and Security, of which $346,255,000 shall 
     remain available until September 30, 2027. $238,455,000 shall 
     be for the Capitol Complex Security Program and $80,000,000 
     shall be for the design and construction of enhanced 
     screening vestibules.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Budget:....................................        $56,652,000
Project Budget:
  Barrier Lifecycle and Security Kiosk Repairs and             9,100,000
   Replacement, Phase VII, OSP.......................
  USCP K-9 Expansion Support.........................          2,500,000
  Capitol Complex Security Program...................        238,455,000
  Enhanced Screening Vestibules Design & Construction         80,000,000
   Program...........................................
  Computer Room Air Conditioning Unit Replacements,            6,200,000
   Phase I, OSF......................................
  Minor Construction.................................         10,000,000
                                                      ------------------
                                                             346,255,000
    Total, Capitol Police Buildings, Grounds and            $402,907,000
     Security........................................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Capitol Complex Security.--Ongoing threats against Members 
     of Congress and staff translates into the need for adequate 
     facilities and infrastructure support. The funds provided by 
     the Committees to AOC for core security needs will support 
     the USCP mission and its efforts to protect the Capitol 
     Complex. The AOC, in coordination with the USCP, is directed 
     to submit a detailed spend plan to the Committees on 
     Appropriations within 30 days of enactment of this Act for 
     both the Capitol Complex Security Program and the Enhanced 
     Screening Vestibules Design and Construction Program. The 
     spend plans, which may be held in a classified setting, 
     should include details for the execution of the funds 
     provided before any funds provided in this Act are obligated.

                             Botanic Garden

       The agreement includes $23,560,000 for the U.S. Botanic 
     Garden, of which $8,200,000 shall remain available until 
     September 30, 2027.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Budget:....................................        $15,360,000
Project Budget:
  Production Facility Renewal and Master Plan Design.          3,200,000
  Minor Construction.................................          5,000,000
                                                      ------------------
                                                               8,200,000
    Total, Botanic Garden............................        $23,560,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

                         Capitol Visitor Center

       The agreement includes $27,692,000 for the Capitol Visitor 
     Center.

                       Administrative Provisions

       The agreement includes provisions to prohibit payments of 
     bonuses to contractors behind schedule or over budget and 
     authorization to extend the Fallen Heroes Flag Act of 2016.

                          Library of Congress


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement includes $582,529,000 in direct 
     appropriations for the Library of Congress (the Library or 
     LOC) salaries and expenses. In addition, collections that may 
     be credited to this appropriation shall remain available 
     until expended. The recommendation includes the following to 
     remain available until expended: $12,245,000 for the Teaching 
     with Primary Sources program, $1,459,000 for the upgrade 
     of the Legislative Branch Financial Management System, 
     $250,000 for the Surplus Books Program, $1,500,000 for the 
     COVID-19 American History Project, and $3,976,000 for the 
     Veterans History Project. In addition, the agreement 
     includes the fiscal year 2023 request of $1,084,000 for 
     the Visitor Engagement Program, $4,997,000 for the Library 
     OCIO's role in the implementation and continuous 
     development of the Integrated Research and Information 
     System (IRIS), $1,510,000 for the Legislative Branch 
     Financial Management System (LBFMS), $1,475,000 for the 
     OCIO Cloud Program Office, $4,082,000 to strengthen IT 
     planning and project management, $1,762,000 for the 
     Financial Reports Division to address significant growth 
     in accounting, workflow, and financial reporting 
     requirements, $3,109,000 to expand enterprise planning and 
     management, and $128,000 to refresh workstations.
       The agreement does not include the requested $2,394,000 to 
     migrate the Library's personnel and payroll processing 
     services.
       Congress.gov Update Study.--The Committees recognize that 
     Congress.gov is an important tool for members, staff, and the 
     public to follow and understand the congressional process; 
     however, the Committees believe that Congress.gov could 
     provide a more complete picture of the full legislative 
     process. Therefore, the Library, in collaboration with the 
     Legislative Branch Data Interchange Working Group, is 
     directed to conduct a study to determine what changes are 
     necessary to allow Congress.gov to better track the 
     legislative process. The study should identify technical and 
     procedural changes required to track legislation that is 
     introduced and later included in a separate measure, 
     legislation introduced that is also filed as an amendment, 
     and a better tracking of the congressional committee process, 
     including the notation of recorded votes in committee. The 
     Library is encouraged to consult with congressional and 
     public stakeholders in the development of the study and to 
     submit a report to the Committees within 180 days of 
     enactment of this Act on the findings of the study.
       Information Literacy.--In recognition of the critical need 
     for Americans of all ages to develop information literacy 
     skills, the Committees direct the Library of Congress to 
     collaborate with and provide consultative support to the 
     Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) as IMLS 
     carries out the activities of the Information Literacy 
     Taskforce for the priorities and guidelines described in the 
     explanatory statement to accompany the Departments of Labor, 
     Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related 
     Agencies Appropriations Act, 2022 (Public Law 117-103).
       America 250.--The Library is encouraged to collaborate with 
     the IMLS on outreach and activities to engage the diverse 
     community of museums and libraries across the Nation in 
     celebrating and commemorating the semiquincentennial 
     anniversary of the Nation's founding.
       IT Modernization.--The Committees continue to invest in IT 
     modernization at the

[[Page S9209]]

     Library and the Library is directed to brief the Committees 
     regularly on these efforts.
       National Film and Sound Recording Preservation Programs.--
     The Committees recognize the important work of the National 
     Film Preservation Program and the National Sound Recording 
     Preservation Program, including the Federally chartered 
     National Film and National Recording Preservation 
     Foundations. Given that these programs were reauthorized 
     under the Library of Congress Sound Recording and Film 
     Preservation Programs Reauthorization Act of 2016 (Public Law 
     114-217), the Library is expected to continue to support 
     them.
       LOC Office of Inspector General.--The agreement includes 
     not less than $4,500,000 for the Library's OIG, to support no 
     fewer than 14 FTE.
       The Committees recognize that public access to the Main 
     Reading Room at the Library of Congress is limited and 
     acknowledges the challenge of maintaining a balance between 
     creating a quiet environment for researchers while also 
     allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of the Main Reading 
     Room. The Library is encouraged to continue exploring 
     opportunities to enhance public access to the Reading Room 
     while preserving the research environment and collections, 
     and directs the Library to keep the Committees apprised of 
     any new efforts to expand public access.
       Teaching with Primary Sources.--The agreement includes 
     $12,245,000 for the Library's successful Teaching with 
     Primary Sources program (TPS), a teacher training initiative 
     that encourages educators to incorporate the Library's online 
     primary sources into school curricula.
       The Committees believes that efforts to develop learning 
     initiatives on history, civics, and democracy have merit, and 
     encourages the Library to further its efforts in these areas, 
     including through the creation of a Lewis-Houghton Civics and 
     Democracy Initiative.
       Lewis-Houghton Civics and Democracy Initiative.--The 
     Committees believe that efforts to develop digitally-enabled 
     learning initiatives for secondary education based on 
     creative arts driven instruction, especially focused on 
     music, in history, civics, and democracy have merit. As such, 
     the Committees support the establishment of the Lewis-
     Houghton Civics and Democracy Initiative pilot within the 
     Library of Congress' Teaching with Primary Sources program to 
     be initiated in FY 2023. The Committees recognize the 
     established Library programmatic processes and resources for 
     successfully administering such an initiative, to include the 
     vast collections within the Library, such as the American 
     Folklife Center, the Songs of America collection and other 
     important Library archives and collections. The Committees 
     also recognize that grant products from this Initiative may 
     be used to enrich onsite Library of Congress activities, such 
     as but not limited to those planned by the Center for 
     Learning, Literacy and Engagement for the New Visitor 
     Experience.
       For the purposes of establishing a pilot for the 
     Initiative, the agreement includes $2,300,000, of which 
     $300,000 is available for the administration of the 
     Initiative. These funds are intended to develop and 
     administer a pilot educational program as a part of the 
     Initiative, which funds eligible organizations within the 
     United States and its territories to develop digitally-
     enabled comprehensive, assessable, teaching project-based 
     creative arts driven curricula programs focused on using the 
     digitized primary sources of the Library of Congress related 
     to history, civics and democracy.
       Applicants selected for participation in the educational 
     program should reflect a broad and diverse representation and 
     be selected on competitive bases, similar to established 
     criteria of programs administered by the Library. Applicants 
     shall demonstrate the background, partnerships and experience 
     to successfully implement the scope and intent of the pilot 
     program. Applicants for participation within the Initiative 
     do not need to have been a prior participant in a Library 
     program in order to be eligible for participation, following 
     existing Library announcement and selection processes.
       To further the many educational programs within the 
     Library, participants within the programs of the Initiative 
     will be included within the Teaching with Primary Sources 
     consortium partnership to leverage information, goals and 
     experiences of similar or emerging programs.
       Within 90 days of enactment of the Act, the Library shall 
     provide a plan to the Committees detailing the pilot, to 
     include eligibility for applying for funding from the 
     Initiative, the criteria to be used to select eligible 
     participants, the time-line for launching the pilot and an 
     overview of program administration. In addition, the Library 
     is directed to submit a report on the progress of the pilot 
     at the end of fiscal year 2023, detailing the successes and 
     challenges of administering the Initiative and providing 
     recommendations for refining, enhancing and expanding it 
     in future fiscal years.
       Visitor Experience Initiative.--Along with budget 
     submissions as part of the regular appropriations process, 
     the Library, in coordination with the AOC, is directed to 
     provide bi-weekly status reports to the Committees including 
     designs, cost estimates, and anticipated timelines for 
     construction and implementation of the Library's Visitor 
     Experience Master Plan. These updates should also include 
     progress on fundraising initiatives for private funding, 
     including both donations in-hand and verbal commitments, to 
     support the Visitor Experience.

                            Copyright Office


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement includes $53,762,000 in direct appropriations 
     to the Copyright Office. An additional $43,912,000 is made 
     available from receipts for salaries and expenses and 
     $3,000,000 is available from prior year unobligated balances, 
     for a total of $100,674,000.
       Information Technology Modernization.--The agreement 
     continues funding for Copyright Office IT modernization. The 
     Committees direct the Copyright Office and the Library's 
     Office of Chief Information Officer (OCIO) to continue to 
     work together to achieve efficiencies in shared services, 
     while allowing for mission specific modernization to be the 
     responsibility of the Copyright Office. The Committees direct 
     the Copyright Office to provide a detailed spend plan for the 
     IT modernization efforts intended to be addressed with the 
     funds provided in fiscal year 2023.

                     Congressional Research Service


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement includes $133,600,000 for salaries and 
     expenses for the Congressional Research Service (CRS). The 
     agreement includes $1,000,000 for the Congressional Legal 
     Education Forum as indicated in House Report 117-389.
       Expanding Existing Data Analysis Capacity.--CRS is 
     encouraged to explore ways to expand its ability to perform 
     quantitative analysis of research data. Within 180 days of 
     enactment of this Act, CRS shall brief the Committees on 
     proposed options for such capacity expansion, including costs 
     and resource requirements. The briefing should provide 
     detailed information about CRS' consideration of additional 
     research personnel, such as new analysts, data scientists, 
     methodologists and research assistants to expand quantitative 
     analysis on newer topics that assess the impact of 
     legislative proposals more broadly. The briefing should 
     include information regarding the evaluation of CRS' 
     infrastructure investment in statistical data science 
     visualization software to strengthen this research capacity. 
     Included in the briefing should be specific information about 
     the manner and means that CRS has determined will allow it to 
     respond in a more timely manner to the Congress.
       Congressional Research Service Modernization.--The 
     Committees continue to support modernization of CRS mission-
     specific information systems to increase efficiency of the 
     office while protecting confidentiality of congressional 
     data. The Committees encourage CRS to explore its processes 
     and utilization of resources to meet the needs of the 
     Congress in a more timely manner based on the time-sensitive 
     nature of the congressional schedule.
       Exploratory Study on Big Data Analytics.--CRS is directed 
     to engage with an external entity to produce a report 
     detailing the feasibility of CRS engaging in the analysis and 
     modeling of big data sets by highlighting the information 
     technology infrastructure, staffing, and analytical support 
     required to establish and maintain such a capability. The 
     completed study would be made available to the Committees on 
     Appropriations, the Senate Committee on Rules and 
     Administration, the Committee on House Administration, and 
     House and Senate leadership.

       National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement includes $58,657,000 for salaries and 
     expenses for the National Library Service for the Blind and 
     Print Disabled (NLS).
       The Library of Congress, in consultation and coordination 
     with the IMLS, is encouraged to provide increased assistance 
     to the State Library Administrative Agencies to expand access 
     to materials from the NLS, with additional support provided 
     to IMLS for these activities.
       Braille eReader and Talking Book Machine Initiative.--The 
     agreement modifies House language regarding funding for the 
     purchase of no less than 2,000 new e-Reader devices for 
     distribution through the NLS Machine Lending.

                       Administrative Provisions

       The agreement includes provisions related to reimbursable 
     and revolving funds and using appropriated funds for certain 
     positions within the Little Scholars Child Development 
     Center.

                      Government Publishing Office


                        CONGRESSIONAL PUBLISHING

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The agreement includes $82,992,000 for authorized 
     publishing, printing and binding for the Congress.

     Public Information Programs of the Superintendent of Documents


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The agreement includes $35,257,000.

                      Government Publishing Office


                   BUSINESS OPERATIONS REVOLVING FUND

       The agreement includes $11,605,000 to remain available 
     until expended.
       Office of Inspector General.--The agreement includes 
     $6,899,000 for GPO's OIG. The agreement does not include the 
     requested increase of $1,050,000 to migrate the OIG's human 
     capital (HC) and information technology (IT) support services 
     from GPO to a third-party Federal provider. The Committees 
     note that

[[Page S9210]]

     the OIG is not funded through a separate appropriation, but 
     the Director submits the OIG's request without interference, 
     as directed by these Committees. The Committees invest 
     considerable resources through the Business Operations 
     Revolving Fund annually in GPO's HC and IT services and 
     therefore expects the OIG to utilize them.

                    Government Accountability Office


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement includes $790,319,000 in direct 
     appropriations for salaries and expenses of the Government 
     Accountability Office, of which $5,000,000 shall remain 
     available until expended. In addition, $55,865,000 is 
     available from offsetting collections, for a total of 
     $846,184,000.
       Within the total, no less than $2,451,000 is provided for 
     the GAO Office of Inspector General to support no less than 
     11 FTE.
       Appropriations and Budget Law.--The Committees acknowledge 
     that GAO legal decisions, including those related to the 
     Congressional Review Act, are often fact specific and time 
     consuming. The Committees commend the improvements made by 
     the GAO Appropriations Law Group to increase resources 
     dedicated to supporting Congress' oversight role. GAO is 
     encouraged to continue to find ways to speed up its 
     adjudication process and to prioritize responding to 
     congressional inquiries and publishing formal legal decisions 
     stemming from congressional requests.
       Community Project Funding.--In accordance with the 
     direction in House language, the Committees direct GAO to 
     undertake an audit of Community Project Funding contained in 
     fiscal year 2023 appropriations legislation.
       Unimplemented Government Accountability Office 
     Recommendations.--Within 180 days of enactment of this Act, 
     GAO shall publish on its website and provide to the 
     Committees on Appropriations, the Senate Homeland Security 
     and Governmental Affairs Committee, and the House Committee 
     on Oversight and Reform a report estimating the cost savings 
     that could be achieved if agencies acted on GAO's 
     recommendations organized by agency.
       GAO Methodology for Estimating Savings.--The Committee 
     encourages GAO to explore a methodology for estimating 
     potential cost savings through budget requests. Given the 
     many assumptions and caveats required of such analysis, the 
     Committees expect a briefing from GAO to discuss such 
     methodology within 180 days of enactment of this Act.
       Hiring Practices at CRS.--In lieu of House language 
     regarding ``Hiring Practices at CRS, LOC shall provide a 
     report to the Committees on the Library's current barrier 
     analysis to hiring and promotion within 60 days of enactment 
     of this Act.
       Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.--The agreement 
     includes $5,000,000, to remain available until expended, for 
     oversight, including audits, and investigations, in support 
     of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, Public Law 
     117-58. The Comptroller General shall submit to the 
     Committees a spend plan for such oversight, not later than 90 
     days after the date of enactment of this Act.

           Congressional Office for International Leadership

       The agreement includes $6,000,000 for the Congressional 
     Office for International Leadership (COIL).
       Ukraine.--The Committees are deeply troubled by the Russian 
     invasion of Ukraine and support COIL's efforts to reinstate 
     programming in Ukraine as soon and safely as possible. The 
     Committee further urges COIL's engagement with Ukrainians 
     outside of Ukraine to maintain democratic advancement 
     throughout wartime.
       Expansion of Program to Other Countries.--COIL is directed 
     to keep the Committees apprised of any new developments on 
     expanding programming to include other regions and countries 
     that may be of strategic necessity to the United States.

   John C. Stennis Center for Public Service Training and Development

       The agreement includes $430,000 for the Stennis Center for 
     Public Service Training and Development.

                      TITLE II--GENERAL PROVISIONS

       The agreement continues provisions related to maintenance 
     and care of private vehicles; fiscal year limitations; rates 
     of compensation and designation; consulting services; costs 
     of the Legislative Branch Financial Managers Council; 
     limitation on transfers; guided tours of the Capitol; 
     limitation on telecommunications equipment procurement; 
     prohibition on certain operational expenses; plastic waste 
     reduction; and Capitol health and safety. The agreement does 
     not include the Removal of Offensive United States Capitol 
     Statuary language in House Report 117-389.

   DISCLOSURE OF EARMARKS AND CONGRESSIONALLY DIRECTED SPENDING ITEMS

       Pursuant to clause 9 of rule XXI of the Rules of the House 
     of Representatives and rule XLIV of the Standing Rules of the 
     Senate, neither the bill nor the explanatory statement 
     contains any congressional earmarks or congressionally 
     directed spending items, limited tax benefits or limited 
     tariff benefits as defined in the applicable House and Senate 
     rules.

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   DIVISION J--MILITARY CONSTRUCTION, VETERANS AFFAIRS, AND RELATED 
                   AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2023

       The joint explanatory statement accompanying this division 
     is approved and indicates congressional intent. Unless 
     otherwise noted, the language set forth in House Report 117-
     391 carries the same weight as language included in this 
     joint explanatory statement and should be complied with 
     unless specifically addressed to the contrary in this joint 
     explanatory statement. While some language is repeated for 
     emphasis, it is not intended to negate the language referred 
     to above unless expressly provided herein.
       In cases where House Report 117-391 or this explanatory 
     statement directs the submission of a report, that report is 
     to be submitted to the Committees on Appropriations of the 
     House of Representatives and the Senate. Where this 
     explanatory statement refers to the Committees or the 
     Committees on Appropriations, unless otherwise noted, this 
     reference is to the House of Representatives Subcommittee on 
     Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies 
     and the Senate Subcommittee on Military Construction, 
     Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies.

                                TITLE I

                         DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

                     Military Construction Overview

       Reprogramming Guidelines.--The following reprogramming 
     guidelines apply for all military construction and family 
     housing projects. A project or account (including the sub-
     elements of an account) which has been specifically reduced 
     by the Congress in acting on the budget request is considered 
     to be a congressional interest item and as such, prior 
     approval is required. Accordingly, no reprogrammings to an 
     item specifically reduced below the threshold by the Congress 
     are permitted.
       Recognizing the increased cost and complexity of military 
     construction projects since the threshold was previously 
     adjusted, the Committees support incrementally increasing the 
     reprogramming threshold to enable the Department to be more 
     agile and reduce delays associated with cost overruns. The 
     modified reprogramming criteria that apply to military 
     construction projects, as well as new housing construction 
     projects and improvements, is $6,000,000 or 25 percent of the 
     funded amount, whichever is less. To provide the Services the 
     flexibility to proceed with construction contracts without 
     disruption or delay, the costs associated with environmental 
     hazard remediation such as asbestos removal, radon abatement, 
     lead-based paint removal or abatement, and any other 
     legislated environmental hazard remediation may be excluded, 
     provided that such remediation requirements could not be 
     reasonably anticipated at the time of the budget submission. 
     This exclusion applies to projects authorized in this budget 
     year, as well as projects authorized in prior years for which 
     construction has not been completed.
       Furthermore, in instances where prior approval of a 
     reprogramming request for a project or account has been 
     received from the Committees, the adjusted amount approved 
     becomes the new base for any future increase or decrease via 
     below-threshold reprogrammings (provided that the project or 
     account is not a congressional interest item as defined 
     above).
       In addition to these guidelines, the Services are directed 
     to adhere to the guidance for military construction 
     reprogramming actions and notifications, including the 
     pertinent statutory authorities contained in Department of 
     Defense (DOD) Financial Management Regulation 7000.14-R and 
     relevant updates and policy memoranda.
       Military Construction Funding.--The agreement includes 
     $19,000,000,000, which is $6,846,035,000 above the budget 
     request, in a continued effort to support current and future 
     force readiness through critical infrastructure investments. 
     This level funds most authorized unfunded requirements and 
     addresses other priorities that have been historically 
     neglected in budget requests, such as resiliency and quality 
     of life projects. While Congress continues to provide funding 
     above the budget request for military construction, the 
     Committees encourage the Department to adequately resource 
     these accounts.
       Facilities Sustainment, Restoration and Modernization 
     (FSRM).--The Department of Defense is directed to continue 
     describing on form 1390 the backlog of FSRM requirements at 
     installations with future construction projects. For troop 
     housing requests, form 1391 should describe any FSRM 
     conducted in the past two years. Likewise, future 
     requirements for unaccompanied housing at the corresponding 
     installation should be included. Additionally, the forms 
     should include English equivalent measurements for projects 
     presented in metric measurement. Rules for funding repairs of 
     facilities under the Operation and Maintenance accounts are 
     described below:
       (1) components of the facility may be repaired by 
     replacement. Such replacement can be up to current standards 
     or codes;
       (2) interior arrangements and restorations may be included 
     as repair;
       (3) additions and new facilities may be done concurrently 
     with repair projects, as long as the final conjunctively 
     funded project is a complete and usable facility; and
       (4) the appropriate Service Secretary shall notify the 
     appropriate committees 21 days prior to carrying out any 
     repair project with an estimated cost in excess of 
     $7,500,000.
       Military Installation Resilience (MIR).--Since fiscal year 
     2020, the Committees have provided dedicated planning and 
     design and unspecified minor construction funding to support 
     installation resilience. The primary intent of this funding 
     has been to develop projects that mitigate climate change 
     risks to military installations. The Committees believe that 
     such investments are critical to installation readiness and 
     the agreement provides $90,000,000 for planning and design 
     and unspecified minor construction in Section 129 to continue 
     to develop projects, conduct studies and analyses, and update 
     Unified Facility Criteria that will directly enhance military 
     installation resilience. While prior year funding has been 
     allocated towards these efforts to an extent, the Committees 
     are concerned that the services have not adequately prepared 
     for or prioritized the development of MIR projects and their 
     integration into installation master planning, even at 
     installations where climate impacts are already observed. 
     Therefore, the Committees direct the Secretary of Defense and 
     the Secretary of each Military Department to provide a report 
     to the Committees no later than 90 days after enactment of 
     this Act on efforts to address military installation 
     resilience requirements. The report shall include the 
     following: (1) an explanation of what DOD and the Military 
     Departments are doing to develop the capacity and expertise 
     to scope and design climate resilience projects for 
     installations; (2) what direction DOD and the Military 
     Departments have given to installations to incorporate 
     military installation resilience projects into relevant 
     master planning processes; (3) details on how DOD and 
     the Military Departments are prioritizing MIR projects, 
     including how projects support other installation 
     resilience efforts, such as the DOD Readiness and 
     Environmental Protection Integration program; (4) how DOD 
     and the Military Departments are incorporating non-
     traditional engineering methods to mitigate climate risks 
     to installations, such as engineering with natural or 
     nature-based features; and (5) any other identified 
     barriers to planning and designing MIR projects.
       Child Development Centers (CDCs).--The agreement includes 
     $293,250,000 for construction of new child development center 
     projects and planning and design for future projects. This 
     investment of resources is necessary to address both 
     insufficient access to childcare facilities, as well as the 
     poor conditions of existing facilities. Such shortfalls in 
     capacity are an unacceptable burden to military families. The 
     Department is directed to assign greater priority to CDC 
     construction projects in future budget requests.
       United States Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM).--The 
     INDOPACOM area of responsibility is the largest combatant 
     command and requires a modern, resilient military presence to 
     ensure the continued strength of U.S. national security. 
     However, the Committees are concerned that the Services have 
     not properly prioritized projects within INDOPACOM in recent 
     fiscal years, instead choosing to fund projects that are 
     specifically beneficial to the Service and not necessarily 
     the joint theater mission. The agreement provides an 
     additional $50,000,000 for INDOPACOM planning and design and 
     unspecified minor construction to advance critical projects.
       Unfunded Priority Lists (UPL) and Future Years Defense 
     Program (FYDP).--The Committees direct the Department of 
     Defense and all Services, active and reserve components, as 
     well as combatant commanders, as required by law, to submit 
     updated UPL and FYDP lists to the congressional defense 
     committees for military construction projects no later than 
     10 days after the transmission of the annual President's 
     Budget. Combatant commanders are expected to include all 
     unfunded priorities in their respective UPL, to include 
     planning and design, unspecified minor construction, and 
     major construction projects--regardless of which Service is 
     the project executive agent.
       Project Cost Increases.--The agreement provides 
     $2,449,069,000 in fiscal year 2023 to supplement 
     discrepancies between outdated cost estimates and current 
     cost estimates. The Committees are concerned that the 
     Department is not being proactive in determining future cost 
     increases when developing and submitting project cost 
     estimates to Congress in the yearly President's budget 
     request, FYDP, and UPLs. Therefore, the agreement directs the 
     Department to implement practices to better address future 
     cost increases, and in lieu of the direction to provide 
     monthly cost adjustments in House Report 117-391, the 
     agreement directs the Secretary of Defense, in consultation 
     with the Services, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and 
     Naval Facilities Engineering Command to provide a report 
     within 90 days of enactment on specific and repeatable steps 
     taken to improve cost-estimating.
       Integration of Innovative Construction Materials.--The 
     Committees are aware of new and innovative building materials 
     that are becoming more prevalent within the construction 
     industry. The Committees are concerned that DOD continues to 
     rely on traditional building materials, using standardized 
     designs across the Department based on those same traditional 
     materials and that the Unified Facilities Criteria (UFC) and 
     Unified Facilities Guide Specifications (UFGS) are not up to 
     date with innovative and sustainable assets. Therefore, the 
     agreement directs the Assistant Secretary of Defense for 
     Energy, Installations, and Environment to provide a report to 
     the Committees

[[Page S9224]]

     within 180 days of enactment of this Act on its efforts to 
     incorporate sustainable products into the UFC and UFGS, 
     integrate sustainable building materials into its designs, 
     and any resources needed to accomplish these efforts.
       Laboratory Infrastructure.--The Committees continue to 
     recognize the importance of DOD laboratory infrastructure and 
     that investment is needed to modernize outdated science and 
     technology laboratories and test and evaluation facilities, 
     particularly where needed to address safety and environmental 
     concerns on installations. Therefore, the agreement provides 
     $120,000,000 for planning and design, unspecified minor 
     construction and authorized major construction projects to 
     address unfunded laboratory requirements, as appropriated in 
     Section 128.
       Open Air Burn Pans.--No later than 180 days after enactment 
     of this Act, the Department is directed to submit a report to 
     the Committees detailing a plan to eliminate burning of 
     hazardous materials, including open air burn pans, at 
     installations located in the United States. Such a plan 
     should detail at what installations each Service is still 
     utilizing open-air burning, including burn pans, and how the 
     Department will transition away from the use of open-air burn 
     pans.

                      Military Construction, Army

       The agreement provides $1,553,825,000 for ``Military 
     Construction, Army'', which is $708,260,000 above the budget 
     request. Within this amount, the agreement includes 
     $275,651,000 for study, planning, design, architecture, and 
     engineering services, and host nation support. Within the 
     total for Military Construction, Army, $658,260,000 is for 
     the following projects in the following amounts:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
            State                         Location                           Project                  Amount
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AK                            Fort Wainwright.................  Physical Fitness Center Annex...     $99,000,000
AR                            Pine Bluff Arsenal..............  Access Control Point: Planning         1,800,000
                                                                 and Design.
AR                            Pine Bluff Arsenal..............  Sewage and Sanitation                  1,000,000
                                                                 Modernization: Unspecified
                                                                 Minor Construction.
GA                            Fort Gordon.....................  Child Development Center              21,000,000
                                                                 Addition.
GA                            Fort Gordon.....................  Child Development Center:              5,000,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
HI                            Fort Shafter....................  Water System Upgrade............      33,000,000
HI                            Tripler Army Medical Center.....  Water System Upgrade............      38,000,000
HI                            Schofield Barracks..............  Company Operations Facilities...     111,000,000
HI                            Schofield Barracks..............  Firehouse Station Facility:            9,000,000
                                                                 Unspecified Minor Construction.
KS                            Fort Riley (Custer Hill)........  Unaccompanied Enlisted Barracks:      15,930,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
LA                            Fort Polk.......................  Joint Operations Center: Cost to      61,000,000
                                                                 Complete..
LA                            Fort Polk.......................  Child Development Center: Cost         9,000,000
                                                                 to Complete.
LA                            Fort Polk.......................  Information System Facility:          35,360,000
                                                                 Cost to Complete.
MD                            Aberdeen Proving Ground.........  Test Maintenance Fabrication           7,600,000
                                                                 Facility: Planning and Design.
MS                            Engineer Research and             General Purpose Lab and Test          20,000,000
                               Development Center.               Building.
MO                            Fort Leonard Wood...............  Central Issue Facility: Planning       5,300,000
                                                                 and Design.
NC                            Fort Bragg......................  Child Development Center:              3,600,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
NC                            Fort Bragg......................  Automated Infantry Platoon             1,350,000
                                                                 Battle Course: Planning and
                                                                 Design.
NC                            Fort Bragg......................  Automated Record Fire Range:           2,000,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
NC                            Fort Bragg......................  Multipurpose Machine Gun (MPMG         1,600,000
                                                                 2): Planning and Design.
NM                            White Sands Missile Range.......  Las Cruces Substation:                 6,400,000
                                                                 Unspecified Minor Construction.
NM                            White Sands Missile Range.......  Missile Assembly Building:             3,600,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
NM                            White Sands Missile Range.......  One Company Satellite Fire             6,400,000
                                                                 Station: Unspecified Minor
                                                                 Construction.
NY                            Fort Drum.......................  Automated Record Fire Plus             3,600,000
                                                                 (ARF+) Range: Planning and
                                                                 Design.
NY                            Fort Drum.......................  Access Control Point:                  6,800,000
                                                                 Unspecified Minor Construction.
NY                            Fort Drum.......................  Physical Fitness Testing               3,060,000
                                                                 Facility: Planning and Design.
OK                            Fort Sill.......................  Advance Individual Training           85,800,000
                                                                 Complex Phase 2.
OK                            McAlester AAP...................  Ammunition Demolition Shop......      39,000,000
TX                            Fort Hood.......................  Infantry Squad Battle Course:            600,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
TX                            Fort Hood.......................  Automated Infantry Platoon             1,220,000
                                                                 Battle Course: Planning and
                                                                 Design.
TX                            Fort Hood.......................  Automated Machine Gun Range:           1,240,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
TX                            Fort Hood.......................  Barracks: Cost to Complete......      19,000,000
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Pacific Firefighting Support.--The Committees remain 
     concerned about the conditions of firefighting facilities 
     from which Federal firefighters, Army Forestry Technicians, 
     Army Wildland Firefighters, and Emergency Service Technicians 
     work to support military installations in the State of 
     Hawaii, including Pohakuloa Training Area, and encourage the 
     Army to adequately resource necessary upgrades to these 
     facilities.

              Military Construction, Navy and Marine Corps

       The agreement provides $4,345,320,000 for ``Military 
     Construction, Navy and Marine Corps'', which is $592,929,000 
     above the budget request. Within this amount, the agreement 
     includes $515,473,000 for study, planning, design, 
     architecture, and engineering services. Within the total for 
     Military Construction, Navy and Marine Corps, $492,929,000 is 
     for the following projects in the following amounts:

 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
            State                         Location                           Project                  Amount
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AZ                            MCAS Yuma.......................  Water Treatment Plant: Planning       $5,000,000
                                                                 and Design.
CA                            Camp Pendleton..................  Child Development Center........      32,100,000
CA                            MCRD San Diego..................  Recruit Barracks................      82,230,000
FL                            MCSF Blount Island..............  Communications Infrastructure          5,949,000
                                                                 Modernization: Planning and
                                                                 Design.
GA                            Marine Corps Logistics Base       Consolidated Communication             6,400,000
                               Albany.                           Facility: Planning and Design.
HI                            JB Pearl Harbor-Hickam..........  Missile Magazines...............     103,350,000
HI                            JB Pearl Harbor-Hickam..........  Waterfront Production Facility:       20,000,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
HI                            MCB Hawaii......................  Bachelor Enlisted Quarters......      87,900,000
ME                            Portsmouth Naval Shipyard.......  Child Development Center:              2,500,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
SC                            MCRD Parris Island..............  Recruit Barracks................      37,600,000
SC                            MCRD Parris Island..............  Recruit Barracks................      38,300,000
VA                            Naval Air Station Oceana........  Child Development Center:              1,200,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
VA                            Norfolk Naval Shipyard..........  Child Development Center:              2,300,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
WA                            NAS Whidbey Island..............  Aircraft Airfield Pavement            68,100,000
                                                                 Improvements.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Plan (SIOP).--The 
     Committees support SIOP and believe the restoration of 
     deferred maintenance availabilities, along with the public 
     shipyard dry dock investments, recommended by the plan are 
     critical. The Committees urge the Secretary of the Navy to 
     prioritize the timely funding of public shipyard 
     infrastructure, and in particular, the dry dock and shore 
     infrastructure necessary to support critical maintenance of 
     surface and submarine fleets by public shipyards. Of note, 
     after several years of delays and cancellations associated 
     with the Waterfront Production Facility at Pearl Harbor Naval 
     Shipyard, the Committees urge the Navy to synchronize the 
     construction schedule for the new facility with that of the 
     Dry Dock 3 replacement. Additionally, the Committees expect 
     clear communication from the Navy to the Committees regarding 
     additional flexibilities or authorizations necessary to 
     successfully coordinate with tribal governments for 
     expeditious completion of SIOP. The Committees remain 
     concerned that without additional authorities from Congress, 
     the Navy risks delaying critical dry dock construction 
     projects and harming its valuable relationships with tribal 
     governments. Recognizing the importance of SIOP and the need 
     to adequately resource the development of future projects, in 
     addition to fully funding the budget request of 
     $1,260,185,000, the agreement further provides $50,000,000 
     above the request for planning and design.
       Navy Water Purification and Fuel Distribution 
     Infrastructure.--The agreement includes an additional 
     $25,000,000 for the Navy for planning and design in order to 
     advance future water treatment and bulk fuel distribution 
     infrastructure. The Department is directed to submit a spend 
     plan for these additional funds to the Committees no later 
     than 60 days after enactment of this Act.

                    Military Construction, Air Force

       The agreement provides $2,614,996,000 for ``Military 
     Construction, Air Force'', which is $559,540,000 above the 
     budget request. Within this amount, the agreement includes 
     $251,634,000 for study, planning, design, architecture, and 
     engineering services. Within the total for Military 
     Construction, Air Force, $509,540,000 is for the following 
     projects in the following amounts:

[[Page S9225]]



----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
            State                         Location                           Project                  Amount
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AK                            JB Elmendorf-Richardson.........  Contaminated Soil Removal: Cost       $5,200,000
                                                                 to Complete.
AL                            Maxwell AFB.....................  Commercial Vehicle Inspection         15,000,000
                                                                 Gate.
AZ                            Luke AFB........................  Child Development Center:              2,700,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
CO                            U.S. Air Force Academy..........  Cemetery Expansion: Unspecified        3,400,000
                                                                 Minor Construction.
FL                            Eglin AFB.......................  F-35A ADAL Developmental Test:         2,500,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
FL                            Eglin AFB.......................  F-35A Developmental Test 2-Bay         3,700,000
                                                                 Test Hangar: Planning and
                                                                 Design.
FL                            Eglin AFB.......................  F-35A Developmental Test 2-Bay         4,100,000
                                                                 MXS Hangar: Planning and Design.
FL                            Patrick SFB.....................  Patrick SFB Consolidated              97,000,000
                                                                 Communications Facility.
GA                            Moody AFB.......................  23d Security Forces Squadron           1,100,000
                                                                 Operations Facility: Planning
                                                                 and Design.
GA                            Moody AFB.......................  Rescue Squadron Guardian Angel         5,770,000
                                                                 Operations Facility: Planning
                                                                 and Design.
NC                            Seymour Johnson AFB.............  Combat Arms and Maintenance            3,300,000
                                                                 Complex: Planning and Design.
NC                            Seymour Johnson AFB.............  KC-46 Alert Facility: Planning           530,000
                                                                 and Design.
NM                            Cannon AFB......................  Add/Alter B575 for Security            4,000,000
                                                                 Forces: Unspecified Minor
                                                                 Construction.
NM                            Cannon AFB......................  SOF Construct Munitions Storage        8,000,000
                                                                 Area: Planning and Design.
NM                            Holloman AFB....................  F-16 Formal Training Unit              4,140,000
                                                                 Airfield Requirements: Planning
                                                                 and Design.
NM                            Holloman AFB....................  Holloman High-Speed Test Track:        5,000,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
NM                            Kirtland AFB....................  58 SOW/PJ/CRO Pipeline Dorm (432      11,160,000
                                                                 RM): Planning and Design.
NM                            Kirtland AFB....................  ADAL Systems & Digital                 2,000,000
                                                                 Engineering Lab: Planning and
                                                                 Design.
NM                            Kirtland AFB....................  Apparatus Bay for Fire Station         4,200,000
                                                                 5: Unspecified Minor
                                                                 Construction.
NM                            Kirtland AFB....................  Explosives Operations Building:          540,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
NM                            Kirtland AFB....................  Small Arms Storage Facility:           2,800,000
                                                                 Unspecified Minor Construction.
NM                            Kirtland AFB....................  Joint Navigational Warfare             4,700,000
                                                                 Center: Planning and Design.
NM                            Melrose Air Force Range.........  Fire Department: Unspecified           5,600,000
                                                                 Minor Construction.
NV                            Nellis AFB......................  Dormitory: Planning and Design..       7,200,000
NY                            Air Force Research Laboratory--   Construct HF Antennas, Newport,        4,200,000
                               Hanscom Air Force Base Newport    and Stockbridge Test Annexes:
                               Test Annex.                       Unspecified Minor Construction.
OH                            Wright-Patterson AFB............  Child Development Center........      29,000,000
OH                            Wright-Patterson AFB............  Human Performance Wing                 4,000,000
                                                                 Laboratory: Planning and Design.
OK                            Tinker AFB......................  E-7 Operations Center: Planning       15,000,000
                                                                 and Design.
OK                            Tinker AFB......................  KC-46A 1-Bay Depot Corrosion         114,000,000
                                                                 Control Hangar.
OK                            Tinker AFB......................  KC-46A 2-Bay Program Depot            90,000,000
                                                                 Maintenance Hangar.
TX                            JBSA Lackland AFB...............  Basic Military Training Recruit        5,400,000
                                                                 Dormitory 8: Cost to Complete.
TX                            JBSA Randolph AFB...............  Child Development Center........      29,000,000
WA                            Fairchild AFB...................  ADAL KC-135 Flight Simulator....       7,300,000
WA                            Fairchild AFB...................  Consolidate TFI Base Operations:       8,000,000
                                                                 Cost to Complete.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Joint Intelligence Analysis Complex.--Understanding the 
     critical importance of the Joint Intelligence Analysis 
     Complex (JIAC) to the regional intelligence architecture of 
     the United States and its partners, the Committees provide 
     $421,000,000 above the budget request for the construction of 
     the complex, despite the late-in-cycle identification of the 
     significant funding requirement as part of the Air Force's 
     unfunded priorities list. The Committees are disappointed in 
     the lack of prioritization the Air Force and Office of the 
     Secretary of Defense have shown towards this project, despite 
     its significant importance to national security and our 
     allies in Europe and Africa. The Committees direct the Air 
     Force, in coordination with the Office of the Secretary of 
     Defense, to provide quarterly updates on the status of the 
     obligation of funds for the construction of the JIAC. 
     Further, the Committees direct the Office of the Secretary of 
     Defense to provide a report to the Committees within 90 days 
     of enactment of this Act, and a briefing to the Committees, 
     on why the Services consistently fail to prioritize joint 
     combatant command projects, and how these problems can be 
     remedied.
       Global Strike Command Security Gates.--The Committees 
     remain concerned about deficient security gates at Air Force 
     Global Strike Command installations, particularly as the Air 
     Force plans to make significant investments in strategic 
     weapons systems and weapons generation facilities at these 
     bases. The Committees urge the Air Force to plan and program 
     sufficient funding to address security gate deficiencies at 
     these installations in its future years defense program.

                  Military Construction, Defense-Wide


                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The agreement provides $2,626,078,000 for ``Military 
     Construction, Defense-Wide'', which is $209,680,000 above the 
     budget request. Within this amount, the agreement includes 
     $506,927,000 for study, planning, design, architecture, and 
     engineering services. Within the total for Military 
     Construction, Defense-Wide, $109,680,000 is for the following 
     projects in the following amounts:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
            State                         Location                           Project                  Amount
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DE                            Dover AFB.......................  Armed Services Whole Blood              $350,000
                                                                 Processing Laboratory-East
                                                                 Replacement: Planning and
                                                                 Design.
FL                            MacDill AFB.....................  SOF Joint MISO Web-Operations          8,730,000
                                                                 Facility: Planning and Design.
FL                            MacDill AFB.....................  SOF Operations Integration            50,000,000
                                                                 Facility.
MO                            Fort Leonard Wood...............  Hospital Replacement Inc. 5.....      31,300,000
NC                            Fort Bragg......................  Albritton Middle School                7,000,000
                                                                 Addition: Planning and Design.
NC                            Camp Lejeune....................  Lejeune Schools Modernization:         6,600,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
SC                            MCRD Parris Island..............  Ambulatory Care Clinic                 4,800,000
                                                                 Replacement (Dental): Planning
                                                                 and Design.
SC                            MCAS Beaufort...................  Fuel Pier Replacement: Planning          900,000
                                                                 and Design.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Energy Resilience and Conservation Investment Program 
     (ERCIP).--The agreement supports DOD's investments in energy 
     efficiency, resilience, renewable energy systems, and energy 
     security, and as such provides a total of $653,250,000 for 
     ERCIP, an increase of $100,000,000 above the request. The 
     additional funds in section 131 will allow ERCIP to address 
     cost increases from projects funded in the fiscal year 2022 
     enacted Act and fiscal year 2023 Act.
       United States Southern Command (SOUTHCOM).--The Committees 
     recognize that some facilities in SOUTHCOM, particularly at 
     Naval Air Station Key West, which houses Joint Interagency 
     Task Force-South (JIATF-S), are no longer in adequate 
     condition due to aging, corrosive local climate, natural 
     disasters, and lack of prioritization by the Services. The 
     Committees also recognize that the installation is critical 
     to SOUTHCOM's mission but requires some improvements, 
     including increasing resilience and ensuring modernization. 
     Therefore, the agreement directs the Department to submit a 
     report no later than 120 days after enactment of this Act 
     detailing the condition of all facilities at Naval Air 
     Station Key West, the status of the new Command and Control 
     Facility, as well as the Department's plan to update or 
     replace facilities in poor condition across SOUTHCOM.
       Stormwater Management Projects.--The Committees recognize 
     that resilient built and natural infrastructure on and around 
     military bases are essential in maintaining military 
     readiness. The Committees also recognize the increasing 
     variability of the frequency and intensity of precipitation 
     globally and the need to mitigate flooding and runoff. The 
     agreement supports the implementation of stormwater best 
     management practices, but recognizes there is currently no 
     dedicated, authorized DOD entity that prioritizes stormwater 
     management projects on and off military installations. 
     Therefore, the agreement directs the Department to conduct a 
     feasibility study and submit a report no later than 180 days 
     after enactment of this Act assessing the potential creation 
     of a program that prioritizes stormwater management projects 
     in order to enhance resilience and improve water quality in 
     stormwater-stressed ecosystems, where the Department has 
     restoration partnership obligations, and where land 
     subsidence and the expansion of non-permeable surfaces 
     exacerbate flooding on and around military bases.

               Military Construction, Army National Guard

       The agreement provides $459,018,000 for ``Military 
     Construction, Army National Guard'', which is $161,740,000 
     above the budget request. Within this amount, the agreement 
     includes $83,435,000 for study, planning, design, 
     architecture, and engineering services. Within the total for 
     Military Construction, Army National Guard, $151,540,000 is 
     for the following projects in the following amounts:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
            State                         Location                           Project                  Amount
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AK                            JB Elmendorf-Richardson.........  Aircraft Maintenance Hangar.....     $63,000,000
AR                            Camp Robinson...................  Automated Multipurpose Machine         9,500,000
                                                                 Gun Range.
FL                            Camp Blanding...................  Automated Multipurpose Machine         1,080,000
                                                                 Gun Range: Planning and Design.
FL                            Camp Blanding...................  Scout Recce Gunnery Complex:           2,300,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
GA                            Fort Gordon.....................  National Guard/Reserve Center          2,100,000
                                                                 Building: Planning and Design.

[[Page S9226]]

 
IL                            Chicago.........................  National Guard Readiness Center        3,500,000
                                                                 Alteration: Planning and Design.
ME                            Saco............................  Southern Maine Readiness Center:       3,000,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
ME                            Woodville Training Center.......  Range Complex: Planning and            1,400,000
                                                                 Design.
MN                            Camp Ripley.....................  Dining Facility, Collective            3,000,000
                                                                 Training: Unspecified Minor
                                                                 Construction.
MO                            Aviation Classification Repair    AVCRAD Aircraft Maintenance            5,600,000
                               Activity Depot.                   Hangar Addition Phase IV:
                                                                 Planning and Design.
NC                            Morrisville.....................  Army Aviation Flight Facility          4,500,000
                                                                 #1: Planning and Design.
NH                            Berlin..........................  Hangar and Aviation Operations         5,200,000
                                                                 Building: Unspecified Minor
                                                                 Construction.
NH                            Concord.........................  National Guard Wellness Center:        2,000,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
NJ                            Lawrenceville...................  Administration Building/General        5,950,000
                                                                 Purpose: Unspecified Minor
                                                                 Construction.
NM                            Rio Rancho......................  Vehicle Maintenance Shop:                600,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
NY                            Lexington Armory................  National Guard Readiness Center        3,580,000
                                                                 Addition/Alteration: Planning
                                                                 and Design.
OR                            Camp Umatilla...................  Transient Training Officers            6,000,000
                                                                 Housing: Unspecified Minor
                                                                 Construction.
PA                            Fort Indiantown Gap.............  Eastern ARNG Aviation Training         2,700,000
                                                                 Site (EAATS) Post-Initial
                                                                 Military Training Unaccompanied
                                                                 Housing: Planning and Design.
PA                            New Castle......................  National Guard Readiness Center:       2,360,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
VT                            Ethan Allen AFB.................  Civil Support Team Facility:           1,300,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
VT                            Ethan Allen AFB.................  Gold Star Pavilion: Unspecified          900,000
                                                                 Minor Construction.
VT                            Ethan Allen AFB.................  Micro-Grid System: Planning and        1,170,000
                                                                 Design.
VT                            Ethan Allen Firing Range........  Cantonment Area for Training:          3,500,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
VT                            Ethan Allen Firing Range........  Castle Trail Bypass (All Season          500,000
                                                                 Road): Planning and Design.
WV                            Kenova..........................  Armed Forces Readiness Center          4,300,000
                                                                 ADD/ALT: Unspecified Minor
                                                                 Construction.
WV                            Martinsburg.....................  National Guard Readiness Center:       1,500,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
WV                            Wheeling........................  AASF#2 Hangar ADD/ALT:                 6,000,000
                                                                 Unspecified Minor Construction.
WV                            Williamstown....................  AASF#1 Hangar ADD/ALT:                 5,000,000
                                                                 Unspecified Minor Construction.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

       National Guard Biathlon Programs.--The Committees continue 
     to support the National Guard's role in administering the 
     U.S. military's biathlon program and the agreement includes 
     $8,000,000 above the President's budget request in 
     unspecified minor construction for the update of biathlon 
     facilities that enable engagement and training. The Director 
     of the Army National Guard is directed to provide a spend 
     plan for the use of these funds within 60 days of enactment 
     of this Act.
       Readiness Centers.--The Committees note that many Army 
     National Guard units utilize outdated and substandard 
     facilities which can negatively impact the unit's ability to 
     meet readiness, recruiting and retention, and training 
     objectives. Facilities with physical shortfalls of greater 
     than 50 percent of authorized space, such as those in 
     Jamestown, North Dakota, are particularly concerning. The 
     Committees encourage the Army National Guard to allocate 
     sufficient funding to address such facilities in future 
     budget requests.
       Lodging Facilities.--The Committees are aware of lodging 
     shortfalls near Army National Guard training centers and 
     encourage the Army National Guard to allocate appropriate 
     funding towards lodging requirements in future budget 
     requests, particularly for installations with new training 
     and readiness requirements.

               Military Construction, Air National Guard

       The agreement provides $279,353,000 for ``Military 
     Construction, Air National Guard'', which is $130,470,000 
     above the budget request. Within this amount, the agreement 
     includes $56,982,000 for study, planning, design, 
     architecture, and engineering services. Within the total for 
     Military Construction, Air National Guard, $112,970,000 is 
     for the following projects in the following amounts:

 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
            State                         Location                           Project                  Amount
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AL                            Montgomery Regional Airport Base  F-35 Weapons Load Crew Training       $6,800,000
                                                                 Facility.
AZ                            Morris Air National Guard Base..  Base Entry Complex..............      12,000,000
FL                            Jacksonville Air National Guard   F-35 Munitions Maintenance &             530,000
                               Base.                             Inspection Facility: Planning
                                                                 and Design.
FL                            Jacksonville Air National Guard   F-35 Construct Munitions Storage         770,000
                               Base.                             Area Admin & Pad: Planning and
                                                                 Design.
IL                            Scott AFB.......................  Maintenance Hangar & Shops:            2,500,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
MO                            Jefferson Barracks ANGB.........  Combat Arms Training and                 730,000
                                                                 Maintenance Facility: Planning
                                                                 and Design.
MO                            Jefferson Barracks ANGB.........  ADAL Security Forces Facility:         4,500,000
                                                                 Unspecified Minor Construction.
MO                            Rosecrans ANGB..................  Maintenance Hangar: Planning and       3,400,000
                                                                 Design.
MO                            Rosecrans ANGB..................  Parking Apron: Planning and            2,000,000
                                                                 Design.
NH                            Newington.......................  Small Arms Range: Unspecified          2,000,000
                                                                 Minor Construction.
NJ                            Atlantic City International       ADAL MAIN HANGAR: Planning and         3,000,000
                               Airport.                          Design.
NJ                            Atlantic City International       Main Gate Complex: Unspecified         5,100,000
                               Airport.                          Minor Construction.
OH                            Rickenbacker ANGB...............  Small Arms Range................       8,000,000
OR                            Kingsley Field ANGB.............  B210 Communications Building:          5,000,000
                                                                 Unspecified Minor Construction.
RI                            Quonset Point ANGB..............  Consolidated Headquarters             46,000,000
                                                                 Medical & Dining Facility.
VT                            Burlington International Airport  Cyber Operations Squadron              1,000,000
                                                                 Building: Planning and Design.
WV                            McLaughlin ANGB.................  C-130J Apron Expansion..........       7,500,000
WV                            McLaughlin ANGB.................  Construct Indoor Small Arms              640,000
                                                                 Range: Planning and Design.
WV                            McLaughlin ANGB.................  Squadron Operations Building:          1,500,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                  Military Construction, Army Reserve

       The agreement provides $193,878,000 for ``Military 
     Construction, Army Reserve'', which is $94,000,000 above the 
     budget request. Within this amount, the agreement includes 
     $24,829,000 for study, planning, design, architecture, and 
     engineering services. Within the total for Military 
     Construction, Army Reserve, $74,000,000 is for the following 
     projects in the following amounts:

 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
            State                         Location                           Project                  Amount
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
GA                            Dobbins ARB.....................  Army Reserve Center: Planning         $5,000,000
                                                                 and Design.
WI                            Fort McCoy......................  Transient Training Enlisted           38,000,000
                                                                 Barracks.
WI                            Fort McCoy......................  Transient Training Officer            31,000,000
                                                                 Barracks.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                  Military Construction, Navy Reserve

       The agreement provides $36,837,000 for ``Military 
     Construction, Navy Reserve'', which is $6,500,000 above the 
     budget request. Within this amount, the agreement includes 
     $9,090,000 for study, planning, design, architecture, and 
     engineering services.

                Military Construction, Air Force Reserve

       The agreement provides $85,423,000 for ``Military 
     Construction, Air Force Reserve'', which is $28,800,000 above 
     the budget request. Within this amount, the agreement 
     includes $27,573,000 for study, planning, design, 
     architecture, and engineering services. Within the total for 
     Military Construction, Air Force Reserve, $35,800,000 is for 
     the following projects in the following amounts:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                State                           Location                       Project                Amount
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MS..................................  Keesler AFB.................  Aeromedical Evacuation           $10,000,000
                                                                     Training Facility.
NY..................................  Niagara Falls ARS...........  Combined Operations and            2,800,000
                                                                     Alert Facility: Planning
                                                                     and Design.
OK..................................  Tinker AFB..................  10th Flight Test Squadron         12,500,000
                                                                     Operations Facility.
VA..................................  Joint Base Langley-Eustis...  Intelligence Group Facility.      10,500,000
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page S9227]]

  


     North Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment Program

       The agreement provides $220,139,000 for the ``North 
     Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment Program,'' 
     which is $10,000,000 above the budget request, to support 
     U.S. allies and partners, deter aggression by the Russian 
     Federation, and promote democratic governance, peace, and 
     stability in Europe.

               Department of Defense Base Closure Account

       The agreement provides $574,687,000 for the ``Department of 
     Defense Base Closure Account'', which is $290,000,000 above 
     the budget request.
       Navy Base Closure and Realignment (BRAC) Remediation.--The 
     agreement includes an additional $90,000,000 above the budget 
     request for the Navy to accelerate environmental remediation 
     at installations closed under previous BRAC rounds and for 
     the demolition or removal of non-historically designated 
     buildings and structures under Navy control where the 
     sampling or remediation of radiologically contaminated 
     materials have been the subject of substantiated allegations 
     of fraud. Furthermore, the Navy is directed to provide a 
     spend plan for these additional funds to the Committees no 
     later than 60 days after enactment of this Act.
       Perfluorooctane Sulfonate (PFOS) and Perfluorooctanoic Acid 
     (PFOA).--The Committees continue to be concerned about the 
     extent of PFOS/PFOA contamination at closed U.S. military 
     installations and how that contamination is measured. 
     Therefore, the agreement includes an additional $200,000,000 
     above the budget request within the Base Closure Account to 
     increase the pace of cleanup at the military installations 
     affected by PFOS/PFOA. The Department is directed to submit a 
     spend plan for these additional funds to the Committees no 
     later than 60 days after enactment of this Act.

                             Family Housing


                            Item of Interest

       Military Housing Privatization Initiative (MHPI).--The 
     Committees believe that the MHPI management companies have 
     woefully neglected responsibilities outlined in their 
     partnership agreements with the Services. The Committees 
     continue to receive evidence of poor housing conditions, 
     inadequate maintenance response times, mishandling of claims, 
     indifference towards the wellbeing of servicemembers and 
     their families, and some incidences of illegal incentive fee 
     fraud. Therefore, the agreement provides an additional 
     $30,000,000 for increased oversight of DOD's housing 
     portfolio, including government owned and controlled family 
     housing, and privatized family housing. Additionally, the 
     agreement directs each Service to submit a report no later 
     than 120 days after enactment of this Act detailing: (1) the 
     current condition of all MHPI housing, including the current 
     backlog of maintenance requests; (2) a summary of all MHPI 
     tenant complaints; (3) a performance review of each MHPI 
     management company; and (4) an update on all known and 
     alleged incidences of incentive fee fraud. Furthermore, the 
     agreement directs the Services to brief the Committees and 
     provide a spend plan on how it will use the additional 
     funding no later than 45 days after enactment of this Act.

                   Family Housing Construction, Army

       The agreement provides $169,339,000 for ``Family Housing 
     Construction, Army'', which is the same as the budget 
     request.

             Family Housing Operation and Maintenance, Army

       The agreement provides $446,411,000 for ``Family Housing 
     Operation and Maintenance, Army'', which is $10,000,000 above 
     the budget request.

           Family Housing Construction, Navy and Marine Corps

       The agreement provides $337,297,000 for ``Family Housing 
     Construction, Navy and Marine Corps'', which is the same as 
     the budget request.

    Family Housing Operation And Maintenance, Navy and Marine Corps

       The agreement provides $378,224,000 for ``Family Housing 
     Operation and Maintenance, Navy and Marine Corps'', which is 
     $10,000,000 above the budget request.

                 Family Housing Construction, Air Force

       The agreement provides $232,788,000 for ``Family Housing 
     Construction, Air Force'', which is the same as the budget 
     request.

          Family Housing Operation and Maintenance, Air Force

       The agreement provides $365,222,000 for ``Family Housing 
     Operation and Maintenance, Air Force'', which is $10,000,000 
     above the budget request.

         Family Housing Operation and Maintenance, Defense-Wide

       The agreement provides $50,113,000 for ``Family Housing 
     Operation and Maintenance, Defense-Wide'', which is the same 
     as the budget request.

         Department of Defense Family Housing Improvement Fund

       The agreement provides $6,442,000 for the ``Department of 
     Defense Family Housing Improvement Fund'', which is the same 
     as the budget request.

 Department of Defense Military Unaccompanied Housing Improvement Fund

       The agreement provides $494,000 for the ``Department of 
     Defense Military Unaccompanied Housing Improvement Fund'', 
     which is the same as the budget request.

                       Administrative Provisions


                     (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)

       The agreement includes section 101 limiting the use of 
     funds under a cost-plus-a-fixed-fee contract.
       The agreement includes section 102 allowing the use of 
     construction funds in this title for hire of passenger motor 
     vehicles.
       The agreement includes section 103 allowing the use of 
     construction funds in this title for advances to the Federal 
     Highway Administration for the construction of access roads.
       The agreement includes section 104 prohibiting construction 
     of new bases in the United States without a specific 
     appropriation.
       The agreement includes section 105 limiting the use of 
     funds for the purchase of land or land easements that exceed 
     100 percent of the value.
       The agreement includes section 106 prohibiting the use of 
     funds, except funds appropriated in this title for that 
     purpose, for family housing.
       The agreement includes section 107 limiting the use of 
     minor construction funds to transfer or relocate activities.
       The agreement includes section 108 prohibiting the 
     procurement of steel unless American producers, fabricators, 
     and manufacturers have been allowed to compete.
       The agreement includes section 109 prohibiting the use of 
     construction or family housing funds to pay real property 
     taxes in any foreign nation.
       The agreement includes section 110 prohibiting the use of 
     funds to initiate a new installation overseas without prior 
     notification.
       The agreement includes section 111 establishing a 
     preference for American architectural and engineering 
     services for overseas projects.
       The agreement includes section 112 establishing a 
     preference for American contractors in United States 
     territories and possessions in the Pacific and on Kwajalein 
     Atoll, or in countries bordering the Arabian Gulf.
       The agreement includes section 113 requiring congressional 
     notification of military exercises when construction costs 
     exceed $100,000.
       The agreement includes section 114 allowing funds 
     appropriated in prior years for new projects authorized 
     during the current session of Congress.
       The agreement includes section 115 allowing the use of 
     expired or lapsed funds to pay the cost of supervision for 
     any project being completed with lapsed funds.
       The agreement includes section 116 allowing military 
     construction funds to be available for five years.
       The agreement includes section 117 allowing the transfer of 
     funds from Family Housing Construction accounts to the Family 
     Housing Improvement Program.
       The agreement includes section 118 allowing transfers to 
     the Homeowners Assistance Fund.
       The agreement includes section 119 limiting the amount of 
     repair and maintenance funds for flag and general officer 
     quarters and allowing for notification by electronic medium. 
     The provision also requires an annual report on the 
     expenditures of each quarter.
       The agreement includes section 120 extending the 
     availability of funds in the Ford Island Improvement Account.
       The agreement includes section 121 allowing the transfer of 
     expired funds to the Foreign Currency Fluctuations, 
     Construction, Defense account.
       The agreement includes section 122 allowing for the 
     reprogramming of construction funds among projects and 
     activities subject to certain criteria.
       The agreement includes section 123 prohibiting the 
     obligation or expenditure of funds provided to the Department 
     of Defense for military construction for projects at 
     Arlington National Cemetery.
       The agreement includes section 124 providing additional 
     construction funds for unfunded requirements.
       The agreement includes section 125 directing all amounts 
     appropriated to ``Military Construction, Army'', ``Military 
     Construction, Navy and Marine Corps'', ``Military 
     Construction, Air Force'', and ``Military Construction, 
     Defense-Wide'' accounts be immediately available and allotted 
     for the full scope of authorized projects.
       The agreement includes section 126 extending the 
     eligibility of unobligated funding for fiscal year 2017 and 
     fiscal year 2018 projects that have not lapsed.
       The agreement includes section 127 defining the 
     congressional defense committees.
       The agreement includes section 128 providing funds for 
     various military construction accounts for DOD labs.
       The agreement includes section 129 providing additional 
     funds for planning and design and unspecified minor 
     construction in order to improve military installation 
     resilience.
       The agreement includes section 130 providing the Air Force 
     with funds for natural disasters.
       The agreement includes section 131 providing funds 
     specified to address cost increases identified subsequent to 
     the fiscal year 2023 budget request for authorized major 
     construction projects across various accounts.
       The agreement includes section 132 providing additional 
     funds for planning and design and authorized major 
     construction of child development centers.

[[Page S9228]]

       The agreement includes section 133 providing the Navy with 
     planning and design funds for water treatment and 
     distribution infrastructure.
       The agreement includes section 134 providing funds 
     specified to address cost increases for authorized major 
     construction projects funded by this Act.
       The agreement includes section 135 providing funds for 
     planning and design for construction at future foreign 
     military training sites.
       The agreement includes section 136 prohibiting the use of 
     funds in this Act to close or realign Naval Station 
     Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.

                                TITLE II

                     DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS

                           Items of Interest

       Unobligated Balances of Expired Discretionary Funds.--The 
     Department is directed to submit to the Committees on 
     Appropriations quarterly reports detailing all unobligated 
     balances of expired discretionary funds by fiscal year.
       Asset and Infrastructure Review.--The agreement provides no 
     funding for the Asset and Infrastructure Review account given 
     the Asset and Infrastructure Review Commission was not 
     seated. As the Department moves forward with the quadrennial 
     market assessments and Strategic Capital Investment Planning 
     Process, when recommending future infrastructure changes the 
     Department is urged to focus on maintaining or improving 
     veterans' access to medical care nationwide, including in 
     dense urban or rural areas. In addition, the Department 
     should consider how any changes could create additional 
     barriers to care (e.g., increased travel time).
       Foreign Medical Program.--The agreement urges the 
     Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to take steps to ensure 
     that the Foreign Medical Program better meets the needs of 
     veterans living overseas, particularly in remote and 
     underserved areas like the Freely Associated States. The 
     agreement further notes that information technology 
     improvements, such as facilitating electronic payment of 
     reimbursements, have great potential to improve the program 
     for veterans, and urges the Department to prioritize these 
     projects.
       Expenditure Plan for Leases and Enhanced-Use Leases.--The 
     agreement directs the Department to provide no later than 60 
     days of enactment of this Act, a detailed expenditure plan 
     for the funds appropriated in sections 705 and 707 of Public 
     Law 117-168, to enter into enhanced-use leases and major 
     medical facility leases. The plan should be to the project 
     level, reflect obligations and expenditures to date, and be 
     updated on at least an annual basis until the funds are fully 
     expended.

                            Toxic Exposures

       The Committees remain concerned by the long history of 
     servicemembers being exposed to toxic substances, including 
     Agent Orange, radiation, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances 
     (PFAS), and open burn pits, and continue to urge the 
     Department to make progress in how it addresses toxic 
     exposures, particularly with regards to research, improving 
     clinical efforts, and ensuring veterans are receiving the 
     disability and compensation benefits that they have earned. 
     The Committees note the landmark step forward taken with the 
     recently enacted Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring 
     our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act of 
     2022 (P.L. 117-168), and encourage VA to ensure it is 
     considering and addressing all varieties of toxic exposures, 
     including herbicides, that affect veterans of all eras of 
     service, including Gulf War veterans.
       Gender-Specific Impacts of Toxic Exposure.--The Committees 
     recognize the gender-specific impacts of toxic exposure and 
     direct the Department to ensure gender-specific research on 
     women veterans is included in its research efforts and that 
     sufficient numbers of women veterans are included in research 
     studies, as well as considering options to incorporate 
     gender-based differences into the Department's Center of 
     Excellence work, as directed in House Report 117-391.
       PFAS.--The agreement directs VA to continue collaborating 
     with DOD's PFAS Task Force, academia, and other health 
     institutions and agencies to monitor research activities, 
     results, and publications on the health effects from PFAS, in 
     addition to taking an active role of its own. Furthermore, 
     the Department is directed to report to the Committees within 
     120 days after enactment of this Act on the PFAS testing that 
     will be undertaken at VA, and whether evidence-based 
     information included in recommendations by the National 
     Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine will impact 
     VA decisions related to blood testing for this chemical and 
     establishing a PFAS registry for certain veterans (e.g., 
     military firefighters).
       Airborne Hazards and Burn Pits Center of Excellence.--To 
     assist in better understanding the effects of exposure to 
     open burn pits and airborne hazards on the health of 
     veterans, the agreement provides $15,000,000 for the Airborne 
     Hazards and Burn Pits Center of Excellence.
       Cancer Detection and Recurrence Monitoring Related to Toxic 
     Exposure.--The Committees recommend VA work with outside 
     entities specializing in genetic sequencing technologies and 
     diagnostic services to better address cancer diagnoses 
     related to toxic exposures. The Committees also encourage VA 
     to consider all options to better incorporate available early 
     detection diagnostics into veterans' care.
       Karshi Khanabad Air Base.--The Committees remain concerned 
     about servicemembers who were exposed to various hazards at 
     Karshi Khanabad Air Base, Uzbekistan, also known as ``K2'', 
     and urge the Department to implement the PACT Act's 
     provisions related to K2 as quickly as possible.
       Medical Research on Burn Pit Exposure.--The Department is 
     urged to partner with DOD to coordinate and share research on 
     airborne hazards from open-air burn pits and its impact to 
     servicemembers and veterans. The Departments are encouraged 
     to enter into a memorandum of understanding for research on 
     identifying and treating the health outcomes following 
     exposure of servicemembers to airborne hazards from open-air 
     burn pits, including utilizing information gathered through 
     the VA's Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry.
       Adjusted Rulemaking Process.--The Department is directed to 
     provide a report to the Committees on Appropriations no later 
     than 1 year after enactment of this Act on the timeline under 
     which the Department plans to use the new rulemaking process 
     to undertake a review of evidence related to toxic exposures 
     of veterans who served at Ft. McClellan, Alabama.
       Million Veterans Program.--The agreement encourages the 
     Million Veterans Program to support research utilizing 
     emissions data that was collected and catalogued for the 
     Department of Defense during Overseas Contingency Operations/
     Global War on Terror to help in identifying the potential 
     long-term health consequences of exposure to burn pit 
     emissions and environmental pollutants for servicemembers.
       Burn Pits Data Tracking and Reporting.--To improve data on 
     veteran exposure to burn pits and potential health effects, 
     the Committees reiterate the direction provided in House 
     Report 117-391 on burn pit data tracking and reporting.

                    Veterans Benefits Administration


                       COMPENSATION AND PENSIONS

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The agreement provides $146,778,136,000 for Compensation 
     and Pensions in advance for fiscal year 2024. Of the amount 
     provided, not more than $21,423,000 is to be transferred to 
     General Operating Expenses, Veterans Benefits Administration 
     (VBA) and Information Technology Systems for reimbursement of 
     necessary expenses in implementing provisions of title 38.
       Military Sexual Trauma (MST) Disability Claims 
     Processing.--Within 180 days of enactment of this Act, the 
     agreement directs the Department to submit a report to the 
     Committees on corrective actions taken to improve the 
     accuracy of processing MST-related disability claims, 
     including those taken to address the VA Office of Inspector 
     General's findings and recommendations from the VA Office of 
     Inspector General's Report #20-00041-163. In addition, the 
     report should provide an update on the implementation of 
     sections 5501 and 5502 of Public Law 116-315, including what 
     percentage of claims are being reviewed by specialized teams, 
     any barriers VBA faces in allowing veteran MST survivors to 
     choose the sex of their medical examiner, and any proposed 
     changes for ensuring veterans' choices can be met.


                         READJUSTMENT BENEFITS

       The agreement provides $8,452,500,000 for Readjustment 
     Benefits in advance for fiscal year 2024.
       Veteran Employment Through Technology Education Courses.--
     The agreement expects the Department to fully fund the 
     program consistent with current law, and encourages VA to 
     take steps to expand the program to address increased demand, 
     by including adding additional providers, particularly in 
     areas of the country where the initiative is not currently 
     available, as well as to help train and employ veterans with 
     disabilities, including through programs that support blind 
     veterans in high-technology career fields, such as 
     cybersecurity.
       Post-9/11 GI Bill.--The agreement directs the Department to 
     submit a report to the Committees within 60 days of enactment 
     of this Act on the potential costs associated with 
     eliminating the 15-year delimitation date for using Post-9/11 
     GI Bill benefits. The report should also include the number 
     of veterans that lost access to Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits in 
     the past 3 years and projections on the number of veterans 
     that will lose access in the next 3 years.


                   VETERANS INSURANCE AND INDEMNITIES

       The agreement provides $121,126,000 for Veterans Insurance 
     and Indemnities in advance for fiscal year 2024.


                 VETERANS HOUSING BENEFIT PROGRAM FUND

       The agreement provides such sums as may be necessary for 
     costs associated with direct and guaranteed loans for the 
     Veterans Housing Benefit Program Fund. The agreement limits 
     obligations for direct loans to not more than $500,000 and 
     provides $282,361,131 to be available for administrative 
     expenses.
       VA Home Loans.--The agreement directs VA to take steps to 
     complete all outstanding VA home loans, including those 
     outside the contiguous United States, within 90 days of 
     enactment of this Act and to maintain policies, funding, and 
     staffing levels that ensure appraisals are completed within 
     VA's established timeliness standards.
       Veterans Housing Rehabilitation and Modification Pilot 
     Program.--The agreement encourages VA to coordinate with the 
     Department of Housing and Urban Development to

[[Page S9229]]

     develop an outreach plan to increase awareness about this 
     program among veterans, Veterans Service Organizations, and 
     other eligible entities.


            VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION LOANS PROGRAM ACCOUNT

       The agreement provides $7,171 for the cost of direct loans 
     from the Vocational Rehabilitation Loans Program Account, 
     plus $445,698 to be paid to the appropriation for General 
     Operating Expenses, Veterans Benefits Administration. The 
     agreement provides for a direct loan limitation of $942,330.


          NATIVE AMERICAN VETERAN HOUSING LOAN PROGRAM ACCOUNT

       The agreement provides $1,400,000 for administrative 
     expenses of the Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program 
     Account.


      GENERAL OPERATING EXPENSES, VETERANS BENEFITS ADMINISTRATION

       The agreement provides $3,863,000,000 for General Operating 
     Expenses, Veterans Benefits Administration and, of the amount 
     provided, up to 10 percent is available for obligation until 
     September 30, 2024.
       Equitable Relief.--As described in House Report 117-391, 
     the Secretary is directed to continue to grant or extend 
     equitable relief to eligible veterans initially deemed 
     eligible in instances of administrative error, and the 
     agreement requires the report to be submitted to the 
     Committees no later than April 1, 2023.
       Transition Assistance Grant Program.--The agreement funds 
     the program consistent with the request for the initial 
     implementation of the transition assistance grant program 
     established by Section 4304 of the Johnny Isakson and David 
     P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement 
     Act of 2020 (P.L. 116-315) and reiterates the direction 
     provided in House Report 117-391.
       Contract Providers for Exams.--The agreement urges VA to 
     ensure that compensation and pension exams are available at 
     VA facilities with the capability to conduct them in a safe 
     and thorough manner.
       National Training Curriculum.--The agreement encourages the 
     Department to improve disability claims processing training 
     related to post-traumatic stress disorder to help ensure 
     benefits are being correctly determined.
       GI Bill Apprenticeships and On-the-Job-Training.--The 
     agreement directs VA to take additional actions to promote 
     awareness and increased utilization of apprenticeships and 
     on-the-job training (OJT) programs, including continued 
     coordination and support to State Approving Agencies (SAAs) 
     and programs that may incentivize increased participation by 
     employers. The agreement recommends additional support and 
     resources be provided to SAAs for the purpose of increasing 
     awareness and utilization of apprenticeships and OJT. The 
     Department is encouraged to explore options to expand the 
     program, while ensuring proper oversight of SAA contracts.
       Support to County, Tribal and Equivalent Governmental 
     Veterans Service Officers.--The agreement directs the 
     Department, no later than 90 days after the date of enactment 
     of this Act, to submit a report to the Committees on how to 
     improve its support of county, Tribal and equivalent 
     governmental Veterans Service Officers. The report shall 
     assess the feasibility and current technical limitations of 
     providing governmental Veterans Service Officers enhanced 
     access to certain Department systems to better serve veterans 
     and any other recommendations to improve how the Department 
     monitors, coordinates with, or provides support to Veterans 
     Service Officers to include but not limited to training or 
     financial support for local governmental operations.
       Evaluation of the Impact of the National Work Queue.--The 
     agreement directs the Department to provide a report to the 
     Committees within 90 days of enactment of this Act on the 
     National Work Queue, to address specifically (1) how it plans 
     to restore procedures to provide specialized assistance to 
     and coordination with veterans' accredited representatives; 
     and (2) how it plans to evaluate VA employees fairly for 
     their own work product.
       Evaluation of VBA Information Technology Systems.--The 
     agreement directs the Department to provide a report to the 
     Committees within 90 days of enactment of this Act on how it 
     plans to receive feedback, including from veterans' 
     accredited representatives, on potential front-end 
     improvements to VBA Information Technology systems (e.g., 
     Veterans Benefits Management System) that may enhance veteran 
     awareness and coordination for the timeliness and accuracy of 
     claims.
       Modernize the Veterans Benefits Management System.--The 
     agreement directs the Department to complete an assessment of 
     the Veterans Benefits Management System, and develop a plan 
     to modernize the system as appropriate. The Department is 
     directed to submit a report to the Committees no later than 
     180 days after enactment of this Act detailing the findings 
     of this assessment and the Department's plan to update the 
     system.
       Ready for Decision Status.--The agreement directs the 
     Department, no later than 90 days after enactment of this 
     Act, to provide a report to the Committees on: (1) the number 
     of claims that reached Ready for Decision (RFD) status by 
     month since January 2021; (2) the average time in RFD status, 
     broken down by month and by the regional office responsible 
     for the determination; (3) any impact that COVID-19 remote 
     work status had on processing time; and (4) any impact from 
     delays vendors contracted by the Government Publishing Office 
     experienced in printing and mailing notification letters to 
     veterans and claimants in calendar year 2021.

                     Veterans Health Administration


                           Items of Interest

       Develop Accurate and More Robust Quality Comparisons 
     between VA and the Community.--The Department is directed to 
     report to the Committees no later than 90 days after 
     enactment of this Act on steps it will take to provide more 
     robust and accurate quality and timeliness comparisons 
     between VA and Veterans Community Care providers so eligible 
     veterans can make better informed decisions on where to 
     receive care.
       Improved Transparency of, Access to, and Usability of 
     Data.--The agreement directs the Department, not later than 
     180 days after enactment of this Act, to complete a review of 
     publicly available data on the Department's Access to Care 
     website, and conduct an analysis of the access to and 
     usability of the data, including: (1) any numeric indicators 
     relating to timely care, effective care, safety, and veteran-
     centered care; (2) patient wait times information; and (3) 
     patient safety, quality of care, and outcome measures. The 
     Department should consult with veterans, Veterans Service 
     Organizations, and caregivers of veterans from geographically 
     diverse areas and representing different eras of service in 
     the Armed Forces. The agreement directs the Department to 
     submit to the Committees, no later than 30 days after 
     completing the review, a report on the outcome of the review, 
     including any recommendations to modify the presentation of 
     data.
       Cost of Care for National Guard and Reserve Components.--
     The agreement directs the Department to submit a report to 
     the Committees within 180 days of enactment of this Act on 
     the total cost of extending VA medical care eligibility to 
     all non-federally activated members of the National Guard and 
     Reserve components of the Armed Services.
       Securing Medical Devices.--The agreement encourages the 
     Department to ensure the security of all networked medical 
     devices and to implement security and remediation best 
     practices to address potential medical device cyberattack 
     risks.


                            MEDICAL SERVICES

       The agreement provides $74,004,000,000 in advance for 
     fiscal year 2024 for Medical Services, with $2,000,000,000 
     available through fiscal year 2025. The agreement provides an 
     additional $261,000,000 above the fiscal year 2023 advance 
     appropriation for the Medical Services account. The agreement 
     maintains bill language requiring the Secretary to ensure 
     that sufficient amounts are available for the acquisition of 
     prosthetics designed specifically for female veterans.

                  Mental Health and Suicide Prevention

       The agreement provides $13,920,415,000 in discretionary 
     funds for mental health programs, of which $498,098,000 is 
     for suicide prevention outreach. In addition to the 
     directives in House Report 117-391, the agreement urges the 
     Department to focus on preventing suicides on VA properties.
       Veterans Crisis Line and 988 Implementation.--The agreement 
     provides funding at the level requested for the Veterans 
     Crisis Line (VCL). In addition to the instruction included in 
     House Report 117-391, the agreement directs the Department to 
     ensure VCL has geolocation capabilities to ensure accurate 
     emergency dispatch to persons at risk of imminent harm to 
     self or others. In lieu of the direction in House Report 117-
     391, the agreement supports an increase in staffing levels of 
     Suicide Prevention Coordinators, including to ensure 
     sufficient response to calls to the crisis line. In addition, 
     the agreement continues the quarterly reporting requirement 
     in House Report 117-391 regarding the volume of calls 
     received by the crisis line and other metrics to measure and 
     ensure adequate staff response.
       DOD to VA Mental Health Transition Improvements.--The 
     agreement directs the Veterans Affairs Collaboration Office 
     to provide a report to the Committees on progress in 
     implementing the Joint Action Plan created in response to 
     Executive Order 13822 no later than 30 days after enactment 
     of this Act.
       National Center for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.--The 
     agreement provides $42,000,000 for the National Center for 
     PTSD and encourages the Center to explore collaborations and 
     investigational trials to test and develop new methods to 
     treat PTSD. The agreement directs the Department to provide 
     the report requested in House Report 117-391 to the 
     Committees no later than 90 days after enactment of this Act.
       Virtual Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.--In response to the 
     directive in House Report 117-391, the Department should 
     explicitly address efforts to better deliver mental health 
     services virtually in areas struggling with broadband 
     operability, including efforts to partner with commercially 
     available platforms with VA-accredited clinicians.
       Suicide Prevention Technology.--The Committees strongly 
     encourage VA to allocate resources to support integrated, 
     real-time data, interactive push notifications, data 
     visualization tools and VA Suicide Prevention performance 
     measure analytics. The report requested in House Report 117-
     391 should be provided to the Committees within 90 days of 
     the enactment of this Act.
       Suicide Prevention.--The agreement encourages the 
     Department to provide complete continuity of outpatient, 
     residential, and inpatient mental health services to 
     proactively screen for suicide risk.

[[Page S9230]]

  


                    Preventing Veteran Homelessness

       The agreement supports $2,695,392,000 for programs to 
     prevent veteran homelessness, including up to $750,167,000 
     for Supportive Services for Veterans Families (SSVF), 
     $557,921,000 for the Department of Housing and Urban 
     Development-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH), 
     $276,368,000 for Grant and Per Diem (GPD) programs, and 
     $81,394,000 for Veterans Justice Outreach program and Legal 
     Services for Veterans grants.
       SSVF.--The agreement directs the Department to fill open 
     vacancies, using all available recruitment and retention 
     resources, and to submit an annual report on the status on 
     filling any and all vacancies. In addition, the agreement 
     directs the Department to report to the Committees not later 
     than 1 year after enactment of this Act on the effectiveness 
     of using contracted caseworkers in comparison to Department 
     caseworkers, and on how effectively veterans are being 
     assisted through SSVF.
       HUD-VASH.--The agreement supports the expansion of 
     caseworkers hired in order to reach the Department's goal of 
     90 percent of caseworker positions filled, and encourages the 
     Department to continue to expand the program to reach as many 
     veterans as possible.
       Moreover, the agreement directs VA to coordinate with HUD 
     to establish pathways that would allow for temporary, 
     transitional case management in areas that Public Housing 
     Authorities have vouchers that are available, allocated and 
     accompanied with VA case management resources, but 
     underutilized due to a lack of VA referrals. The Department 
     is expected to finalize its guidance regarding approval of a 
     Public Housing Authority to be a designated service provider 
     no later than March 31, 2023.
       Homeless Providers GPD Program.--The agreement directs the 
     Department to make funding available for GPD beds based on a 
     collaborative process with local housing partners, the local 
     VA Medical Centers and the Continuums of Care.
       Healthcare for Homeless Veterans Program.--In addition to 
     the direction in House Report 117-391, the agreement urges 
     the Department to expand outreach regarding housing, 
     healthcare, and mental healthcare resources.
       Utilization of Long-Term Care Services by Organizations 
     Serving Homeless and At-Risk Veterans through VA.--The 
     agreement directs the Department to assess the utilization of 
     long-term care services by veterans known to be experiencing 
     homelessness, at-risk of homelessness within the next 90 
     days, and having experienced homelessness in the last 90 
     days. This assessment and should be broken down by each 
     veteran's demographic data, geographical location of services 
     rendered, and the program(s) the veteran utilized within the 
     Office of Geriatric and Extended Care (GEC) and the Homeless 
     Programs Office (HPO); and include a strategic plan to better 
     coordinate access to GEC and HPO services. Within 1 year of 
     enactment of this Act, the Department is directed to submit 
     to the Committees a report on the findings and strategic 
     plan.
       Non-Traditional Housing.--The agreement strongly encourages 
     the Department to continue its efforts to find suitable 
     housing for veterans and their families, including non-
     traditional efforts, such as ``Micro'' or ``Tiny Homes'' or 
     renovated shipping containers. In lieu of the direction in 
     House Report 117-391, the agreement directs the Department to 
     report to the Committees within 90 days of enactment of this 
     Act on the feasibility, including cost estimates, of 
     establishing a grant program to build villages of tiny homes 
     for homeless veterans.

               VHA Staffing and Clinical Workforce Issues

       Annual Staffing Report.--The Committees appreciate the 
     Department's efforts to provide useful information regarding 
     its staffing challenges.The Committees remind the Veterans 
     Health Administration of the directive included in the Joint 
     Explanatory Statement accompanying Public Law 117-103 to 
     provide no later than January 31 of each calendar year, 
     beginning in January 2023, a comprehensive report on 
     workforce and staffing issues.
       VA Medical Center Staffing.--In addition to utilizing new 
     authorities provided by Congress, the agreement encourages 
     the Department to explore ways to introduce new technologies 
     to reduce staff workloads and improve patients' access to 
     timely care.

                              Rural Health

       Office of Rural Health.--The agreement provides 
     $337,455,000 for the Office of Rural Health and the Rural 
     Health Initiative, which is $10,000,000 above the fiscal year 
     2022 enacted level.
       Rural Transportation Challenges.--The agreement directs the 
     Office of Rural Health to expand and improve transportation 
     access for veterans to and from facilities, and to allocate 
     sufficient funding to enhance rural access and transportation 
     services, including up to $10,000,000 for the Highly Rural 
     Transportation Grants Program. The agreement directs the 
     Department to report the findings and recommendations of its 
     ongoing studies on the use of accessible, autonomous and 
     electric vehicles, which could be particularly helpful in 
     rural areas, and as directed in House Report 117-391, to 
     submit a plan for future analysis of this technology. In 
     addition, the agreement directs the Office of Rural Health to 
     expeditiously conclude the rural transportation study by the 
     Veterans Rural Health Resource Center and report the findings 
     to the Committees to assess gaps in the Department's 
     comprehensive rural transportation program.
       Rural Health Eligibility.--The agreement directs the 
     Department to submit a report to the Committees no later than 
     180 days after enactment of this Act that analyzes the impact 
     on access to VA healthcare if the VA income eligibility 
     threshold for Priority Group 7 is increased to the highest 
     income eligibility threshold in each State. The report should 
     analyze the impact on veteran health if eligibility for 
     dental care is expanded to include all VHA eligible veterans.
       Veterans Affairs Health Navigator Platform.--The agreement 
     encourages the Department to investigate the benefits of 
     utilizing Health Management Platforms and a health navigator 
     system, focused on improving patient access and beneficiary 
     experiences for veterans in rural and/or low population 
     density areas, similar to an ongoing DOD pilot.

                     Telehealth and Connected Care

       The agreement provides $5,174,818,000 to sustain and 
     increase telehealth capacity, including in rural, highly 
     rural, and underserved communities.
       VA-Academic Telehealth Partnerships.--The agreement 
     encourages the Department to support telehealth partnerships 
     with academic institutions, including in communities in non-
     contiguous areas without university teaching hospitals, and 
     including Maternal Fetal Medicine services.

                     Gender-Specific Care for Women

       The agreement includes $840,446,000 to support gender-
     specific care for women, as well as funding for the program 
     office and initiatives. The Department is directed to provide 
     a spend plan detailing how this funding will be allocated and 
     describing all planned activities related to care for women 
     veterans to the Committees no later than 90 days after 
     enactment of this Act. In addition, the Department is 
     directed to provide quarterly briefings to the Committees on 
     the expenditure of the funds. The Department is further 
     directed to continue upgrading medical facilities to meet the 
     needs of women veterans and is reminded of the annual 
     reporting requirement included in the Joint Explanatory 
     Statement accompanying Public Law 116-94 related to women's 
     healthcare facilities.

                           Caregivers Support

       The agreement includes $1,866,210,000 for VA's Caregivers 
     Program, and continues the requirement for quarterly 
     reporting on obligations.
       Caregivers Support.--The agreement encourages the Secretary 
     to permit recently disqualified and denied applicants with a 
     history in the program to have their applications 
     automatically reconsidered under the current requirements, 
     rather than go through the appeals process, or consider 
     creating an expedited review for Program of Comprehensive 
     Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC) appeals to ensure 
     timely decisions. The agreement urges the Department to 
     proceed expeditiously in revising and reissuing regulations 
     to bring the program fully in line with statute and 
     Congressional intent, and to work collaboratively with the 
     Committees in this process.
       PCAFC Legacy Caregivers Employment Assistance.--The 
     agreement directs the Department to submit a report to the 
     Committees no later than 60 days after enactment of this Act 
     detailing what steps have been or could be taken to assist 
     legacy PCAFC caregivers with job-hunting skills and 
     employment placement.

       Opioid Safety Initiatives and Substance Use Disorder Care

       To continue to build upon opioid reduction efforts and 
     safety initiatives, the agreement includes $662,805,000 for 
     opioid prevention and treatment programs at VA, including 
     $245,754,000 to continue implementation of the Jason 
     Simcakoski Memorial and Promise Act as part of the 
     Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act of 2016 (P.L. 114-
     198).
       The agreement also includes $183,287,000 for Substance Use 
     Disorder (SUD) efforts to ensure a greater number of veterans 
     can receive SUD specialty services. The Committees are 
     concerned with challenges veterans face in accessing 
     treatment, including wait times for inpatient admission, and 
     direct the Department to continue to increase investment in 
     this program to reduce delays and ensure adequate bed 
     availability and staffing.

                              Whole Health

       The agreement provides $85,851,000 for Whole Health, which 
     is $10,000,000 above the request, to continue to implement 
     and expand the Whole Health initiative to all VA facilities. 
     Within the total, the agreement includes $5,000,000 for 
     creative arts therapies, as described in House Report 117-391 
     and consistent with the budget request.

                             Long-Term Care

       The agreement provides $12,085,353,000 as requested by the 
     Department for long-term care, including $4,052,596,000 for 
     non-institutional care. VA is encouraged to continue 
     cooperating with community, State, and Federal partners to 
     expand these programs.
       Rural Access to Home and Community-Based Services.--The 
     agreement directs the Department, within 1 year of enactment 
     of this Act, to report to the Committees on the availability 
     of and access to home- and community-based services (HCBS) 
     for rural veterans. The report should include an analysis of 
     rural veterans' access to HCBS, including programs or care 
     provided directly by VA, as well as HCBS paid for by VA; any 
     disparities

[[Page S9231]]

     in rural veterans' access to each type of HCBS, as compared 
     to their urban veteran counterparts; and, if available, 
     considerations in access to care for rural veterans who live 
     on Tribal lands, are women veterans, or are disabled 
     veterans.
       Veteran-Directed Care.--The agreement encourages expansion 
     of the Veteran-Directed Care Program.
       Domiciliary Care Claims for Veterans with Early-Stage 
     Dementia.--The agreement directs the Secretary to 
     expeditiously implement section 3007 of Public Law 116-315, 
     and delegate the waiver authority to Veterans Integrated 
     Service Networks and local VA hospital systems so that newly 
     eligible veterans may begin to receive this crucial support.

                          Other Health Issues

       Neurology Centers of Excellence.--In lieu of the direction 
     in House Report 117-391, the agreement directs the Department 
     to provide a report to the Committees within 90 days of 
     enactment of this Act on the feasibility, advisability, and 
     costs of expanding the Neurology Centers of Excellence 
     (including but not limited to epilepsy, headache, multiple 
     sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease) to enhance their ability 
     to serve veterans. The report should include funding provided 
     for each category of Center of Excellence for the past five 
     years (including the budget year) and proposed in fiscal year 
     2024; and estimated costs to support additional sites, 
     increased staff at sites, or other activities associated with 
     expansion. The agreement supports an additional $5,000,000 to 
     begin expansion of the Headache Centers of Excellence, as 
     described in the report submitted by the Department in 
     response to the Joint Explanatory Statement accompanying the 
     Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2022 (P.L. 117-103); and up 
     to $4,000,000 to support an expansion of Parkinson's Disease 
     Research, Education and Clinical Centers and associated 
     Parkinson's Disease Consortiums and multiple sclerosis 
     centers, pending the Committees' review of the 
     recommendations in the requested report.
       Pressure Injuries.--A report on the timeline to update the 
     directive required in House Report 117-391 on the 
     Standardized Pressure Injury Prevention Protocol Checklist is 
     requested within 90 days of enactment of this Act.
       Molecular Diagnostics for All Cancers.--The Committees 
     believe that every veteran with cancer deserves the highest 
     quality and most medically advanced diagnosis and treatment 
     available, and the Committees commend the Department's 
     Precision Oncology Program. The agreement supports the budget 
     request to expand precision oncology clinical services, 
     including molecular diagnostics, and includes up to 
     $10,000,000 to accelerate the adoption of molecular 
     diagnostics for numerous cancers. Additionally, the 
     Committees remind the Department of the reporting requirement 
     in House Report 117-391.
       Adaptive Sports.--The agreement includes $27,229,000 for 
     National Veterans Sports Programs, including $16,000,000 for 
     adaptive sports programs, and no less than $1,500,000 for 
     equine therapy.
       Medication Optimization for Veterans.--The agreement 
     provides $15,610,000, as requested, for the National 
     Pharmacogenomics Program.
       Intimate Partner Violence Program.--The Committees support 
     the VA Intimate Partner Violence Program (IPV), which has 
     made important progress in implementing programs to combat 
     domestic violence, and direct the Department to fully 
     resource the IPV Program and to continue to include it as a 
     program of interest with budget detail in the justifications 
     accompanying the fiscal year 2024 budget submissions.
       Support for Vet Centers.--The agreement supports the 
     request for Vet Centers and urges the Department to increase 
     access to Vet Centers, including ensuring adequate staffing 
     and evaluating whether additional centers may be needed. In 
     addition to the direction in House Report 117-391, the 
     agreement directs the Department to submit a report to the 
     Committees no later than 90 days of enactment of this Act on 
     its progress on implementing the recommendations in the 
     report ``VA Vet Centers: Evaluations Needed of Expectations 
     for Counselor Productivity and Centers' Staffing'' (GAO--20--
     652).
       Pilot Programs for Agritherapy.--The agreement provides 
     $5,000,000 to continue a pilot program to train veterans in 
     agricultural vocations, while also tending to behavioral and 
     mental health needs with behavioral healthcare services and 
     treatments by licensed providers.
       Pain Management Treatments.--The Committees note 
     alternative treatments for pain management have been shown to 
     be effective in reducing pain and reliance on prescription 
     opioids, and continue to encourage VA to expand the use of 
     alternative treatments to pain management in its delivery of 
     healthcare services, as well as integrate treatments such as 
     acupuncture into VA medical centers and clinics through 
     licensed professionals or on a contract basis. Additionally, 
     given the potential of osteopathic manipulative treatment 
     (OMT) to treat back and other pain, the Department is 
     directed to track utilization of OMT among veterans seeking 
     care and provide a report to the Committees within 120 days 
     of enactment of this Act on the use of OMT. The Department is 
     further urged to develop a mechanism to track outcomes of 
     this treatment.
       Bioelectronic Medicine for Veterans.--The Committees note 
     the potential offered by Bioelectronic Medicine combined with 
     machine learning and artificial intelligence and encourage 
     the Department to ensure these technologies are available to 
     veterans. In lieu of the funding in House Report 117-391, the 
     agreement directs VA to report to the Committees within 60 
     days of enactment of this Act on how it plans to expand 
     access to these technologies and support initiatives that 
     encourage innovation.
       Home Improvements and Structural Alterations.--The 
     agreement directs the Department to provide a report to the 
     Committees no later than 90 days of enactment of this Act on 
     whether the Home Improvements and Structural Alterations 
     benefit is sufficient to cover the costs of medically 
     necessary improvements and structural alterations, taking 
     into account housing costs in defined geographic regions, and 
     recommendations to improve the program to meet the need.
       Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Compliance.--The 
     agreement directs the Department to promptly provide the 
     required report under Section 70913 of the Infrastructure 
     Investment and Jobs Act (P.L. 117-58) and apply the required 
     preference to infrastructure projects funded by this Act.
       Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer Treatment.--The agreement directs 
     the Department to analyze what barriers exist for veterans 
     seeking image-guided superficial radiotherapy across 
     different types of practices, including but not limited to 
     certified medical establishments and private dermatology 
     practices, and what action can be taken to remove any 
     identified obstacles. The Department is directed to submit a 
     report on the analysis to the Committees no later than 90 
     days after the enactment of this Act.
       Integration of Veteran and Tribal Partners in Applicable 
     Areas.--The agreement directs the Secretary of Veterans 
     Affairs to appoint a single point of contact to coordinate 
     Federal Tribal and veteran healthcare in areas where it may 
     be difficult for a veteran to find proper representation of 
     care due to limited presence of VA facilities.
       Solid Tumor Diagnostic Assay.--The agreement directs the 
     Department to provide an update on cancer diagnostics 
     proteomics research no later than 180 days after enactment of 
     this Act to the Committees.
       Rehabilitation and Disability Prevention.--The agreement 
     encourages the Department to develop, evaluate, implement, 
     and disseminate new strategies for rehabilitation and for 
     disability prevention, including strategies for emotional 
     well-being.
       Dental Services.--The agreement supports efforts to expand 
     VA dental services to the broadest extent of current 
     authority.
       Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy.--The agreement encourages the 
     Department to continue to research the efficacy of hyperbaric 
     oxygen therapy (HBOT) as a treatment for PTSD and traumatic 
     brain injury, and permit case-by-case referrals for HBOT in 
     the community.
       Medical Cannabis.--The agreement acknowledges the 
     Department is in the process of updating VHA Directive 1315, 
     Access to VHA Clinical Programs for Veterans Participating in 
     State-Approved Marijuana Programs, and encourages the 
     Department to not interfere with a veteran's decision to 
     participate in such programs and document it appropriately, 
     to the extent allowable under Federal law.
       Mobile Health Clinics.--The agreement supports robust 
     funding and encourages VA to expand their mobile clinics in 
     order to serve more veterans.
       Medical Device Efficiencies.--The Committees note the 
     importance of reducing emissions and waste at medical 
     facilities, as well as improving supply chain resilience. The 
     Department is encouraged to explore potential options and 
     approaches to achieve these goals, including FDA-regulated, 
     commercial reprocessing of single-use medical devices, as 
     appropriate. Within 180 days of enactment of this Act, the 
     Department is directed to submit a report to the Committees 
     that provides an assessment of VA's medical device 
     reprocessing efforts, including benefits, potential cost 
     savings to VA medical facilities, estimates of reduced waste, 
     and impacts on health outcomes.
       Air Ambulance Services.--The Committees urge the Department 
     to ensure that any changes to the reimbursement policy for 
     air ambulances do not reduce the availability of emergency 
     services to veterans or increase mortality and morbidity 
     among veterans needing air ambulance care, which is 
     particularly important in rural areas. The Committees further 
     note that Public Law 116-260 required the Department of 
     Health and Human Services (HHS) to review updated cost data 
     on air ambulance services, and encourage VA to coordinate 
     with HHS to ensure that its data is accurate and up to date 
     before finalizing any payment policy changes.
       Pharmaceutical On-dose Tracking and Tracing Technologies.--
     The agreement directs that the report directed in House 
     Report 117-391 should also outline the Department's 
     implementation and deployment strategies for on-dose tracking 
     of pharmaceutical products within the VA.
       Domestic Procurement of Medical Isotopes.--The agreement 
     directs the Department to submit to the Committees a report 
     within 90 days of enactment of this Act on the availability 
     of domestic sources of sustainable medical radioisotopes 
     available for procurement and the feasibility of increasing 
     the portion of procured technetium-99m patient doses produced 
     from domestically manufactured molybdenum-99.
       Oral Contraceptives.--In lieu of the direction in House 
     Report 117-391, the Committees

[[Page S9232]]

     note the potential advantages for patients in receiving a 
     full year's supply at once of oral contraceptive pills that 
     are for regular use and urge the Department to improve 
     awareness of the option to receive a full year's supply of 
     such pills, when medically appropriate. The Committees 
     request a report within 30 days of enactment of this Act on 
     the findings of VA's evaluation of its demonstration project.
       Assisted Reproductive Services.--The agreement does not 
     include the proposal in the fiscal year 2023 budget request 
     to revise the access policy for assisted reproductive 
     services.
       Fertility Treatment Data.--In lieu of the reporting 
     requirements and directives under the heading ``Fertility 
     Treatment Data'' in House Report 117-391, the Department is 
     reminded of the annual reporting requirement included in the 
     Joint Explanatory Statement that accompanied Public Law 117-
     103.
       Adoption Reimbursement and Assisted Reproductive 
     Services.--In lieu of the funding in House Report 117-391, 
     the agreement urges the Department to increase its efforts to 
     ensure veterans are informed about their benefits.


                         MEDICAL COMMUNITY CARE

       The agreement provides $33,000,000,000 in advance funding 
     for fiscal year 2024 for Medical Community Care, with 
     $2,000,000,000 available until September 30, 2025. The 
     agreement provides an additional $4,300,000,000 above the 
     fiscal year 2023 advance appropriation for the Medical 
     Community Care account.
       MISSION Act Reporting.--The agreement directs the 
     Department to continue to provide to the Committees quarterly 
     reports on the expenditures related to the MISSION Act for 
     the prior fiscal year and the current fiscal year, and 
     estimates for expenditures related to the MISSION Act for the 
     next five fiscal years. These reports should include costs 
     broken out by account, with categories for costs of MISSION 
     Act-affected community care, caregiver expansion, urgent 
     care, and other efforts. These reports should also include: 
     (1) the number of veterans served by each authority for care 
     outlined in section 1703(d) of title 38, United States Code 
     (i.e., the Department does not offer the care, the Department 
     does not operate a full-service medical facility in the State 
     in which the covered veteran resides, etc.); (2) the cost of 
     such care broken out by the authorities in section 1703(d); 
     and (3) the timeliness of care, on average.
       In addition, the agreement directs the Department to submit 
     monthly reports to the Committees identifying available 
     resources, obligations, authorizations, and anticipated 
     funding needs for the remainder of the fiscal year. This 
     should include detail on the timing of authorization of care 
     and the obligation of funds. The report should also provide 
     data broken out by VISN on the number of referrals and 
     completed appointments in-house and in the community, 
     including timeliness.
       Rural Health Continuity of Care.--The agreement continues 
     to encourage VA to sustain continuity of care for rural 
     veterans in line with the direction included in Senate Report 
     117-35.
       Dialysis Services.--The agreement expects that VA will 
     ensure that care is not disrupted or diminished for the 
     veterans who receive treatment under the Nationwide Dialysis 
     Services contracts. The agreement directs the Department to 
     include as part of the feasibility report requested in Senate 
     Report 117-35 a pay-for-performance value-based dialysis 
     payment model under which dialysis providers are accountable 
     for outcomes and are paid based on improved care metrics. 
     Metrics that are highly correlated with improved veteran 
     outcomes and lower total cost of care, as well as health 
     equity should be considered.
       Community Care Payment Rates.--In addition to the 
     information requested in House Report 117-391, the report on 
     community care providers in rural areas should also address 
     the effect of Medicare Physician Fee Schedule payment rates 
     for certain mental healthcare providers on participation in 
     the Veterans Community Care Program (VCCP). Specifically, the 
     report should examine any effect lower payment rates have on: 
     (1) provider recruitment and retention in the VCCP network, 
     and (2) veterans' ability to access mental healthcare in the 
     community. The report should also include the Department's 
     view on whether the payment structure established under 
     Public Law 115-182, the VA MISSION Act of 2018, limits 
     reimbursement rates for non-physician community mental health 
     providers to the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule.
       State Veterans Homes Per Diem.--The agreement directs the 
     Department to examine the contracts entered into with each 
     State home for nursing home care to determine if adequate 
     compensation is provided for the cost of furnishing care in 
     that location, including in States outside of the contiguous 
     United States, and that no undue burden is placed on the 
     States to provide care to veterans. A report of the findings 
     should be provided to the Committees within 90 days of the 
     enactment of this Act.
       State Veterans Homes.--The agreement directs the Secretary 
     to report to the Committees within 120 days of enactment of 
     this Act on actions that the Department or Congress can take 
     to expand support for State veterans homes, particularly 
     those in rural areas at risk of closure due to financial 
     challenges, such as increasing per diem reimbursement rates, 
     expanding eligibility for care, altering the required veteran 
     occupancy rate, or expanding hiring and retention 
     authorities. The report should include a budgetary impact 
     analysis of the options and an explanation of any additional 
     authorities necessary.
       Veterans Access to Long-Term Care.--In addition to the 
     direction in House Report 117-391 regarding long-term care 
     for veterans with severe traumatic brain injury, the 
     agreement directs the Department to provide to the Committees 
     within 60 days of enactment of this Act an update on its 
     efforts to carry out the direction provided in Senate Report 
     117--35 regarding Veterans Care Agreements. In addition, this 
     report should address if veteran access to long-term care 
     services could be improved if TRICARE's Office of Federal 
     Contract Compliance program exemptions included VA Health 
     Benefits Providers, such as skilled nursing homes.
       Contract Nursing Homes.--The agreement directs the 
     Department to provide a report to the Committees within 120 
     days of enactment of this Act to determine if there has been 
     a decrease in the availability of nursing home care and why. 
     The report should include: (1) the number of contract nursing 
     homes VA uses nationwide, by State, for each of the past 10 
     years; (2) an assessment about whether Medicare payment rates 
     or VA Fee Schedule Rates affect whether non-VA nursing homes 
     are willing to accept veteran patients; and (3) the number of 
     veteran inpatients who remained at VA Medical Centers and VA 
     Healthcare Systems for at least 30 days while awaiting an 
     available treatment bed.
       Caregiver and Nurse Registries.--The agreement directs the 
     Department to provide a report to the Committees no later 
     than 90 days after enactment of this Act on: (1) the 
     rationale that led to the exclusion of licensed caregiver and 
     nurse registries after 2 years of allowing them to 
     participate; (2) the explanation provided to veterans on why 
     they could no longer use the services they had previously 
     relied on; (3) the total number of veterans impacted by this 
     change; and (4) information on efforts undertaken by VA to 
     ensure veterans are not left without caregivers as a result 
     of this change.


                     MEDICAL SUPPORT AND COMPLIANCE

       The agreement provides $12,300,000,000 in advance funding 
     for fiscal year 2024 for Medical Support and Compliance, with 
     $350,000,000 available through fiscal year 2025. The 
     agreement provides an additional $1,400,000,000 above the 
     fiscal year 2023 advance appropriation for the Medical 
     Support and Compliance account.
       Office of Health Informatics.--The agreement directs the 
     Department to evaluate the processes currently in place for 
     coordinating with the Social Security Administration to 
     transmit relevant medical and disability information for 
     veterans with 100 percent service connected, permanent and 
     total disability ratings, for the purpose of expediting 
     Social Security Disability Insurance benefits decisions.


                           MEDICAL FACILITIES

       The agreement provides an additional $1,500,000,000 above 
     the fiscal year 2023 advance appropriation for this account. 
     The agreement provides $8,800,000,000 in advance for fiscal 
     year 2024 for Medical Facilities, of which $500,000,000 is 
     made available through fiscal year 2025.
       The Committees expect VA to provide, no later than 30 days 
     after enactment of this Act, an expenditure plan detailing 
     the planned use of the funds provided, and further, the 
     Committees request a quarterly update of the plan if the 
     funding for any single project changes by more than 
     $3,000,000 during that time period.
       Community-Based Outpatient Clinic in Bakersfield, 
     California.--The Committees remain concerned that a new 
     Bakersfield CBOC remains unbuilt more than a decade after 
     Congress authorized this facility in Public Law 111-82. 
     Recognizing the constraints due to ongoing litigation, the 
     Committees direct the Secretary to expeditiously execute 
     Lease No. 36C10F20L0008 and commence construction of the CBOC 
     as soon as possible. The Committees direct the Secretary to 
     provide monthly reports on the CBOC's progress until 
     completion and activation.
       Prohibition on Smoking.--The agreement supports the 
     Department's efforts to make VA facilities smoke-free and 
     encourages full implementation and enforcement of VHA 
     Directives 1085 and 1085.1.
       Negative Air Pressure Containment Systems.--The agreement 
     directs the Department to report to the Committees within 90 
     days of enactment of this Act on the Department's prior 
     utilization or purchase of commercial-off-the-shelf negative 
     air pressure containment systems in response to the COVID--19 
     pandemic and an analysis of potential requirements necessary 
     to prepare for future pandemics.
       VA Infrastructure Requirements.--The agreement encourages 
     the Department to incorporate the requirement to address 
     aging infrastructure in future budget requests, as 
     appropriate.
       Recurring Expenses Transformational Fund.--The agreement 
     supports the Department's plan to allocate $75,000,000 of the 
     Recurring Expenses Transformational Fund balances to support 
     the deployment, upgrade, or installation of infrastructure or 
     equipment to support goals established in Executive Order 
     14057.


                    MEDICAL AND PROSTHETIC RESEARCH

       The agreement provides $916,000,000 for Medical and 
     Prosthetic Research, available

[[Page S9233]]

     until September 30, 2024. Bill language is included to ensure 
     that the Secretary allocates adequate funding for prosthetic 
     research specifically for female veterans and for toxic 
     exposures.
       Women Veterans Research.--The Committees direct the 
     Department to ensure its research program adequately 
     addresses the unique needs and concerns of women veterans, 
     which can be substantially different than both civilian women 
     and men veterans.
       Animal Research.--The agreement continues bill language to 
     limit research on dogs, cats, and non-human primates, and 
     reiterates that this language requires the implementation of 
     a plan under which the Secretary will eliminate or reduce the 
     research conducted using these species by not later than 5 
     years after the date of enactment of Public Law 116-94. 
     Additionally, the Department is directed to include in any 
     report to Congress describing animal research approved under 
     Sec. 247 of this Act detail on what specific alternatives to 
     animals were considered, why those alternatives were not 
     chosen, and therefore supporting why these animal subjects 
     are the only viable option for this research.
       Access to Clinical Oncology Trials.--The Committees 
     continue to support the ongoing collaborative efforts between 
     VA medical centers and National Cancer Institute (NCI)-
     designated comprehensive cancer centers, but note the lack of 
     infrastructure for clinical trials in other areas of the 
     country. The Committees note the budget request has 
     highlighted expanding access to oncology clinical trials as a 
     priority for fiscal year 2023 and direct that not less than 
     $10,000,000 be allocated to support partnerships between VA 
     medical centers and NCI-designated comprehensive cancer 
     centers, with an emphasis on expanding to new sites outside 
     the current NAVIGATE structure.
       VA Cancer Moonshot.--The agreement directs that skin cancer 
     be included as a priority area, due to the prevalence of 
     various skin cancers among servicemembers.
       Spinal Cord Injuries and Disorders.--The agreement 
     encourages the Department to increase the Clinical Science 
     Research and Development program funding for initiatives 
     conducted across the Spinal Cord Injuries and Disorders (SCI/
     D) System of Care, and prioritize activities to study and 
     assess spinal cord neurostimulation therapies and devices to 
     restore movement and autonomic functions in veterans living 
     with SCI/D.
       Opiate-Free Pain Therapy for Veterans.--The agreement 
     encourages the Department to implement a research project in 
     various VA facilities/VISNs evaluating the efficacy of 
     thermal, shortwave diathermy on patients with chronic pain 
     for non-opioid pain relief.
       Improving the Quality of Life in Tinnitus Management by 
     Veterans.--The agreement encourages the Department to work 
     with academic partners, as appropriate, to address and 
     improve the outcomes for veterans experiencing problematic 
     tinnitus, including research to identify contributing factors 
     associated with tinnitus onset and progression to chronic 
     tinnitus and develop novel interventional therapies and self-
     management tools. VA is encouraged to consider academic 
     institution factors such as proximity to operational military 
     bases, the presence of Nurse Practitioner/Doctor of Nursing 
     Practice/Doctorate programs, and the presence of Osteopathic 
     Medicine and Engineering programs.


                     MEDICAL CARE COLLECTIONS FUND

       The agreement includes the authority for the Medical Care 
     Collections Fund to retain co-payments and third-party 
     collections, estimated to total $3,910,000,000 in fiscal year 
     2023.
       MCCF Third-Party Billing.--The Committees note that 
     procedures to provide for not only correct billing, but also 
     prompt collection must continue to be improved at VA. 
     Therefore, the agreement directs the Department to submit 
     quarterly reports to the Committees on Appropriations 
     identifying the amount of third-party health billings that 
     were owed to VA in the previous quarter, and the amount 
     collected, with an explanation of why amounts were not 
     collected, as directed in House Report 117-391.

                    National Cemetery Administration

       The agreement provides $430,000,000 for the National 
     Cemetery Administration (NCA). Of the amount provided, up to 
     10 percent is available until September 30, 2024.
       Cemetery Access and Unmet Needs.--The Committees remain 
     concerned that NCA is not adequately serving the nation's 
     veterans in certain areas, particularly rural areas and 
     geographically isolated areas. The agreement therefore 
     directs VA to continue to pursue efforts to ensure that a 
     burial option, including those utilizing public-private 
     partnerships, within 75 miles of all veteran homes is 
     available and accessible. Additionally, the Department is 
     directed to report to the Committees within 180 days of 
     enactment of this Act on its progress to review and amend the 
     criteria for establishing new national cemeteries, including 
     changes to allow for the establishment of new national 
     veterans cemeteries in geographically isolated areas and 
     states where state veterans cemeteries do not meet national 
     shrine standards, and how revised criteria will help address 
     the remaining need of unserved veteran populations.
       Western New York Cemetery.--The agreement directs the 
     Department to provide a detailed plan and timeline to the 
     Committees no later than 60 days after the enactment of this 
     Act to fully address and mitigate traffic safety concerns at 
     the intersection of New York State Route 77 and Indian Falls 
     Road (County Route 4) adjacent to the Western New York 
     Cemetery.
       Rural Initiative National Cemetery Grants Program.--The 
     agreement directs the Department to submit a report to the 
     Committees no later than 90 days after enactment of this Act 
     on the feasibility and advisability of establishing a Rural 
     Initiative National Cemetery Grants Program to support State 
     and local entity projects that enhance the operation and 
     maintenance of Rural Initiative National Cemeteries.

                      Departmental Administration


                         GENERAL ADMINISTRATION

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The agreement provides $433,000,000 for General 
     Administration. Of the amount provided, up to 10 percent is 
     available for obligation until September 30, 2024. The 
     agreement continues to include bill language permitting the 
     transfer of funds from this account to General Operating 
     Expenses, Veterans Benefits Administration.
       Financial Management Business Transformation (FMBT).--The 
     agreement provides $20,300,000 for FMBT.
       The agreement provides funding for General Administration 
     in the amounts specified below:

                            ($ in thousands)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                         Office \1\                             Amount
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Office of the Secretary....................................      $17,324
Office of General Counsel..................................      136,347
Office of Management.......................................       78,064
Office of Human Resources & Administration/Operations,           111,394
 Security & Preparedness...................................
Office of Enterprise Integration...........................       36,229
Office of Public and Intergovernmental Affairs.............       15,764
Office of Congressional & Legislative Affairs..............        9,545
Office of Accountability & Whistleblower Protection........       28,333
    Total..................................................      433,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ The Office of Acquisition, Logistics & Construction and the Veterans
  Experience Office are funded solely with reimbursable authority.

       The Secretary may alter these allocations if the Committees 
     have been notified and written approval is provided.
       Data Governance and Analytics.--The agreement directs the 
     Office of Enterprise Integration to further coordinate 
     enterprise-wide efforts of managing VA data as a strategic 
     asset, enhance veterans' insights, and strengthen VA's 
     delivery of services and benefits to veterans, their 
     families, survivors, and caregivers.
       Improving Personal Cybersecurity for Veterans.--The 
     agreement encourages the Department to help improve personal 
     cybersecurity among veterans by increasing digital and media 
     literacy through education and resources, including 
     protection against cyber threats and influence campaigns.
       VA Accessibility Office and VA Accessibility Officer.--The 
     agreement encourages the Department to explore options, such 
     as a VA Accessibility Office led by a Chief Accessibility 
     Officer, to ensure the accessibility needs of disabled 
     veterans and employees are met.
       508 Accessibility.--The agreement directs the Secretary to 
     review VA's 508 accessibility compliance and Information and 
     Communication Technology accessibility, report findings to 
     the Committees within 90 days after enactment of this Act, 
     and continue to report on the progress of 508 accessibility 
     compliance annually for 3 years after enactment. The 
     agreement urges the Department to maintain open lines of 
     communication with VSOs, particularly the Blinded Veterans 
     Association, during the ongoing effort to improve 
     accessibility.
       Pershing Hall in Paris, France.--The Department is directed 
     to submit a report to the Committees within 180 days of 
     enactment of this Act on the current status of and the 
     envisioned future state of Pershing Hall in Paris, France 
     with regard to operations, developments and improvements, as 
     well as any options for disposition under consideration. In 
     developing the report, the Department shall consult with the 
     Secretary of the American Battle Monuments Commission and 
     interested stakeholders, including the American Legion and 
     its Paris Post 1.


                       BOARD OF VETERANS APPEALS

       The agreement provides $285,000,000 for the Board of 
     Veterans Appeals, of which up to 10 percent shall remain 
     available until September 30, 2024.
       Scheduling Backlog.--The agreement directs the Department 
     to submit a report to the Committees within 90 days of 
     enactment of this Act on the length of time it takes to 
     schedule appeals and the Board's planned steps to improve 
     efficiency.
       Appeals Backlog.--The agreement supports the Board's 
     efforts to increase personnel and invest in technology to 
     help keep up with the increase in demand.
       Evaluating Execution of the Appeals Modernization Act.--The 
     agreement directs the Department to provide a report to the 
     Committees within 90 days of enactment of this Act on: (1) 
     its analysis of why more veterans choose to skip a quicker 
     review by VBA; (2) its plan to educate veterans on quicker 
     options available to them under the Appeals Modernization 
     Act; (3) a summary of recurring issues before the Board; and 
     (4) its plan to improve training of VBA employees to reduce 
     the frequency of recurring issues before the Board.
       Recruitment and Retention.--The agreement supports using 
     available tools to improve the recruitment and retention of 
     attorneys, including the reimbursement of Bar Dues, and 
     encourages the Board to use its discretion to lift the cap to 
     reimburse attorneys for their Bar Dues.

[[Page S9234]]

  



                     INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SYSTEMS

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The agreement provides $5,782,000,000 for the Information 
     Technology (IT) Systems account. The agreement includes 
     $1,494,230,000 for staff salaries and expenses, 
     $4,145,678,000 for operation and maintenance of existing 
     programs, and $142,092,000 for program development.
       The agreement makes no more than 3 percent of pay and 
     associated costs funding available until the end of fiscal 
     year 2024, no more than 5 percent of operations and 
     maintenance funding available until the end of fiscal year 
     2024, and all IT systems development funding available until 
     the end of fiscal year 2024.
       The agreement continues to include language permitting 
     funding to be transferred among the three IT subaccounts, 
     subject to approval from the Committees, and allowing funding 
     to be transferred among development projects or to new 
     projects subject to the Committees' approval. Further, the 
     agreement prohibits increasing or decreasing a development 
     project by more than $3,000,000 prior to receiving approval 
     of the Committees or after a period of 30 days has elapsed.
       The agreement directs the Department to improve the type, 
     quality, and organization of information in the IT budget 
     submission starting in the fiscal year 2024 submission. This 
     should include a section detailing every existing funded IT 
     project.
       This table is intended to serve as the approved list of 
     development projects; as noted above, any requested changes 
     exceeding $3,000,000 to a project are subject to 
     reprogramming requirements.

               INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS
                            ($ in thousands)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                          Project                             Agreement
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Health Management Platform.................................       70,736
  Community Care...........................................       37,879
  Telehealth Services......................................       13,657
  Purchased Care...........................................       10,000
  Patient Record System....................................        9,200
Clinical Applications......................................       43,277
  Supply Chain Management..................................       33,223
  Healthcare Administration Systems........................       10,054
Health Research and Development............................        5,209
  Research.................................................        5,209
Benefits Systems...........................................       20,727
  Other Benefits IT Systems................................        8,000
  Veterans Customer Experience.............................        7,222
  Benefits Systems.........................................        5,505
Other IT Systems...........................................        2,143
  Human Resources..........................................        2,143
    Total, IT development..................................      142,092
------------------------------------------------------------------------

                   VETERANS ELECTRONIC HEALTH RECORD

       The agreement provides $1,759,000,000 for Veterans 
     Electronic Health Record for activities related to the 
     development and rollout of VA's Electronic Health Record 
     Modernization (EHRM) initiative, the associated contractual 
     costs, and the salaries and expenses of employees hired under 
     titles 5 and 38, United States Code. The agreement makes 25 
     percent of funds contingent upon the Secretary, within 
     specified deadlines: (1) providing a report detailing the 
     status of outstanding issues impacting the stability and 
     usability of the new electronic health record (EHR) system, 
     including those that contributed to deployment delays, along 
     with a timeline and measurable metrics; (2) certifying and 
     detailing any changes to the full deployment schedule; and 
     (3) certifying the status of outstanding issues impacting the 
     stability and usability of the system, and whether the system 
     is ready and optimized for further deployment at VA sites.
       While the Committees remain supportive of the need to 
     modernize VA's electronic health record system, there 
     continue to be wide-ranging and alarming implementation 
     issues with the new system, including serious usability 
     problems that have led to or contributed to instances of 
     patient harm and reduced employee productivity. The 
     Committees support the Department's decision to pause further 
     deployments to address problems with the new system and 
     improve the operation at existing sites. The Committees are 
     hopeful that the Department will resolve outstanding 
     issues expeditiously and in a manner that will allow the 
     Department to resume rollout of the new system safely and 
     efficiently in Summer 2023, as planned.
       The agreement continues quarterly reporting of obligations, 
     expenditures, and deployment schedule by facility. The 
     Committees expect the Department to continue monthly 
     briefings on program implementation, including updates on 
     progress resolving outstanding issues, and to provide 
     quarterly updates to review timelines, performance 
     milestones, implementation, and change management progress. 
     The agreement continues to direct the Government 
     Accountability Office to conduct quarterly performance 
     reviews of EHRM deployment and to report to the Committees 
     each quarter.
       Cost and Budget Estimates.--The agreement directs the 
     Department to clearly identify all costs related to EHRM 
     implementation, including those that would be incurred in 
     other budget accounts, in meeting the reporting requirements 
     above and in the justifications accompanying the President's 
     budget request. The Department is expected to provide to the 
     Committees an updated Life Cycle Cost Estimate for the 
     program, taking into account the recent estimate provided by 
     the Institute for Defense Analyses. At least annually, the 
     Department is directed to provide a report to the Committees 
     comparing current estimated costs to the revised Life Cycle 
     Cost Estimate.
       Patient Harm and Transparency.--The agreement reiterates 
     the direction provided in House Report 117-391, acknowledges 
     the initial report provided by the Department, and expects to 
     receive the other report directed under this heading in House 
     Report 117-391 within 90 days of enactment of this Act.
       Additional EHRM Oversight.--In addition, the agreement 
     directs the Department to provide a report to the Committees 
     no later than June 1, 2023, detailing steps taken to: (1) 
     revise and enhance the EHR training program; (2) 
     independently validate the efficacy of the super user program 
     and the training for such program; (3) ensure proper 
     medication management and accurate patient data through such 
     record; (4) demonstrate that patient record flags that 
     identify veterans who are at high risk for suicide are 
     properly displayed in such record; and (5) implement a policy 
     for regular updates to affected employees about progress on 
     and estimated completion dates for issues arising from 
     trouble tickets.
       For each site using the new EHR, the agreement directs the 
     Department to periodically report to the Committees on 
     changes to staffing levels, productivity compared to pre-
     implementation levels, and wait times for access to VA care 
     and care in the community. The Department is strongly 
     discouraged from retaliation against employees who raise 
     patient safety concerns related to EHRM activities.


                      OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL

       The agreement provides $273,000,000 for the Office of 
     Inspector General. Of the amount provided, up to 10 percent 
     is available for obligation until September 30, 2024.


                      CONSTRUCTION, MAJOR PROJECTS

       The agreement provides $1,447,890,000 for Construction, 
     Major Projects. The agreement makes this funding available 
     for five years, except that $716,168,000 is made available 
     until expended, of which $1,500,000 shall be available for 
     seismic improvement projects. The agreement does not provide 
     the requested new authority for VHA land acquisition.
       Construction Program.--The agreement encourages the 
     Department to take into account whether States have a full-
     service VA medical facility when determining which projects 
     to fund.
       Cost Increases.--Recognizing the challenges of inflation 
     and supply chain shortages, the agreement encourages the 
     Department to adequately resource the completion of existing 
     construction projects, including CHIP-IN for Vets Act 
     projects.
       Recurring Expenses Transformational Fund.--The agreement 
     supports the Department's plan to allocate $804,510,000 of 
     the Recurring Expenses Transformational Fund balances to 
     support construction projects in Portland, OR; Canandaigua, 
     NY; Fort Harrison, MT; and for other purposes.
       The agreement funds the following items requested in the 
     budget submission:

                                          CONSTRUCTION, MAJOR PROJECTS
                                                ($ in thousands)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                        Fiscal Year 2023 Funding
                                                                   ---------------------------------
                                                                                       Recurring
                Location                        Description                            Expenses         Total
                                                                    Appropriation  Transformational
                                                                                         Fund
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Veterans Health Administration (VHA):
  Portland, OR.........................  Upgrade Portland Bldg 100/ .............         503,000        503,000
                                          101 for Seismic Retrofit
                                          and Renovation.
  Louisville, KY.......................  New Medical Facility.....        35,000   ................       35,000
  Canandaigua, NY......................  Construction and           .............          62,500         62,500
                                          Renovation.
  Alameda, CA..........................  Community Based                 128,800   ................      128,800
                                          Outpatient Clinic and
                                          National Cemetery.
  Livermore, CA........................  Realignment and Closure,         35,000   ................       35,000
                                          Livermore Campus.
  Fort Harrison, MT....................  Seismic Upgrade and        .............          88,600         88,600
                                          Specialty Care
                                          Improvements.
  El Paso, TX..........................  Construct New Health Care       550,000   ................      550,000
                                          Center.
  Various Stations.....................  Advance Planning and            266,378           70,000        336,378
                                          Design Fund.
  Various Stations.....................  Asbestos.................  .............          15,000         15,000
  Various Stations.....................  Claims Analysis..........         2,500   ................        2,500
  Various Stations.....................  Construction and                128,122   ................      128,122
                                          Facilities Management
                                          Staff.
  Various Stations.....................  Hazardous Waste..........        16,000   ................       16,000
  Various Stations.....................  Non-Departmental Federal        134,590           65,410        200,000
                                          Entity Project
                                          Management Support.

[[Page S9235]]

 
  Various Stations.....................  Seismic Corrections......         1,500   ................        1,500
    Subtotal, VHA......................  .........................     1,297,890          804,510      2,102,400
National Cemetery Administration (NCA):
  Elmira, NY...........................  Phase 1 Gravesite                25,000   ................       25,000
                                          Development.
  Albuquerque, NM......................  Phase 1 Gravesite                57,000   ................       57,000
                                          Expansion.
  St. Louis, MO........................  Phase 1 Gravesite                44,000   ................       44,000
                                          Development (New Land).
  Various Stations.....................  Advance Planning and             13,000   ................       13,000
                                          Design Fund.
  Various Stations.....................  NCA Land Acquisition.....         1,000   ................        1,000
    Subtotal, NCA......................  .........................       140,000   ................      140,000
General Administration/Staff Offices:..  Department Advance               10,000   ................       10,000
                                          Planning and Design Fund
                                          for Major Construction.
    Major Construction, Total..........  .........................     1,447,890          804,510      2,252,400
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                      CONSTRUCTION, MINOR PROJECTS

       The agreement provides $626,110,000 for Construction, Minor 
     Projects. The agreement makes this funding available for five 
     years, except that $62,611,000 is made available until 
     expended. The agreement supports the allocation included in 
     the budget request, providing $344,245,000 for the Veterans 
     Health Administration, $157,265,000 for the National Cemetery 
     Administration, $30,000,000 for the Veterans Benefits 
     Administration, and $94,600,000 for staff offices (including 
     the Office of Information Technology). The agreement directs 
     the Department to provide an expenditure plan to the 
     Committees no later than 30 days after enactment of this Act.
       Support the Expeditious Enactment of the Greater Los 
     Angeles Healthcare System's Master Plan.--The agreement 
     supports the Department's efforts to operationalize the 
     Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System's Master Plan and 
     encourages continued engagement with the Principal Developer 
     Team and others on any potential funding opportunities, 
     including Capital Contributions.
       Recurring Expenses Transformational Fund.--The agreement 
     supports the Department's plan to allocate $88,490,000 of the 
     Recurring Expenses Transformational Fund balances to support 
     facilities improvements at existing medical facilities.


       GRANTS FOR CONSTRUCTION OF STATE EXTENDED CARE FACILITIES

       The agreement provides $150,000,000 for Grants for 
     Construction of State Extended Care Facilities, to remain 
     available until expended.


             Grants for Construction of Veterans Cemeteries

       The agreement provides $50,000,000 for Grants for 
     Construction of Veterans Cemeteries, to remain available 
     until expended.

                    Cost of War Toxic Exposures Fund

       The agreement provides $5,000,000,000 in direct spending 
     for the Cost of War Toxic Exposures Fund (the Fund) 
     established to support new costs related to providing 
     veterans and their families the benefits and care associated 
     with the eligibility expansion included in the Honoring our 
     PACT Act of 2022 (P.L. 117-168). The combination of these 
     funds and those made available through discretionary 
     appropriations in this Act and through other sources, fully 
     support the administration's request to implement the PACT 
     Act in fiscal year 2023, including to address increased 
     demand for health care and benefits, and reflect the 
     expedited implementation schedule announced by the President 
     on August 10, 2022. The agreement does not shift 
     discretionary resources to the Fund.
       The intent of the Fund is to address the costs associated 
     with implementing the PACT Act, including additional future 
     eligibilities that result from the process changes enacted. 
     This Fund is intended to be used to cover the costs of care 
     and delivery of benefits that are related to toxic exposure. 
     The appropriations provided in this Fund supplement VA's 
     ongoing efforts to provide toxic exposure-related healthcare 
     or other benefits that VA had authority for prior to passage 
     of the PACT Act.
       The agreement requires an expenditure plan to be submitted 
     to the Committees on Appropriations. This expenditure plan is 
     critical to ensure proper usage of the Fund, and will inform 
     future budget estimates, including those from the 
     Congressional Budget Office, on exactly how the Fund will be 
     applied.

                       Administrative Provisions


             (INCLUDING TRANSFERS AND RESCISSIONS OF FUNDS)

       The agreement includes section 201 allowing for the 
     transfer of funds among the three mandatory accounts.
       The agreement includes section 202 allowing for the 
     transfer of funds among the four medical accounts.
       The agreement includes section 203 allowing salaries and 
     expenses funds to be used for the hire of passenger vehicles, 
     lease of facilities or land, and purchase of uniforms.
       The agreement includes section 204 restricting the accounts 
     that may be used for the acquisition of land or the 
     construction of any new hospital or home.
       The agreement includes section 205 limiting the use of 
     funds in the Medical Services account only for entitled 
     beneficiaries unless reimbursement is made to the Department.
       The agreement includes section 206 allowing for the use of 
     certain mandatory appropriations accounts for payment of 
     prior year accrued obligations for those accounts.
       The agreement includes section 207 allowing the use of 
     appropriations available in this title to pay prior year 
     obligations.
       The agreement includes section 208 allowing the Department 
     to use surplus earnings from the National Service Life 
     Insurance Fund, the Veterans' Special Life Insurance Fund, 
     and the United States Government Life Insurance Fund to 
     administer these programs.
       The agreement includes section 209 allowing the Department 
     to cover the administrative expenses of enhanced-use leases 
     and provides authority to obligate these reimbursements until 
     expended.
       The agreement includes section 210 limiting the amount of 
     reimbursement the Office of Resolution Management, Diversity 
     and Inclusion, the Office of Employment Discrimination 
     Complaint Adjudication, and the Alternative Dispute 
     Resolution function within the Office of Human Resources and 
     Administration can charge other offices of the Department for 
     services provided.
       The agreement includes section 211 requiring the Department 
     to collect third-party payer information for persons treated 
     for a non-service-connected disability.
       The agreement includes section 212 allowing for the use of 
     enhanced-use leasing revenues for Construction, Major 
     Projects and Construction, Minor Projects.
       The agreement includes section 213 outlining authorized 
     uses for Medical Services funds.
       The agreement includes section 214 allowing for funds 
     deposited into the Medical Care Collections Fund to be 
     transferred to the Medical Services and Medical Community 
     Care accounts.
       The agreement includes section 215 allowing Alaskan 
     veterans to use medical facilities of the Indian Health 
     Service or Tribal organizations.
       The agreement includes section 216 permitting the transfer 
     of funds from the Department of Veterans Affairs Capital 
     Asset Fund to the Construction, Major Projects and 
     Construction, Minor Projects accounts and makes those funds 
     available until expended.
       The agreement includes section 217 requiring the Secretary 
     to submit financial status quarterly reports for the 
     Department. The specific data requested is similar to that 
     requested in the fiscal year 2017 conference report.
       The agreement includes section 218 requiring the Department 
     to notify and receive approval from the Committees of any 
     proposed transfer of funding to or from the Information 
     Technology Systems account and limits the aggregate annual 
     increase in the account to no more than 10 percent of the 
     funding appropriated to the account in this Act.
       The agreement includes section 219 providing up to 
     $330,140,000 of specified fiscal year 2023 funds for transfer 
     to the Joint DOD-VA Medical Facility Demonstration Fund.
       The agreement includes section 220 which permits up to 
     $314,825,000 of specified fiscal year 2024 medical care 
     funding provided in advance to be transferred to the Joint 
     DOD-VA Medical Facility Demonstration Fund.
       The agreement includes section 221 which authorizes 
     transfers from the Medical Care Collections Fund to the Joint 
     DOD-VA Medical Facility Demonstration Fund.
       The agreement includes section 222 which transfers at least 
     $15,000,000 from VA medical accounts to the DOD-VA Health 
     Care Sharing Incentive Fund.
       The agreement includes section 223 prohibiting funds from 
     being used to replace the current system by which VISNs 
     select and contract for diabetes monitoring supplies and 
     equipment.
       The agreement includes section 224 requiring that the 
     Department notify the Committees of bid savings in a major 
     construction project of at least $5,000,000, or 5 percent, 
     whichever is less, 14 days prior to the obligation of the bid 
     savings and describe their anticipated use.
       The agreement includes section 225 which prohibits VA from 
     increasing the scope of

[[Page S9236]]

     work for a major construction project above the scope 
     specified in the original budget request unless the Secretary 
     receives approval from the Committees.
       The agreement includes section 226 requiring a quarterly 
     report from each VBA regional office on pending disability 
     claims, both initial and supplemental; error rates; the 
     number of claims processing personnel; corrective actions 
     taken; training programs; and review team audit results. It 
     also requires a quarterly report on the number of appeals 
     pending at the Veterans Benefits Administration and the Board 
     of Veterans Appeals.
       The agreement includes section 227 requiring VA to notify 
     the Committees 15 days prior to any staff office relocations 
     within VA of 25 or more full-time-equivalent staff.
       The agreement includes section 228 requiring the Secretary 
     to report to the Committees each quarter about any single 
     national outreach and awareness marketing campaign exceeding 
     $1,000,000.
       The agreement includes section 229 permitting the transfer 
     to the Medical Services account of fiscal year discretionary 
     2023 funds appropriated in this Act or available from advance 
     fiscal year 2023 funds already appropriated, except for funds 
     appropriated to General Operating Expenses, VBA, to address 
     possible unmet, high priority needs in Medical Services, upon 
     approval of the Committees.
       The agreement includes section 230 permitting the transfer 
     of funding between the General Operating Expenses, Veterans 
     Benefits Administration account and the Board of Veterans 
     Appeals account upon approval of the Committees.
       The agreement includes section 231 prohibiting the 
     Secretary from reprogramming funds in excess of $7,000,000 
     among the major construction projects or programs unless the 
     reprogramming is approved by the Committees.
       The agreement includes section 232 maintaining certain 
     professional standards for the veterans crisis hotline and 
     requiring a study to assess its effectiveness.
       The agreement includes section 233 prohibiting the use of 
     funds, from the period October 1, 2018, through January 1, 
     2024, in contravention of VHA's guidelines on breast cancer 
     screening published on May 10, 2017.
       The agreement includes section 234 addressing the use of 
     funding for assisted reproductive technology treatment and 
     adoption reimbursement.
       The agreement includes section 235 prohibiting any funds 
     being used in a manner that is inconsistent with statutory 
     limitations on outsourcing.
       The agreement includes section 236 pertaining to exceptions 
     for Indian- or Native Hawaiian-owned businesses contracting 
     with VA.
       The agreement includes section 237 directing the 
     elimination over a series of years of the use of social 
     security numbers in VA programs.
       The agreement includes section 238 referencing the 
     provision in the 2017 Appropriations Act pertaining to 
     certification of marriage and family therapists.
       The agreement includes section 239, which prohibits funds 
     from being used to transfer funding from the Filipino 
     Veterans Equity Compensation Fund to any other VA account.
       The agreement includes section 240 permitting funding to be 
     used in fiscal years 2023 and 2024 to carry out and expand 
     the child care pilot program authorized by section 205 of 
     Public Law 111-163.
       The agreement includes section 241 prohibiting VA from 
     using funds to enter into an agreement to resolve a dispute 
     or claim with an individual that would restrict the 
     individual from speaking to members of Congress or their 
     staff on any topic, except those required to be kept secret 
     in the interest of national defense or the conduct of foreign 
     affairs.
       The agreement includes section 242 referencing language in 
     the 2017 Appropriations Act requiring certain data to be 
     included in budget justifications for major construction 
     projects.
       The agreement includes section 243 prohibiting the use of 
     funds to deny the Inspector General timely access to 
     information unless a provision of law expressly refers to the 
     Inspector General and expressly limits such access.
       The agreement includes section 244 prohibiting funding from 
     being used in a manner that would increase wait times for 
     veterans at medical facilities.
       The agreement includes section 245 prohibiting the use of 
     funds in fiscal year 2023 to convert any program which 
     received specific purpose funds in fiscal year 2022 to a 
     general purpose-funded program without the approval of the 
     Committees on Appropriations at least 30 days prior to any 
     such action.
       The agreement includes section 246 referencing language in 
     the 2017 Appropriations Act regarding the verification of 
     service for coastwise merchant seamen.
       The agreement includes section 247 addressing animal 
     research at the Department of Veterans Affairs.
       The agreement includes section 248 requiring the ratio of 
     veterans to full-time employment equivalents in any 
     rehabilitation program not to exceed 125 veterans to one 
     full-time employment equivalent.
       The agreement includes section 249 allowing fiscal year 
     2023 and 2024 ``Medical Community Care'' funds to be used to 
     cover obligations that otherwise would be paid by the 
     Veterans Choice Fund, if necessary.
       The agreement includes section 250 allowing obligations and 
     expenditures applicable to the ``Medical Services'' account 
     in fiscal years 2017 through 2019 for aid to state homes to 
     remain in the ``Medical Community Care'' account.
       The agreement includes section 251 specifying an amount 
     from the four medical care accounts for gender-specific care 
     for women.
       The agreement includes section 252 allocating funds from 
     the ``Recurring Expenses Transformational Fund'' established 
     in section 243 of division J of Public Law 114-113.
       The agreement includes section 253 requiring quarterly 
     reports on the status of the ``Veterans Medical Care and 
     Health Fund,'' established to execute section 8002 of the 
     American Rescue Plan.
       The agreement includes section 254 providing contributions 
     from other Federal agencies to VA Non-Profit Corporations for 
     research with an extended distribution authority on valid 
     obligations.
       The agreement includes section 255 rescinding unobligated 
     balances.
       The agreement includes section 256 to limit funds from 
     being used to close medical facilities.
       The agreement includes section 257 rescinding unobligated 
     balances.
       The agreement includes section 258 to allow use of 
     unobligated balances to support construction projects in the 
     CHIP-IN program.

                               TITLE III

                            RELATED AGENCIES

                  American Battle Monuments Commission


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement provides $87,500,000 for Salaries and 
     Expenses of the American Battle Monuments Commission (ABMC), 
     an increase of $700,000 above the budget request. The 
     additional funds will allow ABMC to not only maintain the 
     cemeteries and monuments honoring America's war dead, but 
     also to preserve and communicate these veterans' stories of 
     courage and sacrifice.


                 FOREIGN CURRENCY FLUCTUATIONS ACCOUNT

       The agreement provides such sums as necessary for the 
     Foreign Currency Fluctuations Account.

           United States Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement provides $46,900,000 for Salaries and 
     Expenses for the United States Court of Appeals for Veterans 
     Claims (CAVC). The funding supports a planned expansion of 
     CAVC's authorization for additional judges, which will help 
     address growing caseloads.
       Evaluating Recurring Appeals Issues.--The Committees are 
     concerned certain issues involving veterans' claims continue 
     to surface on appeals to the CAVC. Veterans who disagree with 
     a VA decision may seek another review by the Administration 
     of jurisdiction, e.g., the Veterans Benefits Administration, 
     or they may appeal to the Board of Veterans' Appeals (BVA). 
     After a BVA decision, veterans may further appeal to the 
     first tribunal beyond the confines of VA--the CAVC. Despite 
     multiple layers of review at the Administration or BVA, and 
     despite years of remands, the CAVC reportedly sees recurring 
     issues with how VA processes a veteran's claim. Therefore, 
     the agreement directs the CAVC to provide a report to the 
     Committees within 90 days of enactment of this Act on the 
     recurring issues the Court addresses in VA decisions, and the 
     impact it has on the quality or timeliness of a veteran's 
     claim.

                      Department of Defense--Civil

                       Cemeterial Expenses, Army


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement provides $93,400,000 for Cemeterial Expenses, 
     Army--Salaries and Expenses. Within that amount, up to 
     $15,000,000 in funding is available until September 30, 2025.


                              CONSTRUCTION

       The agreement provides $62,500,000 for Construction, 
     including $60,000,000 to support Arlington National 
     Cemetery's Southern Expansion project that would provide 
     approximately 80,000 burial opportunities and extend the life 
     of the Cemetery. The agreement directs the Cemetery to 
     include in its required quarterly reports status updates on 
     funds obligated, including previously appropriated funds, and 
     funds remaining for the Southern Expansion project, as well 
     as any remaining unfunded needs to complete the project.
       The agreement also provides $2,500,000 to begin the process 
     of a project to make improvements to Memorial Avenue, and 
     directs the Cemetery to provide updates on the status of this 
     study and project, including obligations of funds.

                      Armed Forces Retirement Home


                               TRUST FUND

       The agreement provides a total of $75,360,000 for the Armed 
     Forces Retirement Home (AFRH). The funding supports high-
     priority capital projects, particularly those currently under 
     design, as well as operations and maintenance requirements. 
     The agreement requires AFRH to provide an expenditure plan 
     detailing the planned use of the funds provided for capital 
     projects, as directed in House Report 117-391. The agreement 
     also includes two-year availability of funds for operations 
     and maintenance.


                           MAJOR CONSTRUCTION

       The agreement provides $77,000,000 in major construction 
     funding to support renovation of the Sheridan Building on the

[[Page S9237]]

     Washington campus, which will improve resident safety and 
     quality of life, address needed maintenance projects, and 
     provide additional opportunities for AFRH to increase 
     occupancy rates. The Committees request quarterly reports on 
     the status of this construction project, including 
     obligations of funds, anticipated timelines, and any changes 
     to the overall cost of the project.

                        Administrative Provision

       The agreement includes section 301 permitting funds from 
     concessions at Army National Military Cemeteries to be used 
     to support activities at the Cemeteries.

                                TITLE IV

                           GENERAL PROVISIONS

       The agreement includes section 401 prohibiting the 
     obligation of funds in this Act beyond the current fiscal 
     year unless expressly so provided.
       The agreement includes section 402 prohibiting the use of 
     the funds in this Act for programs, projects, or activities 
     not in compliance with Federal law relating to risk 
     assessment, the protection of private property rights, or 
     unfunded mandates.
       The agreement includes section 403 encouraging all 
     departments and agencies funded in this Act to expand the use 
     of ``E-Commerce'' technologies and procedures.
       The agreement includes section 404 specifying the 
     congressional committees that are to receive all reports and 
     notifications.
       The agreement includes section 405 prohibiting the transfer 
     of funds to any department, agency, or instrumentality of the 
     United States Government without authority from an 
     appropriations Act.
       The agreement includes section 406 prohibiting the use of 
     funds for a project or program named for a serving Member, 
     Delegate, or Resident Commissioner of the United States House 
     of Representatives.
       The agreement includes section 407 requiring all reports 
     submitted to Congress to be posted on official web sites of 
     the submitting agency.
       The agreement includes section 408 prohibiting the use of 
     funds to establish or maintain a computer network unless such 
     network blocks the viewing, downloading, and exchanging of 
     pornography, except for law enforcement investigation, 
     prosecution, or adjudication activities.
       The agreement includes section 409 prohibiting the use of 
     funds for the payment of first-class air travel by an 
     employee of the executive branch.
       The agreement includes section 410 prohibiting the use of 
     funds in this Act for any contract where the contractor has 
     not complied with E-Verify requirements.
       The agreement includes section 411 prohibiting the use of 
     funds in this Act to construct facilities on military 
     installations that do not meet resiliency standards.
       The agreement includes section 412 prohibiting the use of 
     funds in this Act for the renovation, expansion, or 
     construction of any facility in the continental United States 
     for the purpose of housing any individual who has been 
     detained at the United States Naval Station, Guantanamo Bay, 
     Cuba.

   DISCLOSURE OF EARMARKS AND CONGRESSIONALLY DIRECTED SPENDING ITEMS

       Following is a list of congressional earmarks and 
     congressionally directed spending items (as defined in clause 
     9 of rule XXI of the Rules of the House of Representatives 
     and rule XLIV of the Standing Rules of the Senate, 
     respectively) included in the bill or this explanatory 
     statement, along with the name of each House Member, Senator, 
     Delegate, or Resident Commissioner who submitted a request to 
     the Committee of jurisdiction for each item so identified. 
     For each item, a Member is required to provide a 
     certification that neither the Member nor the Member's 
     immediate family has a financial interest, and each Senator 
     is required to provide a certification that neither the 
     Senator nor the Senator's immediate family has a pecuniary 
     interest in such congressionally directed spending item. 
     Neither the bill nor the explanatory statement contains any 
     limited tax benefits or limited tariff benefits as defined in 
     the applicable House and Senate rules.

     MILITARY CONSTRUCTION, VETERANS AFFAIRS, AND RELATED AGENCIES


     [Community Project Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending]

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     DIVISION K--DEPARTMENT OF STATE, FOREIGN OPERATIONS, AND 
         RELATED PROGRAMS APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2023
       The explanatory statement accompanying this division is 
     approved and indicates congressional intent. In implementing 
     this agreement, Federal departments, agencies, commissions, 
     and other entities are directed to comply with the 
     directives, reporting requirements, and instructions 
     contained in the H. Rept. 117-401 (House report) accompanying 
     H.R. 8282 (House bill) as though stated in this explanatory 
     statement, unless specifically directed to the contrary.
       This explanatory statement, while repeating some House 
     report language for emphasis or clarification, does not 
     negate language in such report unless expressly provided 
     herein. Language expressing an opinion or making an 
     observation in the House report represents the view of the 
     House committee unless specifically endorsed in this 
     explanatory statement.
       Reports required to be submitted pursuant to the Act, 
     including reports required by this explanatory statement and 
     the House report, may not be consolidated to include 
     responses to multiple requirements in a single report, except 
     following consultation with the Committees on Appropriations.
       For purposes of this explanatory statement, the term ``the 
     Act'' means the Department of State, Foreign Operations, and 
     Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2023, and the term 
     ``prior Acts'' means prior Acts making appropriations for the 
     Department of State, foreign operations, and related 
     programs. In addition, ``division K of Public Law 117-103'' 
     means the Department of State, Foreign Operations, and 
     Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2022; ``division K of 
     Public Law 116-260'' means the Department of State, Foreign 
     Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2021; 
     ``division G of Public Law 116-94'' means the Department of 
     State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs 
     Appropriations Act, 2020; ``division F of Public Law 116-6'' 
     means the Department of State, Foreign Operations, and 
     Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2019; ``division J of 
     Public Law 115-31'' means the Department of State, Foreign 
     Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2017; 
     and ``division K of Public Law 114-113'' means the Department 
     of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs 
     Appropriations Act, 2016.
       For the purposes of the Act, the term ``regular 
     notification procedures of the Committees on Appropriations'' 
     shall mean such Committees must be notified not less than 15 
     days in advance of the initial obligation of funds, and the 
     term ``reporting procedures of the Committees on 
     Appropriations'' shall mean a report must be provided to such 
     Committees not more than 90 days after the conclusion of 
     fiscal year 2023.
       Federal agencies funded by the Act shall notify the 
     Committees on Appropriations of any reprogramming, as 
     required by section 7015 of the Act, at the most detailed 
     level of the Congressional Budget Justification (CBJ), the 
     Act, or this explanatory statement.
       Section 7015(c) of the Act requires that any notification 
     submitted pursuant to subsection (f) of such section include 
     information, if known on the date of transmittal of such 
     notification, on the use of notwithstanding authority. The 
     Secretary of State and Administrator of the United States 
     Agency for International Development (USAID), as appropriate, 
     shall include in such notifications detailed information on 
     the provisions of law being notwithstood and a justification 
     for the use of such authority.
       Congressional notifications submitted by the heads of the 
     Federal agencies funded in the Act for funds that are being 
     reallocated prior to initial obligation, reprogrammed, or 
     reobligated after deobligation, shall, to the maximum extent 
     practicable, contain detailed information about the sources 
     of the funds and why such funds are no longer needed or 
     intended to be used as previously justified.
       The Secretary of State and USAID Administrator are directed 
     to submit notifications for the obligation of funds made 
     available by the Act and prior Acts not later than 60 days 
     prior to the expiration of such funds.
       Section 7019 of the Act requires that amounts designated in 
     the respective tables included in this explanatory statement 
     for funds appropriated in titles III through V, including 
     tables in title VII, shall be made available in the amounts 
     designated, unless otherwise provided for in the Act, and 
     shall be the basis of the report required by section 653(a) 
     of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (FAA) (653(a) report), 
     where applicable. In lieu of the funding tables and 
     allocations of funding contained in the House report, the 
     tables and allocations contained in this explanatory 
     statement shall guide departments, agencies, commissions, and 
     other entities when allocating funds. The Act provides that 
     the amounts designated in the tables shall be made available 
     notwithstanding the date of the transmission of the 653(a) 
     report. The authority of section 7019(b) to deviate by more 
     than 10 percent shall not be used to deviate to zero unless 
     such funds cannot be legally obligated or conditions are such 
     that such deviation is directly related to the national 
     security interest of the United States.
       Proposed deviations from tables in titles I and II in this 
     explanatory statement are subject to the regular notification 
     procedures of the Committees on Appropriations unless an 
     exception or deviation authority is specifically provided in 
     the Act or this explanatory statement.
       The Secretary of State and the USAID Administrator shall 
     continue to provide the Committees on Appropriations 
     electronic copies of all reports, notifications, spend plans, 
     and any other documents required by the Act, prior Acts, this 
     and prior explanatory statements and statements of managers, 
     the House report, and prior House and Senate reports.
       For purposes of the Act and this explanatory statement, the 
     term ``prior consultation'' means a pre-decisional engagement 
     between a relevant Federal agency and the Committees on 
     Appropriations during which such Committees are given a 
     meaningful opportunity to provide facts and opinions, in 
     advance of any public announcement, to inform: (1) the use of 
     funds; (2) the development, content, or conduct of a program 
     or activity; or (3) a decision to be taken. Additionally, 
     section 7020 of the Act includes specific requirements 
     regarding multi-year pledges.
       Notwithstanding authority included in any provision of the 
     Act shall not be construed to exclude the requirements of 
     such provision.
       Pursuant to section 7016(b), any Federal agency receiving 
     funds made available by the Act shall post on its publicly 
     available website any report required by the Act not later 
     than 45 days following the receipt of such report by 
     Congress. This requirement does not apply if: (1) the public 
     posting of the report would compromise national security, 
     including the conduct of diplomacy; (2) the report contains 
     proprietary or other privileged information; or (3) the 
     public posting of the report is specifically exempted in the 
     House report or this explanatory statement.
       For purposes of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit 
     Control Act of 1985 (Public Law 99-177), with respect to 
     appropriations contained in the Act, the term ``program, 
     project, and activity'' (PPA) means any item for which a 
     dollar amount is specified in the Act or this explanatory 
     statement. In addition, the definition of PPA in section 7023 
     of the Act shall apply to the accounts listed in that 
     section. In carrying out any Presidential sequestration, 
     Federal agencies funded by the Act shall conform to the 
     definition of PPA described in this paragraph.
       In submitting annual CBJs, each Federal agency funded by 
     the Act shall include detailed information on all available 
     resources, including estimated prior fiscal year unobligated 
     balances and recoveries, reimbursable agreements, funds 
     transferred pursuant to section 632(a) and (b) of the FAA and 
     significant uses of the Economy Act (31 U.S.C. 1535). 
     Agencies that use a Working Capital Fund (WCF) shall include 
     in CBJs the total budgetary resources for each office that 
     receives funds from a WCF, and include a table on WCF 
     resources that will serve as a baseline for reprogramming and 
     transfer purposes. CBJs shall also include estimated savings 
     from any proposed office or mission closure or 
     reorganization, elimination of special envoys and other 
     senior level special representatives, and actual prior fiscal 
     year representation and entertainment expenses for each 
     department and agency where such expenses are 
     authorized.Spend plans submitted pursuant to section 7062(b) 
     of the Act shall: (1) include all intended sources of funds 
     made available by the Act and any other resources, as 
     applicable, for such program; and (2) conform to the 
     definition of such plan under section 7034(s)(4) of the Act.
       Consistent with prior fiscal years, none of the funds made 
     available by the Act may be used to send or otherwise pay for 
     the attendance of more than 50 employees of Federal agencies 
     who are stationed in the United States at any single 
     international conference occurring outside the United States, 
     unless the Secretary of State reports to the appropriate 
     congressional committees at least 5 days in advance that such 
     attendance is important to the national interest.
       For purposes of this restriction, the term ``international 
     conference'' means a conference attended by representatives 
     of the United States Government and of foreign governments, 
     international organizations, or nongovernmental organizations 
     (NGOs).
       Federal agencies funded by the Act shall not provide 
     bonuses to government contractors who fail to complete their 
     contract in a satisfactory manner, including as a result of 
     avoidable scheduling delays or cost overruns.
       The agreement does not endorse directives under certain 
     House report headings: Non-discrimination policies (under 
     Operating Expenses); and Assistance Priorities under section 
     7045 regarding funding for violence prevention programs at 
     Mexico's northern border.
       In addition to amounts in this division, the agreement 
     includes $16,565,000,000 in division M to respond to the 
     situation in Ukraine and in countries impacted by the 
     situation in Ukraine and for additional support and 
     assistance for other operations, vulnerable populations, and 
     communities.

                                TITLE I

                 DEPARTMENT OF STATE AND RELATED AGENCY

                          DEPARTMENT OF STATE

                   Administration of Foreign Affairs

       The agreement includes $12,963,396,000 for Administration 
     of Foreign Affairs. The agreement includes a total of 
     $5,771,528,000

[[Page S9286]]

     for embassy security, which are allocated according to the 
     following table:

                            EMBASSY SECURITY
               [Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                Budget
                      Account/Program                         Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Worldwide Security Protection..............................    3,813,707
Embassy Security, Construction, and Maintenance............    1,957,821
                                                            ------------
  Total....................................................    5,771,528
------------------------------------------------------------------------

                          DIPLOMATIC PROGRAMS

       The agreement includes $9,463,159,000 for Diplomatic 
     Programs in this division. In addition, $147,054,000 is 
     included under this heading in division M of the Act. Funds 
     appropriated by the Act for activities, bureaus, and offices 
     under this heading are allocated according to the following 
     table:

                           DIPLOMATIC PROGRAMS
               [Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Budget
                        Category                             Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Human Resources.........................................       3,420,898
  Worldwide Security Protection.........................         684,767
Overseas Programs.......................................       1,841,831
Diplomatic Policy and Support...........................       1,043,372
Security Programs.......................................       3,157,058
  Worldwide Security Protection.........................       3,128,940
                                                         ---------------
    Total...............................................       9,463,159
------------------------------------------------------------------------


                              BUREAU/OFFICE
               (includes salary and bureau-managed funds)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bureau of Administration
  Freedom of Information Act............................          41,300
Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor
  Atrocities Prevention Training........................             500
  Democracy fellowship program..........................             800
  Human Rights Vetting..................................          20,000
  Special Advisor on International Disability Rights....             750
  Special Advisor to Advance the Human Rights of LGBTQI+             500
   Persons..............................................
Bureau of Economic and Business Affairs
  Office of Terrorism Financing and Economic Sanctions            10,691
   Policy...............................................
Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs
  Office of the Special Envoy for Holocaust Issues......           1,500
Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs
  U.S. Special Envoy for Yemen..........................             500
Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and
 Scientific Affairs
  Ambassador-at-Large for the Arctic Region.............           2,000
Office of International Religious Freedom...............           8,840
  Religious freedom curriculum development..............             600
Office of the Secretary
  Office of Diversity and Inclusion.....................           7,249
  Office of Global Women's Issues.......................          15,000
  Office to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism............           1,500
  Office of the Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage             2,000
   Affairs..............................................
  Special Coordinator for Tibetan Issues................           1,000
Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons.....          17,000
Race, Ethnicity, and Social Inclusion Unit..............           2,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       The agreement includes funding for additional Foreign 
     Service Officers and Civil Service positions for the 
     Department of State in fiscal year 2023. Prior to submitting 
     the operating plan required by section 7062(a) of the Act, 
     the Secretary of State shall consult with the Committees on 
     Appropriations on major changes from the prior fiscal year, 
     including funding for programs, offices, and staffing 
     increases referenced in this explanatory statement.
       Arctic.--The Secretary of State shall prioritize filling 
     the position of Ambassador-at-Large for the Arctic Region and 
     ensure that the United States enhances its engagement in such 
     region. The agreement provides $2,000,000 to support the 
     Ambassador-at-Large, $50,000 for the Indigenous Peoples 
     Secretariat to support the work of U.S.-based Permanent Party 
     Participants to the Arctic Council, and funding for the next 
     Conference of Parliamentarians of the Arctic Region. The 
     Secretary of State shall support the 2024 Arctic Winter Games 
     and work with the Department of the Interior to ensure 
     appropriate support for the Arctic Youth Ambassadors Program.
       Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of the 
     Act, the Secretary of State shall update the report required 
     under this heading in Senate Report 116-126 in the manner 
     described, including progress made in fiscal year 2022 and 
     efforts planned in fiscal year 2023 to better coordinate 
     Arctic policy within the Department of State.
       Bureau of Cyberspace and Digital Policy.--The agreement 
     endorses the language under this heading in the House report.
       Bureau of Intelligence and Research.--The agreement 
     includes funding above the prior fiscal year for the Bureau 
     of Intelligence and Research, including for information 
     technology (IT) modernization, which shall be made available 
     following consultation with the Committees on Appropriations.
       Caribbean Countries.--The Secretary of State and USAID 
     Administrator shall, not later than 90 days after the date of 
     enactment of the Act, review the United States diplomatic and 
     development presence in the Caribbean and develop and submit 
     to the Committees on Appropriations a plan for expanding such 
     presence, with a particular focus on the Eastern and Southern 
     Caribbean. Such plan shall review and examine: (1) the 
     personnel, facility, and transportation assets, particularly 
     options for improved methods for transit between islands, 
     needed to reengage in a region and in countries where there 
     is no regular presence of United States diplomatic or 
     development personnel; (2) provide an estimate of resources 
     required; and (3) a timeline for the plan's implementation.
       Case-Zablocki Act.--The agreement provides increased 
     funding to enhance Executive Branch reporting to Congress on 
     binding and non-binding instruments, including implementation 
     of the Case-Zablocki Act (1 U.S.C. 112b).
       Charleston Passport Center.--Not later than 90 days after 
     the date of enactment of the Act, the Secretary of State 
     shall consult with the Committees on Appropriations on the 
     operations of the Charleston Passport Center, particularly 
     the need for in-person constituent appointments.
       Consular Operations.--Not later than 90 days after the date 
     of enactment of the Act, the Secretary of State shall submit 
     a report to the Committees on Appropriations detailing steps 
     taken to address visa and passport processing backlogs, 
     including the expansion of interview waivers, implementation 
     of new technology, and increases for staffing.
       Conventional Arms Transfer Policy Oversight.--The agreement 
     includes $5,000,000 above the prior fiscal year to increase 
     staffing and resources for the Bureaus of Political-Military 
     Affairs and Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) to 
     enable efficient management and robust oversight of United 
     States security assistance programs, related statutory 
     requirements, and implementation of the Conventional Arms 
     Transfer Policy.
       Department of State Staffing Reports.--Not later than 60 
     days after the date of enactment of the Act and every quarter 
     thereafter until September 30, 2024, the Secretary of State 
     shall submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations 
     detailing the on-board personnel levels, hiring, and 
     attrition of the Civil Service, Foreign Service, eligible 
     family members, and the Locally Employed Staff (LES) 
     workforce of the Department of State.
       Diversity and Inclusion.--The agreement includes funding 
     for workforce diversity initiatives, including not less than 
     $6,000,000 each for the Pickering and Rangel Fellowships and 
     additional funds for the International Career Advancement 
     Program. The Department of State should continue to evaluate 
     diversity across Foreign Service Specialist tracks and 
     Generalist cones and determine whether the Foreign Affairs IT 
     Fellowship model or other such existing models could be 
     expanded to increase diversity in other fields.
       Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of the 
     Act, the Secretary of State and USAID Administrator shall 
     submit a report to the appropriate congressional committees 
     describing the demographic composition of their respective 
     Federal advisory committees, boards, or commissions, 
     including any selections for advisory committees, boards, or 
     commissions in fiscal year 2023.
       Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of the 
     Act, the Secretary of State shall update the report required 
     under the heading Department of State Diversity and Inclusion 
     in the explanatory statement accompanying division K of 
     Public Law 117-103.
       East Asia and the Pacific Region.--The Department of State 
     shall ensure sufficient personnel are assigned to posts in 
     the East Asia and Pacific regions, including management, 
     security, political, consular, and economic officers in Laos, 
     New Zealand, and Samoa.
       Employment in International Organizations.--The agreement 
     provides $500,000 for grants, programs, and activities to 
     promote the employment of U.S. citizens by international 
     organizations and bodies, including through consultation, 
     analytical services, and related support for such applicants.
       Freedom of Expression Curriculum.--Not later than 60 days 
     after the date of enactment of the Act, the Secretary of 
     State shall update the report to the Committees on 
     Appropriations on the status of implementing the curriculum 
     directed to be established under this heading in Senate 
     Report 116-126.
       Global Criminal Justice.--The agreement provides funds 
     under this heading for the Office of Global Criminal Justice 
     (GCJ) to hire additional personnel above the prior fiscal 
     year to enhance GCJ's capacity to manage programs implemented 
     pursuant to section 7066(b) of the Act. Not later than 45 
     days after the date of enactment of the Act, the Ambassador-
     at-Large for GCJ shall consult with the Committees on 
     Appropriations on the implementation of such directive.
       Intercountry Adoption.--The Secretary of State should 
     ensure that the fee schedule approved for the Intercountry 
     Adoption Accreditation and Maintenance Entity, Inc. (IAAME) 
     does not impose undue financial burdens on families seeking 
     to adopt internationally and confirm that fees collected for 
     monitoring and oversight by IAAME are not used for other 
     unpermitted purposes. The next annual report on intercountry 
     adoptions, as required by Public Law 106-279, shall detail 
     efforts of the Department of State to increase intercountry 
     adoptions in fiscal year 2023, including steps that the 
     Bureau of Consular Affairs takes to address impediments to 
     intercountry adoption and an assessment of the country-
     specific technical assistance required to strengthen 
     intercountry adoption programs in partner countries.
       International Fisheries Management Coordination.--The 
     Secretary of State shall work with Canadian officials and 
     relevant stakeholders to develop an agreement that addresses 
     territorial disputes and conflicting fisheries management 
     measures in the Gulf of Maine. Not later than 120 days after 
     the date of enactment of the Act, the Secretary shall submit 
     a report to the Committees on Appropriations detailing 
     progress toward, and contents of, such an agreement.
       Nancy Pelosi Fellowship Program.--The agreement includes 
     $2,000,000 for a new

[[Page S9287]]

     Nancy Pelosi Fellowship Program for undergraduate students to 
     take advantage of internship opportunities at think tanks, 
     foundations, or other non-education institutions dedicated to 
     global service and engagement as they pursue a career in the 
     Foreign Service. The Secretary of State shall consult with 
     the Committees on Appropriations not later than 90 days after 
     the date of enactment of the Act on the establishment of such 
     program.
       Office of Canadian Affairs.--The agreement provides 
     $500,000 for the Office of Canadian Affairs to continue 
     leading the U.S. interagency working group to identify gaps 
     and limitations within the Memoranda of Understanding between 
     British Columbia and Alaska, Washington, Idaho, and Montana.
       Office of Global Food Security, Department of State.--The 
     agreement includes $3,000,000 for the Office of Global Food 
     Security to begin hiring to the Office's pre-2017 staffing 
     level and to carry out the diplomatic initiatives of the 
     office.
       Outstanding Judgments.--The Secretary of State shall 
     assist, as appropriate, in obtaining payment of outstanding 
     judgments against foreign governments and diplomats, 
     including in the human trafficking civil case Lipenga v. 
     Kambalame, and submit a report to the Committees on 
     Appropriations not later than 30 days after the date of 
     enactment of the Act on progress in resolving that case in 
     the prior fiscal year.
       Pacific Islands Countries.--In addition to the reporting 
     requirements contained in the House report under the heading 
     Diplomatic and Development Presence in the Pacific Islands, 
     the Secretary of State, in consultation with the USAID 
     Administrator, as appropriate, shall report to the Committees 
     on Appropriations on: (1) the anticipated costs and timeline 
     for opening diplomatic facilities in Kiribati, Tonga, Solomon 
     Islands, and Vanuatu and expanding diplomatic and development 
     personnel in the region, including Samoa; (2) the anticipated 
     timeline for expanding and stationing United States direct 
     hires and hiring Locally Employed Staff in such countries, 
     and the feasibility of posting consular positions at such 
     facilities; (3) the feasibility for establishing a resident 
     Ambassador to such countries, and Samoa; and (4) options for 
     improved methods for transit to and between countries and 
     islands, including the feasibility and cost of operating and 
     maintaining dedicated transportation assets.
       Paid Internships.--The agreement provides $18,000,000 for 
     paid internships for the Department of State as authorized by 
     section 9201 of the Department of State Authorization Act of 
     2022 (division I of H.R. 7900).
       Preventing Diplomats from Aiding and Abetting Flights from 
     Justice.--The Secretary of State shall update the report 
     required under this heading in Senate Report 116-126 in the 
     manner described, except such report shall detail the steps 
     taken by the Department of State since the submission of the 
     previous report.
       Private Security Companies.--Not later than 90 days after 
     the date of enactment of the Act, the Secretary of State 
     shall update the report required under this heading in Senate 
     Report 115-152 regarding actions taken to ensure consistency 
     in upholding standards and codes of conduct used by certain 
     private security companies.
       Real Property.--The Secretary of State shall assist in 
     facilitating resolutions of commercial disputes involving 
     United States entities seeking the return of real property 
     seized or expropriated by foreign governments, as 
     appropriate.
       Sanctions Implementation.--The agreement includes funding 
     to continue to strengthen implementation of the Global 
     Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act (22 U.S.C. 10101 et 
     seq), including for the Bureaus of Economic and Business 
     Affairs, International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs 
     (INL), and DRL. The agreement also endorses House report 
     language under the heading Combating corruption under section 
     7045 of such report. The Secretary of State shall consult 
     with the Committees on Appropriations not later than 90 days 
     after the date of enactment of the Act on the implementation 
     of these directives.
       Security Clearances.--Not later than 90 days after the date 
     of enactment of the Act, the Secretary of State shall submit 
     a report to the Committees on Appropriations detailing: (1) 
     the average processing time to complete a security clearance 
     investigation; (2) the efforts the Department and partner 
     agencies are undertaking to reduce that processing time; and 
     (3) the projected results by the end of fiscal year 2023.
       Staff Care and Resilience.--The agreement provides funds to 
     enhance staff care and resilience programs at the Department 
     of State. Not later than 120 days after the date of enactment 
     of the Act, the Secretary of State shall update the report 
     required under this heading in the explanatory statement 
     accompanying division K of Public Law 117-103.
       Unexplained Health Incidents.--The agreement provides 
     funding to assist Department of State personnel and their 
     family members who have been impacted by unexplained health 
     incidents. Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment 
     of the Act, the Secretary of State shall submit a report to 
     the Committees on Appropriations detailing the Department's 
     ongoing support for impacted personnel, consistent with the 
     Helping American Victims Afflicted by Neurological Attacks 
     Act of 2021 (Public Law 117-46).


                        CAPITAL INVESTMENT FUND

       The agreement includes $389,000,000 for Capital Investment 
     Fund.


                      OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL

       The agreement includes $98,500,000 for Office of Inspector 
     General in this division, of which $14,775,000 may remain 
     available until September 30, 2024, and also includes 
     $35,200,000 under this heading in this division for the 
     Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction 
     (SIGAR). In addition, $5,500,000 is included under this 
     heading in division M of the Act.
       Afghanistan.--The Secretary of State and USAID 
     Administrator shall work with SIGAR to resolve any disputes 
     related to SIGAR's ongoing investigatory and audit work, 
     consistent with prior fiscal years. The Special Inspector 
     General, the Secretary of State, and the USAID Administrator 
     shall brief the Committees on Appropriations on the status of 
     cooperation not later than 60 days after the date of 
     enactment of the Act and every 90 days thereafter until 
     September 30, 2023.


               EDUCATIONAL AND CULTURAL EXCHANGE PROGRAMS

       The agreement includes $777,500,000 for Educational and 
     Cultural Exchange Programs, of which not less than 
     $287,500,000 is for the Fulbright Program and $115,000,000 is 
     for Citizen Exchange Program. Funds under this heading are 
     allocated according to the following table:

                   EDUCATIONAL AND CULTURAL EXCHANGES
               (Budget authority in thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                   Program/Activity                     Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Academic Programs
  Fulbright Program..................................            287,500
  Global Academic Exchanges..........................             63,981
  Special Academic Exchanges.........................             22,158
    Benjamin Gilman International Scholarship Program             17,000
    South Pacific Scholarships.......................              1,000
    Vietnam Education Foundation Act of 2000.........              2,500
                                                      ------------------
  Subtotal...........................................            373,639
Professional and Cultural Exchanges
  International Visitor Leadership Program...........            105,000
  Citizen Exchange Programs..........................            115,000
    Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange................              4,125
  Special Professional and Cultural Exchanges........              7,500
    J. Christopher Stevens Virtual Exchange..........              6,000
                                                      ------------------
  Subtotal...........................................            227,500
Special Initiatives
  Young Leaders Initiatives..........................             37,500
  Countering State Disinformation and Pressure.......             12,000
  Community Engagement Exchange Program..............              6,000
    Pawel Adamowicz Exchange Program.................              1,000
------------------------------------------------------
  Subtotal...........................................             55,500
Program and Performance..............................             15,800
  Cultural Antiquities Task Force....................              1,200
American Spaces......................................             16,000
Exchanges Support....................................             89,061
                                                      ------------------
  Total..............................................            777,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Arctic Exchange Program.--The agreement provides $750,000 
     under this heading for the Arctic Exchange Program for the 
     purpose of fostering greater ties between business 
     communities in North America and Greenland.
       Community Engagement Exchange Program.--The agreement 
     directs the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs to 
     continue to focus on countries ranked as ``not free'' or 
     ``partly free'' in Freedom House's Freedom in the World 2022 
     report and where the U.S. Government does not offer other 
     comparable exchange opportunities for civil society 
     organizations.
       Fulbright Program.--The agreement includes additional funds 
     above the prior fiscal year for the Fulbright Program, 
     including funding for fellowships in Greece, Laos, and the 
     Pacific Islands countries (PICs).
       Future Leaders Exchange Program.--The Secretary of State 
     shall increase the number of female participants in the 
     Future Leaders Exchange Program, including from Central Asia.
       Increase and Diversify Education Abroad for U.S. 
     Students.--The agreement includes funding above the prior 
     fiscal year for the Increase and Diversify Education Abroad 
     for U.S. Students Program, and encourages the Secretary of 
     State to incorporate recommendations of the Commission on the 
     Abraham Lincoln Study Abroad Fellowship Program into such 
     program, as appropriate.
       Madeleine K. Albright Fellowship Program.--The agreement 
     provides $1,500,000 to establish the Madeleine K. Albright 
     Fellowship Program for participants from foreign countries 
     with a focus on understanding and promoting the core 
     principles of democratic society. The Secretary of State 
     shall consult with the Committees on Appropriations prior to 
     establishing such program.
       McCain Scholars and Fellowship Programs.--The agreement 
     provides $1,600,000 to continue funding for the three McCain 
     Scholars and Fellowship programs funded in prior Acts, 
     including $700,000 under the Benjamin Gilman International 
     Scholarships Program and $900,000 under the Fulbright 
     Program.
       Minority Serving Institutions.--The agreement provides 
     $4,000,000 for the Fulbright Historically Black Colleges and 
     Universities (HBCU) Institutional Leaders Initiative and the 
     Fulbright Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) Leaders 
     Initiative to continue to raise and expand awareness of 
     Fulbright opportunities among HBCU and HSI students and 
     faculty, and recommends that the Department of State expand 
     these initiatives to other Minority Serving Institutions. The 
     agreement endorses the reporting requirement under the 
     heading Historically Black

[[Page S9288]]

     Colleges and Universities in the House report.
       South Pacific Scholarship Program.--The agreement provides 
     $1,000,000 for the South Pacific Scholarship Program, which 
     shall be awarded on an open and competitive basis.
       U.S.-Ireland Scholarship Programs.--The agreement includes 
     funding for U.S.-Ireland scholarship programs to be matched 
     dollar-for-dollar by the Government of Ireland and awarded on 
     a competitive basis.


                        REPRESENTATION EXPENSES

       The agreement includes $7,415,000 for Representation 
     Expenses, subject to section 7010
       (e) of the Act.


              PROTECTION OF FOREIGN MISSIONS AND OFFICIALS

       The agreement includes $30,890,000 for Protection of 
     Foreign Missions and Officials.


            EMBASSY SECURITY, CONSTRUCTION, AND MAINTENANCE

       The agreement includes $1,957,821,000 for Embassy Security, 
     Construction, and Maintenance.
       Funds under this heading are allocated according to the 
     following table:

             EMBASSY SECURITY, CONSTRUCTION, AND MAINTENANCE
               [Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Budget
                     Account/Program                         Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Repair, Construction, and Operations....................         902,615
  Repair and Construction...............................         197,405
  Operations............................................         705,210
Worldwide Security Upgrades.............................       1,055,206
  Capital Security Cost Sharing and Maintenance Cost             940,206
   Sharing Programs.....................................
  Compound Security Program.............................         115,000
                                                         ---------------
    Total, Embassy Security, Construction, and                 1,957,821
     Maintenance........................................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Argentina.--Not later than 60 days after the date of 
     enactment of the Act, the Secretary of State shall consult 
     with the Committees on Appropriations on the timeline for 
     embassy construction and rehabilitation projects in Buenos 
     Aires, Argentina.
       Art in Embassies Program.--Not later than 180 days after 
     the date of enactment of the Act, the Secretary of State 
     shall update the report required under this heading in Senate 
     Report 114-79, as necessary, and identify each U.S. Embassy 
     in which the art is being displayed.
       The Secretary of State shall continue to include in 
     diplomatic facility construction project notifications that 
     contain funds for a major purchase of art, a determination 
     that such purchase is in the national interest of the United 
     States. For major purchases of art that are not part of a 
     diplomatic facility construction project, such determination 
     shall be made and reported to the Committees on 
     Appropriations prior to the obligation of funds for such 
     purpose.
       Capital Security Cost Sharing and Maintenance Cost Sharing 
     Programs.--The agreement includes $940,206,000 under this 
     heading, as well as an additional $162,285,000 in consular 
     fees, for the Department of State contribution to the Capital 
     Security Cost Sharing and Maintenance Cost Sharing Programs 
     in fiscal year 2023. An additional $1,101,726,000 is 
     available from other agency contributions.
       United States Embassy in Havana, Cuba.--The Secretary of 
     State shall update the report under this heading in Senate 
     Report 116-126 in the manner described.


           EMERGENCIES IN THE DIPLOMATIC AND CONSULAR SERVICE

       The agreement includes $8,885,000 for Emergencies in the 
     Diplomatic and Consular Service.
       Quarterly Reports.--The quarterly reports required by 
     section 124 of the Foreign Relations Authorization Act, 
     Fiscal Years 1988 and 1989 (Public Law 100-204) shall 
     include, by category, actual expenditures for the prior two 
     fiscal years and cumulative totals for the current fiscal 
     year of the funds available under this heading.


                   REPATRIATION LOANS PROGRAM ACCOUNT

       The agreement includes $1,300,000 for Repatriation Loans 
     Program Account and $1,000,000 transfer authority under 
     Emergencies in the Diplomatic and Consular Service to support 
     the subsidy cost and a total loan level of $4,753,048.


              PAYMENT TO THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE IN TAIWAN

       The agreement includes $34,083,000 for Payment to the 
     American Institute in Taiwan.
       Taiwan Fellowship Program.--The agreement provides funding 
     to establish a Taiwan Fellowship Program. Not later than 90 
     days after the date of enactment of the Act, the Secretary of 
     State, in consultation with the Director of the American 
     Institute in Taiwan, shall submit a plan to the Committees on 
     Appropriations on steps intended to be taken to establish and 
     implement such program.


         INTERNATIONAL CENTER, WASHINGTON, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

       The agreement includes $743,000 for International Center, 
     Washington, District of Columbia.


     PAYMENT TO THE FOREIGN SERVICE RETIREMENT AND DISABILITY FUND

       The agreement includes $158,900,000 for Payment to the 
     Foreign Service Retirement and Disability Fund.

                      International Organizations


              CONTRIBUTIONS TO INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

       The agreement includes $1,438,000,000 for Contributions to 
     International Organizations, of which $96,240,000 may remain 
     available until September 30, 2024.


        CONTRIBUTIONS FOR INTERNATIONAL PEACEKEEPING ACTIVITIES

       The agreement includes $1,481,915,000 for Contributions for 
     International Peacekeeping Activities, of which $740,958,000 
     may remain available until September 30, 2024.
       Report.--Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment 
     of the Act, the Secretary of State shall submit a report to 
     the Committees on Appropriations detailing overdue payments 
     to United Nations (UN) peacekeeping troop contributing 
     countries (TCCs), including an assessment of the impact of 
     such overdue payments on TCCs' operational readiness.
       Russian Military Equipment.--The Secretary of State is 
     directed to work with the UN to reduce the UN's reliance on 
     Russian military equipment, and to report to the Committees 
     on Appropriations not later than 90 days after the date of 
     enactment of the Act on steps to be taken to achieve such 
     outcome.

                       International Commissions


 INTERNATIONAL BOUNDARY AND WATER COMMISSION, UNITED STATES AND MEXICO

                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement includes $57,935,000 for Salaries and 
     Expenses, of which $8,690,000 may remain available until 
     September 30, 2024.


                              CONSTRUCTION

       The agreement includes $53,030,000 for Construction.
       Consultation.--Not later than 30 days after the date of 
     enactment of the Act, the U.S. Commissioner of the U.S. 
     Section of the International Boundary and Water Commission 
     shall consult with the Committees on Appropriations on the 
     fiscal year 2023 operating plan, including the planning, 
     resources, and timeline for new and ongoing construction 
     projects.


              AMERICAN SECTIONS, INTERNATIONAL COMMISSIONS

       The agreement includes $16,204,000 for American Sections, 
     International Commissions, of which $10,881,000 is for the 
     International Joint Commission (IJC), $2,323,000 is for the 
     International Boundary Commission, and $3,000,000 is for the 
     North American Development Bank.
       Lake Champlain-Richelieu River Watershed.--The agreement 
     provides the funding requested for the IJC to finalize 
     reports and responses to stakeholders for its multi-year, 
     U.S.-Canadian study on the causes and impacts of, and 
     mitigation options for, flooding in the Lake Champlain-
     Richelieu River watershed.
       Transboundary Watershed Management.--The agreement includes 
     funds above the prior fiscal year for the IJC, in 
     collaboration with the U.S. interagency working group led by 
     the Office of Canadian Affairs, to address gaps and 
     limitations in transboundary governance between British 
     Columbia and bordering U.S. states, including Alaska, 
     Washington, Idaho, and Montana.


                  INTERNATIONAL FISHERIES COMMISSIONS

       The agreement includes $65,719,000 for International 
     Fisheries Commissions. Such funds are allocated according to 
     the following table:

                   INTERNATIONAL FISHERIES COMMISSIONS
               (Budget authority in thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Budget
                   Commission/Activity                       Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Great Lakes Fishery Commission..........................          50,000
  Lake Champlain and Lake Memphremagog Basins...........          10,000
  Grass Carp............................................           1,000
  Lake Memphremagog Fishery.............................             500
Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission.................           1,750
Pacific Salmon Commission...............................           5,868
International Pacific Halibut Commission................           4,582
Other Marine Conservation Organizations.................           3,519
                                                         ---------------
    Total...............................................          65,719
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       The agreement includes $50,000,000 for the Great Lakes 
     Fishery Commission (GLFC) for operations and programs, 
     including funds for the Commission to address risks to its 
     programs, fund its infrastructure strategy, implement its 
     invasive sea lamprey control, conduct research to aid cross-
     border fishery management, and manage grass carp control in 
     the Great Lakes. The agreement also supports the efforts of 
     the GLFC to combat other invasive carp species in the Great 
     Lakes Basin.

                             RELATED AGENCY

                 United States Agency for Global Media


                 INTERNATIONAL BROADCASTING OPERATIONS

       The agreement includes $875,000,000 for International 
     Broadcasting Operations, of which $43,750,000 may remain 
     available until September 30, 2024.
       Funds under this heading are allocated according to the 
     following table and are subject to sections 7015 and 7062 of 
     the Act:

                  INTERNATIONAL BROADCASTING OPERATIONS
               (Budget authority in thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Budget
                    Entities/Grantees                        Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Federal Entities
  International Broadcasting Bureau.....................          55,508
  Office of Cuba Broadcasting...........................          12,973
  Office of Technology, Services, and Innovation........         182,851
  Voice of America......................................         267,476
                                                         ---------------
  Subtotal..............................................         518,808
Independent Grantee Organizations
  Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty.......................         146,602
  Radio Free Asia.......................................          63,000
  Middle East Broadcasting Networks.....................         106,590
  Open Technology Fund..................................          40,000
                                                         ---------------
  Subtotal..............................................         356,192
                                                         ---------------

[[Page S9289]]

 
    Total...............................................         875,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Data and Communication Security.--Not later than 90 days 
     after the date of enactment of the Act, the USAGM Chief 
     Executive Officer (CEO) and the heads of the independent 
     grantee organizations shall submit a joint report to the 
     Committees on Appropriations on a strategy to improve the 
     cyber resilience of the agency's IT systems.
       Language Service Review.--Not later than 60 days after the 
     date of enactment of the Act, the USAGM CEO shall submit a 
     report to the appropriate congressional committees detailing 
     the process and outcome of the 2022 Language Service Review, 
     including assessments and cost-benefit analyses for 
     establishing new language services directed in the House 
     report under the headings Mongolia and Pacific Islands, and 
     the planned timing and focus of the 2023 Language Service 
     Review.


                   BROADCASTING CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS

       The agreement includes $9,700,000 for Broadcasting Capital 
     Improvements.

                            RELATED PROGRAMS

                          The Asia Foundation

       The agreement includes $22,000,000 for The Asia Foundation.

                    United States Institute of Peace

       The agreement includes $55,000,000 for United States 
     Institute of Peace.

         Center for Middle Eastern-Western Dialogue Trust Fund

       The agreement provides $177,000 from interest and earnings 
     from the Center for Middle Eastern-Western Dialogue Trust 
     Fund.
       The Center shall continue efforts to leverage existing 
     funds to secure contributions from private and other public 
     sources to the maximum extent practicable. The agreement 
     supports Department of State oversight of the annual grant to 
     the Center; however, the Secretary of State shall not require 
     prior approval of program participants.

                 Eisenhower Exchange Fellowship Program

       The agreement includes $175,000 from interest and earnings 
     from the Eisenhower Exchange Fellowship Program Trust Fund.

                   Israeli Arab Scholarship Pprogram

       The agreement includes $91,000 from interest and earnings 
     from the Israeli Arab Scholarship Endowment Fund.

                            East-West Center

       The agreement includes $22,000,000 for East-West Center. 
     Funds are provided above the prior fiscal year to expand 
     programs and activities, particularly in PICs.

                    National Endowment for Democracy

       The agreement includes $315,000,000 for National Endowment 
     for Democracy, of which $205,632,000 shall be allocated in 
     the traditional and customary manner, including for the core 
     institutes, and $109,368,000 for democracy programs.

                           OTHER COMMISSIONS

      Commission for the Preservation of America's Heritage Abroad


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement includes $819,000 for Commission for the 
     Preservation of America's Heritage Abroad.

      United States Commission on International Religious Freedom


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement includes $3,500,000 for United States 
     Commission on International Religious Freedom as reauthorized 
     in the United States Commission on International Religious 
     Freedom Reauthorization Act of 2022 (Public Law 117-181). The 
     Commission shall regularly monitor, report on, and advocate 
     against laws and policies of foreign countries that permit or 
     condone violations of human rights of minority groups and 
     other vulnerable communities on the basis of religion.

            Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement includes $2,908,000 for Commission on 
     Security and Cooperation in Europe.

  Congressional-Executive Commission on the People's Republic of China


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement includes $2,300,000 for Congressional-
     Executive Commission on the People's Republic of China.

      United States-China Economic and Security Review Commission


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement includes $4,000,000 for United States-China 
     Economic and Security Review Commission.

                                TITLE II

           UNITED STATES AGENCY FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

                  Funds Appropriated to the President


                           OPERATING EXPENSES

       The agreement includes $1,743,350,000 for Operating 
     Expenses in this division, of which $261,503,000 may remain 
     available until September 30, 2024. In addition, $5,000,000 
     is included under this heading in division M of the Act. 
     Funds under this heading are allocated according to the 
     following table and subject to sections 7015 and 7062 of the 
     Act:

                           OPERATING EXPENSES
               [Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Budget
                    Program/Activity                         Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Overseas Operations.....................................         821,194
Washington Support......................................         564,771
Central Support.........................................         407,855
Global Development Partnership Initiative...............         111,500
  Total, Operating Expenses.............................       1,905,320
    of which, fiscal year 2023 appropriations...........       1,743,350
    of which, carryover and other sources...............         161,970
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Diversity and Inclusion.--The agreement includes funding to 
     support diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility 
     initiatives at USAID, including fellowships to promote 
     diversity in the Foreign Service. Not later than 90 days 
     after the date of enactment of the Act, the Administrator 
     shall submit a report to the appropriate congressional 
     committees on implementation of current workforce diversity 
     activities, including benchmarks for ensuring accountability 
     and progress on these initiatives.

 Localization.--Not later than 45 days after the date of enactment of 
  the Act, the USAID Administrator shall submit to the Committees on 
   Appropriations, and post on the USAID website, a copy of USAID's 
policies and procedures for rewarding agency personnel who demonstrate 
 the skills and commitment to building lasting partnerships with local 
 government officials and community leaders to implement programs that 
encourage and support local initiative and local ownership, including, 
        but not limited to, Centroamerica Local and Local Works.

       Personnel.--The agreement includes funding to support the 
     Global Development Partnership Initiative, USAID's multi-year 
     workforce expansion initiative.
       Staff Care and Resilience.--The agreement provides funds to 
     enhance staff care and resilience programs at USAID. Not 
     later than 120 days after the date of enactment of the Act, 
     the USAID Administrator shall update the report required 
     under this heading in the explanatory statement accompanying 
     division K of Public Law 117-103.
       Staffing Report.--Not later than 60 days after the date of 
     enactment of the Act, and every quarter thereafter until 
     September 30, 2023, the USAID Administrator shall submit a 
     report to the Committees on Appropriations on the on-board 
     personnel levels, hiring, and attrition of the Civil Service, 
     Foreign Service, and Foreign Service National workforce of 
     USAID, on an operating unit-by-operating unit basis.
       Volunteers.--The USAID Administrator shall implement an 
     agency-wide policy that attributes additional merit to 
     proposals and applications that include the use of skilled 
     U.S. and local volunteers, including, as appropriate, the use 
     of the Peace Corps Response volunteers and U.S. Government 
     retirees, to implement locally-driven development activities. 
     Not later than 45 days after the date of enactment of the 
     Act, such policy shall be posted on the USAID website and 
     submitted to the Committees on Appropriations.


                        CAPITAL INVESTMENT FUND

       The agreement includes $259,100,000 for Capital Investment 
     Fund.


                      OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL

       The agreement includes $80,500,000 for Office of Inspector 
     General in this division, of which $12,075,000 may remain 
     available until September 30, 2024. In addition, $8,000,000 
     is included under this heading in division M of the Act.

                               TITLE III

                     BILATERAL ECONOMIC ASSISTANCE

                  Funds Appropriated to the President


                         GLOBAL HEALTH PROGRAMS

       The agreement includes $10,560,950,000 for Global Health 
     Programs. Funds under this heading are allocated according to 
     the following table and subject to section 7019 of the Act:

                         GLOBAL HEALTH PROGRAMS
               (Budget authority in thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Budget
                    Program/Activity                         Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maternal and Child Health...............................         910,000
  Polio.................................................          85,000
  The GAVI Alliance.....................................         290,000
  Maternal and Neonatal Tetanus.........................           2,000
Nutrition (USAID).......................................         160,000
  Iodine Deficiency Disorder............................           3,000
  Micronutrients........................................          33,000
  of which, Vitamin A...................................        [22,500]
Vulnerable Children (USAID).............................          30,000
  Blind Children........................................           4,500
HIV/AIDS (USAID)........................................         330,000
  Microbicides..........................................          45,000
HIV/AIDS (Department of State)..........................       6,395,000
  The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and             2,000,000
   Malaria..............................................
  UNAIDS................................................          50,000
Family Planning/Reproductive Health (USAID).............         523,950
Global Health Security..................................         900,000
  Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations.......         100,000
Malaria.................................................         795,000
Tuberculosis............................................         394,500
  Global TB Drug Facility...............................          15,000
Other Public Health Threats.............................         122,500
  Neglected Tropical Diseases...........................         114,500
                                                         ---------------
    Total...............................................      10,560,900
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Child Wasting.--Not later than 60 days after the date of 
     enactment of the Act, the USAID Administrator shall consult 
     with the Committees on Appropriations on efforts to scale-up 
     USAID procurement of Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) for 
     nutrition programming funded under this heading and under 
     International Disaster Assistance, including the procurement 
     of American-made RUTF.

[[Page S9290]]

       Frontline Health Workers.--The agreement includes funds to 
     increase USAID activities to: (1) support frontline health 
     workers, including those in conflict settings; (2) expand and 
     diversify the global health workforce; (3) increase 
     leadership opportunities for women; and (4) increase 
     investments in digital technologies for health, including 
     using digital systems to improve access to primary healthcare 
     services. Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment 
     of the Act, the USAID Administrator shall consult with the 
     Committees on Appropriations on efforts to track funding for, 
     and measure progress on, such activities in a consistent and 
     standardized way.
       Health Reserve Fund.--The agreement includes up to 
     $8,000,000 of the funds made available for ``Other Public 
     Health Threats'' under this heading for the Health Reserve 
     Fund to support cross-cutting health activities, including 
     health service delivery, the health workforce, health 
     information systems, access to essential medicines, health 
     systems financing, and governance, in challenging 
     environments and countries in crisis. The USAID Administrator 
     shall consult with the Committees on Appropriations on the 
     uses of such funds.
       HIV-Positive Pregnant Women.--The U.S. Global AIDS 
     Coordinator is encouraged to prioritize treatment for HIV-
     positive pregnant women to prevent mother-to-child 
     transmission. Not later than 120 days after the date of 
     enactment of the Act, the Coordinator shall submit a report 
     to the Committees on Appropriations on services provided to 
     HIV-positive women during pregnancy, labor and delivery, and 
     the 12 months following delivery, including diagnosis and 
     treatment services, to ensure mother and child have access to 
     treatment.
       HIV, TB, and Malaria Report.--Not later than 90 days after 
     the date of enactment of the Act, the USAID Administrator and 
     the U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator shall submit a report to the 
     Committees on Appropriations detailing the approximate number 
     of treatments provided for HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and 
     malaria, disaggregated by disease, as a result of U.S. 
     Government assistance in fiscal years 2020 and 2021. Such 
     report shall include detail on funds expended to achieve such 
     outcomes.
       Leprosy.--The USAID Administrator is encouraged to support 
     research and development of a vaccine to protect against 
     nerve damage resulting from leprosy.
       Maternal and Child Health Report.--Not later than 90 days 
     after the date of enactment of the Act, the USAID 
     Administrator shall submit a report to the Committees on 
     Appropriations on the following outcomes achieved during the 
     previous fiscal year, disaggregated by country: (1) the 
     approximate number of treatments provided to children for 
     pneumonia and diarrhea, reported separately, as a result of 
     U.S. Government assistance; and (2) the approximate number of 
     mothers and infants who received postnatal care within two 
     days of childbirth as a result of such assistance. Such 
     report shall include detail on funds expended to achieve such 
     outcomes.
       Multilateral Vaccine Development.--The agreement includes 
     $100,000,000 for a United States contribution to the 
     Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations, pursuant to 
     section 6501 of the National Defense Authorization Act for 
     Fiscal Year 2022 (Public Law 117-81). Not later than 90 days 
     after the date of enactment of the Act, the USAID 
     Administrator shall consult with the Committees on 
     Appropriations on such contribution.
       Research and Development.--Not later than 60 days after the 
     date of enactment of the Act, the USAID Administrator shall 
     update the report required under this heading in Senate 
     Report 116--126. Such report shall also include detail on 
     USAID's research and development of antibiotics.
       Vaccines.--The agreement supports continued efforts at not 
     less than the prior fiscal year to create effective vaccines 
     for malaria and HIV/AIDS and to undertake vaccine development 
     efforts to prevent and respond to infectious disease 
     outbreaks.
       Vulnerable Children.--The agreement supports funding to 
     coordinate assistance for orphans and vulnerable children and 
     to implement the United States Government Strategy on 
     Advancing Protection and Care for Children in Adversity 
     (APCCA). The annual report required by the Assistance for 
     Orphans and Other Vulnerable Children in Developing Countries 
     Act of 2005 (Public Law 109-95) shall include the amounts 
     invested for each objective of the APCCA in the prior fiscal 
     year.
       Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of the 
     Act, the USAID Administrator and the Secretary of State shall 
     jointly submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations 
     on: (1) the amount of funding provided under development and 
     humanitarian assistance accounts for mental health and 
     psychosocial support programming in the prior fiscal year; 
     and (2) how USAID and the Department of State are working to 
     integrate mental health and psychosocial programming, 
     including child-specific programming, into their development 
     and humanitarian assistance programs.


                         DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE

       The agreement includes $4,368,613,000 for Development 
     Assistance. Funds for certain countries and programs under 
     this heading are allocated according to the following table 
     and subject to section 7019 of the Act:

                         DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE
               (Budget authority in thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Budget
                     Country/Program                         Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                 Africa
 
Counter-Lord's Resistance Army/Illicit Armed Groups               10,000
 Program................................................
Democratic Republic of the Congo........................          95,000
Ghana...................................................          64,100
Liberia.................................................          71,500
Malawi..................................................          65,500
  Higher education programs.............................          10,000
Mozambique..............................................          73,500
Somalia55,000...........................................
The Gambia democracy programs...........................           2,000
Power Africa............................................         100,000
Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI).................          20,000
 
                        East Asia and the Pacific
 
Cambodia................................................          58,000
  Youth empowerment and countering PRC influence........           5,000
  Democracy programs....................................          23,000
Greater Mekong rule of law and environment..............           7,000
Mongolia................................................           7,000
Thailand................................................           7,000
Timor-Leste.............................................          16,000
 
                      Middle East and North Africa
 
USAID Middle East Regional
  Refugee Scholarships Program in Lebanon...............          10,000
 
                         South and Central Asia
 
Bangladesh
  Labor programs........................................           3,000
Maldives................................................           6,000
 
                           Western Hemisphere
 
Haiti
  Reforestation.........................................           8,500
 
                             Global Programs
 
Bureau for Resilience and Food Security
  Feed the Future Innovation Labs.......................          62,000
  Global Crop Diversity Trust...........................           5,500
Combating child marriage................................          20,000
Development Innovation Ventures.........................          40,000
Disability Programs.....................................          20,000
Leahy War Victims Fund..................................          15,000
Low Cost Eyeglasses.....................................           5,000
Market-Based Social Enterprises.........................           3,000
Mobility Program........................................           3,000
Ocean Freight Reimbursement Program.....................           2,500
Office of Education.....................................          35,000
Trade Capacity Building.................................          20,000
USAID Advisor for Indigenous Peoples' Issues............           5,700
Victims of Torture......................................          12,000
Wheelchairs.............................................           5,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Advisor for Indigenous Peoples' Issues.--The agreement 
     includes $500,000 under title II of the Act for 
     administrative and other related expenses, and $5,700,000 
     under this heading for program costs, personnel, and other 
     administrative expenses for USAID's Advisor for Indigenous 
     Peoples' Issues, consistent with the directives under this 
     heading in the explanatory statement accompanying division K 
     of Public Law 117-103.
       Clean Cookstoves.--The Department of State and USAID, in 
     partnership with other Federal agencies, shall continue to 
     help address the health and safety issues associated with 
     traditional cookstoves, including by distributing clean 
     cookstoves that sustainably reduce fuel consumption and 
     exposure to harmful smoke.
       Digital Risk Impact Assessments.--The agreement supports 
     USAID's Digital Ecosystem Country Assessment initiative, 
     which identifies development opportunities and risks in 
     digital connectivity and infrastructure; digital society, 
     rights, and governance; and digital economy, and provides 
     additional funds for USAID to complete such an assessment for 
     each bilateral mission.
       Faith-Based Organizations.--The Secretary of State and 
     USAID Administrator shall continue to use the faith sector, 
     in conjunction with the public and private sectors, for the 
     delivery of assistance in developing countries.
       Leahy War Victims Fund.--The agreement includes funds for 
     the Leahy War Victims Fund (LWVF), which assists people with 
     severe disabilities as a result of armed conflict. Not later 
     than 90 days after the date of enactment of the Act, the 
     USAID Administrator shall submit a report to the Committees 
     on Appropriations detailing: (1) the amount and purposes of 
     LWVF funds made available, by country, in fiscal years 2020, 
     2021, and 2022, and the amount expected to be made available, 
     by country, in fiscal year 2023; and (2) the implementing 
     partners in each country.
       Low Cost Eyeglasses.--The agreement includes funds for 
     USAID's program to support sustainable, locally owned 
     initiatives that provide needy children and adults with poor 
     vision access to low cost eyeglasses. Not later than 90 days 
     after the date of enactment of the Act, the USAID 
     Administrator shall consult with the Committees on 
     Appropriations on the planned uses of such funds and on the 
     implementation of USAID's multiyear strategy to support: (1) 
     government led and implemented expansion of access to 
     eyeglasses within public health and education systems; and 
     (2) growing the number of for-profit optical businesses that 
     serve low-income customers.
       Wheelchairs.--The agreement includes funds for USAID's 
     Wheelchair Program to improve the availability of, and access 
     to, appropriate wheelchairs in low- and middle-income 
     countries, including to support international coordination 
     and professionalization of the wheelchair sector to ensure 
     services and product standards are developed and promoted 
     globally. Broader efforts to increase global access to 
     assistive technology contribute to improved access to 
     wheelchairs, and these funds may be used to promote such 
     efforts. The USAID Administrator shall consult with the 
     Committees on Appropriations prior to the initial obligation 
     of funds for such purposes.
       Youth Report.--The agreement endorses the reporting 
     requirement under the heading

[[Page S9291]]

     Tracking of Funding for Children and Youth in the House 
     report. The USAID Administrator shall consult with the 
     Committees on Appropriations on such report prior to its 
     submission, including data collected on programs to ensure 
     all age groups are benefitting proportionately, particularly 
     infants and children under school age. The USAID 
     Administrator should work with partner countries to 
     prioritize the needs of such age group.


                   INTERNATIONAL DISASTER ASSISTANCE

       The agreement includes $3,905,460,000 for International 
     Disaster Assistance in this division. In addition, 
     $937,902,000 is included under this heading in division M of 
     the Act.


                         TRANSITION INITIATIVES

       The agreement includes $80,000,000 for Transition 
     Initiatives in this division. In addition, $50,000,000 is 
     included under this heading in division M of the Act.


                          COMPLEX CRISES FUND

       The agreement includes $60,000,000 for Complex Crises Fund.


                         ECONOMIC SUPPORT FUND

       The agreement includes $4,301,301,000 for Economic Support 
     Fund in this division. In addition, $12,966,500,000 is 
     included under this heading in division M of the Act. Funds 
     for certain countries and programs under this heading are 
     allocated according to the following table and subject to 
     section 7019 of the Act:

                          ECONOMIC SUPPORT FUND
               (Budget authority in thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Budget
                     Country/Program                         Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                 Africa
 
West Africa anti-slavery programs.......................           2,000
 
                        East Asia and the Pacific
 
Association of Southeast Asian Nations partnership                22,500
 programs...............................................
Burma...................................................          50,000
Thailand................................................           7,000
 
                      Middle East and North Africa
 
Iraq....................................................         150,000
  Scholarships..........................................          10,000
  Democracy.............................................          25,000
  Justice sector assistance.............................           2,500
Lebanon.................................................         112,500
  Lebanon scholarships..................................          14,000
Middle East Partnership Initiative......................          27,200
  Scholarship program...................................          20,000
Middle East Regional Cooperation........................           8,000
Near East Regional Democracy............................          55,000
Nita M. Lowey Middle East Partnership for Peace Act.....          50,000
West Bank and Gaza......................................         225,000
 
  South and Central Asia................................
 
Maldives................................................           3,000
 
                           Western Hemisphere
 
Organization of American States.........................           5,000
 
                             Global Programs
 
Atrocities Prevention...................................           3,000
Bureau for Oceans and International Environment and
 Scientific Affairs.....................................
  Arctic Council........................................           1,000
Conflict and Stabilization Operations...................           5,000
Family Planning/Reproductive Health (USAID).............          51,050
House Democracy Partnership.............................           2,300
Implementation of Public Law 99-415.....................           4,000
Information Communications Technology Training..........           1,000
Small Island Developing States..........................          50,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Domestic Resource Mobilization.--USAID shall continue to 
     encourage partner countries to increase their investments in 
     health, education, and other development sectors by 
     strengthening revenue generation and budgetary capacity, 
     reducing losses from corruption and graft, and countering tax 
     avoidance.
       Middle East Partnership Initiative Availability and 
     Consultation Requirement.--The agreement includes funds 
     appropriated under title III of the Act, which shall be made 
     available for assistance for the Western Sahara. Not later 
     than 90 days after the date of enactment of the Act and prior 
     to the obligation of such funds, the Secretary of State, in 
     consultation with the USAID Administrator, shall consult with 
     the Committees on Appropriations on the proposed uses of such 
     funds.
       Office of Global Women's Issues.--The agreement includes 
     funds above the prior fiscal year for the Office of Global 
     Women's Issues. The Secretary of State and the Ambassador-at-
     Large for Global Women's Issues shall consult with the 
     Committees on Appropriations on the proposed uses of funds 
     made available for such office.
       Small Island Developing States.--The agreement includes 
     funds for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in addition 
     to funds specifically designated for the Caribbean and PICs 
     in the Act and this explanatory statement, which should not 
     be limited to use in the Caribbean and PICs. Such funds shall 
     be used to help respond to the complex challenges facing 
     SIDS, particularly those that rely on external financing to 
     help prepare for, and recover from, climate-related disasters 
     and to manage growing debt burdens. The Secretary of State 
     and USAID Administrator shall jointly consult with the 
     Committees on Appropriations on the allocation of such funds 
     prior to the submission of the 653(a) report.


                             DEMOCRACY FUND

       The agreement includes $355,700,000 for Democracy Fund, of 
     which $222,450,000 is for the Department of State's Bureau of 
     Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor, and $133,250,000 is for 
     USAID's Bureau for Development, Democracy, and Innovation.
       The agreement includes funds for the directives included in 
     the table under this heading in the House report.
       Annual Country Human Rights Report.--In lieu of the 
     directives on the annual country human rights reports in the 
     House report, the Secretary of State shall consult with the 
     Committees on Appropriations on such report.
       Human Rights.--In lieu of the directive in the House report 
     under this heading, the Secretary of State, in consultation 
     with the USAID Administrator, should submit a report to the 
     Committees on Appropriations, not later than 60 days after 
     the date of enactment of the Act, on the activities of 
     special envoys with responsibilities for issues of concern to 
     marginalized populations.


            ASSISTANCE FOR EUROPE, EURASIA AND CENTRAL ASIA

       The agreement includes $500,334,000 for Assistance for 
     Europe, Eurasia and Central Asia in this division. In 
     addition, $350,000,000 is included under this heading in 
     division M of the Act.

                          Department of State


                    MIGRATION AND REFUGEE ASSISTANCE

       The agreement includes $2,912,188,000 for Migration and 
     Refugee Assistance in this division. In addition, 
     $1,535,048,000 is included under this heading in division M 
     of the Act.
       Donor Contributions.--Not later than 90 days after the date 
     of enactment of the Act, the Secretary of State shall report 
     to the Committees on Appropriations on steps taken by the 
     Department of State to encourage increased contributions, 
     including by the Gulf countries, to international 
     humanitarian assistance appeals, including for food 
     assistance managed by the World Food Programme. The report 
     should include the level of funding pledged and provided to 
     appeals for such assistance from international organizations 
     by each of the Gulf countries in fiscal years 2021 and 2022.
       Older People.--Not later than 120 days after the date of 
     enactment of the Act, the Secretary of State and USAID 
     Administrator shall brief the Committees on Appropriations on 
     the inclusion of older people as beneficiaries of 
     humanitarian, evacuation, resettlement, and recovery efforts, 
     including the relevant policies and reporting mechanisms in 
     place to ensure such inclusion.
       People's Republic of China Special Economic Zones.--The 
     Secretary of State should review the protection and 
     assistance needs of migrants and others who have fallen prey 
     to human trafficking associated with cyber and financial 
     crimes, including victims of crimes committed by PRC criminal 
     syndicates within Special Economic Zones in Burma, Laos, and 
     Cambodia.
       Refugee Employment.--The Secretary of State shall expand 
     efforts, utilizing existing organizations and mechanisms, to 
     assist refugees and other displaced persons in becoming self-
     reliant through labor mobility, as a complementary solution 
     for refugees in addition to resettlement. The Secretary 
     should also assess and consider refugees' skills as a factor 
     in assigning refugees to resettlement locations within the 
     United States in order to facilitate their success and to 
     meet the needs of United States businesses by helping to fill 
     skill gaps and provide needed talent for economic growth. Not 
     later than 60 days after the date of enactment of the Act, 
     the Secretary shall report to the Committees on 
     Appropriations on steps being taken in response to this 
     directive.
       Rohingya Refugees.--The agreement includes funds to 
     continue necessary support for Rohingya refugees in Cox's 
     Bazar and other parts of Bangladesh, as well as those in 
     other countries in the region. The Secretary of State is 
     directed to work with neighboring countries to ensure safe 
     transit and full access to refugees from Burma.
       Unaccompanied Refugee Minors.--Funds provided under this 
     heading should support the resettlement of eligible 
     unaccompanied refugee minors who have been referred by the UN 
     High Commissioner for Refugees and NGOs.
       United States Refugee Admissions Program.--Not later than 
     90 days after the date of enactment of the Act, the Secretary 
     of State shall submit a report on the United States Refugee 
     Admissions Program (USRAP) to the appropriate congressional 
     committees. Such report shall include: (1) for each fiscal 
     year 2019 through 2022, the average duration of each step of 
     the refugee screening process; the number of interviews, 
     approvals, and denials of refugee applications; and the 
     number of cases placed on hold or that are pending; (2) for 
     the current fiscal year, the number of refugees in the USRAP 
     pipeline, disaggregated by status; (3) the total number of 
     Afghan nationals referred to the USRAP, disaggregated by P1, 
     P2, P3, and I-730; the total number of Afghan SIV applicants; 
     and the number of Afghan nationals with pending Humanitarian 
     Parole applications; and (4) the number of Iraqi Priority 2 
     Direct Access Program adjudications since the resumption of 
     the program on March 1, 2022.
       The Secretary of State shall also update the report 
     required under this heading in Senate Report 115-282 in the 
     manner described.


     UNITED STATES EMERGENCY REFUGEE AND MIGRATION ASSISTANCE FUND

       The agreement includes $100,000 for United States Emergency 
     Refugee and Migration Assistance Fund.

                          Independent Agencies


                              PEACE CORPS

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The agreement includes $430,500,000 for Peace Corps, of 
     which $7,300,000 is for the Office of Inspector General.
       Prioritization.--The agreement endorses language in the 
     House report regarding the prioritization of opening programs 
     in PICs, including in countries where the Peace Corps 
     terminated such programs, such as in Palau.

[[Page S9292]]

  



                    MILLENNIUM CHALLENGE CORPORATION

       The agreement includes $930,000,000 for Millennium 
     Challenge Corporation, including up to $130,000,000 for 
     administrative expenses.
       Supporting Economic Growth.--The Millennium Challenge 
     Corporation should continue trade-based capacity building 
     efforts in support of the AGOA and MCA Modernization Act 
     (Public Law 115-167) and collaborate with other agencies to 
     address the existing barriers that sub-Saharan African 
     nations face in the development of free trade agreements.


                       INTER-AMERICAN FOUNDATION

       The agreement includes $47,000,000 for Inter-American 
     Foundation. The agreement includes sufficient funds to 
     support the exchange program described under this heading in 
     the House report.


              UNITED STATES AFRICAN DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION

       The agreement includes $45,000,000 for United States 
     African Development Foundation. The agreement includes 
     sufficient funds to support partnerships between the United 
     States African Development Foundation and African diaspora 
     communities in the United States that further African-led 
     development projects, as described under this heading in the 
     House report.
       The operating plan required by section 7062(a) of the Act 
     shall include current and projected staffing levels, as well 
     as the use of, and rationale for, different hiring 
     authorities, including for U.S. direct hires and contractors.

                       Department of the Treasury


               INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE

       The agreement includes $38,000,000 for International 
     Affairs Technical Assistance, of which not more than 
     $9,500,000 is for administrative expenses.


                           DEBT RESTRUCTURING

       The agreement includes $52,000,000 for Debt Restructuring 
     to support multilateral debt restructurings, including Paris 
     Club debt restructurings and the Common Framework on Debt 
     Treatments, to provide economic relief to low-income 
     countries.


              TROPICAL FOREST AND CORAL REEF CONSERVATION

       The agreement includes $20,000,000 for Tropical Forest and 
     Coral Reef Conservation. In implementing the Tropical Forest 
     and Coral Reef Conservation Act, the Department of the 
     Treasury should seek to negotiate agreements with eligible 
     partners in the most expeditious manner possible.

                                TITLE IV

                   INTERNATIONAL SECURITY ASSISTANCE

                          Department of State


          INTERNATIONAL NARCOTICS CONTROL AND LAW ENFORCEMENT

       The agreement includes $1,391,004,000 for International 
     Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement in this division. In 
     addition, $300,000,000 is included under this heading in 
     division M of the Act. Funds for certain countries, programs, 
     and activities under this heading are allocated according to 
     the following table and subject to section 7019 of the Act:

           INTERNATIONAL NARCOTICS CONTROL AND LAW ENFORCEMENT
               (Budget authority in thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Budget
                Country/Program/Activity                     Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Association of Southeast Asian Nations partnership                 2,500
 programs...............................................
Atrocities Prevention...................................           3,000
Combating Wildlife Trafficking..........................          50,000
Cybercrime and Intellectual Property Rights.............          20,000
Demand Reduction........................................          20,000
Democratic Republic of the Congo........................  ..............
  Virunga National Park security........................           2,000
Global Crime and Drugs Policy...........................           7,000
International Law Enforcement Academy...................          39,000
International Organized Crime...........................          68,150
Pakistan Border Security................................          15,000
Thailand................................................           2,500
Trafficking in Persons..................................          87,000
  Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons...          76,000
  of which, Child Protection Compacts...................        [12,500]
West Bank and Gaza......................................          42,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Anti-Corruption.--The agreement includes funds under this 
     heading above the prior fiscal year, including to support the 
     Office of the Coordinator on Global Anti-Corruption.
       Environmental Crimes.--The agreement includes not less than 
     the prior fiscal year for programs to combat environmental 
     crimes related to logging. The agreement also recommends the 
     use of additional funds to combat other environmental crimes, 
     including illegal mining.
       Opioids and Other Illicit Drugs.--The agreement endorses 
     language in the House report supporting Department of State 
     efforts to address the flow of illegal opioids into the 
     United States.
       Pacific Islands Countries.--In addition to the guidance in 
     the House report regarding the participation of PICs in 
     International Law Enforcement Academies Bangkok, the 
     Secretary of State should consider establishing other 
     programs to bring officials and civil society representatives 
     from PICs to Southeast Asia to engage on law enforcement 
     issues, including narcotics and human trafficking.
       West Bank.--The agreement includes additional funds to 
     strengthen the Palestinian security sector program for the 
     West Bank under this heading, which shall be the joint 
     responsibility of the Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of 
     International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs and the 
     U.S. Security Coordinator for Israel and the Palestinian 
     Authority. Not later than 45 days after the date of enactment 
     of the Act, the Secretary of State shall consult with the 
     Committees on Appropriations on the intended uses of such 
     funds and on efforts to professionalize Palestinian security 
     forces and to build, maintain, and sustain Palestinian 
     security and justice sector institutions.


    NONPROLIFERATION, ANTI-TERRORISM, DEMINING AND RELATED PROGRAMS

       The agreement includes $921,000,000 for Nonproliferation, 
     Anti-terrorism, Demining and Related Programs in this 
     division. In addition, $105,000,000 is included under this 
     heading in division M of the Act. Funds for certain 
     countries, programs, and activities under this heading are 
     allocated according to the following table and subject to 
     section 7019 of the Act:

     NONPROLIFERATION, ANTI-TERRORISM, DEMINING AND RELATED PROGRAMS
               (Budget authority in thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Budget
                Country/Program/Activity                     Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nonproliferation and Disarmament Fund...................          15,000
International Atomic Energy Agency......................          95,000
Conventional Weapons Destruction........................         264,103
  Humanitarian demining.................................         218,350
  of which, Southeast Asia..............................        [73,000]
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Conventional Weapons Destruction.--Not later than 60 days 
     after the date of enactment of the Act and prior to the 
     submission of the 653(a) report, the Secretary of State shall 
     consult with the Committees on Appropriations on the proposed 
     allocations by country for humanitarian demining.
       Nagorno-Karabakh.--The agreement provides $2,000,000 for 
     humanitarian demining and unexploded ordnance (UXO) clearance 
     activities in areas affected by the Nagorno-Karabakh 
     conflict, subject to prior consultation with the Committees 
     on Appropriations.


                        PEACEKEEPING OPERATIONS

       The agreement includes $460,759,000 for Peacekeeping 
     Operations, of which $330,000,000 may remain available until 
     September 30, 2024. Funds for certain countries, programs, 
     and activities under this heading are allocated according to 
     the following table and subject to section 7019 of the Act:

                         PEACEKEEPING OPERATIONS
               (Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Budget
                Country/Program/Activity                     Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Africa..................................................
  Somalia...............................................         224,800
  Africa Regional.......................................          59,050
Political-Military Affairs..............................
  Global Peace Operations Initiative....................          71,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

                  Funds Appropriated to the President


             INTERNATIONAL MILITARY EDUCATION AND TRAINING

       The agreement includes $112,925,000 for International 
     Military Education and Training.
       International Military Education and Training Database.--
     For purposes of implementing section 548(a) of the FAA, funds 
     in the Act shall be made available to foreign governments, 
     consistent with applicable provisions of law, to assist in 
     the development and maintenance of a record of each 
     International Military Education and Training (IMET) 
     recipient's ``subsequent military or defense ministry career 
     and current position and location,'' including for programs 
     to develop the human resources capabilities necessary to 
     comply with such requirement. The Secretary of State shall 
     require IMET recipient governments to provide such 
     information in a timely manner and shall consult with the 
     Committees on Appropriations on the implementation and impact 
     of such directive on the program not later than 45 days after 
     the date of enactment of the Act.
       Participation of Civilians.--Not later than 90 days after 
     the date of enactment of the Act, the Secretary of State 
     shall submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations 
     detailing the participation of civilians, including officials 
     of relevant foreign government ministries and civil society 
     in IMET courses for fiscal years 2019 through 2023, 
     disaggregated by nationality, government agency, and civil 
     society organization.
       Participation of Women.--Not later than 90 days after the 
     date of enactment of the Act, the Secretary of State shall 
     submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations 
     describing the short- and long-term steps taken to increase 
     female participation in IMET courses, including the results 
     achieved in fiscal year 2022 and activities planned in fiscal 
     year 2023.


                   FOREIGN MILITARY FINANCING PROGRAM

       The agreement includes $6,053,049,000 for Foreign Military 
     Financing Program in this division. In addition, $80,000,000 
     is included under this heading in division M of the Act. 
     Funds under this heading for certain countries are allocated 
     according to the following table and subject to section 7019 
     of the Act:

[[Page S9293]]



                   FOREIGN MILITARY FINANCING PROGRAM
               (Budget authority in thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Budget
                         Country                             Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ecuador.................................................           5,000
Georgia.................................................          35,000
Iraq....................................................         250,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Foreign Military Sales Report.--Not later than 90 days 
     after the date of enactment of the Act, the Secretary of 
     State shall submit a report to the Committees on 
     Appropriations on recommendations for streamlining, 
     expediting, and improving end use monitoring in the foreign 
     military sales process.
       Pakistan.--Funds made available by the Act under this 
     heading may be made available for assistance for Pakistan. 
     The Secretary of State should consult with the Committees on 
     Appropriations prior to making an offer of such assistance to 
     the Government of Pakistan, the purposes of which should 
     serve the security interests of the United States and 
     Pakistan.

                                TITLE V

                        MULTILATERAL ASSISTANCE

                  Funds Appropriated to the President


                International organizations and programs

       The agreement includes $508,600,000 for International 
     Organizations and Programs. Funds under this heading are 
     allocated according to the following table and subject to 
     section 7019 of the Act:

                INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS AND PROGRAMS
               (Budget authority in thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                Budget
                   Organizations/Programs                     Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
International Chemicals and Toxins Programs................        3,175
International Civil Aviation Organization..................        1,200
International Conservation Programs........................        9,000
International Development Law Organization.................          400
International Maritime Organization........................          325
Montreal Protocol Multilateral Fund........................       51,900
Organization of American States Fund for Strengthening             5,000
 Democracy.................................................
Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and                50
 Armed Robbery Against Ships in Asia.......................
UN Capital Development Fund................................        1,000
UN Children's Fund.........................................      142,000
  Joint Program on Eliminating Female Genital Mutilation...        5,000
UN Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf.......          100
UN Democracy Fund..........................................        3,500
UN Development Program.....................................       81,550
UN Environmental Programs..................................       10,200
 UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change/UN Framework        15,000
                Convention on Climate Change
           UN High Commissioner for Human Rights                  17,500
  Honduras.................................................        1,000
  Colombia.................................................        3,000
  Guatemala................................................        1,000
  Mexico...................................................        1,000
UN Human Settlements Program...............................          700
UN Junior Professional Officer Program.....................        2,500
UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.....        3,500
UN Peacebuilding Fund......................................        1,000
UN Relief and Works Agency.................................       75,000
UN Resident Coordinator System.............................       23,000
UN Special Coordinator for UN Response to Sexual                   1,500
 Exploitation and Abuse....................................
UN Special Representative to the Secretary-General (SRSG)          1,750
 on Sexual Violence in Conflict............................
UN Trust Fund to End Violence Against Women................        1,500
UN Voluntary Fund for Technical Cooperation in the Field of        1,150
 Human Rights..............................................
UN Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture...................        9,000
UN Women...................................................       12,000
World Meteorological Organization..........................        1,000
World Trade Organization Technical Assistance..............          600
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Organizations of American States.--The agreement includes 
     $5,000,000 under Economic Support Fund for the Organization 
     of American States for the autonomous promotion and 
     protection of human rights.
       United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA).--The 
     agreement includes funds under this heading, in addition to 
     funds provided under Migration and Refugee Assistance to 
     maintain food assistance to vulnerable Palestinians in the 
     West Bank and Gaza in response to rising food and transport 
     costs.

                  International Financial Institutions


                      GLOBAL ENVIRONMENT FACILITY

       The agreement includes $150,200,000 for Global Environment 
     Facility.


               CONTRIBUTION TO THE CLEAN TECHNOLOGY FUND

       The agreement includes $125,000,000 for Contribution to the 
     Clean Technology Fund.


     CONTRIBUTION TO THE INTERNATIONAL BANK FOR RECONSTRUCTION AND 
                              DEVELOPMENT

       The agreement includes $206,500,000 for Contribution to the 
     International Bank for Reconstruction and Development.


              LIMITATION ON CALLABLE CAPITAL SUBSCRIPTIONS

       The agreement includes $1,421,275,728.70 for Limitation on 
     Callable Capital Subscriptions.


       CONTRIBUTION TO THE INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION

       The agreement includes $1,430,256,000 for Contribution to 
     the International Development Association towards the third 
     of three installments for IDA-19 and for the first of three 
     installments for IDA-20.


               CONTRIBUTION TO THE ASIAN DEVELOPMENT FUND

       The agreement includes $43,610,000 for Contribution to the 
     Asian Development Fund.


              CONTRIBUTION TO THE AFRICAN DEVELOPMENT BANK

       The agreement includes $54,648,752 for Contribution to the 
     African Development Bank.


              LIMITATION ON CALLABLE CAPITAL SUBSCRIPTIONS

       The agreement includes $856,174,624 for Limitation on 
     Callable Capital Subscriptions.


              CONTRIBUTION TO THE AFRICAN DEVELOPMENT FUND

       The agreement includes $171,300,000 for Contribution to the 
     African Development Fund.


  CONTRIBUTION TO THE INTERNATIONAL FUND FOR AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT

       The agreement includes $43,000,000 for Contribution to the 
     International Fund for Agricultural Development.


              GLOBAL AGRICULTURE AND FOOD SECURITY PROGRAM

       The agreement includes $10,000,000 for Global Agriculture 
     and Food Security Program.


 CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE INTERNATIONAL MONETARY FUND FACILITIES AND TRUST 
                                 FUNDS

       The agreement includes $20,000,000 for Contributions to the 
     International Monetary Fund Facilities and Trust Funds.

                                TITLE VI

                    EXPORT AND INVESTMENT ASSISTANCE

                Export-Import Bank of the United States


                           INSPECTOR GENERAL

       The agreement includes $7,500,000 for Inspector General for 
     the Export-Import Bank of the United States, of which 
     $1,125,000 may remain available until September 30, 2024.


                        ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES

       The agreement includes $125,000,000 for Administrative 
     Expenses for the Export-Import Bank of the United States, of 
     which up to $18,750,000 may remain available until September 
     30, 2024.


                     PROGRAM BUDGET APPROPRIATIONS

       The agreement includes $15,000,000 for Program Budget 
     Appropriations.

      United States International Development Finance Corporation


                           INSPECTOR GENERAL

       The agreement includes $5,583,000 for Inspector General for 
     United States International Development Finance Corporation.


                       CORPORATE CAPITAL ACCOUNT

       The agreement includes $1,000,000,000 for Corporate Capital 
     Account, including $220,000,000 for administrative expenses 
     and project-specific transaction costs as described in 
     section 1434(k) of the BUILD Act of 2018 (division F of 
     Public Law 115-254) and $780,000,000 for programs, which may 
     be paid to the United States International Development 
     Finance Corporation (DFC) Program Account.
       Development Mission.--The DFC CEO shall continue to comply 
     with section 1412(c) of the BUILD Act of 2018 by prioritizing 
     support in low- and lower-middle income countries with 
     significant potential for advancing United States development 
     priorities. DFC investments should be complementary to, not a 
     substitute for, other United States foreign assistance 
     programs.
       Digital Surveillance.--Not later than 90 days after the 
     date of enactment of the Act, the DFC CEO shall submit a 
     report to the appropriate congressional committees detailing 
     steps taken to align DFC safeguards on digital surveillance 
     with international best practices.
       Environmental and Social Policies and Procedures.--DFC's 
     use of waivers of its Environmental and Social Policies and 
     Procedures should be limited to compelling circumstances and 
     in furtherance of an important U.S. national interest. The 
     use of such waivers is subject to the regular notification 
     procedures of the Committees on Appropriations. Such 
     notification shall include the justification for the waiver 
     and describe the environmental and social policies and 
     procedures to be applied in lieu of DFC's policies and 
     procedures.
       Operating Plan.--The operating plan required by section 
     7062(a) of the Act shall contain detailed information 
     regarding all funds available to the DFC in the current 
     fiscal year, including: (1) carryover; (2) funds transferred 
     from other Federal agencies; and (3) funds that are not 
     allocated for particular programs, projects, or activities. 
     The DFC shall also specify in the operating plan funds 
     intended to be made available for any overseas presence.
       Pacific Islands Countries.--In addition to the reporting 
     requirement in the House report under the heading Investment 
     in the Pacific Islands and the Caribbean, the DFC CEO shall 
     submit an analysis of any legislative barriers that may 
     hinder DFC efforts to fully engage in PICs and compete 
     against authoritarian influences, including by the PRC, in 
     the Pacific and Caribbean regions.
       Reallocation of Funds.--Notifications submitted for funds 
     made available by the Act under this heading and under 
     Program Account shall include detailed information regarding 
     any such funds that were previously justified for a different 
     purpose.


                            PROGRAM ACCOUNT

       The agreement includes up to $780,000,000 for Program 
     Account transferred from Corporate Capital Account.


                      TRADE AND DEVELOPMENT AGENCY

       The agreement includes $87,000,000 for Trade and 
     Development Agency, including not more than $21,000,000 for 
     administrative expenses.

                               TITLE VII

                           GENERAL PROVISIONS

       The following general provisions are contained in the Act. 
     Each is designated as unchanged, modified, or new as compared 
     to division K of Public Law 117-103:
     Section 7001. Allowances and Differentials (unchanged)
     Section 7002. Unobligated Balances Report (unchanged)
       Report on Unallocated Funds.--Not later than 45 days after 
     the date of enactment of

[[Page S9294]]

     the Act, the Secretary of State shall submit a report to the 
     Committees on Appropriations detailing all funds appropriated 
     in prior Acts under Foreign Military Financing Program, or a 
     predecessor account, that have been obligated into the 
     Foreign Military Sales Trust Fund and are unallocated to a 
     case as of the date of enactment of the Act.
     Section 7003. Consulting Services (unchanged)
     Section 7004. Diplomatic Facilities (modified)
       New Embassy and Consulate Compound Construction.--Not later 
     than 60 days after the date of enactment of the Act, the 
     Director of the Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations shall 
     brief the Committees on Appropriations on efforts to expand 
     opportunities for additional, qualified U.S. companies to 
     participate in Department of State construction projects 
     abroad, including minority-owned companies, and the results 
     of those efforts.
     Section 7005. Personnel Actions (unchanged)
     Section 7006. Prohibition on Publicity or Propaganda 
         (unchanged)
     Section 7007. Prohibition Against Direct Funding for Certain 
         Countries (unchanged)
     Section 7008. Coups d'Etat (modified)
       Modifications.--The agreement provides a new program-by-
     program national security interest waiver of the prohibition 
     on funds for the government of a country whose duly elected 
     head of government is deposed by a coup d'etat. Such waiver 
     is intended to be used to improve consistency and 
     transparency in the application of this section.
     Section 7009. Transfer of Funds Authority (modified)
     Section 7010. Prohibition and Limitation on Certain Expenses 
         (unchanged)
     Section 7011. Availability of Funds (unchanged)
     Section 7012. Limitation on Assistance to Countries in 
         Default (unchanged)
     Section 7013. Prohibition on Taxation of United States 
         Assistance (unchanged)
     Section 7014. Reservations of Funds (unchanged)
     Section 7015. Notification Requirements (modified)
       Funds Received from Foreign Governments.--The Secretary of 
     State and the USAID Administrator, as appropriate, shall 
     report to the Committees on Appropriations within 15 days of 
     the receipt of funds received from foreign governments 
     pursuant to sections 607 and 635(d) of the FAA, other than 
     from countries that are North Atlantic Treaty Organization 
     (NATO) or major non-NATO allies designated pursuant to 
     section 517(b) of such Act. The report shall include the 
     source and the amount of funds received.
       Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment.--
     Subsection (h)(2)(H) requires that funds specifically 
     allocated for the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and 
     Investment (PGII) are subject to the regular notification 
     procedures of the Committees on Appropriations. Such 
     requirement is not intended to apply to funds that are being 
     attributed to PGII and have been justified or designated for 
     other purposes, including to meet other directives in the Act 
     or this explanatory statement.
     Section 7016. Documents, Report Posting, Records Management, 
         and Related Cybersecurity Protections (unchanged)
     Section 7017. Use of Funds in Contravention of this Act 
         (unchanged)
     Section 7018. Prohibition on Funding for Abortions and 
         Involuntary Sterilization (unchanged)
     Section 7019. Allocations and Reports (unchanged)
     Section 7020. Multi-Year Pledges (unchanged)
     Section 7021. Prohibition on Assistance to Governments 
         Supporting International Terrorism (unchanged)
     Section 7022. Authorization Requirements (unchanged)
     Section 7023. Definition of Program, Project, and Activity 
         (unchanged)
     Section 7024. Authorities for the Peace Corps, Inter-American 
         Foundation, and United States African Development 
         Foundation (unchanged)
     Section 7025. Commerce, Trade and Surplus Commodities 
         (unchanged)
     Section 7026. Separate Accounts (unchanged)
     Section 7027. Eligibility for Assistance (unchanged)
     Section 7028. Disability Programs (modified)
       Children.--The Secretary of State and USAID Administrator 
     shall increase funding for programs implemented by the UN 
     Children's Fund and its partners to protect the rights of, 
     and increase access to services and opportunities for, 
     children with severe cognitive and physical disabilities in 
     developing countries.
       Disability Programs.--Funds made available for ``Disability 
     Programs'' under Development Assistance shall be made 
     available for USAID disability programs, including to support 
     disability rights advocacy organizations in developing 
     countries, and shall be in addition to funds otherwise 
     directed, including for assistive technology and the Leahy 
     War Victims Fund.
     Section 7029. International Financial Institutions (modified)
       Accountability, Standards, and Best Practices.--The 
     Secretary of the Treasury shall instruct the United States 
     Executive Director of each international financial 
     institution to use the voice and vote of the United States to 
     promote the prioritization of the use of local labor and 
     trade-off standards that determine best value bids, rather 
     than lowest-price technically acceptable, including with 
     State-owned companies and enterprises.
       Human Rights.--The United States executive director of each 
     international financial institution (IFI) shall consult with 
     the Assistant Secretary for DRL prior to voting on a loan, 
     grant, policy, or strategy if the executive director has 
     reason to believe it could result in, or facilitate, forced 
     displacement or other violations of human rights.
       Implementation Report.--In lieu of the reports required 
     under this section in prior Acts and in the House report, not 
     later than 180 days after the date of enactment of the Act 
     and every 180 days thereafter until September 30, 2024, the 
     Secretary of the Treasury shall submit a consolidated report 
     to the appropriate congressional committees detailing the 
     actions taken by the United States executive directors of the 
     international financial institutions to implement subsections 
     (a), (b), (d), (e), (f), (g), and (h) of this section.
       Such report shall include a description of the extent to 
     which the United States executive directors consult with the 
     Department of State on the implementation of such 
     subsections, including instructions given to such executive 
     directors, and how assessments of corruption are incorporated 
     into United States voting practices at the international 
     financial institutions.
     Section 7030. Technology Security (modified)
       Pursuant to subsection (b)(1), the agreement allocates 
     $100,000,000 made available by the CHIPS Act of 2022 (Public 
     Law 117-167) for the Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce 
     Semiconductors (CHIPS) for America International Technology 
     Security and Innovation Fund according to the following table 
     for fiscal year 2023:

 CHIPS FOR AMERICA INTERNATIONAL TECHNOLOGY SECURITY AND INNOVATION FUND
               (Budget authority in thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Budget
                         Account                             Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Diplomatic Programs.....................................          15,800
of which, salaries and expenses and administration......          34,500
Office of Inspector General.............................             500
Economic Support Fund...................................          66,700
Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and Related            17,000
 Programs...............................................
                                                         ---------------
    Total...............................................         100,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Digital Connectivity and Cybersecurity Partnership.--The 
     agreement includes funding above the prior fiscal year for 
     the Digital Connectivity and Cybersecurity Partnership and 
     encourages relevant Federal agencies, including the United 
     States Trade and Development Agency (USTDA), to further 
     collaborate with other agencies on policy and technical 
     training to promote open, interoperable, reliable, and secure 
     networks, including through programs to strengthen civilian 
     cybersecurity capabilities of United States allies and 
     partners.
       Strategy Requirement.--Not later than 90 days after the 
     date of enactment of the Act, the Secretary of State shall 
     submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations 
     describing the steps taken to implement the strategy required 
     under this section in the explanatory statement accompanying 
     division K of Public Law 116-260.
     Section 7031. Financial Management, Budget Transparency, and 
         Anti-Corruption (modified)
       Anti-Kleptocracy and Human Rights.--For purposes of 
     subsection (c)(1)(B), ``as appropriate'' means circumstances 
     when the individual about whom there is credible information 
     under subsection (c)(1)(A) may own property or have other 
     pecuniary interests in the United States or may seek to 
     engage in financial transactions in the United States.
       Corruption.--Not later than 90 days after the date of 
     enactment of the Act, the Secretary of State shall consult 
     with the Committees on Appropriations on the standards 
     established to implement the condition in subsection 
     (a)(1)(B).
       Specific Cases.--The Secretary of State shall apply 
     subsection (c) to foreign government officials involved in 
     threatening, unjustly or wrongfully imprisoning, or otherwise 
     depriving of liberty independent journalists who speak out or 
     publish about corruption or other abuses.
       Waiver.--The Secretary of State shall submit a written 
     notification to the appropriate congressional committees and 
     the Committees on the Judiciary of the Senate and House of 
     Representatives not less than 5 days prior to exercising the 
     waiver authority in subsection (c)(3), including the 
     justification for each waiver.
     Section 7032. Democracy Programs (modified)
       The agreement includes a total of $2,900,000,000 for 
     democracy programs under several accounts in a manner similar 
     to the prior fiscal year to strengthen democracy abroad 
     against rising authoritarianism and erosion of the rule of 
     law. Subsection (a)(2) designates not less than $117,040,000 
     for DRL for certain countries and regional programs. Such 
     funds are allocated according to the following table:

[[Page S9295]]



    BUREAU OF DEMOCRACY, HUMAN RIGHTS, AND LABOR, DEPARTMENT OF STATE
               (Budget authority in thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Budget
                     Account/Program                         Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Economic Support Fund
  Afghanistan...........................................           5,000
  Burma.................................................           4,000
  Maldives..............................................             500
  Near East Regional Democracy..........................          15,000
  North Korea...........................................           5,000
  People's Republic of China............................          12,000
  South Sudan...........................................           1,000
  Sri Lanka.............................................           2,000
  Sudan.................................................           1,000
  Syria.................................................          11,000
  Venezuela.............................................          10,000
  Yemen.................................................           3,000
  HRDF..................................................          19,600
  Countering Transnational Regression...................           2,640
  Warsaw Declaration....................................           2,500
Assistance for Europe, Eurasia and Central Asia
  Europe and Eurasia....................................          22,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Democracy Assessment.--Following consultation with the 
     Committees on Appropriations, the Comptroller General of the 
     United States shall conduct an assessment of USAID, DRL, and 
     INL democracy programs funded by prior Acts from fiscal years 
     2018 through 2022, which shall include: (1) the amounts and a 
     summary of the priority areas of such programs, disaggregated 
     by entity and fiscal year; (2) an assessment of the 
     respective and collective efforts of such entities to 
     coordinate democracy assistance programs; (3) an assessment 
     of the respective efforts by such entities to assess results 
     and evaluate the impact of such assistance; and (4) an 
     assessment of the funding obligated by such entities for 
     democracy programs through contracts, grants, and cooperative 
     agreements.
       Democracy Assistance for Africa.--The agreement includes 
     funding above the budget request for democracy assistance for 
     countries in Africa, which are facing increasing threats to 
     stability and development gains.
       Digital Security and Countering Disinformation.--For the 
     purposes of subsection (g), programs to advance digital 
     security and counter disinformation should: (1) address 
     digital security to enhance the safety of implementers and 
     beneficiaries; (2) support civil society organizations 
     working to counter government surveillance, censorship, and 
     repression by digital means; (3) combat weaponized 
     technology, including the misuse of social media; (4) prevent 
     the digital manipulation of elections, electoral data, and 
     critical infrastructure; and (5) counter disinformation 
     propagated by malign actors, including the People's Republic 
     of China (PRC) and the Russian Federation.
       Labor Programs.--Not later than 90 days after the date of 
     enactment of the Act, the USAID Administrator shall submit to 
     the Committees on Appropriations an update to the report 
     required under section 7032(k)(1) of division K of Public Law 
     117-103 on labor programs that support labor rights, 
     independent worker organizing, and capacity in collective 
     bargaining through partnership with relevant stakeholders.
       Funds for labor programs administered by USAID are subject 
     to prior consultation with the Committees on Appropriations.
       Program Changes.--The Secretary of State or USAID 
     Administrator, as appropriate, shall continue to report to 
     the appropriate congressional committees within 30 days of a 
     decision to significantly change the objectives or the 
     content of a democracy program or to close such a program due 
     to increasing repression by the host government. The report 
     shall also include a strategy for continuing support for 
     democracy promotion, if such programming is feasible.
       Program Coordination.--Not later than 90 days after the 
     date of enactment of the Act, the Secretary of State, in 
     consultation with the USAID Administrator, shall submit a 
     report to the appropriate congressional committees describing 
     the framework and mechanisms for the coordination of 
     democracy programs supported by the Department of State and 
     USAID, including at the headquarters and mission level, and 
     at multilateral fora.
       Protection of Civil Society Activists and Journalists, 
     Independence of the Media, and Freedom of Expression.--The 
     agreement provides funds for programs to protect civil 
     society activists and journalists who are harassed, 
     threatened, and attacked for their legitimate advocacy 
     activities. The Assistant Secretary of State for DRL shall 
     consult with the Committees on Appropriations and relevant 
     stakeholders prior to the obligation of such funds. Funds 
     should be made available for programs to protect and 
     strengthen independent media in Afghanistan, including for 
     educational programming.
       Restrictions on Foreign Government Interference.--The 
     Secretary of State, in coordination with the USAID 
     Administrator, shall continue to submit a report to the 
     appropriate congressional committees every 90 days until 
     September 30, 2023, detailing steps taken by the Department 
     of State and USAID to comply with the requirements of 
     subsection (e).
       Spend Plan.--The spend plan required under section 7062(b) 
     of the Act for democracy programs should include accounts, 
     regions, and global programs.
       Transnational Repression.--Not later than 90 days after the 
     date of enactment of the Act, the Secretary of State shall 
     brief the appropriate congressional committees on steps taken 
     to combat transnational repression through multilateral fora 
     and in bilateral diplomacy.
     Section 7033. International Religious Freedom (unchanged)
       Assistance.--The agreement includes not less than 
     $10,000,000 under Economic Support Fund for programs to 
     protect and investigate the persecution of religious 
     minorities, and not less than $10,000,000 for international 
     religious freedom programs under Democracy Fund.
       Countries of Particular Concern.--If the United States 
     Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) 
     recommends the designation of a country as a country of 
     particular concern (CPC) in its annual report, and such 
     country is not designated as a CPC by the Department of 
     State, the Secretary of State shall provide the rationale for 
     such decision to the appropriate congressional committees 
     within 30 days of such decision.
       Curriculum Report.--Not later than 45 days after the date 
     of enactment of the Act, the Secretary of State shall brief 
     the Committees on Appropriations on the status of 
     implementation of training for all Foreign Service Officers 
     in international humanitarian law and policy, and the 
     development and implementation of training based on the 
     curriculum required under section 103 of the Frank R. Wolf 
     International Religious Freedom Act (Public Law 114-281).
       Expansion of Activities Report.--Not later than 90 days 
     after the date of enactment of the Act, and following 
     consultation with the Committees on Appropriations, the 
     Secretary of State shall brief such Committees on efforts and 
     opportunities to expand international religious freedom 
     programs, including through roundtables that bring together 
     individuals from diverse religions and beliefs.
     Section 7034. Special Provisions (modified)
       Several provisions of law included in prior Acts that 
     extended certain authorities are not included in the Act due 
     to the extension of such authorities in the Department of 
     State Authorization Act of 2022 (division I of H.R. 7900).
       Atrocities Prevention.--Funds made available by the Act 
     under Economic Support Fund for programs to prevent 
     atrocities shall be the responsibility of the Assistant 
     Secretary of State for DRL. The Assistant Secretary of State 
     for DRL and the Assistant Secretary of State for INL shall 
     coordinate atrocities prevention programs funded under 
     Economic Support Fund and International Narcotics Control and 
     Law Enforcement, respectively. Such funds shall be subject to 
     the regular notification procedures of the Committees on 
     Appropriations.
       Exchange Visitor Program Clarification.--For purposes of 
     subsection (d)(7), the term ``modify'' means any executive 
     action that changes the number, origin, or eligibility of 
     program participants during any 60 day period, or that 
     otherwise changes the manner in which the program is 
     implemented, including the suspension of visas.
       Ex-Post Evaluations.--The agreement endorses language in 
     the House report under this section regarding ex-post 
     evaluations of the sustainability of United States assistance 
     programs. Not later than 120 days after the date of enactment 
     of the Act, the Secretary of State and USAID Administrator 
     shall submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations on 
     the uses of funds made available for ex-post evaluations in 
     fiscal year 2023.
       Forensic Anthropology Assistance.--Funding for forensic 
     anthropology assistance shall be used to support activities, 
     including DNA analysis and the exhumation and identification 
     of remains, in countries where large numbers of people were 
     killed or forcibly disappeared and presumed dead as a result 
     of armed conflict, crimes against humanity, or other gross 
     violations of human rights, including to support activities 
     in Central America to exhume remains of victims of 
     atrocities. Not later than 120 days after the date of 
     enactment of the Act, the Secretary of State shall consult 
     with the Committees on Appropriations on the planned uses of 
     funds.
       Innovation Incentive Awards.--In lieu of the biannual 
     directive included under this heading in the explanatory 
     statement accompanying division K of Public Law 114-113, the 
     USAID Administrator shall submit such report to the 
     Committees on Appropriations every 12 months on the use of 
     the authority provided under subsection (d)(5) of the Act.
       Localization Report.--In addition to the requirements 
     enumerated under the heading Locally-led development in the 
     House report, such report shall also describe how USAID: (1) 
     defines a ``locally-established partner'' and an 
     ``underutilized partner'', including any plans to modify such 
     definitions, or the definition of a ``local entity''; and (2) 
     assesses the capacity of local entities to effectively 
     implement and manage funds. Such report shall also include 
     details on funding implemented by local entities in fiscal 
     years 2021 and 2022, including development and humanitarian 
     assistance programs.
       Local Works.--Not later than 90 days after the date of 
     enactment of the Act, the USAID Administrator shall submit to 
     the Committees on Appropriations an updated report on the 
     Local Works program including: (1) an assessment of progress 
     in achieving the central goal of Local Works to move USAID 
     toward a model of sustainability-based partnership with local 
     governments, organizations, and communities; (2) a 
     description of the factors that limit or prevent such 
     partnerships from being achieved and steps being taken to 
     address those factors and to expand Local Works; and (3) 
     recommendations for administrative or legislative action that

[[Page S9296]]

     would support further expansion of such partnerships.
       New Partnerships Initiative.--The agreement includes funds 
     at not less than the prior fiscal year to support the New 
     Partnerships Initiative and directs the USAID Administrator 
     to report to the Committees on Appropriations not later than 
     90 days after the date of enactment of the Act on funding 
     provided to new, under-utilized, and local partners under 
     such initiative in the prior fiscal year.
       Protections and Remedies for Employees of Diplomatic 
     Missions and International Organizations.--For purposes of 
     implementing section 203(a)(2) of the William Wilberforce 
     Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act of 2008 
     (Public Law 110-457), the Secretary of State shall consider 
     the following as sufficient to determine that a diplomatic 
     mission ``tolerated such actions'': (1) the failure to 
     provide a replacement passport within a reasonable period of 
     time to a T-visa recipient; (2) the existence of multiple 
     concurrent civil suits against members of the diplomatic 
     mission; or (3) the failure to satisfy a civil judgment 
     against an employee of the diplomatic mission.
       Small Island Developing States.--The agreement authorizes 
     loan guarantees for certain countries, including SIDS. This 
     authority provides the Secretary of State and USAID 
     Administrator additional means for supporting countries in 
     the Caribbean and PICs, including to mitigate and address the 
     impacts of climate change.
     Section 7035. Law Enforcement and Security (modified)
       Crowd Control.--Not later than 90 days after the date of 
     enactment of the Act, and every 90 days thereafter until 
     September 30, 2024, the Secretary of State shall submit a 
     report to the Committees on Appropriations detailing any 
     actions taken pursuant to subsection (c)(3).
       Foreign Military Training Report.--Section 656 of the FAA 
     requires the inclusion of units of operation of military 
     personnel who receive training. The agreement directs that 
     such units shall be specified at the battalion or equivalent 
     level.
       International Prison Conditions.--The agreement includes 
     funding for programs to eliminate inhumane prison conditions 
     and reduce pre-trial detention, including overcrowding and 
     the use of solidarity confinement, that violate due process 
     and harm human health. Such funds are in addition to other 
     funds made available by the Act for such purposes.
       Reports Continued.--The Secretary of State shall submit the 
     report on security assistance required by section 7035(d)(1) 
     of division G of Public Law 116-94 in the manner described, 
     except such report shall include funds obligated and expended 
     during fiscal year 2022.
       The Secretary of State shall submit the report on vetting 
     required by section 7049(d)(3) of division F of Public Law 
     116-6 in the manner described.
       Section 620M of the Foreign Assistance Act.--For purposes 
     of section 620M of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, the 
     term ``credible information'' means information that, 
     considering the source of such information and the 
     surrounding circumstances, supports a reasonable belief that 
     a violation has occurred, and shall not be determined solely 
     on the basis of: (1) the number of sources; (2) whether the 
     source has been critical of a policy or action of the U.S. 
     Government or its security partners; (3) whether the source 
     has a personal connection to the information being reported; 
     or (4) whether the U.S. Government is able to independently 
     verify the information.
       Not later than 45 days after the date of enactment of the 
     Act, the Secretary of State shall submit a report to the 
     Committees on Appropriation on progress in obtaining the 
     written agreements with recipients of U.S. assistance 
     required by section 620M(c) of the FAA, including a list of 
     the countries to which the written agreements are applicable 
     and the number of agreements signed. Such agreements shall 
     utilize standardized language that is fully consistent with 
     and specific to implementation of the letter and intent of 
     such section.
       Security Assistance Coordination.--The agreement supports 
     increased measures to ensure that security cooperation 
     programs funded by the Act are strategic, address clearly 
     defined goals and objectives, and are integrated with other 
     programs. Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment 
     of the Act, the Secretary of State, in coordination with the 
     Secretary of Defense, shall submit to the Committees on 
     Appropriations an integrated security cooperation strategy 
     for assistance for Georgia, Kenya, Peru, and Vietnam.
       Security Force Professionalization.--Prior fiscal year 
     funds appropriated for security force professionalization 
     programs under Peacekeeping Operations and International 
     Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement remain available to 
     increase partner capacity to collect, track, and analyze data 
     on arbitrary arrest, abuse of detainees, and harm to 
     civilians from law enforcement operations of the respective 
     government. Not later than 90 days after the date of 
     enactment of the Act, the Secretary of State shall consult 
     with the Committees on Appropriations on the planned uses and 
     program management of such funds in fiscal years 2023 and 
     2024.
       Training Related to International Humanitarian Law.--Not 
     later than 90 days after the date of enactment of the Act, 
     and following consultation with the Committees on 
     Appropriations, the Secretary of State shall submit a report 
     to such Committees on the implementation of section 
     7035(a)(4) of division G of Public Law 116-94. Such report 
     shall include the amount of funds made available by country 
     under Peacekeeping Operations and Foreign Military Financing 
     Program.
     Section 7036. Assistance for Innocent Victims of Conflict 
         (modified)
     Section 7037. Palestinian Statehood (unchanged)
     Section 7038. Prohibition on Assistance to the Palestinian 
         Broadcasting Corporation (unchanged)
     Section 7039. Assistance for the West Bank and Gaza 
         (unchanged)
     Section 7040. Limitation on Assistance for the Palestinian 
         Authority (unchanged)
     Section 7041. Middle East and North Africa (modified)
       Bahrain Report.--Not later than 60 days after the date of 
     enactment of the Act, the Secretary of State shall submit a 
     report to the Committees on Appropriations detailing efforts 
     made on behalf of political prisoners in Bahrain and the 
     Government of Bahrain's response.
       Egypt.--The agreement includes assistance for Egypt at 
     levels consistent with the prior fiscal year.
       In accordance with paragraph (3)(A)(vi), the Secretary of 
     State shall certify and report that the Government of Egypt 
     is taking sustained and effective steps to provide American 
     citizens with fair and commensurate compensation for injuries 
     and losses caused by the Egyptian military, including in an 
     attack on September 13, 2015 as described under this heading 
     in the House report.
       Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of the 
     Act, the Secretary of State, in consultation with the 
     Secretary of Defense, shall update the report required under 
     this heading in Senate Report 116-126 on Egypt's compliance 
     with end-user monitoring agreements for the use of United 
     States military equipment in the Sinai, in the manner 
     described.
       Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of the 
     Act, the Secretary of State shall submit a report to the 
     appropriate congressional committees on incidents of 
     harassment, threats, and arbitrary detention against American 
     citizens, and their family members in Egypt and the United 
     States.
       Iraq.--In addition to the amounts designated in the Act for 
     Iraq under Economic Support Fund and Foreign Military 
     Financing Program, the agreement includes not less than the 
     following amounts for assistance for Iraq: $47,500,000 under 
     Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and Related 
     Programs; and $1,000,000 under International Military 
     Education and Training.
       Funds made available under Economic Support Fund for 
     democracy programs for Iraq should be the responsibility of 
     the Assistant Secretary of State for DRL.
       The agreement includes $10,000,000 under Economic Support 
     Fund to support American-style higher education institutions 
     in Iraq, including in the Kurdistan region, on an open and 
     competitive basis.
       Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of the 
     Act, the Secretary of State shall submit a report to the 
     Committees on Appropriations on steps taken by the 
     governments of the United States and Iraq to maintain the 
     Memorandum of Understanding terms for United States specific 
     rice tender.
       Jordan.--The agreement supports the Government of Jordan in 
     making sustainable economic reforms, including in the water 
     and public sectors, consistent with the terms of the new 
     Memorandum of Understanding between the United States and the 
     Government of Jordan. Within the total amounts designated in 
     the Act for assistance for Jordan, the agreement includes not 
     less than the following: $10,400,000 under Nonproliferation, 
     Anti-terrorism, Demining and Related Programs; and $3,800,000 
     under International Military Education and Training.
       Lebanon.--The agreement includes assistance for Lebanon at 
     levels not less than those requested for fiscal year 2023.
       The agreement continues to support the efforts of the 
     Lebanese Armed Forces to combat Hezbollah and other terrorist 
     groups in Lebanon, and to continue to serve as a stabilizing 
     force in that country and for the region. As a current 
     recipient of United States foreign assistance, the Lebanese 
     Armed Forces are not controlled by a Foreign Terrorist 
     Organization, as designated pursuant to section 219 of the 
     Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1189).
       Morocco.--The agreement includes not less than $10,000,000 
     under Economic Support Fund, not less than $10,000,000 under 
     Development Assistance, and $10,000,000 under Foreign 
     Military Financing Program for assistance for Morocco.
       Nita M. Lowey Middle East Partnership for Peace Act 
     (MEPPA).--The MEPPA consultation required under this section 
     in the House report shall include detail on funds made 
     available specifically for women's leadership programs that 
     bring together Israeli and Palestinian women who are 
     committed to working in pursuit of Middle East peace.
       Syria.--Recognizing that the failure to address extremism 
     at al-Hol Camp could further destabilize the region and 
     strengthen the Islamic State, the agreement includes funds 
     under Economic Support Fund for programs to address 
     instability and insecurity in al-Hol Camp, including to 
     mitigate extremism among Camp youth, following consultation 
     with the Committees on Appropriations.

[[Page S9297]]

       Not later than 45 days after the date of enactment of the 
     Act, the Secretary of State, in consultation with the heads 
     of other relevant Federal agencies, shall brief the 
     Committees on Appropriations on plans to work with United 
     States allies to address the growing security threat posed by 
     conditions at the al-Hol displacement camp in Syria and 
     associated ISIS-detention sites being guarded by the Syrian 
     Democratic Forces, where over 70 percent of the population is 
     reportedly under age 18.
       UN Political Process on Western Sahara.--The Secretary of 
     State shall continue to support a United Nations-led 
     political process that achieves a just, lasting, and mutually 
     acceptable political solution in accordance with relevant 
     United Nations Security Council resolutions.
       Yemen.--The agreement includes funds under title III of the 
     Act and under Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and 
     Related Programs for health, humanitarian, and stabilization 
     assistance for Yemen, including demining operations.
     Section 7042. Africa (modified)
       Benin.--The agreement includes $2,000,000 for democracy 
     programs for Benin to support civil society and free and fair 
     elections.
       Democratic Republic of the Congo.--The agreement endorses 
     the reporting directive under this section in the House 
     report regarding the ongoing violence and instability in the 
     eastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) 
     affecting minority communities, including the Banyamulenge. 
     In addition, the report should include an assessment of the 
     support provided by Rwanda to the M23 rebel group and the 
     impact of such support on civilian populations and stability 
     in the region.
       The Secretary of State shall brief the Committees on 
     Appropriations not later than 90 days after the date of 
     enactment of the Act, on efforts to work with the Government 
     of the DRC and the UN to thoroughly investigate and bring to 
     justice those responsible for the deaths of Michael Sharp and 
     Zaida Catalan.
       Equatorial Guinea.--The agreement includes $2,000,000 for 
     democracy programs for Equatorial Guinea to support civil 
     society and anti-corruption programs.
       Mozambique.--The agreement includes assistance for 
     Mozambique above the prior fiscal year, including for efforts 
     to help counter and reverse ISIS--Mozambique gains by 
     strengthening the legitimacy and capacity of the armed forces 
     and addressing the lack of basic services and political and 
     economic exclusion.
       Prosper Africa.--Of the funds made available in the Act 
     under Development Assistance, $100,000,000 should be made 
     available for the Prosper Africa initiative to increase two-
     way trade and investment between the United States and 
     African countries.
       Rwanda.--Not later than 45 days after the date of enactment 
     of the Act, the Secretary of State shall brief the Committees 
     on Appropriations on abuse of the judicial system by the 
     Government of Rwanda to silence critics of the government, 
     including arbitrary and incommunicado detention, mistreatment 
     of prisoners, coerced confessions, lack of due process, and 
     unfair trials.
       Sahel.--Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment 
     of the Act, the Secretary of State, in consultation with the 
     heads of other relevant Federal agencies, shall update the 
     report required under the heading Report on Sub-Saharan 
     Security Programs in Senate Report 116-126.
       The Secretary of State should work with the governments of 
     Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger to ensure the transparent 
     investigation, and appropriate punishment, of security force 
     personnel and those associated with such personnel who are 
     implicated in gross violations of human rights. Not later 
     than 60 days after the date of enactment of the Act, the 
     Secretary shall brief the Committees on Appropriations on the 
     status of such investigations and the intended uses of funds 
     made available under title IV of the Act and prior Acts for 
     assistance for such governments.
       South Sudan.--The agreement includes funds for democracy 
     programs to support civil society organizations in South 
     Sudan that document human rights violations and advocate for 
     conditions conducive to free and fair elections, peace and 
     stability, and for conflict mitigation and reconciliation 
     programs, at levels above the prior fiscal year. Any funds 
     made available for the central government of South Sudan may 
     only be made available, following consultation with the 
     Committees on Appropriations, for: (1) humanitarian 
     assistance; (2) health programs, including to prevent, 
     detect, and respond to infectious diseases; (3) assistance to 
     support South Sudan peace negotiations or to advance or 
     implement a peace agreement; and (4) assistance to support 
     implementation of outstanding issues of the Comprehensive 
     Peace Agreement, and subsequent and mutual arrangements 
     related to such agreement, or any other internationally 
     recognized viable peace agreement in South Sudan.
       Not later than 45 days after the date of enactment of the 
     Act, the Secretary of State shall submit an updated report to 
     the appropriate congressional committees on steps taken, and 
     planned to be taken, by the governments of the United States 
     and South Sudan to obtain justice and fair compensation for 
     the victims of the attack on the Terrain Hotel on July 11, 
     2016.
       Sudan.--Funds made available for assistance for Sudan 
     should be prioritized for civil society capacity building, 
     political party and coalition building, women and youth 
     empowerment, protection of human rights, and support for 
     elections if the Secretary of State determines that 
     conditions exist for free and fair elections.
       Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of the 
     Act, the Secretary of State and USAID Administrator shall 
     submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations detailing 
     steps taken in the prior year to prevent the Sudan 
     Humanitarian Aid Commission from disrupting or diverting 
     humanitarian and development assistance provided for the 
     people of Sudan.
       Virunga National Park.--The agreement includes funding 
     under International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement for 
     equipment and training to bolster security in Virunga 
     National Park, including against illegal armed groups.
     Section 7043. East Asia and the Pacific (modified)
       Association of Southeast Asian Nations.--Funds provided 
     under Economic Support Fund and International Narcotics 
     Control and Law Enforcement to support the Association of 
     Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) shall be coordinated with the 
     Ambassador of the United States Mission to ASEAN.
       Countering PRC Influence Fund.--The Secretary of State and 
     USAID Administrator shall allocate funds from the Countering 
     PRC Influence Fund (CPRCIF) to activities that provide the 
     highest strategic impact to counter PRC influence globally. 
     Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of the 
     Act, and prior to the initial obligation of funds, the 
     Secretary of State and USAID Administrator shall consult with 
     the Committees on Appropriations on the development of an 
     impact measurement system that scores the strategic impact of 
     each proposed activity to assist in the prioritization and 
     allocation of funds from the CPRCIF.
       Funds are allocated according to the following table and 
     subject to section 7019 of the Act:

                      COUNTERING PRC INFLUENCE FUND
               (Budget authority in thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Budget
                         Account                             Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Development Assistance..................................          90,000
Economic Support Fund...................................          80,000
International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement.....          80,000
Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and Related            25,000
 Programs...............................................
Foreign Military Financing Program......................          50,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Indonesia.--Not later than 45 days after the date of 
     enactment of the Act, the Secretary of State shall consult 
     with the Committees on Appropriations on the feasibility and 
     cost of establishing American Presence Posts in Indonesia to 
     increase official presence in geographic areas of strategic 
     importance to the United States and Indonesia.
       Laos.--The agreement includes $1,000,000 for trilateral 
     programs in Laos, to be coordinated and conducted by the 
     Department of State and USAID, as appropriate, with the 
     Government of Vietnam, and $1,000,000 for short-term 
     undergraduate and graduate scholarships, including for 
     Government of Laos officials at universities in Thailand and 
     Vietnam, as appropriate. An additional $1,500,000 is provided 
     for the Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (Global UGRAD) 
     in Laos.
       Funds made available by the Act under Department of the 
     Treasury, International Affairs Technical Assistance shall be 
     made available for assistance for Laos, including for the 
     deployment of temporary duty personnel.
       The agreement includes funding for programs to combat 
     trafficking in persons in Laos, including $2,000,000 to 
     address trafficking along the northern border.
       For purposes of subsection (d), dioxin assessments, 
     conducted in coordination with the Government of Laos, should 
     include environmental testing in areas with possible 
     contamination to determine the actual need for remediation, 
     if any. These areas include villages close to multiple 
     spraying runs and former United States facilities where Agent 
     Orange may have been stored, and where there is a 
     disproportionate number of persons with disabilities 
     consistent with exposure to dioxin.
       Mongolia.--The agreement includes funding above the prior 
     fiscal year for democracy programs for Mongolia, including 
     political party strengthening activities.
       Pacific Islands Countries.--For purposes of the Act, the 
     term ``Pacific Islands countries'' includes the Cook Islands, 
     the Republic of Fiji, the Republic of Kiribati, the Republic 
     of the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, 
     the Republic of Nauru, Niue, the Republic of Palau, the 
     Independent State of Papua New Guinea, the Independent State 
     of Samoa, the Solomon Islands, the Kingdom of Tonga, Tuvalu, 
     and the Republic of Vanuatu.
       Funds made available for assistance for PICs shall support: 
     trade capacity building; climate change mitigation and 
     adaptation programs; emergency preparedness and technical 
     assistance for emergencies and post-disaster relief and 
     recovery; economic programs to advance inclusive and 
     sustainable long-term economic development, including 
     $60,000,000 for the South Pacific Tuna Treaty; democratic 
     governance; and security programs, including $5,000,000 for 
     trilateral programs to be conducted with regional allies, 
     including Taiwan. The Secretary of State and USAID 
     Administrator shall consult with

[[Page S9298]]

     the Committees on Appropriations on the mechanisms for a 
     flexible response fund and new initiatives to strengthen 
     governance and rule of law in the PICs.
       In order to craft a coherent communications strategy 
     targeting the region, funds made available in the Act for 
     PICs shall be made available on a bilateral basis, and the 
     Department of State and USAID shall attribute regional 
     funding made available for such countries on a country-by-
     country basis, to the extent practicable.
       The agreement includes funds above the prior fiscal year to 
     address WWII-era UXO in PICs, including $2,500,000 for the 
     Solomon Islands.
       Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of the 
     Act, the Secretary of the Treasury shall submit a report to 
     the Committees on Appropriations detailing projects awarded 
     by the Asian Development Bank and the World Bank from fiscal 
     years 2016 through 2021 to companies owned by, or affiliated 
     with, the PRC in PICs, on a country-by-country and project-
     by-project basis. Such report shall include a description of 
     the project awarded, including dollar amount, and factors 
     that determined awards, such as least cost assessment.
       People's Republic of China.--Not later than 90 days after 
     the date of enactment of the Act, the Secretary of State 
     shall update the report required under this heading in Senate 
     Report 115-282 in the manner described.
       The Secretary of State shall brief the Committees on 
     Appropriations, not later than 90 days after the date of 
     enactment of the Act, on the United States government's plan 
     to use sanctions, including those authorized by the Hong Kong 
     Autonomy Act and the Uyghur Human Rights Policy Act, against 
     PRC officials and other entities complicit in genocide, 
     crimes against humanity, and other gross violations of human 
     rights.
       The agreement supports funding for NGOs within the Indo-
     Pacific region that are focused on the protection and 
     advancement of freedom of expression, association, assembly, 
     and religion for women, human rights activists, and ethnic 
     and religious minorities in the PRC. The Assistant Secretary 
     of State for DRL shall consult with the Committees on 
     Appropriations and representatives of civil society 
     regarding: (1) strengthening the capacity of such entities; 
     (2) protecting members of organizations who have been 
     targeted for arrest, harassment, forced sterilization, 
     coercive abortion, forced labor, or intimidation, including 
     members residing outside the PRC; and (3) messaging to reach 
     the broadest possible audiences within the PRC about United 
     States Government efforts to protect freedom of expression, 
     association, assembly, and religion.
       None of the funds made available by the Act shall be used 
     to implement, administer, carry out, modify, revise, or 
     enforce any action that directly supports or facilitates 
     forced labor and other violations of human rights, crimes 
     against humanity, and genocide in the PRC.
       Philippines.--The Secretary of State shall update the 
     report required under this heading in Senate Report 116-126 
     and include in such report how United States assistance for 
     the armed forces of the Philippines is helping to achieve 
     results in addressing the findings in such report. Such 
     report shall also assess actions taken by the Government of 
     the Philippines during the preceding 12 months to bring to 
     justice those involved in the killings of nine social 
     activists on March 7, 2021.
       The Secretary of State shall consult with the Committees on 
     Appropriations regarding the content of the report required 
     in the House report under this heading regarding the rule of 
     law.
       Taiwan.--The agreement includes funds under International 
     Military Education and Training for assistance to enhance 
     Taiwan's defense capabilities and strengthen interoperability 
     between the United States and Taiwan.
       Thailand.--The agreement provides $4,000,000 for democracy, 
     conflict resolution, and reconciliation programs in Southern 
     Thailand.
       Tibet.--For purposes of the report required by section 
     653(a) of the FAA, spend plans, and notifications, the 
     Department of State and USAID shall differentiate assistance 
     made available by the Act for Tibet from any such assistance 
     made available for India and in the PRC.
       Funds made available by the Act shall not be used to 
     produce or disseminate documents, reports, maps, or other 
     materials that recognize, identify, or otherwise refer to 
     Tibet, including the Tibet Autonomous Region and other 
     Tibetan autonomous counties and prefectures, as part of the 
     PRC, until the Secretary of State reports to the appropriate 
     congressional committees that the Government of the PRC has 
     reached a final negotiated agreement on Tibet with the Dalai 
     Lama or his representatives or with democratically-elected 
     leaders of the Tibetan people.
       The Secretary of State shall continue to pursue the 
     establishment of a consulate in Lhasa to provide services to 
     American citizens traveling in Tibet and to monitor 
     political, economic, and cultural developments in the Tibet 
     Autonomous Region. Until such consulate is established, the 
     Department of State should not permit the establishment of 
     any additional PRC consulates in the United States.
       USAID should consider supporting a project to provide 
     housing for Tibetan refugee families in India.
       Vietnam.--The agreement includes funds to strengthen 
     Vietnam's capacity to conduct DNA analysis and to otherwise 
     assist in locating and identifying the remains of Vietnamese 
     soldiers and civilians missing from the war, which may 
     include oral histories, and to support communications and 
     outreach that furthers reconciliation including museum and 
     other exhibits on war legacy cooperation. These funds are 
     intended to complement funds made available by the Department 
     of Defense for the Reconciliation/Vietnamese Wartime 
     Accounting Initiative. The USAID Administrator shall consult 
     with the Committees on Appropriations on the planned uses of 
     such funds.
       The agreement includes $2,500,000 under Educational and 
     Cultural Exchange Programs and $7,500,000 under title III for 
     the Vietnam Education Foundation Act of 2000.
     Section 7044. South and Central Asia (modified)
       Afghanistan.--The Secretary of State and USAID 
     Administrator shall take all appropriate actions to support 
     and protect women and girls and ensure such efforts are a top 
     priority in the Department of State's diplomatic engagement 
     on Afghanistan. Not later than 90 days after the date of 
     enactment of the Act, the Secretary and Administrator shall 
     jointly submit a report to the appropriate congressional 
     committees detailing steps taken, and intended to be taken, 
     to protect the rights of Afghan women and girls, including 
     advocating for their freedom of movement, right to education 
     and employment, political participation, and access to 
     healthcare.
       Bangladesh.--The Secretary of State and USAID 
     Administrator, as applicable, shall consult with the 
     Committees on Appropriations concerning any plans for 
     assistance for Rohingya refugees in Bhasan Char, Bangladesh 
     prior to the development of the program plan for funds made 
     available in the Act under Migration and Refugee Assistance 
     and International Disaster Assistance.
       Of the funds made available pursuant to subsection (b)(3), 
     $2,000,000 should be made available for programs for the 
     Rohingya community in Bangladesh, consistent with prior 
     years.
       India.--The Secretary of State and USAID Administrator 
     should work with the Government of India and Indian civil 
     society organizations to increase economic opportunities, 
     encourage tolerance, protect human rights, and strengthen the 
     administration of justice in the remote States of North 
     Eastern India. Not later than 180 days after the date of 
     enactment of the Act, the Secretary and Administrator shall 
     brief the appropriate congressional committees on the 
     situation in North Eastern India.
       Pakistan.--The agreement supports assistance for the basic 
     needs of the people of Pakistan as they recover from 
     devastating flooding. The Secretary of State and USAID 
     Administrator shall consult with the Committees on 
     Appropriations on: (1) the cost estimates for recovery from 
     the floods; (2) United States assistance provided, and 
     anticipated to be provided, in support of such recovery; and 
     (3) how such support serves United States national interests.
       The agreement includes funding for assistance for Pakistan 
     for democracy and gender programs consistent with the prior 
     fiscal year.
       Funds made available in the Act under Economic Support Fund 
     and Nonproliferation, Anti-Terrorism, Demining and Related 
     Programs for Pakistan shall be made available to interdict 
     precursor materials from Pakistan to Afghanistan that are 
     used to manufacture improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and 
     for agriculture extension programs that encourage alternative 
     fertilizer use among Pakistani farmers to decrease the dual-
     use of fertilizer in the manufacturing of IEDs.
     Section 7045. Latin America and the Caribbean (modified)
       Central America.--Funds for certain assistance for Central 
     America are allocated according to the following table and 
     subject to section 7019 of the Act:

                 SELECTED ASSISTANCE FOR CENTRAL AMERICA
               (Budget authority in thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Budget
                     Account/Program                         Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Development Assistance
  El Salvador...........................................
    National Commission for the Search of Persons                  1,000
     Disappeared in the Context of the Armed Conflict...
  Honduras..............................................         126,650
Economic Support Fund
  State Western Hemisphere Regional.....................
    Central America Program to Protect Judicial                    2,500
     Officials, Independent Media, and Human Rights
     Defenders..........................................
International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement
    Central America Regional Security Initiative of             [32,500]
     which, Costa Rica..................................
International Military Education and Training
    Costa Rica..........................................             725
Foreign Military Financing Program
    Costa Rica..........................................           7,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Within the funds provided pursuant to subsection 
     (a)(1)(A)(ii), the agreement includes funding for support of 
     bilateral compacts with the governments of Central America 
     for the purpose of strengthening their capacity to protect 
     women and children from domestic violence, sexual assault, 
     trafficking, and child abuse or neglect, including by holding 
     perpetrators accountable.
       The Government of Guatemala should fulfill its commitment 
     under the financing agreement for the Chixoy Reparations Plan 
     in a timely manner, and the USAID Administrator shall submit 
     a report to the Committees on Appropriations on progress not 
     later

[[Page S9299]]

     than 60 days after the date of enactment of the Act, 
     including the reasons for any delay in implementing the 
     agreement.
       The agreement endorses language under this section in the 
     House report concerning the purposes and allocation of funds 
     made available pursuant to subsection (a)(1)(A)(i) to combat 
     corruption and impunity.
       Funds made available by the Act for assistance for El 
     Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras shall, as appropriate and 
     in accordance with the conditions of subsection (a)(2), be 
     made available for programs that: (1) increase productivity 
     in targeted economic sectors in which each country could be 
     regionally or globally competitive, consistent with United 
     States and international law; (2) reduce trade barriers 
     regionally and with the United States; (3) enhance 
     infrastructure at key border crossings in order to facilitate 
     trade regionally and with the United States; (4) provide 
     technical assistance to promote economic growth that is 
     equitable and reaches all, including the most marginalized, 
     and attract foreign investment, including by implementing 
     legal, regulatory, and economic reforms; and (5) provide 
     technical assistance to increase the collection of taxes.
       Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of the 
     Act, the USAID Administrator shall consult with the 
     Committees on Appropriations on funds allocated for the 
     National Commission for the Search of Persons Disappeared in 
     the Context of the Armed Conflict in El Salvador for fiscal 
     years 2022 and 2023.
       Colombia.--Pursuant to subsection (b), funds for certain 
     assistance for Colombia are allocated according to the 
     following table and subject to section 7019 of the Act:

                                COLOMBIA
               (Budget authority in thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Budget
                     Account/Program                         Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Development Assistance
  Biodiversity..........................................          15,000
Economic Support Fund
  Afro-Colombian and Indigenous Communities.............          25,000
  Human Rights..........................................          15,000
International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement
  Rule of Law and Human Rights..........................          37,500
  of which, Justice Sector Institutional Strengthening &        [19,500]
   Reform...............................................
Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and Related            21,000
 Programs...............................................
International Military Education and Training...........           1,850
Foreign Military Financing Program......................          38,525
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Section 7062(b) of the Act requires the submission of a 
     spend plan prior to making funds appropriated by the Act 
     available for assistance for Colombia. Concurrent with the 
     submission of such plan, and with respect to funds 
     appropriated under International Narcotics Control and Law 
     Enforcement, the Secretary of State shall submit a report to 
     the Committees on Appropriations detailing the 
     counternarcotics strategy of the Government of Colombia and 
     the planned United States assistance in support of such 
     strategy. Such report shall include (1) a summary of the 
     strategy, including for eradication, interdiction, and law 
     enforcement objectives; (2) an explanation of how United 
     States assistance will support implementation of such 
     strategy; (3) a description of how such assistance aligns 
     with United States national interests; (4) a description of 
     any ways in which the Government of Colombia's 
     counternarcotics strategy does not align with United 
     States interests and priorities, and steps intended to be 
     taken to ensure that such assistance is advancing United 
     States national interests; and (5) an assessment of the 
     likelihood that such strategy will sustainably reduce 
     illicit drug cultivation, production, and trafficking.
       The Secretary of State shall regularly review the progress 
     of the Government of Colombia in meeting the objectives of 
     the counternarcotics strategy and inform the Committees on 
     Appropriations of the outcome of such review.
       The agreement provides funding to continue programs and 
     activities to protect Colombia's biodiversity in national 
     parks, protected areas, and Indigenous reserves.
       The agreement supports programs, including demining and UXO 
     clearance activities, to reintegrate demobilized combatants 
     into civilian pursuits, consistent with United States and 
     Colombian law. Funds for such programs may only be made 
     available following consultation with the Committees on 
     Appropriations and the Government of Colombia.
       The agreement provides not less than $2,000,000 for 
     continued support for efforts to improve education, digital 
     connectivity, tertiary roads, and other improvements in 
     Indigenous coffee producing communities, to increase incomes 
     and expand economic opportunities, which should be matched 
     with donations from non-United States Government sources.
       Cuba.--The Secretary of State shall update the Consular 
     Services Report and U.S. Government Personnel Report 
     contained under the Cuba heading in section 7035 of Senate 
     Report 116-126 in the manner described.
       Haiti.--The Secretary of State should use every appropriate 
     diplomatic tool to press for meaningful dialogue between the 
     current authorities, civil society, the political opposition, 
     and other relevant stakeholders to restore democratic 
     governance through free and fair elections, counter violent 
     gangs, improve security, and deliver basic services to the 
     Haitian people. Additionally, the Secretary is directed to 
     continue to take strong legal action against individuals 
     engaged in human rights abuses, corruption, and other illicit 
     activities.
       The agreement includes not less than $5,000,000 to continue 
     efforts to help meet the sanitary, medical, and nutritional 
     needs of Haitian prisoners, the vast majority of whom are in 
     pre-trial detention. The Secretary of State shall consult 
     with the Committees on Appropriations on the planned uses of 
     funds.
       Mexico.--The agreement includes assistance for Mexico 
     commensurate with prior fiscal years, which should be 
     prioritized for programs and activities described in the 
     first paragraph under the heading Assistance Priorities under 
     this section in the House report.
       The Secretary of State should press the Government of 
     Mexico to provide answers to the families of an estimated 
     100,000 cases of disappeared persons and identify the 
     thousands of human remains that have been recovered. The 
     Department of State should provide forensic assistance to 
     Mexico to help address the significant backlog of cases.
       The agreement includes funds under International Narcotics 
     Control and Law Enforcement for a Resident Legal Advisor at 
     the United States Embassy in Mexico, including to address 
     cases of migrant kidnappings and particularly cases in which 
     extortion payments are being demanded from relatives in the 
     United States.
       Nicaragua.--The agreement provides not less than 
     $15,000,000 for democracy programs for Nicaragua, including 
     to support civil society, journalists, and other activists 
     promoting the transparency and accountability of government 
     institutions.
       The Caribbean.--Funds for certain assistance for the 
     Caribbean are allocated according to the following table and 
     subject to section 7019 of the Act:

                              THE CARIBBEAN
               (Budget authority in thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Budget
                   Account/Initiative                        Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Development Assistance
  Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean....................           9,500
  Dominican Republic....................................          18,100
           USAID Caribbean Development Program                    13,000
  Caribbean Energy Initiative...........................           7,500
  USAID Latin America and the Caribbean Regional........
  Strengthening Resilience to Natural Disasters.........          10,000
  Inclusive Economic Growth.............................          12,000
Economic Support Fund
  Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean....................           9,500
  USAID Latin America and the Caribbean Regional........
  Strengthening Resilience to Natural Disasters.........           7,000
  State Western Hemisphere Regional.....................
  Caribbean Basin Security Initiative...................          37,000
International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement
  State Western Hemisphere Regional.....................
  Caribbean Basin Security Initiative...................          35,000
Foreign Military Financing Program
  State Western Hemisphere Regional.....................
  Caribbean Basin Security Initiative...................          10,000
                                                         ---------------
    Subtotal, Resilience to Natural Disasters...........          17,000
                                                         ---------------
    Subtotal, Caribbean Basin Security Initiative.......          82,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Not later than 45 days after the date of enactment of the 
     Act the USAID Administrator shall consult with the Committees 
     on Appropriations on the design and allocation of funds made 
     available for inclusive economic growth in the Caribbean for 
     fiscal years 2022 and 2023.
       Venezuela.--Pursuant to subsection (f), the agreement 
     directs that $50,000,000 under Economic Support Fund should 
     be made available for democracy programs for Venezuela, and 
     that funds under title III of the Act shall be made available 
     to assist with the needs of Venezuelan migrants, subject to 
     prior consultation with, and the regular notification 
     procedures of, the Committees on Appropriations.
       Western Hemisphere Report on United States Counternarcotics 
     Strategy.--The Secretary of State, in consultation with the 
     USAID Administrator, shall submit a report to the Committees 
     on Appropriations not later than 120 days after the date of 
     enactment of the Act on the United States counternarcotics 
     strategy in Central and South America. Such report shall 
     include: (1) a review disaggregated by country of prior 
     counternarcotics initiatives in Peru, Bolivia, Colombia, 
     Central America, and Mexico and whether past results achieved 
     the goals and projected outcomes of such initiatives, 
     including an explanation of lessons learned and reasons for 
     not achieving projected outcomes; (2) a description of how 
     the current strategy has incorporated such lessons and 
     changed over time; and (3) the goals and projected outcomes 
     of the current strategy.
     Section 7046. Europe and Eurasia (modified)
       Anti-Semitism, Racism, and Intolerance.--The agreement 
     provides $1,000,000 under Assistance for Europe, Eurasia and 
     Central Asia for programs to address racism, Islamophobia, 
     and xenophobia in Europe. The Secretary of State shall 
     consult with the appropriate congressional committees on 
     plans to counter anti-Semitism, racism, and intolerance in 
     Europe, including through initiatives supported by the 
     Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), 
     the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, and the Commission on 
     Security and Cooperation in Europe.
       Armenia.--The agreement includes not less than $60,000,000 
     for Armenia, including for programs to support economic 
     development, private sector productivity, energy 
     independence, democracy, and the rule of law.
       Balkans.--Not later than 90 days after the date of 
     enactment of the Act, the Secretary of State and USAID 
     Administrator shall jointly brief the Committees on 
     Appropriations on programs and initiatives being conducted or 
     intended to be conducted, in addition to those briefed the 
     prior fiscal year, to

[[Page S9300]]

     increase bilateral trade between the United States and the 
     Balkans, to reduce youth unemployment in the region, and to 
     grow small and medium enterprises to spur economic growth.
       Baltic States.--The agreement provides assistance for 
     Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia as a means to defend against 
     the malign influence and aggression of the Russian 
     Federation.
       Belarus.--The agreement includes not less than $30,000,000 
     for democracy programs and other purposes for Belarus, which 
     shall be made available to promote human rights and support 
     civil society activists, independent media, and political 
     opposition forces.
       Black Sea Countries.--Not later than 180 days after the 
     date of enactment of the Act, the Secretary of State, in 
     coordination with the heads of other relevant Federal 
     agencies, shall submit to the appropriate congressional 
     committees a strategy for working with NATO allies to deepen 
     economic ties with, and strengthen economic and security 
     assistance for, Black Sea countries, including to support 
     efforts to bolster democratic resilience.
       Civil Society and Independent Journalists.--The Department 
     of State, USAID, and NED are encouraged to continue 
     supporting civil society organizations and independent 
     journalists in European and Eurasian countries where 
     democratic progress and freedom of expression and association 
     are threatened.
       Conflict in the Caucasus.--The agreement endorses language 
     under this heading in the House report and directs that, 
     prior to the initial obligation of funds appropriated under 
     title IV of the Act for assistance for Armenia and 
     Azerbaijan, the Secretary of State shall consult with the 
     Committees on Appropriations on the proposed uses of such 
     funds.
       Georgia.--Not later than 90 days after the date of 
     enactment of the Act, the Secretary of State shall update and 
     submit to the Committees on Appropriations the report 
     described under this section in the explanatory statement 
     accompanying division K of Public Law 116-260.
       Hungary.--The agreement includes $2,000,000 for democracy 
     programs for Hungary, particularly to support independent 
     media and civil society.
       Ukraine.--Provisions related to the oversight of 
     supplemental funds for Ukraine, including for budget support, 
     humanitarian assistance, and security assistance, are 
     included under division M of the Act.
     Section 7047. Countering Russian Influence and Aggression 
         (modified)
       Countering Russian Influence Fund.--The agreement includes 
     not less than $300,000,000 for the Countering Russian 
     Influence Fund (CRIF), which is in addition to amounts made 
     available for bilateral assistance for countries in Europe, 
     Eurasia, and Central Asia. Funds are allocated according to 
     the following table and subject to section 7019 of the Act:

                    COUNTERING RUSSIAN INFLUENCE FUND
               (Budget authority in thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Budget
                         Account                             Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Assistance for Europe, Eurasia and Central Asia.........          95,000
International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement.....          50,000
International Military Education and Training...........           5,000
Foreign Military Financing Program......................         150,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Obligation and Expenditure Report.--Not later than 90 days 
     after the initial obligation of funds and every 90 days 
     thereafter until September 30, 2024, the Secretary of State 
     and USAID Administrator shall submit a consolidated report to 
     the Committees on Appropriations containing updated 
     information on obligations and expenditures of the CRIF on a 
     country and project basis.
     Section 7048. United Nations (modified)
       Annual Report on Arrears.--The Secretary of State shall 
     continue to submit the reports on arrears required by section 
     7048(j) of division J of Public Law 115-31 during fiscal year 
     2023.
     Section 7049. War Crimes Tribunal (modified)
     Section 7050. Global Internet Freedom (modified)
       The agreement includes not less than $90,500,000 for 
     programs to promote Internet freedom globally, of which 
     $40,000,000 is from funds appropriated under International 
     Broadcasting Operations for the Open Technology Fund (OTF). 
     Funds for such activities are allocated according to the 
     following table and subject to section 7019 of the Act:

                         GLOBAL INTERNET FREEDOM
               (Budget authority in thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Budget
                     Account/Program                         Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Economic Support Fund...................................          27,000
  Near East Regional Democracy..........................          16,750
Democracy Fund (Department of State)....................          14,000
Democracy Fund (USAID)..................................           3,500
Assistance for Europe, Eurasia and Central Asia.........           6,000
International Broadcasting Operations, Open Technology            40,000
 Fund...................................................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Internet Freedom Cost Matching.--Funds in the agreement 
     that are made available for Internet freedom programs should 
     be matched, to the maximum extent practicable, by sources 
     other than the United States Government, including from the 
     private sector.
     Section 7051. Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman, or Degrading 
         Treatment or Punishment (unchanged)
     Section 7052. Aircraft Transfer, Coordination, and Use 
         (unchanged)
     Section 7053. Parking Fines and Real Property Taxes Owed by 
         Foreign Governments (unchanged)
     Section 7054. International Monetary Fund (unchanged)
     Section 7055. Extradition (unchanged)
     Section 7056. Enterprise Funds (unchanged)
     Section 7057. United Nations Population Fund (unchanged)
     Section 7058. Global Health Activities (modified)
       Family Planning/Reproductive Health.--The agreement 
     maintains prior year funding levels and policy related to 
     family planning/reproductive health. The agreement does not 
     endorse directives under certain House report headings: 
     Research, regarding contraception; and Women's reproductive 
     healthcare in El Salvador.
       World Health Assembly Multilateral Instrument.--The 
     Secretary of State is encouraged to prioritize spillover 
     prevention within the new pandemic prevention multilateral 
     instrument being negotiated among the World Health Assembly.
     Section 7059. Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment 
         (modified)
     Section 7060. Sector Allocations (modified)
       Basic Education.--The agreement includes $130,000,000 for 
     the Global Partnership for Education and $30,000,000 for 
     Education Cannot Wait. The USAID Administrator shall consult 
     with the Committees on Appropriations on such contributions 
     to ensure adequate monitoring, evaluation, effectiveness, and 
     sustainability of programs.
       Deviation Authority.--The agreement retains deviation 
     authority for funds made available in the Act pursuant to 
     this section and sections 7059 and 7061. Deviation authority 
     provided in the Act should be exercised only to address 
     unforeseen or exigent circumstances, including opportunities 
     to advance United States foreign policy and development 
     interests. Consultations conducted and notifications 
     submitted prior to the use of such authority shall include 
     detailed information justifying the purpose for which funds 
     will be used, the source of funding, and efforts taken by the 
     Department of State and USAID to identify other available 
     funding.
       Economic Growth.--The agreement includes funds requested 
     for macroeconomic growth and private sector engagement. Not 
     later than 120 days after the date of enactment of the Act, 
     the Secretary of State, USAID Administrator, and Secretary of 
     the Treasury shall submit a report to the Committees on 
     Appropriations detailing the strategies, resources, and 
     mechanisms available to support sustainable economic growth 
     in foreign countries, including: (1) how such support is 
     targeted and measured for effectiveness; and (2) 
     recommendations for improvements to such efforts.
       Food Security.--Not later than 90 days after the date of 
     enactment of the Act, the Secretary of State shall consult 
     with the Committees on Appropriations on the directive 
     contained in subsection (c)(2), including: (1) key parties to 
     be engaged in, and potential timelines for, such 
     negotiations; and (2) how such a fund would complement 
     existing bilateral and multilateral mechanisms intended to 
     transition global food security efforts from emergency 
     response toward comprehensive, country-led strategies to 
     sustainably address food insecurity.
       Global Child Thrive Act.--The USAID Administrator should 
     prioritize implementation of the Global Child Thrive Act 
     (Subtitle I, Title XII, Public Law 116-283) and integrate 
     early childhood development interventions across humanitarian 
     and development programming, including within nutrition, 
     maternal and child health, basic education, and vulnerable 
     children programs.
       Pursuant to the Reinforcing Education Accountability in 
     Development Act (division A of Public Law 115-56), the annual 
     report to Congress on the United States Government Strategy 
     on International Basic Education should include funding data 
     disaggregated by country, education level, and populations 
     affected by crisis and conflict.
       International Food Security Balances Report.--The USAID 
     Administrator shall submit the international food security 
     balances report required under this heading in the 
     explanatory statement accompanying division K of Public Law 
     117-103 every 90 days until September 30, 2023, as required 
     in such explanatory statement.
       Land Grant Institutions.--USAID should continue supporting 
     the work of land grant institutions of higher learning and 
     continue partnering with such institutions with specialized 
     capability in agriculture research to assist developing 
     countries in improving food production.
       Market-Based Social Enterprises.--Funds used to support 
     market-based assistance for smallholder farmers through 
     locally-based social enterprises should support organizations 
     that are significantly funded through earned revenue and 
     demonstrate social impact through rigorously measured impact 
     data, including measuring attributable crop yield increases.
       Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of the 
     Act, the USAID Administrator shall submit a report to the 
     Committees on Appropriations detailing how USAID: (1) defines 
     market-based social enterprises; and (2) intends to program 
     and track funds for this purpose in fiscal year 2023.
       Scholar Rescue Programs.--Funding for programs to rescue 
     scholars shall be awarded on a competitive basis. The 
     Secretary of State and USAID Administrator shall consult with 
     the Committees on Appropriations prior to

[[Page S9301]]

     the initial obligation of funds for such purpose, including 
     to identify the operating unit or units responsible for 
     administering such funds.
     Section 7061. Environment Programs (modified)
       Funds for certain bilateral environment programs are 
     allocated according to the following table and subject to 
     section 7019 of the Act:

                          ENVIRONMENT PROGRAMS
               (Budget authority in thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Budget
                     Account/Program                         Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Andean Amazon...........................................          25,000
Brazilian Amazon........................................          25,000
Central Africa Regional Program for the Environment.....          45,000
Endangered Sea Turtles..................................             150
Great Apes..............................................          45,000
Guatemala/Belize/Mexico.................................           7,500
Lacey Act...............................................           4,000
Plastic Impacted Marine Species.........................           1,000
Toxic Chemicals.........................................           9,000
  Lead exposure.........................................           3,000
United States Fish and Wildlife Service.................           6,500
  Migratory bird conservation...........................           1,500
United States Forest Service............................           8,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Climate Action and Support Transparency Training.--The 
     agreement includes funds to support implementation of the 
     United States component of the Climate Action and Support 
     Transparency Training Adaptation Academy.
       Environmental Defenders.--Subsection (i) provides 
     $20,000,000 to support Indigenous and other civil society 
     organizations. These funds are intended for small grants to 
     local environmental defenders who, often at great personal 
     risk, work to protect landscapes, rivers, wildlife, and human 
     health that are imperiled by mining, logging, and other 
     extractive industries, petrochemical manufacturing, or other 
     sources of pollution or environmental degradation.
       Great Apes.--Of the funds provided to protect the habitat 
     of great apes in Central Africa and Indonesia, $8,500,000 
     shall be directly transferred to the United States Fish and 
     Wildlife Service and the agreement includes $5,500,000 for 
     USAID's orangutan conservation program.
       Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing.--
     USAID's Bureau for Development, Democracy, and Innovation and 
     Bureau for Resilience and Food Security are directed to work 
     together to address the fundamental system failures that 
     allow for IUU fishing to persist, jeopardizing economic, 
     environmental, and food security objectives, including 
     through new or expanded initiatives undertaken by the Bureau 
     for Resilience and Food Security.
       Marine Partnerships.--The agreement supports efforts by 
     United States research institutions to partner with marine 
     science researchers in developing countries, to improve 
     scientific knowledge and management practices that support 
     sustainably managed marine fish and other resources.
       Maya Biosphere Reserve.--The agreement includes funding for 
     tropical forest conservation in the Maya Biosphere Reserve, 
     of which not less than $2,500,000 shall be provided by direct 
     transfer to the Department of the Interior's International 
     Technical Assistance Program to: (1) strengthen environmental 
     governance; (2) expand community-based conservation 
     initiatives; (3) protect archeological sites; and (4) 
     encourage sustainable economic opportunities including in 
     Belize and Mexico. The agreement does not provide funding for 
     logging or the construction of roads, except for community 
     forest concessions and temporary roads in support of such 
     concessions.
       Methane Emissions Detection Technologies.--Not later than 
     90 days after the date of enactment of the Act, the Secretary 
     of State, in coordination with the Special Presidential Envoy 
     for Climate, shall consult with the Committees on 
     Appropriations on efforts to engage with stakeholders, such 
     as members of the Global Methane Initiative, on public-
     private partnerships to identify and mitigate methane 
     emissions.
       National Parks and Protected Areas.--Funds made available 
     for law enforcement in national parks and protected areas 
     shall only be made available pursuant to the directives 
     listed under this heading in the House report, and the 
     Secretary of State and USAID Administrator shall consult with 
     the Committees on Appropriations not later than 45 days after 
     the date of enactment of the Act on implementation of such 
     requirements.
       Ocean Plastic Pollution.--Pursuant to subsection (h), not 
     less than $50,000,000 shall be made available for programs to 
     reduce ocean plastic pollution and other marine debris. If 
     progress is made on a new global agreement for plastic 
     pollution, including for a multilateral fund to support such 
     agreement, or on a new international public-private 
     partnership to address plastics pollution, additional funds 
     are available in the Act to support such efforts.
       Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of the 
     Act, the Secretary of State and USAID Administrator, in 
     consultation with the heads of other relevant Federal 
     agencies, shall report to the Committees on Appropriations 
     on: (1) the status of negotiations for a global agreement on 
     plastic pollution; (2) progress made toward establishing a 
     new multilateral fund to reduce ocean plastic pollution and 
     other marine debris, including engagement with the World Bank 
     and other key bilateral and multilateral donors; (3) how such 
     fund would be structured, administered, and financed; (4) the 
     status of a new international public-private partnership to 
     address ocean pollution; and (5) efforts to implement ocean 
     plastic pollution programming to date, including support for 
     bilateral and multilateral programs.
       Plastic Impacted Marine Species.--The agreement includes 
     funds to be administered pursuant to 16 U.S.C. 3701 for cost-
     matching projects that protect marine species severely 
     impacted by marine plastic debris, and the USAID 
     Administrator shall consult with the Committees on 
     Appropriations prior to the obligation of such funds.
       Small Modular Reactors.--Not later than 120 days after the 
     date of enactment of the Act, the Secretary of State, in 
     consultation with the USAID Administrator, the DFC CEO, the 
     USTDA Director, and the heads of other relevant Federal 
     agencies, shall brief the Committees on Appropriations on 
     efforts to support deployment of advanced small modular 
     reactor technology for the purpose of increasing energy 
     independence and providing alternative access to clean 
     energy.
       United States Fish and Wildlife Service, United States 
     Forest Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
     Administration, and the Department of the Interior.--Funds 
     provided by direct transfer to United States Fish and 
     Wildlife Service (USFWS), United States Forest Service 
     (USFS), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration 
     (NOAA), and the Department of the Interior (DOI) shall be 
     transferred expeditiously and in a manner that is consistent 
     with prior fiscal years. Prior to the obligation and 
     expenditure of funds USFWS, USFS, NOAA, and DOI shall submit 
     spend plans to the Committees on Appropriations and USAID 
     detailing the intended uses of such funds. Prior to the 
     submission of spend plans, such agencies shall consult on the 
     intended uses of funds with USAID, as appropriate.
       Wildlife Poaching and Trafficking.--The agreement continues 
     to support the use of aircraft for antipoaching and protected 
     area management activities pursuant to the authority provided 
     in section 484(a)(2) of the FAA for transfer of title of 
     aircraft to support anti-poaching and protected area 
     management activities.
     Section 7062. Budget Documents (modified)
       Spend Plans.--The following spend plans shall be submitted 
     pursuant to section 7062(b) of the Act: (1) assistance for 
     countries in Central America (including for the youth 
     empowerment program on a country-by-country basis) and the 
     Caribbean, Ethiopia, PICs, Sri Lanka, and Tunisia; (2) 
     assistance for the Africa Regional Counterterrorism program, 
     Caribbean Basin Security Initiative, Central America Regional 
     Security Initiative, Counterterrorism Partnerships Fund, 
     Global Peace Operations Initiative, Indo-Pacific Strategy and 
     the CPRCIF, Partnership for Global Infrastructure and 
     Investment, Partnership for Regional East Africa 
     Counterterrorism, Power Africa and Prosper Africa 
     initiatives, and Trans-Saharan Counterterrorism Partnership; 
     (3) assistance made available pursuant to the following 
     sections in the Act: section 7032; section 7035(a)(4); 
     section 7047(d) (on a country-by-country basis); section 
     7059; and subsections (a), (c), (d), (e), (f) and (g) of 
     section 7060; (4) funds provided under International 
     Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement for International 
     Organized Crime and for Cybercrime and Intellectual Property 
     Rights, to include bilateral and global programs funded under 
     such heading; and (5) implementation of the Global Fragility 
     Act of 2019 (GFA) (title V of division J of Public Law 116-
     94).
     Section 7063. Reorganization (unchanged)
     Section 7064. Department of State Management (modified)
       Report on Compliance.--The report accompanying the 
     certification required in subsection (b)(1) shall include a 
     description of the criteria used by the Secretary of State to 
     certify that an office or bureau is capable of managing and 
     overseeing foreign assistance.
       Report on Sole Source Awards.--Not later than 45 days after 
     the date of enactment of the Act, the Secretary of State 
     shall submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations 
     detailing all sole source awards made by the Department of 
     State during the prior fiscal year in excess of $2,000,000, 
     which shall be posted on the Department website.
       Section 7065. United States Agency for International 
     Development Management (modified)
       Crisis Operations Staffing.--The agreement includes a new, 
     temporary authority for USAID to respond to foreign crises 
     and contexts with growing instability. Not later than 180 
     days after the date of enactment of the Act, the USAID 
     Administrator shall brief the appropriate congressional 
     committees on the implementation and impact of this 
     authority, and whether the benefits necessitate the 
     establishment of a more permanent authority.
       USAID Accountability Mechanism.--Not later than 60 days 
     after the date of enactment of the Act, the USAID 
     Administrator shall update the report required under this 
     heading in the explanatory statement accompanying division K 
     of Public Law 117-103.
     Section 7066. Stabilization and Development in Regions 
         Impacted by Extremism and Conflict (modified)
       Consolidated Report.--Not later than 45 days after the date 
     of enactment of the Act, and every 90 days thereafter until 
     September 30, 2023, the Secretary of State and USAID 
     Administrator shall submit a consolidated report to the 
     Committees on Appropriations containing updated information 
     on obligations and expenditures of the Prevention and 
     Stabilization Fund (PSF) on a country and program basis.

[[Page S9302]]

       Prevention and Stabilization Fund.--The agreement includes 
     $135,000,000 for the PSF as one source of funds for 
     implementation of the Global Fragility Act. The Secretary of 
     State and USAID Administrator shall prioritize the use of 
     such funds in countries with national and local governments 
     with the demonstrated political will and capacity to partner 
     on strengthening government legitimacy, and where the 
     objectives of the Global Fragility Act can also be measurably 
     advanced through support for civil society and enhanced 
     partner ownership. The Secretary of State and USAID 
     Administrator shall consult with the Committees on 
     Appropriations on the intended prioritization and allocation 
     of such funds not later than 60 days prior to submitting the 
     pre-obligation spend plans required by section 7062(b) of the 
     Act, and such consultations and spend plans shall include 
     detailed information on how sources other than the PSF are 
     being coordinated as part of implementation of the Global 
     Fragility Act.
     Section 7067. Debt-for-Development (unchanged)
     Section 7068. Extension of Consular Fees and Related 
         Authorities (modified)
     Section 7069. Management of International Transboundary Water 
         Pollution (new)
     Section 7070. Waiver Authority (new)
     Section 7071. Organization of American States (modified)
     Section 7072. Multilateral Development Banks (new)
     Section 7073. War Crimes Accountability (new)
     Section 7074. Rescissions (modified)
       The agreement rescinds $242,000,000 in prior year 
     unobligated balances. Of the total, $100,000,000 is from 
     unobligated Millennium Challenge Corporation balances, 
     $100,000,000 is from unobligated Contributions for 
     International Peacekeeping Activities balances, and 
     $42,000,000 is from unobligated Embassy Security, 
     Construction, and Maintenance balances.

   DISCLOSURE OF EARMARKS AND CONGRESSIONALLY DIRECTED SPENDING ITEMS

       Pursuant to clause 9 of rule XXI of the Rules of the House 
     of Representatives and rule XLIV of the Standing Rules of the 
     Senate, neither the bill nor the explanatory statement 
     contains any congressional earmarks or congressionally 
     directed spending items, limited tax benefits or limited 
     tariff benefits as defined in the applicable House and Senate 
     rules.

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