[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 39 (Tuesday, March 5, 2024)]
[Senate]
[Pages S1223-S2208]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  EXPLANATORY STATEMENT SUBMITTED BY MRS. MURRAY, CHAIR OF THE SENATE 
    COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS, REGARDING H.R. 4366, CONSOLIDATED 
                        APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2024

       The following is an explanation of the Consolidated 
     Appropriations Act, 2024.
       This Act includes 6 regular appropriations bills for fiscal 
     year 2024. The divisions contained in the Act are as follows:
        Division A--Military Construction, Veterans 
     Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024
        Division B--Agriculture, Rural Development, Food 
     and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations 
     Act, 2024
        Division C--Commerce, Justice, Science, and 
     Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024
        Division D--Energy and Water Development and 
     Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024
        Division E--Department of the Interior, 
     Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024
        Division F--Transportation, Housing and Urban 
     Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024
        Division G--Other Matters
       Section 1 of the Act is the short title of the bill.
       Section 2 of the Act displays a table of contents.
       Section 3 of the Act states that, unless expressly provided 
     otherwise, any reference to ``this Act'' contained in any 
     division shall be treated as referring only to the provisions 
     of that division.
       Section 4 of the Act states that this explanatory statement 
     shall have the same effect with respect to the allocation of 
     funds and implementation of this legislation as if it were a 
     joint explanatory statement of a committee of conference.
       Section 5 of the Act provides a statement of 
     appropriations.
       Section 6 of the Act states that each amount designated by 
     Congress as being for an emergency requirement is contingent 
     on the President so designating all such emergency amounts 
     and transmitting such designations to Congress.

   DIVISION A--MILITARY CONSTRUCTION, VETERANS AFFAIRS, AND RELATED 
                   AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2024

       The joint explanatory statement accompanying this division 
     is approved and indicates congressional intent. Unless 
     otherwise noted, the language set forth in House Report 118-
     122 and Senate Report 118-43 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 118-122, Senate Report 118-43 
     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.

[[Page S1224]]

       The 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.
       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 prior to carrying out any repair 
     project with an estimated cost in excess of $7,500,000.
     This language replaces the language under the heading 
     ``FSRM'' in House Report 118-122 and the language under the 
     heading ``Real Property Maintenance'' in Senate Report 118-
     43.
       Military Construction Funding.--The agreement includes 
     $18,675,000,000, which is $2,000,056,000 above the budget 
     request, in a continued effort to support current and future 
     force readiness through critical infrastructure investments. 
     This funds 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 again 
     encourage the Department to adequately resource these 
     accounts.
       Strategic Construction in the Indo-Pacific Region.--Since 
     fiscal year 2020 the Committees have provided more than 
     $128,000,000 above the budget request to assist Indo-Pacific 
     Command (INDOPACOM) in developing and executing military 
     construction projects that enhance U.S. posture and 
     partnerships in the region. The Committees are encouraged by 
     the Department's proposed INDOPACOM construction investments 
     and continue to fund additive efforts to effectively and 
     efficiently address infrastructure requirements. The 
     agreement provides $69,000,000 in planning and design and 
     $62,000,000 in unspecified minor construction as identified 
     on INDOPACOM's unfunded priorities list. Lastly, the 
     Committees note that the additional unspecified minor 
     construction funds provided are not limited to the Exercise 
     Related Construction program but are available for any 
     unspecified minor construction undertaken by INDOPACOM.
       Military Installation Resilience.--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 and carry out projects that mitigate 
     climate change risks to military installations. The 
     Committees believe that such investments are critical to 
     installation readiness and therefore provide $30,000,000 for 
     planning and design and unspecified minor construction in 
     section 128 to continue to develop projects, conduct studies 
     and analyses, and update Unified Facility Criteria that will 
     directly enhance military installation resilience.
       Child Development Centers (CDCs).--The Committees continue 
     to recognize the importance of access to childcare in 
     improving both readiness and quality of life for service 
     members and their families. The agreement includes 
     $336,320,000 for CDCs, which provides $276,820,000 for 
     construction of six new CDCs and $59,500,000 in planning and 
     design funding to help develop future construction projects. 
     The Committees encourage the Services to continue to focus on 
     improving and replacing aging facilities, especially at 
     underserved installations.
       Laboratory Infrastructure.--The Committees are concerned 
     that aging laboratory infrastructure threatens the ability of 
     Services to maintain the advanced technology necessary to 
     keep ahead of U.S. adversaries across all domains. 
     Accordingly, the agreement includes an additional $30,000,000 
     in section 129 for planning and design and unspecified minor 
     construction for laboratory infrastructure projects.
       Condition of DOD Barracks.--The Committees recognize 
     ensuring the quality of DOD unaccompanied housing as a 
     priority and provide resources throughout this bill for the 
     planning and design and construction of barracks totaling 
     $662,375,000. In addition, the Committees are concerned about 
     the findings identified in the Government Accountability 
     Office (GAO) report entitled, ``Military Barracks: Poor 
     Living Conditions Undermine Quality of Life and Readiness'' 
     (GAO-23-105797), and urge DOD to expeditiously address the 
     recommendations. The Committees believe that changes to DOD 
     policies and practices, such as establishing consistent 
     habitability standards, and consistently identifying and 
     addressing health and safety issues across the Services are 
     necessary to ensure quality unaccompanied housing for 
     servicemembers. As such, the agreement directs a report from 
     each of the Services on how they are addressing GAO's 
     recommendations, including a timeline for implementation, and 
     how they are making systemic changes to the quality of 
     barracks not later than 90 days after enactment of this Act.
       Demolition of Excess Infrastructure.--The agreement 
     includes $45,000,000 for unspecified minor military 
     construction for demolition to address excess and obsolete 
     infrastructure found on installations. While the Committees 
     understand the need to balance demolition with other 
     infrastructure needs, excess infrastructure can be costly to 
     maintain and diverts resources away from current 
     requirements.
       Incremental Funding.--The Committees recognize that 
     providing full funding for military construction projects if 
     they are executable is ideal. However, it continues to be the 
     practice of the Committees to provide incremental funding for 
     certain large projects to enable the Services to more 
     efficiently allocate military construction dollars among 
     projects that can be executed in the year of appropriation. 
     Therefore, the agreement includes eleven projects that have 
     been incrementally funded.
       Military Construction Funding Initiatives.--The agreement 
     includes funding to address important unfunded priorities and 
     cost to completes included in DOD's unfunded priority lists 
     provided to Congress. This includes an additional $8,214,000 
     for the Army, $182,150,000 for the Navy and Marine Corps, 
     $166,300,000 for the Air Force, $62,400,000 for Defense-Wide, 
     $66,815,000 for the Army National Guard, $5,200,000 for the 
     Air National Guard, and $23,000,000 for the Army Reserve.

                      Military Construction, Army

       The agreement provides $2,022,775,000 for ``Military 
     Construction, Army'', which is $552,220,000 above the budget 
     request. Within this amount, the agreement includes 
     $398,145,000 for study, planning, design, architecture, and 
     engineering services, and host nation support. Within the 
     total for Military Construction, Army, $522,220,000 is for 
     the following projects in the following amounts:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
            State                         Location                           Project                  Amount
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AL                            Anniston Army Depot.............  Access Control Point: Planning        $5,500,000
                                                                 and Design.
AL                            Anniston Army Depot.............  Component Rebuild Shop: Planning       8,100,000
                                                                 and Design.
AL                            Anniston Army Depot.............  Vehicle Paint Shop: Planning and       2,900,000
                                                                 Design.
AL                            Fort Novosel (Fort Rucker)......  Adv Individual Training Barracks      41,200,000
                                                                 Complex: Cost to Complete.
AL                            Fort Novosel (Fort Rucker)......  Aircraft Parts Storage Facility:       4,950,000
                                                                 Unspecified Minor Construction.
AL                            Fort Novosel (Fort Rucker)......  Army Radar Approach Control            7,000,000
                                                                 Facility: Unspecified Minor
                                                                 Construction.
AL                            Fort Novosel (Fort Rucker)......  Hazardous Material Storage             3,850,000
                                                                 Building: Unspecified Minor
                                                                 Construction.
AL                            Fort Novosel (Fort Rucker)......  Ready Building--MEDEVAC:               6,100,000
                                                                 Unspecified Minor Construction.
AL                            Fort Novosel (Fort Rucker)......  Vehicle Maintenance Storage            5,100,000
                                                                 Facility: Unspecified Minor
                                                                 Construction.
AL                            Redstone Arsenal................  Access Control Building:               4,000,000
                                                                 Unspecified Minor Construction.
AL                            Redstone Arsenal................  Airfield Fire and Rescue               5,600,000
                                                                 Station: Unspecified Minor
                                                                 Construction.
AL                            Redstone Arsenal................  Airport Runway Extension               5,500,000
                                                                 (Overruns): Unspecified Minor
                                                                 Construction.
AL                            Redstone Arsenal................  Natural Gas Expansion and Meter        4,800,000
                                                                 Station: Unspecified Minor
                                                                 Construction.
AL                            Redstone Arsenal................  Test Area 7 Relocation:                5,400,000
                                                                 Unspecified Minor Construction.
AK                            Fort Wainwright.................  Soldier Performance Readiness          7,900,000
                                                                 Center: Planning and Design.
GA                            Fort Moore (Fort Benning).......  Camp Merrill AST Barracks:             1,320,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
GA                            Fort Stewart/Hunter Army          Combat Aviation Brigade GSAB           6,400,000
                               Airfield.                         Hangar: Planning and Design.

[[Page S1225]]

 
GA                            Fort Stewart/Hunter Army          Military Intelligence Battalion        2,220,000
                               Airfield.                         Hangar: Planning and Design.
HI                            Fort Shafter....................  Clearwell and Booster Pump......      23,000,000
HI                            Helemano Military Reservation...  Well and Storage Tanks..........      33,000,000
HI                            Schofield Barracks..............  Elevated Tank and Distribution        16,000,000
                                                                 Line.
HI                            Schofield Barracks..............  Water Storage Tank..............      21,000,000
HI                            Wheeler Army Airfield...........  Air Traffic Control Tower:             5,400,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
KS                            Fort Riley......................  Air Traffic Control Tower:             1,600,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
KS                            Fort Riley......................  Automated Infantry Platoon             8,700,000
                                                                 Battle Course: Unspecified
                                                                 Minor Construction.
KS                            Fort Riley......................  Bob Dole Intermodal Railyard           1,110,000
                                                                 Improvements: Planning and
                                                                 Design.
LA                            Fort Johnson (Fort Polk)........  Multipurpose Athletic Field.....      13,400,000
MI                            Detroit Arsenal.................  Manned/Unmanned Tactical Vehicle       2,400,000
                                                                 Lab: Planning and Design.
NM                            White Sands Missile Range.......  El Paso Gate Access Control            3,600,000
                                                                 Point: Unspecified Minor
                                                                 Construction.
NM                            White Sands Missile Range.......  Guided Missile Building                5,600,000
                                                                 Expansion: Unspecified Minor
                                                                 Construction.
NM                            White Sands Missile Range.......  High Energy Laser Systems Test         4,450,000
                                                                 Facility Fire Station:
                                                                 Unspecified Minor Construction.
NM                            White Sands Missile Range.......  J-DETC Directed Energy Facility:       3,060,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
NM                            White Sands Missile Range.......  Main Post Fire Station:                8,200,000
                                                                 Unspecified Minor Construction.
NC                            Fort Liberty (Fort Bragg).......  Aircraft Maintenance Hangar.....      61,000,000
NC                            Fort Liberty (Fort Bragg).......  Child Development Center........      36,000,000
PA                            Letterkenny Army Depot..........  Component Rebuild Shop, Depot          2,500,000
                                                                 Level: Unspecified Minor
                                                                 Construction.
SC                            Fort Jackson....................  Reception Barracks Complex, Ph2:     101,000,000
                                                                 Cost to Complete.
TX                            Fort Bliss......................  Collective Training Barracks:          7,200,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
TX                            Fort Cavazos (Fort Hood)........  Barracks: Planning and Design...      19,800,000
WA                            Joint Base Lewis-McChord........  Barracks: Planning and Design...       7,900,000
WA                            Joint Base Lewis-McChord........  Vehicle Maintenance Shop:              7,500,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
WA                            Yakima Training Center..........  Automated Infantry Platoon               960,000
                                                                 Battle Course: Planning and
                                                                 Design.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

              Military Construction, Navy and Marine Corps

       The agreement provides $5,531,369,000 for ``Military 
     Construction, Navy and Marine Corps'', which is $490,818,000 
     below the budget request. Within this amount, the agreement 
     includes $711,505,000 for study, planning, design, 
     architecture, and engineering services. Within the total for 
     Military Construction, Navy and Marine Corps, $335,563,000 is 
     for the following projects in the following amounts:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
            State                         Location                           Project                  Amount
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AZ                            Marine Corps Air Station Yuma...  Water Treatment Plant: Planning       $8,900,000
                                                                 and Design.
CA                            Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton  Fire/Emergency Response Station        2,683,000
                                                                 (53 Area) Replacement: Planning
                                                                 and Design.
CA                            Naval Base Coronado.............  Child Development Center:              6,200,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
CA                            Naval Base San Diego............  Child Development Center:              5,600,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
FL                            Naval Air Station Whiting Field.  Advanced Helicopter Training          50,000,000
                                                                 System Hangar.
HI                            Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam..  Dry Dock 3 Replacement..........      90,000,000
HI                            Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam..  Waterfront Production Facility:       49,080,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
HI                            Marine Corps Base Hawaii........  Water Reclamation Facility           109,000,000
                                                                 Compliance Upgrade.
MD                            Naval Support Activity Bethesda.  Construct Joint Navy/DHA Fire          3,000,000
                                                                 Station: Planning and Design.
WA                            Naval Air Station Whidbey Island  E A-18G Aircraft Regional             11,100,000
                                                                 Service Facility: Planning and
                                                                 Design.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Infrastructure 
     Investments.--Reflecting concerns noted in House Report 118-
     122, the agreement directs the Assistant Secretary of the 
     Navy for Energy, Installations, and Environment, in 
     consultation with the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force 
     for Energy, Installations, and Environment to submit the 
     report requested in House Report 118-122.
       Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Plan (SIOP).--The 
     Committees continue to recognize the importance of SIOP and 
     the need to adequately resource investments in dry docks and 
     shore infrastructure as well as the development of future 
     projects. Therefore, in addition to fully funding the budget 
     request of $2,285,000,000, the agreement further provides 
     $164,080,000 above the request to advance design efforts and 
     address additional construction costs.
       The agreement reaffirms the Committees' belief that the 
     management and oversight of SIOP is key to the program's 
     success. As such, in lieu of the direction in House Report 
     118-122, the agreement directs the Comptroller General to 
     submit a report or reports, as necessary, on options for 
     improving the management and oversight of SIOP. The 
     Comptroller General should assess, at a minimum, the 
     following: (1) the Navy's acquisition strategy for procuring 
     services and managing projects for SIOP across the shipyards; 
     (2) the Navy's support to the public shipyards and local 
     shipyard construction agents; and (3) how the Navy's policies 
     and procedures for large facility improvements greater than 
     $500,000,000 compare to those of other Federal agencies. The 
     agreement further directs the Comptroller General to brief 
     the Committees on Appropriations of both Houses of Congress 
     on its preliminary findings not later than 180 days after 
     enactment of this Act, and to provide a full report on the 
     findings of each review to the Committees at a date agreed 
     upon at the preliminary briefing.

                    Military Construction, Air Force

       The agreement provides $2,741,424,000 for ``Military 
     Construction, Air Force'', which is $136,110,000 above the 
     budget request. Within this amount, the agreement includes 
     $567,874,000 for study, planning, design, architecture, and 
     engineering services. Within the total for Military 
     Construction, Air Force, $193,610,000 is for the following 
     projects in the following amounts:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
            State                         Location                           Project                  Amount
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AL                            Maxwell Air Force Base..........  Construct Addition, Air Command       $5,100,000
                                                                 and Staff College (Bldg 1402):
                                                                 Unspecified Minor Construction.
AL                            Maxwell Air Force Base..........  Replace (Construct) Gunter             8,800,000
                                                                 Fitness Center: Unspecified
                                                                 Minor Construction.
AK                            Eielson Air Force Base..........  Coal Thaw Shed Addition:               1,500,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
AK                            Eielson Air Force Base..........  Consolidated Munitions Complex:       15,100,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
AK                            Eielson Air Force Base..........  Cryogenics Facility: Unspecified       6,900,000
                                                                 Minor Construction.
AK                            Eielson Air Force Base..........  Fire Station: Planning and             1,700,000
                                                                 Design.
AK                            Eielson Air Force Base..........  Joint Mobility Center Expansion:       3,000,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
AK                            Eielson Air Force Base..........  Joint Pacific Alaska Range            13,500,000
                                                                 Complex Ops Facility: Planning
                                                                 and Design.
AK                            Eielson Air Force Base..........  Permanent Party Dorm: Planning         9,500,000
                                                                 and Design.
AK                            Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson.  Combat Alert Cell: Planning and       18,100,000
                                                                 Design.
AK                            Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson.  Precision Guided Munitions             6,100,000
                                                                 Complex: Planning and Design.
AK                            Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson.  Sand Storage Facility:                 8,800,000
                                                                 Unspecified Minor Construction.
AZ                            Luke Air Force Base.............  Child Development Center:              2,700,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
AZ                            Luke Air Force Base.............  Gila Bend Consolidated Facility:       2,200,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
FL                            Eglin Air Force Base............  LRSO Hardware Software                14,600,000
                                                                 Development & Test Facility.
LA                            Barksdale Air Force Base........  WGF Dormitory: Planning and            6,700,000
                                                                 Design.
MS                            Columbus Air Force Base.........  T-7A Egress Shop: Unspecified          4,600,000
                                                                 Minor Construction.
MS                            Columbus Air Force Base.........  T-7A Hush House Pad: Unspecified       4,850,000
                                                                 Minor Construction.
MS                            Keesler Air Force Base..........  Air Traffic Control Tower:             1,960,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
NE                            Offutt Air Force Base...........  55 CES Maintenance/Warehouse:          3,500,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
NE                            Offutt Air Force Base...........  Base Operations/Mobility Center:       3,000,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
NE                            Offutt Air Force Base...........  Logistics Readiness Squadron           2,700,000
                                                                 Transportation Facility:
                                                                 Planning and Design.
NE                            Offutt Air Force Base...........  Replace Vehicle Search Area,           7,000,000
                                                                 STRATCOM Gate, B511:
                                                                 Unspecified Minor
                                                                 Construction....
NV                            Nellis Air Force Base...........  Dormitory: Planning and Design..       7,500,000
NM                            Cannon Air Force Base...........  Satellite Fire Station: Planning       2,000,000
                                                                 and Design.
OH                            Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.  Acquisition Management Complex        18,000,000
                                                                 Phase V: Planning and Design.
OK                            Tinker Air Force Base...........  F-35 Aircraft Oxygen Shop:             5,800,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
OK                            Vance Air Force Base............  Undergraduate Pilot Training           8,400,000
                                                                 Center: Planning and Design.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Ground Based Strategic Deterrent (GBSD) Infrastructure.--
     The Committees support the Sentinel program and believe 
     effective planning and deliberate budgeting for military 
     construction are critical to the program's success, but are 
     concerned about potential cost growth and schedule delays. 
     The agreement includes $140,000,000, as requested, for

[[Page S1226]]

     three projects to construct integrated command and training 
     centers, as well as a missile handling complex. Recognizing 
     the significant future investments needed and complex 
     military construction environment moving forward, the 
     Committees direct the Secretary of the Air Force to continue 
     providing quarterly briefings on the infrastructure needs 
     related to the Sentinel program.
       U.S. Space Command.--The Committees recognize Section 2889 
     of the 2024 National Defense Authorization Act addresses the 
     selection of the location for the United States Space Command 
     Headquarters and restricts authorization for facilities 
     related to the Headquarters until June 30, 2024. The 
     Committees look forward to the completion of the reviews of 
     the site selection process being conducted by the Inspector 
     General of the Department of Defense and the Comptroller 
     General of the United States, and in addition to the report 
     on obligations and expenditures requested in House Report 
     118-122 and in Senate Report 118-43, the Department shall 
     report to the congressional defense committees on the 
     permanent location of the United States Space Command and a 
     plan to fully address all recommendations of the Inspector 
     General and Comptroller General.

                  Military Construction, Defense-Wide


                     (including transfer of funds)

       The agreement provides $3,161,782,000 for ``Military 
     Construction, Defense-Wide'', which is $177,100,000 above the 
     budget request. Within this amount, the agreement includes 
     $347,545,000 for study, planning, design, architecture, and 
     engineering services. Within the total for Military 
     Construction, Defense-Wide, $36,100,000 is for the following 
     projects in the following amounts:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
            State                         Location                           Project                  Amount
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DE                            Dover Air Force Base............  Blood Processing Center              $30,600,000
                                                                 Replacement.
GA                            Fort Moore (Fort Benning).......  Dexter Elementary School                 500,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
NE                            Offutt Air Force Base...........  DPAA Laboratory: Planning and          5,000,000
                                                                 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 $634,250,000 for ERCIP.

               Military Construction, Army National Guard

       The agreement provides $620,647,000 for ``Military 
     Construction, Army National Guard'', which is $280,461,000 
     above the budget request. Within this amount, the agreement 
     includes $79,221,000 for study, planning, design, 
     architecture, and engineering services. Within the total for 
     Military Construction, Army National Guard, $270,461,000 is 
     for the following projects in the following amounts:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
            State                         Location                           Project                  Amount
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CA                            Camp Roberts....................  Automated Multipurpose Machine        $5,000,000
                                                                 Gun Range: Cost to Complete.
FL                            Camp Blanding...................  Automated Multipurpose Machine        11,000,000
                                                                 Gun Range.
FL                            Camp Blanding...................  Infantry Squad Battle Course:            840,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
FL                            Camp Blanding...................  Training Aids Center: Planning         1,200,000
                                                                 and Design.
IL                            Bloomington.....................  National Guard Vehicle                 5,250,000
                                                                 Maintenance Shop: Cost to
                                                                 Complete.
IL                            Chicago, Jones Armory...........  General Jones National Guard           5,000,000
                                                                 Readiness Center Alteration:
                                                                 Planning and Design.
IL                            North Riverside.................  Access Control Building:               3,400,000
                                                                 Unspecified Minor Construction.
IL                            Peoria..........................  Readiness Center: Planning and         2,400,000
                                                                 Design.
KS                            Topeka..........................  National Guard/Reserve Center          5,856,000
                                                                 Building: Cost to Complete.
ME                            Saco............................  National Guard Vehicle                 7,420,000
                                                                 Maintenance Shop: Cost to
                                                                 Complete.
MN                            Camp Ripley.....................  Access Control Facility:               1,530,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
MS                            Meridian........................  Army Aviation Support Facility         2,160,000
                                                                 3: Planning and Design.
MS                            Southaven.......................  National Guard Readiness Center.      22,000,000
NE                            Mead Training Site..............  Unaccompanied Housing: Planning        1,440,000
                                                                 and Design.
NV                            Floyd Edsall Training Center....  Combined Support Maintenance           2,700,000
                                                                 Shop: Planning and Design.
NV                            Floyd Edsall Training Center....  General Instruction Facility:          5,490,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
NV                            Harry Reid Training Center......  Ready Building: Planning and             590,000
                                                                 Design.
NH                            Center Strafford................  Physical Fitness Center:               9,000,000
                                                                 Unspecified Minor Construction.
NH                            Pembroke........................  Vehicle Storage Building:              5,000,000
                                                                 Unspecified Minor Construction.
NJ                            Newark..........................  National Guard Readiness Center:       1,900,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
NM                            De Bremond Training Site........  Soldier Performance, ACFT              4,300,000
                                                                 Support Building: Unspecified
                                                                 Minor Construction.
NY                            Lexington Armory................  National Guard Readiness Center       90,000,000
                                                                 Addition/Alteration.
OK                            Shawnee.........................  National Guard Readiness Center:       1,800,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
PA                            Fort Indiantown Gap.............  Automated Multipurpose Machine         1,550,000
                                                                 Gun Range: Planning and Design.
PA                            Moon Township...................  Combined Support Maintenance           3,100,000
                                                                 Shop: Cost to Complete.
PA                            New Castle......................  Vehicle Maintenance Shop               4,650,000
                                                                 Addition: Unspecified Minor
                                                                 Construction.
RI                            North Kingstown.................  National Guard Readiness Center.      30,000,000
SC                            Joint Base Charleston...........  National Guard Readiness Center:       6,500,000
                                                                 Cost to Complete.
TX                            Fort Cavazos (Fort Hood)........  General Purpose Instruction            2,685,000
                                                                 Building: Planning and Design.
VT                            Ethan Allen Firing Range........  National Guard Readiness Center        4,750,000
                                                                 Add/Alt: Unspecified Minor
                                                                 Construction.
WA                            Camp Murray.....................  National Guard/Reserve Center:         3,600,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
WV                            Bluefield.......................  National Guard Readiness Center:       1,950,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
WV                            Camp Dawson-Kingwood............  Covered Training Area:                 8,300,000
                                                                 Unspecified Minor Construction.
WV                            Charleston......................  National Guard Readiness Center:       4,800,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
WV                            Parkersburg.....................  National Guard Readiness Center:       3,300,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

               Military Construction, Air National Guard

       The agreement provides $295,526,000 for ``Military 
     Construction, Air National Guard'', which is $116,804,000 
     above the budget request. Within this amount, the agreement 
     includes $68,454,000 for study, planning, design, 
     architecture, and engineering services. Within the total for 
     Military Construction, Air National Guard, $123,804,000 is 
     for the following projects in the following amounts:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
            State                         Location                           Project                  Amount
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AK                            Eielson Air Force Base..........  AMC Standard Dual Bay Hangar:        $25,000,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
AK                            Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson.  ADAL Alert Crew Facility Hangar        7,000,000
                                                                 18: Unspecified Minor
                                                                 Construction.
AK                            Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson.  HC-130J Simulator Facility:            2,000,000
                                                                 Planning and Design.
AK                            Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson.  North Campus Electrical Loop:          5,600,000
                                                                 Unspecified Minor Construction.
FL                            Jacksonville International        F-35 Munitions Storage Area              600,000
                               Airport.                          Admin: Planning and Design.
ME                            Bangor International Airport....  Repair Hangar Access Apron             1,450,000
                                                                 (Light Duty Ramp): Planning and
                                                                 Design.
ME                            Bangor International Airport....  Repair Whiskey Apron: Planning           704,000
                                                                 and Design.
MS                            Jackson International Airport...  Fire Crash and Rescue Station:         8,000,000
                                                                 Cost to Complete.
NH                            Pease Air National Guard Base...  Ground Product Service Station:        4,000,000
                                                                 Unspecified Minor Construction.
NJ                            Atlantic City International       Consolidated Dining, Services,         2,000,000
                               Airport.                          and Fitness Center: Planning
                                                                 and Design.
NJ                            Atlantic City International       F-16 Mission Training Center:          1,100,000
                               Airport.                          Planning and Design.
OR                            Portland International Airport..  Special Tactics Complex Phase 3.      20,000,000
OR                            Portland International Airport..  Special Tactics Complex Phase 4.      11,000,000
PA                            Pittsburgh International Airport  Entry Control Facility:                8,000,000
                                                                 Unspecified Minor Construction.
WV                            McLaughlin Air National Guard     Renovate Building 109 for              3,000,000
                               Base.                             Aerospace Support Equipment:
                                                                 Unspecified Minor Construction.
WV                            Shepherd Field..................  Indoor Small Arms Range:               7,000,000
                                                                 Unspecified Minor Construction.
WV                            Shepherd Field..................  Main Gate Entry Control Point          6,000,000
                                                                 Renovation: Unspecified Minor
                                                                 Construction.
WI                            General Mitchell International    Indoor Small Arms Range:               7,100,000
                               Airport.                          Unspecified Minor Construction.
WI                            General Mitchell International    POL Pipeline: Unspecified Minor        4,250,000
                               Airport.                          Construction.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                  Military Construction, Army Reserve

       The agreement provides $151,076,000 for ``Military 
     Construction, Army Reserve'', which is $44,000,000 above the 
     budget request. Within this amount, the agreement includes 
     $27,389,000 for study, planning, design, architecture, and 
     engineering services. Within the total for Military 
     Construction, Army Reserve, $44,000,000 is for the following 
     projects in the following amounts:

[[Page S1227]]



----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
            State                         Location                           Project                  Amount
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CA                            Fort Hunter Liggett.............  Network Enterprise Center.......     $40,000,000
VA                            Richmond........................  Army Reserve Center: Planning          4,000,000
                                                                 and Design.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                  Military Construction, Navy Reserve

       The agreement provides $51,291,000 for ``Military 
     Construction, Navy Reserve'', which is equal to the budget 
     request. Within this amount, the agreement includes 
     $6,495,000 for study, planning, design, architecture, and 
     engineering services.

                Military Construction, Air Force Reserve

       The agreement provides $331,572,000 for ``Military 
     Construction, Air Force Reserve'', which is $40,000,000 above 
     the budget request. Within this amount, the agreement 
     includes $14,646,000 for study, planning, design, 
     architecture, and engineering services. Within the total for 
     Military Construction, Air Force Reserve, $40,000,000 is for 
     the following projects in the following amounts:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
            State                         Location                           Project                  Amount
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AZ                            Davis Monthan Air Force Base....  Guardian Angel POTFF Facility:        $8,500,000
                                                                 Unspecified Minor Construction.
GA                            Dobbins Air Reserve Base........  Security Forces Facility........      22,000,000
LA                            Barksdale Air Force Base........  307 Bomb Wing Medical Facility         7,000,000
                                                                 Addition: Unspecified Minor
                                                                 Construction.
OH                            Youngstown Air Reserve Station..  Fire Station: Planning and             2,500,000
                                                                 Design.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

     North Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment Program

       The agreement provides $293,434,000 for the ``North 
     Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment Program,'' 
     which is equal to the budget request.

               Department of Defense Base Closure Account

       The agreement provides $489,174,000 for the ``Department of 
     Defense Base Closure Account'', which is $100,000,000 above 
     the budget request.
       Environmental Remediation.--As the Committees continue to 
     be concerned about the extent of per- and polyfluoroalkyl 
     substance (PFAS) contamination at closed U.S. military 
     installations, the agreement includes an additional 
     $50,000,000 above the budget request to increase the pace of 
     cleanup at the military installations affected by PFAS. 
     Recognizing the active costs associated with ordnance 
     disposal and other environmental cleanup requirements, the 
     agreement also provides additional funding for the Services 
     to remediate hazardous environmental sites at installations 
     closed under previous Base Closure and Realignment rounds. 
     Further, the agreement recognizes the Navy's efforts towards 
     the demolition and 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. The Services are directed to submit a spend plan 
     for all additional funding to the Committees no later than 60 
     days after enactment of this Act.

                             Family Housing


                            Item of Interest

       Housing Oversight.--The Committees continue to be concerned 
     about poor housing conditions, inadequate maintenance 
     response times, and other issues affecting the wellbeing of 
     servicemembers and their families. The Committees believe 
     that robust oversight over Military Housing Privatization 
     Initiative (MHPI) management companies is necessary to ensure 
     that servicemembers and their families can live in quality 
     housing that is properly maintained. The agreement provides 
     $30,000,000 above the budget request for oversight of DOD's 
     housing portfolio, including government-owned and controlled 
     family housing, privatized family, and unaccompanied housing. 
     The Committees expect this funding to be utilized by the 
     Services to improve their oversight of their housing 
     portfolios, including housing inspections and improved 
     training for individuals conducting those inspections. The 
     Committees are concerned that current practices, such as 
     inspections during tenant changes, are not being carried out 
     consistently in all cases. The Committees recognize that 
     changes in culture and procedures are necessary, in addition 
     to funding, to achieve sufficient oversight of all DOD 
     housing. The Committees direct the Services to continue to 
     review their training and inspection processes, among other 
     methods for ensuring quality housing and holding privatized 
     housing partners accountable, to ensure they are providing 
     proper management of their housing portfolios, and request a 
     briefing on such efforts no later than 120 days after 
     enactment of this Act.

                   Family Housing Construction, Army

       The agreement provides $304,895,000 for ``Family Housing 
     Construction, Army'', which is equal to the budget request.

             Family Housing Operation and Maintenance, Army

       The agreement provides $395,485,000 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 $277,142,000 for ``Family Housing 
     Construction, Navy and Marine Corps'', which is equal to the 
     budget request.

    Family Housing Operation and Maintenance, Navy and Marine Corps

       The agreement provides $373,854,000 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 $237,097,000 for ``Family Housing 
     Construction, Air Force'', which is equal to the budget 
     request.

          Family Housing Operation and Maintenance, Air Force

       The agreement provides $324,386,000 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 $50,785,000 for ``Family Housing 
     Operation and Maintenance, Defense-Wide'', which is equal to 
     the budget request.

                         Department of Defense

                    Family Housing Improvement Fund

       The agreement provides $6,611,000 for the ``Department of 
     Defense Family Housing Improvement Fund'', which is equal to 
     the budget request.

                         Department of Defense

            Military Unaccompanied Housing Improvement Fund

       The agreement provides $496,000 for the ``Department of 
     Defense Military Unaccompanied Housing Improvement Fund'', 
     which is equal to 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.

[[Page S1228]]

       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, 
     fiscal year 2018, and fiscal year 2019 projects that have not 
     lapsed.
       The agreement includes section 127 defining the 
     congressional defense committees.
       The agreement includes section 128 providing additional 
     funds for planning and design and unspecified minor 
     construction in order to improve military installation 
     resilience.
       The agreement includes section 129 providing additional 
     funds for planning and design and unspecified minor 
     construction for DOD laboratory facilities.
       The agreement includes section 130 providing the Air Force 
     with funds for natural disaster recovery.
       The agreement includes section 131 providing additional 
     funds for planning and design of child development centers.
       The agreement includes section 132 providing additional 
     funds for planning and design for barracks.
       The agreement includes section 133 providing additional 
     funds specified to address cost increases identified 
     subsequent to the fiscal year 2024 budget request for 
     authorized major construction projects.
       The agreement includes section 134 providing additional 
     funds for unspecified minor construction for demolition.
       The agreement includes section 135 allowing the transfer of 
     funds to the Secretary of the Navy from the Family Housing 
     Improvement Fund.
       The agreement includes section 136 providing funding for 
     unfunded authorized major construction projects.
       The agreement includes section 137 providing funds for 
     planning and design and authorized major construction at 
     future foreign military training sites.
       The agreement includes section 138 prohibiting the use of 
     funds in this Act to close or realign Naval Station 
     Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.

                                TITLE II

                     DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS

                    Veterans Benefits Administration


                       COMPENSATION AND PENSIONS

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The agreement provides $182,310,515,000 for Compensation 
     and Pensions in advance for fiscal year 2025. Of the amount 
     provided, not more than $22,109,000 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. 
     The agreement provides an additional $15,072,388,000 above 
     the fiscal year 2024 advance appropriation for the 
     Compensation and Pensions account.


                         READJUSTMENT BENEFITS

       The agreement provides $13,399,805,000 for Readjustment 
     Benefits in advance for fiscal year 2025. The agreement 
     provides an additional $374,852,000 above the fiscal year 
     2024 advance appropriation for the Readjustment Benefits 
     account.
       Veteran Employment Through Technology Education Courses.--
     The Committees expect the Department to fully fund the 
     program consistent with current law, and encourage VA to take 
     steps to expand the program to address increased demand, by 
     including additional providers, particularly in areas of the 
     country where the initiative is not currently available, as 
     well as to help train and employ women veterans and veterans 
     with disabilities.
       Veteran Transitional Assistance Grant Program (VTAG).--The 
     Committees continue to support VTAG and include an additional 
     $5,000,000 above the fiscal year 2023 level, as requested.


                   VETERANS INSURANCE AND INDEMNITIES

       The agreement provides $135,119,422 for Veterans Insurance 
     and Indemnities in advance for fiscal year 2025. The 
     agreement provides an additional $12,701,000 above the fiscal 
     year 2024 advance appropriation for the Veterans Insurance 
     and Indemnities account.


                 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 $316,742,419 to be available for administrative 
     expenses.
       Home Loan Guaranty Program.--The agreement notes the 
     Committees are concerned about the impact that the expiration 
     of emergency authorities is having on veterans who were 
     seeking loan forbearance during the COVID-19 pandemic for VA-
     guaranteed loans. While understanding that VA lacks legal 
     authority to require servicers to pause foreclosures, VA must 
     do everything in its power to quickly institute regulations 
     for a new program to assist veterans facing foreclosure. The 
     Department is directed to provide a briefing to the 
     Committees on Appropriations of both Houses of Congress, no 
     later than 90 days after enactment of this Act, with 
     information including the number of VA-guaranteed loans for 
     which servicers will not pause foreclosures, and efforts 
     undertaken to assist the nearly 4,000 veterans whose VA-
     guaranteed loans were foreclosed, as well as those who 
     avoided foreclosure by accepting new loans with highly 
     unfavorable terms.


            VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION LOANS PROGRAM ACCOUNT

       The agreement provides $78,337 for the cost of direct loans 
     from the Vocational Rehabilitation Loans Program Account, 
     plus $460,698 to be paid to the appropriation for General 
     Operating Expenses, Veterans Benefits Administration. The 
     agreement provides for a direct loan limitation of 
     $2,026,000.
       The agreement provides for loans of up to $1,447 (based on 
     the indexed chapter 31 subsistence allowance rate) to 
     service-connected disabled veterans enrolled in vocational 
     rehabilitation programs, as provided under 38 U.S.C. chapter 
     31.


          NATIVE AMERICAN VETERAN HOUSING LOAN PROGRAM ACCOUNT

       The agreement provides $2,718,546 for administrative 
     expenses of the Native American Veteran Housing Loan Program 
     Account. This is an increase of $1,318,546 over the fiscal 
     year 2023 level.


      GENERAL OPERATING EXPENSES, VETERANS BENEFITS ADMINISTRATION

       The agreement provides $3,899,000,000 for General Operating 
     Expenses, Veterans Benefits Administration and, of the amount 
     provided, up to 10 percent is available for obligation until 
     September 30, 2025. In addition, VA estimates to use 
     $1,769,000,000 from the Toxic Exposures Fund to support GOE, 
     VBA activities related to toxic exposures in fiscal year 
     2024.
       Compensation and Pension (C&P) Claims and Medical Exams.--
     The Committees are reassured that the expected increase in 
     disability claim applications by veterans because of new 
     eligibilities in the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson 
     Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) 
     Act of 2022 (Public Law 117-168) is being realized. However, 
     the Committees are concerned about a growing disability 
     claims backlog and limited oversight of contracted providers 
     for medical exams. As described in House Report 118-122 and 
     Senate Report 118-43, the agreement continues to strongly 
     encourage the implementation of special training protocols 
     and oversight of C&P medical exams, especially for claims 
     related to military sexual trauma.
       In addition to the reporting requirements in Senate Report 
     118-43 on ``Contract Providers for Exams'', the agreement 
     directs the Department to submit a report to the Committees 
     on Appropriations of both Houses of Congress no later than 
     180 days after enactment of this Act on the use of third-
     party contractors to conduct medical disability examinations 
     of veterans for purposes of obtaining disability 
     compensation. The report should include the number of 
     contractors used in each state to conduct disability 
     compensation exams; contract performance and quality 
     measures; the average miles a veteran is required to travel 
     to attend a contract medical disability examination 
     disaggregated by state; the average wait time for an 
     individual to receive an exam; and a description of the 
     process at the Department for handling complaints of veterans 
     about their experience with a contracted medical disability 
     examiner.

                     Veterans Health Administration

       For fiscal year 2024, the agreement provides a total of 
     $121,011,303,000 for VA's medical care, equal to the budget 
     request, and in accordance with agreements related to the 
     Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023 (Public Law 118-5). In 
     addition, VA estimates to use $17,116,000,000 from the Toxic 
     Exposures Fund to support medical care, for a total of 
     $138,127,303,000 in medical care funding in fiscal year 2024.


                           Items of Interest

       American Indian/Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, Pacific 
     Islander and U.S.-Affiliated Pacific Islander Veterans.--The 
     agreement reaffirms the Committees' appreciation for American 
     Indian/Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander and 
     U.S.-Affiliated Pacific Islander military service and 
     recognizes the challenges they have in securing the benefits 
     they have earned. As described in House Report 118-122 and 
     Senate Report 118-43, the agreement continues to require 
     reporting on efforts to improve and expand access to 
     benefits, mental health, preventative and wellness programs, 
     telehealth, among other programs, and reduce homelessness, 
     among these veteran populations. The

[[Page S1229]]

     agreement continues to support the establishment of the 
     Center for Native Hawaiians, Pacific Islanders, and U.S.-
     Affiliated Pacific Islanders Health.
       Child Care Assistance Expansion.--The Committees are 
     disappointed in the Department's slower than anticipated 
     progress to expand child care assistance to veterans 
     receiving healthcare at all VA medical facilities by January 
     5, 2026, as required by the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, 
     M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 
     2020 (Public Law 116-315). The agreement directs the 
     Department to brief the Committees on Appropriations of both 
     Houses of Congress no later than 30 days after enactment of 
     this Act on the status of the regulatory process, the new 
     timeline for expansion to the planned number of sites, and 
     progress on completing the information technology systems 
     necessary for this expansion. Further, the agreement directs 
     the Department to include cost estimates, timelines, and 
     actions taken by the Department in the justifications 
     accompanying the fiscal year 2025 budget submission. The 
     Committees encourage the Department to re-evaluate under 
     which program office the child care program should reside.
       Special Modes of Transportation.--The Committees 
     acknowledge the Department's actions to postpone the final 
     effective date for reimbursement rates for ground and air 
     ambulance services. Before modifying these rates in 
     accordance with the new timeline, the Department is directed 
     to communicate directly with service providers to fully 
     understand the impact of the proposed rule change on 
     veterans. Further, the Department should identify staff 
     dedicated to facilitating contracting with providers of these 
     services at fair and appropriate reimbursement rates, to 
     include providing technical assistance on the contracting 
     process, and to provide support for entities who are 
     beginning the contracting process for the first time. The 
     agreement directs the Department to report back to the 
     Committees on Appropriations of both Houses of Congress no 
     later than 90 days after enactment of this Act on the 
     feedback received from industry stakeholders and its plan for 
     ensuring zero harm to veterans.
       Congressional Oversight.--The agreement does not include 
     the direction regarding congressional oversight in the 
     overview to Title II of House Report 118-122.


                            MEDICAL SERVICES

                    (INCLUDING RESCISSION OF FUNDS)

       The agreement provides $71,000,000,000 in advance for 
     fiscal year 2025 for Medical Services, with $2,000,000,000 
     available through fiscal year 2026. The Committees provided 
     an advance appropriation of $74,004,000,000 for fiscal year 
     2024 for the Medical Services account in Public Law 117-328. 
     The agreement includes a negative adjustment to the fiscal 
     year 2024 advance of $3,034,205,000, which provides the 
     Department with total budget authority of $70,969,795,000, 
     consistent with the revised request.
       In addition, VA estimates to use $9,525,428,000 from the 
     Toxic Exposures Fund to support medical services in fiscal 
     year 2024. VA also has the authority to retain co-payments 
     and third-party collections.

                       Caregiver Support Program

       The agreement includes $2,422,410,000 for VA's Caregivers 
     Program, and continues the requirement for quarterly 
     reporting on obligations.
       Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers 
     (PCAFC) Program.--The Committees support the Department's 
     decision to suspend reassessments and discharges for legacy 
     PCAFC participants, and again urges the Secretary to permit 
     recently disqualified and denied applicants with a history in 
     the program to have their applications automatically 
     reconsidered under current requirements, rather than go 
     through the appeals process.

                         Centers of Excellence

       Neurology Centers of Excellence.--The Committees recognize 
     the increasing number of veterans affected by neurologic 
     conditions, including epilepsy, headache, multiple sclerosis, 
     and Parkinson's disease. The Neurology Centers of Excellence 
     provide essential innovative clinical care, education, and 
     research efforts focused on these conditions. Further 
     investment and collaboration of the Centers across 
     disciplines is encouraged, and the agreement includes 
     $70,000,000 for Neurology Centers of Excellence, $10,460,000 
     over the budget request and $20,460,000 over the fiscal year 
     2023 enacted level. This includes $25,000,000 for epilepsy; 
     $24,000,000 for headache; $14,500,000 for Parkinson's; and 
     $6,500,000 for multiple sclerosis.
       National Center for Post-traumatic Stress Disorder 
     (PTSD).--Recognizing the importance of VA's National Center 
     for PTSD in promoting better prevention, diagnoses and 
     treatment of PTSD, the agreement provides $42,000,000 for the 
     Center, as requested.
       Airborne Hazards and Burn Pits Center of Excellence.--The 
     agreement provides $15,000,000 and continues to support the 
     Airborne Hazards and Burn Pits Center of Excellence on 
     diagnoses, mitigation, and treatment of conditions related to 
     airborne hazards and burn pits.

                      Homeless Assistance Programs

       The agreement supports $3,113,530,000 for programs to 
     prevent veteran homelessness, including $774,744,000 for 
     Supportive Services for Veterans Families (SSVF), 
     $620,000,000 for the Department of Housing and Urban 
     Development-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH), 
     $306,161,000 for Grant and Per Diem (GPD) programs, and 
     $109,721,000 for the Veterans Justice Outreach program and 
     Legal Services for Veterans grants.
       HUD-VASH Case Management.--As included in House Report 118-
     122 and Senate Report 118-43, the agreement directs VA to 
     increase funding for case managers commensurate with 
     increases in the Department of Housing and Urban 
     Development's budget for new HUD-VASH vouchers. The 
     Committees are frustrated by the lack of progress in 
     publishing joint VA-HUD guidance regarding approval of a 
     Public Housing Authority to be a designated service provider. 
     The Committees expect to see the necessary guidance published 
     not later than 90 days after enactment of this Act, and 
     direct the Department to coordinate with the Department of 
     Housing and Urban Development and brief the Committees on 
     Appropriations of both Houses of Congress no later than 30 
     days after enactment of this Act with an update on the 
     progress and timeline for publishing its guidance.

             Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Programs

       The agreement provides $16,243,469,000 in discretionary 
     funds for mental health programs, of which $558,794,000 is 
     for suicide prevention outreach, including $300,500,000 for 
     the Veterans Crisis Line (VCL), fully supporting the request. 
     In addition to reporting requirements outlined in House 
     Report 118-122 and Senate Report 118-43, VA is directed to 
     ensure appropriate staffing for call centers and back-up 
     centers, provide training necessary for the VCL staff to 
     assist veterans in crisis, and ensure staff are able to 
     respond to the needs of veterans appropriately and 
     effectively. Additionally, the Committees direct VA to enable 
     the VCL to utilize geolocation capabilities to facilitate 
     accurate emergency dispatch to persons at risk of imminent 
     harm to self or others. The Committees direct VA to focus on 
     efforts to address parking lot suicides and to connect 
     veterans to care. The Committees recognize the importance of 
     suicide prevention coordinators and direct VA to fully staff 
     these positions and improve veterans' access to these 
     coordinators.

       Opioid Safety Initiatives and Substance Use Disorder Care

       The Committees recognize the importance of intervention and 
     support programs for at-risk veterans and their families. The 
     agreement includes $715,365,000 for Opioid Prevention and 
     Treatment programs, which is $52,560,000 above the fiscal 
     year 2023 enacted level. Of this total, $254,487,000 is to 
     continue implementation of the Jason Simcakoski Memorial and 
     Promise Act, as part of the Comprehensive Addiction and 
     Recovery Act of 2016 (Public Law 114-198) and $230,947,000 
     for Substance Use Disorder programs.

                              Rural Health

       The agreement provides $342,455,000 for the Office of Rural 
     Health and the Rural Health Initiative, which is $5,000,000 
     above both the fiscal year 2023 enacted level and budget 
     request. The Committees recognize the challenges and barriers 
     to care for more than 3,000,000 enrolled rural and remote 
     veterans and directs the Office of Rural Health to expand and 
     improve transportation access to and from facilities that 
     serve rural veterans.
       Rural Access Network for Growth Enhancement (RANGE).--The 
     RANGE Program provides case management and treatment services 
     to mentally ill veterans in rural areas. The agreement 
     includes sufficient funding to maintain the three new centers 
     of the RANGE Program, as authorized by the Sgt. Ketchum Rural 
     Veterans Mental Health Act of 2021 (Public Law 117-21).

                     Telehealth and Connected Care

       The agreement provides $5,170,336,000 for Telehealth and 
     Connected Care services, which is $5,000,000 above the budget 
     request. The Committees direct VA to continue to expand 
     telehealth availability, including mental health, primary 
     care, and rehabilitation services as a means to deliver care, 
     including in rural and underserved communities. In addition 
     to fully funding costs associated with telehealth treatment, 
     the agreement directs $5,000,000 for the purpose of expanding 
     veteran access to telehealth technologies, including through 
     new and innovative measures. The Department is directed to 
     provide an expenditure plan for these funds no later than 180 
     days after enactment of this Act.

                              Whole Health

       The agreement provides $107,848,000 for Whole Health, as 
     requested, which is $21,997,000 above the fiscal year 2023 
     enacted level. The Committees support the Whole Health model 
     of care and the expansion of Whole Health to all VA 
     facilities.
       Creative Arts Therapies.--The Committees continue to 
     acknowledge the effective use of creative arts therapies and 
     arts and humanities partnerships in treating veterans with 
     traumatic brain injuries and psychological health conditions 
     and provide up to $5,000,000 to do so.

                       Women Veterans Health Care

       The agreement includes $990,446,000 to support gender-
     specific care for women, as well as funding for the program 
     office and initiatives, including the expansion of the 
     childcare initiative. 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

[[Page S1230]]

     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 for 
     women veterans.
       Mobile Mammography.--The Committees direct the Department 
     to develop a plan to expand access to mammography for 
     veterans, including through the use of a mobile mammography 
     unit, by the end of fiscal year 2025. The plan should include 
     data related to the cost of expansion, including for mobile 
     mammography units, and be provided to the Committees on 
     Appropriations of both Houses of Congress no later than 180 
     days after enactment of this Act. As noted in House Report 
     118-122, the Committees commend VA's decision to offer breast 
     cancer screening and mammography to eligible women veterans 
     and urge the Department to include younger veterans, as 
     appropriate.

                     Workforce and Staffing Issues

       VHA Staffing.--The Committees recognize the challenge VA 
     has in recruiting and retaining physicians, physician 
     assistants, nurses, mental health providers, other healthcare 
     professionals, and related support staff, and encourage VA to 
     explore all potential options to enhance recruitment and 
     retention. Also, the Committees remind the Department to 
     submit its annual staffing report to address critical 
     workforce issues, as required by the Joint Explanatory 
     Statement accompanying Public Law 117-103.

                             Long-Term Care

       The agreement provides $12,940,784,000 for institutional 
     and non-institutional care, equal to the budget request. The 
     Committees are aware of the aging veteran population and 
     support long-term care that focuses on facilitating veteran 
     independence, enhancing quality of life, and supporting the 
     family members of veterans. As such, the Committees support 
     the Department's efforts to broaden veterans' options 
     regarding non-institutional long-term care support and 
     services, and to accommodate veterans' preferences in how and 
     where they receive care and other services.
       Data Sharing with State Cancer Registries.--The Committees 
     direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide a plan no 
     later than 90 days after enactment of this Act on how the 
     Department will begin to share qualifying cancer related data 
     with the State cancer registry of each state before the end 
     of the fiscal year.


                         MEDICAL COMMUNITY CARE

                    (INCLUDING RESCISSION OF FUNDS)

       The agreement provides $20,382,000,000 in advance for 
     fiscal year 2025 for Medical Community Care, with 
     $2,000,000,000 available through fiscal year 2026. The 
     Committees provided an advance appropriation of 
     $33,000,000,000 for fiscal year 2024 for the Medical 
     Community Care account in Public Law 117-328. The agreement 
     includes a negative adjustment to the fiscal year 2024 
     advance of $2,657,977,000, which provides the Department with 
     total budget authority of $30,342,023,000, consistent with 
     the revised request.
       In addition, VA estimates to use $6,740,264,000 from the 
     Toxic Exposures Fund to support medical community care in 
     fiscal year 2024.
       State Veterans Homes Per Diem.--The Committees understand 
     the Department intends to revise the formula used for 
     determining per diem rates at state veterans homes, and 
     support this effort.


                     MEDICAL SUPPORT AND COMPLIANCE

                    (INCLUDING RESCISSION OF FUNDS)

       The agreement provides $11,800,000,000 in advance for 
     fiscal year 2025 for Medical Support and Compliance, with 
     $350,000,000 available through fiscal year 2026. The 
     Committees provided an advance appropriation of 
     $12,300,000,000 for fiscal year 2024 for the Medical Support 
     and Compliance account in Public Law 117-328. The agreement 
     includes a negative adjustment to the fiscal year 2024 
     advance of $1,550,000,000, which provides the Department with 
     total budget authority of $10,750,000,000 consistent with the 
     revised request.
       In addition, VA estimates to use $850,000,000 from the 
     Toxic Exposures Fund for medical support and compliance 
     activities in fiscal year 2024.


                           MEDICAL FACILITIES

       The agreement provides $9,400,000,000 in advance for fiscal 
     year 2025 for Medical Facilities, with $500,000,000 made 
     available through fiscal year 2026. The agreement provides an 
     additional $149,485,000 above the fiscal year 2024 advance 
     appropriation for this account, bringing the Department's 
     total budget authority for fiscal year 2024 to 
     $8,949,485,000, consistent with the revised request.
       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.
       The Department is 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.
       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.


                    MEDICAL AND PROSTHETIC RESEARCH

       The agreement provides $943,000,000 for Medical and 
     Prosthetic Research, available until September 30, 2025, 
     which is $5,000,000 above the request. Bill language is 
     included to ensure that the Secretary allocates adequate 
     funding for prosthetic research specifically for female 
     veterans. In addition, VA estimates to use $46,000,000 from 
     the Toxic Exposures Fund to support medical and prosthetic 
     research activities related to toxic exposures in fiscal year 
     2024.
       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 notes the lack 
     of infrastructure for clinical trials in other areas of the 
     country. Expanding access to clinical oncology trials remains 
     a priority and as such the Committees direct that not less 
     than $10,000,000 be allocated to support partnerships between 
     VA medical centers and NCI-designated comprehensive cancer 
     centers.
       Due to the lack of capacity to enhance and increase current 
     clinical cancer trials into additional areas of the country, 
     the Committees direct that up to an additional $5,000,000 be 
     allocated to expand the Precision Oncology Program for Cancer 
     of the Prostate (POPCaP) program to new sites in order to 
     facilitate additional partnerships between VA medical centers 
     and university cancer centers.
       Animal Research.--As included in House Report 118-122, the 
     agreement directs the Department to include in any report to 
     Congress describing animal research details on the specific 
     alternatives to animals that were considered, why those 
     alternatives were not chosen, and an explanation for why 
     these animal subjects were the only viable option for this 
     research. The Committees remind the Department of the 
     requirement to eliminate research conducted using canines, 
     felines, or non-human primates by March 2026, and request a 
     briefing on a plan to do so within 90 days of enactment of 
     this Act.
       Women Veterans Research.--The Committees continue to 
     encourage VA to expand its research on the effects of toxic 
     exposure and ensure women are appropriately represented in 
     these efforts. The agreement directs VA to provide a briefing 
     to the Committees on Appropriations on both Houses of 
     Congress on how the Department is continuing to pursue 
     efforts to be more inclusive of women in its research within 
     90 days of enactment of this Act.
       Toxic Exposures Research.--As included in House Report 118-
     122 and Senate Report 118-43, the Committees encourage the 
     Department to continue research on the effects of and 
     treatments for veterans exposed to toxins, such as Agent 
     Orange, burn pits, Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances 
     (PFAS), radiation, asbestos, and aqueous Film Forming Foam 
     (AFFF), and looks forward to the requested report. The 
     Committees continue to direct VA to collaborate with the 
     Department of Defense PFAS Task Force, academia, and other 
     health institutions and agencies to monitor research 
     activities, results, and publications on the health effects 
     from PFAS.


                     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 $3,991,000,000 in fiscal year 
     2024.

                    National Cemetery Administration

       The agreement provides $480,000,000 for the National 
     Cemetery Administration (NCA). Of the amount provided, up to 
     10 percent is available until September 30, 2025.
       Rural Initiative National Cemetery Facilities.--The 
     Committees support the National Cemetery Administration's 
     efforts to construct additional infrastructure at its Rural 
     Initiative national cemeteries. In order to ensure that these 
     infrastructure projects are meeting the needs of veterans, 
     volunteers, and visitors, the Department should conduct an 
     assessment at each Rural Initiative National Cemetery site, 
     with feedback from community stakeholders--to include 
     veterans, veterans service organizations, volunteers, local 
     leadership, adjacent landowners, and visitors, to determine 
     if it is advisable to construct permanent support 
     infrastructure. The Committees strongly encourage the 
     Department to work with State and local entities, and non-
     profit organizations interested in constructing and donating 
     facilities or donating funding for VA-built facilities, to 
     include funds for construction and future operations and 
     maintenance costs, to help meet location-specific needs, as 
     appropriate.

                      Departmental Administration


                         GENERAL ADMINISTRATION

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The agreement provides $475,000,000 for General 
     Administration. Of the amount provided, up to 10 percent is 
     available for obligation until September 30, 2025. In 
     addition, VA estimates to use $89,799,000 from the Toxic 
     Exposures Fund to support administrative activities related 
     to toxic exposures in fiscal year 2024. The agreement 
     continues to include bill language permitting the transfer

[[Page S1231]]

     of funds from this account to General Operating Expenses, 
     Veterans Benefits Administration.
       The Committees direct the Secretary to provide a spend plan 
     on how the Department allocates the General Administration 
     funding by office to the Committees within 30 days of 
     enactment of this Act. The Secretary may alter these 
     allocations if the Committees have been notified and written 
     approval is provided.
       Lobbying Congress.--In lieu of language included in House 
     Report 118-122, the Department is reminded of the statutory 
     anti-lobbying restrictions in place in 18 U.S.C. 1913, which 
     prohibits lobbying by federal agencies. The Secretary is 
     directed to ensure compliance with these laws on all public 
     statements, and to make all central office based employees of 
     the Office of Public Affairs receive training on the Hatch 
     Act and its application to ensure official Department 
     resources are being used in a nonpartisan manner.
       Office of Resolution Management, Diversity, and Inclusion 
     (ORMDI).--In lieu of the direction in House Report 118-122, 
     the agreement includes an additional $58,927,000 above the 
     fiscal year enacted 2023 level to support compliance with 
     Section 402 of Division U of the Consolidated Appropriations 
     Act, 2023. The agreement does not include additional funds 
     above the fiscal year 2023 level for diversity and inclusion 
     programming for ORMDI. The agreement does 
     not include the additional direction under this heading in 
     House Report 118-122.
       Predatory Representational Services to Veterans.--The 
     Committees remain concerned about individuals and 
     organizations aggressively marketing representational 
     services to veterans using predatory tactics, often resulting 
     in veterans having to pay exorbitant fees for representation 
     for disability compensation claims, appeals, and Camp Lejeune 
     related lawsuits. The VA Office of General Counsel is 
     strongly encouraged to increase efforts to properly oversee 
     claims representative accreditation, as well as ensure 
     veterans are fully aware of their due process rights, VA's 
     duty to assist, and the free representational services 
     offered by accredited veterans service organizations.


                       BOARD OF VETERANS APPEALS

       The agreement provides $287,000,000 for the Board of 
     Veterans Appeals (BVA), of which up to 10 percent shall 
     remain available until September 30, 2025. In addition, VA 
     estimates to use $4,000,000 from the Toxic Exposures Fund to 
     support BVA activities related to toxic exposures in fiscal 
     year 2024.


                     INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SYSTEMS

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The agreement provides $6,401,000,000 for the Information 
     Technology (IT) Systems account. The agreement includes 
     $1,606,977,000 for staff salaries and expenses, 
     $4,668,373,000 for operation and maintenance of existing 
     programs, of which $75,288,000 is available through fiscal 
     year 2028 for facility activations related projects, and 
     $125,650,000 for program development. In addition, VA 
     estimates to use $1,243,000,000 from the Toxic Exposures Fund 
     to support information technology systems activities related 
     to toxic exposures in fiscal year 2024.
       The agreement makes no more than 3 percent of pay and 
     associated costs funding available through fiscal year 2025, 
     no more than 5 percent of operations and maintenance funding 
     available through fiscal year 2025, and all IT systems 
     development funding available through fiscal year 2025.
       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.
       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
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Clinical Enabling Capabilities.............................      $53,656
  Health Delivery Support..................................       23,599
  Operational Support......................................       23,137
  Health Administration....................................        6,920
Health Business Services...................................       14,694
  Common Health Care Workflows.............................        7,594
  Common Health Care Specific Services.....................        7,100
Care Coverage Capabilities.................................       13,608
  Clinical Care Coverage Services..........................       13,608
Clinical Care Capabilities.................................        7,949
  Clinical Care Services...................................        7,949
Health IT Services.........................................        2,000
  Enterprise IT Infrastructure.............................        2,000
Patient Management Capabilities............................          559
  Patient Management Services..............................          559
Benefits Services..........................................       16,000
  Loan Guaranty............................................       16,000
Veterans Experience Services...............................       14,184
  Digital Experience.......................................        9,511
  Customer Data Management Experience......................        4,673
Corporate Services.........................................        3,000
  Financial Management Services............................        3,000
    Total, IT development..................................      125,650
------------------------------------------------------------------------

                   VETERANS ELECTRONIC HEALTH RECORD

       The agreement provides $1,334,142,000 for the Veterans 
     Electronic Health Record, equal to the revised request, 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 providing certain information to the Committees.
       The agreement continues quarterly reporting of obligations, 
     expenditures, and deployment schedule by facility. The 
     Committees expect the Department to continue quarterly 
     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.
       The agreement further directs the Secretary to submit a 
     report containing an earned value analysis of the Veterans 
     Electronic Health Record system, including a graphic 
     performance report, a schedule and cost performance indexes, 
     an estimate of completion and a budget at completion, and a 
     variance analysis for cost and schedule.
       Contractor Accountability.--The Committees expect VA will 
     hold Oracle Cerner accountable and work with them to improve 
     usability of the system and training. Additionally, the 
     Committees support the modifications to the Department's 
     updated contract with Oracle Cerner and request semiannual 
     reports on any financial penalties the contractor has 
     incurred.
       Support for Operations at Sites Utilizing the New EHR.--For 
     each site using the new EHR, the Committees direct the 
     Department to ensure that implementation of the new EHR has 
     not had negative impacts on the relevant facilities, 
     especially with respect to any formulaic funding or staffing 
     models. The Department is directed to periodically report to 
     the Committees on Appropriations of both Houses of Congress 
     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 Committees also discourage the 
     Department from retaliation against employees who raise 
     patient safety concerns related to the EHR Modernization 
     activities.
       Enterprise Integration and Standardization.--In addition to 
     the direction included in House Report 118-122, the 
     Department is directed to provide a report within 45 days of 
     enactment of this Act on its plans to ensure modifications 
     and system customization at individual facilities is 
     extremely limited. The report should provide an understanding 
     of what the base standardized system entails, and report 
     quarterly on deviations from this standard, and the reasons 
     such deviations are necessary.


                      OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL

       The agreement provides $296,000,000 for the Office of 
     Inspector General. Of the amount provided, up to 10 percent 
     is available for obligation until September 30, 2025.
       The Committees continue to request robust oversight of the 
     Electronic Health Record Modernization initiative.


                      CONSTRUCTION, MAJOR PROJECTS

       The agreement provides $961,218,560 for Construction, Major 
     Projects. The agreement makes this funding available through 
     fiscal year 2028, except that $507,904,000 is made available 
     until expended, of which $110,000,000 shall be available for 
     seismic improvement projects. The agreement provides the 
     requested new authority for VHA land acquisition.
       Recurring Expenses Transformational Fund.--The agreement 
     supports the Department's plan to allocate $600,000,000 of 
     the Recurring Expenses Transformational Fund balances to 
     support facilities improvements at existing medical 
     facilities, and includes an additional $46,000,0000 for 
     planning and design for a new VA medical facility in St. 
     Louis, MO, for a total of $646,000,000 from the Fund.
       The agreement funds the following items requested in the 
     budget submission:

[[Page S1232]]

  


                                          CONSTRUCTION, MAJOR PROJECTS
                                                ($ in thousands)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                        Fiscal Year 2024 Funding
                                                                   ---------------------------------
                                                                                       Recurring
                Location                        Description                            Expenses         Total
                                                                    Appropriation  Transformational
                                                                                         Fund
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Veterans Health Administration (VHA):
  San Juan, PR.........................  Seismic Corrections                   0           41,370         41,370
                                          Building 1, New
                                          Administrative Building,
                                          Expansion of Outpatient
                                          Clinic and Parking
                                          Structure.
  Portland, OR.........................  Upgrade Building 100 and              0           90,000         90,000
                                          101 for Seismic Retrofit
                                          and Renovation, Roadway
                                          and Site Improvements,
                                          New Specialty Care
                                          Facility, Demolition and
                                          Expansion of Parking
                                          Facilities.
  American Lake, WA....................  Construction of New                   0           45,000         45,000
                                          Specialty Care Building
                                          201, Renovation of
                                          Building 19 and
                                          Expansion of Parking
                                          Facilities.
  San Francisco, CA....................  New Research Facility,                0            9,620          9,620
                                          Parking Structure and
                                          Demolition.
  San Diego, CA........................  Spinal Cord Injury and                0           49,600         49,600
                                          Seismic Building 11.
  Perry Point, MD......................  Replacement Community            32,609          181,610        214,219
                                          Living Center and
                                          Parking Expansion.
  El Paso, TX..........................  Construct New Health Care             0           59,200         59,200
                                          Center and Utility Plant.
  West Haven, CT.......................  New Surgical and Clinical       153,128                0        153,128
                                          Space Tower, Renovation
                                          of Buildings 1 and 2 and
                                          Demolition.
  Dallas, TX...........................  Clinical Expansion for                0           77,460         77,460
                                          Mental Health, Expansion
                                          of Parking Facilities
                                          and Land Acquisition.
  St. Louis, MO........................  Advance Planning and                  0           46,000         46,000
                                          Design for new VA
                                          Medical Center.
  West Los Angeles, CA.................  Seismic Correction of 12          6,555                0          6,555
                                          Buildings.
  Reno, NV.............................  Replace VA Sierra Nevada         41,055                0         41,055
                                          Health Care System
                                          Medical Center.
  Various Stations.....................  Advance Planning and            196,872           46,140        243,012
                                          Design Fund.
  Various Stations.....................  Asbestos.................         8,000                0          8,000
  Various Stations.....................  Construction & Facilities       153,000                0        153,000
                                          Management Staff.
  Various Stations.....................  Hazardous Waste..........         1,000                0          1,000
  Various Stations.....................  Judgement Fund...........        25,000                0         25,000
  Various Stations.....................  Non-Departmental Federal        112,000                0        112,000
                                          Entity Project
                                          Management Support.
  Various Stations.....................  Seismic Corrections......       110,000                0        110,000
    Subtotal, VHA......................  .........................       839,219          646,000      1,485,219
National Cemetery Administration (NCA):
  St. Louis, MO........................  Jefferson Barracks NC-           28,800                0         28,000
                                          Phase 1 Gravesite
                                          Development (New Land).
  Tahoma, WA...........................  Tahoma NC-Gravesite              78,200                0         78,200
                                          Expansion.
  Various Stations.....................  Advance Planning and              5,000                0          5,000
                                          Design Fund.
    Subtotal, NCA......................  .........................       112,000                0        112,000
General Administration/Staff Offices:..  Department Advance               10,000                0         10,000
                                          Planning and Design Fund
                                          for Major Construction.
    Major Construction, Total..........  .........................       961,219          646,000      1,607,219
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Community-Based Outpatient Clinic in Alameda, California.--
     The Committees are concerned about the status of the Alameda 
     Point Community Based Outpatient Clinic project and reiterate 
     the direction included in House Report 118-122 to provide 
     monthly reports to the Committees on Appropriations of both 
     Houses of Congress on the progress of the project. The bill 
     contains a provision to allow for the execution of funds 
     provided in prior fiscal years for Alameda.


                      CONSTRUCTION, MINOR PROJECTS

       The agreement provides $692,000,000 for Construction, Minor 
     Projects, which is $12,000,000 above the request. The 
     agreement makes this funding available through fiscal year 
     2028, except that $80,000,000 is made available until 
     expended. The agreement provides $346,150,000 for the 
     Veterans Health Administration, $182,560,000 for the National 
     Cemetery Administration, $62,070,000 for the Veterans 
     Benefits Administration, and $101,220,000 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.


       GRANTS FOR CONSTRUCTION OF STATE EXTENDED CARE FACILITIES

       The agreement provides $171,000,000 for Grants for 
     Construction of State Extended Care Facilities, which is 
     $7,000,000 above the request, to remain available until 
     expended.


             GRANTS FOR CONSTRUCTION OF VETERANS CEMETERIES

       The agreement provides $60,000,000 for Grants for 
     Construction of Veterans Cemeteries, to remain available 
     until expended.

                    Cost of War Toxic Exposures Fund

       The Cost of War Toxic Exposures Fund (the Fund) was 
     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 (Public Law 117-168). The agreement supports 
     the appropriations provided for fiscal years 2024 and 2025 
     included in the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023 (Public Law 
     118-5), and includes a provision with a new quarterly 
     reporting requirement on the status of the Toxic Exposures 
     Fund. Further, the Committees expect a consolidated section 
     in future budget requests outlining the proposed spending 
     from the Toxic Exposures Fund, consistent with requirements 
     in Public Law 117-168.
       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 to 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.
       Kosovo Veterans Toxic Exposures.--The Department is 
     directed to submit a report to the Committees on 
     Appropriations of both Houses of Congress 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, 
     including studies conducted by the Department of Defense, of 
     veterans who served in Kosovo since June 1999.

                       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

[[Page S1233]]

     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 
     $430,532,000 of specified fiscal year 2024 funds for transfer 
     to the Joint DOD-VA Medical Facility Demonstration Fund.
       The agreement includes section 220 which permits up to 
     $456,547,000 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 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 
     2024 funds appropriated in this Act or available from advance 
     fiscal year 2024 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, 
     2025, 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 of the use of social security numbers in VA 
     programs not later than September 30, 2024.
       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 2024 and 2025 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 2024 to convert any program which 
     received specific purpose funds in fiscal year 2023 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 
     2024 and 2025 ``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 $990,446,000 
     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 section 8006 of the American Rescue 
     Plan.
       The agreement includes section 254 requiring an expenditure 
     plan for funds made available through the Fiscal 
     Responsibility Act of 2023 (P.L. 118-5) for the Cost of War 
     Toxic Exposures Fund for fiscal year 2024.
       The agreement includes section 255 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 256 rescinding unobligated 
     balances.
       The agreement includes section 257 to limit funds from 
     being used to close medical facilities.
       The agreement includes section 258 to allow use of 
     unobligated balances to support construction projects in the 
     CHIP-IN program.
       The agreement includes section 259 rescinding unobligated 
     balances.
       The agreement includes section 260 rescinding unobligated 
     balances.
       The agreement includes section 261 requiring funds 
     transferred to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for certain 
     construction projects be returned.

                               TITLE III

                            RELATED AGENCIES

                  American Battle Monuments Commission


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

        The agreement provides $158,630,000 for Salaries and 
     Expenses of the American Battle Monuments Commission (ABMC). 
     The 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 $47,200,000 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.

         Department of Defense--Civil Cemeterial Expenses, Army


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement provides $99,880,000 for Cemeterial Expenses, 
     Army--Salaries and Expenses. Within that amount, up to 
     $15,000,000 in funding is available until September 30, 2026.


                              CONSTRUCTION

       The agreement provides $88,600,000 for Construction, for 
     planning and design and construction associated with 
     Arlington National Cemetery's Southern Expansion project. 
     When completed, this project will provide approximately 
     80,000 additional burial opportunities to extend the life of 
     the active cemetery into the 2060s.

[[Page S1234]]

  


                      Armed Forces Retirement Home


                               TRUST FUND

       The agreement provides a total of $77,000,000 for the Armed 
     Forces Retirement Home (AFRH). This 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 118-122. The agreement 
     also includes two-year availability of funds for operations 
     and maintenance.
       Land Redevelopment.--In lieu of the report required under 
     this heading in House Report 118-122 regarding the AFRH's 
     previous land redevelopment plan, the Committees direct AFRH 
     to provide a briefing not later than 60 days after enactment 
     of the Act on options for, and timelines associated with, the 
     future use of the 80-acre master planned parcel, including 
     how such options will improve financial sustainability of 
     AFRH while continuing to prioritize its responsibilities to 
     its residents.

                        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.
       The agreement includes section 413 prohibiting the use of 
     funds in this Act to report a veteran to the Department of 
     Justice National Instant Criminal Background Check System 
     without a judicial determination.

   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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  EXPLANATORY STATEMENT SUBMITTED BY MRS. MURRAY, CHAIR OF THE SENATE 
    COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS, REGARDING H.R. 4366, CONSOLIDATED 
                        APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2024

       The following is an explanation of the Consolidated 
     Appropriations Act, 2024.
                                  ____


       DIVISION B--AGRICULTURE, RURAL DEVELOPMENT, FOOD AND DRUG 
     ADMINISTRATION, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2024

     CONGRESSIONAL DIRECTIVES
       The joint explanatory statement accompanying this division 
     is approved and indicates congressional intent. Unless 
     otherwise noted, the language set forth in House Report 118-
     124 and Senate Report 118-44 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 in which the House or the Senate or this 
     explanatory statement has directed the submission of a 
     report, such report is to be submitted to both the House and 
     Senate Committees on Appropriations no later than 60 days 
     after enactment of this Act, unless otherwise directed.
       Hereafter, in this Division of this statement, the term 
     `the Committees' refers to the Committees on Appropriations 
     of the House of Representatives and the Senate.
       For the appropriations provided by this Act and previous 
     Acts, the departments and agencies funded by this agreement 
     are reminded that the Committees use the definitions for 
     transfer, reprogramming, and program, project, and activity 
     as defined by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) in 
     GAO-04-261SP Appropriations Law--Vol. I and GAO-05-734SP 
     Budget Glossary.
       A transfer is the shifting of funds between appropriations. 
     It applies to (1) transfers from one agency to another, (2) 
     transfers from one account to another within the same agency, 
     and (3) transfers to an interagency or intra-agency working 
     fund. In each instance, statutory authority is required.
       Reprogramming is the utilization of funds in an 
     appropriation account for purposes other than those 
     contemplated at the time of appropriation. It is the shifting 
     of funds from one object to another within an appropriation.
       A program, project, or activity (PPA) is an element within 
     a budget account. PPAs are identified by reference to include 
     the most specific level of budget items identified in the 
     Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, 
     and Related Agencies Act, 2024, accompanying Committee 
     reports, explanatory statements, and budget justifications. 
     Program activity structures are intended to provide a 
     meaningful representation of the operations financed by a 
     specific budget account by project, activity, or 
     organization.
       The agreement directs the Office of Budget and Program 
     Analysis (OBPA) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) 
     to provide an organizational chart for each agency funded by 
     this Act to the division and subdivision level, as 
     appropriate, within 60 days of enactment of this Act. The 
     agreement also directs the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 
     the Farm Credit Administration (FCA), and the Commodity 
     Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) to provide an 
     organizational chart of each agency, respectively, to the 
     division and subdivision level, as appropriate, within 60 
     days of enactment of this Act.
       Further, USDA, FDA, and CFTC should be mindful of 
     Congressional authority to determine and set final funding 
     levels for fiscal year 2025. Therefore, the agencies should 
     not presuppose program funding outcomes and prematurely 
     initiate action to redirect staffing prior to knowing final 
     outcomes on fiscal year 2025 program funding. The agreement 
     directs OBPA to provide the Committees with the number of 
     staff years and employees on board for each agency funded by 
     this Act on a monthly basis.
       This agreement provides funding for Community Project 
     Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending. The bill includes 
     language in each account with such spending that the funding 
     ``shall be for the purposes, and in the amounts, specified 
     for [the relevant account] in the table titled `Community 
     Project Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending' in the 
     explanatory statement described in section 4 (in the matter 
     preceding division A of this consolidated Act).''

                                TITLE I

                         AGRICULTURAL PROGRAMS

                  Processing, Research, and Marketing

                        Office of the Secretary


                     (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)

       The agreement provides $58,292,000 for the Office of the 
     Secretary.
       The agreement directs the Secretary within 60 days of 
     enactment of this Act to provide an IT modernization plan 
     that accelerates the continued implementation and expansion 
     of the Farmers.gov system using the Enterprise Data Analytics 
     Platform and Toolset (EDAPT) to enable USDA customers to: (1) 
     view their information, complete transactions, quickly review 
     the status, and update tabular customer information; (2) 
     submit applications for Farm Production and Conservation 
     (FPAC) programs and receive program payments for all USDA 
     farm programs; (3) to complete their own applications, 
     including electronic signatures and submissions, for all farm 
     programs that require direct application; (4) enable 
     electronic income reporting between USDA and the Internal 
     Revenue Service; and (5) access and manage acreage reporting, 
     farm records mapping, and farm records information within 
     Farmers.gov. The agreement further directs the FPAC Business 
     Center to provide a roadmap for systems to make customer 
     information available within Farmers.gov and EDAPT including, 
     but not limited to, the Agriculture Risk Coverage and Price 
     Loss Coverage programs, the Dairy Margin Coverage program, 
     and the Farm Service Agency Emergency Relief Program.
       The agreement makes the Secretary of Agriculture a member 
     of the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States 
     (CFIUS) with respect to covered transactions involving 
     agricultural land, biotechnology, and industry. The agreement 
     requires the Secretary to notify CFIUS of agricultural land 
     transactions reported under the Agricultural Foreign 
     Investment Disclosure Act (AFIDA) that may pose a risk to 
     national security. For these purposes, the agreement provides 
     a $2,500,000 increase in the Office of Homeland Security for 
     CFIUS reviews and a $1,000,000 increase in the Farm 
     Production and Conservation Business Center to improve AFIDA 
     reporting.
       The agreement also provides $6,000,000, to be divided 
     equally, to continue the Institute for Rural Partnerships at 
     established land-grant universities, which were originally 
     funded in fiscal year 2022.
       The agreement includes a provision (Section 773) noting 
     that the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and 
     Medicine (NASEM) was tasked with providing findings and 
     recommendations for alcohol consumption for inclusion in the 
     2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA), and that such 
     findings and recommendations shall be solely based on the 
     preponderance of scientific and medical knowledge. The 
     agreement therefore directs the Secretary of Agriculture and 
     the Secretary of Health and Human Services to ensure that any 
     recommendations related to alcohol consumption in the 2025 
     DGA that deviate from the 2020 DGA must be based upon peer 
     reviewed, scientific, and medical knowledge and that such 
     review was the result of a transparent process by any federal 
     entity that may have been involved.
       The agreement directs the Department to submit a report to 
     the Committees no later than 90 days after enactment of this 
     Act, describing a plan for improving staffing at the Farm 
     Service Agency, the Natural Resources Conservation Service, 
     and the Rural Development mission area at the county and area 
     levels, including recommendations for actions that Congress 
     may take. The agreement further directs the Secretary to 
     prioritize hiring of these positions outside the National 
     Capital Region.

                         OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY
                         (Dollars in thousands)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Office of the Secretary....................................       $7,000
Office of Homeland Security................................        1,896
Office of Tribal Relations.................................        5,190
Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement...............        7,500
Office of Assistant Secretary for Administration...........        1,706
Departmental Administration................................       23,500
Office of Assistant Secretary for Congressional Relations          4,500
 and Intergovernmental Affairs.............................
Office of Communications...................................        7,000
                                                            ------------
    Total, Office of the Secretary.........................      $58,292
------------------------------------------------------------------------

                          Executive Operations


                     OFFICE OF THE CHIEF ECONOMIST

       The agreement provides $30,500,000 for the Office of the 
     Chief Economist.
       The agreement provides $10,000,000 for policy research 
     under 7 U.S.C. 3155. Of the amount provided for policy 
     research activities, $2,000,000 shall be used to establish a 
     new center based at an upper Midwest land-grant university 
     focused on agricultural policy relevant to the region, 
     including crop insurance, livestock risk management, and 
     disaster programs. The remaining $8,000,000 shall be provided 
     in a manner consistent with fiscal year 2023 funding.
       The agreement also provides a $300,000 increase for the 
     Office of Pest Management Policy to continue advocating on 
     behalf of U.S. agricultural producers for science-based 
     pesticide policy with EPA and other Federal pesticide 
     policymakers.


                     OFFICE OF HEARINGS AND APPEALS

       The agreement provides $16,703,000 for the Office of 
     Hearings and Appeals.


                 OFFICE OF BUDGET AND PROGRAM ANALYSIS

       The agreement provides $14,967,000 for the Office of Budget 
     and Program Analysis.

                Office of the Chief Information Officer

       The agreement provides $91,000,000 for the Office of the 
     Chief Information Officer, of which not less than $77,428,000 
     is for cybersecurity requirements of the Department.

                 Office of the Chief Financial Officer

       The agreement provides $6,867,000 for the Office of the 
     Chief Financial Officer.

           Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights

       The agreement provides $1,466,000 for the Office of the 
     Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights.

                         Office of Civil Rights

       The agreement provides $37,000,000 for the Office of Civil 
     Rights.

[[Page S1287]]

  


                  Agriculture Buildings and Facilities


                     (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)

       The agreement provides $22,603,000 for Agriculture 
     Buildings and Facilities.

                     Hazardous Materials Management


                     (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)

       The agreement provides $3,000,000 for Hazardous Materials 
     Management.

               Office of Safety, Security, and Protection

       The agreement provides $20,800,000 for the Office of 
     Safety, Security, and Protection.

                      Office of Inspector General

       The agreement provides $111,561,000 for the Office of 
     Inspector General.

                     Office of the General Counsel

       The agreement provides $60,537,000 for the Office of the 
     General Counsel (OGC).
       The agreement includes bill language that allows OGC to 
     accept funds from other USDA agencies to facilitate OGC's 
     timely consideration of matters from those agencies. The 
     agreement directs OGC to brief the Committees before using 
     this authority for the first time and as requested 
     thereafter.

                            Office of Ethics

       The agreement provides $4,500,000 for the Office of Ethics.

  Office of the Under Secretary for Research, Education, and Economics

       The agreement provides $1,884,000 for the Office of the 
     Under Secretary for Research, Education, and Economics.

                       Economic Research Service

       The agreement provides $90,612,000 for the Economic 
     Research Service (ERS).
       The agreement directs ERS to provide the Committees with a 
     report that evaluates actionable avenues for improving the 
     Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, 
     and Children (WIC) retailer and recipient participation to 
     help address disparities in retailer participation between 
     the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and WIC 
     programs, geographic differences in access to local WIC 
     agencies, and other state and local WIC agency differences in 
     program administration.

                National Agricultural Statistics Service

       The agreement provides $187,513,000 for the National 
     Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), of which $46,850,000 
     is for the Census of Agriculture.
       The agreement directs NASS to continue its ongoing 
     activities at the frequency levels assumed in fiscal year 
     2023, including barley acreage and production estimates; the 
     Bee and Honey Program; the Chemical Use Data Series; the 
     Floriculture Crops Report; Fruit and Vegetable Reports, 
     including in-season forecasts for non-citrus fruit and tree 
     nut crops such as pecans; the Cost of Pollination survey; and 
     the organic data initiative. The agreement further directs 
     NASS to conduct the Census of Aquaculture in fiscal year 
     2024.

                     Agricultural Research Service


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement provides $1,788,063,000 for the Agricultural 
     Research Service (ARS), Salaries and Expenses.
       The agreement expects extramural and intramural research to 
     be funded at no less than the fiscal year 2023 levels. The 
     agreement provides funding increases for 6PPD; Aflatoxin 
     Mitigation; Agricultural Data Security; Agrivoltaics; AgTech 
     Cooperative Agreements; Alternative Protein Research; BARD; 
     the Barley Pest Initiative; Catfish Aquaculture; Citrus 
     Breeding; the Controlled Environment Ag Program; Cover Crops; 
     Cranberry Research; Daily High-Resolution Imaging; East Coast 
     Shellfish Breeding; Fumigant Alternatives Research; Genetic 
     Oat Research; Grape Genetics; Greenhouse Technology; Healthy 
     Soils in Semi-Arid Locations Research; Human Nutrition 
     Research; Little Cherry Disease; LTAR; Machine Learning and 
     Electromagnetic Sensors Research; Nematodes; Onion Breeding; 
     Peanut Genomics; Peanut Nutrition; Pecan Genetics; Pecan 
     Processing; PFAS Center of Excellence; Precision Aquaculture; 
     Predictive Crop Performance; Post-Harvest Control of Plant 
     Diseases; Pulse Crop Quality; Rangeland Research; 
     Recirculating Aquaculture Systems Research; Resilient 
     Livestock; Small Fruits; Soil Health Research; Spray Drone 
     Research; Strawberry Production; Sugarcane Variety 
     Development; Sustainable Aquaculture; Sustainable Specialty 
     Crops; Water Quality Management Systems; the Wheat Resilience 
     Initiative; Wildfire Smoke Taint; and the Wind Erosion 
     Research Network.


                        BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES

       The agreement provides $57,164,000 for ARS Buildings and 
     Facilities.

               National Institute of Food and Agriculture


                   RESEARCH AND EDUCATION ACTIVITIES

       The agreement provides $1,075,950,000 for the National 
     Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), Research and 
     Education Activities.
       The agreement directs NIFA to brief the Committees on 
     efforts to combat citrus greening and collaboration with the 
     HLB-MAC group.
       The agreement remains concerned about rising cybersecurity 
     threats to our nation's agricultural systems. The agreement 
     directs the Secretary to report to the Committees on 
     potential areas of collaboration between the Department, 
     land-grant institutions, and other Federal agencies to 
     strengthen the food and agriculture supply chain's resiliency 
     to cyber threats from foreign adversaries.
       The following table reflects the agreement:

    NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF FOOD AND AGRICULTURE RESEARCH AND EDUCATION
                               ACTIVITIES
                         (Dollars in thousands)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hatch Act..........................  7 U.S.C. 361a-i.......     $265,000
McIntire-Stennis Cooperative         16 U.S.C. 582a through       38,000
 Forestry Act.                        a-7.
Research at 1890 Institutions        7 U.S.C. 3222.........       89,000
 (Evans-Allen Program).
Payments to the 1994 Institutions..  7 U.S.C. 301 note.....        7,000
Education Grants for 1890            7 U.S.C. 3152(b)......       30,000
 Institutions.
Scholarships at 1890 Institutions..  7 U.S.C. 3222a........       10,000
Centers of Excellence at 1890        7 U.S.C. 5926(d)......       10,000
 Institutions.
Education Grants for Hispanic-       7 U.S.C. 3241.........       16,000
 Serving Institutions.
Education Grants for Alaska Native   7 U.S.C. 3156.........        5,000
 and Native Hawaiian-Serving
 Institutions.
Research Grants for 1994             7 U.S.C. 301 note.....        5,000
 Institutions.
Capacity Building for Non Land-      7 U.S.C. 3319i........        6,000
 Grant Colleges of Agriculture.
New Beginning for Tribal Students..  7 U.S.C. 3222e........        5,000
Grants for Insular Areas...........  7 U.S.C. 3222b-2, 3362        2,000
                                      and 3363.
Agriculture and Food Research        7 U.S.C. 3157.........      445,200
 Initiative.
Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment.  7 U.S.C. 3151a........       10,000
Veterinary Services Grant Program..  7 U.S.C. 3151b........        4,000
Continuing Animal Health and         7 U.S.C. 3151a........        4,000
 Disease Research Program.
Supplemental and Alternative Crops.  7 U.S.C. 3319d........        2,000
Multicultural Scholars, Graduate     7 U.S.C. 3152(b)......       10,000
 Fellowship and Institution
 Challenge Grants.
Secondary and 2-year Post-Secondary  7 U.S.C. 3152(j)......          750
 Education.
Aquaculture Centers................  7 U.S.C. 3322.........        5,000
Sustainable Agriculture Research     7 U.S.C. 5811, 5812,         48,000
 and Education.                       5831, and 5832.
Farm Business Management...........  7 U.S.C. 5925f........        2,000
Sun Grant Program..................  7 U.S.C. 8114.........        3,000
Research Equipment Grants..........  7 U.S.C. 3310a........        5,000
Alfalfa Seed and Alfalfa Forage      7 U.S.C. 5925.........        4,000
 Systems Research Program.
Minor Crop Pest Management (IR-4)..  7 U.S.C. 450i(e)......       15,000
Agricultural Genome to Phenome       7 U.S.C. 5924.........        2,000
 Initiative.
Laying Hen and Turkey Research       7 U.S.C. 5925.........          500
 Program.
Open Data Standards for Neutral      Sec. 757 of Division A        1,000
 Data Repositories.                   of P.L. 117-103.
Research Facilities Act............  7 U.S.C. 390 et seq...        1,000
Special Research Grants:...........  7 U.S.C. 450i(c)......
    Global Change/UV Monitoring....  ......................        1,000
    Potato Research................  ......................        4,000
    Aquaculture Research...........  ......................        2,000
                                                            ------------
        Total, Special Research      ......................        7,000
         Grants.
Necessary Expenses of Research and
 Education Activities:
Grants Management System...........  ......................        7,000
Federal Administration--Other        ......................       11,500
 Necessary Expenses for Research
 and Education Activities.
                                                            ------------
        Total, Necessary Expenses..  ......................       18,500
                                                            ============
        Total, Research and          ......................   $1,075,950
         Education Activities.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

              NATIVE AMERICAN INSTITUTIONS ENDOWMENT FUND

       The agreement provides $11,880,000 for the Native American 
     Institutions Endowment Fund.


                          EXTENSION ACTIVITIES

       The agreement provides $561,700,000 for NIFA, Extension 
     Activities.
       The agreement directs NIFA to brief the Committees on the 
     distribution of extension resources to minority, socially 
     disadvantaged, and Tribal communities.
       The following table reflects the agreement:

     NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF FOOD AND AGRICULTURE EXTENSION ACTIVITIES
                         (Dollars in thousands)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Smith-Lever, Section 3(b) and (c)    7 U.S.C. 343(b) and        $325,000
 programs and Cooperative Extension.  (c) and 208(c) of
                                      P.L. 93-471.
Extension Services at 1890           7 U.S.C. 3221.........       72,000
 Institutions.
Extension Services at 1994           7 U.S.C. 343(b)(3)....       11,000
 Institutions.
Facility Improvements at 1890        7 U.S.C. 3222b........       21,500
 Institutions.
Renewable Resources Extension Act..  16 U.S.C. 1671 et seq.        4,000
Rural Health and Safety Education    7 U.S.C. 26621(i).....        4,000
 Programs.
Food Animal Residue Avoidance        7 U.S.C. 7642.........        2,000
 Database Program.
Women and Minorities in STEM Fields  7 U.S.C. 5925.........        2,000
Food Safety Outreach Program.......  7 U.S.C. 7625.........       10,000
Food & Ag Service Learning.........  7 U.S.C. 7633.........        1,000
Farmer Stress Assistance Network...  7 U.S.C. 5936.........       10,000
Enhancing Ag Opportunities for
 Veterans (AgVets).
Smith-Lever, Section 3(d):.........  7 U.S.C. 343(d).......        3,000
    Food and Nutrition Education...  ......................       70,000
    Farm Safety and Youth Farm       ......................        5,000
     Safety Education Programs.
    New Technologies for             ......................        1,600
     Agricultural Extension.
    Children, Youth, and Families    ......................        8,000
     at Risk.
    Federally Recognized Tribes      ......................        4,000
     Extension Program.
                                                            ------------
        Total, Section 3(d)........  ......................       88,600
Necessary Expenses of Extension
 Activities:
Agriculture in the K-12 Classroom..  7 U.S.C. 3152(j)......          500
Federal Administration--Other        ......................        7,100
 Necessary Expenses for Extension
 Activities.
                                                            ------------
        Total, Necessary Expenses..  ......................        7,600
                                                            ============

[[Page S1288]]

 
        Total, Extension Activities  ......................     $561,700
------------------------------------------------------------------------

                         integrated activities

       The agreement provides $41,100,000 for NIFA, Integrated 
     Activities.
       The following table reflects the amounts provided by the 
     agreement:

    NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF FOOD AND AGRICULTURE INTEGRATED ACTIVITIES
                         (Dollars in thousands)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Methyl Bromide Transition Program..  7 U.S.C. 7626.........       $2,000
Organic Transition Program.........  7 U.S.C. 7626.........        7,500
Regional Rural Development Centers.  7 U.S.C. 450i(c)......        2,600
Food and Agriculture Defense         7 U.S.C. 3351.........        8,000
 Initiative.
Crop Protection/Pest Management      7 U.S.C. 7626.........       21,000
 Program.
                                                            ------------
    Total, Integrated Activities...  ......................      $41,100
------------------------------------------------------------------------

  Office of the Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs

       The agreement provides $1,617,000 for the Office of the 
     Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs.

               Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)

       The agreement provides $1,162,026,000 for the Animal and 
     Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), Salaries and 
     Expenses.
       The agreement provides increases within the base for high 
     priority initiatives in order to protect the plant and animal 
     resources of the Nation from pests and diseases, which 
     include the following: $1,000,000 to support the 
     establishment of an official Swine Health Improvement 
     Program; $500,000 to expand efforts for the suppression and 
     control of Mormon crickets in western States; $500,000 for 
     control and eradication of the spotted lanternfly; $500,000 
     for fruit fly management; $500,000 for feral swine 
     management; $500,000 to manage wildlife livestock conflict, 
     particularly as it pertains to sheep and goats in western 
     States; $500,000 for invasive catfish control in the 
     Chesapeake Bay; $450,000 to assist zoos, aquariums, 
     sanctuaries, and other related businesses in responding to 
     natural disasters; and $14,276,000 for Community Project 
     Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending.
       The agreement encourages APHIS to initiate a scientific 
     evaluation of the impact of ``teachable moments'' on animal 
     welfare within 90 days of enactment of this Act.
       The agreement continues to invest in the Avian Health 
     program and supports the Department's efforts to control and 
     respond to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza using transfers 
     from the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) as authorized by 
     the Animal Health Protection Act.
       The agreement provides $17,500,000 for APHIS to implement 
     the Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) Research and Management 
     Act. Specifically, of the amount provided for cervid health 
     activities, $12,500,000 shall be for APHIS to allocate funds 
     directly to State departments of wildlife, State departments 
     of agriculture, Native American Tribes, and research 
     institutions and universities to further develop and 
     implement CWD surveillance, testing, management, and response 
     activities. Within the remaining $4,500,000 provided for 
     cervid health activities, APHIS shall provide indemnity 
     payments and associated costs to remove infected and exposed 
     animals as expeditiously as possible. The agreement provides 
     $5,000,000 for Wildlife Services Methods Development for CWD 
     work at the National Wildlife Research Center and directs 
     APHIS to continue working with university collaborators to 
     provide research support to the overall effort to detect, 
     combat, and control CWD.
       The agreement directs the Department to continue to provide 
     the tags and related infrastructure needed to comply with the 
     Federal Animal Disease Traceability rule (9 CFR 86), 
     including no less than $15,000,000 for electronic 
     identification (EID) tags and related infrastructure needed 
     for stakeholders to comply with the proposed rule, ``Use of 
     Electronic Identification Eartags as Official Identification 
     in Cattle and Bison'' (88 FR 3320), should that rule be 
     finalized.
       The agreement directs the Secretary to issue a final rule 
     to update the Agricultural Quarantine Inspection (AQI) user 
     fee schedule in fiscal year 2024, if a final rule is 
     warranted based on the comments received on the proposed 
     rules. The agreement directs the Secretary to specifically 
     consider any comments submitted on the impact of the AQI fee 
     structure on small aircraft as part of its regulatory review 
     process and to consider the impact on tribally owned small 
     aircraft operations as required under Executive Order 13175. 
     Further, the agreement directs the Secretary to provide the 
     Committees with a detailed rationale for its decision if 
     regulatory relief is not granted in this area and its 
     compliance with Executive Order 13175.
       The Secretary is prohibited from purchasing, deploying, or 
     training third parties on the use of M-44 sodium cyanide 
     ejector devices (``M-44s''), including any components or 
     parts, or sodium fluroacetate (``Compound 1080''), except for 
     activities directly related to the removal of M-44s that have 
     been placed on Federal, Tribal, State and private land. The 
     agreement directs the department to update the Committees 
     within 30 days of enactment of this Act on implementing this 
     directive.
       The agreement is concerned with data transparency regarding 
     the Mormon cricket and grasshopper management program and 
     directs APHIS to make public the following data at the county 
     level (where such data does not result in privacy concerns) 
     and state level by fiscal year: covered acreage, number of 
     treatments, cost incurred by APHIS, and the pesticide used 
     for each spray aggregated at the county level for the last 
     five years and going forward.
       The agreement directs APHIS to take immediate steps to 
     ensure that licensees and registrants know threats or 
     intimidation of Federal inspectors can result in legal or 
     regulatory actions. In extreme cases, they may be considered 
     Federal criminal violations. APHIS should instruct inspectors 
     to correctly report instances of threats, intimidations, etc. 
     under 9 CFR 2.4 as ``critical'' violations, as required in 
     the Animal Care Inspection Guide. In severe cases or for 
     repeat violators, APHIS should consider suspension or 
     revocation of the license or registration.
       The following table reflects the agreement:

 
                        (in thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Animal Health Technical Services...........................      $40,000
Aquatic Animal Health......................................        4,500
Avian Health...............................................       65,000
Cattle Health..............................................      111,000
Equine, Cervid, and Small Ruminant Health..................       35,000
National Veterinary Stockpile..............................        6,000
Swine Health...............................................       26,500
Veterinary Biologics.......................................       21,000
Veterinary Diagnostics.....................................       63,000
Zoonotic Disease Management................................       21,000
                                                            ------------
    Subtotal, Animal Health................................      393,000
Agricultural Quarantine Inspection (Appropriated)..........       35,500
Cotton Pests...............................................       15,500
Field Crop & Rangeland Ecosystems Pests....................       12,000
Pest Detection.............................................       29,000
Plant Protection Methods Development.......................       21,500
Specialty Crop Pests.......................................      215,000
Tree & Wood Pests..........................................       59,000
                                                            ------------
    Subtotal, Plant Health.................................      387,500
Wildlife Damage Management.................................      122,500
Wildlife Services Methods Development......................       25,500
                                                            ------------
    Subtotal, Wildlife Services............................      148,000
Animal & Plant Health Regulatory Enforcement...............       18,500
Biotechnology Regulatory Services..........................       19,500
                                                            ------------
    Subtotal, Regulatory Services..........................       38,000
Contingency Fund...........................................          250
Emergency Preparedness & Response..........................       44,500
                                                            ------------
    Subtotal, Emergency Management.........................       44,750
Agriculture Import/Export..................................       18,750
Overseas Technical & Trade Operations......................       25,500
                                                            ------------
    Subtotal, Safe Trade...................................       44,250
Animal Welfare.............................................       37,250
Horse Protection...........................................        3,500
                                                            ------------
    Subtotal, Animal Welfare...............................       40,750
APHIS Information Technology Infrastructure................        4,000
Physical/Operational Security..............................        5,000
Rent and DHS Payments......................................       42,500
                                                            ------------
    Subtotal, Agency Management............................       51,500
                                                            ------------
Community Project Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending       14,276
                                                            ------------
        Total, Direct Appropriation........................   $1,162,026
------------------------------------------------------------------------

                        BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES

       The agreement provides $1,000,000 for APHIS Buildings and 
     Facilities.

                     Agricultural Marketing Service


                           MARKETING SERVICES

       The agreement provides $222,887,000 for Agricultural 
     Marketing Service (AMS), Marketing Services. The agreement 
     includes $6,000,000 for the Acer Access and Development 
     program, $12,000,000 for the Dairy Business Innovation 
     Initiatives program, and $5,000,000 for the Micro-Grants for 
     Food Security program.
       The agreement expects AMS to revise applicable Federal 
     Purchase Program Specifications to make wild-caught catfish 
     eligible for purchases and to work with wild-caught catfish 
     processors to become approved providers.


                 LIMITATION ON ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES

       The agreement provides a limitation on administrative 
     expenses of $62,596,000.


    FUNDS FOR STRENGTHENING MARKETS, INCOME, AND SUPPLY (SECTION 32)

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)

       The agreement provides $21,501,000 for Funds for 
     Strengthening Markets, Income, and Supply.
       The following table reflects the status of this fund:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Appropriation (30% of Customs Receipts)..............        $30,801,267
Less Transfers:
    Food and Nutrition Service.......................        -28,784,623
    Commerce Department..............................           -377,363
                                                      ------------------
        Total, Transfers.............................        -29,161,986
Budget Authority, Farm Bill..........................          1,657,384
    Appropriations Temporarily Reduced--                         -83,356
     Sequestration...................................
                                                      ------------------
Budget Authority, Appropriations Act.................          1,574,028
Less Obligations:
    Child Nutrition Programs (Entitlement                        485,000
     Commodities)....................................
    State Option Contract............................              5,000
    Removal of Defective Commodities.................              1,660
    Disaster Relief..................................              5,000
    Additional Fruits, Vegetables, and Nuts Purchases            206,000
    Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program................            195,000
    Estimated Future Needs...........................            561,742
                                                      ------------------
        Total, Commodity Procurement.................          1,459,402

[[Page S1289]]

 
Administrative Funds:................................
    Commodity Purchase Support.......................             37,178
    Marketing Agreements and Orders..................             21,501
                                                      ------------------
        Total, Administrative Funds..................             58,679
                                                      ------------------
        Total Obligations............................         $1,518,081
------------------------------------------------------------------------

                   PAYMENTS TO STATES AND POSSESSIONS

       The agreement provides $1,000,000 for Payments to States 
     and Possessions.


        LIMITATION ON INSPECTION AND WEIGHING SERVICES EXPENSES

       The agreement includes a limitation on inspection and 
     weighing services expenses of $55,000,000.

             Office of the Under Secretary for Food Safety

       The agreement provides $1,117,000 for the Office of the 
     Under Secretary for Food Safety.

                   Food Safety and Inspection Service

       The agreement provides $1,190,009,000 for the Food Safety 
     and Inspection Service (FSIS). This amount includes up to 
     $1,000,000 for the inspection of wild caught invasive species 
     in the order Siluriformes and family Ictaluridae, including 
     blue catfish in the Chesapeake Bay.
       The agreement reaffirms the safety of both farm-raised and 
     wild-caught catfish subject to FSIS inspection.
       The following table reflects the agreement:

                   FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE
                         (Dollars in thousands)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Federal..............................................         $1,066,390
State................................................             67,462
International........................................             20,885
Public Health Data Communications Infrastructure                  35,272
 System..............................................
                                                      ------------------
    Total, Food Safety and Inspection Service........         $1,190,009
------------------------------------------------------------------------

                                TITLE II

               Farm Production and Conservation Programs

   Office of the Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation

       The agreement provides $1,527,000 for the Office of the 
     Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation.
       USDA requires producers and landowners to obtain a farm and 
     tract number to participate in certain USDA programs. This 
     requirement creates a barrier for some landowners, 
     particularly those with heirs' property issues, who cannot 
     enroll in these programs because they do not have--and have 
     not been able to get--a farm and tract number. USDA is 
     directed to submit a proposal to the Committees immediately 
     that will allow these landowners to participate, while still 
     maintaining a record that uniquely identifies participating 
     landowners that will serve as an alternative means to achieve 
     the purposes of the farm and tract number process.
       The agreement is concerned with the Department's 
     implementation of the Emergency Relief Program, 2022. The 
     agreement expects the Department to carry out programs in a 
     manner consistent with Congressional intent and in 
     consultation with the Committees.
       The agreement directs the Secretary to explore all options 
     to assist aquaculture producers impacted by severe weather, 
     including exercising the authority under Section 1501(d) of 
     the Agricultural Act of 2014 to include drought as adverse 
     weather for Farm-Raised Fish under the Emergency Assistance 
     for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program 
     (ELAP).

            Farm Production and Conservation Business Center


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)

       The agreement provides $244,183,000 for the Farm Production 
     and Conservation Business Center. In addition, $60,228,000 is 
     transferred from the CCC.

                          Farm Service Agency


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)

       The agreement provides $1,209,307,000 for Farm Service 
     Agency, Salaries and Expenses.
       The agreement notes that recent droughts have contributed 
     to a dramatic increase in southern pine beetle infestations. 
     The agreement is concerned about the severity of observed 
     tree mortality, as well as the economic and ecological 
     challenges posed to private forest landowners. The agreement 
     emphasizes that the Emergency Forest Restoration Program 
     (EFRP) was established to assist landowners impacted by 
     natural disasters (including drought and insect 
     infestations), and that previously appropriated funds are 
     currently available to operate the program in fiscal year 
     2024. Of the unobligated balances available for EFRP, FSA is 
     encouraged to address assistance to landowners impacted by 
     southern pine beetle outbreaks in counties designated by USDA 
     as primary natural disaster areas due to drought in the 
     fourth quarter of fiscal year 2023 or first quarter of fiscal 
     year 2024. The agreement urges the FSA National Office to 
     work in coordination with the U.S. Forest Service and state 
     forestry agencies to expedite the delivery of program 
     assistance to landowners in areas impacted by drought and 
     insect infestation.
       In including, under the Further Continuing Appropriations 
     and Other Extensions Act, 2024 (P.L. 118-22), the same 
     formula used for supplemental dairy margin coverage (DMC) in 
     Title I of the Agricultural Act of 2014 as an adjustment to 
     production history for dairy margin coverage, Congress 
     intended for the Secretary to administer without interruption 
     such supplemental or adjusted coverage and to fulfill any 
     contractual obligation of the Department to a dairy that paid 
     a premium based on a full calendar year of coverage. 
     Therefore, the agreement asserts that the Secretary had 
     uninterrupted authority to make payments to participating 
     dairies with which the Department was under a contract during 
     any month of calendar year 2023 and to continue to address 
     errors, omissions, and appeals from dairy operations arising 
     out of the Supplemental DMC program.
       The following table reflects the agreement:

                         (Dollars in thousands)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Salaries and expenses......................................   $1,209,307
  Transfer from ACIF.......................................      305,803
                                                            ------------
    Total, FSA Salaries and expenses.......................   $1,515,110
------------------------------------------------------------------------

                         STATE MEDIATION GRANTS

       The agreement provides $6,500,000 for State Mediation 
     Grants.


               GRASSROOTS SOURCE WATER PROTECTION PROGRAM

       The agreement provides $7,000,000 for the Grassroots Source 
     Water Protection Program.


                        DAIRY INDEMNITY PROGRAM

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The agreement provides such sums as may be necessary for 
     the Dairy Indemnity Program.


           GEOGRAPHICALLY DISADVANTAGED FARMERS AND RANCHERS

       The agreement provides $3,500,000 for the Reimbursement 
     Transportation Cost Payment Program for Geographically 
     Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers.


           AGRICULTURAL CREDIT INSURANCE FUND PROGRAM ACCOUNT

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)

       The agreement provides $10,685,584,000 for the Agricultural 
     Credit Insurance Fund (ACIF) program account.
       The following table reflects the agreement:

                         (Dollars in thousands)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Loan Authorizations:
Farm Ownership Loans:
  Guaranteed...............................................   $3,500,000
  Direct...................................................    3,100,000
                                                            ------------
  Subtotal, Farm Ownership Loans...........................    6,600,000
Farm Operating Loans:
  Unsubsidized Guaranteed..................................    2,118,491
  Direct...................................................    1,633,000
                                                            ------------
  Subtotal, Farm Operating Loans...........................    3,751,491
Emergency Loans............................................       37,667
Indian Tribe Land Acquisition Loans........................       20,000
Conservation Loans-Guaranteed..............................      150,000
Relending Program..........................................       61,426
Indian Highly Fractionated Land............................        5,000
Boll Weevil Eradication....................................       60,000
                                                            ------------
    Total, Loan Authorizations.............................   10,685,584
Loan Subsidies:
Farm Operating Loan Subsidies:
  Direct...................................................       27,598
  Unsubsidized Guaranteed..................................        1,483
                                                            ------------
  Subtotal, Farm Operating Subsidies.......................       29,081
Emergency Loans............................................        3,507
Relending Program..........................................       19,368
Indian Highly Fractionated Land............................        1,577
Boll Weevil Eradication Loans..............................          258
                                                            ------------
    Total, Loan Subsidies..................................       53,791
ACIF Expenses:
  Salaries and Expenses....................................      305,803
  Administrative Expenses..................................       20,250
                                                            ------------
    Total, ACIF Expenses...................................     $326,053
------------------------------------------------------------------------

                         Risk Management Agency


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement provides $65,637,000 for Risk Management 
     Agency (RMA), Salaries and Expenses.
       The agreement notes the importance of viable crop insurance 
     policies to sugarcane growers in the Rio Grande Valley. The 
     agreement expects RMA to ensure consistent and fair 
     application of policy requirements by Approved Insurance 
     Providers, including on water requirements on irrigated 
     policies.

                 Natural Resources Conservation Service


                        CONSERVATION OPERATIONS

       The agreement provides $914,899,000 for Natural Resources 
     Conservation Service, Conservation Operations.
       The agreement provides $14,751,000 for the Snow Survey and 
     Water Forecasting Program; $10,751,000 for the Plant 
     Materials Centers; $86,757,000 for the Soil Surveys Program; 
     and $773,495,000 for Conservation Technical Assistance, of 
     which $10,000,000 is for the Grazing Lands Conservation 
     Initiative and $1,000,000 is for Phragmite control. The 
     agreement does not provide funding for conservation equity 
     agreements. The agreement also includes $3,000,000 for a 
     cost-share program for the construction and repair of 
     perimeter fencing and $7,000,000 for the Office of Urban 
     Agriculture.
       To better support historically underserved producers, the 
     agreement encourages NRCS to hire staff fluent in non-English 
     languages, experienced in Traditional Ecological Knowledge 
     (TEK)-based practices, and familiar with a range of operation 
     types and business structures.


               WATERSHED AND FLOOD PREVENTION OPERATIONS

       The agreement provides $35,000,000 for Watershed and Flood 
     Prevention Operations (WFPO).

[[Page S1290]]

  



                    WATERSHED REHABILITATION PROGRAM

       The agreement provides $1,000,000 for the Watershed 
     Rehabilitation Program.

                              CORPORATIONS

                Federal Crop Insurance Corporation Fund

       The agreement provides such sums as may be necessary for 
     the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation Fund.

                   Commodity Credit Corporation Fund


                 REIMBURSEMENT FOR NET REALIZED LOSSES

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)

       The agreement provides such sums as may be necessary for 
     Reimbursement for Net Realized Losses of the Commodity Credit 
     Corporation.


                       HAZARDOUS WASTE MANAGEMENT

                        (LIMITATION ON EXPENSES)

       The agreement provides a limitation of $15,000,000 for 
     Hazardous Waste Management.

                               TITLE III

                       RURAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS

          Office of the Under Secretary for Rural Development

       The agreement provides $1,620,000 for the Office of the 
     Under Secretary for Rural Development. The agreement notes 
     that careful consideration was given to unobligated balances 
     in determining the levels provided in this title.
       The agreement encourages Rural Development (RD) to 
     prioritize proposals for the Meat and Poultry Processing 
     Expansion Program that support the processing of invasive 
     wild-caught catfish.
       The agreement requests the Department explore options to 
     streamline and coordinate existing Federal programs serving 
     border colonias and farmworkers, including housing, 
     healthcare, water infrastructure, and broadband programs, 
     including consideration of establishing an `Office of 
     Colonias and Farmworker Initiatives'.

                           Rural Development


                         salaries and expenses

                     (including transfers of funds)

       The agreement provides $801,079,000 for Salaries and 
     Expenses of Rural Development, including a direct 
     appropriation of $351,087,000.
       The agreement continues to provide funding to update or 
     retire legacy systems and directs USDA to submit quarterly 
     updates on IT improvements.

                         Rural Housing Service


              rural housing insurance fund program account

                     (including transfers of funds)

       The agreement provides a total budget authority of 
     $572,184,000 for activities under the Rural Housing Insurance 
     Fund Program Account.
       The following table indicates loan, subsidy, and grant 
     levels provided by the agreement:

                         (Dollars in thousands)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Loan authorizations:
Single family housing (sec. 502)
  Direct...................................................     $880,000
  Single Family Relending Demonstration....................        5,000
  Unsubsidized guaranteed..................................   25,000,000
Housing repair (sec. 504)..................................       25,000
Rental housing (sec. 515)..................................       60,000
Multi-family guaranteed (sec. 538).........................      400,000
Site development loans (sec. 524)..........................        5,000
Credit sales of acquired property..........................       10,000
Self-help housing land development (sec. 523)..............        5,000
Farm labor housing.........................................       15,000
                                                            ============
    Total, Loan authorizations.............................  $26,405,000
Loan subsidies, grants & administrative expenses:
Single family housing (sec. 502)
  Direct...................................................      $84,480
  Single Family Relending Demonstration....................        2,288
Housing repair (sec. 504)..................................        4,338
Rental housing (sec. 515)..................................       20,988
Multifamily Housing Revitalization.........................       34,000
Farm labor housing (sec. 514)..............................        5,222
Site development loans (sec. 524)..........................          477
Self-help land development (sec. 523)......................          637
                                                            ------------
    Total, loan subsidies..................................      152,430
Farm labor housing grants..................................        7,500
                                                            ------------
    Total, loan subsidies and grants.......................      159,930
Administrative expenses (transfer to RD)...................      412,254
                                                            ============
    Total, Loan subsidies, grants, and administrative           $572,184
     expenses..............................................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

                       rental assistance program

       The agreement provides $1,608,000,000 for the Rental 
     Assistance Program.
       The agreement accepts the Department's proposal to decouple 
     the Rental Assistance Program from Section 515 direct loans. 
     This strategy should only be used when all other methods of 
     preservation are exhausted and should prioritize properties 
     that are near maturity. In implementing this policy, the 
     agreement directs the Department to have strong stakeholder 
     engagement and to provide the Committees with monthly updates 
     on the implementation of this policy.


                     rural housing voucher account

       The agreement provides $48,000,000 for the Rural Housing 
     Voucher Account.


                  mutual and self-help housing grants

       The agreement provides $25,000,000 for Mutual and Self-Help 
     Housing Grants.


                    rural housing assistance grants

       The agreement provides $35,000,000 for Rural Housing 
     Assistance Grants.
       The following table reflects the grant levels provided by 
     the agreement:

                         (Dollars in thousands)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Very low income housing repair grants......................      $25,000
Housing preservation grants................................       10,000
                                                            ============
    Total, grant program...................................      $35,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

               rural community facilities program account

                     (including transfers of funds)

       The agreement provides $18,000,000 for the Rural Community 
     Facilities Program Account. Section 778 provides $505,023,927 
     for Community Project Funding/Congressionally Directed 
     Spending for Community Facilities projects.
       The agreement directs the Department to submit a report to 
     the Committees of all direct loans where there was a 
     completed favorable analysis for eligibility but that were 
     subsequently determined to be ineligible due to population 
     calculation changes or other modeling errors, including a 
     description of actions taken by the Department to minimize 
     disruption to community planning initiatives and prevent 
     future inaccurate determinations.
       The following table reflects the loan, subsidy, and grant 
     amounts provided by the agreement:

                         (Dollars in thousands)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Loan authorizations:
  CF direct loans..........................................   $2,800,000
  CF guaranteed loans......................................      650,000
Loan subsidies and grants:
  CF grants................................................        5,000
  Rural Community Development Initiative...................        5,000
  Tribal college grants....................................        8,000
                                                            ============
    Total, subsidy and grants..............................      $18,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

                  Rural Business--Cooperative Service


                     rural business program account

                     (including transfers of funds)

       The agreement provides $66,615,000 for the Rural Business 
     Program Account. The agreement provides $1,600,000,000 in 
     loan authority for the Business and Industry Guaranteed Loan 
     Program. The agreement provides $500,000 for transportation 
     technical assistance and provides $4,000,000 for grants to 
     benefit Federally Recognized Native American Tribes, of which 
     $250,000 shall be used to continue the American Indian and 
     Alaska Native passenger transportation development and 
     assistance initiative.
       An additional $9,465,000 is provided in Section 780 for 
     Rural Business Development Grants.
       The following table reflects the loan, subsidy, and grant 
     levels provided by the agreement:

                         (Dollars in thousands)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Loan level:
  Business and industry guaranteed loans...................   $1,600,000
Loan subsidy and grants:
  Business and industry guaranteed loans...................       38,080
  Rural business development grants........................       20,535
  Delta Regional Authority/ARC/NBRC/SWBRC..................        8,000
                                                            ============
    Total, Rural Business Program subsidy and grants.......      $66,615
------------------------------------------------------------------------

              intermediary relending program fund account

                     (including transfer of funds)

       The agreement provides $7,503,000 for the Intermediary 
     Relending Program Fund Account.
       The following table reflects the loan and subsidy levels 
     provided by the agreement:

                         (Dollars in thousands)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Loan level:
  Estimated loan level.....................................      $10,000
Subsidies and administrative expenses:
  Direct loan subsidy level................................        3,035
  Administrative Expenses..................................        4,468
                                                            ============
  Subtotal, subsidies and administrative expenses..........       $7,503
------------------------------------------------------------------------

            rural economic development loans program account

       The agreement provides $50,000,000 in loan authority for 
     the Rural Economic Development Loans Program Account.


                  rural cooperative development grants

       The agreement provides $24,600,000 for Rural Cooperative 
     Development Grants. Of amounts made available, $13,000,000 is 
     for the Value-Added Producer Grant Program and $2,800,000 is 
     for the Appropriate Technology Transfer for Rural Areas 
     Program.


               rural microentrepreneur assistance program

       The agreement provides $5,000,000 for the Rural 
     Microentrepreneur Assistance Program.


                    rural energy for america program

       The agreement provides $50,000,000 in loan authority for 
     the Rural Energy for America Program.


                   healthy food financing initiative

       The agreement provides $500,000 for the Healthy Food 
     Financing Initiative and notes that additional funding was 
     provided for this program through the American Rescue Plan 
     Act.

                        Rural Utilities Service


             rural water and waste disposal program account

                     (including transfers of funds)

       The agreement provides $595,972,000 for the Rural Utilities 
     Service Rural Water and Waste Disposal Program Account.
       The following table reflects the loan, subsidy, and grant 
     levels provided by the agreement:

                         (Dollars in thousands)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Loan authorizations:
  Water and waste direct loans.......................           $860,000

[[Page S1291]]

 
  Water and waste guaranteed loans...................             50,000
Subsidies and grants:
  Water and waste direct loan subsidy................             73,670
  Water and waste revolving fund.....................              1,000
  Water well system grants...........................              5,000
  Grants for Colonias, Native Americans, and Alaska               65,000
   Native Villages...................................
  Water and waste technical assistance grants........             35,000
  Circuit Rider program..............................             21,817
  Solid waste management grants......................              4,000
  High energy cost grants............................              8,000
  Water and waste disposal grants....................            255,000
  Community Project Funding/Congressionally Directed             117,485
   Spending..........................................
  306A(i)(2) grants..................................             10,000
                                                      ==================
    Total, subsidies and grants......................           $595,972
------------------------------------------------------------------------

   rural electrification and telecommunications loans program account

                     (including transfer of funds)

       The agreement provides $42,568,000 for activities under the 
     Rural Electrification and Telecommunications Loans Program 
     Account.
       The following table indicates loan and subsidy levels 
     provided by the agreement:

                         (Dollars in thousands)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Loan authorizations:
Electric:
  Direct, FFB........................................         $2,167,000
  Direct, Treasury...................................          4,333,000
  Guaranteed underwriting............................            900,000
  Rural Energy Savings Program.......................             20,000
                                                      ------------------
  Subtotal, electric.................................          7,420,000
Telecommunications:
  Direct, treasury rate..............................            550,000
Loan subsidy:
  Direct, treasury rate..............................              5,720
  Rural Energy Savings Program.......................              3,578
Administrative expenses..............................             33,270
                                                      ==================
    Total, budget authority..........................            $42,568
------------------------------------------------------------------------

         distance learning, telemedicine, and broadband program

       The agreement provides $169,959,000 for the Distance 
     Learning, Telemedicine, and Broadband Program.
       The following table reflects the loan, subsidy, and grant 
     levels provided by the agreement:

                         (Dollars in thousands)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Subsidy and grants:
  Distance learning and telemedicine grants..........            $40,000
  DLT Community Project Funding/Congressionally                    9,574
   Directed Spending.................................
  Broadband ReConnect Loans and Grants...............             90,000
  ReConnect Community Project Funding/Congressionally             10,385
   Directed Spending.................................
Broadband telecommunications program:
  Community Connect Grants...........................             20,000
                                                      ==================
    Total, subsidies and grants......................           $169,959
------------------------------------------------------------------------

                                TITLE IV

                         DOMESTIC FOOD PROGRAMS

    Office of the Under Secretary for Food, Nutrition, and Consumer 
                                Services

       The agreement provides $1,127,000 for the Office of the 
     Under Secretary for Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services.

                       Food and Nutrition Service


                        child nutrition programs

                     (including transfers of funds)

       The agreement provides $33,266,226,000 for Child Nutrition 
     Programs.
       The agreement is concerned that USDA's Thrifty Food Plan 
     adjustment for Hawaii omits the price of food in rural and 
     remote regions of the state. The agreement encourages USDA to 
     review the adjustment and include the price of food 
     throughout the state of Hawaii.
       The agreement provides the following for Child Nutrition 
     Programs:

                      TOTAL OBLIGATIONAL AUTHORITY
                         (Dollars in thousands)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
School lunch program....................................     $16,625,141
School breakfast program................................       6,140,966
Child and adult care food program.......................       4,244,181
Summer food service program.............................         859,291
Summer EBT Benefits.....................................       2,522,000
Special milk program....................................           6,651
State administrative expenses...........................         743,591
Commodity procurement...................................       1,948,518
Team Nutrition..........................................          18,004
Food safety education...................................           4,196
Coordinated review......................................          10,000
Computer support and processing.........................          33,738
CACFP training and technical assistance.................          50,996
Child Nutrition Program studies and evaluations.........          21,005
Child Nutrition payment accuracy........................          15,515
Farm to school tactical team............................           6,433
School meals equipment grants...........................          10,000
Child Nutrition Training................................           1,000
Farm to School Grants...................................           5,000
                                                         ===============
    Total...............................................     $33,266,226
------------------------------------------------------------------------

special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, and children 
                                 (wic)

       For the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, 
     Infants, and Children, the agreement provides $7,030,000,000.
       The agreement directs the Secretary to not reduce the 
     maximum monthly allowance with respect to milk when 
     submitting a final rule to the proposed rule entitled 
     ``Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, 
     and Children (WIC): Revisions to the WIC Food Packages'' 
     published in the Federal Register on November 21, 2022 (87 
     Fed. Reg. 71090). In finalizing this rule, USDA is also 
     encouraged to consider the impact a whole grain only cereal 
     standard may have on WIC participant cereal options and 
     consumption of essential nutrients.


               supplemental nutrition assistance program

       The agreement provides $122,382,521,000 for the 
     Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. The agreement does 
     not provide the requested $100,000,000 within mandatory other 
     program costs to establish a new grant program.
       FNS is encouraged to work with Medicaid practitioners 
     through the SNAP-Ed program to provide nutrition education to 
     their patients on the importance of a healthy diet to prevent 
     negative health outcomes.
       The agreement provides the following for SNAP:

                      TOTAL OBLIGATIONAL AUTHORITY
                         (Dollars in Thousands)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Benefits.............................................       $108,300,851
Contingency reserve..................................          3,000,000
Administrative costs:
  State administrative costs.........................          5,874,192
  Nutrition Education and Obesity Prevention Grant               524,000
   Program...........................................
  Employment and Training............................            663,465
  Mandatory other program costs......................            397,352
  Discretionary other program costs..................              6,998
                                                      ------------------
Administrative subtotal..............................          7,466,007
Nutrition Assistance for Puerto Rico (NAP)...........          2,930,332
American Samoa.......................................             11,768
Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations.....            165,001
TEFAP commodities....................................            463,750
Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.........             34,812
Community Food Projects..............................              5,000
Program access.......................................              5,000
                                                      ------------------
Subtotal.............................................          3,615,663
                                                      ==================
    Total............................................       $122,382,521
------------------------------------------------------------------------

                      commodity assistance program

       The agreement recommends an appropriation of $480,070,000 
     for the Commodity Assistance Program. This includes 
     $389,000,000 for the Commodity Supplemental Food Program; 
     $10,000,000 for the Farmers' Market Nutrition Program; 
     $80,000,000 for administrative funding for the Emergency Food 
     Assistance Program; and $1,070,000 for the Food Donation 
     Programs for Pacific Island Assistance.


                   nutrition programs administration

       The agreement provides $177,348,000 for Nutrition Programs 
     Administration.

                                TITLE V

                FOREIGN ASSISTANCE AND RELATED PROGRAMS

   Office of the Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural 
                                Affairs

       The agreement provides $932,000 for the Office of the Under 
     Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs.

                      Office of Codex Alimentarius

       The agreement provides $4,922,000 for the Office of Codex 
     Alimentarius.

                      Foreign Agricultural Service


                         salaries and expenses

                     (including transfers of funds)

       The agreement provides $227,330,000 for the Foreign 
     Agricultural Service and a transfer of $6,063,000.

                     Food for Peace Title II Grants

       The agreement provides $1,619,107,000 for Food for Peace 
     Title II Grants and an additional $68,476,000 in Section 778 
     of this division. The agreement also notes the Secretary's 
     announcement on October 24 that USDA would allocate an 
     additional $1,060,000,000 from the CCC for international food 
     assistance.

           McGovern-Dole International Food for Education and


                     child nutrition program grants

       The agreement provides $240,000,000 for the McGovern-Dole 
     International Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program.

              Commodity Credit Corporation Export (Loans)


                    credit guarantee program account

                     (including transfers of funds)

       The agreement provides $6,063,000 for the Commodity Credit 
     Corporation Export (Loans) Credit Guarantee Program Account.

                                TITLE VI

           RELATED AGENCIES AND FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION

                Department of Health and Human Services


                      food and drug administration

                         salaries and expenses

                     (including transfers of funds)

       The agreement provides $3,522,150,000 in discretionary 
     budget authority and $3,199,632,000 in definite user fees for 
     a total of $6,721,782,000. This total does not include 
     permanent, indefinite user fees for the Mammography Quality 
     Standards Act; Color Certification; Export Certification; 
     Priority Review Vouchers Pediatric Disease; Food and Feed 
     Recall; Food Reinspection; Voluntary Qualified Importer 
     Program; the Third Party Auditor Program; Outsourcing 
     Facility; and Over-the-Counter Monograph.
       The agreement notes that, since fiscal year 2014, Congress 
     has increased FDA budget authority by $1,065,023,000 to meet 
     operational needs so that the agency can respond to issues 
     such as the infant formula crisis, as well as invest in new 
     technologies to advance drug and device safety. In addition 
     to this funding, the FDA has also received an additional 
     $1,060,000,000 in emergency spending for public health 
     emergencies to address COVID, Zika, and Ebola. In the current 
     fiscal climate, funding decisions need to be reevaluated, 
     therefore FDA is directed to submit to the Committees a 
     table, totaling at

[[Page S1292]]

     least $50,000,000 of funds that can be repurposed to meet the 
     following items identified in the budget: ALS, Drug and 
     Device Shortages, and Information Technology, and at least 
     $8,500,000, of which $7,000,000 is for Cosmetics Regulation 
     Implementation and $1,500,000 is to be used to Reduce Animal 
     Testing through Alternative Methods. In addition, the 
     agreement directs the FDA to maintain fiscal year 2023 
     funding levels for the Neurology Drug Program and the 
     Emerging Chemical and Toxicology Issues Program. The 
     agreement provides specific amounts by FDA activity as 
     reflected in the following table:

            FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION SALARIES & EXPENSES
                         (Dollars in thousands)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Budget Authority:
  Foods.................................................      $1,185,989
  Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition..........         404,806
    Field Activities....................................         781,183
  Human Drugs...........................................         719,540
  Center for Drug Evaluation and Research...............         513,638
    Field Activities....................................         205,902
  Biologics.............................................         267,130
  Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research..........         219,828
    Field Activities....................................          47,302
  Animal Drugs and Feeds................................         229,362
  Center for Veterinary Medicine........................         148,484
    Field Activities....................................          80,878
  Devices and Radiological Products.....................         444,534
  Center for Devices and Radiological Health............         352,697
    Field Activities....................................          91,837
National Center for Toxicological Research..............          77,505
Other Activities/Office of the Commissioner.............         224,427
White Oak Consolidation.................................          52,498
Other Rent and Rent Related Activities..................         154,879
GSA Rent................................................         166,286
                                                         ---------------
    Subtotal, Budget Authority..........................       3,522,150
User Fees:
Prescription Drug User Fee Act..........................       1,422,104
Medical Device User Fee and Modernization Act...........         362,381
Human Generic Drug User Fee Act.........................         613,538
Biosimilar User Fee Act.................................          31,109
Animal Drug User Fee Act................................          33,500
Animal Generic Drug User Fee Act........................          25,000
Tobacco Product User Fees...............................         712,000
                                                         ---------------
    Subtotal, User Fees.................................       3,199,632
                                                         ===============
        Total, FDA Program Level........................      $6,721,782
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       The agreement applauds FDA's efforts to advance precision 
     oncology, which is improving patients' access to new targeted 
     therapies and immunotherapies, and notes that FDA has a 
     voluntary pilot program intended to evaluate the risks when 
     targeted cancer treatments are approved without a companion 
     diagnostic. The agreement directs FDA to provide a report 
     lining its goals and metrics for success (including how the 
     pilot program is consistent with a risk-based approach 
     designed to protect patients from inaccurate test results) 
     prior to expanding the initial phase of the pilot program, 
     initiating a reclassification, or proposing modifications to 
     existing companion diagnostic guidance.
       The agreement recognizes FDA has completed its first pre-
     market consultation for a human food made from cultured 
     animal cells. The agreement requests a report to the 
     Committees within 90 days of enactment of this Act outlining 
     the pre-market consultation process for cell-cultured protein 
     products and any agency plans to coordinate with its 
     counterparts at USDA on further action regarding the same 
     products.
       The agreement recognizes that FDA has the authority, when 
     necessary, to ban a device for one or more intended uses when 
     it finds the device demonstrates substantial deception or 
     unreasonable risk.
       Prior to dedicating resources on front of package labeling 
     activities, the agreement requests that FDA submit an 
     explanation of FDA's statutory authority to impose such 
     mandatory labeling requirements.
       The agreement notes that there is some controversy 
     regarding the use of enriched enrollment, randomized 
     withdrawal (EERW) clinical trial designs. The agreement thus 
     directs FDA to continue to review the value of EERW 
     methodology for its use in evaluating new marketing 
     applications for prescription opioid analgesics and to review 
     EERW's use in approving opioid analgesics currently on the 
     market.
       In 2022, Congress passed legislation to update the Family 
     Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act to close a 
     loophole that certain manufacturers were exploiting to 
     circumvent regulation. The legislation stated that to remain 
     in the market, manufacturers must receive an authorization 
     from the FDA Center for Tobacco Products by July 14, 2022. To 
     date, FDA has not granted any authorizations for synthetic 
     products. The agreement understands that products containing 
     synthetic nicotine continue to remain in the market. The 
     agreement strongly urges the Center for Tobacco Products to 
     immediately remove any product containing synthetic nicotine 
     from the market whether or not such product is the subject of 
     a pending Premarket Tobacco Product Application (PMTA) 
     application filed in 2022, until such applications for 
     synthetic products are authorized.
       The agreement notes that the Tropical Disease Priority 
     Review Voucher (PRV) Program was authorized in 2007 to 
     provide an important incentive for the development of a drug 
     or biological product for the prevention or treatment of a 
     tropical disease from an established list of ``qualifying'' 
     tropical diseases, and this list has not been updated since 
     July 2020. Given that PRV programs are a critical pathway for 
     the development of medical products to treat or prevent rare 
     tropical diseases, FDA is directed to maintain the necessary 
     resources to evaluate PRV candidates in a timely manner.
       The agreement commends the strong and consistent leadership 
     of the Center for Biologics and continues to closely monitor 
     the promise of cell and gene therapy for patients, 
     particularly children. The agreement expresses support for 
     FDA leadership's commitment to remain the gold standard in 
     understanding novel treatments and reviewing them based on 
     current science and with all due urgency where unmet medical 
     need exists.
       The agreement notes that the Office of Congressional 
     Appropriations has been operating without a permanent 
     director since June of 2022 and directs the Commissioner to 
     prioritize filling this position.
       The agreement directs FDA to brief the Committee within 120 
     days of enactment of this Act regarding the agency's existing 
     tools to comprehensively track prescription drugs imported 
     into the U.S. through section 804 importation programs as 
     well as enforcement resources available to ensure that FDA 
     can ensure safe and effective imports.
       The agreement is concerned by reports of both drug and 
     device companies knowingly withholding research that showed 
     their products had adverse health outcomes. The agreement 
     requests a briefing within 90 days of enactment of this Act 
     regarding the agency's surveillance and enforcement efforts 
     to ensure accountability for companies that withhold material 
     information concerning unsafe drug products.


                        buildings and facilities

       The agreement provides $5,000,000 for FDA Buildings and 
     Facilities.

                   FDA Innovation Account, Cures Act


                     (including transfer of funds)

       The agreement provides $50,000,000 for FDA as authorized in 
     the 21st Century Cures Act.

                          INDEPENDENT AGENCIES

                  Commodity Futures Trading Commission


                     (including transfer of funds)

       The agreement provides $365,000,000 for the Commodity 
     Futures Trading Commission.

                       Farm Credit Administration


                 limitation on administrative expenses

       The agreement includes a limitation of $94,300,000 on 
     administrative expenses of the Farm Credit Administration.

                               TITLE VII

                           GENERAL PROVISIONS


             (including rescissions and transfers of funds)

       Section 701.--The bill includes language regarding motor 
     vehicles.
       Section 702.--The bill includes language regarding the 
     Working Capital Fund at USDA.
       Section 703.--The bill includes language limiting funding 
     provided in the bill to one year unless otherwise specified.
       Section 704.--The bill includes language regarding indirect 
     cost share.
       Section 705.--The bill includes language regarding the 
     availability of loan funds in Rural Development programs.
       Section 706.--The bill includes language regarding new 
     information technology systems.
       Section 707.--The bill includes language regarding fund 
     availability in the Agriculture Management Assistance 
     program.
       Section 708.--The bill includes language regarding Rural 
     Utilities Service program eligibility.
       Section 709.--The bill includes language regarding funds 
     for information technology expenses for the Farm Service 
     Agency.
       Section 710.--The bill includes language prohibiting first-
     class airline travel.
       Section 711.--The bill includes language regarding the 
     availability of certain funds of the Commodity Credit 
     Corporation.
       Section 712.--The bill includes language regarding funding 
     for advisory committees.
       Section 713.--The bill includes language regarding IT 
     system regulations.
       Section 714.--The bill includes language regarding Section 
     32 activities.
       Section 715.--The bill includes language regarding user fee 
     proposals without offsets.
       Section 716.--The bill includes language regarding the 
     reprogramming of funds and notification requirements.
       Section 717.--The bill includes language regarding fees for 
     the guaranteed business and industry loan program.
       Section 718.--The bill includes language regarding the 
     appropriations hearing process.
       Section 719.--The bill includes language regarding 
     government-sponsored news stories.
       Section 720.--The bill includes language regarding details 
     and assignments of USDA employees.
       Section 721.--The bill includes language requiring spend 
     plans.
       Section 722.--The bill includes language regarding 
     electronically available information for prescribing 
     healthcare professionals.
       Section 723.--The bill includes language regarding Rural 
     Development programs.
       Section 724.--The bill includes language regarding USDA 
     loan program levels.
       Section 725.--The bill includes language regarding credit 
     card refunds and rebates.
       Section 726.--The bill includes language regarding the 
     definition of the term ``variety'' in SNAP.
       Section 727.--The bill includes language regarding the 
     Secretary's authority with respect to the 502 guaranteed loan 
     program.
       Section 728.--The bill includes language regarding user 
     fees.
       Section 729.--The bill includes language regarding a 
     rescission of funds.

[[Page S1293]]

       Section 730.--The bill includes language regarding the Food 
     Safety and Inspection Service.
       Section 731.--The bill includes language regarding country 
     or regional audits.
       Section 732.--The bill includes language regarding a 
     rescission of funds.
       Section 733.--The bill includes language regarding a 
     rescission of funds.
       Section 734.--The bill includes language regarding U.S. 
     iron and steel products in public water or wastewater 
     systems.
       Section 735.--The bill includes language regarding 
     lobbying.
       Section 736.--The bill includes language regarding 
     persistent poverty counties.
       Section 737.--The bill includes language regarding 
     investigational use of drugs or biological products.
       Section 738.--The bill includes language regarding the 
     growing, harvesting, packing, and holding of certain produce.
       Section 739.--The bill includes language regarding the 
     school breakfast program.
       Section 740.--The bill includes language regarding hemp.
       Section 741.--The bill includes language regarding matching 
     fund requirements.
       Section 742.--The bill includes language regarding land 
     ownership.
       Section 743.--The bill provides funding for a pilot program 
     related to multi-family housing borrowers.
       Section 744.--The bill includes language regarding a 
     rescission of funds.
       Section 745.--The bill includes language regarding the Food 
     and Drug Administration.
       Section 746.--The bill includes language regarding Food for 
     Peace.
       Section 747.--The bill includes language relating to the 
     use of raw or processed poultry and seafood products from the 
     People's Republic of China in various domestic nutrition 
     programs.
       Section 748.--The bill includes language regarding certain 
     school food lunch prices.
       Section 749.--The bill includes language regarding 
     biotechnology risk assessment research.
       Section 750.--The bill includes language regarding USDA 
     reorganizations.
       Section 751.--The bill includes language regarding the 
     Agriculture Conservation Experiences Services Program.
       Section 752.--The bill includes language regarding the 
     ReConnect program.
       Section 753.--The bill provides funding for the Water Bank 
     program.
       Section 754.--The bill includes language regarding FDA 
     advice about eating seafood.
       Section 755.--The bill provides funding for Meat and 
     Poultry Processing Expansion.
       Section 756.--The bill includes language regarding Rural 
     Economic Area Partnership Zones.
       Section 757.--The bill includes language related to Rural 
     Development Programs.
       Section 758.--The bill provides funding for a pilot 
     program.
       Section 759.--The bill includes language regarding 
     listeria.
       Section 760.--The bill includes language regarding Section 
     523 Housing.
       Section 761.--The bill includes language regarding Section 
     524 Housing.
       Section 762.--The bill includes language regarding the 
     Multifamily Mortgage Foreclosure Act.
       Section 763.--The bill includes language regarding sodium 
     reductions.
       Section 764.--The bill provides funding for bison 
     marketing.
       Section 765.--The bill provides funding for bison 
     inspection.
       Section 766.--The bill includes language regarding a 
     rescission of funds.
       Section 767.--The bill includes language regarding Animal 
     and Plant Health Inspection Service pay.
       Section 768.--The bill includes language regarding the 
     Federal Meat Inspection Act.
       Section 769.--The bill includes language regarding child 
     nutrition programs.
       Section 770.--The bill includes language regarding child 
     nutrition programs.
       Section 771.--The bill provides funding to carry out 
     section 2103 of Public Law 115-334.
       Section 772.--The bill provides funding to carry out 
     section 12502 of Public Law 115-334.
       Section 773.--The bill includes language regarding the 
     Dietary Guidelines.
       Section 774.--The bill includes language regarding 
     Community Facility programs.
       Section 775.--The bill includes language regarding certain 
     unobligated balances.
       Section 776.--The bill includes language regarding certain 
     unobligated balances.
       Section 777.--The bill includes language regarding certain 
     unobligated balances.
       Section 778.--The bill includes language repurposing funds.
       Section 779.--The bill includes language regarding the 
     Nonrecurring Expenses Fund.
       Section 780.--The bill includes language regarding certain 
     unobligated balances.
       Section 781.--The bill includes language regarding 
     genetically engineered salmon.
       Section 782.--The bill provides funding for an Institute 
     for Rural Partnerships.
       Section 783.--The bill provides funding for a working 
     group.
       Section 784.--The bill includes language regarding certain 
     unobligated balances.
       Section 785.--The bill includes language regarding a 
     rescission of funds.
       Section 786.--The bill provides funding for a pilot 
     program.
       Section 787.--The bill includes language regarding land 
     purchases.
       Section 788.--The bill includes language regarding certain 
     unobligated balances.
       Section 789.--The bill includes language regarding certain 
     unobligated balances.
       Section 790.--The bill includes language regarding certain 
     unobligated balances.
       Section 791.--The bill includes language regarding certain 
     unobligated balances.
       Section 792.--The bill includes language regarding the 
     Office of the General Counsel.
       Section 793.--The bill includes language regarding 
     Livestock Mandatory Reporting.

   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 C--COMMERCE, JUSTICE, SCIENCE, AND RELATED AGENCIES 
                        APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2024

       The joint explanatory statement accompanying this division 
     is approved and indicates congressional intent. Unless 
     otherwise noted, the language set forth in Senate Report 118-
     62 (``the Senate report'') 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 or the act. 
     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 Senate report 
     directs the submission of a report, such report is to be 
     submitted to both the House and Senate Committees on 
     Appropriations (``the Committees'').
       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. 
     Reprogramming procedures shall apply to: funds provided in 
     this act; unobligated balances from previous appropriations 
     acts that are available for obligation or expenditure in 
     fiscal year 2024; and non-appropriated resources such as fee 
     collections that are used to meet program requirements in 
     fiscal year 2024. These procedures are specified in section 
     505 of this act.
       Any reprogramming request shall include any out-year 
     budgetary impacts and a separate accounting of program or 
     mission impacts on estimated carryover funds. Any program, 
     project, or activity cited in this explanatory statement, or 
     in the Senate report and not changed by this act, shall be 
     construed as the position of the Congress and shall not be 
     subject to reductions or reprogramming without prior approval 
     of the Committees. Further, any department or agency funded 
     in this act that plans a reduction-in-force shall notify the 
     Committees by letter no later than 30 days in advance of the 
     date of any such planned personnel action.
       When a department or agency submits a reprogramming or 
     transfer request to the Committees and does not receive 
     identical responses, it shall be the responsibility of the 
     department or agency seeking the reprogramming to reconcile 
     the differences between the two bodies before proceeding. If 
     reconciliation is not possible, the items in disagreement in 
     the reprogramming or transfer request shall be considered 
     unapproved. Departments and agencies shall not submit 
     reprogramming notifications after July 1, 2024, except in 
     extraordinary circumstances. Any such notification shall 
     include a description of the extraordinary circumstances.
       In compliance with section 528 of this act, each department 
     and agency funded in this act shall submit spending plans, 
     signed by the respective department or agency head, for the 
     Committees' review not later than 45 days after the date of 
     enactment of this act.
       The Government Accountability Office (GAO) shall conduct 
     ongoing reviews of large National Aeronautics and Space 
     Administration (NASA) projects and major research equipment 
     and facilities construction at the National Science 
     Foundation, with reports to the Committees on a semiannual 
     basis. The agencies shall provide access to all necessary 
     data, as determined by GAO, in order for these reviews to be 
     completed and provided to the Committees in a timely manner.
       The departments and agencies funded in this act are 
     directed to submit reports by the deadlines detailed herein 
     or to provide advance notification if there is sufficient 
     reason why deadlines cannot be met, along with the expected 
     date of submission.
       Some enduring reporting requirements from previous 
     appropriations laws may no longer be necessary for 
     congressional oversight purposes. In the interest of reducing 
     government waste and expediting responses to current report 
     mandates, each department or agency is invited to submit a 
     list of reporting requirements that it considers outdated or 
     no longer relevant for the review of the Committees. Any list 
     submitted for review shall cite the original authority, as 
     well as a justification for eliminating each reporting 
     requirement.
       For fiscal year 2024, all agencies and departments funded 
     in this act are directed to follow prior year direction 
     adopted in Public Law 116-93, on the following topics for 
     this fiscal year: ``Fighting Waste, Fraud, and Abuse,'' 
     ``Federal Vehicle Fleet Management,'' ``Reducing Duplication 
     and Improving Efficiencies,'' ``Reprogrammings, 
     Reorganizations, and Relocations,'' ``Congressional Budget 
     Justifications,'' ``Reporting Requirements'' and 
     ``Reductions-in-Force.''
       The agreement urges the Departments of Commerce and 
     Justice, the National Science Foundation, and NASA to work 
     with the Office of Management and Budget to reduce printing 
     and reproduction costs and directs each agency to report to 
     the Committees within 60 days of enactment of this act on the 
     steps it has taken to achieve this goal. The report should 
     specifically identify how much funding each agency expects to 
     save by implementing these measures.
       The agreement directs each of the agencies funded by this 
     act to comply with 31 U.S.C. 1115, including the development 
     of their organizational priority goals and outcomes such as 
     performance outcome measures, output measures, efficiency 
     measures, and customer service measures. The agreement 
     further directs agencies funded in this act to report on 
     their plans to comply with the requirements of 31 U.S.C. 1115 
     within 90 days of enactment of this act.
       Each agency funded in this act shall ensure that its 
     employees understand and are in compliance with 5 C.F.R. 
     2635.101.

                                TITLE I

                         DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

                   International Trade Administration


                     OPERATIONS AND ADMINISTRATION

       The agreement includes $623,000,000 in total resources for 
     the International Trade Administration (ITA). This amount is 
     offset by $12,000,000 in estimated fee collections, resulting 
     in a direct appropriation of $611,000,000.
       For fiscal year 2024, ITA is directed to continue following 
     the directive under the heading ``Antidumping and 
     Countervailing Duties (AD/CVD) Evasion'' in the joint 
     explanatory statement accompanying Public Law 117-328.
       Travel and Tourism.--The agreement provides up to the 
     requested level of $3,500,000 for ITA to implement the 
     ``Visit America Act.''
       Aluminum Import Monitoring (AIM).--The agreement encourages 
     ITA to regularly consult with U.S. aluminum manufacturers to 
     ensure the AIM system supports the full value chain of the 
     U.S. aluminum industry.
       Indo-Pacific Operations.--The agreement notes that trade is 
     an area of cooperation frequently requested by Pacific 
     Islands nations and provides an opportunity for the United 
     States to reinforce itself as the partner of choice in a 
     region with increasing competition from the People's Republic 
     of China (PRC). The agreement directs ITA to provide a report 
     to the Committees, no later than 180 days after the enactment 
     of this act, that summarizes Foreign Commercial Service (FCS) 
     operations in the Indo-Pacific and details any proposals for 
     increasing U.S. business and investment in the region.
       State Department Coordination.--The agreement acknowledges 
     the PRC's unfair trade practices and economic coercion, in 
     particular, as part of its Belt and Road Initiative. The 
     agreement directs FCS to coordinate with the U.S. Department 
     of State to ensure FCS officers are aligning their activities 
     with U.S. foreign policy and located in regions critical to 
     strategic competition, including competition with the PRC. 
     The agreement further directs ITA to provide a report to the 
     Committees, no later than 180 days after the enactment of 
     this act, summarizing its coordination efforts with the State 
     Department.
       Ukraine.--The agreement directs ITA to provide a report to 
     the Committees, no later than 180 days after enactment of 
     this act, identifying ways to facilitate the expansion of 
     U.S. economic engagement with Ukraine. The report should 
     identify ways to increase direct engagement with Ukrainian 
     businesses and ITA programs that could be harnessed to assist 
     with Ukraine's agricultural sector while enhancing U.S. 
     export competitiveness.
       Supply Chain Resilience.--The Senate report language under 
     this same heading is clarified to encourage ITA, within the 
     funds provided, to establish a supply chain resiliency office 
     within Industry and Analysis. The agreement also encourages 
     ITA, within funds provided, to prioritize efforts to support 
     the resilience of supply chains that are critical to U.S. 
     national security and economic competitiveness.
       United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) 
     Secretariat.--The agreement provides up to the fiscal year 
     2023 enacted level for ITA to continue to support the U.S. 
     Section of the Secretariat, authorized by the USMCA 
     Implementation Act (Public Law 116-113).
       Rural Export Assistance.--The agreement encourages ITA to 
     prioritize expanding international trade opportunities for 
     rural businesses. The agreement provides no less than the 
     fiscal year 2023 enacted level for rural export centers (REC) 
     and no less than $1,500,000 for the national rural export 
     center. Prior to obligating funds to open any new REC, hire 
     additional staff based at such new centers, and modify 
     existing rural export centers, ITA shall submit a detailed 
     spending plan, which shall include a staffing plan and a 
     justification for the establishment of any new center or 
     modification of an existing center.
       Section 232 Tariff Exclusions.--The Senate report language 
     under this heading is clarified to provide up to the fiscal 
     year 2023 enacted level to support the review of requests for 
     exclusion from steel and aluminum tariffs applied under 
     section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962.

                    Bureau of Industry and Security


                     OPERATIONS AND ADMINISTRATION

       The agreement includes $191,000,000 for the Bureau of 
     Industry and Security (BIS).
       Supply Chain Security.--The agreement supports the 
     enforcement and implementation of BIS's responsibilities 
     related to Executive Order 13873, ``Securing the Information 
     and Communications Technology and Services Supply Chain.''
       Export Control Reform Act.--BIS is encouraged to identify 
     emerging foundational technologies and establish appropriate 
     controls pursuant to section 1758 of Public Law 115-232.
       Multilateral Export Control Regimes.--The agreement directs 
     BIS to report to the Committees, not later than 180 days 
     after enactment of this act, on a strategy for working with 
     partners and allies on a bilateral or plurilateral basis to 
     secure binding commitments to control technologies of foreign 
     adversaries that could support military modernization or 
     human rights abuses.

[[Page S1399]]

       BIS Efforts Relating to the PRC.--BIS is directed to report 
     to the Committees, no later than 90 days after enactment of 
     this act, on the resources, staffing, and operational 
     capability needed to adequately conduct licensing, review, 
     targeting, and enforcement activities as they relate to 
     entities under the control of the PRC.
       American Manufacturing.--The agreement encourages BIS to 
     continue engagement with Congress on efforts to reinvigorate 
     American manufacturing.
       Export Control Regulatory Compliance Assistance.--In 
     addition to the language in the Senate report under the same 
     heading, the agreement clarifies that BIS shall also work 
     with ITA U.S. Export Assistance Centers as BIS engages with 
     small- and medium-sized exporters to conduct export control 
     outreach and education events that target small- and medium-
     sized exporters.

                  Economic Development Administration

       The agreement includes $468,000,000 for the programs and 
     administrative expenses of the Economic Development 
     Administration (EDA).

                Economic Development Assistance Programs

       The agreement includes $400,000,000 for Economic 
     Development Assistance Programs. Any deviation of funds shall 
     be subject to the procedures set forth in section 505 of this 
     act. Funds are to be distributed as follows:

                ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS
                        (In thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                          Program                               Amount
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Public Works...............................................     $100,000
Partnership Planning.......................................       34,500
Technical Assistance.......................................       14,000
Research and Evaluation....................................        2,000
Trade Adjustment Assistance................................       13,500
Economic Adjustment Assistance.............................       33,000
Assistance to Indigenous Communities.......................        5,000
Assistance to Coal Communities.............................       75,000
Assistance to Biomass Communities..........................        4,500
Regional Innovation Program Grants.........................       50,000
Good Jobs Challenge........................................       25,000
Regional Technology and Innovation Hubs....................       41,000
STEM Apprenticeship Program................................        2,500
                                                            ============
    Total, Economic Development Assistance Programs........     $400,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Economic Assistance for Communities.--The agreement 
     encourages EDA to treat as acceptable, any funding provided 
     by other Federal programs that are explicitly authorized to 
     be used for any required non-Federal share of the cost of a 
     project so that funding from both agencies may be used if 
     necessary and to the extent permitted by law.
       Assistance to Coal Communities.--The agreement provides 
     $75,000,000 for Assistance to Coal Communities. To diversify 
     and enhance economic opportunities within the Appalachian 
     region and within other regions across the country that have 
     been economically impacted by job losses in coal mining, 
     plant operations, and related supply chains, the agreement 
     expects EDA to work creatively to transform historic and 
     transitioning coal communities.
       Regional Innovation Program (RIP).--The agreement provides 
     $50,000,000 for RIP grants. The agreement also urges EDA to 
     invest in university based, high-tech business incubators to 
     diversify distressed manufacturing communities and legacy 
     urban and rural communities by encouraging entrepreneurship 
     and patent creation, and promoting technology 
     commercialization through business startups. The agreement 
     further encourages EDA to support the development of regional 
     innovation clusters that focus on advanced wood products.
       Regional Technology and Innovation Hubs (Tech Hubs).--The 
     agreement provides $41,000,000 for the Tech Hubs program and 
     clarifies that EDA may award planning grants and 
     implementation grants. The agreement encourages EDA to 
     support consortia that have developed proven regional 
     strategies that bridge urban and rural economies to deliver 
     innovative solutions in partnership with rural areas.
       Working Waterfronts.--Working waterfronts have long been an 
     important component of the U.S. economy supporting commercial 
     and recreational activities. Within funding provided, no less 
     than $5,000,000 is for projects to revitalize, expand, and 
     upgrade the physical infrastructure of working waterfronts to 
     attract new industry, encourage business expansion, diversify 
     local economies, and generate or retain long-term private 
     sector jobs and investment.


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement includes $68,000,000 for EDA salaries and 
     expenses.

                  Minority Business Development Agency


                     MINORITY BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

       The agreement includes $68,250,000 for the Minority 
     Business Development Agency (MBDA).
       Business Center and Specialty Project Center Programs.--The 
     agreement adopts the Senate language under the heading 
     ``Native Entities'' and encourages MBDA to coordinate with 
     the Department's Office of Native American Business 
     Development on these efforts.

                   Economic and Statistical Analysis


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement includes $125,000,000 for Economic and 
     Statistical Analysis (ESA).
       Data Transparency.--The agreement provides up to $5,000,000 
     for private data acquisition and directs ESA to use a 
     competitive process when soliciting private sector data.

                          Bureau of the Census

       The agreement includes $1,382,500,000 for the Bureau of the 
     Census (``Census Bureau''). The agreement approves the 
     requested technical adjustments (transfers) in the agency's 
     congressional budget submission.
       Cyber Vulnerabilities.--The agreement directs the Census 
     Bureau to prioritize cyber protections and high standards of 
     data differential privacy, while also maintaining the 
     accuracy of the data. The Census Bureau is expected to keep 
     the Committees updated on these efforts.


                      CURRENT SURVEYS AND PROGRAMS

       The bill provides $328,500,000 for the Current Surveys and 
     Programs account.
       Population Estimate Challenge Program.--The agreement 
     provides up to $6,200,000 to support the Population Estimates 
     program and to improve the annual estimates upon which 
     communities across the country rely.


                     PERIODIC CENSUSES AND PROGRAMS

       The bill provides $1,054,000,000 in direct appropriations 
     for the Periodic Censuses and Programs account.
       Ask U.S. Panel Survey.--The Census Bureau is directed to 
     provide a report to the Committees, not later than 90 days 
     after enactment of this act, on the Ask U.S. Panel Survey's 
     methodology, data collection processes, implementation, 
     incurred and projected costs, procurement strategy, and plans 
     to address any recommendations made by the Department's 
     Office of Inspector General (OIG).

       National Telecommunications and Information Administration


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement includes $57,000,000 for the salaries and 
     expenses of the National Telecommunications and Information 
     Administration (NTIA).
       Advanced Communications Research.--The agreement provides 
     up to the fiscal year 2023 enacted level for Advanced 
     Communications Research.
       Office of Internet Connectivity and Growth.--The agreement 
     provides up to the fiscal year 2023 enacted level for the 
     Office of Internet Connectivity and Growth.
       Rural Broadband Coordination.--The agreement encourages 
     NTIA to equally prioritize the deployment of the Nationwide 
     Public Safety Broadband Network (NPSBN) in rural communities 
     and in urban areas.
       Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program.--The 
     agreement directs NTIA to conduct a cost-benefit analysis of 
     the most efficient and economical means of broadband 
     deployment to connect unserved rural areas and report to the 
     Committees on its findings no later than 180 days after the 
     enactment of this act.


                 FACILITIES MANAGEMENT AND CONSTRUCTION

       The agreement includes $2,000,000 for necessary expenses 
     for the design, construction, alteration, improvement, 
     maintenance, and repair of buildings and facilities managed 
     by NTIA.

               United States Patent and Trademark Office


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)

       The agreement includes language making available to the 
     United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) 
     $4,195,799,000, to be derived from offsetting fee collections 
     estimated for fiscal year 2024 by the Congressional Budget 
     Office.

             National Institute of Standards and Technology

       The agreement includes $1,460,000,000 for the National 
     Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).


             SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNICAL RESEARCH AND SERVICES

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The agreement provides $1,080,000,000 for NIST's Scientific 
     and Technical Research and Services (STRS) account. Unless 
     otherwise specified, the agreement clarifies that all 
     programs identified in the Senate report are funded up to the 
     fiscal year 2023 enacted levels.
       Forensic Sciences.--The agreement provides funding for 
     forensic science research, including up to $3,500,000 to 
     support the Organization of Scientific Area Committees, up to 
     $1,500,000 for a competitive Standards Development 
     Organization grant, and up to $1,500,000 to support technical 
     merit evaluations.
       Digital Twins.--The agreement supports digital twins as a 
     tool for intelligent decision-making in key U.S. industries 
     and encourages NIST to partner with non-governmental 
     organizations and other Federal agencies to create a testbed 
     for development of best practices and interoperability 
     standards for the implementation of digital twins throughout 
     U.S. industry and across the Federal Government.
       Synthetic Biology.--The agreement encourages NIST to 
     sustain and expand its work to develop synthetic biology 
     metrology and standards in alignment with Public Law 117-167. 
     The agreement directs NIST to provide a report to the 
     Committees, no later than 180 days after the enactment of 
     this act, detailing its five-year plan to advance research 
     innovation in synthetic biology and the resources required, 
     including projected and out year costs, as well as staffing 
     to implement this plan.
       Cybersecurity and Privacy Standards.--The agreement 
     supports the following areas up to

[[Page S1400]]

     the fiscal year 2023 enacted level: vulnerability management; 
     cryptography and privacy programs; identity and access 
     management; software security; infrastructure with a 
     particular focus on Domain Name System and Border Gateway 
     Protocol security; improving usability of cybersecurity; the 
     National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education with a 
     particular focus on expanding the office and personnel 
     capacity to support the workforce requirements authorized in 
     Public Law 116-238; and Internet of Things security.
       Critical and Emerging Technologies.--The agreement includes 
     no less than the fiscal year 2023 enacted level to support 
     NIST's standards development work across areas of critical 
     and emerging technology. Within the funds provided, NIST is 
     encouraged to increase support for the four areas outlined in 
     the agency's budget submission: artificial intelligence, 
     quantum information science, biotechnology, and advanced 
     communications research and standards.
       Cybersecurity Education.--In addition to the directive in 
     the Senate report under the heading ``Cybersecurity'' the 
     agreement encourages NIST to support regional alliances and 
     multistakeholder partnerships as detailed in section 303(f) 
     of the Cybersecurity Enhancement Act (Public Law 113-274). 
     The agreement further encourages NIST to support national 
     cybersecurity challenges as authorized in section 205 of the 
     Cybersecurity Enhancement Act.
       Cloud Computing.--The agreement encourages NIST to publish 
     descriptions and definitions of the latest cloud 
     characteristics, service models, deployment models, and 
     multi-cloud. The agreement encourages NIST to include in its 
     description of ``multi-cloud'' the characteristics of 
     software technology that allow for data, application, and 
     program portability. Additionally, the agreement encourages 
     NIST to consider interoperability between multiple cloud 
     computing software vendors and between public, private, and 
     edge cloud environments.
       Research on Age Verification and Age Estimation 
     Technologies.--The agreement directs NIST, as part of its 
     ongoing research and testing under sections 10226 and 10223 
     of Public Law 117-167, to include research and testing of age 
     verification and age estimation technologies, in consultation 
     with the Federal Trade Commission, and in compliance with all 
     applicable laws.
       Cybersecurity.--Consistent with the recommendations adopted 
     in Public Law 117-328, the agreement encourages NIST to 
     provide updates on reducing its Cryptographic Module 
     Validation Program (CMVP) backlog. Additionally, the 
     agreement urges NIST to consider liaising with or detailing 
     qualified cryptographic professionals from other parts of the 
     Federal Government. The current CMVP backlogs pose a 
     potential security risk to Federal Information Processing 
     Standards, which will only increase as emerging quantum 
     computing challenges grow. The agreement encourages NIST to 
     continue its ongoing efforts to streamline the review process 
     and provide updates about planning for new announcements and 
     future requirements.
       Sustainable Mass Timber Construction Materials.--The 
     agreement encourages NIST to continue support for emerging 
     industries, including cross-laminated timber.
       Artificial Intelligence (AI).--The agreement provides no 
     less than the fiscal year 2023 enacted level for NIST's 
     ongoing AI research and measurement science efforts and to 
     execute its responsibilities pursuant to Executive Order 
     14110, ``Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Development and Use of 
     Artificial Intelligence.'' Within the funds provided, up to 
     $10,000,000 is available for the establishment of a U.S. AI 
     Safety Institute.
       Blockchain Research at the National Cybersecurity Center of 
     Excellence (NCCOE).--The agreement encourages the NCCOE to 
     research challenges with blockchain and distributed ledger 
     technologies and to leverage the resources at the NCCOE to 
     explore the advancement of distributed ledger technologies. 
     Further, the agreement encourages the NCCOE to consider these 
     technologies in relation to the competitive position of the 
     United States, to research the ability to foster uniform 
     standards that allow for global collaboration in 
     communications and free trade, and to explore any government 
     use cases with the potential for ancillary adoption by the 
     private sector.
       Addressing Wildfire Risks.--The agreement includes up to 
     the fiscal year 2023 enacted level for Wildfire and the 
     Wildland-Urban Interface-related research and directs NIST to 
     develop improved Wildland-Urban Interface risk exposure 
     metrics and tools to better assess and mitigate the fire 
     vulnerability of structures to protect at-risk communities.
       NIST Center for Neutron Research (NCNR).--The agreement 
     provides up to the requested level for the NCNR for the 
     development and operation of innovative advanced neutron 
     instrumentation and expertise.
       NIST STRS Community Project Funding/NIST External 
     Projects.--The agreement includes $222,841,000 for NIST STRS 
     Community Project Funding/NIST External Projects. The 
     agreement directs NIST to provide the funding for the 
     projects listed in the table titled, ``Community Project 
     Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending'' at the end of 
     this joint explanatory statement in the corresponding 
     amounts. The agreement further directs NIST to perform the 
     same level of oversight and due diligence as with any other 
     external partners.


                     INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY SERVICES

       The agreement includes $212,000,000 for Industrial 
     Technology Services (ITS), including $175,000,000 for the 
     Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP). The 
     agreement also provides $37,000,000 for the Manufacturing USA 
     Program.
       National Manufacturing Extension Partnership Supply Chain 
     Database.--The agreement directs NIST to create a permanent, 
     centralized database so that manufacturers have access to a 
     comprehensive MEP database network, as required by Public Law 
     117-167.
       Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors 
     (CHIPS) Environmental Review Process.--The agreement urges 
     NIST to continue exploring opportunities to expedite the 
     National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) review process to 
     ensure grant funds are expeditiously distributed to qualified 
     projects and semiconductor fabrication plant construction 
     continues without delay. The agreement directs NIST to 
     provide to the Committees, no later than 90 days after the 
     enactment of this act, a report detailing a strategy that 
     identifies potentially applicable NEPA categorical exclusions 
     and streamlined environmental assessment procedures, 
     including an analysis with criteria and funding thresholds, 
     that details how NIST is determining which projects are 
     covered under the definition of ``major federal action,'' as 
     amended by Public Law 118-5.
       CHIPS Awards Supporting the Semiconductor Supply Chain.--
     The agreement encourages NIST to support geographically-
     diverse investments in small- and medium-sized semiconductor 
     companies as it continues advancing CHIPS incentive awards to 
     develop domestic semiconductor manufacturing capability and 
     its corresponding supply chain.
       Reporting on CHIPS Awards Upside Sharing and Funding 
     Milestones.--Within 60 days of the enactment of this act, the 
     agreement directs NIST to provide a briefing on any upside 
     sharing agreements made between NIST and a recipient of CHIPS 
     funds, as detailed in the Department of Commerce's Notice of 
     Funding Opportunity (NOFO) entitled, ``CHIPS Incentives 
     Program--Commercial Fabrication Facilities,'' and in 
     compliance with all applicable laws. Further, the agreement 
     directs NIST to provide quarterly reports to the Committees 
     on any amounts received by the agency through upside sharing 
     agreements, including a detailed description of how NIST 
     plans to use these funds, and directs NIST to include in 
     these reports updates on funds clawed back or withheld from 
     an applicant due to a failure to meet designated milestones 
     highlighted in the NOFO.
       The National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC).--The 
     agreement urges NIST to ensure the establishment of the NSTC 
     is transparent, competitive, and operated by a qualified 
     entity. The agreement directs NIST to consider the importance 
     of geographic diversity in the selection of NSTC facilities 
     and affiliated technical centers.


                  CONSTRUCTION OF RESEARCH FACILITIES

       The agreement provides $168,000,000 for NIST construction, 
     of which $87,758,000 is available for Safety, Capacity, 
     Maintenance, and Major Repairs (SCMMR). The agreement 
     acknowledges an additional $57,400,000 is available through 
     prior year unobligated balances for SCMMR in fiscal year 2024 
     and directs NIST to prioritize addressing the growing backlog 
     of facilities maintenance and improvements, including those 
     highlighted in the budget request.
       NIST Extramural Construction.--The agreement includes 
     $80,242,000 for NIST Extramural Construction and directs NIST 
     to provide the funding for the projects listed in the table 
     titled, ``Community Project Funding/Congressionally Directed 
     Spending'' at the end of this joint explanatory statement in 
     the corresponding amounts. The agreement further directs NIST 
     to perform the same level of oversight and due diligence as 
     with any other external partners.

            National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

       The agreement directs NOAA to incorporate the funding 
     levels established in both the table and the narrative 
     direction when executing its budget for fiscal year 2024.


                  OPERATIONS, RESEARCH, AND FACILITIES

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The agreement includes a total program level of 
     $4,946,007,000 under this account, for NOAA's coastal, 
     fisheries, marine, weather, satellite, and other programs. 
     This total funding level includes $4,548,485,000 in direct 
     appropriations, a transfer of $369,522,000 from balances in 
     the ``Promote and Develop Fishery Products and Research 
     Pertaining to American Fisheries'' fund, and $28,000,000 
     derived from recoveries of prior year obligations. The 
     following narrative descriptions and tables identify the 
     specific activities and funding levels included in this act.
       Fire Weather.--The Senate language on ``Fire Weather'' is 
     adopted. In addition, NOAA is encouraged to utilize and share 
     its satellite imagery and weather forecasts with interested 
     Federal, state, Tribal, and local partners, and land 
     managers, to improve information dissemination related to 
     wildfire events. Real-time data on wildfire smoke levels 
     could improve Federal agencies' ability to develop strategies 
     to mitigate smoke hazards and allow NOAA to issue more 
     accurate and timely wildfire smoke alerts.
       Management and Administrative Costs.--To ensure financial 
     transparency, NOAA is strongly encouraged to limit management 
     and administrative (M&A) and NOAA-wide support service costs 
     charged to programs, projects, and activities (PPAs) to cover

[[Page S1401]]

     shared expenses and administrative staff, with a goal of 
     limiting to 5 percent of annual appropriations. As part of 
     the spending plan, NOAA is directed to include the M&A and 
     NOAA-wide support service amounts charged within each line 
     office as well as the methodologies used to assess costs. 
     Further, as part of the fiscal year 2025 budget request, NOAA 
     is directed to include estimated costs as well as to propose 
     how to consolidate these costs either through existing or new 
     PPAs.
       National Ocean Service (NOS).--$671,502,000 is for NOS 
     Operations, Research, and Facilities.

                         NATIONAL OCEAN SERVICE
                  Operations, Research, and Facilities
                        (In thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                          Program                               Amount
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Navigation, Observations and Positioning:
  Navigation, Observations and Positioning.................     $183,702
  Hydrographic Survey Priorities/ Contracts................       31,500
  IOOS Regional Observations...............................       42,500
Navigation, Observations and Positioning...................      257,702
Coastal Science and Assessment:
  Coastal Science, Assessment, Response and Restoration....       95,500
  Competitive Research.....................................       20,000
Coastal Science and Assessment.............................      115,500
Ocean and Coastal Management and Services:
  Coastal Zone Management and Services.....................       51,000
  Coastal Zone Management Grants...........................       81,500
  National Oceans and Coastal Security Fund................       32,000
  Coral Reef Program.......................................       33,500
  National Estuarine Research Reserve System...............       33,300
  Sanctuaries and Marine Protected Areas...................       67,000
Ocean and Coastal Management and Services..................      298,300
                                                            ============
    Total, National Ocean Service, Operations, Research,        $671,502
     and Facilities........................................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Hydrographic Charting.--The Senate direction regarding 
     ``Hydrographic Charting'' is adopted. Further, NOAA is 
     encouraged to enter into charter agreements for the services 
     of not less than two private sector vessels to supplement its 
     charting and survey efforts to address the growing backlog of 
     unfulfilled missions, particularly those in Arctic waters.
       Marine Debris.--The agreement provides no less than the 
     fiscal year 2023 enacted level for the Marine Debris Program.
       In addition, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act 
     (IIJA) (Public Law 117-58) provides $150,000,000 over five 
     years for marine debris assessment, prevention, mitigation, 
     and removal, including $30,000,000 in fiscal year 2024.
       National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS).--The 
     agreement adopts Senate direction and provides not less than 
     $54,500,000 for NCCOS.
       Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs).--Within funding for 
     Competitive Research, the agreement provides up to 
     $14,000,000 to accelerate deployment of effective methods of 
     intervention and mitigation to reduce the frequency, 
     severity, and impact of HAB events in marine and freshwater 
     systems. Due to concern with duplication, incompatibility, 
     and separation of data related to the causes and effects of 
     HABs, NOAA is directed to submit a report, no later than 180 
     days after the enactment of this act, that includes a survey 
     of all existing large freshwater body HAB-related data. NOAA 
     is encouraged to include recommendations for streamlining 
     access to this data, creating a centralized, all-in-one 
     access point, and cost effective synthesis and hosting of 
     disparate data sets.
       National Harmful Algal Bloom Observing Network.--The 
     agreement provides not less than $3,500,000 for the National 
     Harmful Algal Bloom Observing Network.
       Gulf of Mexico Hypoxic Mapping.--The agreement provides up 
     to $1,500,000 for the annual Gulf of Mexico Hypoxic Zone 
     Mapping Cruise.
       Blue Carbon Research.--The agreement encourages NOAA to use 
     previously appropriated funds to support a pilot program on 
     blue carbon to advance NOAA's work to assess the carbon 
     sequestration potential of various coastal habitats, account 
     for regional differences, and identify some of the 
     biophysical, social, and economic pathways and impediments to 
     coastal blue carbon ecosystem protection, management, or 
     restoration.
       Coral Reef Conservation Act.--The agreement adopts the 
     Senate direction regarding ``Coral Reef Program'' and directs 
     NOAA to report to the Committees not later than 60 days after 
     enactment of this act on the establishment of the Atlantic 
     Reef Research Coordination Institute and the Pacific Reef 
     Research Coordination Institute, as required under section 
     212 of the Reauthorization of the Coral Reef Conservation Act 
     of 2000 (title C of division J of Public Law 117-263).
       NERRS Blue Ribbon Panel.--The agreement acknowledges the 
     National Estuarine Research Reserve System (NERRS) Blue 
     Ribbon Panel recommendations and directs NOAA to report to 
     the Committees, not later than 180 days after the enactment 
     of this act, on the number of research reserves that are 
     unable to meet Federal match requirements.
       National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS).--$1,113,797,000 
     is for NMFS Operations, Research, and Facilities.

                    NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE
                  Operations, Research, and Facilities
                        (In thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                          Program                               Amount
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Protected Resources Science and Management:
  Marine Mammals, Sea Turtles, and Other Species...........     $175,455
  Species Recovery Grants..................................        7,250
  Atlantic Salmon..........................................        8,000
  Pacific Salmon...........................................       75,000
Protected Resources Science and Management.................      265,705
Fisheries Science and Management:
  Fisheries and Ecosystem Science Programs and Services....      161,500
  Fisheries Data Collections, Surveys, and Assessments.....      205,851
  Observers and Training...................................       58,383
  Fisheries Management Programs and Services...............      147,250
  Aquaculture..............................................       24,000
  Salmon Management Activities.............................       65,250
  Regional Councils and Fisheries Commissions..............       44,297
  Interjurisdictional Fisheries Grants.....................        3,377
Fisheries Science and Management...........................      709,908
Enforcement................................................       82,000
Habitat Conservation and Restoration.......................       56,184
                                                            ============
    Total, National Marine Fisheries Service, Operations,     $1,113,797
     Research, and Facilities..............................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Marine Mammal Unusual Mortality Event (UME) Contingency 
     Fund.--Given the high number of active UMEs for marine 
     mammals, NMFS is encouraged to request funding for the Fund 
     as part of the fiscal year 2025 budget request.
       Vessel Strike Reduction Actions.--NMFS issued a proposed 
     rule to amend the North Atlantic right whale (NARW) vessel 
     strike reduction rule in August 2022 (87 FR 46921). 
     Separately, in October 2023, NMFS denied a petition to 
     establish vessel speed measures to protect the Rice's whale 
     in the Gulf of Mexico. As directed in the Senate report, 
     before NOAA issues interim or final rules to protect 
     endangered whales, the agency shall engage with affected 
     stakeholders and incorporate relevant comments, including the 
     U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Maritime Administration, as 
     appropriate, consistent with requirements under the 
     Administrative Procedure Act (Public Law 79-404).
       In addition, NOAA is encouraged to use previously 
     appropriated funds to support a near real-time monitoring and 
     mitigation pilot program for NARWs as authorized under 
     section 11303 of the James M. lnhofe National Defense 
     Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public Law 117-263). 
     NOAA is further encouraged to work with other Federal 
     agencies, including the Office of Naval Research, the U.S. 
     Coast Guard, and the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, as 
     well as industry and academia, to support technology 
     development, test and evaluation of whale monitoring 
     technologies through the National Oceanographic Partnership 
     Program. NOAA is encouraged to include funding for a pilot 
     program and a research and development initiative as part of 
     the fiscal year 2025 budget request.
       Fishery Survey Contingency Fund.--The Senate language 
     regarding ``Fishery Survey Contingency Fund'' is adopted, and 
     the agreement provides $1,000,000 for this purpose.
       Recreational Fishery Data.--The Senate language regarding 
     ``Data Collection for Recreational Fisheries'' is adopted, 
     and the agreement directs NOAA to provide updates on the 
     agency's efforts to improve fishery data and modernize stock 
     assessments as part of NMFS quarterly briefings.
       South Atlantic Reef Fish.--The Senate language regarding 
     ``South Atlantic Reef Fish'' is adopted, and the agreement 
     further directs NMFS to prioritize the incorporation of data 
     from the South Atlantic Great Red Snapper Count into the 
     agency's stock assessment expeditiously to better inform 
     fishery management decisions. NOAA shall provide the 
     Committees with a progress update no later than 90 days after 
     enactment of this act.
       State Management for Recreational Red Snapper.--In lieu of 
     the Senate language regarding ``State Management for 
     Recreational Red Snapper'', the agreement supports the full 
     integration of the Great Red Snapper Count data and Gulf 
     States catch data into stock assessment and directs NMFS to 
     continue to work with the Gulf States to ensure successful 
     implementation of state management for red snapper.
       Gulf of Mexico Fisheries Research.--The Senate language on 
     ``Gulf of Mexico Fisheries Research'' is amended to include 
     not less than $5,000,000 for fishery-independent grants to 
     academic partners.
       Infrastructure to Support Sustainable Fisheries.--The 
     Senate language on ``North Atlantic Right Whales'' is 
     clarified to provide $36,000,000 to states through the 
     Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, of which, given 
     the impacts of coastal erosion and increasing frequency and 
     severity of coastal storms, $10,000,000 shall be provided 
     through Fisheries Management Programs and Services to be used 
     to repair and renovate infrastructure to support more 
     sustainable fisheries.
       Seafood Import Monitoring Program (SIMP).--The agreement 
     provides not less than the fiscal year 2023 enacted level for 
     SIMP.
       Habitat Conservation and Restoration.--The agreement 
     provides $1,500,000 for management, intervention, and 
     mitigation of invasive European green crab. The Senate report 
     language on ``Northwest Straits Initiative'' is also adopted.
       Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (OAR).--
     $656,053,000 is for OAR Operations, Research, and Facilities.

               OFFICE OF OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC RESEARCH
                  Operations, Research, and Facilities
                        (In thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                          Program                               Amount
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Climate Research:
  Climate Laboratories and Cooperative Institutes..........     $104,102
  Regional Climate Data and Information....................       47,932
  Climate Competitive Research.............................       72,116
Climate Research...........................................      224,150
Weather and Air Chemistry Research:
  Weather Laboratories and Cooperative Institutes..........       90,156
  U.S. Weather Research Program............................       39,100
  Tornado Severe Storm Research/Phased Array Radar.........       20,916
  Joint Technology Transfer Initiative.....................       12,000
Weather and Air Chemistry Research.........................      162,172
Ocean, Coastal, and Great Lakes Research:
  Ocean Laboratories and Cooperative Institutes............       39,500
  National Sea Grant College Program.......................       80,000

[[Page S1402]]

 
  Sea Grant Aquaculture Research...........................       14,000
  Ocean Exploration and Research...........................       46,000
  Integrated Ocean Acidification...........................       17,000
  Sustained Ocean Observations and Monitoring..............       52,500
  National Oceanographic Partnership Program...............        2,500
Ocean, Coastal, and Great Lakes Research...................      251,500
Innovative Research and Technology:
  High Performance Computing Initiatives...................       18,231
Innovative Research and Technology.........................       18,231
                                                            ============
    Total, Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research,          $656,053
     Operations, Research, and Facilities..................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       VORTEX-USA.--The agreement provides $11,000,000 for the 
     Verification of the Origins of Rotation in Tornadoes 
     Experiment (VORTEX)-USA, including no less than $10,500,000 
     for VORTEX-Southeast.
       Genomics.--The Senate language regarding ``Genomics'' is 
     adopted, and the agreement provides not less than the fiscal 
     year 2023 enacted level to support ongoing initiatives, 
     including for extramural grants, to explore the deep oceans, 
     collect large numbers of biological samples, and to sequence 
     their genomes to advance pharmaceutical discovery.
       American Lobster Research.--The Senate language on 
     ``American Lobster Research'' is clarified to note that 
     research and extension activities should focus on stock, 
     fishery, and socioeconomic resilience in the face of 
     environmental and management changes, with the purpose of 
     informing stock assessment and future management actions.
       National Weather Service (NWS).--$1,247,393,000 is for NWS 
     Operations, Research, and Facilities.

                        NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE
                  Operations, Research, and Facilities
                        (In thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                          Program                               Amount
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Observations...............................................     $251,462
Central Processing.........................................      110,500
Analyze, Forecast and Support..............................      589,500
Dissemination..............................................      116,979
Science and Technology Integration.........................      178,952
                                                            ============
    Total, National Weather Service, Operations, Research,    $1,247,393
     and Facilities........................................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       National Mesonet Program.--The agreement adopts Senate 
     language on the ``National Mesonet Program'' and provides not 
     less than the fiscal year 2023 enacted level and up to 
     $30,000,000 for the continuation and expansion of the 
     Program.
       Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Services.--The proposed 
     elimination of the Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Services 
     System expansion is not accepted.
       Hydrology and Water Resource Programs.--The agreement 
     provides not less than the fiscal year 2023 enacted level for 
     NOAA to support the Cooperative Institute for Research to 
     Operations in Hydrology (CIROH), including for the Water in 
     the West Initiative.
       Weather Gaps.--The agreement acknowledges the precarious 
     state of the Colorado River and the Great Salt Lake and 
     encourages NOAA to request funding to fill gaps in addressing 
     severe weather and spring run-off issues in the western 
     United States.
       Data Assimilation.--The Senate report language on ``Data 
     Assimilation'' is clarified to provide no less than the 
     fiscal year 2023 enacted level to support the Joint Effort 
     for Data Assimilation Integration at the Joint Center for 
     Satellite Data Assimilation.
       National Environmental Satellite, Data and Information 
     Service (NESDIS).--$380,765,000 is for NESDIS Operations, 
     Research, and Facilities.

     NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL SATELLITE, DATA AND INFORMATION SERVICE
                  Operations, Research, and Facilities
                        (In thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                          Program                               Amount
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Environmental Satellite Observing Systems:
  Office of Satellite and Product Operations...............     $250,165
  Product Development, Readiness and Application...........       59,850
  U.S. Group on Earth Observations.........................          750
Environmental Satellite Observing Systems..................      310,765
National Centers for Environmental Information.............       70,000
                                                            ============
    Total, National Environmental Satellite, Data and           $380,765
     Information Service, Operations, Research, and
     Facilities............................................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       NESDIS Regional Support.--The agreement encourages NESDIS 
     to consider deploying more of its subject matter expertise 
     regionally to demonstrate new uses of satellite data and 
     integrated information systems. NESDIS should educate and 
     partner with scientists and users in local communities who 
     can use and expand the applications of the data and learn 
     from those community users in the process.
       National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI).--The 
     Senate language on NCEI is adopted, and NOAA is encouraged to 
     fully support critical international partnerships, including 
     the Global Climate Observing System.
       Mission Support.--$407,321,000 is for Mission Support 
     Operations, Research, and Facilities.

                             MISSION SUPPORT
                  Operations, Research, and Facilities
                        (In thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                          Program                               Amount
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mission Support Services:
  Executive Leadership.....................................      $31,743
  Mission Services and Management..........................      181,436
  IT Security..............................................       16,393
  Payment to the DOC Working Capital Fund..................       71,299
  Facilities Maintenance...................................        6,000
  Office of Space Commerce.................................       65,000
Mission Support Services...................................      371,871
Office of Education:
  BWET Regional Programs...................................        8,700
  Jose E. Serrano Educational Partnership Program with            20,750
   Minority Serving Institutions...........................
  NOAA Education Program Base..............................        6,000
Office of Education........................................       35,450
                                                            ============
    Total, Mission Support, Operations, Research, and           $407,321
     Facilities............................................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Office of Marine and Aviation Operations (OMAO).--
     $329,677,000 is for OMAO Operations, Research, and 
     Facilities.

                OFFICE OF MARINE AND AVIATION OPERATIONS
                  Operations, Research, and Facilities
                        (In thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                          Program                               Amount
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Marine Operations and Maintenance..........................     $204,000
Aviation Operations and Aircraft Services..................       40,500
Autonomous Uncrewed Technology Operations..................       21,677
NOAA Commissioned Officer Corps............................       63,500
                                                            ============
    Total, Office of Marine and Aviation Operations........      329,677
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Autonomous and Uncrewed Technology Operations.--The 
     agreement provides no less than the fiscal year 2023 enacted 
     level and up to $12,500,000 for agency-wide data acquisition 
     from commercial uncrewed maritime systems in support of 
     relevant operational missions.
       NOAA Community Project Funding/NOAA Special Projects.--The 
     agreement directs NOAA to provide funding for the projects 
     listed in the table titled ``Community Project Funding/
     Congressionally Directed Spending'' at the end of this joint 
     explanatory statement in the corresponding amounts, 
     consistent with NOAA's existing authorities, jurisdictions, 
     and procedures, as appropriate. NOAA shall perform the same 
     level of oversight and due diligence regarding these projects 
     as with any other external partners.


               PROCUREMENT, ACQUISITION AND CONSTRUCTION

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The agreement includes a total program level of 
     $1,776,866,000 in direct obligations for NOAA Procurement, 
     Acquisition and Construction (PAC). The following narrative 
     and table identify the specific activities and funding levels 
     included in this act.

               PROCUREMENT, ACQUISITION, AND CONSTRUCTION
                        (In thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                          Program                               Amount
------------------------------------------------------------------------
National Ocean Service:
  National Estuarine Research Reserve Construction.........       $8,500
  Marine Sanctuaries Construction..........................        4,000
                                                            ------------
Total, NOS-PAC.............................................       12,500
                                                            ============
Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research:
  Research Supercomputing/CCRI.............................       50,000
  Research Acquisitions and Management.....................       20,000
                                                            ------------
Total, OAR-PAC.............................................       70,000
                                                            ============
National Weather Service:
  Observations.............................................       16,200
  Central Processing.......................................       68,000
  Dissemination............................................       10,000
  Facilities Construction and Major Repairs................       10,000
                                                            ------------
Total, NWS-PAC.............................................      104,200
                                                            ============
National Environmental Satellite, Data and Information
 Service:
  Geostationary Systems-R (GOES-R).........................      276,000
  Polar Weather Satellites.................................      342,410
  Space Weather Follow On..................................       97,200
  Low Earth Orbit (LEO)....................................       78,500
  Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO)..........................      285,000
  Systems/Services Architecture and Engineering (SAE)......       69,000
  Space Weather Next.......................................      151,606
  Common Ground Services...................................      114,000
  Satellite CDA Facility...................................        2,450
                                                            ------------
Total, NESDIS-PAC..........................................    1,416,166
                                                            ============
Mission Support:
  NOAA Construction........................................       64,000
                                                            ------------
Total, MS-PAC..............................................       64,000
                                                            ============
Office of Marine and Aviation Operations:
  Fleet Capital Improvements and Technology Infusion.......       28,000
  Vessel Recapitalization and Construction.................       75,000
  Aircraft Recapitalization and Construction...............        7,000
Total, OMAO-PAC............................................      110,000
                                                            ------------
    Total, Procurement, Acquisition and Construction.......    1,776,866
                                                            ============
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Geostationary Extended Observations (GeoXO).--NOAA is 
     directed to focus the delivery of the next-generation 
     geostationary satellite fleet, known as GeoXO, on improved 
     data for its weather forecasting missions, and to leverage 
     private sector advancements and innovative solutions to the 
     greatest extent possible. NOAA is encouraged to continue 
     partnering with NASA on the Geostationary Littoral Imaging 
     and Monitoring Radiometer (GLIMR) mission to de-risk the 
     ocean color instrument, as appropriate, for the GeoXO 
     program.
       Systems/Services Architecture and Engineering.--The 
     agreement provides $500,000 above the fiscal year 2023 
     enacted level for the commercial data purchase and commercial 
     weather data pilot programs, which is to be divided between 
     the two programs as deemed appropriate. NOAA is encouraged to 
     evaluate commercial capabilities for hyperspectral microwave 
     sounder data through the commercial weather data pilot 
     program.
       Vessel Recapitalization and Construction.--The Senate 
     language on ``Vessel Recapitalization and Construction'' is 
     clarified to direct NOAA to design the Class C vessels to 
     meet primary mission requirements for fishery surveys and 
     avoid additional requirements that add to complexity and cost 
     of the vessels. NOAA is encouraged to work with the regional 
     fishery commissions to conduct an independent analysis to 
     assess other fishery survey architectures that can improve

[[Page S1403]]

     the reliability and resiliency of data acquisition via 
     partnerships with industry, academia, and states.
       Aircraft Recapitalization.--In lieu of the funding level in 
     the Senate report for the replacement of the WP-3D Hurricane 
     Hunter aircraft, the agreement supports NOAA's acquisition of 
     two green aircraft to replace the existing WP-3D Hurricane 
     Hunter aircraft and expects the fiscal year 2025 budget 
     request to include sufficient funding for the modification 
     and instrumentation of those green aircraft.


                    PACIFIC COASTAL SALMON RECOVERY

       The agreement includes $65,000,000 for the Pacific Coastal 
     Salmon Recovery Fund (PCSRF) and directs that funds will be 
     available to Tribes without a matching requirement. NOAA is 
     directed to report on how its current priorities meet the 
     intent of the PCSRF to support the recovery and protection of 
     all declining salmon stocks.


                     FISHERIES DISASTER ASSISTANCE

       The agreement provides $300,000 for Fisheries Disaster 
     Assistance.


                      FISHERMEN'S CONTINGENCY FUND

       The agreement includes $349,000 for the Fishermen's 
     Contingency Fund.


                   FISHERIES FINANCE PROGRAM ACCOUNT

       The agreement includes language under this heading limiting 
     obligations of direct loans to $24,000,000 for Individual 
     Fishing Quota loans and $150,000,000 for traditional direct 
     loans.


                     RECREATIONAL QUOTA ENTITY FUND

       The agreement allows for the establishment of a halibut 
     recreational quota entity as authorized under section 106 of 
     the Driftnet Modernization and Bycatch Reduction Act (title I 
     of division S of Public Law 117-328).

                        Departmental Management


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement includes $94,500,000 for Departmental 
     Management salaries and expenses.
       United States-Ukraine Infrastructure Task Force.--The 
     agreement encourages the Department, in coordination with the 
     Departments of Transportation and State, to submit an update 
     to the Committees on the status of the potential U.S.-Ukraine 
     Infrastructure Task Force, specifically detailing: (1) 
     activities the U.S.-Ukraine Infrastructure Task Force is 
     considering to address Ukraine's immediate and long-term 
     infrastructure and reconstruction needs, including the 
     identification of any gaps or needs for infrastructure 
     projects and associated investment estimates, 27 with a focus 
     on Ukraine's transportation infrastructure; (2) analysis of 
     how U.S. private sector infrastructure stakeholders can be 
     further leveraged, including consideration of possible 
     private sector development initiatives; and (3) any barriers 
     preventing the Department from working with relevant agencies 
     on these tasks.
       National Strategy to Combat Antisemitism.--The agreement 
     directs the Secretary to continue supporting the National 
     Strategy to Combat Antisemitism released on May 25, 2023.

                      RENOVATION AND MODERNIZATION

       The agreement includes a total of $1,142,000 for the 
     Renovation and Modernization account.

                      OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL

       The agreement includes a total of $48,000,000 for the 
     Office of Inspector General (OIG).

               GENERAL PROVISIONS--DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE


                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The agreement includes the following general provisions for 
     the Department of Commerce:
       Section 101 makes funds available for advanced payments 
     only upon certification of officials, designated by the 
     Secretary, that such payments are considered to be in the 
     public interest.
       Section 102 makes appropriations for Department of Commerce 
     salaries and expenses available for hire of passenger motor 
     vehicles, for services, and for uniforms and allowances as 
     authorized by law.
       Section 103 provides the authority to transfer funds 
     between Department of Commerce appropriation accounts and 
     requires 15 days advance notification to the Committees on 
     Appropriations for certain actions.
       Section 104 provides congressional notification 
     requirements for NOAA satellite programs and includes life 
     cycle cost estimates for certain weather satellite programs.
       Section 105 provides for reimbursement for services within 
     Department of Commerce buildings.
       Section 106 clarifies that grant recipients under the 
     Department of Commerce may deter child pornography, copyright 
     infringement, or any other unlawful activity over their 
     networks.
       Section 107 provides the NOAA Administrator with the 
     authority to avail NOAA of resources, with the consent of 
     those supplying the resources, to carry out responsibilities 
     of any statute administered by NOAA.
       Section 108 prohibits the National Technical Information 
     Service from charging for certain services.
       Section 109 allows NOAA to be reimbursed by Federal and 
     non-Federal entities for performing certain activities.
       Section 110 provides the Economics and Statistics 
     Administration certain authority to enter into cooperative 
     agreements.
       Section 111 allows the Secretary of Commerce to waive up to 
     50 percent of the cost sharing requirements for funds 
     provided in this act under section 315 of the Coastal Zone 
     Management Act of 1972.
       Section 112 sets limitations on the Department's ability to 
     obligate unobligated balances of expired discretionary funds 
     transferred to the Nonrecurring Expenses Fund.
       Section 113 allows for the establishment of Cooperative 
     Aviation Centers to aid in the recruitment of aviators for 
     the NOAA Commissioned Officer Corps.
       Section 114 allows for the modification of the Ketchikan 
     port facility.
       Section 115 allows the NOAA Administrator to establish an 
     alternative or fixed rate for relocation allowance, including 
     permanent change of station allowance.

                                TITLE II

                         DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

           Justice Operations, Management, and Accountability


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement includes $142,000,000 for Justice Operations, 
     Management, and Accountability.
       For fiscal year 2024, the agreement adopts the language in 
     the joint explanatory statement accompanying Public Law 117-
     103 on ``Office of Legal Counsel (OLC) Opinions.'' In lieu of 
     language in the Senate report directing that funding for 
     programs, projects, and activities, across all Department of 
     Justice (DOJ) appropriations accounts, is provided at no less 
     than the fiscal year 2023 enacted levels, the agreement 
     directs the Department to prioritize such programs, projects, 
     and activities to the extent practicable.
       Protecting Children from Online Predators.--The agreement 
     directs the Department to report to the Committees, within 
     120 days of the enactment of this act, its recommendations 
     for a coordinated approach between the Department, other 
     government entities, technology companies, and victim 
     services providers to address the rising prevalence of the 
     production and distribution of online child sexual abuse 
     materials (CSAM). Additionally, the agreement encourages the 
     Department to include in the report recommendations on 
     victim-centered policing strategies, a general assessment of 
     the resource needs of the Department and its State, local, 
     and Tribal law enforcement partner agencies to identify and 
     rescue victims of CSAM, and recommendations for other 
     strategies and best practices.
       Combating Domestic Terrorism.--In lieu of Senate report 
     language under this same heading, the agreement directs the 
     Department to brief the Committees, within 90 days of the 
     enactment of this act, on the Department's assessment and 
     analysis, as previously directed in Senate Report 116-127, 
     under ``Combating Domestic Terrorism,'' and adopted by Public 
     Law 116-93.
       Human Rights Crimes.--The agreement directs the Criminal 
     Division (CRM) and the U.S. Attorneys Offices (USAO) to 
     increase efforts to investigate and prosecute human rights 
     violations, including genocide, torture, use or recruitment 
     of child soldiers, war crimes, and other crimes committed by 
     human rights violators, particularly to support the newly-
     established War Crimes Accountability Team's efforts to 
     respond to war crimes and other atrocities committed during 
     Russia's invasion of Ukraine, efforts to investigate and 
     prosecute war crimes committed during Hamas' October 7, 2023, 
     attack on Israel, and the added responsibilities of CRM to 
     prosecute war criminals under the Justice for Victims of War 
     Crimes Act (Public Law 117-351). For this purpose, the 
     agreement supports continued funding for CRM and USAO to 
     investigate and prosecute these cases.
       The agreement directs the Department to report to the 
     Committees, within 120 days of enactment of this act, on all 
     investigations and prosecutions of human rights offenses and 
     other offenses committed by serious human rights violators 
     within each of the last five fiscal years, including the 
     efforts of CRM and USAO to increase the number of 
     prosecutions. The report should also include any 
     organizational or legal impediments to investigating and 
     prosecuting more human rights violators.
       Combating Violent Crime in Indian Country.--The agreement 
     encourages the USAO to prioritize efforts to investigate and 
     prosecute violent crimes within their jurisdiction against 
     Native Americans and Alaska Natives that occur in Indian 
     Country, to maintain communication with victims and family 
     members about the status of ongoing investigations and cases, 
     and to provide as much information as possible on any 
     declinations. The agreement encourages DOJ and the Federal 
     Bureau of Investigation (FBI), in consultation with the 
     Bureau of Indian Affairs and state, local, and Tribal law 
     enforcement agencies, to notify the Committees of necessary 
     resources and cost estimates, including additional FBI 
     agents, to investigate, respond to, and prevent crimes in 
     Indian Country. The agreement further encourages the FBI to 
     increase recruitment, retention, and placement efforts in 
     order to fill existing positions in areas with large land-
     based Tribes or with high instances of missing and murdered 
     Indigenous persons cases.
       Emmett Till Unsolved Civil Rights Crimes Act.--The 
     agreement directs that the Department provide up to 
     $14,500,000 for Emmett

[[Page S1404]]

     Till Act activities, including up to $10,000,000 for the FBI 
     and the Civil Rights Division's Cold Case Initiative; up to 
     $1,500,000 for the Community Relations Service to partner 
     with law enforcement agencies and communities to help resolve 
     conflicts resulting from the investigation of unsolved civil 
     rights era cases; and $3,000,000 for grants to State and 
     local law enforcement agencies for the use of modem DNA and 
     forensic tools to aid civil rights era cold case 
     investigations.
       McGirt v. Oklahoma.--The agreement directs the Department 
     to ensure all McGirt-related needs are met, and further 
     directs the Department to allocate no less than the fiscal 
     year 2023 enacted levels for McGirt-related activities, by 
     component. The Department is directed to keep the Committees 
     apprised of any additional resources or needs relating to 
     McGirt, and, within 90 days of enactment of this act, the 
     Department shall update and submit the report required under 
     this heading in the joint explanatory statement accompanying 
     Public Law 117-328.
       Voting Rights and Election Administrator Threats.--The 
     agreement encourages the Department to devote appropriate 
     resources to investigate credible threats made against 
     individuals associated with the electoral process, such as 
     election administrators, and encourages the Department to 
     make all policies and procedures related to the rights and 
     protections offered to such individuals publicly available on 
     its website. The agreement further encourages the Attorney 
     General to provide appropriate resources to ensure voting 
     rights are protected, pursuant to the U.S. Constitution, 
     Federal law, and proper adherence to the precedents of the 
     U.S. Supreme Court.
       Analysis of Digital Evidence.--The agreement adopts the 
     directive under this heading in the Senate report, and 
     further directs the Department to brief the Committees, no 
     later than 90 days after the enactment of this act, regarding 
     the use of evidence from digital devices in the course of its 
     investigations.
       Illegal Gambling.--In addition to the directive in the 
     Senate report under this same heading, the Department is 
     encouraged to pursue cases against illegal online sportsbooks 
     and casinos, as appropriate.
       Update on Required Agency Research.--Consistent with the 
     directive contained under this heading in House Report 117-
     395, as adopted by Public Law 117-328, the agreement directs 
     the Department to update the Committees on the progress 
     toward expanded researcher access to samples and strains of 
     marijuana for scientific research on marijuana-impaired 
     driving. The agreement expects the Department to provide the 
     briefing to the Committees, no later than 60 days after the 
     enactment of this act, and in advance of the publication of 
     the report, and recommendations required by Public Law 117-
     58.
       Third Party Settlements.--The agreement directs the 
     Department to report to the Committees, no later than 30 days 
     after the end of fiscal year 2024, on each settlement 
     negotiated or concluded by the Department during fiscal year 
     2024 that includes terms requiring the defendant to donate or 
     contribute funds to an organization or individual.
       Felony Convictions.--The agreement directs the Department 
     to provide a briefing to the Committees, no later than 180 
     days after the enactment of this act, on the number of 
     Department employees who have been convicted of a felony 
     since January 1, 2017, and of that number, how many remain 
     employed and how many have been terminated by the Department.
       Federal Law Enforcement Operations in the U.S. Caribbean.--
     The agreement acknowledges the elevated homicide rates in 
     Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the link of such 
     crimes to illegal narcotics trafficking in the region. The 
     agreement expects the Department and the Organized Crime Drug 
     Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) to continue prioritizing 
     resources and joint operations to dismantle and prosecute 
     drug trafficking and money laundering organizations in the 
     region, including through the Caribbean Corridor Strike 
     Force.
       Blockchain Analysis Tools.--In an effort to reduce crimes 
     involving the illicit use of cryptocurrency, the agreement 
     encourages the Department to acquire blockchain analysis 
     tools, attributed blockchain data, training on 
     cryptocurrency-related investigations, and cryptocurrency-
     related investigative and analytical support. The agreement 
     directs the Department, including the FBI, the United States 
     Marshals Services, and the Asset Forfeiture Program, to 
     provide a briefing on its cryptocurrency-related activities 
     within 90 days of the enactment of this act.
       Department of Justice Recusal Policies.--The agreement 
     directs the Department to continue implementing the policies 
     and procedures specified under this heading in the joint 
     explanatory statement accompanying Public Law 117-328. The 
     Department is further directed to continue to submit, no 
     later than 60 days after the enactment of this act, the 
     annual report as specified under this heading in the joint 
     explanatory statement accompanying Public Law 117-103. The 
     agreement clarifies that these policies and procedures are to 
     pertain to attorney recusals, formal or informal, predicated 
     on statutory, regulatory, and professional responsibility 
     requirements, conflicting financial interests, or concerns 
     related to impartiality or the appearance of impartiality.
       Office of Inspector General (OIG) Referrals.--The agreement 
     adopts the language in the joint explanatory statement 
     accompanying Public Law 117-103 under the same heading. In 
     addition, the Department is directed to review the data 
     provided by OIG under section 405(b)(17) of title 5, United 
     States Code. OIG is directed, in its transmission of the 
     semiannual report under section 405(c) of title 5, United 
     States Code, to provide a statistical table showing the 
     number of OIG referrals that were declined for prosecution, 
     including, if practicable, an explanation of why cases were 
     declined for prosecution.
       Countering Antisemitism.--The Department is directed to 
     report, within 60 days of the enactment of this act, its 
     plans to implement the National Strategy to Counter 
     Antisemitism released May 25, 2023.
       Department of Justice Firearms and Ammunition.--The 
     agreement directs the Government Accountability Office to 
     update its 2018 report ``Purchases and Inventory Controls of 
     Firearms, Ammunition, and Tactical Equipment'' (GA0-19-175), 
     as it pertains to the Department.
       Savanna's Act.--The agreement directs the Department to 
     provide recommendations on how data collection on missing or 
     murdered Indigenous people can be improved, consistent with 
     Savanna's Act (Public Law 116-165), and, within 90 days of 
     enactment of this act, directs the Department to brief the 
     Committees on its progress in implementing this legislation.
       State Regulatory Frameworks.--The agreement urges the 
     Department, in coordination with the Department of the 
     Treasury, Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, and other 
     agencies which may have relevant regulatory expertise, to 
     coordinate an assessment of the adequacy of State marijuana 
     regulatory frameworks, including commonalities and novel 
     approaches to enforcement and oversight.
       Illegal Vaping Products from the People's Republic of 
     China.--The agreement directs the Department, in coordination 
     with U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Food and Drug 
     Administration, and other relevant agencies, to submit a 
     report, within 180 days of the enactment of this act, on 
     enforcement actions taken to halt, reduce, and prevent 
     illegal electronic nicotine delivery system (ENDS) products 
     from entering the stream of commerce within the United 
     States. The report shall assess: (1) all civil or criminal 
     actions filed in Federal court; (2) the volume of ENDS 
     products seized at ports of entry; and (3) civil monetary 
     penalties imposed.
       Wildlife Trafficking.--In lieu of the Senate report 
     language, the agreement encourages the Attorney General to 
     continue submitting an annual report on the specific steps 
     the Department is taking to further address wildlife 
     trafficking and the illegal natural resources trade. The 
     agreement further encourages the Department to continue to 
     provide dedicated resources for investigating and prosecuting 
     wildlife trafficking crimes.
       Recorded Law Enforcement Interviews.--The agreement directs 
     the Department to submit a report to the Committees, within 
     90 days of the enactment of this act, on the feasibility of 
     implementing procedures and protocols for conducting recorded 
     interviews using electronic audio and video recording 
     equipment of a target, subject, witness, or victim in 
     connection with an investigation of a Federal offense, or an 
     investigation in which a Department component is assisting a 
     state, local or Tribal law enforcement agency. The report 
     shall be specific to each of the Department's Federal law 
     enforcement components in terms of types of investigations, 
     interviewee notifications and consent requirements, and 
     exceptions required for those investigations, including when 
     audio- or video-recorded interviews are not practicable, 
     would interfere with the conduct of the investigation, or 
     would compromise the life or safety of the interviewee. 
     Finally, the agreement directs the Department to include in 
     the report cost estimates and timelines associated with 
     implementation, including equipment and data storage.
       DOJ Grants Oversight.--The agreement directs the Department 
     to provide, in the fiscal year 2024 spend plan submitted 
     pursuant to section 528 of this act, a clear explanation of 
     how each solicitation for funds reserved under section 
     506(b)(1) of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act 
     of 1968 (34 U.S.C. 10157) satisfies the requirement that such 
     funds be used ``to combat, address, or otherwise respond to 
     precipitous or extraordinary increases in crime, or in a type 
     or types of crime.''
       District of Columbia Resources.--The agreement directs the 
     Department to submit to the Committees, within 90 days of 
     enactment of this act, a report on the Department's 
     investments in addressing increased crime in the District of 
     Columbia, as announced by the Department in January 2024. The 
     report should include data over the last five fiscal years 
     regarding prosecution rates for the offenses of homicide, 
     rape, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, larceny, motor 
     vehicle theft, carjackings, and arson in the District of 
     Columbia.


                 JUSTICE INFORMATION SHARING TECHNOLOGY

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The agreement includes $30,000,000 for Justice Information 
     Sharing Technology.

                Executive Office For Immigration Review


                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The agreement includes $844,000,000 for the Executive 
     Office for Immigration Review (EOIR), of which $4,000,000 is 
     derived by a transfer from the U.S. Citizenship and 
     Immigration Services Immigration Examinations Fee Account.

[[Page S1405]]

       Disposition of EOIR Adjudications.--The agreement adopts 
     the directive in the Senate report under this heading. In 
     addition, the agreement directs EOIR to report to the 
     Committees, monthly throughout fiscal year 2024, the number 
     of cases, disaggregated by category, that have been 
     terminated, administratively closed, or dismissed.
       Immigration Judge Training.--EOIR is directed to follow the 
     directive in the joint explanatory statement accompanying 
     Public Law 117-103 under this heading. In addition, the 
     agreement directs EOIR to ensure consistency in its training 
     for all current and new immigration judges (IJs).
       Immigration Judge Hiring.--EOIR is directed to follow the 
     directive in the joint explanatory statement accompanying 
     Public Law 117-103 under this heading. In addition, the 
     agreement directs EOIR to report the number of IJs who did 
     not hear cases during the preceding month.
       Immigration Case Backlog.--In addition to the directives 
     under ``Case Backlog and Reporting Requirements'' in the 
     Senate report, the agreement directs EOIR to report to the 
     Committees where and when the hiring procedures referred to 
     in the directive have been posted. The agreement further 
     directs EOIR to provide, no later than 120 days after the 
     enactment of this act, and monthly thereafter throughout 
     fiscal year 2024, all data from the IJ performance dashboard 
     from fiscal years 2020 through 2024. The agreement also notes 
     that EOIR's backlog of cases delays due process and justice--
     in many cases, for years--for those who have a valid claim to 
     immigration benefits. Given the impact of the current backlog 
     of over 2,300,000 cases on EOIR's workforce, the agreement 
     directs EOIR to implement a performance appraisal program for 
     IJs, Assistant Chief IJs, and Appellate IJs, consistent with 
     recommendations made by the Government Accountability Office 
     (GAO-23-105431) with respect to workforce planning and 
     management best practices and OPM guidance. EOIR shall submit 
     a report to the Committees on the results of the performance 
     appraisal program and any modifications made following the 
     evaluation. Additionally, to assist with the backlog 
     reduction effort, the agreement directs EOIR to utilize 
     Assistant Chief IJs in the same capacity as IJs for the 
     purposes of maintaining a docket for master and individual 
     hearing cases, and further directs the Attorney General to 
     ensure that IJs hired in fiscal year 2024 will adjudicate 
     cases as their primary function.
       EOIR Personnel Practices.--The agreement directs EOIR to 
     provide the Committees a report, no later than 90 days after 
     enactment of this act, on the practices related to the hiring 
     and terminations of IJs.
       Legal Orientation Program (LOP).--In lieu of the Senate 
     language under the same heading, the agreement provides no 
     less than $28,000,000 for services provided by LOP. The 
     agreement requests an evaluation of the resources necessary 
     to provide LOP services at additional sites and notes the 
     particular need for legal services at more remote immigration 
     detention sites that are far from legal service providers in 
     urban centers. The agreement directs the Department to 
     utilize all appropriated funds solely for legitimate program 
     purposes.
       Videoteleconferencing (VTC).--The agreement adopts the 
     Senate language under the same heading but does not adopt the 
     recommendation that EOIR work in conjunction with a 
     stakeholder working group in its creation of uniform 
     standards for VTC procedures.
       GAO Update on VTC Data.--In lieu of the Senate language 
     under the heading ``VTC Data and Reporting'', the agreement 
     directs the Government Accountability Office to update the 
     VTC portion of its 2017 report ``Immigration Courts: Actions 
     Needed to Reduce Case Backlog and Address Long-Standing 
     Management and Operational Challenges'' (GAO-17-438).
       Unified Immigration Portal (UIP).--The agreement 
     acknowledges ongoing investments by the Department of 
     Homeland Security (DHS) in technology and data integration, 
     including UIP data sharing. Such investments improve the 
     business process between DHS and EOIR through operational 
     efficiencies, potential cost and time savings in court 
     scheduling, and the elimination of mismatched data. The 
     agreement directs EOIR to provide a status update on its UIP-
     related efforts no later than 60 days after the enactment of 
     this act.

                      Office of Inspector General

       The agreement includes $139,000,000 for the Office of 
     Inspector General.
       Audits of Grant Programs.--The agreement directs the OIG to 
     thoroughly audit the Department's grant making components and 
     provide quarterly reports to the Committees regarding the 
     Department's implementation of grant programs.

                    United States Parole Commission


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement includes $14,000,000 for the salaries and 
     expenses of the United States Parole Commission.

                            Legal Activities


            SALARIES AND EXPENSES, GENERAL LEGAL ACTIVITIES

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The agreement includes $1,090,000,000 for General Legal 
     Activities. For fiscal year 2024, the agreement adopts the 
     language in House Report 117-395 on 
     ``Deinstitutionalization.''
       Office of Immigration Litigation (OIL) Performance.--The 
     agreement directs OIL, District Court and Appellate Sections, 
     no later than 120 days after the enactment of this act, to 
     provide the Committees all training materials for OIL trial 
     attorneys, special litigation counsels, and assistant 
     directors. The agreement further directs the Appellate 
     Section to provide, no later than 90 days after the date of 
     enactment of this act, a report, with data from fiscal year 
     2018 though fiscal year 2024 year to date, that includes the 
     number of cases that the OIL District and Appellate Sections 
     agreed to resolve through judicial administrative closure, 
     Jacobson remand, or dismissal without prejudice.
       U.S. Forest Service Litigation.--The agreement encourages 
     the Department to provide dedicated resources for litigation 
     regarding national forest restoration projects of the U.S. 
     Forest Service. The agreement further encourages the 
     Department to prioritize efforts based on regions of the U.S. 
     Forest Service with high volumes of litigation and to draw 
     from litigators with experience with national forest 
     restoration projects.


                 VaCCINE INJURY COMPENSATION TRUST FUND

       The agreement includes a reimbursement of $22,700,000 for 
     Department expenses associated with litigating cases under 
     the National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act of 1986 (Public Law 
     99-660).


               SALARIES AND EXPENSES, ANTITRUST DIVISION

       The agreement includes $233,000,000 for the Antitrust 
     Division. This appropriation reflects a current estimated 
     projection of actual fee collections for fiscal year 2024.
       Pre-merger Filing Fees.--In lieu of language in the Senate 
     report under the same heading, the agreement acknowledges the 
     inherent structural challenges of providing predictable, 
     sustainable appropriations to fee-funded agencies, including 
     the Antitrust Division, as fee collections are inherently 
     unpredictable and vary based on economic conditions and other 
     factors. The agreement recognizes the importance of 
     predictable, sustainable funding for the Antitrust Division, 
     and encourages the Department to work with Congressional 
     committees of jurisdiction to address such challenges.


             SALARIES AND EXPENSES, UNITED STATES ATTORNEYS

       The agreement includes $2,611,000,000 for the Executive 
     Office for United States Attorneys and the 94 United States 
     Attorneys' offices.


                   UNITED STATES TRUSTEE SYSTEM FUND

       The agreement includes $245,000,000 for the United States 
     Trustee Program.


      SALARIES AND EXPENSES, FOREIGN CLAIMS SETTLEMENT COMMISSION

       The agreement includes $2,504,000 for the Foreign Claims 
     Settlement Commission.


                     FEES AND EXPENSES OF WITNESSES

       The agreement includes $270,000,000 for Fees and Expenses 
     of Witnesses. The agreement expects that no funds will be 
     obligated for expert witness services, including the payment 
     of fees and expenses of expert witnesses, from any other DOJ 
     accounts other than Fees and Expenses of Witnesses.


           SALARIES AND EXPENSES, COMMUNITY RELATIONS SERVICE

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The agreement includes $24,000,000 for the Community 
     Relations Service.


                         ASSETS FORFEITURE FUND

       The agreement includes $20,514,000 for the Assets 
     Forfeiture Fund.

                     United States Marshals Service


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement includes $1,692,000,000 for the salaries and 
     expenses of the United States Marshals Service (USMS).
       International Megan's Law.--Within the funding provided, 
     the agreement supports the enforcement of laws relating to 
     international travel of sex offenders, including through the 
     Angel Watch Center.
       Judicial Security and Protective Operations.--The agreement 
     acknowledges USMS' important responsibility to protect the 
     life and safety of Federal judges, their families, and 
     Federal judiciary employees. The agreement directs the USMS 
     to fully enforce all applicable laws to provide for the 
     appropriate protection of the Federal judiciary. Within the 
     funds provided, the agreement expects the USMS to dedicate 
     the requisite resources for this protection mission. The 
     agreement further supports USMS implementation of its 
     responsibilities described in section 5936(b) of the Daniel 
     Anderl Judicial Security and Privacy Act of 2022 (Public Law 
     117-263), within funds provided.
       Regional Fugitive Task Forces (RFTF).--The agreement 
     directs the USMS to submit an updated report on the expansion 
     of the RFTF program. In contemplating the establishment of 
     new RFTFs, the USMS is encouraged to give consideration to 
     regions of the United States that are not currently served by 
     a RFTF including the Midwest and New England.


                              CONSTRUCTION

       The agreement includes $15,000,000 for construction and 
     related expenses in space controlled, occupied, or utilized 
     by the USMS for prisoner holding and related support.


                       FEDERAL PRISONER DETENTION

       The agreement includes $2,100,000,000 for Federal Prisoner 
     Detention.

[[Page S1406]]

  


                       National Security Division


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The agreement includes $128,000,000 for the salaries and 
     expenses of the National Security Division (NSD).
       Countering Espionage by the People's Republic of China 
     (PRC).--The agreement directs the NSD to provide a report to 
     the Committees, within 60 days of enactment of this act, 
     outlining all efforts undertaken to continue the 
     identification and prosecution of espionage efforts against 
     American businesses, research institutions, and academia 
     emanating from the PRC.

                      Interagency Law Enforcement


              ORGANIZED CRIME DRUG ENFORCEMENT TASK FORCES

       The agreement includes $547,000,000 for the Organized Crime 
     Drug Enforcement Task Forces.

                    Federal Bureau of Investigation


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement includes $10,643,713,000 for the salaries and 
     expenses of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
       Field Integration Study.--The agreement directs the FBI to 
     conduct a study and provide a report to the Committees, no 
     later than 270 days after the enactment of this act, on the 
     feasibility of expanding the FBI operations in regional 
     offices around the country. Such study should also examine 
     the existing resources and infrastructure of FBI facilities 
     with the capacity for expansion throughout the United States. 
     The agreement directs the FBI to include in the report an 
     assessment of the utility and costs associated with such 
     expansions of resources and personnel.
       National Instant Criminal Background Check System.--Within 
     the amounts provided, the agreement expects the FBI to 
     allocate the full amount of resources necessary for all 
     statutorily required firearm background checks through its 
     National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS).
       Network Investigative Techniques.--The agreement directs 
     the FBI to provide the Committees, not later than 90 days 
     after the date of the enactment of this act, a classified 
     briefing that addresses the following matters, over the last 
     three fiscal years: (1) the number of operations in which the 
     FBI has used network investigative techniques; (2) the number 
     of such instances that were court-authorized; (3) the number 
     of such instances that were authorized by the Foreign 
     Intelligence Surveillance Court; and (4) the number of 
     individuals, devices, and accounts that were searched 
     remotely by the FBI.
       Targeting Fentanyl.--The agreement directs the FBI, within 
     funds provided, to allocate the maximum amount of available 
     resources, as practicable, to support a comprehensive, multi-
     pronged criminal enterprise strategy to target fentanyl and 
     opioid trafficking on Darknet and Clearnet, enhance 
     intelligence and anti-money laundering activities, and 
     support investigations that focus on identifying, targeting, 
     disrupting, degrading, and dismantling transnational criminal 
     organizations (TCOs).
       TCOs and Counternarcotics Investigations.--The agreement 
     urges the FBI to continue its efforts to address TCOs and 
     counternarcotics investigations in Central America.
       Child Exploitation and Trafficking.--The agreement 
     acknowledges the increased use of digital services for child 
     exploitation and trafficking. The agreement encourages the 
     FBI to consider using a biometric identification system to 
     bridge current information gaps and enhance investigation 
     efforts within the FBI, through the procurement of a 
     software-related database to share information across law 
     enforcement agencies. The system should create a standardized 
     vetting process and provide data visualization tools to help 
     expedite and recover victims of exploitation.
       Terrorist Explosive Device Analytical Center (TEDAC) and 
     Hazardous Device School (HDS).--The agreement provides up to 
     the fiscal year 2023 enacted levels for TEDAC and HOS.
       National Bioforensic Analysis Center (NBFAC).--The 
     agreement provides up to $21,840,000 for the FBI's role at 
     the NBFAC.
       Combatting Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking.--The 
     agreement directs the FBI to allocate additional staff 
     dedicated to human trafficking at its field offices with the 
     largest geographic areas of responsibility.


                              CONSTRUCTION

       The agreement includes $30,000,000 for FBI construction.

                    Drug Enforcement Administration


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement includes a direct appropriation of 
     $2,567,000,000 for the salaries and expenses of the Drug 
     Enforcement Administration (DEA). In addition, DEA expects to 
     derive $620,000,000 from fees deposited in the Diversion 
     Control Fee Account to carry out the Diversion Control 
     Program, resulting in $3,187,000,000 in total spending 
     authority.
       Digital Evidence to Combat the Fentanyl Crisis.--The 
     agreement urges DEA to establish and formalize a tiered 
     digital evidence enterprise program. The agreement directs 
     DEA to report to the Committees on the cost of establishing 
     and formalizing a tiered digital evidence program 
     encompassing the entire digital evidence workflow in which 
     DEA personnel would uniformly deploy digital evidence 
     technical capabilities and training across all 23 DEA 
     divisions. The agreement further directs DEA to report to the 
     Committees on its strategic plan on the utilization of 
     established internationally and nationally recognized 
     training programs and policy and procedures development 
     utilizing already established national best practices. 
     Finally, the agreement directs the DEA to report its 
     strategic plan on its current state and future state 
     partnerships with state and local digital laboratories and to 
     develop a collaborative and comprehensive best practices 
     document.
       Supply Shortage of Amphetamine Formulations.--The agreement 
     directs DEA to issue a report to the Committees, no later 
     than 90 days after the enactment of this act, on the impact 
     DEA production quotas are having on the current supply 
     shortage, and whether such production quotas will, or should, 
     be modified.
       Opioid Takeback Programs.--The agreement encourages DEA to 
     consider updating regulations within its jurisdiction to 
     enhance and expand opioid takeback programs, thereby 
     improving the options for safely disposing unused opioid 
     medications.
       Appropriations Liaison.--The agreement directs DEA to 
     maintain a dedicated appropriations liaison office within the 
     Office of the Chief Financial Officer.
       Counter Threat Teams.--The agreement directs DEA, within 
     funding provided, to continue developing its Counter Threat 
     Teams (CTT) initiative. DEA is further directed to submit a 
     report on all associated costs to fully implement this 
     initiative nationwide and the costs associated with 
     implementation in the current fiscal year within 90 days of 
     enactment of this act. The agreement directs DEA to brief the 
     Committees no later than 120 days after the enactment of the 
     act on the CTTs.

          Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement includes $1,625,000,000 for the salaries and 
     expenses of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and 
     Explosives (ATF).
       Electronic Forms (``eForms'') Application Process.--The 
     agreement strongly urges ATF to provide a mechanism for 
     allowing eForms applicants to correct mistakes without having 
     to resubmit their application.
       National Firearms Act Application Processing Times.--The 
     agreement directs ATF and the FBI to continue collaboration 
     to improve the process for consideration of applications to 
     address ongoing delays in application processing times.
       National Integrated Ballistic Information Network 
     (NIBIN).--The agreement directs the continued expansion of 
     NIBIN, including additional entry stations, additional law 
     enforcement coordination, expanded training and technology 
     investments to Tribal law enforcement, within funds provided. 
     The agreement directs that ATF examine ways to expand access 
     to NIBIN to state and local agencies in the New England and 
     southwest border regions.
       Enhancing Capacity of Ballistic Matches.--Within the funds 
     provided, the agreement encourages ATF to prioritize the 
     development and implementation of technologies that enhance 
     the efficiency and accuracy of ballistics imaging triage, 
     reduce turnaround times for analysis of ballistics evidence, 
     and improve the sharing of information and data among law 
     enforcement agencies. ATF is further encouraged to prioritize 
     the implementation of currently available technologies that 
     enhance the efficiency and accuracy of bullet imaging 
     comparisons. The agreement encourages ATF to ensure such 
     efforts support NIBIN and Crime Gun Intelligence Center 
     (CGIC) initiatives to address gun violence. The agreement 
     further encourages ATF to coordinate with state and local law 
     enforcement agencies on the adoption of technology that 
     aligns with their needs. Finally, the agreement directs ATF 
     to report to the Committees, no later than one year after the 
     date of the enactment of this act, on the availability and 
     viability of such technology, including by assessing its 
     effectiveness in providing real-time forensic-based 
     intelligence to law enforcement and any challenges associated 
     with its adoption, and any recommendations for improvements.
       Facilities.--In lieu of Senate report language regarding 
     the National Services Center, the agreement directs ATF to 
     submit a report to the Committees, within 120 days of 
     enactment of this act, on the needs, including occupational 
     hazards and risks as well as impact on ATF's mission, 
     associated with mission-critical facilities.

                         Federal Prison System


                         salaries and expenses

                     (including transfer of funds)

       The agreement includes $8,392,588,000 for the salaries and 
     expenses of the Federal Prison System. Of the amount made 
     available under this heading, no less than the fiscal year 
     2023 level shall be used for land mobile radio (LMR) 
     communication and video security upgrades. The 44 agreement 
     recommends no less than fiscal year 2023 enacted levels to 
     sustain and increase Bureau of Prisons (BOP) hiring efforts.
       Report on Sexual Harassment.--The agreement directs BOP to 
     submit a report, no later than 90 days after the enactment of 
     this act, on its continued efforts to address sexual 
     harassment and assault of female inmates in BOP facilities, 
     resources necessary to keep female inmates safe, and other 
     measures to ensure all BOP employees are aware of their 
     responsibilities.

[[Page S1407]]

       Hiring and Vacancies.--The agreement adopts the directive 
     in the Senate report on ``Hiring and Staff Reports.'' In 
     addition, the agreement directs the Department to coordinate 
     with the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) to enable 
     expedited hiring for BOP facilities with vacancy rates 
     exceeding 10 percent and to make use of recruitment and 
     retention bonuses. The agreement instructs BOP to describe 
     such efforts in the report.
       Staffing at Medium Security Institutions.--The agreement 
     encourages BOP to increase the number of correctional 
     officers at medium-security institutions. The agreement 
     further encourages BOP to add one additional officer per two 
     housing units, per shift, per day, at all medium-security 
     institutions and institutions housing female inmates. The 
     agreement further encourages BOP to supplement current 
     staffing numbers and encourages BOP to staff all housing 
     units or occupied parts of the housing units. The agreement 
     further urges BOP to cease the practice of vacating housing 
     units after-hours while offenders are secure in cells.
       Augmentation.--The agreement adopts the directives in the 
     Senate report under the same heading, and directs BOP to 
     submit a report outlining the agency's augmentation usage 
     practices, no later than 60 days after the enactment of this 
     act. The agreement further directs BOP to provide a briefing 
     regarding the report no later than 15 days after its 
     submission.
       Officer Pay.--The agreement directs BOP to share with the 
     Committees the results of its review required under the 
     heading ``Direct Hire Authority'' in the Senate report on 
     correctional officer pay scales immediately upon its 
     completion.
       Overtime Pay Rate.--In lieu of the directive in the Senate 
     report under the same heading, the agreement adopts the 
     directives in the joint explanatory statement accompanying 
     Public Law 117-103 on ``Overtime Pay Rate.''
       First Step Act (FSA) Staffing.--The agreement encourages 
     BOP to hire additional programming staff to successfully 
     provide these key programs and ensure that each facility has 
     a Special Education Teacher on staff. The agreement further 
     encourages BOP to hire a Special Populations Manager at each 
     BOP institution to ensure that additional FSA programming can 
     be provided. Positions that are vital to the FSA should be 
     added to institution staffing requirements and not taken from 
     existing staffing complements.
       Restrictive Housing.--The agreement encourages BOP to 
     significantly reduce the number of Federal inmates in 
     restricted housing, including by opening transition units and 
     other specialized units for populations often sent to 
     restricted housing, and by working with regional directors 
     and wardens to address the widespread reliance on restricted 
     housing.
       Open GAO Recommendations.--The agreement directs BOP to 
     provide to the Committees, no later than 180 days after the 
     enactment of this act, a report that: (1) identifies all BOP-
     related recommendations issued by the GAO over the last ten 
     fiscal years that remain open; and (2) describes the steps 
     BOP is taking to implement all recommended actions and close 
     out each open recommendation.
       Camera and Radio Systems in Federal Prison Facilities.--The 
     agreement directs BOP to submit, no later than 90 days after 
     the enactment of this act, a three-year plan to upgrade its 
     security camera, LMR communication, and public address (PA) 
     systems at all BOP correctional facilities. Such plan should 
     address current system deficiencies, including a lack of 
     functioning systems, blind spots, or radios lacking a ``man 
     down'' function; the need for, and cost of, planned system 
     maintenance and upgrades, including analog-to-digital system 
     conversion; needed upgrades to ensure storage, logging, 
     preservation, and accessibility of records for investigators 
     or courts; and any other enterprise-wide considerations for 
     such technologies and systems. Additionally, the agreement 
     directs BOP to incorporate into the plan a cost projection 
     and prioritization of facilities for security camera, LMR, 
     and PA system upgrades.
       Government Identification.--The agreement directs the BOP 
     to identify key stakeholders and leverage their expertise to 
     help ensure that BOP maximizes the potential uses of the new 
     Federal ID card. Further, the agreement directs BOP to 
     provide a report, no later than 180 days after the enactment 
     of this act, on its efforts to leverage stakeholder expertise 
     to ensure the rollout of the new Federal ID card is 
     successful.
       Healthcare Reentry.--The agreement directs BOP to conduct a 
     comprehensive assessment of the effectiveness of BOP's 
     policies and procedures for facilitating enrollment in 
     Medicaid or other health care coverage for inmates nearing 
     reentry, and for helping to ensure continuity of care upon 
     release from BOP custody. The agreement directs BOP to report 
     on these efforts no later than 90 days after the enactment of 
     this act. The agreement further directs BOP to assess the 
     effectiveness of Federal prison healthcare, including any 
     targeted assistance for facilitating enrollment in Medicaid 
     or other health coverage for inmates nearing reentry. The 
     agreement also encourages BOP to establish a communication or 
     coordination mechanism with state Medicaid agencies, or the 
     Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, to facilitate the 
     application and enrollment process for individuals leaving 
     incarceration.
       Social Workers.--The agreement encourages BOP to establish 
     procedures to improve the staffing levels for social workers, 
     including by working with OPM.
       Staffing Shortages.--The agreement adopts the directive in 
     the Senate report under this same heading. In addition, as 
     part of the report required under such directive, the 
     agreement directs BOP to research the feasibility of a 
     retention incentive, not to exceed 10 percent, for no-
     supervisory law enforcement employees nearing retirement.
       Naloxone.--The agreement directs BOP to develop policies 
     and procedures to train all staff in administering naloxone. 
     The agreement further directs BOP to provide a report, no 
     later than 180 days after the enactment of this act, 
     detailing all efforts to train BOP employees to administer 
     naloxone, how many BOP employees carry naloxone, how many 
     times naloxone has been administered in BOP facilities during 
     the previous 12 months, and how many overdoses occurred in 
     BOP facilities during the previous 12 months.
       Inmate Treatment.--The agreement encourages BOP to make 
     abstinence-based relapse prevention treatment options 
     available to inmates with a history of opioid dependence.
       Mail Scanning.--The agreement directs BOP to submit a 
     report to the Committees, no later than 60 days after the 
     enactment of this act, detailing the cost of deploying 
     digital mail scanning technology at all BOP detention 
     facilities, including potential cost savings or benefits that 
     may result from having fewer staff involved in the mail 
     scanning process.
       Inmate Trust Accounts.--The agreement directs the 
     Department to report to the Committees, no later than 180 
     days after the enactment of this act, on the number of inmate 
     trust fund accounts with a balance over $5,000.
       Roadmap to Reentry.--The agreement encourages BOP to 
     reestablish the principles identified in the Justice 
     Department's ``Roadmap to Reentry,'' and to begin the process 
     of implementing these principles to improve the correctional 
     practices and programs, including providing the following: 
     (1) individualized reentry plans for individuals; (2) access 
     to education, employment training, life skills, substance 
     abuse, mental health, and other programs; (3) resources and 
     opportunities to build and maintain family relationships; (4) 
     individualized continuity of care; and (5) comprehensive 
     reentry-related information and access to resources.
       Swift-Certain-Fair (SCF) Model in the Federal Prison 
     System.--The agreement encourages the BOP to establish SCF 
     pilot programs in BOP housing units based upon best practices 
     developed by other applicable corrections agencies, and to 
     collect data on the effectiveness of the program. The 
     agreement directs BOP to provide, within 90 days of the 
     enactment of this act, a report evaluating the pilot and 
     making recommendations on its replication.


                        buildings and facilities

       The agreement includes $179,762,000 for the construction, 
     acquisition, modernization, maintenance, and repair of prison 
     and detention facilities housing Federal inmates.
       Modernization and Repair of Existing Facilities.--The 
     agreement expects BOP to apply funds provided in fiscal year 
     2024 to reduce its longstanding Modernization and Repair 
     (M&R) backlog and directs BOP to prioritize funding for 
     repairs that protect life and safety. The agreement further 
     directs BOP to continue providing a schedule and timeline for 
     repairs of facilities with geological and seismic 
     deficiencies, and to include updates in the monthly M&R 
     reports.
       Taft, California.--The agreement encourages the BOP to 
     expeditiously advance repairs at this facility consistent 
     with the timeline established in 2021. Accordingly, the 
     agreement directs BOP to provide the Committees, no later 
     than 60 days after the enactment of this act, a detailed 
     timeline of all work related to repairing, rebuilding, 
     renovating, or otherwise required for this facility.
       Deferred Maintenance and FSA Needs.--The agreement directs 
     BOP to provide to the Committees, no later than 180 days 
     after the enactment of this act, a facilities investment plan 
     to address BOP's current facility requirements. The agreement 
     further directs BOP to include in such plan an assessment of 
     the condition of all BOP facilities, any BOP plans to address 
     deferred maintenance backlogs with repair estimates broken 
     out by priority categories, explanations of how appropriated 
     funding will be applied in fiscal year 2024 to address the 
     backlog, and a multi-year outlook on investment in its 
     current facilities. The agreement encourages BOP to also 
     include details on how Public Law 115-391 impacts building 
     and facility requirements and reentry program implementation.


   limitation on administrative expenses, federal prison industries, 
                              incorporated

       The agreement includes a limitation on administrative 
     expenses of $2,700,000 for Federal Prison Industries, 
     Incorporated.

               State and Local Law Enforcement Activities

       In total, the agreement includes $4,501,377,000 for state 
     and local law enforcement and crime prevention programs. This 
     amount includes $4,247,377,000 in discretionary budget 
     authority, $80,000,000 derived by transfer from the Crime 
     Victims Fund, and $174,000,000 scored as mandatory for Public 
     Safety Officer Benefits. The Department is directed to submit 
     an annual report on grant programs that have not received a 
     sufficient number of qualified applicants.
       Bipartisan Safer Communities Act.--In addition to the 
     resources provided in this act,

[[Page S1408]]

     the agreement recognizes that additional funds have been made 
     available to certain grant programs by Public Law 117-159.
       STOP School Violence Act.--The agreement directs the 
     Department to continue following the directives in the joint 
     explanatory statement accompanying Public Law 117-103 under 
     the heading ``STOP School Violence Act.'' Additionally, the 
     agreement directs BJA to prioritize mental health crisis 
     intervention, applicants from rural and low-resourced school 
     districts, and applicants incorporating crisis centers and 
     evidence-based trainings for students and staff within their 
     anonymous reporting systems, as permitted under the act. 
     Recognizing that the STOP School Violence Act was enacted in 
     2018, BJA is directed to report, no later than 180 days after 
     the enactment of this act, on the demographics of recipient 
     schools, strategies employed to reach low-resourced 
     communities (such as microgrants), and efforts to improve 
     technical assistance in support of grantee capacity.
       Grant Programs Crosswalks.--The Department is directed to 
     provide the Committees, as part of the spend plan submitted 
     pursuant to section 528 of this act, a crosswalk of the 
     Office on Violence Against Women (OVW), Office of Justice 
     Programs (OJP), and Community Oriented Policing Services 
     Office (COPS) grant program solicitations, which includes the 
     same level of information and detail as was provided to the 
     Committee with respect to the solicitations of the 
     Department's grant program offices in fiscal year 2023.
       Improving Grant Reporting.--The agreement notes the recent 
     GAO report entitled, ``Grants Management: Actions Needed to 
     Improve Agency Reporting of Expired Grants,'' and highlights 
     the recommendation that the Department ``should resume 
     reporting on undisbursed balances from expired grants in its 
     annual Agency Financial Report or Performance and 
     Accountability Report and annual performance plan,'' as 
     required by section 524 of this act. The Department is 
     expected to fulfill this recommendation and to resume 
     reporting this information.
       Tribal Grants and Victim Assistance.--The agreement 
     provides a total of $118,000,000 in discretionary grant 
     funding for Tribes as follows: $50,000,000 within the Office 
     of Justice Programs (OJP) for Tribal assistance; $16,000,000 
     for a Tribal youth program within the Office of Juvenile 
     Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP); $34,000,000 for 
     Tribal resources and $4,000,000 for a Tribal Access Program 
     within the COPS Office; and $11,000,000 for a special 
     domestic violence criminal jurisdiction program and 
     $3,000,000 for a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney on Tribal 
     land program within the OVW. In addition, a total of 
     $67,650,000 is provided to Tribal governments and Tribal 
     coalitions in OVC funding as part of set-asides determined by 
     program statute. For fiscal year 2024, the Department is 
     directed to continue following the directives and reporting 
     requirements in the joint explanatory statement accompanying 
     Public Law 116-260 for ``Tribal Grants and Victim 
     Assistance.''

                    Office on Violence Against Women


       violence against women prevention and prosecution programs

                     (including transfers of funds)

       The agreement includes $713,000,000 for the Office on 
     Violence Against Women. These funds are distributed as 
     follows:

       VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN PREVENTION AND PROSECUTION PROGRAMS
                        (In thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                          Program                               Amount
------------------------------------------------------------------------
STOP Grants................................................     $255,000
  Sexual Assault Survivors' Bill of Rights.................     (10,000)
Transitional House Assistance..............................       50,000
Research and Evaluation on Violence Against Women..........        2,500
Consolidated Youth Oriented Programs.......................       17,000
  Engaging Men and Youth in Prevention.....................      (3,500)
  Improving Criminal Justice Responses.....................       60,500
  Homicide Reduction Initiative............................      (4,000)
  Domestic Violence Lethality Reduction Initiative.........      (4,000)
  Policing and Prosecution Initiative......................      (8,000)
Sexual Assault Services Program............................       78,500
Rural Domestic Violence and Child Abuse Enforcement........       50,000
Violence on College Campuses...............................       25,000
  HBCU, HSI, and Tribal Colleges and Universities..........     (12,500)
Legal Assistance for Victims...............................       55,000
Abuse Later in Life Program................................        9,000
Justice for Families Program...............................       22,000
Disabilities Program.......................................       12,000
National Resource Center on Workplace Responses............        1,000
Research on Violence Against Indian Women..................        1,000
Indian Country Sexual Assault Clearinghouse................          500
Tribal Special Domestic Violence Criminal Jurisdiction.....       11,000
Rape Survivor Child Custody Act............................        1,500
Sec. 41801 of Pub. L. No. 103-322..........................       15,000
Culturally Specific Services...............................       11,000
Tribal Special Assistant U.S. Attorneys....................        3,000
Sec. 206 of Pub. L. No. 107-103............................        1,000
Underserved Populations Program............................        5,000
Financial Assistance Program...............................        4,000
Abby Honold Act............................................        5,000
Access to Sexual Assault Nurse Exams.......................       10,000
Cybercrime Enforcement.....................................        5,500
                                                            ============
    Total, Violence Against Women Prevention and                $713,000
     Prosecution Programs..................................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       To minimize fraud, waste, and abuse in these programs, OVW 
     is encouraged to implement any open recommendations of the 
     Department's OIG with respect to the recipients of grants 
     under these programs.
       Crime Victims Fund.--The agreement allows for obligations 
     of $1,353,000,000 from the Crime Victims Fund, $153,000,000 
     above the amount requested by the Department for fiscal year 
     2024. In an effort to appropriately balance support for the 
     breadth of victims and related services, the agreement 
     provides $80,000,000 of this amount to support Violence 
     Against Women Prevention and Prosecution Programs. The 
     agreement underscores this one-time transfer is not intended 
     as a funding mechanism in future years but as a means to 
     provide critical support for victims in the current fiscal 
     environment.
       Access to Sexual Assault Nurse Exams.--The agreement 
     includes $10,000,000 for grants for regional sexual assault 
     nurse examiner (SANE) training, salaries for SANEs and sexual 
     assault forensic examiners (SAFEs), and technical assistance 
     and resources to increase access to SANEs and SAFEs, as 
     authorized by the Violence Against Women Act of 2022 
     (division W of Public Law 117-103). OVW is further directed 
     to follow the directives described in the Senate report under 
     the same heading.
       Sexual Assault Survivors' Bill of Rights.--The agreement 
     again provides $10,000,000 as part of the STOP grants for the 
     recently enacted Sexual Assault Survivors' Bill of Rights, a 
     new and consequential grant program that incentivizes states 
     to codify and standardize survivor rights. OVW did not 
     request funding for this new program in fiscal year 2024, and 
     the agreement notes this gap in funding and OVW's reported 
     challenges in implementing this new program. The agreement 
     directs the Department to submit a report to the Committee, 
     within 120 days of enactment of this act, detailing any 
     applicants deemed by OVW as ineligible for this funding and 
     the reasons for the ineligibility.
       Suicide Prevention.--The Department is directed to report 
     to the Committees regarding its efforts, in consultation with 
     the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services 
     Administration, to establish best practices to prevent 
     suicide by survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, 
     dating violence, and stalking.
       Statutory Set-Asides.--The underlying statutes for several 
     grant programs, including Services, Training, Officers, and 
     Prosecutors (STOP) Grants and Sexual Assault Services Program 
     (SASP) grants, outline set-asides for Tribal governments and 
     coalitions, culturally specific community-based 
     organizations, and organizations providing services to 
     underserved populations. These set-asides provide a total of 
     $88,998,535 for fiscal year 2024, with $65,513,535 for Tribal 
     governments and coalitions, $17,175,000 for culturally 
     specific organizations, and $6,310,000 to meet the needs of 
     underserved populations. OVW shall ensure that the full 
     amounts provided for in the authorizing statutes are awarded 
     expeditiously.

                       Office of Justice Programs


                  Research, Evaluation and Statistics

       The agreement provides $65,000,000 for the Research, 
     Evaluation and Statistics account. These funds are 
     distributed as follows:

                   RESEARCH, EVALUATION AND STATISTICS
                        (In thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                Amount
                          Program                               ($000)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bureau of Justice Statistics...............................      $35,000
National Institute of Justice..............................       30,000
  Research on Multidisciplinary Partnerships...............      (1,500)
  Forensic Research........................................      (1,500)
                                                            ============
    Total, Research, Evaluation and Statistics.............      $65,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Research at National Institute of Justice (NIJ).--In 
     addition to $3,500,000 transferred from the OVW for research 
     and evaluation on violence against women and Indian women, 
     the agreement provides $1,500,000 for a study on the current 
     landscape of multidisciplinary teams working on sexual 
     exploitation crimes against children as described in the 
     Senate report under the heading, ``Study on Multidisciplinary 
     Teams.'' Further, the agreement includes no less than 
     $1,500,000 for NIJ to research forensic science for criminal 
     justice purposes.
       Bail and Pretrial Release Statistics.--The Bureau of 
     Justice Statistics (BJS) is directed, within 90 days of the 
     enactment of this act to provide a report, if feasible, 
     containing information relating to individuals granted bail 
     and pretrial release that are charged with one or more 
     violent felony offenses. The report shall include data on 
     bail or pretrial release as follows: (1) the number of 
     individuals that are charged with one or more violent felony 
     offenses that are granted bail or pretrial release, (2) the 
     number of individuals who, after being granted bail or 
     pretrial release, are rearrested or charged with an 
     additional violent felony offense, (3) the percentage of 
     individuals granted bail or pretrial release who are charged 
     with a violent felony offense and have a prior arrest or 
     conviction for a violent felony offense, (4) the number of 
     missed court appearances by such individuals charged with a 
     violent felony offense and (5) the classification of the 
     violent felony offenses. In addition, the report shall detail 
     the National Pretrial Reporting Program's work on this issue 
     and provide an accounting of the amounts spent on this in 
     fiscal year 2023, including transfers. Further, the report 
     shall include information on bail and pretrial release, 
     including any grants or contracts awarded for that purpose, 
     and the amount and purpose of each grant or contract.
       Forensic Science Operational Needs Assessment.--NIJ shall 
     provide a report to the Committees on the projected workload, 
     backlog, personnel, workforce, resources, necessary 
     turnaround times for law enforcement officers and officers of 
     the court, and equipment needs of forensic science providers 
     and forensic medical service providers, no later than

[[Page S1409]]

     180 days after the enactment of this act. The report should 
     be conducted in conjunction with the Forensic Laboratory 
     Needs Technology Working Group and the Federal Interagency 
     Medicolegal Death Investigation Working Group. Further, the 
     Department shall consider in its reporting the most recent 
     BJS census reports on publicly funded forensic science 
     service providers, digital forensic science service 
     providers, and medical examiner and coroner offices; the NIJ 
     report entitled, ``Report to Congress: Needs Assessment of 
     Forensic Laboratories and Medical Examiner/Coroner Offices'' 
     and any other relevant studies; and the practical and applied 
     implications of any other scientific reports on forensic 
     science with relevance to the operational, quality 
     management, and practical needs of the forensic science 
     community.

               State and Local Law Enforcement Assistance


                     (including transfer of funds)

       The agreement includes $2,475,061,000 for State and Local 
     Law Enforcement Assistance programs. These funds are 
     distributed as follows:

               STATE AND LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT ASSISTANCE
                        (In thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                Amount
                          Program                               ($000)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grants...................      924,061
  Officer Robert Wilson III VALOR Initiative...............     (13,000)
  NamUs....................................................      (3,000)
  Officer Training for Responding to People with Mental         (10,000)
   Illness or Disabilities.................................
  John R. Justice Grant Program............................      (3,000)
  Prison Rape Prevention and Prosecution...................     (15,500)
  Kevin and Avonte's Law...................................      (3,000)
  Project Safe Neighborhoods...............................     (19,000)
  Capital Litigation and Wrongful Conviction Review........     (12,000)
  National Center (as authorized by Pub. L. No. 117-328)...      (3,000)
  Ashanti Alert Network....................................      (1,000)
  Family-Based Alternative Sentencing Pilot Programs.......      (3,500)
  Child Advocacy Training..................................      (1,000)
  Rural Violent Crime Initiative...........................      (7,000)
  Missing Persons and Unidentified Remains Act.............      (5,000)
  Forensic Ballistics Programs in Higher Education.........      (1,500)
  Pilot Program as authorized by Sec. 1506 of VAWA Reauth..      (3,000)
  Presidential Nominating Conventions (total described         (125,000)
   below)..................................................
  Byrne Discretionary Community Project Funding/Byrne          (350,028)
   Discretionary Grants....................................
State Criminal Alien Assistance Program....................      234,000
Victims of Trafficking Grants..............................       88,000
Economic, High-tech, White Collar, and Cybercrime                 12,000
 Prevention................................................
  Intellectual Property Enforcement Program................      (2,500)
  Internet of Things Training Modules......................      (2,000)
Adam Walsh Implementation..................................       19,000
National Sex Offender Public Website.......................        1,000
Patrick Leahy Bulletproof Vest Partnership Grant Program...       30,000
  Transfer to NIST/OLES....................................      (1,500)
National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS)          88,000
 Initiative................................................
  NICS Acts Record Improvement Program.....................     (25,000)
Paul Coverdell Forensic Science............................       34,000
DNA Initiative.............................................      153,000
  Debbie Smith DNA Backlog Grants..........................    (120,000)
  State and Local Forensic Activities......................     (15,000)
  Kirk Bloodsworth Post-Conviction DNA Testing Grants......     (14,000)
  Sexual Assault Forensic Exam Program Grants..............      (4,000)
Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI).......................       51,500
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA)...................       14,000
Tribal Assistance..........................................       50,000
Second Chance Act/Offender Re-entry........................      117,000
  Smart Probation..........................................      (8,000)
  Children of Incarcerated Parents Demo Grants.............      (5,000)
  Pay for Success..........................................      (7,500)
  Project HOPE Opportunity Probation with Enforcement......      (5,000)
  Crisis Stabilization and Community Re-entry..............     (10,000)
Anti-Opioid and Substance Abuse Initiative.................      420,000
  Drug Courts..............................................     (89,000)
  Mentally Ill Offender Act................................     (40,000)
  Residential Substance Drug Treatment.....................     (35,000)
  Veterans Treatment Courts................................     (32,000)
  Prescription Drug Monitoring.............................     (35,000)
  Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Use           (189,000)
   Disorder Program........................................
Keep Young Athletes Safe Act of 2018.......................        2,500
STOP School Violence Act...................................       82,000
Emmett Till Act Grants.....................................        3,000
Hate Crime Prevention Act Grants...........................       17,000
Community-Based Approaches (as authorized by Pub. L. No.           9,000
 117-328)..................................................
Jabara-Heyer NO HATE Act...................................        9,000
Community Trust Initiative.................................      114,000
  Body Worn Camera Partnership Program.....................     (32,000)
  Justice Reinvestment Initiative..........................     (32,000)
  Community Violence Intervention and Prevention...........     (50,000)
Emergency Federal Law Enforcement Assistance...............        3,000
                                                            ============
    Total, State and Local Law Enforcement Assistance......   $2,475,061
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program.--
     The Department is directed to continue following the 
     directives in House Report 117-97 adopted by Public Law 117-
     103 on ``Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (Byrne JAG) 
     Formula program'', and in the joint explanatory statement 
     accompanying Public Law 117-103 on ``Uses of Byrne-JAG 
     Funds.'' The agreement reinforces that Byrne JAG funds may be 
     used by state, local, and Tribal law enforcement to combat 
     and prevent hate crimes, to hire and train cybercrime 
     personnel, and to train law enforcement and emergency 
     dispatch personnel in cybercrime and encourages the use of 
     these funds to support canine programs. The agreement urges 
     the Department to release Byrne JAG funds as expeditiously as 
     possible and clarifies that Byrne JAG funding may not be made 
     available for luxury items, real estate, or construction 
     projects.
       Medication-assisted Treatment.--The agreement acknowledges 
     concern about the impact of the growing epidemic of opioid 
     and synthetic drug abuse and misuse on the law enforcement 
     community and supports the use of Byrne JAG funds for the 
     implementation of medication-assisted treatment programs to 
     assist individuals in maintaining abstinence from all abused 
     or misused drugs.
       Forensic Genetic Genealogical (FGG) DNA Analysis.--Within 
     amounts provided for the Office of Justice Programs, the 
     agreement directs the Department to support efforts to use 
     FGG to investigate unsolved violent crimes, without regard to 
     the status of an applicant agency's sexual assault kit 
     inventory. The Department is directed to track and report 
     regularly on the number of FGG samples analyzed, the types of 
     DNA technology deployed, and the number of perpetrators or 
     human remains identified as a result. Further, the Department 
     is encouraged to fund additional grants for the use of FGG 
     technology under other appropriate programs including, but 
     not limited to, the National Missing and Unidentified Persons 
     System (NamUs) program.
       Body-worn Camera Policy and Implementation Program.--The 
     agreement encourages the Department to prioritize body-worn 
     camera grant funding for agencies serving jurisdictions with 
     populations of less than 50,000.
       Rapid DNA at Booking Stations.--The agreement recognizes 
     that the implementation of booking station Rapid DNA programs 
     are an eligible use of Byrne JAG and SAKI funds and strongly 
     supports the allocation of funds for this purpose within the 
     funds provided and at a level not less than fiscal year 2023. 
     The agreement directs the Department to assist with the 
     initial costs associated with updating criminal history 
     systems, integration with booking station systems, and 
     purchasing new technologies associated with Rapid DNA.
       Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs.--The agreement 
     strongly supports the goals of the Harold Rogers Prescription 
     Drug Monitoring Program and is concerned that a recent BJA 
     reinterpretation of grant rules has effectively prohibited 
     states from using PDMP grant funding to operate their PDMPs 
     by requiring states to connect to a specific data hub 
     solution in order to receive funding. The agreement notes 
     that this is not consistent with allowing states to choose 
     and operate the PDMP and data sharing hubs of their choice 
     and directs BJA to allow states to utilize PDMP grant funding 
     from the Harold Rogers Prescription Drug Monitoring Program 
     to finance the PDMP of their choice and to connect to the 
     interstate data exchange hub of their choice.
       Mentally Ill Offender Act.--The Department is encouraged to 
     prioritize Mentally Ill Offender Act grant funds for the 
     operational expenses of mental health centers that assist 
     those with severe mental health needs who are at risk of 
     recidivism, such as crisis care, residential treatment, 
     outpatient mental health and primary care services, and 
     community re-entry support, and supports funding levels for 
     grants be commensurate with demonstrated community needs.
       De-escalation Technology.--The agreement supports the 
     advancement of de-escalation technology that can better equip 
     law enforcement officers to utilize less-than-lethal force in 
     appropriate circumstances.
       Drug Court Grants.--When administering drug court grants, 
     the Department is encouraged to prioritize grants in rural 
     and low-income areas with high rates of substance abuse and 
     the Department is directed to submit a report, no later than 
     90 days after the enactment of this act, on the distribution 
     of drug court grants authorized by Public Law 114-198, and 
     that details the number of applications for awards, the 
     grantees, and the funding levels of awards from fiscal years 
     2019 to 2024.
       Addressing Data Gaps on Missing and Murdered Indigenous 
     Women and Girls.--The agreement directs the Department, in 
     collaboration with relevant Federal agencies, to report to 
     the Committees, no later than 90 days after the enactment of 
     this act, on a plan to update publicly available data on the 
     crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls, 
     the steps taken to implement ongoing analyses of relevant 
     data, as well as education and outreach to improve future 
     data. The agreement further directs the Department to, no 
     later than 120 days after the enactment of this act, issue a 
     public report and analysis of up-to-date data on missing and 
     murdered Indigenous women and girls.
       Justice Reinvestment Initiative.--The agreement provides 
     $32,000,000 for the Justice Reinvestment Initiative (JRI) and 
     notes that OJP does not plan to support a program that 
     promotes the closing or repurposing of youth detention 
     facilities in fiscal year 2024. The agreement emphasizes that 
     the Department should clearly detail how grant funds are 
     being used in its spend plan prior to allocation, including 
     JRI funds, and notify the Committees within 30 days of any 
     intention to deviate from the previously proposed spend plan.
       Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Use Program 
     (COSSUP).--The agreement provides $10,000,000 within COSSUP 
     for grants to local nonprofits preventing substance use and 
     misuse. BJA shall provide awards to local nonprofits working 
     with law enforcement and community coalitions to educate 
     youth in schools and in extracurricular programing on drug 
     prevention. The agreement further directs the Department to 
     prioritize nonprofit organizations with comprehensive 
     approaches to combatting substance use, including 
     investigations, treatment, and education.
       Daniel Anderl Act.--The agreement directs OJP to begin the 
     implementation of the grant program described in section 
     5934(c) of the Daniel Anderl Judicial Security and Privacy 
     Act of 2022 (Public Law 117-263). The agreement further 
     directs OJP to submit a report, within 180 days of the 
     enactment of this act, on its progress in implementing this 
     program.
       Presidential Nominating Conventions.--The agreement 
     includes a total of $150,000,000 for host cities of the 2024 
     presidential nominating conventions by providing $125,000,000 
     within Byrne JAG and an additional $25,000,000 from the 
     unobligated balances in the Presidential Election Campaign 
     Fund established by section 9006(a) of title 26, United 
     States Code.
       Byrne Discretionary Community Project Grants/Byrne 
     Discretionary Grants

[[Page S1410]]

     (``projects'').--The agreement provides $350,028,000 for 
     projects to prevent crime, improve the criminal justice 
     system, provide victim services, and for other related 
     activities. The agreement directs the Department to provide 
     the funding for the projects listed in the table titled, 
     ``Community Project Funding/Congressionally Directed 
     Spending'' at the end of this joint explanatory statement in 
     the corresponding amounts, which are incorporated by 
     reference in this act.


                       juvenile justice programs

       The agreement includes $375,000,000 for Juvenile Justice 
     programs. These funds are distributed as follows:

                        JUVENILE JUSTICE PROGRAMS
                        (In thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                Amount
                          Program                               ($000)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Part B--State Formula Grants...............................      $65,000
  Emergency Planning--Juvenile Detention Facilities........        (500)
  Youth Mentoring Grants...................................      104,000
Title V--Delinquency Prevention Incentive Grants...........       55,000
  Prevention of Trafficking of Girls.......................      (4,000)
  Tribal Youth.............................................     (16,000)
  Girls in the Justice System..............................      (4,500)
  Opioid Affected Youth Initiative.........................     (10,500)
  Children Exposed to Violence.............................      (9,000)
Victims of Child Abuse Programs............................       41,000
Missing and Exploited Children Programs....................      103,000
Training for Judicial Personnel............................        4,500
Juvenile Indigent Defense..................................        2,500
                                                            ============
    Total, Juvenile Justice Programs.......................     $375,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Forces.--The 
     agreement supports the ICAC program and encourages the 
     Department to prioritize proactive investigations of suspects 
     possessing, distributing, or producing violent child sexual 
     abuse imagery.
       Preventing Trafficking of Girls.--The agreement encourages 
     the Department to make grants to nonprofits and other non-
     governmental entities that have undergone rigorous evaluation 
     and have a successful track record of administering research-
     based prevention and early intervention programs for girls 
     who are vulnerable to trafficking, at a state level, and to 
     scale up and replicate these programs.


                     public safety officer benefits

                     (including transfer of funds)

       The agreement includes $208,800,000 for the Public Safety 
     Officer Benefits program for fiscal year 2024.

                  Community Oriented Policing Services


             community oriented policing services programs

                     (including transfer of funds)

       The agreement includes $664,516,000 for Community Oriented 
     Policing Services (COPS) programs, as follows:

                  COMMUNITY ORIENTED POLICING SERVICES
                        (In thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                          Program                               Amount
------------------------------------------------------------------------
COPS Hiring Program........................................     $256,169
  Tribal Resources Grant Program...........................     (34,000)
  Regional Information Sharing Activities..................     (44,000)
  Tribal Access Program....................................      (4,000)
  Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act...........     (10,000)
  Collaborative Reform Model...............................      (7,500)
Community Policing Development.............................       25,000
POLICE Act.................................................       12,000
Anti-Methamphetamine Task Forces...........................       16,000
Anti-Heroin Task Forces....................................       35,000
STOP School Violence Act...................................       53,000
Law Enforcement Officer De-escalation Training Act.........       20,000
COPS Technology and Equipment Community Projects...........     $247,347
                                                            ============
    Total, Community Oriented Policing Services............     $664,516
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Additional Technical Assistance.--The Committee urges the 
     COPS Office to provide increased technical assistance to 
     applicants who have not previously received COPS grants or 
     otherwise indicate that they are newly established community-
     oriented policing programs.
       Community Oriented Policing Services, Technology and 
     Equipment Community Projects/COPS Law Enforcement Technology 
     and Equipment (``projects'').--The agreement provides 
     $247,347,161 for grants to state, local, Tribal, territorial, 
     and other entities to develop and acquire effective 
     equipment, technologies, and interoperable communications 
     that assist in responding to and preventing crime. The 
     agreement notes that the projects included in this statement 
     should help improve police effectiveness and the flow of 
     information among law enforcement agencies, local government 
     service providers, and the communities they serve. Equipment 
     funded under this program should meet any applicable 
     requirements of the National Institute of Standards and 
     Technology's Office of Law Enforcement Standards. The 
     agreement directs the Department to provide the funding for 
     the projects listed in the table titled, ``Community Project 
     Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending'' at the end of 
     this joint explanatory statement in the corresponding 
     amounts, which are incorporated by reference in this act.

               General Provisions--Department of Justice


                     (including transfers of funds)

       Section 201 makes available additional reception and 
     representation funding for the Attorney General from the 
     amounts provided in this title.
       Section 202 prohibits the use of funds to pay for an 
     abortion, except in the case of rape or incest, or to 
     preserve the life of the mother.
       Section 203 prohibits the use of funds to require any 
     person to perform or facilitate the performance of an 
     abortion.
       Section 204 establishes that the Director of the Bureau of 
     Prisons is obliged to provide escort services to an inmate 
     receiving an abortion outside of a Federal facility, except 
     where this obligation conflicts with the preceding section.
       Section 205 establishes requirements and procedures for 
     transfer proposals.
       Section 206 prohibits the use of funds for transporting 
     prisoners classified as maximum or high security, other than 
     to a facility certified by the BOP as appropriately secure.
       Section 207 prohibits the use of funds for the purchase or 
     rental by Federal prisons of audiovisual or electronic media 
     or equipment, services and materials used primarily for 
     recreational purposes, except for those items and services 
     needed for inmate training, religious, or educational 
     purposes.
       Section 208 requires review by the Deputy Attorney General 
     and the Department Investment Review Board prior to the 
     obligation or expenditure of funds for major information 
     technology projects.
       Section 209 requires the Department to follow reprogramming 
     procedures prior to any deviation from the program amounts 
     specified in this title or the reuse of specified deobligated 
     funds provided in previous years.
       Section 210 prohibits the use of funds for A-76 
     competitions for work performed by employees of BOP or 
     Federal Prison Industries, Inc.
       Section 211 prohibits U.S. Attorneys from holding 
     additional responsibilities that exempt U.S. Attorneys from 
     statutory residency requirements.
       Section 212 permits up to 2 percent of grant funds made 
     available to be used for criminal justice research, 
     evaluation and statistics by the National Institute of 
     Justice and the Bureau of Justice Statistics and designates 
     up to 2 percent of grant funds for training and technical 
     assistance.
       Section 213 provides cost-share waivers for certain grant 
     programs.
       Section 214 waives the requirement that the Attorney 
     General reserve certain funds from amounts provided for 
     offender incarceration.
       Section 215 prohibits funds, other than funds for the 
     national instant criminal background check system established 
     under the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act, from being 
     used to facilitate the transfer of an operable firearm to a 
     known or suspected agent of a drug cartel where law 
     enforcement personnel do not continuously monitor or control 
     such firearm.
       Section 216 places limitations on the obligation of funds 
     from certain DOJ accounts and funding sources.
       Section 217 allows certain funding to be made available for 
     use in Performance Partnership Pilots.
       Section 218 establishes reporting requirements for the 
     Department's Crime Victims Fund, the Working Capital Fund, 
     the Three Percent Fund, and the Asset Forfeiture Fund.
       Section 219 places limitations on the Department's 
     performance of live tissue training.
       Section 220 prohibits the Department from targeting or 
     investigating parents who peacefully protest at school board 
     meetings and are not suspected of engaging in unlawful 
     activity.
       Section 221 prohibits the Department from investigating or 
     prosecuting religious institutions on the basis of their 
     religious beliefs.
       Section 222 provides for a transfer of $25,000,000 from the 
     fund established by section 9006(a) of title 26, United 
     States Code.

                               TITLE III

                                SCIENCE

                Office of Science and Technology Policy

       The agreement includes $7,965,000 for the Office of Science 
     and Technology Policy (OSTP).
       Extreme Weather.--The agreement urges OSTP to ensure that 
     existing government efforts to address extreme weather form a 
     cohesive, lasting strategic approach to manage the risks 
     posed by extreme weather across Federal activities, including 
     financial risks, and risks to agriculture, infrastructure, 
     commerce, and human safety.
       Tribal Nations and Indigenous People.--OSTP shall provide 
     the Committees with a briefing, no later than 120 days after 
     the enactment of this act, regarding efforts of Federal 
     agencies to (1) grow or maintain mutually beneficial 
     relationships with Tribal Nations and Indigenous peoples to 
     understand Indigenous knowledge and (2) incorporate or apply 
     Indigenous knowledge in Federal research, policies, and 
     decision-making.
       National Engineering Biology Research and Development 
     Initiative.--The agreement directs OSTP to establish the 
     Initiative Coordination Office (ICO), to support the National 
     Engineering Biology Research and Development Initiative, as 
     directed under Public Law 117-167. The agreement recommends 
     that ICO represent the variety of stakeholders across the 
     Federal Government, including agencies that promote economic 
     development, sponsor fundamental research, facilitate 
     technology commercialization, focus on safety and security, 
     or engage in workforce training.
       Alternative Protein Research.--The agreement directs OSTP 
     to ensure that alternative protein research is coordinated 
     across the Federal Government to avoid duplication and 
     overlap.
       Open Access.--The agreement directs OSTP to produce an in-
     depth financial analysis of

[[Page S1411]]

     the August 25, 2022, Memorandum to Executive Departments and 
     Agencies titled, ``Ensuring Free, Immediate, and Equitable 
     Access to Federally Funded Research'' including the policy's 
     anticipated impact on Federal research investments, research 
     integrity, and the peer review process, as was previously 
     directed in House Report 117-395, no later than 100 days 
     after the enactment of this act. If OSTP fails to provide the 
     Committees with the report within 100 days, then OSTP must 
     pause implementation of the memorandum until the agency 
     produces the report.

                         National Space Council

       The agreement includes $1,965,000 for the activities of the 
     National Space Council.

             National Aeronautics and Space Administration

       The agreement includes $24,875,000,000 for the National 
     Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

              NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION
                        (In thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                        Program                           Amount ($000)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Science:
  Earth Science........................................       $2,195,000
  Planetary Science....................................        2,716,700
  Astrophysics.........................................        1,530,000
  Heliophysics.........................................          805,000
  Biological and Physical Science......................           87,500
    Total, Science.....................................        7,334,200
Aeronautics............................................          935,000
Space Technology.......................................        1,100,000
Exploration............................................        7,666,200
Space Operations.......................................        4,220,000
Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM)...          143,000
Safety, Security, and Mission Services.................        3,129,000
Construction and Environmental Compliance and                    300,000
 Restoration...........................................
Office of Inspector General............................           47,600
                                                        ================
    Total, NASA........................................      $24,875,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

                                SCIENCE

       The agreement includes $7,334,200,000 for Science and 
     directs NASA to provide funding as described in the table 
     above and text below.
       University Small Satellite Missions.--The agreement 
     supports NASA's collaborative efforts with U.S. colleges and 
     universities to conduct research through small spacecraft 
     missions and provides not less than $30,000,000 for these 
     missions.
       Earth Science.--In lieu of the funds designated in the 
     Senate report for Earth Science, the agreement provides up to 
     the request level for Plankton, Aerosol, Cloud, ocean 
     Ecosystem (PACE), Earth System Explorers, the four Earth 
     System Observatory missions, and Commercial SmallSat Data 
     Acquisition. Further, as recommended in the 2023 Senior 
     Review, NASA is directed to continue supporting the Terra, 
     Aqua, and Aura missions at a level sufficient to provide high 
     quality data to the scientific community.
       Space-Based Wildfire Detection Technologies.--The Senate 
     language is clarified to provide up to the fiscal year 2023 
     enacted level for space-based wildfire detection and warning 
     systems.
       Geosynchronous Littoral Imaging and Monitoring Radiometer 
     (GLIMR).--The Senate language regarding GLIMR is adopted.
       Planetary Science.--The agreement provides the request 
     level for Planetary Defense, including $209,700,000 for the 
     Near Earth Object Surveyor Mission, and up to the fiscal year 
     2023 enacted level for New Frontiers, including not less than 
     $360,000,000 for Dragonfly.
       Mars Sample Return (MSR).--The Senate language on ``Mars 
     Sample Return'' is not adopted. MSR is the highest priority 
     of the 2022 Planetary Science Decadal Survey but there is 
     concern that the expected launch schedule continues to slip. 
     The agreement notes that there has not been consultation with 
     some Members of Congress about NASA's decision to move 
     forward with workforce reductions before a fiscal year 2024 
     bill was enacted and notes concern that NASA's actions have 
     contributed to serious losses in NASA's high-skilled 
     workforce.
       The Independent Review Board did not recommend cancelling 
     MSR, and NASA has convened a MSR Independent Review Board 
     Response Team (MIRT) to determine a revised architecture for 
     this Decadal Survey flagship mission. The agreement directs 
     NASA to report no later than 60 days following completion of 
     the MIRT report on the recommended path forward for MSR, 
     within a balanced Science portfolio. The report should 
     include a year-by-year funding profile for MSR and any 
     necessary reprogramming or transfer requests to support the 
     re-scoped MSR program in fiscal year 2024. The agreement 
     further directs NASA to not engage in further workforce 
     reductions of the MSR program until such report is provided 
     and directs NASA to provide at least 30 days of advance 
     notification of such actions to the Committees. The agreement 
     provides no less than $300,000,000, and up to the President's 
     budget request level, to support the MSR program pursuant to 
     these directives in fiscal year 2024.
       MSR Receiving Facility.--The MSR program is under review 
     following an Independent Review Board report. In addition, 
     the MSR receiving facility requirements are also under review 
     by NASA. Given this, the agreement directs NASA to consider 
     how changes to the scope of the MSR program will impact the 
     needs and qualifications of a MSR receiving facility.
       In lieu of the direction in the Senate report to submit a 
     plan on the MSR facility, the agreement directs NASA to 
     provide the Committees a plan, not later than 60 days after 
     the conclusion of the MSR Independent Review Board Response 
     Team report, outlining the updated MSR receiving facility 
     requirements, including the factors NASA is weighing for the 
     site selection, potential partnering approaches, an expected 
     construction schedule, the estimated cost, and any other 
     criteria that will be used to determine the facility 
     location.
       Small Innovative Missions for Planetary Exploration 
     (SIMPLEx).--The agreement continues support for SIMPLEx and 
     encourages NASA to consider a second SIMPLEx mission and to 
     develop a five-year plan to increase the volume of 
     solicitations in support of the program. NASA shall brief the 
     Committees, no later than September 1, 2025, on a plan for 
     increasing the volume of solicitations.
       Venus Emissivity, Radio Science, InSAR, Topography, and 
     Spectrometry (VERITAS) Mission.--The agreement supports the 
     Discovery Program, including competitively selected missions 
     such as VERITAS. As part of the fiscal year 2025 budget 
     request, the agreement encourages NASA to request sufficient 
     funding to ensure a launch by the end of the decade. Further, 
     no later than 180 days after the enactment of this act, the 
     agreement directs NASA to provide a budget profile and 
     schedule for the VERITAS mission.
       Small Satellite Platforms.--The agreement directs NASA to 
     assess the feasibility of utilizing small satellites for 
     missions of greater complexity and importance, including 
     flagship class objectives in furtherance of decadal science 
     priorities. If feasible, the agreement directs NASA to 
     identify a mission that could be accomplished through this 
     type of architecture, and to report on such findings to the 
     Committees no later than 180 days after the enactment of this 
     act.
       Geostationary Carbon Cycle Observatory (GeoCarb).--The 
     agreement encourages NASA to work with the GeoCarb mission's 
     science team on pre-flight testing and characterization of 
     the instrument upon its delivery to NASA, to store it 
     appropriately, and to develop and execute a plan to obtain a 
     cost-effective launch.
       Habitable Worlds Observatory.--The Senate report language 
     regarding ``Habitable Worlds Observatory'' is adopted, and 
     the agreement provides no less than $10,000,000 for the 
     mission. In addition, the agreement directs NASA to establish 
     a Habitable Worlds Observatory project office at Goddard 
     Space Flight Center to leverage existing expertise in 
     astrophysics and segmented mirror technology.
       Heliophysics.--In lieu of the funds designated within the 
     Senate report for Heliophysics, the agreement provides no 
     less than the fiscal year 2023 enacted level for Heliophysics 
     Research, Space Weather, and Heliophysics Technology. 
     Further, the agreement provides up to the fiscal year 2023 
     enacted level for Solar Terrestrial Probes, including up to 
     $26,000,000 for the Magnetospheric Multiscale mission. The 
     agreement also directs NASA to make awards under the 
     announcement of opportunity for the Dynamic Neutral 
     Atmosphere-Ionosphere Coupling (DYNAMIC) mission.
       Heliophysics Explorers.--The agreement provides no less 
     than $215,000,000 for Heliophysics Explorers to achieve 
     flagship level science through the program. This amount 
     includes no less than the request level for HelioSwarm.
       Geospace Dynamics Constellation (GDC).--Not later than 180 
     days after the enactment of this act, the agreement directs 
     NASA to provide the Committees with a schedule and budget 
     profile to launch the GDC mission by the end of the decade to 
     fulfill the recommendations of the Heliophysics decadal 
     survey through improved understanding of the variability of 
     the space weather environment surrounding Earth.
       Biological and Physical Science.--The Senate report 
     language on ``Biological and Physical Science'' is adopted, 
     and the agreement provides $2,500,000 to establish a 
     consortium including academic institutions with demonstrated 
     expertise within the human health, animal, and plant 
     sciences.


                              AERONAUTICS

       The agreement includes $935,000,000 for Aeronautics.
       Advanced Air Mobility Systems.--The agreement includes up 
     to the request level for the Advanced Air Vehicles Program 
     and the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) National Campaign, 
     including no less than $5,000,000 for safe autonomous flight 
     enabling infrastructure.
       Vertical Lift Research.--The agreement supports NASA's 
     Vertical Lift Research Centers of Excellence (VLRCOE) 
     cooperative agreements to advance fundamental research at 
     universities across the country and directs NASA to continue 
     its work with government agencies, academia, and industry to 
     build and maintain a modeling and simulation environment to 
     analyze various aviation demand scenarios and associated 
     supply chain ecosystem needs. Additionally, the agreement 
     directs NASA to provide a report on these actions to the 
     Committees no later than 180 days after the enactment of this 
     act. In developing this report, NASA is encouraged to consult 
     with government, academia, and industry to identify any 
     policy recommendations.
       Trusted Autonomy-enabled Technologies Flight 
     Demonstrator.--The agreement supports the Integrated Aviation 
     Systems Program and directs NASA to allocate up to 
     $10,000,000 for the continued development and flight testing 
     of technologies necessary to support a trusted, semi-
     autonomous aircraft

[[Page S1412]]

     architecture with aviation safety management system 
     capabilities.
       Electric Air Flight.--The agreement encourages NASA to 
     strengthen its collaborations with the Department of Energy, 
     national laboratories, and universities to overcome energy 
     storage challenges for mobility technologies such as electric 
     air flight including through the Electrified Powertrain 
     Flight Demonstration project.
       Advanced Technologies for Sustainable Aviation.--The Senate 
     language regarding ``Sustainable Aviation'' is adopted. In 
     addition, the agreement encourages NASA to prioritize funding 
     for Advanced Engine and Vehicle Technologies for Sustainable 
     Aviation initiatives, including Electrified Aircraft 
     Propulsion activities, the Hybrid Thermally Efficient Core 
     (HyTEC) project, the Advanced Aircraft Concepts for 
     Environmental Sustainability (AACES) studies, and the 
     advancement of sustainable aviation fuels.
       Hypersonic Technology Program (HTP).--The agreement 
     supports the HTP and encourages NASA to advance hypersonic 
     research and strengthen commercial hypersonic capabilities. 
     The agreement provides up to $15,000,000 to establish the 
     Making Advancements in Commercial Hypersonics (MACH) Program 
     and directs NASA to submit a report, no later than 60 days 
     after the enactment of this act, that details a strategy and 
     efforts to consult and collaborate with the Department of 
     Defense on hypersonic technology. The agreement also provides 
     up to $10,000,000 for collaborative work between industry and 
     academia for carbon/carbon material testing and up to 
     $5,000,000 to develop and mature automation of high-
     temperature ceramic matric composites.
       Revitalization of High-performance Chase Aircraft and 
     Infrastructure.--The agreement directs NASA to provide 
     regular updates to the Committees on its chase aircraft 
     fleet; engage in regular consultations with the Department of 
     Defense on strategies to improve the fleet including through 
     aircraft transfers; and evaluate administrative and 
     legislative steps to facilitate such actions, including 
     through the interagency and budget processes. Additionally, 
     the agreement directs NASA to provide the Committees with a 
     report, no later than 60 days after the enactment of this 
     act, outlining plans to improve the Aeronautics Research 
     Mission Directorate's physical infrastructure, including 
     hangars, runways and taxiways, research facilities, and other 
     structures and equipment.


                            SPACE TECHNOLOGY

       The agreement includes $1,100,000,000 for Space Technology.
       Regional Economic Development.--The Senate language 
     regarding ``Regional Economic Development'' is adopted, and 
     the agreement provides up to $10,000,000 for the Regional 
     Economic Development Initiative.
       Space Nuclear Propulsion Program Office.--The agreement 
     notes the intent of the Space Technology Mission Directorate 
     to establish a Space Nuclear Propulsion Technology Program 
     Office, to coordinate the development and demonstration of 
     Nuclear Thermal Propulsion (NTP) and Nuclear Electric 
     Propulsion (NEP) capabilities. The agreement encourages the 
     Space Technology Mission Directorate to expedite the 
     establishment of this important Program Office.
       Nuclear Thermal Propulsion.--The agreement provides 
     $110,000,000 for NTP, including not less than $10,000,000 to 
     continue to accelerate the development of an operational 
     system with commercial partners as directed in the Senate 
     report. Subsequent NASA budget submissions and future year 
     projections should reflect the urgency that this program's 
     objectives and goals demand over the next 48 months. In 
     addition, NASA is directed to provide a detailed spending 
     plan for NTP as well as a plan for the design of a flight 
     demonstration.
       Nuclear Electric Propulsion.--The agreement includes up to 
     $50,000,000 for NEP to continue efforts toward the 
     development of a high-power nuclear electric propulsion 
     demonstration, of which up to $10,000,000 is for the design 
     of test articles to enable a flight demonstration. The 
     agreement supports the commencement of accelerated 
     development of this technology, consistent with the 
     recommendations of the National Academies of Sciences.
       Lunar Surface Power.--The agreement provides up to 
     $40,000,000 and no less than the fiscal year 2023 enacted 
     level for Lunar Surface Power, including up to $20,000,000 
     for Fission Surface Power. NASA is directed to use Lunar 
     Surface Power demonstration funding for payload development 
     and associated delivery services via the Commercial Lunar 
     Payload Services program.
       On-Orbit Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing-1 (OSAM-
     1).--ln lieu of the Senate report language, the agreement 
     provides $227,000,000 for OSAM-1 to adjust the mission to 
     ensure a 2026 launch within the cost profile assumed in the 
     fiscal year 2024 budget request. Consistent with 
     recommendations by the OSAM-1 Standing Review Board, NASA is 
     directed to reduce testing requirements and make the 
     necessary technical decisions, including potential de-scoping 
     of some non-essential capabilities, to meet these launch and 
     budget requirements. If this is not possible, NASA should 
     initiate another Continuation Review in September 2024. 
     Further, NASA is directed to work with the Department of 
     Defense on a plan for a potential use, as practicable, of 
     OSAM-1 for space mobility capability, and to provide the 
     Committees with the plan not later than 180 days after 
     enactment of this act.
       Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR).--In lieu of 
     Senate direction regarding SBIR, NASA shall continue to 
     fulfill statutory obligations for SBIR funding and place an 
     increased focus on awarding SBIR awards to firms with fewer 
     than 50 employees.
       Flight Opportunities Program.--The agreement includes not 
     less than $27,000,000 for the Flight Opportunities Program, 
     including up to $5,000,000 to support payload development and 
     flight of K-12 and collegiate educational payloads.
       Alternative Propellants and Multimode Propulsion.--The 
     United States is overly reliant on xenon and krypton for in-
     space propulsion which are in limited supply, extremely 
     expensive, and produced in China and Russia. The agreement 
     encourages investments in innovative small spacecraft 
     propulsion to achieve in-flight demonstrations of alternative 
     propellants and turn-key multimode in-space propulsion as 
     soon as practicable, including, as practicable, those that 
     use domestically produced fuel and cathode-less electric 
     propulsion technology.
       Autonomous System Modeling and Simulation.--NASA is 
     commended for its partnerships with educational institutions 
     for the purpose of developing more reliable autonomous 
     capabilities at NASA facilities. The agreement recommends 
     NASA continue to fund these programs.
       Tipping Point Program.--NASA is directed to meet all 
     contractual obligations for the Tipping Point program in 
     fiscal year 2024. In addition, NASA is encouraged to continue 
     funding for capability development that grows in-Earth orbit 
     platform ecosystems.
       Innovative Nanomaterials.--The Senate language regarding 
     ``Innovative Nanomaterials'' is clarified to provide up to 
     $5,000,000 to advance large scale production and use of 
     innovative nanomaterials. In addition, NASA is directed to 
     submit a report to the Committees, no later than 180 days 
     after the enactment of this act, detailing a plan to ensure 
     mission critical systems utilize and leverage carbon nanotube 
     technology.
       Orbital Debris Inspection Mission.--In lieu of the Senate 
     language on ``Orbital Debris Removal'', the agreement 
     provides up to $5,000,000 for the development of an Orbital 
     Debris Inspection mission, in partnership with the private 
     sector, to demonstrate technologies that track, characterize, 
     and inspect multiple objects in space.


                              EXPLORATION

       The agreement includes $7,666,200,000 for Exploration and 
     notes the strong support for the Artemis missions that will 
     establish the first long-term human presence on the Moon, 
     accomplishing the Presidential direction carried in Space 
     Policy Directive-1. In lieu of the amounts provided in the 
     Senate report within Exploration, the agreement provides up 
     to the fiscal year 2023 enacted level for the Orion Multi-
     purpose Crew Vehicle and the Space Launch System (SLS), 
     including up to $600,000,000 for the SLS Block 1B 
     Development.
       Human Landing System (HLS).--The agreement provides up to 
     $1,880,500,000 for the HLS program, including full funding 
     for NASA to meet all contractual obligations for both HLS 
     providers in fiscal year 2024.
       Next Generation Extravehicular Activity (EVA) Spacesuits.--
     The agreement provides up to $379,900,000 for the 
     Extravehicular Activity and Human Surface Mobility program to 
     maintain schedule for the International Space Station and 
     Artemis missions. NASA is encouraged to support competition 
     and redundancy for future Artemis missions by providing the 
     Committees with a plan, including a task order and funding 
     roadmap, to have both EVA spacesuits developed and certified 
     for lunar surface missions in time for the selection of the 
     EVA space suit for the Artemis IV mission.
       Fabrication Laboratory (FabLab) Demonstration.--NASA is 
     encouraged to provide up to $10,000,000 for the FabLab 
     demonstration of metal and electronic manufacturing in space.
       Exploration Review.--In January 2024, NASA announced a 
     delay of the Artemis II and Artemis III missions to September 
     2025 and September 2026, respectively. With all elements 
     necessary to achieve a successful return to the Moon under 
     development, the agreement requests a review by NASA to 
     ensure the current mission schedule can be achieved, while 
     ensuring astronaut safety.
       The agreement directs NASA to provide this review to the 
     Committees no later than 270 days of enactment of this act. 
     The review should focus on NASA's ability to coordinate the 
     schedule and milestones for each Artemis program element to 
     ensure mission success in the current constrained fiscal 
     environment. The review should also include an analysis and 
     evaluation of both current and future workforce requirements 
     and supply chain management needs to ensure the program 
     elements are aligned in a manner that reduces technical, 
     cost, and schedule risk.


                            SPACE OPERATIONS

       The agreement provides $4,220,000,000 for Space Operations, 
     which includes sufficient funding for the continuation of 
     International Space Station and Human Space Flight Operations 
     and directs NASA to maintain its high-skilled workforce for 
     the support of human space flight.
       Payload Processing Capacity.--The Senate language regarding 
     ``Payload Processing Capacity'' is adopted within Space 
     Operations.
       21st Century Launch Complex Program.--The agreement 
     includes up to the fiscal year 2023

[[Page S1413]]

     enacted level for the 21st Century Launch Complex Program.
       Suborbital Crew.--The Senate report language regarding 
     ``Suborbital Crew'' is clarified such that NASA shall 
     continue its Suborbital Crew Office to perform safety 
     assessments to enable NASA personnel to procure flights for 
     civil servants on licensed U.S. suborbital vehicles.
       Small Satellite Cross-Link Systems.--The agreement includes 
     $15,000,000 to align NASA's relay networks to transmit large 
     volumes of science and Earth remote sensing data to users via 
     high-speed (V-band), low latency links. This should provide 
     an expanded educational opportunity for individuals studying 
     SmallSat Cross-Link Systems.


      SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, AND MATHEMATICS ENGAGEMENT

       The agreement includes $143,000,000 for Science, 
     Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Engagement. 
     Of this amount, $58,000,000 is for the Space Grant Program, 
     $26,000,000 is for the Established Program to Stimulate 
     Competitive Research (EPSCoR), and $45,500,000 is for the 
     Minority University Research and Education Project.


                 SAFETY, SECURITY AND MISSION SERVICES

       The agreement includes $3,129,000,000 for Safety, Security 
     and Mission Services (SSMS).
       NASA Community Projects/NASA Special Projects.--Within the 
     appropriation for SSMS, the agreement provides $56,673,000 
     for NASA Community Projects/NASA Special Projects. The 
     agreement directs NASA to provide the funding for the 
     projects listed in the table titled, ``Community Project 
     Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending'' at the end of 
     this joint explanatory statement in the corresponding 
     amounts. The agreement further directs NASA to perform the 
     same level of oversight and due diligence as with any other 
     external partners.


       CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND RESTORATION

       The agreement includes $300,000,000 for Construction and 
     Environmental Compliance and Restoration. Senate language 
     regarding Exploration and Space Operations Construction of 
     Facilities is not adopted.
       Center Commodity Infrastructure.--Within available funds, 
     NASA is encouraged to upgrade pipelines and supporting 
     commodities infrastructure in fiscal year 2024.
       Hypersonic Flight Capability Ground Infrastructure.--The 
     agreement recognizes the planned testing of the low boom 
     flight demonstrator hypersonic vehicle in fiscal year 2024 
     and encourages NASA to identify necessary improvements 
     associated with planned hypersonic test flight and ground 
     infrastructure.
       Wallops PFAS Contamination.--The Senate language is 
     modified to clarify that not later than 180 days after the 
     enactment of this act, NASA shall provide a status report to 
     the Committees regarding the plan by the Town of Chincoteague 
     to identify and acquire suitable property for location and 
     construction of new drinking water wells under administrative 
     control and lease, ownership or easement, of the Town of 
     Chincoteague, and NASA's plan to reimburse the Town of 
     Chincoteague for costs directly associated with the removal 
     and relocation of those drinking water wells subject to 
     enactment of proposed legislative authority.


                      OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL

       The agreement includes $47,600,000 for the Office of 
     Inspector General.


                       ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)

       The agreement allows for certain transfers of funds.
       The agreement includes a provision providing NASA the 
     authority to combine amounts from one or more of its Science, 
     Aeronautics, Space Technology, Exploration, and Space 
     Operations appropriations with amounts from the STEM 
     Engagement appropriation to jointly fund discrete projects or 
     activities, through contracts, grants, or cooperative 
     agreements, that serve these purposes. NASA is directed to 
     provide notification of the Agency's intent to award a 
     contract, grant, or cooperative agreement that would be 
     jointly funded under this authority, no less than 15 days 
     prior to award.
       The agreement permits a transfer of funds into NASA's 
     Working Capital Fund.
       The agreement includes two provisions to extend the period 
     of availability for certain funds.

                      National Science Foundation

       The agreement includes $9,060,000,000 for the National 
     Science Foundation (NSF).


                    RESEARCH AND RELATED ACTIVITIES

       The agreement includes $7,176,500,000 for Research and 
     Related Activities (R&RA). In developing the spending plan, 
     the agreement encourages NSF to equitably distribute funding 
     to support all basic research directorates within R&RA, as 
     well as the Technology, Innovation and Partnerships 
     Directorate.
       Artificial Intelligence (AI).--In lieu of the AI funding 
     level in the Senate report, the agreement supports AI related 
     grants and interdisciplinary research initiatives to maintain 
     leadership in AI. Senate language on ``Transparency, 
     Interpretability, and Explainability of AI'' is adopted, and 
     the agreement reiterates the encouragement for NSF to invest 
     in research to better understand how and why models arrive at 
     their outputs. Further, the agreement supports the National 
     Artificial Intelligence Research Resource pilot to increase 
     access to the compute resources needed for AI research.
       Quantum Science.--In lieu of the funding level in the 
     Senate report, the agreement provides up to the budget 
     request for quantum information science research to support 
     basic interdisciplinary quantum information science and 
     engineering research and encourages NSF to support National 
     Quantum Information Science Research Centers as authorized in 
     section 302 of the National Quantum Initiative Act (Public 
     Law 115-368).
       Astronomy and Astrophysics Decadal Survey Priority 
     Facilities.--The agreement adopts the Senate direction and 
     funding regarding ``Astronomy''. Additionally, the agreement 
     directs NSF to present the U.S. Extremely Large Telescope 
     (USELT) Program to the National Science Board (NSB) at their 
     next meeting for consideration for inclusion in the Major 
     Research Equipment and Facilities Construction (MREFC) 
     account. The agreement strongly encourages the NSB to ensure 
     that the USELT Program includes a two-observatory footprint 
     with a mechanism to guarantee robust community access. The 
     agreement directs NSF to regularly brief the Committees on 
     the status of the USELT program.
       Sustainable Chemistry Research.--The agreement supports the 
     Sustainable Chemistry Basic Research program and encourages 
     NSF to continue coordinating with OSTP to implement 
     provisions in subtitle E of title II of Public Law 116-283. 
     The agreement directs NSF to report, no later than 180 days 
     after the enactment of this act, on its activities for this 
     program.
       Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research.--The 
     agreement provides $250,000,000 for the EPSCoR program and 
     reiterates direction in the Senate report regarding 
     supporting projects in EPSCoR states across all initiatives 
     and centers. Additionally, the agreement encourages NSF to 
     increase investment in statewide research capacity 
     development through the EPSCoR Collaborations for Optimizing 
     Research Ecosystems Research Infrastructure Improvement (E-
     CORE RII) program.
       Regional Innovation Engines (NSF Engines).--In lieu of the 
     funding specified in the Senate report, the agreement 
     supports the NSF Engines and notes the recent award of the 
     first Type-2 projects.
       Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope (DKIST).--The agreement 
     adopts Senate direction regarding DKIST and provides up to 
     the request level for the telescope operations.
       Green Bank Observatory (GBO).--The agreement provides up to 
     the fiscal year 2023 enacted level to support operations and 
     maintenance at GBO through multi-agency plans, or directly 
     through the Foundation.
       Mid-scale Research Infrastructure.--In lieu of the funding 
     level in the Senate report, the agreement supports the Mid-
     scale Research Infrastructure program.
       Immersive Technology.--The agreement encourages NSF to 
     support interdisciplinary research related to immersive 
     technology.
       National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics 
     (NCSES).--The agreement supports the work of the NCSES, and 
     encourages the NCSES to identify, compile, and analyze 
     existing nationwide data and conduct survey research to 
     better understand the national cyber workforce and to support 
     additional NCSES personnel to ensure adequate staffing for 
     this research.
       Reducing Reliance on Chinese-made Plastics.--The agreement 
     encourages NSF to support research exploring domestically 
     grown hemp as a robust plastic alternative to reduce the 
     domestic reliance on Chinese-made plastics and directs NSF to 
     report to the Committees on best practices for facilitating 
     the cost-efficient use of plastic alternatives in government 
     produced or funded materials.
       Wildfire Research.--The agreement encourages NSF to 
     increase support for air quality and wildfire research.
       Arecibo Observatory (AO).--The Senate language regarding 
     the ``Arecibo Observatory'' is adopted. In addition, the 
     agreement encourages NSF to retain the scientific mission of 
     the AO facility.
       Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs).--The agreement supports the 
     work of the Oceans and Human Health program to support 
     research into the human health impacts of HABs in marine 
     coastal regions, the Great Lakes Basin, and freshwater 
     systems. The agreement further encourages research to better 
     understand how the influx of nutrients, including dissolved 
     nitrogen and phosphorous, contribute to HAB outbreaks.
       Dyslexia.--The agreement encourages NSF to support research 
     on learning disabilities, including dyslexia. The agreement 
     recognizes the critical importance of research on the early 
     identification of dyslexia, professional development for 
     teachers and administrators of students with dyslexia, 
     curricula and educational tools needed for children with 
     dyslexia, and implementation and scaling of successful models 
     for dyslexia intervention.
       International Ocean Discovery Program (IODP).--The 
     agreement supports up to the budget request level for IODP 
     and directs NSF to support, at minimum, a full three JOIDES 
     Resolution expeditions in fiscal year 2024. Given the growing 
     threat from China and the national security importance of 
     retaining U.S. leadership in this space, the agreement 
     directs NSF to provide, within 180 days of enactment of this 
     act, a comprehensive plan that provides, at a minimum, 
     timelines, milestones, and funding requirements for the 
     future of U.S. scientific ocean drilling, and NSF's plan to 
     maintain U.S. leadership in scientific ocean drilling and

[[Page S1414]]

     minimize the gap in scientific drilling capabilities.
       Secure Computing Enclaves Pilot Program.--The agreement 
     supports the secure computing enclave pilot program to 
     protect sensitive Federally funded research, as authorized by 
     section 10374 of Public Law 117-167.


          MAJOR RESEARCH EQUIPMENT AND FACILITIES CONSTRUCTION

       The agreement provides $234,000,000 for Major Research 
     Equipment and Facilities Construction to support the Vera C. 
     Rubin Observatory, the High Luminosity-Large Hadron Collider 
     Upgrade, the Antarctic Infrastructure Recapitalization, the 
     Leadership Class Computing Facility, and Mid-scale Research 
     Infrastructure.


                             STEM EDUCATION

       The agreement includes $1,172,000,000 for STEM Education. 
     In lieu of the funding amounts specified in the Senate 
     report, NSF is directed to continue support for STEM 
     Education programs at no less than the fiscal year 2021 
     enacted amounts.
       STEM Workforce.--The agreement supports investments in STEM 
     education in regions of the country that have historically 
     faced challenges, including lower educational attainment and 
     higher rates of poverty, recognizing that STEM education can 
     contribute to the economic development of such regions by 
     fostering a skilled workforce and diversifying the economies 
     of the region. The agreement encourages NSF to support 
     funding for programs that create partnerships between NSF and 
     local community colleges to promote STEM education.
       National STEM Teacher Corps.--The agreement adopts Senate 
     direction and funding under the heading ``National STEM 
     Teacher Corps''.


   CREATING HELPFUL INCENTIVES TO PRODUCE SEMICONDUCTORS (CHIPS) FOR 
                  AMERICA WORKFORCE AND EDUCATION FUND

       Division A of Public Law 117-167 established the CHIPS for 
     America Workforce and Education Fund. The agreement allocates 
     the funds according to the amounts listed in the following 
     table:

 NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION ALLOCATION OF FUNDS: CHIPS ACT FISCAL YEAR
                                  2024
                        (In thousands of dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
             Account--Project and Activity                Amount ($000)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors            $25,000
 (CHIPS) for America Workforce and Education Fund......
Research and Related Activities........................         (12,500)
STEM Education.........................................         (12,500)
                                                        ================
    Total..............................................          $25,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

                 AGENCY OPERATIONS AND AWARD MANAGEMENT

       The agreement includes $448,000,000 for Agency Operations 
     and Award Management.


                  OFFICE OF THE NATIONAL SCIENCE BOARD

       The agreement includes $5,090,000 for the National Science 
     Board.


                      OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL

       The agreement includes $24,410,000 for the Office of 
     Inspector General.


                       ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The agreement includes two administrative provisions. The 
     first establishes thresholds for the transfer of funds. The 
     second provision is regarding notification prior to 
     acquisition or disposal of certain assets.

                                TITLE IV

                            RELATED AGENCIES

                       Commission on Civil Rights


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement includes $14,350,000 for the Commission on 
     Civil Rights.

                Equal Employment Opportunity Commission


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement includes $455,000,000 for the Equal 
     Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
       Use of Advanced Technology.--In addition to the directive 
     in the Senate report under the heading ``Artificial 
     Intelligence and Algorithmic Fairness,'' the agreement 
     directs the EEOC to include in its report to the Committees 
     on instances the EEOC consults with artificial intelligence 
     experts and its plans for the issuance of any technical 
     assistance to employers.

                     International Trade Commission


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement includes $122,000,000 for the International 
     Trade Commission (ITC). The Senate report language is not 
     adopted.
       Litigation Transparency.--The agreement directs the ITC to 
     brief the Committees, within 60 days of the enactment of this 
     act, on investigations undertaken by the ITC regarding real 
     parties in interest, current disclosure requirements, 
     remedial measures available, and any recommendations to 
     address such concerns without overburdening litigants or 
     creating unintended consequences.

                       Legal Services Corporation


               PAYMENT TO THE LEGAL SERVICES CORPORATION

       The agreement includes $560,000,000 for the Legal Services 
     Corporation (LSC).


                        administrative provision

       The bill includes language permitting LSC grantees to 
     operate with boards of directors composed of no less than 33 
     percent attorneys without requiring appointment by bar 
     associations.

                        Marine Mammal Commission


                         salaries and expenses

       The agreement includes $4,500,000 for the Marine Mammal 
     Commission.

            Office of the United States Trade Representative

       The agreement includes a total of $74,000,000 for the 
     Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR). For fiscal 
     year 2024, USTR is directed to continue following the 
     requirements in the joint explanatory statement accompanying 
     Public Law 117-103 under the heading ``Quad Strategic 
     Partnership.''
       Bilateral Trade Discussions.--As USTR continues bilateral 
     trade discussions on behalf of the United States with various 
     countries, including China and India, the agreement 
     encourages USTR to continue to prioritize key U.S. export 
     markets to ensure U.S. exporters are treated fairly. The 
     agreement urges USTR to continue to prioritize fair treatment 
     for American companies and enforcement of all of our trading 
     partners' obligations.
       Section 301 Exclusion Processes.--The agreement encourages 
     USTR to increase transparency and consistency in its section 
     301 exclusion process and to make the process less cumbersome 
     to navigate, especially for small- and medium-sized 
     businesses.


                         salaries and expenses

       The agreement includes $59,000,000 for the salaries and 
     expenses of USTR.


                      trade enforcement trust fund

                     (including transfer of funds)

       The agreement includes $15,000,000, which is to be derived 
     from the Trade Enforcement Trust Fund, for trade enforcement 
     activities and transfers authorized by the Trade Facilitation 
     and Trade Enforcement Act of 2015.

                        State Justice Institute


                         salaries and expenses

       The agreement includes $7,640,000 for the State Justice 
     Institute.

                                TITLE V

                           GENERAL PROVISIONS


             (including transfers and rescissions of funds)

       The agreement includes the following general provisions:
       Section 501 prohibits the use of funds for publicity or 
     propaganda purposes unless expressly authorized by law.
       Section 502 prohibits any appropriation contained in this 
     act from remaining available for obligation beyond the 
     current fiscal year unless expressly provided.
       Section 503 provides that the expenditure of any 
     appropriation contained in this act for any consulting 
     service through procurement contracts shall be limited to 
     those contracts where such expenditures are a matter of 
     public record and available for public inspection, except 
     where otherwise provided under existing law or existing 
     Executive order issued pursuant to existing law.
       Section 504 provides that if any provision of this act or 
     the application of such provision to any person or 
     circumstance shall be held invalid, the remainder of this act 
     and the application of other provisions shall not be 
     affected.
       Section 505 prohibits a reprogramming of funds that: (1) 
     creates or initiates a new program, project, or activity; (2) 
     eliminates a program, project, or activity; (3) increases 
     funds or personnel by any means for any project or activity 
     for which funds have been denied or restricted; (4) relocates 
     an office or employee; (5) reorganizes or renames offices, 
     programs, or activities; (6) contracts out or privatizes any 
     function or activity presently performed by Federal 
     employees; (7) augments funds for existing programs, 
     projects, or activities in excess of $500,000 or 10 percent, 
     whichever is less, or reduces by 10 percent funding for any 
     existing program, project, or activity, or numbers of 
     personnel by 10 percent; or (8) results from any general 
     savings, including savings from a reduction in personnel, 
     which would result in a change in existing programs, 
     projects, or activities as approved by Congress; unless the 
     House and Senate Committees on Appropriations are notified 15 
     days in advance of such reprogramming of funds.
       Section 506 provides that if it is determined that any 
     person intentionally affixes a ``Made in America'' label to 
     any product that was not made in America that person shall 
     not be eligible to receive any contract or subcontract with 
     funds made available in this act. The section further 
     provides that to the extent practicable, with respect to 
     purchases of promotional items, funds made available under 
     this act shall be used to purchase items manufactured, 
     produced, or assembled in the United States or its 
     territories or possessions.
       Section 507 requires quarterly reporting to Congress on the 
     status of balances of appropriations.
       Section 508 provides that any costs incurred by a 
     department or agency funded under this act resulting from, or 
     to prevent, personnel actions taken in response to funding 
     reductions in this act, or, for the Department of Commerce, 
     from actions taken for the care and protection of loan 
     collateral or grant property, shall be absorbed within the 
     budgetary resources available to the department or agency, 
     and provides transfer authority between appropriation 
     accounts to carry out this provision, subject to 
     reprogramming procedures.
       Section 509 prohibits funds made available in this act from 
     being used to promote the

[[Page S1415]]

     sale or export of tobacco or tobacco products or to seek the 
     reduction or removal of foreign restrictions on the marketing 
     of tobacco products, except for restrictions which are not 
     applied equally to all tobacco or tobacco products of the 
     same type. This provision is not intended to impact routine 
     international trade services to all U.S. citizens, including 
     the processing of applications to establish foreign trade 
     zones.
       Section 510 stipulates the obligations of certain receipts 
     deposited into the Crime Victims Fund.
       Section 511 prohibits the use of DOJ funds for programs 
     that discriminate against or denigrate the religious or moral 
     beliefs of students participating in such programs.
       Section 512 prohibits the transfer of funds in this 
     agreement to any department, agency, or instrumentality of 
     the United States Government, except for transfers made by, 
     or pursuant to authorities provided in, this agreement or any 
     other appropriations act.
       Section 513 requires certain timetables of audits performed 
     by Inspectors General of the Departments of Commerce and 
     Justice, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, 
     the National Science Foundation and the Legal Services 
     Corporation and sets limits and restrictions on the awarding 
     and use of grants or contracts funded by amounts appropriated 
     by this act.
       Section 514 prohibits funds for acquisition of certain 
     information systems unless the acquiring department or agency 
     has reviewed and assessed certain risks. Any acquisition of 
     such an information system is contingent upon the development 
     of a risk mitigation strategy and a determination that the 
     acquisition is in the national interest. Each department or 
     agency covered under section 514 shall submit a quarterly 
     report to the Committees on Appropriations describing reviews 
     and assessments of risk made pursuant to this section and any 
     associated findings or determinations.
       Section 515 prohibits the use of funds in this act to 
     support or justify the use of torture by any official or 
     contract employee of the United States Government.
       Section 516 prohibits the use of funds to include certain 
     language in trade agreements.
       Section 517 prohibits the use of funds in this act to 
     authorize or issue a National Security Letter (NSL) in 
     contravention of certain laws authorizing the FBI to issue 
     NSLs.
       Section 518 requires congressional notification for any 
     project within the Departments of Commerce or Justice, the 
     National Science Foundation, or the National Aeronautics and 
     Space Administration totaling more than $75,000,000 that has 
     cost increases of 10 percent or more.
       Section 519 deems funds for intelligence or intelligence-
     related activities as authorized by the Congress until the 
     enactment of the Intelligence Authorization Act for fiscal 
     year 2024.
       Section 520 prohibits contracts or grant awards in excess 
     of $5,000,000 unless the prospective contractor or grantee 
     certifies that the organization has filed all Federal tax 
     returns, has not been convicted of a criminal offense under 
     the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, and has no unpaid Federal 
     tax assessment.


                             (rescissions)

       Section 521 provides for rescissions of unobligated 
     balances. Subsection (d) requires the Departments of Commerce 
     and Justice to submit a report on the amount of each 
     rescission. These reports shall include the distribution of 
     such rescissions among decision units, or, in the case of 
     rescissions from grant accounts, the distribution of such 
     rescissions among specific grant programs, and whether such 
     rescissions were taken from recoveries and deobligations, or 
     from funds that were never obligated.
       Section 522 prohibits the use of funds in this act for the 
     purchase of first class or premium air travel in 
     contravention of the Code of Federal Regulations.
       Section 523 prohibits the use of funds to pay for the 
     attendance of more than 50 department or agency employees, 
     who are stationed in the United States, at any single 
     conference outside the United States, unless the conference 
     is: (1) a law enforcement training or operational event where 
     the majority of Federal attendees are law enforcement 
     personnel stationed outside the United States; (2) a 
     scientific conference for which the department or agency head 
     has notified the House and Senate Committees on 
     Appropriations that such attendance is in the national 
     interest, along with the basis for such determination.
       Section 524 requires any department, agency, or 
     instrumentality of the United States Government receiving 
     funds appropriated under this act to track and report on 
     undisbursed balances in expired grant accounts.
       Section 525 requires, when practicable, the use of funds in 
     this act to purchase light bulbs that have the ``Energy 
     Star'' or ``Federal Energy Management Program'' designation.
       Section 526 prohibits the use of funds by NASA, OSTP, or 
     the National Space Council (NSC) to engage in bilateral 
     activities with China or a Chinese-owned company or 
     effectuate the hosting of official Chinese visitors at 
     certain facilities unless the activities are authorized by 
     subsequent legislation or NASA, OSTP, or NSC have made a 
     certification pursuant to subsections (c) and (d) of this 
     section.
       Section 527 prohibits the use of funds to establish or 
     maintain a computer network that does not block pornography, 
     except for law enforcement and victim assistance purposes.
       Section 528 requires the departments and agencies funded in 
     this act to submit spending plans.
       Section 529 prohibits funds 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. The heads of executive branch departments, 
     agencies, boards, and commissions funded by this act are 
     directed to require that all contracts within their purview 
     that provide award fees link such fees to successful 
     acquisition outcomes, specifying the terms of cost, schedule, 
     and performance.
       Section 530 prohibits the use of funds by DOJ or DEA in 
     contravention of a certain section of the Agricultural Act of 
     2014.
       Section 531 prohibits DOJ from preventing certain states 
     from implementing state laws regarding the use of medical 
     marijuana.
       Section 532 requires quarterly reports from the Department 
     of Commerce, the National Aeronautics and Space 
     Administration, and the National Science Foundation of travel 
     to China.
       Section 533 requires 10 percent of the funds for certain 
     programs be allocated for assistance in persistent poverty 
     counties.
       Section 534 prohibits the use of funds in this act to 
     require certain export licenses.
       Section 535 prohibits the use of funds in this act to deny 
     certain import applications regarding ``curios or relics'' 
     firearms, parts, or ammunition.
       Section 536 prohibits funds from being used to deny the 
     importation of shotgun models if no application for the 
     importation of such models, in the same configuration, had 
     been denied prior to January 1, 2011, on the basis that the 
     shotgun was not particularly suitable for or readily 
     adaptable to sporting purposes.
       Section 537 prohibits the use of funds to implement the 
     Arms Trade Treaty until the Senate approves a resolution of 
     ratification for the Treaty.
       Section 538 includes language regarding detainees held at 
     Guantanamo Bay.
       Section 539 includes language regarding facilities for 
     housing detainees held at Guantanamo Bay.
       Section 540 extends the availability of certain funds.
       Section 541 provides that the Department of Commerce and 
     FBI may utilize funding to provide payments pursuant to 
     section 901(i)(2) of title IX of division J of the Further 
     Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2020.
       Section 542 is a new provision regarding administrative 
     resources for Department of Commerce broadband programs.
       Section 543 prohibits the use of funds made available by 
     this act to move a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and 
     Explosives facility.
       Section 544 amends section 1001 of title X of division FF 
     of Public Law 116-260.
       Section 545 makes amendments to the Trafficking Victims 
     Protection Act of 2000.
       Section 546 sets certain requirements for the allocations 
     of funds related to the CHIPS Act of 2022 (Public Law 117-
     167).


   creating helpful incentives to produce semiconducters (chips) for 
                              america fund

       Division A of Public Law 117-167 established the CHIPS for 
     America Fund. The agreement allocates the funds according to 
     the amounts listed in the following table.

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE ALLOCATION OF NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF STANDARDS AND
              TECHNOLOGY FUNDS: CHIPS ACT FISCAL YEAR 2024
                        [In thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
             Account--Project and Activity                Amount ($000)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Section 9902:
  Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors       $5,000,000
   (CHIPS) for America Fund............................
    Secure Enclave.....................................      (1,500,000)
    Administrative Expenses............................        (100,000)
    Office of the Inspector General, Salaries and                (3,900)
     Expenses..........................................
                                                        ================
    Total, Section 9902................................       $5,000,000
Section 9906:
  Industrial Technology Services.......................       $1,245,000
    National Semiconductor Technology Center...........      (1,100,000)
    Advanced Packaging Manufacturing Program...........         (95,000)
    Manufacturing USA Institute........................         (50,000)
  Scientific and Technology Research and Services......           55,000
    NIST Metrology Program.............................         (29,000)
    Administrative Expenses............................         (26,000)
    Office of the Inspector General, Salaries and                (1,100)
     Expenses..........................................
                                                        ================
    Total, Section 9906................................       $1,300,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------


DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE ALLOCATION OF NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF STANDARDS AND
              TECHNOLOGY FUNDS: CHIPS ACT FISCAL YEAR 2025
                        [In thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
             Account--Project and Activity                Amount ($000)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Section 9902:
  Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors       $1,500,000
   (CHIPS) for America Fund............................
    Secure Enclave.....................................      (1,500,000)
------------------------------------------------------------------------


DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE ALLOCATION OF NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF STANDARDS AND
              TECHNOLOGY FUNDS: CHIPS ACT FISCAL YEAR 2026
                        [In thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
             Account--Project and Activity                Amount ($000)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Section 9902:
  Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors         $500,000
   (CHIPS) for America Fund............................
    Secure Enclave.....................................        (500,000)
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Periodic Briefings.--Beginning in June, and quarterly 
     thereafter, the Department of Commerce, Department of Defense 
     and the

[[Page S1416]]

     Office of the Director of National Intelligence, shall 
     provide briefings to the congressional defense and 
     intelligence committees, the Senate Committee on Commerce, 
     Science, and Transportation, the House Energy and Commerce 
     Committee, the House Committee on Science, Space, and 
     Technology, the majority leader of the Senate, the minority 
     leader of the Senate, the Speaker of the House of 
     Representatives, and the minority leader of the House of 
     Representatives on Secure Enclave. Such briefings shall 
     include updates on cost, schedule and performance and any 
     other matters deemed appropriate by the congressional 
     oversight committees listed above.

   Disclosure of Earmarks and Congressionaly 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 D--ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT AND RELATED AGENCIES 
                        APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2024

       The following statement to the House of Representatives and 
     the Senate is submitted in explanation of the agreed upon Act 
     making appropriations for energy and water development for 
     the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024, and for other 
     purposes.
       The explanatory statement accompanying this division is 
     approved and indicates congressional intent. Unless otherwise 
     noted, the language set forth in House Report 118-126 and 
     Senate Report 118-72 carries the same weight as the 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. Additionally, 
     where this explanatory statement states that the ``agreement 
     only includes'' or ``the following is the only'' direction, 
     any direction included in the House or Senate report on that 
     matter shall be considered as replaced with the direction 
     provided within this explanatory statement. In cases where 
     the House, the Senate, or this explanatory statement has 
     directed a briefing or the submission of a report, such 
     briefing or report is to be submitted to the Committees on 
     Appropriations of both Houses of Congress, hereinafter 
     referred to as the Committees. House or Senate reporting 
     requirements with deadlines prior to or within 15 days of 
     enactment of this Act shall be submitted not later than 60 
     days after enactment of this Act. All other reporting 
     deadlines not changed by this explanatory statement are to be 
     met.
       Funds for the individual programs and activities within the 
     accounts in this Act are displayed in the detailed table at 
     the end of the explanatory statement for this Act. Funding 
     levels that are not displayed in the detailed table are 
     identified in this explanatory statement.
       In fiscal year 2024, for purposes of the Balanced Budget 
     and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Public Law 99-
     177), the following information provides the definition of 
     the term ``program, project, or activity'' for departments 
     and agencies under the jurisdiction of the Energy and Water 
     Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. The term 
     ``program, project, or activity'' shall include the most 
     specific level of budget items identified in the Energy and 
     Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 
     2024 and the explanatory statement accompanying this Act.

                   TITLE I--CORPS OF ENGINEERS--CIVIL

                         DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY

                       Corps of Engineers--Civil

       The summary tables included in this title set forth the 
     dispositions with respect to the individual appropriations, 
     projects, and activities of the Corps of Engineers (Corps). 
     Additional items of this Act are discussed below.
       Advanced Funds Agreements.--The agreement reiterates Senate 
     direction.
       Beneficial Use of Dredged Material.--The agreement 
     reiterates Senate direction.
       Continuing Contracts.--The agreement reiterates House and 
     Senate direction.
       Invasive Carp.--Congress has provided consistent funding to 
     develop the program authorized in section 509 the Water 
     Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2020 and is frustrated 
     with the lack of progress. The Corps is expected to finalize 
     this program in fiscal year 2024. The agreement reiterates 
     House and Senate direction with respect to this program and 
     efforts to prevent invasive carp from reaching the Great 
     Lakes.
       Program Delivery.--The agreement reiterates House 
     direction.
       Reporting Requirement.--The agreement reiterates Senate 
     direction.

                           Additional Funding

       In lieu of all House and Senate direction--under any 
     heading--regarding additional funding, new starts, and the 
     fiscal year 2024 work plan, the Corps shall follow the 
     direction included in this explanatory statement.
       The executive branch retains discretion over project-
     specific allocation decisions, subject to only the direction 
     here and under the heading ``Additional Funding'' or 
     ``Additional Funding for Ongoing Work'' within each of the 
     Investigations, Construction, Mississippi River and 
     Tributaries, and Operation and Maintenance accounts. The 
     Administration is reminded that these funds are in addition 
     to the budget request, and Administration budget metrics 
     shall not be a reason to disqualify a study or project from 
     being funded. A study or project may not be excluded from 
     evaluation for funding due to being ``inconsistent with 
     Administration policy.''
       The agreement reiterates House direction regarding 
     voluntary funding in excess of legally required cost shares.
       It is expected that all of the additional funding provided 
     will be allocated to specific programs, projects, or 
     activities, and the allocation process shall favor the 
     obligation, rather than expenditure, of funds. Additionally, 
     the Administration shall consider the extent to which the 
     Corps is able to obligate funds as it allocates the 
     additional funding. The Corps shall evaluate all studies and 
     projects only within accounts and categories consistent with 
     previous congressional funding.
       A project or study shall be eligible for additional funding 
     within the Investigations, Construction, and Mississippi 
     River and Tributaries accounts if: (1) it has received 
     funding, other than through a reprogramming, in at least one 
     of the previous three fiscal years; (2) it was previously 
     funded and could reach a significant milestone, complete a 
     discrete element of work, or produce significant outputs in 
     fiscal year 2024; or (3) as appropriate, it is selected as 
     one of the new starts allowed in accordance with this Act and 
     the additional direction provided below. None of the 
     additional funding in any account may be used for any item 
     where funding was specifically denied or for projects in the 
     Continuing Authorities Program (CAP). Funds shall be 
     allocated consistent with statutory cost share requirements. 
     The agreement reiterates Senate direction regarding 
     allocating funds to projects consistent with categories and 
     subcategories of Additional Funding provided.
       Work Plan.--The Corps is directed to provide to the 
     Committees not later than 60 days after enactment of this Act 
     a work plan consistent with House and Senate direction 
     regarding what information the work plan shall include. Such 
     work plan shall also include a delineation of funds that were 
     made available from Public Law 117-58, and in what amounts, 
     to projects listed in the table titled ``Corps of Engineers--
     Construction.'' The agreement reiterates Senate direction 
     with respect to apportioning funding for Congressionally 
     Directed Spending. The Corps is directed to include with the 
     work plan and future budget requests a list of studies and 
     projects with adjusted cost share using the definition issued 
     pursuant to section 160 of WRDA 2020 and the applicable cost 
     share.
       New Starts.--In addition to individual new starts 
     specifically identified in this Act, the agreement includes 
     three additional new starts in Investigations and one in 
     Construction. The three new starts in Investigations shall be 
     for flood and storm damage reduction studies that were 
     authorized in WRDA 2022 and are in states that had a Federal 
     Disaster Emergency declared in 2022. The new construction 
     start shall be for flood and storm damage reduction. No 
     further additional new starts are provided for in this Act.
       The Corps is directed to notify the Committees at least 
     seven days prior to execution of an agreement for 
     construction of any project except environmental 
     infrastructure projects and projects under the CAP. Neither 
     study nor construction activities related to individual 
     projects authorized under section 1037 of Water Resources 
     Reform and Development Act of 2014 shall require a new start 
     or new investment decision; these activities shall be 
     considered ongoing work. No new start or new investment 
     decision shall be required when moving from feasibility to 
     preconstruction, engineering, and design (PED). The 
     initiation of construction of an individually authorized 
     project funded within a programmatic line item may not 
     require a new start designation provided that some amount of 
     construction funding under such programmatic line item was 
     appropriated and expended during the previous fiscal year. No 
     new start or new investment decision shall be required to 
     initiate work on a separable element of a project when 
     construction of one or more separable elements of that 
     project was initiated previously, it shall be considered 
     ongoing work. A new construction start shall not be required 
     for work undertaken to correct a design deficiency on an 
     existing federal project, it shall be considered ongoing 
     work.
       The Corps is directed to propose a single group of new 
     starts as a part of the work plan. The Corps may not change 
     or substitute the new starts selected once the work plan has 
     been provided to the Committees. The Administration is 
     reminded that only new starts with a willing and able non-
     federal sponsor should be included in the work plan.


                             investigations

                    (including rescission of funds)

       The agreement includes $142,990,000 for Investigations. The 
     agreement also includes a rescission of $11,413,000 of 
     unused, previously appropriated funds, for a net 
     appropriation of $131,577,000.
       The allocation for studies, projects and activities within 
     the Investigations account is shown in the following table:

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       Updated Capabilities.--The agreement adjusts some project-
     specific allocations downward based on updated technical 
     information from the Corps.
       Additional Funding.--The Corps is expected to allocate the 
     additional funding provided in this account primarily to 
     specific feasibility and PED phases, rather than to remaining 
     items as has been the case in previous work plans. The Corps 
     shall include appropriate funding for studies initiated in 
     fiscal year 2023.
       Of the additional funding provided in the PED column in the 
     table in this account, $7,000,000 shall be for Flood Risk 
     Management PED activities.
       The agreement reiterates House and Senate direction 
     regarding priorities to be considered.
       Arkansas Red River Chloride.--For the third consecutive 
     year, the agreement rejects the budget request proposal to 
     fund a disposition study for the Arkansas Red River Chloride 
     Control project. The Corps is reminded that a project for 
     which the agreement has explicitly denied funding shall not 
     continue during the period covered by the most recently 
     enacted appropriations bill or a subsequent continuing 
     resolution.
       Buffalo Bayou Tributaries and Resiliency Study.--The Corps 
     is directed to provide not later than 60 days after enactment 
     of this Act a briefing to the Committees on a final plan, 
     cost estimate, and schedule for completion of the study.
       Planning Support Program.--The agreement includes no 
     direction.
       Preconstruction, Engineering, and Design (PED).--The 
     agreement recognizes a fundamental flaw with the current 
     policies the Corps uses to plan and design projects. 
     Specifically, the Corps shifts risk to PED to comply with 
     study duration and cost metrics. At the same time water 
     resources development projects are increasingly complex and 
     more frequently multi-billion dollar projects. The 
     combination of these two phenomena produces significant cost 
     inaccuracies and uncertainties that are not discovered nor 
     addressed until after a project is authorized, or worse, 
     after construction begins. The budget recommendations fail to 
     address or acknowledge this flaw because sufficient PED has 
     not been completed to reduce risk before construction. 
     Rather, the willingness to advance Chief's reports and move 
     projects into construction with minimal design in order to 
     keep an artificial cap on the Investigations account 
     exacerbates increased costs over the duration of a 
     construction project. The Corps is expected to make changes 
     that address these challenges in order for non-federal 
     sponsors, the Corps, and the Committees to have more clarity 
     of project scope, challenges, and cost estimates before 
     construction commences.
       The Corps is directed to provide to the Committees not 
     later than 60 days after enactment of this Act a briefing on 
     technical information related to study and project execution 
     specific to PED. The briefing shall address the appropriate 
     level of design during feasibility studies, the appropriate 
     level of PED required before a construction new start, and 
     how cost estimate classifications may best be adjusted for 
     changing environments. Finally, the briefing should address 
     any system or database challenges that could hinder execution 
     of these necessary changes.
       Project Cost Updates.--Corps policy requires regular 
     updates of the economics and costs of authorized projects 
     that have not yet received construction funds, but such 
     updates are not feasible without dedicated funds. The 
     agreement provides funding for updates to authorized projects 
     that have not received construction funds where those updates 
     are necessary to recertify project costs or verify economic 
     justification. The Corps is encouraged to recommend funding 
     in future budget submissions for these activities.
       Research and Development.--The agreement provides 
     $4,000,000 to continue the modernization of existing Corps 
     coastal and hydraulics models.
       Research and Development, Biopolymers.--The agreement 
     provides $6,000,000 to complete this effort.
       Research and Development, Flood and Coastal Systems.--The 
     agreement provides $5,000,000 to complete efforts to research 
     and develop automated assessment and inspection of flood 
     control systems, for the purpose of identifying levee 
     deficiencies.
       Research and Development, Modeling.--The agreement funds 
     this effort in the Operation and Maintenance account, under 
     the heading ``Regional Sediment Management, Geophysical 
     Modeling.''
       Research and Development, Urban Flood Damage Reduction.--
     The agreement funds this effort in the Operation and 
     Maintenance account, under the heading ``Water Operations 
     Technical Support, Urban Flood Damage Reduction and Stream 
     Restoration in Arid Regions.''


                              CONSTRUCTION

                    (INCLUDING RESCISSION OF FUNDS)

       The agreement includes $1,854,688,000 for Construction. The 
     agreement also includes a rescission of $9,678,000 of unused, 
     previously appropriated funds, for a net appropriation of 
     $1,845,010,000. The agreement also includes $1,434,500,000 
     from the use of prior-year balances from Public Law 117-58. 
     Of the funds made available from Public Law 117-58, not less 
     than $113,537,000 shall be allocated to inland navigation 
     purpose construction projects named in the following table.
       The allocation for projects and activities within the 
     Construction account is shown in the following table:

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       Updated Capabilities.--The agreement adjusts some project-
     specific allocations downward based on updated technical 
     information from the Corps.
       Additional Funding.--Of the additional funding provided in 
     this account for flood and storm damage reduction, the Corps 
     shall allocate not less than $30,000,000 to additional 
     nonstructural flood control projects and continue 
     construction of projects that principally address drainage in 
     urban areas, of which not less than $20,000,000 shall be for 
     projects that principally include improvements to rainfall 
     drainage systems that address flood damages.
       Of the additional funding provided in this account, the 
     Corps shall allocate not less than $20,000,000 to projects 
     with riverfront development components.
       Of the additional funding for other authorized project 
     purposes and environmental restoration or compliance, the 
     Corps shall allocate not less than $20,000,000 for execution 
     of comprehensive restoration plans developed by the Corps for 
     major bodies of water. The Corps is reminded that shore 
     protection projects are eligible to compete for additional 
     funding for flood and storm damage reduction.
       Of the additional funding provided for Environmental 
     Infrastructure, not less than $11,000,000 shall be for a 
     multi-state environmental infrastructure program.
       When allocating the additional funding provided in this 
     account, the Corps is encouraged to evaluate authorized 
     reimbursements in the same manner as if the projects were 
     being evaluated for new or ongoing construction. The 
     agreement reiterates House and Senate direction regarding 
     priorities to be considered.
       Aquatic Plant Control Program.--The agreement includes 
     additional funding of $9,000,000 for watercraft inspection 
     stations and related monitoring, consistent with Senate 
     direction; $1,000,000 for activities related to monitoring, 
     surveying and control of hydrilla verticillate and flowering 
     rush; $5,000,000 for nationwide research; and $5,000,000 to 
     address infestations of hydrilla in Lake Champlain and the 
     Connecticut River basins. The agreement notes that there is 
     no additional capability for activities authorized pursuant 
     to section 509 of WRDA 2020; the agreement expects swift 
     progress on these efforts using existing funds.
       Aquatic Plant Control Program, Mississippi River Basin.--
     The agreement includes $150,000 consistent with Senate 
     direction.
       Charleston Harbor.--The funding provided is for 
     reimbursement of the advanced funds provided by the non-
     federal sponsor.
       Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal Dispersal Barrier, 
     Illinois.--The agreement reiterates Senate direction.
       Environmental Infrastructure.--Funding is provided under 
     the heading ``Additional Funding.''
       Levisa and Tug Forks and Upper Cumberland River, VA, WV, & 
     KY.--The funding is provided to initiate the Detailed Project 
     Report for McDowell County, WV.
       Prior-year Balances (CAP).--Prior-year balances shall be 
     derived from unobligated, previously appropriated CAP funds.
       Real Estate Requirements for Shore Protection Projects.--
     The agreement notes ongoing obstacles to carrying out 
     authorized shore protection projects in the South Atlantic 
     Division. The lack of progress is concerning. The Corps is 
     directed to review its existing real estate policies that 
     were developed to ensure compliance with WRDA 1986. Not later 
     than 90 days after enactment of this Act the Corps shall 
     provide to the appropriate committees of Congress a briefing 
     that recommends alternatives to existing real estate 
     requirements that would enable expeditious construction of 
     delayed projects and incorporates the views of non-federal 
     sponsors.


                   MISSISSIPPI RIVER AND TRIBUTARIES

                    (INCLUDING RESCISSION OF FUNDS)

       The agreement includes $368,037,000 for Mississippi River 
     and Tributaries. The agreement also includes a rescission of 
     $1,110,000 of unused, previously appropriated funds, for a 
     net appropriation of $366,927,000.
       The allocation for projects and activities within the 
     Mississippi River and Tributaries account is shown in the 
     following table:

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       Additional Funding for Ongoing Work.--When allocating the 
     additional funding provided in this account, the Corps shall 
     consider giving priority to completing or accelerating 
     ongoing work that will enhance the nation's economic 
     development, job growth, and international competitiveness or 
     for studies or projects located in areas that have suffered 
     recent natural disasters. While this funding is shown under 
     remaining items, the Corps shall use these funds in 
     Investigations, Construction, and Operation and Maintenance, 
     as applicable. When allocating additional funds recommended 
     in this account, the Corps is directed to consider 
     cooperative projects addressing watershed erosion, 
     sedimentation, flooding, and environmental degradation.


                       OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE

                    (INCLUDING RESCISSION OF FUNDS)

       The agreement includes $5,552,816,000 for Operation and-
     Maintenance. The agreement also includes a rescission of 
     $30,000 of unused, previously appropriated funds, for a net 
     appropriation of $5,552,786,000.
       The allocation for projects and activities within the 
     Operation and Maintenance account is shown in the following 
     table:

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       Updated Capabilities.--The agreement adjusts some project-
     specific allocations downward based on updated technical 
     information from the Corps.
       Additional Funding for Ongoing Work.--The agreement 
     reiterates House and Senate direction regarding priorities to 
     be considered.
       Of the additional funding provided in this account for 
     navigation maintenance, the Corps shall allocate not less 
     than $350,000 for the purpose of completing the report 
     required in section 8205 of WRDA 2022. It is expected that 
     completion of this report will enable Corps Districts to 
     readily develop work packages for Harbor Maintenance Trust 
     Fund (HMTF)-eligible work that reflects maintenance to 
     authorized dimensions instead of historical maintenance 
     levels.
       Of the additional funding provided in this account for 
     other authorized project purposes, $200,000 shall be to 
     provide a report consistent with the direction under the 
     heading ``Levee Rehabilitation Projects in the Northwestern 
     Division.''
       Of the additional funding provided in this account for 
     other authorized project purposes, $2,600,000 shall be for 
     cooperation and coordination with the Great Lakes States to 
     develop sediment transport models for Great Lakes tributaries 
     that discharge to federal navigation channels and for water 
     control manual updates for non-Corps owned high hazard dams 
     where: (1) the Corps has a responsibility for flood control 
     operations under section 7 of the Flood Control Act of 1944; 
     (2) the dam requires coordination of water releases with one 
     or more other high-hazard dams for flood control purposes; 
     and (3) the dam owner is actively investigating the 
     feasibility of applying forecast-informed reservoir 
     operations.
       The Corps shall allocate the additional funding provided in 
     this account consistent with the direction under the headings 
     ``Donor & Energy Transfer Ports'' and ``Harbor Maintenance 
     Trust Fund Targets.''
       Aquatic Nuisance Control Research Program.--The agreement 
     provides $5,000,000 to supplement activities related to 
     harmful algal bloom research and control, consistent with 
     House direction; $3,500,000 to develop next generation 
     ecological models, consistent with House and Senate 
     direction; $5,000,000 to continue work on the Harmful Algal 
     Bloom Demonstration Program, as authorized by WRDA of 2020; 
     and $4,000,000 to work with university partners, consistent 
     with Senate direction.
       Asset Management/Facilities and Equipment Maintenance 
     (FEM).--The agreement provides $2,000,000 to continue 
     research on novel approaches to repair and maintenance 
     practices that will increase civil infrastructure 
     intelligence and resilience.
       Asset Management/FEM, Structural Health Monitoring.--The 
     agreement includes $5,000,000 to support the structural 
     health monitoring program to facilitate research to maximize 
     operations, enhance efficiency, and protect asset life 
     through catastrophic failure mitigation.
       Coastal Inlets Research Program.--The agreement includes 
     $14,200,000 in addition to the budget request for the Corps-
     led, multi-university effort to identify engineering 
     frameworks to address coastal resilience needs; to develop 
     adaptive pathways that lead to coastal resilience; for 
     efforts that measure the coastal forces that lead to 
     infrastructure damage and erosion during extreme storm 
     events; to improve coupling of terrestrial and coastal 
     models; and to continue work with the National Oceanic and 
     Atmospheric Administration's National Water Center on 
     protecting the nation's water resources.
       Coastal Ocean Data System (CODS).--The agreement includes 
     $9,800,000 to continue CODS base program activities, of which 
     not less than $6,000,000 for long-term coastal wave and 
     coastal sediment observations, research, and data products 
     that support sustainable coastal and navigation projects.
       Donor & Energy Transfer Ports.--The agreement directs the 
     Corps to allocate any work plan HMTF funding for Donor and 
     Energy Transfer Ports consistent with section 102 and section 
     104 of WRDA 2020. The Corps is reminded that Donor and Energy 
     Transfer Ports are eligible to receive additional funding 
     recommended in the deep-draft harbor and channel funding line 
     for expanded uses.
       Engineering With Nature.--The agreement includes $5,000,000 
     to support ongoing research with university partners and 
     $5,000,000 to support research, development, and design of 
     natural infrastructure solutions for the nation's bays and 
     estuaries, consistent with House and Senate direction, as 
     applicable.
       Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund Targets.--The agreement 
     expresses disappointment that the Corps has twice failed to 
     recommend HMTF work to meet the section 102 WRDA 2020 targets 
     and encourages the Corps to include full funding in future 
     budget submissions. Donor and energy transfer ports are 
     critical to the national supply chain and fundamental to 
     maintaining international competitiveness. Stable HMTF 
     funding for expanded uses can assist with capital 
     improvements at these critical ports, which already pay a 
     significant share of the collected tax. The agreement expects 
     the Corps to meet the donor and energy target in the fiscal 
     year 2024 work plan. In conjunction with the fiscal year 2024 
     work plan, the Corps is directed to provide to the Committees 
     a list of all projects with HMTF funding amounts for each 
     section 102 WRDA target, including expanded uses.
       Inland Water Navigation Charts.--The agreement reiterates 
     Senate direction.
       Lake Sidney Lanier, GA.--The agreement notes local 
     frustration stemming from the threat of closing campgrounds 
     and other recreational services in the vicinity of Lake 
     Lanier at the start of peak recreation season. The Corps is 
     expected to partner and collaborate with local communities 
     and stakeholders to find creative opportunities to maximize 
     recreation opportunities.
       Levee Safety.--The agreement includes $1,000,000 to meet 
     the requirements of section 131 of WRDA 2020. The agreement 
     notes that the Corps has paused the formation of the Levee 
     Safety Committee to better incorporate the views of levee 
     sponsors. The Corps is directed to provide a briefing to the 
     Committees at least 30 days prior to resuming these efforts.
       Levee Rehabilitation Projects in the Northwestern 
     Division.--The agreement reiterates Senate direction. Funding 
     for this work in the amount of $200,000 is provided under the 
     heading ``Additional Funding for Ongoing Work''.
       Monitoring of Completed Navigation Projects, Fisheries.--
     The Corps is directed to continue ongoing research. The 
     agreement includes $3,000,000 for research to assist the 
     Corps across all waterways, lock structures, lock operation 
     methods, and fish species and that will more fully inform the 
     Corps' operations. Additionally, the agreement provides 
     $1,500,000 for the National Information Collaboration on Eco-
     hydraulics effort to research the impact of reduced lock 
     operations on riverine fish, consistent with House and Senate 
     direction, as applicable.
       Monitoring of Completed Navigation Projects, Structural 
     Health Monitoring.--Funding is provided under the heading 
     ``Asset Management/Facilities and Equipment Maintenance 
     (FEM).''
       North Atlantic Division Report on Hurricane Barriers and 
     Harbors of Refuge.--Within available funds for ``Reducing 
     Civil Works Vulnerabilities'', the agreement includes 
     $700,000 for the report mandated under section 1218 of 
     America's Water Infrastructure Act (AWIA) of 2018.
       Regional Dredge Contracting.--The agreement notes that the 
     Corps has utilized regional dredge contracting in various 
     regions but not in New England. The Corps is encouraged to 
     enter into regional contracts to support increased 
     efficiencies in the deployment of dredges for navigation 
     projects in the New England region. The Corps is directed to 
     brief the Committees not later than 45 days after enactment 
     of this Act on the opportunities to implement regional dredge 
     contracting processes in the New England region.
       Regional Sediment Management.--The agreement includes 
     $6,000,000 to develop integrated tools that build coastal 
     resilience across navigation, flood risk management, and 
     ecosystem projects within the program.
       Regional Sediment Management, Geophysical Modeling.--The 
     agreement reiterates Senate direction.
       Water Operations Technical Support (WOTS), Forecast 
     Informed Reservoir Operations (FIRO).--The agreement includes 
     $10,000,000 to continue progress.
       Water Operations Technical Support, Urban Flood Damage 
     Reduction and Stream Restoration in Arid Regions.--The 
     agreement reiterates Senate direction.
       Water Operations Technical Support, Water Control Manual 
     Updates.--Funding is provided under the heading ``Additional 
     Funding for Ongoing Work.''


                           REGULATORY PROGRAM

       The agreement includes $221,000,000 for the Regulatory 
     Program.


            FORMERLY UTILIZED SITES REMEDIAL ACTION PROGRAM

       The agreement includes $300,000,000 for the Formerly 
     Utilized Sites Remedial Action Program.


                 FLOOD CONTROL AND COASTAL EMERGENCIES

       The agreement includes $35,000,000 for Flood Control and 
     Coastal Emergencies.


                                EXPENSES

       The agreement includes $216,000,000 for Expenses. The 
     agreement reiterates Senate direction with respect to an 
     Office of Congressional Affairs and the purpose of funding 
     provided. The agreement reiterates House direction with 
     respect to responsiveness to congressional inquiries. The 
     agreement includes no additional direction.


     OFFICE OF THE ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF THE ARMY FOR CIVIL WORKS

       The agreement includes $5,000,000 for the Office of the 
     Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works. The 
     agreement includes a restriction on the obligation of funds 
     related to written recommendations.
       A timely and accessible executive branch in the course of 
     fulfilling its constitutional role in the appropriations 
     process is essential. The requesting and receiving of basic, 
     factual information, such as budget justification materials 
     and statutorily required reports, including execution reports 
     and damage repair estimates, are vital in order to maintain a 
     transparent and open governing process. The agreement 
     recognizes that some discussions internal to the executive 
     branch are pre-decisional in nature and, therefore, not 
     subject to disclosure. However, the access to facts, figures, 
     and statistics that inform these decisions are not subject to 
     this same sensitivity and are critical to the appropriations 
     process. The Administration shall ensure timely and complete 
     responses to these inquiries. While the agreement notes 
     initial progress in providing the

[[Page S1563]]

     required reports, the regression to significant delays was 
     swift and conspicuous. It is imperative that these reports 
     are provided on a regular basis here forward.


      WATER INFRASTRUCTURE FINANCE AND INNOVATION PROGRAM ACCOUNT

       The agreement provides $7,200,000 for the Water 
     Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Program Account, 
     including $5,000,000 for program development, administration, 
     and oversight and $2,200,000 for the financial assistance 
     authorized by the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation 
     Act (Public Law 113-121) program.

             General Provisions--Corps of Engineers--Civil


                     (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)

       The agreement includes a provision relating to 
     reprogramming.
       The agreement includes a provision regarding the allocation 
     of funds.
       The agreement includes a provision prohibiting the use of 
     funds to carry out any contract that commits funds beyond the 
     amounts appropriated for that program, project, or activity.
       The agreement includes a provision regarding funding 
     transfers to the Fish and Wildlife Service.
       The agreement includes a provision regarding certain 
     dredged material disposal activities. The Corps is directed 
     to brief the Committees not later than 90 days after 
     enactment of this Act on dredged material disposal issues.
       The agreement includes a provision regarding reallocations 
     at a project.
       The agreement includes a provision regarding eligibility 
     for additional funding. Whether a project is eligible for 
     funding under a particular provision of additional funding is 
     a function of the technical details of the project; it is not 
     a policy decision. The Chief of Engineers is the federal 
     government's technical expert responsible for execution of 
     the Civil Works program and for offering professional advice 
     on its development. Therefore, the provision in this 
     agreement clarifies that a project's eligibility for 
     additional funding shall be solely the professional 
     determination of the Chief of Engineers.
       The agreement includes a provision related to eligibility 
     for participation in the Public Law 84-99 program.
       The agreement includes a provision related to the use of 
     previously appropriated funds.
       The agreement includes a provision directing the use of 
     previously appropriated funds.
       The agreement includes a provision related to eligibility 
     of certain projects for funding.
       The agreement includes a provision related to the use of 
     previously appropriated funds.

                  TITLE II--DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

                          Central Utah Project


                CENTRAL UTAH PROJECT COMPLETION ACCOUNT

       The agreement includes a total of $23,000,000 for the 
     Central Utah Project Completion Account.

                         Bureau of Reclamation

       In lieu of all House and Senate direction regarding 
     additional funding and the fiscal year 2024 work plan, the 
     agreement includes direction under the heading ``Additional 
     Funding for Ongoing Work'' in the Water and Related Resources 
     account.


                      WATER AND RELATED RESOURCES

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)

       The agreement provides $1,751,698,000 for Water and Related 
     Resources.
       The agreement includes legislative language, in accordance 
     with Public Law 114-322, to allow the use of certain funding 
     provided in prior fiscal years.
       The agreement for Water and Related Resources is shown in 
     the following table:

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       Additional Funding for Ongoing Work.--The agreement 
     includes funds above the budget request for Water and Related 
     Resources studies, projects, and activities. This funding is 
     for additional work that either was not included in the 
     budget request or was inadequately budgeted. Priority in 
     allocating these funds should be given to advance and 
     complete ongoing work, including preconstruction activities 
     and where environmental compliance has been completed; 
     improve water supply reliability; improve water deliveries; 
     enhance national, regional, or local economic development; 
     promote job growth; advance tribal and nontribal water 
     settlement studies and activities; or address critical 
     backlog maintenance and rehabilitation activities.
       Of the additional funding provided under the heading 
     ``Water Conservation and Delivery'', $134,000,000 shall be 
     for water storage projects as authorized in section 4007 of 
     the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) 
     Act (Public Law 114-322).
       Of the additional funding provided under the heading 
     ``Water Conservation and Delivery'', $50,000,000 shall be for 
     implementing the Drought Contingency Plan in the Lower 
     Colorado River Basin to create or conserve recurring Colorado 
     River water that contributes to supplies in Lake Mead and 
     other Colorado River water reservoirs in the Lower Colorado 
     River Basin or projects to improve the long-term efficiency 
     of operations in the Lower Colorado River Basin, consistent 
     with the Secretary's obligations under the Colorado River 
     Drought Contingency Plan Authorization Act (Public Law 116-
     14) and related agreements. None of these funds shall be used 
     for the operation of the Yuma Desalting Plant and nothing in 
     this section shall be construed as limiting existing or 
     future opportunities to augment the water supplies of the 
     Colorado River.
       Of the additional funding provided under the heading 
     ``Water Conservation and Delivery'', not less than 
     $20,000,000 shall be for the planning, pre-construction, or 
     construction activities related to projects found to be 
     feasible by the Secretary and that are ready to be initiated 
     for the repair of critical Reclamation canals where 
     operational conveyance capacity has been seriously impaired 
     by factors such as age or land subsidence, especially those 
     that would imminently jeopardize Reclamation's ability to 
     meet water delivery obligations in drought-prone states, of 
     which not less than $5,000,000 shall be for the Friant-Kern 
     Canal, San Luis Canal, and Delta Mendota Canal.
       Of the additional funding provided under the heading 
     ``Water Conservation and Delivery'', not less than 
     $10,000,000 shall be allocated to aquifer recharge projects. 
     Reclamation is reminded that projects authorized pursuant to 
     section 40910 of Public Law 117-58 are eligible to compete 
     for these funds.
       Of the additional funding provided under the heading ``Fish 
     Passage and Fish Screens'', $6,000,000 shall be for the 
     Anadromous Fish Screen Program.
       Of the additional funding provided under the heading 
     ``Environmental Restoration or Compliance'', not less than 
     $20,000,000 shall be for activities authorized under sections 
     4001 and 4010 of the WIIN Act (Public Law 114-322) or as set 
     forth in federal-state plans for restoring threatened and 
     endangered fish species affected by the operation of 
     Reclamation's water projects.
       Not later than 45 days after enactment of this Act, 
     Reclamation shall provide to the Committees a report 
     delineating how the additional funds in this account are to 
     be distributed, in which phase the work is to be 
     accomplished, and an explanation of the criteria and rankings 
     used to justify each allocation.
       Reclamation is reminded that voluntary funding in excess of 
     legally required cost shares for rural water projects is 
     acceptable but shall not be used by Reclamation as a 
     criterion for allocating additional funding provided in this 
     agreement or for budgeting in future years.
       Reclamation is reminded that the following activities are 
     eligible to compete for funding under the appropriate 
     heading: activities authorized under Indian Water Rights 
     Settlements; all authorized rural water projects, including 
     those with tribal components, those with non-tribal 
     components, and those with both; water storage and beneficial 
     use; ongoing work, including preconstruction activities, on 
     projects that provide new or existing water supplies through 
     additional infrastructure; and activities authorized under 
     section 206 of Public Law 113-235.
       Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Program.--The agreement 
     includes an additional $3,250,000 for studies or projects 
     that will develop alternative pumping sites in a location to 
     produce multiple benefits including dewatering of river 
     segments, improved water quality, and reliable water 
     delivery.
       Land Resources Management Program.--The agreement includes 
     no direction.
       Research and Development: Desalination and Water 
     Purification Program.--The agreement includes $12,000,000 for 
     desalination projects as authorized in section 4009(a) of the 
     WIIN Act (Public Law 114-322). Reclamation shall not impose 
     administrative project cost caps and shall use the statutory 
     Federal cost share for section 4009(a) projects.
       Research and Development: Science and Technology Program.--
     The agreement provides $5,000,000 for Reclamation's Airborne 
     Snow Observatory (ASO) program to support implementation of 
     ASO flights and $1,500,000 for continued collaboration with 
     the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the National Oceanic 
     Atmospheric Administration on efforts to improve real-time 
     and derived snow water information.
       WaterSMART Program: Open Evapotranspiration System.--The 
     agreement reiterates Senate direction and notes concerns 
     related to privacy, data quality, and potential regulatory 
     impacts. The briefing shall also include Reclamation's 
     assessment of these concerns and any potential solutions.
       WaterSMART Program: Title XVI Water Reclamation & Reuse 
     Program.--The agreement includes $20,000,000 for water 
     recycling and reuse projects as authorized in section 4009(c) 
     of the WIIN Act (Public Law 114-322).


                CENTRAL VALLEY PROJECT RESTORATION FUND

       The agreement provides an indefinite appropriation, which 
     allows Reclamation to expend funds collected in fiscal year 
     2024. The estimate of collections in fiscal year 2024 is 
     $48,508,000.


                    CALIFORNIA BAY-DELTA RESTORATION

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)

       The agreement provides $33,000,000 for the California Bay-
     Delta Restoration Program.


                       POLICY AND ADMINISTRATION

       The agreement provides $66,794,000 for Policy and 
     Administration.


                        ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISION

       The agreement includes a provision limiting Reclamation to 
     purchase not more than thirty passenger vehicles for 
     replacement only.

             General Provisions--Department of the Interior

       The agreement includes a provision outlining the 
     circumstances under which the Bureau of Reclamation may 
     reprogram funds.
       The agreement includes a provision regarding the San Luis 
     Unit and Kesterson Reservoir in California.
       The agreement includes a provision regarding section 
     9504(e) of the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009 
     (Public Law 111-11).
       The agreement includes a provision regarding the Calfed 
     Bay-Delta Authorization Act.
       The agreement includes a provision regarding section 
     9106(g)(2) of the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009.
       The agreement includes a provision regarding the 
     Reclamation States Emergency Drought Relief Act of 1991.
       The agreement includes a provision regarding section 
     9503(f) of the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009.

                    TITLE III--DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY

       The agreement provides $50,246,754,000 for the Department 
     of Energy to fund programs in its primary mission areas of 
     science, energy, environment, and national security.
       Staff Augmentation.--The Department is directed to provide 
     to the Committees not later than 60 days after enactment of 
     this Act a report detailing the number, position, assignment 
     duration, and cost, if reimbursable by the Department, of 
     laboratory contractor employees and Intergovernmental 
     Personnel Act assignees augmenting senior federal and 
     political appointee positions.

                        Crosscutting Initiatives

       The agreement notes that the funding levels specified in 
     the Crosscutting Initiatives are an estimate of directives 
     included in specific accounts across the Department.
       Carbon Dioxide Removal.--The agreement provides not less 
     than $118,000,000 for carbon dioxide removal technologies, 
     including not less than $23,000,000 from the Office of Energy 
     Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE), not less than 
     $70,000,000 from Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon 
     Management (FECM), and not less than $25,000,000 from the 
     Office of Science.
       The agreement includes funding and direction on a 
     competitive purchasing pilot program within the FECM account.
       Critical Minerals.--The agreement provides not less than 
     $380,000,000 for critical minerals, including not less than 
     $150,000,000 from EERE, not less than $70,000,000 from FECM, 
     not less than $136,000,000 from the Office of Nuclear Energy 
     (NE), and not less than $24,000,000 from the Office of 
     Science.
       Energy Storage.--The agreement provides not less than 
     $580,500,000 for energy storage, including not less than 
     $330,000,000 from EERE, not less than $92,500,000 from the 
     Office of Electricity, not less than $5,000,000 from FECM, 
     not less than $23,000,000 from NE, and not less than 
     $130,000,000 from the Office of Science.
       Hydrogen.--The agreement provides not less than 
     $396,000,000 for hydrogen, including not less than 
     $205,000,000 from EERE, not less than $120,000,000 from FECM, 
     not less than $21,000,000 from NE, and not less than 
     $50,000,000 from the Office of Science.
       The agreement provides funding for technologies to advance 
     hydrogen use for heavy-duty transportation, industrial, and 
     hard-to-electrify transportation applications including 
     trains, maritime shipping, and aviation within the EERE 
     account.
       Industrial Decarbonization.--The agreement provides not 
     less than $953,000,000 for industrial decarbonization, 
     including not less than $580,000,000 from EERE, not less than 
     $245,000,000 from FECM, not less than $62,000,000 from NE, 
     and not less than $66,000,000 from the Office of Science.

                            ENERGY PROGRAMS

                 Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy

       The agreement provides $3,460,000,000 for Energy Efficiency 
     and Renewable Energy.

[[Page S1574]]

       Within available funds, the agreement provides up to 
     $35,000,000 for the Lab-Embedded Entrepreneurship Program.


                       SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORTATION

       Vehicle Technologies.--The agreement provides not less than 
     $190,000,000 for Battery and Electrification Technologies.
       The agreement provides up to $6,000,000 for a competitive 
     solicitation for university-led teams to develop vehicle or 
     structural level strategies to reduce the likelihood of the 
     cascading effects of electric vehicle fires.
       The agreement provides not less than $100,000,000 for 
     Vehicle Technology Integration and Deployment.
       The agreement provides not less than $5,000,000 for 
     electric vehicle workforce development activities, including 
     building upon existing partnerships with the GridEd workforce 
     training program.
       The agreement provides not less than $40,000,000 for Energy 
     Efficient Mobility Systems.
       The agreement provides up to $10,000,000 for research and 
     development on improved recycling of batteries collected 
     through battery recycling programs such as the Battery 
     Recycling Retail Initiative. The agreement encourages the 
     Department to continue research on understanding and 
     mitigating the risks during battery recycling collection, 
     storage, and transportation to enable stores to meet state-
     level fire standards for battery recycling such as those in 
     California.
       Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technologies.--The agreement 
     provides not less than $50,000,000 for Hydrogen Technologies.
       The agreement provides not less than $60,000,000 for 
     technologies to advance hydrogen use for hard-to-electrify 
     transportation applications, including locomotives, maritime 
     shipping, and aviation.
       The agreement provides $10,000,000 for hydrogen delivery, 
     storage, and release technologies, including carriers.
       The agreement provides up to $20,000,000 for Safety, Codes, 
     and Standards.


                            RENEWABLE ENERGY

       Solar Energy Technologies.--The agreement provides up to 
     $60,000,000 for Concentrating Solar Power.
       The agreement provides not less than $45,000,000 for 
     Balance of System Soft Costs and reiterates Senate direction.
       The agreement provides not less than $25,000,000 for 
     research, development, and demonstration activities related 
     to cadmium telluride and not less than $25,000,000 for 
     perovskites.
       Wind Energy Technologies.--The agreement provides not less 
     than $18,000,000 for distributed wind technologies.
       Within available funds for offshore wind, the agreement 
     provides up to $6,000,000 for Centers of Excellence focused 
     on the offshore wind energy engineering, infrastructure, 
     supply chain, transmission, and other pertinent issues 
     required to support offshore wind in the United States.
       The Department is directed to support an at-scale floating 
     wind turbine demonstrator.
       The agreement continues to support efforts to develop a 
     university-based testing facility for industrial prototyping 
     and manufacturing of turbine systems capable of producing 
     upwards of 30 megawatts of power per unit and grid 
     integration efforts for offshore wind turbine capabilities.
       Water Power Technologies.--The agreement provides 
     $59,000,000 for hydropower and pumped storage activities and 
     up to $141,000,000 for Marine Energy.
       The agreement includes funding for the purposes of section 
     242 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 within the Grid 
     Deployment account.
       The agreement provides not less than $10,000,000 for 
     continuation of foundational research activities led by the 
     National Marine Energy Centers and affiliated universities 
     and research institutions.
       Within available funds for Marine Energy, the agreement 
     provides not less than $43,300,000 to address infrastructure 
     needs at marine energy technology sites, including 
     $21,300,000 for the Department's Marine and Coastal Research 
     Laboratory.
       The agreement provides up to $35,000,000 for competitive 
     solicitations to support university- and industry-led 
     projects to rapidly design, fabricate, and test marine energy 
     systems, subsystems, and components.
       Geothermal Technologies.--The agreement provides up to 
     $100,000,000 for enhanced geothermal system demonstrations 
     and next-generation geothermal demonstration projects in 
     diverse geographic areas.
       The agreement provides up to $40,000,000 for FORGE.


                           ENERGY EFFICIENCY

       Advanced Manufacturing (Industrial Efficiency and 
     Decarbonization Office and Advanced Materials and 
     Manufacturing Technologies Office).--The agreement provides 
     $50,000,000 for critical materials and up to $60,000,000 for 
     Energy Technology Manufacturing.
       The agreement provides $5,000,000 for advanced 
     manufacturing of large offshore wind blades and turbines.
       Building Technologies.--The agreement provides not less 
     than $70,000,000 for Commercial Buildings Integration, not 
     less than $60,000,000 for Residential Buildings Integration, 
     and not less than $75,000,000 for Equipment and Building 
     Standards.
       The agreement provides not less than $15,000,000 for 
     Building Energy Codes.
       The agreement provides not less than $15,000,000 and up to 
     $50,000,000 for research, development, demonstration, and 
     commercial application activities related to advanced solid-
     state lighting technology development.

         Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and Emergency Response

       The agreement provides $200,000,000 for Cybersecurity, 
     Energy Security, and Emergency Response.
       The agreement provides funding for the Eagle-I activity 
     within the Response and Restoration control point instead of 
     the Risk Management Technology and Tools control point.
       Risk Management Technology and Tools.--The agreement 
     reiterates House direction regarding efforts to integrate 
     cybersecurity into the designs of energy delivery systems and 
     does not include direction on funding for the Energy 
     Cybersecurity Center of Excellence.
       The agreement provides $10,000,000 to support a regional 
     pilot to foster partnerships between national laboratories, 
     universities, electricity sector utilities, and state and 
     local government entities to identify and mitigate the 
     prevalent and constantly evolving national security threats 
     to regional infrastructure.

                              Electricity

       The agreement provides $280,000,000 for Electricity.
       Transmission Reliability and Resilience.--The agreement 
     includes $3,000,000 to support university-based research 
     partnerships to develop and deploy advanced data analytics 
     and predictive models that incorporate human operator 
     behavior to better understand, predict, prevent, and mitigate 
     cascading failures in power grids.
       Resilient Distribution Systems.--The agreement includes up 
     to $10,000,000 to support the COMMANDER National Test Bed.
       The agreement provides up to $15,000,000 to public utility 
     commissions and state energy offices for technical assistance 
     in understanding distribution planning, interconnection, and 
     modeling of distributed energy sources with their utilities, 
     their customers, and the broader wholesale market.


                 GRID HARDWARE, COMPONENTS, AND SYSTEMS

       Energy Storage.--The agreement includes $4,800,000 for 
     operational support of the Grid Storage Launchpad.
       The agreement provides not less than $20,000,000 for a 
     competitive pilot demonstration grant program, as authorized 
     in section 3201 of the Energy Act of 2020, for energy storage 
     projects that are wholly U.S.-made, sourced, and supplied.
       Transformer Resilience and Advanced Components.--The 
     agreement provides funding for research in silicon carbide 
     and gallium nitride power electronics within the Transformer 
     Resilience and Advanced Components control point instead of 
     the Energy Delivery Grid Operations Technology control point.

                            Grid Deployment

       The agreement provides $60,000,000 for Grid Deployment.
       Transmission Planning and Permitting.--The Department is 
     directed to consider designating transmission facilities as 
     being in the national interest under section 216a of the 
     Federal Power Act through the issuance of facility-specific 
     or route-specific national interest electric transmission 
     corridors.
       Distribution and Markets.--The agreement includes up to 
     $10,000,000 to provide technical assistance and guidance for 
     Public Utility Commissions and Regional Transmission 
     Organizations to model the operating behavior of, and develop 
     rate or market designs, to incorporate expanded integration 
     of Long Duration Energy Storage resources on the grid.

                             Nuclear Energy

       The agreement provides $1,685,000,000 for Nuclear Energy.
       NEUP, SBIR/STTR, and TCF.--The agreement provides 
     $6,630,000 for the University Nuclear Leadership Program, 
     previously funded as the Integrated University Program. The 
     agreement does not provide funds for the planning and 
     construction of new university nuclear reactors.
       Workforce Training.--Section 311 of the agreement provides 
     up to $100,000,000 to implement a new nuclear safety training 
     program. The Department is directed to make one or more cost-
     shared awards not later than 180 days after enactment of this 
     Act. The program shall require cost share of at least 50 
     percent of the total program costs. The cost share must come 
     from non-federal sources unless otherwise allowed by law. In 
     implementing the program, the Department shall give priority 
     to universities located within 50 miles of reactors that were 
     constructed prior to 1980 and have had significant safety 
     issues in the last five decades. A successful applicant shall 
     have clearly defined goals and objectives; identify and 
     address the gap between available skilled workers and the 
     demand for the training program; and lead to an industry 
     recognized nuclear reactor safety credential to meet demand.


                  NUCLEAR ENERGY ENABLING TECHNOLOGIES

       The agreement provides $16,000,000 for integrated energy 
     systems, including projects with hydrogen co-located with 
     nuclear.
       Nuclear Science User Facilities.--The agreement provides 
     not less than $12,000,000 for computational support.


          FUEL CYCLE RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT, AND DEMONSTRATION

       Advanced Nuclear Fuel Availability.--The agreement provides 
     $100,000,000. Additionally, section 312 of the agreement 
     provides up to $2,720,000,000 for nuclear fuel availability 
     derived from unobligated appropriations.

[[Page S1575]]

       Material Recovery and Waste Form Development.--The 
     agreement provides not less than $27,000,000 for EBR-II 
     Processing for HALEU and $7,000,000 for the ZIRCEX process.
       Accident Tolerant Fuels.--The agreement provides not less 
     than $25,000,000 for further development of silicon carbide 
     ceramic matrix composite fuel cladding for light water 
     reactors. The agreement reiterates Senate direction to 
     provide a multi-year plan to phase out the program.
       Fuel Cycle Laboratory R&D.--The agreement provides up to 
     $15,000,000 for an advanced metallic fuels program.


       REACTOR CONCEPTS RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT, AND DEMONSTRATION

       Advanced Small Modular Reactor RD&D.--The agreement 
     supports the budget request which provides no further funding 
     for the existing cooperative agreement DENE0008928.
       Section 311 of the agreement also includes funding for 
     small modular reactor development and deployment activities 
     derived from unobligated appropriations.
       The agreement provides up to $800,000,000 for not more than 
     two near term utility commercial deployments of a Generation 
     3+ small modular reactor technology in the United States.
       The Department, through the Office of Clean Energy 
     Demonstrations, is directed to make not more than two cost-
     shared awards not later than 270 days after enactment of this 
     Act, with a utility cost share of not less than 50 percent. 
     The selection requirements shall be consistent with the 
     process outlined in section 959A of the Energy Policy Act of 
     2005. A successful applicant shall have an expected orderbook 
     of deployments.
       The agreement provides $100,000,000 for one or more 
     competitive awards with a 50 percent cost share to support 
     design, licensing, supplier development, and site preparation 
     of a grid-scale Generation 3+ reactor design that can be 
     deployed no later than 2030. The Department is directed to 
     award this funding not later than 90 days after enactment of 
     this Act to support rapid domestic deployment of small 
     modular reactors and supplier development to fabricate 
     nuclear components for both U.S. and export markets.
       Advanced Reactor Technologies.--The agreement provides not 
     less than $20,000,000 for MARVEL.


                 ADVANCED REACTOR DEMONSTRATION PROGRAM

       The agreement reiterates Senate direction requiring a 
     report on cost impacts of the Advanced Reactor Demonstration 
     Program (ARDP) projects.
       Risk Reduction for Future Demonstration.--The agreement 
     provides $137,222,000 for the Risk Reduction Program.
       Regulatory Development.--In lieu of House direction, the 
     agreement provides $10,000,000 for the Advanced Nuclear 
     Licensing Energy Cost-Share Grant Program as authorized under 
     42 U.S.C. 16280 for technology diversity, including spent 
     nuclear fuel reprocessing.


                             INFRASTRUCTURE

       The agreement does not include funds for the Reactor Fuels 
     Research Capability.


                           PROGRAM DIRECTION

       The agreement includes funding for International Nuclear 
     Energy Cooperation activities within Program Direction.

                  Fossil Energy and Carbon Management

       The agreement provides $865,000,000 for Fossil Energy and 
     Carbon Management.
       In lieu of House and Senate direction, the agreement 
     supports and provides funding for industrial emission 
     reduction, decarbonization, and combustion-centric activities 
     that advance new technologies and improve the current 
     utilization of generation fuels.
       The agreement includes not less than $5,000,000 to continue 
     efforts to support natural gas demand response pilot 
     programs.
       Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Systems & Hydrogen.--The agreement 
     provides not less than $100,000,000 for the research, 
     development, and demonstration of solid oxide fuel cell 
     systems and hydrogen production, transport, storage, and use 
     systems.
       University Training and Research.--The agreement includes 
     no direction regarding funding within the University Training 
     and Research program.
       lnteragency Working Group on Coal and Power Plant 
     Communities and Economic Revitalization.--The agreement 
     directs the working group to convene relevant stakeholders to 
     discuss waterway freight diversification and economic 
     development in the Ohio, Allegheny, and Monongahela River 
     Corridor.


                     CARBON MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGIES

       The agreement recognizes the benefits of a clear regulatory 
     process for ocean carbon dioxide removal pathways and 
     provides $250,000 to work with other appropriate federal 
     agency and industry partners to develop, test, and evaluate 
     ocean-based carbon dioxide removal technologies.
       Carbon Dioxide Removal.--The agreement provides $10,000,000 
     for research, development and demonstration related to 
     biological carbon sequestration in deep ocean water through 
     macroalgae and other living marine resources.
       The agreement includes $20,000,000 to continue the 
     competitive purchasing pilot program that was directed to be 
     established in the fiscal year 2023 Act, consistent with 
     Division D of Public Law 117-328. The Department is directed 
     to provide to the Committees not later than 180 days after 
     enactment of this Act a report on the progress of the 
     competitive purchasing pilot program.
       Carbon Transport and Storage.--The agreement provides not 
     less than $35,000,000 for CarbonSAFE and not less than 
     $25,000,000 for the Regional Carbon Sequestration 
     Partnerships.


                RESOURCE TECHNOLOGIES AND SUSTAINABILITY

       Advanced Remediation Technologies.--The agreement provides 
     $15,000,000 for university research and field investigations 
     in the Gulf of Mexico to confirm the nature, regional 
     context, and hydrocarbon system behavior of gas hydrate 
     deposits.
       The agreement provides $8,000,000 for the Risk Based Data 
     Management System.
       Methane Mitigation Technologies.--The agreement provides 
     $5,000,000 for advanced observational technologies, as 
     validated in peer-reviewed publications, to globally identify 
     and mitigate methane and volatile organic compound emissions.

                            Energy Projects

       The agreement provides $83,724,000 for the Energy Projects 
     account for Congressionally Directed Spending at the 
     Department for the following list of projects.

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                 Naval Petroleum and Oil Shale Reserves

       The agreement provides $13,010,000 for the operation of the 
     Naval Petroleum and Oil Shale Reserves.

                      Strategic Petroleum Reserve

       The agreement includes $213,390,000 for the Strategic 
     Petroleum Reserve.
       The Department is directed to continue its efforts to 
     refill the Strategic Petroleum Reserve expeditiously and to 
     provide to the Committees not later than 90 days after 
     enactment of this Act, and quarterly thereafter, a briefing 
     on its plans to refill the Strategic Petroleum Reserve.

                         SPR Petroleum Account

       The agreement provides $100,000 for the SPR Petroleum 
     Account.

                   Northeast Home Heating Oil Reserve

       The agreement provides $7,150,000 for the Northeast Home 
     Heating Oil Reserve.

                   Energy Information Administration

       The agreement provides $135,000,000 for the Energy 
     Information Administration.

                   Non-Defense Environmental Cleanup

       The agreement provides $342,000,000 for Non-Defense 
     Environmental Cleanup.
       Small Sites.--The agreement provides $108,435,000 for Small 
     Sites cleanup. Within this amount, $18,000,000 is for the 
     Energy Technology Engineering Center, $11,500,000 is for 
     Idaho National Laboratory, $6,000,000 is for work at the 
     Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, $67,000,000 is for 
     Moab, and $5,935,000 is for excess Office of Science 
     facilities.

      Uranium Enrichment Decontamination and Decommissioning Fund

       The agreement provides $855,000,000 for activities funded 
     from the Uranium Enrichment Decontamination and 
     Decommissioning Fund.

                                Science

       The agreement provides $8,240,000,000 for Science.
       The Department is directed to provide not later than 90 
     days, and quarterly thereafter, a briefing on its actions to 
     progressively move to fully funding research awards of 
     $2,500,000 or less.
       Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning.--The 
     agreement includes not less than $135,000,000 for Artificial 
     Intelligence and Machine Learning across the Office of 
     Science Programs.
       Energy Earthshots.--The agreement reiterates House 
     direction.
       Quantum Information Sciences.--The agreement provides not 
     Jess than $245,000,000 for quantum information science, 
     including not less than $120,000,000 for research and 
     $125,000,000 for the five National Quantum Information 
     Science Research Centers.
       The agreement includes funding at the fiscal year 2023 
     levels for the RENEW and FAIR initiatives.


                 ADVANCED SCIENTIFIC COMPUTING RESEARCH

       The agreement provides not less than $219,000,000 for the 
     Argonne Leadership Computing Facility, $255,000,000 for the 
     Oak Ridge Leadership Computing Facility, $135,000,000 for the 
     National Energy Research Scientific Computing Center at 
     Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, and $91,000,000 for 
     ESnet.
       The agreement provides not less than $290,000,000 for 
     Mathematical, Computational, and Computer Sciences Research.


                         BASIC ENERGY SCIENCES

       The agreement provides $704,134,000 for facilities 
     operations of the nation's light sources, $373,163,000 for 
     facilities operations of the high-flux neutron sources, and 
     $150,880,000 for facilities operations of the Nanoscale 
     Science Research Centers.


                 BIOLOGICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH

       The agreement includes not less than $420,000,000 for 
     Biological Systems Science and not less than $430,000,000 for 
     Earth and Environmental Systems Sciences.
       The agreement provides up to $20,000,000 to re-establish a 
     low-dose radiation research pilot program in coordination 
     with the Office of Environment, Health, Safety, and Security 
     and the Office of Nuclear Energy.
       The agreement provides not less than $115,000,000 for the 
     four Bioenergy Research Centers to accelerate research and 
     development needed for advanced fuels and products.
       The agreement provides not less than $125,000,000 for 
     Foundational Genomics Research.
       The agreement reiterates House direction on key cloud, 
     aerosol, precipitation, and radiation processes and a related 
     pilot program.


                         FUSION ENERGY SCIENCES

       The agreement provides $98,100,000 for NSTX-U.
       The agreement provides $131,500,000 for DIII-D.
       The agreement includes $40,000,000 for the Milestone-Based 
     Development Program. The agreement reiterates House direction 
     regarding the management of the Milestone-Based Development 
     Program.
       The agreement reiterates Senate direction regarding the 
     High-Energy-Density Laboratory Plasmas program.
       The agreement includes up to $20,000,000 for Inertial 
     Fusion Energy.
       The agreement provides $25,000,000 for the Materials Plasma 
     Exposure eXperiment.
       The agreement includes up to $10,000,000 for future 
     facilities studies.
       The agreement includes not less than $20,000,000 for 
     materials and fusion nuclear science.


                          HIGH ENERGY PHYSICS

       The agreement provides not less than $35,000,000 for the 
     Sanford Underground Research Facility and not less than 
     $5,000,000 for the Accelerator Controls Operations Research 
     Network.


                            NUCLEAR PHYSICS

       In lieu of House direction regarding facility operations, 
     the agreement directs the Department to give priority to 
     optimizing operations for all Nuclear Physics user 
     facilities, including Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider, 
     Continuous Electron Beam Accelerator, Facility for Rare 
     Isotope Beams, and Argonne Tandem Linac Accelerator System.

                         Nuclear Waste Disposal

       The agreement provides $12,040,000 for Nuclear Waste 
     Disposal for Nuclear Waste Fund (NWF) oversight activities, 
     which is derived from the NWF.

                         Technology Transitions

       The agreement provides $20,000,000 for Technology 
     Transitions.
       The agreement provides not less than $2,500,000 to support 
     the Energy Program for Innovation Clusters Program.
       The agreement provides $3,500,000 for the creation of a 
     non-governmental Foundation for Energy Security and 
     Innovation, which includes $1,500,000 to establish the 
     Foundation and $2,000,000 to initially carry out its 
     activities.

                      Clean Energy Demonstrations

       The agreement provides $50,000,000 for Clean Energy 
     Demonstrations.
       The agreement includes funding for demonstration projects 
     previously selected prior to the date of enactment of this 
     Act.
       The agreement includes funding for Demonstration Planning 
     and Analysis as requested.
       The agreement reiterates House direction regarding the 
     management of the Milestone-Based Development Program.

               Advanced Research Projects Agency--Energy

       The agreement provides $460,000,000 for the Advanced 
     Research Projects Agency--Energy.

         Title 17 Innovative Technology Loan Guarantee Program

       The agreement provides a net appropriation of $0 for the 
     Title 17 Innovative Technology Loan Guarantee Program.

        Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Loan Program

       The agreement provides $13,000,000 for the Advanced 
     Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Loan Program.

                  Tribal Energy Loan Guarantee Program

       The agreement provides $6,300,000 for the Tribal Energy 
     Loan Guarantee Program.

                   Indian Energy Policy and Programs

       The agreement provides $70,000,000 for Indian Energy Policy 
     and Programs.

                      Departmental Administration

       The agreement provides $286,500,000 for Departmental 
     Administration.
       Control Points.--The following is the only direction for 
     control points. The agreement continues funding for functions 
     within Departmental Administration in the fiscal year 2023 
     Act and adds a new activity for Industrial Emissions and 
     Technology Coordination. The Department is directed to 
     continue to submit a budget request that proposes a separate 
     funding level for each of these activities.
       Office of the Secretary.--The agreement includes no 
     direction for the Office of the Secretary.
       Industrial Emissions and Technology Coordination.--The 
     agreement reiterates Senate direction regarding coordination 
     of clean industrial research, development, demonstrations, 
     and deployments and the development of a Multi-Year Program 
     Plan. The agreement reiterates Senate direction regarding the 
     alignment, simplification, and consolidation of coordinating 
     mechanisms for crosscutting initiatives into one function. 
     The agreement reiterates Senate direction regarding a 
     briefing. The agreement directs the Department to include in 
     future budget requests funding breakdowns by account, 
     subprogram, and congressional control point for each of the 
     crosscutting initiatives. The agreement includes no direction 
     regarding a list of crosscutting initiatives.
       Other Departmental Administration.--The following is the 
     only direction for Other Departmental Administration. The 
     Department shall allocate funds sufficient for staffing and 
     operational needs for Management, Project Management 
     Oversight and Assessments, Chief Human Capital Officer, and 
     General Counsel. The agreement includes Senate language 
     regarding the Arctic Energy Office and the U.S. energy 
     employment report. The agreement includes House and Senate 
     language on the Israel Binational Industrial Research and 
     Development (BIRD) Foundation and the U.S. Israel Center of 
     Excellence in Energy Engineering and Water Technology.

                    Office of the Inspector General

       The agreement provides $86,000,000 for the Office of the 
     Inspector General (OIG).
       The Inspector General has requested extensive payroll and 
     other sensitive and personally identifiable information from 
     multiple Department contractors, spanning multiple years and 
     covering thousands of employees. Subsequent to these 
     requests, the Department published a proposed rulemaking in 
     the

[[Page S1579]]

     Federal Register on November 27, 2023, seeking to exempt the 
     System of Records (SOR) in which this sensitive data would be 
     maintained from certain protections of the Privacy Act, which 
     it would otherwise be obligated to follow. Among the 
     provisions the Department seeks to exempt are 5 U.S.C. 
     552a(e)(5), which requires the agency to ``maintain all 
     records which are used by the agency in making any 
     determination about any individual with such accuracy, 
     relevance, timeliness, and completeness as is reasonably 
     necessary to assure fairness to the individual in the 
     determination''; and (e)(l), which requires the agency to 
     ``maintain in its records only such information about an 
     individual as is relevant and necessary to accomplish a 
     purpose of the agency required to be accomplished by statute 
     or by executive order of the President.''
       The agreement expresses concern over both the breadth of 
     the data collected and how the Department has proposed to 
     store it. There is also concern over the lack of transparency 
     about the source and amounts of funding that would be 
     required in FY24 and subsequent fiscal years to maintain such 
     a system, including providing adequate safeguards for the 
     data, any required infrastructure, and dedicated FTEs. 
     Accordingly, prior to obligating any funds provided in this 
     Act to modify the SOR or collect additional data to populate 
     it, the Department and OIG shall provide to the Committees a 
     report, which shall include at a minimum:
        The specific purposes for the information 
     collected;
        The estimated cost and sources of funds for such 
     data collection and storage prior to the date of enactment of 
     this Act;
        An estimate, by fiscal year and source, of costs 
     associated with collecting, analyzing, securing, and 
     maintaining the data proposed to be stored in the SOR, 
     including costs (maintenance or otherwise) of any 
     infrastructure;
        A detailed description of the safeguards the 
     Department and OIG will use to protect the sensitive data;
        Any applicable policies that exist to protect the 
     sensitive data from abuse or disclosure, including limits on 
     accessing the data only for official purposes;
        An estimate of the length of time the Department 
     and OIG proposes to retain the collected data; and
        Whether the aggregation of data may require 
     additional safeguards.

                    ATOMIC ENERGY DEFENSE ACTIVITIES

                NATIONAL NUCLEAR SECURITY ADMINISTRATION

       The agreement provides $24,135,000,000 for the National 
     Nuclear Security Administration(NNSA).
       The agreement reiterates House direction on an independent 
     review team for projects more than $750,000,000.
       The agreement reiterates House direction on GAO open 
     priority recommendations.
       The agreement does not include a limitation of funds 
     related to the report on requirements.

                           Weapons Activities

       The agreement provides $19,108,000,000 for Weapons 
     Activities.
       The agreement directs NNSA to seek to enter into an 
     agreement with the scientific advisory group known as JASON 
     to conduct an assessment of the report entitled, ``Research 
     Program Plan for Plutonium and Pit Aging''.
       The agreement provides $690,000,000 for the Inertial 
     Confinement Fusion campaign. Within available funds, the 
     agreement provides not less than $410,000,000 for the 
     National Ignition Facility (NIF), not less than $99,400,000 
     for OMEGA, not less than $85,000,000 for the Z Facility and 
     not less than $30,000,000 for Los Alamos National Laboratory. 
     The agreement provides not less than $42,000,000 for target 
     research, development, and fabrication.

                    Defense Nuclear Nonproliferation

       The agreement provides $2,581,000,000 for Defense Nuclear 
     Nonproliferation.
       The agreement recognizes the challenges inherent in 
     commercializing Molybdenum-99 production technologies and 
     encourages a whole-of-government collaboration regarding the 
     financial sustainability of domestic production of this 
     medical isotope. The agreement therefore provides $50,000,000 
     for existing or new Laboratory and Partnership Support 
     agreements to expedite the establishment of stable domestic 
     sources of Molybdenum-99 without the use of highly enriched 
     uranium.
       The agreement provides funds for the Nonproliferation 
     Stewardship Program for a uranium test bed to evaluate, 
     explore, and test emerging technologies and to maintain core 
     competencies through enhanced, hands-on training.

                             Naval Reactors


                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The agreement provides $1,946,000,000 for Naval Reactors.
       The agreement reiterates House direction to provide a 
     project data sheet for SSNX with future year budget 
     submissions.

                     Federal Salaries and Expenses

       The agreement provides $500,000,000 for Federal Salaries 
     and Expenses.

               ENVIRONMENTAL AND OTHER DEFENSE ACTIVITIES

                     Defense Environmental Cleanup

       The agreement provides $7,285,000,000 for Defense 
     Environmental Cleanup.
       Future Year Budgets.--The agreement reiterates direction 
     for the Department to include out-year funding projections in 
     the annual budget request for Environmental Management, and 
     an estimate of the total cost and time to complete each site.
       Hanford.--Not later than 30 days after enactment of this 
     Act, the Department shall provide to the Committees a 
     briefing on the findings of the ``Follow-on Report of 
     Analysis of Approaches to Supplemental Treatment of Low-
     Activity Waste at the Hanford Nuclear Reservation'' completed 
     by the federally funded research and development center and 
     the ``Review of the Continued Analysis of Supplemental 
     Treatment Approaches of Low-Activity Waste at the Hanford 
     Nuclear Reservation: Review #3'' completed by the National 
     Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine in 2023 
     pursuant to section 3125 of the FY2021 National Defense 
     Authorization Act.
       Containment Ventilation Systems.--The agreement provides up 
     to $7,000,000 for work on qualification, testing, and 
     research to advance the state-of-the-art containment 
     ventilation systems.
       The agreement provides up to $5,000,000 to leverage the DOE 
     Scholars Program to enable the training of technicians, 
     engineers, and scientists to support cleanup and remediation 
     activities across the program.
       The agreement provides up to $5,000,000 for continued 
     independent review, analysis, and applied research to support 
     cost-effective, risk informed cleanup decision making.

     Defense Uranium Enrichment Decontamination and Decommissioning


                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The agreement provides $285,000,000 for Defense Uranium 
     Enrichment Decontamination and Decommissioning.

                        Other Defense Activities

       The agreement provides $1,080,000,000 for Other Defense 
     Activities.

                    POWER MARKETING ADMINISTRATIONS

                  Bonneville Power Administration Fund

       The agreement provides no appropriation for the Bonneville 
     Power Administration, which derives its funding from revenues 
     deposited into the Bonneville Power Administration Fund.

      Operation and Maintenance, Southeastern Power Administration

       The agreement provides a net appropriation of $0 for the 
     Southeastern Power Administration.

      Operation and Maintenance, Southwestern Power Administration

       The agreement provides a net appropriation of $11,440,000 
     for the Southwestern Power Administration.

 Construction, Rehabilitation, Operation and Maintenance, Western Area 
                          Power Administration

       The agreement provides a net appropriation of$99,872,000 
     for the Western Area Power Administration.

           Falcon and Amistad Operating and Maintenance Fund

       The agreement provides a net appropriation of $228,000 for 
     the Falcon and Amistad Operating and Maintenance Fund.

                  Federal Energy Regulatory Commission


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement provides $520,000,000 for the Federal Energy 
     Regulatory Commission (FERC). Revenues for FERC are set to an 
     amount equal to the budget authority, resulting in a net 
     appropriation of $0.

                GENERAL PROVISIONS--DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY


                     (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)

       The agreement includes a provision prohibiting the use of 
     funds provided in this title to initiate requests for 
     proposals, other solicitations, or arrangements for new 
     programs or activities that have not yet been approved and 
     funded by Congress; requires notification or a report for 
     certain funding actions; prohibits funds to be used for 
     certain multi-year ``Energy Programs'' activities without 
     notification; and prohibits the obligation or expenditure of 
     funds provided in this title through a reprogramming of funds 
     except in certain circumstances. The notification 
     requirements in the provision also apply to the modification 
     of any grant, contract, or Other Transaction Agreement where 
     funds are allocated for new programs, projects, or activities 
     not covered by a previous notification.
       The agreement includes a provision prohibiting the use of 
     funds in this title for capital construction of high hazard 
     nuclear facilities, unless certain independent oversight is 
     conducted.
       The agreement includes a provision prohibiting the use of 
     funds in this title to approve critical decision-2 or 
     critical decision-3 for certain construction projects, unless 
     a separate independent cost estimate has been developed for 
     that critical decision.
       The agreement includes a provision for oversight of large 
     construction projects.
       The agreement includes a provision to prohibit certain 
     payments.
       The agreement includes a provision regarding Stockpile 
     Management.
       The agreement includes a provision to make additional funds 
     available to the Office of the Inspector General for 
     oversight of Public Law 117-58 and Public Law 117-169.
       The agreement includes a provision to address regional 
     petroleum product reserves.
       The agreement includes a provision to establish criteria 
     for the sale of petroleum

[[Page S1580]]

     products from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve.
       The agreement includes a provision to address research 
     security.
       The agreement includes a provision to make certain funds 
     available under Public Law 117-58 for nuclear activities and 
     workforce.
       The agreement includes a provision to make certain funds 
     available under Public Law 117-58 for uranium.
       The agreement includes a provision for oversight of 
     National Laboratory employees.
       The agreement includes a provision regarding Department of 
     Energy implementation.

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                     TITLE IV--INDEPENDENT AGENCIES

                    Appalachian Regional Commission

       The agreement provides $200,000,000 for the Appalachian 
     Regional Commission.
       The agreement includes direction in both House and Senate 
     reports. The agreement also includes not less than 
     $15,000,000 for counties within the Northern Appalachian 
     region to support economic development, manufacturing, and 
     entrepreneurship.

                Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board


                         salaries and expenses

       The agreement provides $42,000,000 for the Defense Nuclear 
     Facilities Safety Board (DNFSB).
       The agreement provides $1,520,000 within the Office of 
     Inspector General of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC 
     IG) to provide the DNFSB inspector general services.

                        Delta Regional Authority


                         salaries and expenses

       The agreement provides $31,100,000 for the Delta Regional 
     Authority.

                           Denali Commission

       The agreement provides $17,000,000 for the Denali 
     Commission.

                  Northern Border Regional Commission

       The agreement provides $41,000,000 for the Northern Border 
     Regional Commission (NBRC).

                 Southeast Crescent Regional Commission

       The agreement provides $20,000,000 for the Southeast 
     Crescent Regional Commission.

                  Southwest Border Regional Commission

       The agreement provides $5,000,000 for the Southwest Border 
     Regional Commission.

                         Great Lakes Authority

       The agreement provides $5,000,000 for the Great Lakes 
     Authority.

                     Nuclear Regulatory Commission


                         salaries and expenses

       The agreement provides $928,317,580 for the Nuclear 
     Regulatory Commission. This amount is offset by estimated 
     revenues of $794,341,580, resulting in a net appropriation of 
     $133,976,000.

                                (Dollars)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                        Account                             Final Bill
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nuclear Reactor Safety.................................     $522,011,400
Integrated University Program..........................       16,000,000
Nuclear Materials and Waste Safety.....................      124,214,700
Decommissioning and Low-Level Waste....................       26,537,800
Corporate Support......................................      301,554,000
Use of Prior-Year Balances.............................      -62,000,320
                                                        ----------------
    Total, Nuclear Regulatory Commission...............      928,317,580
------------------------------------------------------------------------

                      office of inspector general

       The agreement provides $15,769,000 for the Office of 
     Inspector General in the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. This 
     amount is offset by revenues of $12,655,000, resulting in a 
     net appropriation of $3,114,000.
       The agreement provides $1,520,000 to provide inspector 
     general services for the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety 
     Board.

                  Nuclear Waste Technical Review Board


                         salaries and expenses

       The agreement provides $4,064,000 for the Nuclear Waste 
     Technical Review Board to be derived from the Nuclear Waste 
     Fund.

                GENERAL PROVISIONS--INDEPENDENT AGENCIES

       The agreement includes a provision instructing the Nuclear 
     Regulatory Commission on responding to congressional requests 
     for information.
       The agreement includes a provision related to 
     reprogrammings.

                      TITLE V--GENERAL PROVISIONS


                     (including transfer of funds)

       The agreement includes a provision relating to lobbying 
     restrictions.
       The agreement includes a provision relating to transfer 
     authority. No additional transfer authority is implied or 
     conveyed by this provision. For the purposes of this 
     provision, the term ``transfer'' shall mean the shifting of 
     all or part of the budget authority in one account to 
     another.
       The agreement includes a provision 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 a provision regarding access to 
     nuclear weapons production facilities.

   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 E--DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT, AND RELATED 
                   AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2024

       The following statement is an explanation of the effects of 
     Division E, 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 2024.
       The joint explanatory statement accompanying this division 
     is approved and indicates congressional intent. Unless 
     otherwise noted, the language set forth in House Report 118-
     155 and Senate Report 118-83 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, Senate 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 2023 enacted level and the 
     fiscal year 2024 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.
       Bighorn Sheep.--The Committees are aware that the Forest 
     Service and the Bureau of Land Management use the Western 
     Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies' occupied bighorn 
     habitat maps, telemetry data, and recent bighorn observations 
     in conducting Risk of Contact analyses and that risk of 
     contact models are currently being run on a State-wide basis 
     where sufficient data exists. The Committees direct the 
     agencies to complete Risk of Contact analyses using the 
     Western Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies' data where 
     it exists. The Committees expect the agencies to continue to 
     share findings transparently and promptly with other Federal 
     land management agencies, State and local governments, State 
     wildlife agencies, and State and Federal animal health 
     professionals, including the Agricultural Research Service, 
     permittees, and stakeholders.
       Gay Mine Superfund.--The Bureau of Indian Affairs, the 
     Environmental Protection Agency, and the Bureau of Land 
     Management are directed to collaborate to provide a status 
     update to the Committees on reclamation efforts at the site 
     and potential reclamation solutions, as well as their efforts 
     to ensure engagement with the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes and 
     industry stakeholders, within 90 days of enactment of this 
     Act.
       Grizzly Bears.--Not less than 90 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Fish and Wildlife Service and the 
     National Park Service are directed to provide an in-depth 
     briefing regarding the draft environmental impact statement 
     and the accompanying 10(j) proposal under the Endangered 
     Species Act on the Establishment of a Nonessential 
     Experimental Population of Grizzly Bear in the North Cascades 
     Ecosystem. The Fish and Wildlife Service and the National 
     Park Service must also brief on their plans to work 
     collaboratively with Tribes, other Federal agencies, States, 
     local communities, and landowners on recovery actions for 
     this species.
       Lake Boehmer.--The Committees are concerned about high 
     levels of arsenic and radionuclide in Lake Boehmer and direct 
     the Department of the Interior and the Environmental 
     Protection Agency to provide a report within 90 days of 
     enactment of this Act identifying potential opportunities 
     within their existing authorities to work with the State of 
     Texas and the Middle Pecos Groundwater Conservation District 
     to assess the public health concerns at Lake Boehmer and 
     remediate the damage.
       Land Use.--The Committees direct the Bureau of Land 
     Management and other land management agencies to follow the 
     multiple use mandate, as required by Federal Land Policy and 
     Management Act (FLPMA), when developing resource management 
     plans (RMPs). During the RMP development process, land 
     management agencies are to take into account the long-term 
     needs of future generations for renewable and nonrenewable 
     resources including, but not limited to, recreation, range, 
     timber, minerals, watershed, wildlife and fish, natural 
     scenic, scientific and historical values. Additionally, plans 
     should be developed in close coordination and consultation 
     with local communities, State and Tribal governments, and 
     other stakeholders.
       Litigation.--The agreement does not include the language in 
     House Report 118-155 in the third paragraph under the heading 
     ``Cost of Litigation and Lack of Transparency.''
       National Parks and Public Land Legacy Restoration Fund.--
     The Committees emphasize that, pursuant to the Great American 
     Outdoors Act, project allocations are final and must be 
     adhered to.
       Onshore and Offshore Leasing.--The agreement does not 
     include the language in House Report 118-155 under the 
     headings ``Onshore and Offshore Leasing and Permitting 
     Transparency''; ``Pending Applications for Permits to 
     Drill''; ``Staff Planning''; and ``Public Availability of 
     Data.''
       Procurement of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).--The 
     Department of the Interior Office of Wildland Fire and the 
     Forest Service are directed to evaluate the provision of 
     supplies during this fire season and provide a briefing to 
     the Committees within 90 days of enactment of this Act on any 
     issues related to cost trends, supply chain or other 
     challenges to providing the appropriate materials. 
     Additionally, the briefing should cover the standard list of 
     PPE, any trends of regions with higher than average 
     replacement needs, regions with current higher than average 
     outstanding replacement needs and how replacement of such is 
     managed by the two agencies.
       Transportation Initiatives.--The agreement does not include 
     the funding direction in House Report 118-155 under the 
     headings ``Light-Duty Vehicle Fleet.''
       Water Rights.--The Committees direct the Forest Service and 
     the Department of the Interior to provide a briefing within 
     90 days of enactment of this Act on current authorities and 
     practices related to agency actions and water rights granted 
     under state law, including engagement with local landowners 
     and other constituents.

                    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 percent 
     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 2024 by agency, 
     account, activity, and project, including lists of specific 
     Federal land acquisition projects and Forest Legacy Program 
     projects. Additional tables provide 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. The Committees continue to 
     monitor the Department of the Interior and the Forest 
     Service's progress to ameliorate concerns with the appraisal 
     process and expect regular updates on these efforts.
       U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.--Fiscal year 2024 funds 
     provided to the Fish and Wildlife Service for the Flint Hills 
     Conservation Area shall only be used to acquire land 
     easements in areas which lie North of Township 22 South and/
     or East of Range 13 East, as well as those in Township 22 
     South and Range 3 East through Range 9 East, all of the Sixth 
     Principal Meridian within the U.S. Public Lands Survey 
     System.
       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.
       National Park Service.--The Committees are aware of 
     unobligated discretionary balances not associated with any 
     state or specific project within the Service's state 
     assistance programs. Further, since this discretionary 
     funding has passed the three-year time period for obligation, 
     a portion has been rescinded in this bill. Sufficient funding 
     is available for programs to continue at current levels. 
     Along with balances of prior year discretionary funding, the 
     Committees are also aware mandatory funds are starting to 
     accrue beyond the three-year window for formula grant 
     obligation and a reasonable timeframe for competitive grant 
     obligation. The Service is directed to brief the Committees 
     within 30 days of enactment of this Act regarding the status 
     of the mandatory balances and how reallocating unobligated 
     formula funding as part of the annual allocation to states in 
     the subsequent year could reduce those balances.
       Forest Legacy Program.--The Forest Service is directed to 
     use unobligated balances as

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     needed to complete all of the projects listed in the table 
     accompanying this explanatory statement.


                        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 
     either the House or Senate 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.--The bill provides 
     $1,294,916,000 for the Management of Lands and Resources 
     appropriation. The Bureau is expected to comply with the 
     instructions and requirements at the beginning of this 
     division and in House Report 118-155 and Senate Report 118-83 
     unless otherwise specified below.
       Wild Horse and Burro Management.--The agreement provides 
     $141,972,000 for wild horse and burro activities, including 
     up to $11,000,000 to continue implementation of a robust and 
     humane fertility control strategy of reversible 
     immunocontraceptive vaccines. The Bureau will follow the 
     directives included in the House and Senate Reports and the 
     explanatory statement accompanying Public Law 117-103. The 
     Committees appreciate the Bureau's commitment to quarterly 
     briefings on the state of the program and direct that these 
     briefings continue in fiscal year 2024.
       Land Management Priorities.--The bill provides $150,000 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.
       Wildlife Habitat Management.--The agreement provides 
     $142,980,000, 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.
       Legacy Wells.--The bill provides no less than $18,500,000 
     for legacy well remediation to continue progress toward 
     cleanup of the next cluster of legacy wells in need of 
     remediation.
       Resource Management Planning.--The bill provides 
     $68,000,000, which maintains $10,000,000 for sage-grouse.
       National Conservation Lands.--The agreement provides 
     $59,135,000, which includes $11,000,000 for the National 
     Scenic and Historic Trails program.
       Aquifer Recharge.--The Committees continue to direct the 
     Bureau to work with the State of Idaho to provide appropriate 
     access to Federal lands for the purposes of recharge 
     projects.

[[Page S1677]]

       Caldwell Canyon Project.--To address deficiencies 
     identified in Case No. 4:21-CV-00182-BLW and allow the 
     project, if authorized, to move forward in a timely manner, 
     the Committees direct the Secretary to consider issuing an 
     updated Record of Decision for the project by December 31, 
     2024.
       Domestic Coal.--The Bureau is directed to brief the 
     Committees regarding barriers to finalizing pending lease 
     applications for metallurgical (met) coal within 60 days of 
     enactment of this Act. The Bureau should include a discussion 
     of distinctions between how current policies impact met coal 
     and thermal coal.
       Local Governments.--The agreement does not include the 
     House direction on Local Governments.
       Oregon/Washington State Office.--The Bureau is reminded to 
     follow and implement the directives included in the 
     previously referenced House and Senate Reports, including on 
     the Western Oregon Operating Plan fire protection agreement.
       Consultation.--Prior to the finalization of the Proposed 
     Rule for Management and Protection of the National Petroleum 
     Reserve in Alaska (Fed. Register Number 2023-18990), the 
     Committees direct the Secretary to consider engaging in 
     additional meaningful, in-person consultations with any 
     federally recognized Tribes and Alaska Native Claims 
     Settlement Act Corporations affected by the proposed rule.


                   OREGON AND CALIFORNIA GRANT LANDS

       The bill provides $115,521,000 for the Oregon and 
     California Grant Lands appropriation. Specific allocations at 
     the activity level are contained in the table at the back of 
     this explanatory statement. The Bureau shall utilize balances 
     in the Forest Ecosystem Health and Recovery Fund as necessary 
     to continue the activities funded within this account. The 
     Bureau is reminded to follow the directives under this 
     heading included in previously referenced House and Senate 
     Reports.


                           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 $1,520,273,000 for Resource Management. 
     The Service is expected to comply with the instructions and 
     requirements at the beginning of this division and in House 
     Report 118-155 and Senate Report 118-83 unless otherwise 
     specified below. All programs and activities are funded at 
     the amounts enacted in fiscal year 2023 unless otherwise 
     specified below or in the table at the end of this division, 
     and account levels are achieved through adjustments in 
     General Program Activities.
       Planning and Consultation.--The agreement provides 
     $118,191,000, which maintains $4,000,000 for Gulf Coast 
     restoration activities, $1,000,000 for pesticide 
     consultations and provides $93,706,000 for general program 
     activities.
       Conservation and Restoration.--The agreement provides 
     $37,571,000 for conservation and restoration activities, 
     which maintains the enacted level for Marine Mammals which 
     includes $500,000 for the Alaska Nannut Co-Management Council 
     (ANCC) and $250,000 for the Eskimo Walrus Commission (EWC); 
     and provides $14,538,000 for candidate conservation.
       Recovery.--The agreement provides $110,522,000 for 
     activities in support of the recovery and delisting of 
     threatened and endangered species, which includes $10,500,000 
     for Recovery Challenge grants and maintains the enacted 
     allocation between continuing partnerships and new 
     partnerships; $4,750,000 for the State of the Birds; 
     $2,300,000 for the Prescott Grant program; $1,000,000 for the 
     wolf-livestock demonstration program; $350,000 for Florida 
     Grasshopper Sparrow; and $83,590,000 for general program 
     activities.
       Habitat Conservation.--The agreement provides $72,000,000 
     for habitat conservation programs, of which $59,000,000 is 
     for the Partners for Fish and Wildlife program including 
     $3,200,000 for the nutria eradication project; $1,285,000 for 
     Klamath River Habitat Restoration and $1,285,000 for 
     Washington Regional Fisheries; and $48,740,000 for general 
     program activities. The bill provides $13,000,000 for the 
     Coastal Program, including $11,778,000 for general program 
     activities.
       National Wildlife Refuge System.--The agreement provides 
     $527,035,000 for the National Wildlife Refuge System.
       Wildlife and Habitat Management.--The agreement provides 
     $3,000,000 for nutria eradication; $16,925,000 for invasive 
     species to focus on high priority invasive species including 
     nutria and cheatgrass; $25,924,000 for inventory and 
     monitoring; $2,500,000 for Marine National Monuments adhering 
     to direction in House Report 118-155 for the Northeast 
     Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument; and $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 Refuge.
       Subsistence Management.--The Office of Subsistence 
     Management function and funding has been moved from the 
     Service and is provided for within the Office of the 
     Secretary.
       Visitor Services.--The agreement includes $76,000,000, 
     which includes $7,000,000 for the Urban Wildlife Refuge 
     Partnership program; $2,500,000 for Youth and Careers in 
     Nature including $500,000 for Arctic Youth.
       Conservation and Enforcement.--The agreement provides 
     $173,664,000 for other conservation and enforcement programs 
     as described below.
       Migratory Bird Management.--The agreement provides 
     $53,212,000 which includes $30,400,000 for Conservation and 
     Monitoring; $5,400,000 for Permits; $591,000 for the Federal 
     Duck Stamp program; and $16,821,000 for the North American 
     Waterfowl Management Plan/Joint Ventures program.
       Law Enforcement.--The agreement provides $91,859,000 for 
     law enforcement activities, including $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), maintains $8,500,000 for Wildlife Trafficking, and 
     $910,000 for equipment replacement.
       International Affairs.--The agreement provides $28,593,000, 
     which includes $9,900,000 for International Conservation and 
     maintains $2,500,000 for Wildlife Trafficking, and 
     $18,693,000 for International Wildlife Trade which includes 
     $8,700,000 for permit modernization and $793,000 for Wildlife 
     Trafficking.
       Fish and Aquatic Conservation.--The agreement provides 
     $226,793,000 for fish and aquatic conservation programs.
       National Fish Hatchery System Operations.--The agreement 
     provides $75,105,000, which includes: $1,200,000 for Aquatic 
     Animal Drug Approval Partnership; $3,750,000 for Klamath 
     Basin restoration activities; $4,700,000 for mitigation of 
     the Pacific Salmon Treaty and directs the Service to follow 
     the guidance outlined in Senate Report 118-83; and $8,000,000 
     for the Warm Springs Fish Health Center. The Theodore 
     Roosevelt Genius Prize is maintained at the fiscal year 2023 
     enacted level.
       Habitat Assessment and Restoration.--The agreement provides 
     $47,832,000, which includes $268,000 for the Chehalis 
     Fisheries Restoration Program; $11,500,000 to implement the 
     Delaware River Basin Conservation Act; $15,000,000 for the 
     National Fish Passage Program following the guidance outlined 
     in Senate Report 118-83; $9,750,000 to implement Klamath 
     Basin restoration activities; and $200,000 for the Truckee 
     River Operating Agreement.
       Population Assessment and Cooperative Management.--The 
     agreement provides $28,613,000, which includes $1,600,000 for 
     Alaska Fisheries Subsistence; $1,000,000 for Great Lakes 
     Consent Decree; $3,000,000 for Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife 
     Restoration Act grants; and $818,000 for the Lake Champlain 
     Sea lamprey program.
       Aquatic Invasive Species.--The agreement includes 
     $50,143,000 for aquatic invasive species programs, of which 
     $5,038,000 is to implement subsection 5(d)(2) of the Lake 
     Tahoe Restoration Act; $2,749,000 is for Prevention; 
     $31,000,000 is for invasive carp as outlined in Senate Report 
     118-83 including not less than $4,000,000 for contract 
     fishing; $2,834,000 for National Invasive Species Act of 1996 
     (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 allocated 
     per the enacted levels; $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.
       Science Support.--The agreement provides $33,781,000 for 
     Science Support which includes $24,931,000 for Science 
     Partnerships and $8,850,000 for Service Science. The bill 
     provides $1,931,000 for Gulf Coast ecosystem restoration; 
     $8,000,000 for Chesapeake WILD; and $3,500,000 for white-nose 
     syndrome.
       Stewardship Priorities.--The agreement provides $44,920,000 
     in congressionally directed spending for stewardship projects 
     to further conservation goals. A detailed list of projects is 
     included in the table titled ``Interior and Environment 
     Incorporation of Community Project Funding Items/
     Congressionally Directed Spending Items'' accompanying this 
     explanatory statement.
       Everglades.--The agreement continues support for the 
     Everglades at not less than the fiscal year 2023 enacted 
     level.
       American Bison.--The Committees direct the Department to 
     provide a comprehensive briefing within 90 days of enactment 
     of this Act detailing plans regarding the possible 
     introduction of bison to the Charles M. Russell National 
     Wildlife Refuge and actions related to Secretarial Order 
     3410, including consultations with the State of Montana and 
     Tribal governments. The briefing should also highlight the 
     implications for elk and other wildlife, grazing lands, and 
     the safety of the general public.
       Ecosystem Restoration Infrastructure Improvements.--
     Critical components of salmon and steelhead hatcheries, adult 
     fish traps, and juvenile release facilities along the lower 
     Snake River and in the Columbia River Basin are aging and in 
     need of repair and improvement. The Committees encourage the 
     Service to continue dialogue with its partners to come to a 
     workable solution on these improvements in fiscal year 2024.

[[Page S1678]]

       Employee Assistance.--The Committees direct the Service to 
     provide a briefing within 90 days of enactment of this Act on 
     the virtual workshops titled ``Acknowledging Ecological Grief 
     and Building Resiliency.''
       Endangered Species Act.--The Committees understand that the 
     listing of such species including the Lesser Prairie-Chicken, 
     Northern Long-eared Bat, Dunes Sagebrush Lizard, and the 
     Texas Kangaroo Rat under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) may 
     have on-the-ground impacts. The Committees direct the Service 
     to continue to collaborate with local communities, States, 
     Federal agencies, Tribal governments, and stakeholders on 
     improving voluntary solutions to conserve species with the 
     goal of avoiding the necessity of listing the aforementioned 
     species under the ESA and provide the Committees with a 
     briefing on such efforts within 90 days of enactment of this 
     Act.


                              CONSTRUCTION

       The bill provides $19,280,000 for Construction, which 
     includes $11,265,000 for line-item construction projects. The 
     agreement continues to support the Service's objective 
     priority-setting process and expects the Service to follow 
     the priority list and submit a spend plan to the Committees 
     within 90 days of enactment of this Act for how it plans to 
     allocate the funds provided in the bill. No funding is 
     provided for fleet related infrastructure and field 
     communication modernization. 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 $23,000,000 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 
     $40,606,999 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 $49,000,000 for the North American 
     Wetlands Conservation Fund.


              NEOTROPICAL MIGRATORY BIRD CONSERVATION FUND

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


                MULTINATIONAL SPECIES CONSERVATION FUND

       The bill provides $20,500,000 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 $72,384,000 for State and Tribal Wildlife 
     Grants. The detailed allocation of funding by activity is 
     included in the table at the end of this explanatory 
     statement.

                         National Park Service


                 OPERATION OF THE NATIONAL PARK SYSTEM

       The bill provides $2,888,424,000 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, in House Report 118-155, and in 
     Senate Report 118-83, 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 2024 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 of developing an updated methodology 
     to improve the budgeting process.
       Additional funding guidance is provided below.
       Resource Stewardship.--The bill provides $398,820,000 for 
     Resource Stewardship, including: $5,300,000 for the 
     Partnership Wild & Scenic Rivers program and other similarly 
     managed rivers; $2,000,000 for Active Forest Management at 
     national parks; $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 Committees continue the 
     directive provided in the Joint Explanatory Statement 
     accompanying Public Law 117-328 regarding the distribution of 
     funds for the National Networks.
       Visitor Services.--The bill provides $277,635,000 for 
     Visitor Services, including no less than $2,000,000 for 
     efforts to expand recreational fishing, camping, and 
     instruction focusing on introductory recreation experiences 
     in parks throughout the year in a variety of recreational 
     activities such as paddling, climbing, hiking, cycling, and 
     snowshoeing. Funding is also provided at not less than the 
     enacted level for the Indian Youth Service Corps, and the 
     enacted level for the volunteers in parks program, 
     interpretation and education program, and the youth 
     partnership program.
       National Capital Area Performing Arts Program.--Funding is 
     provided at the enacted level and the Service is reminded to 
     follow the directives contained in the fiscal year 2024 House 
     and Senate Reports regarding the National Capital Area 
     Performing Arts Program.
       Facilities Operations and Maintenance.--The agreement 
     recommends $188,184,000 for cyclic maintenance, and 
     $110,980,000 for repair and rehabilitation projects.
       Park Protection.--The bill provides $426,076,000 for park 
     protection, including $950,000 for veterans' fire corps.
       National Park Foundation.--The agreement provides 
     $10,000,000 for the National Park Foundation and encourages 
     investments focused on housing deficiencies.
       Additional Guidance.--The following additional guidance is 
     included:
       Air Tours.--The Committees are aware that the Service is 
     evaluating plans to limit the number of air tours at certain 
     parks. The Service is reminded that these are public lands, 
     and ensuring access for all people, including disabled 
     veterans and the elderly, is an important aspect of the 
     Service's mission. No steps should be taken to reduce the 
     number of air tours in the absence of meaningful 
     justifications.
       Glacier National Park.--The Committees are concerned about 
     the potential impacts the Service's vehicle reservation 
     system at Glacier National Park may have. The Service is 
     directed to brief the Committees no later than 90 days after 
     the enactment of this Act on what alternative approaches to 
     visitor management could be used that prioritize and enhance 
     opportunities for local residents and communities to access 
     the park.
       Pilot Program.--In lieu of the language in House Report 
     118-155, under the heading ``Pilot Program,'' the agreement 
     notes that the Service should consider conducting pilot 
     programs for the purpose of improving and increasing access 
     for U.S. military members and their dependents, Gold Star 
     Families, and military veterans with a Military Lifetime or 
     Annual Pass at parks that require a reservation for park 
     entrance. The Service shall update the Committees on an 
     ongoing basis.
       Roosevelt-Campobello International Park Commission.--
     Funding for the Roosevelt Campobello International Park is 
     supported at no less than the fiscal year 2023 level. The 
     Service is directed to continue to follow the direction 
     contained in the statement of managers accompanying the 
     Consolidated Appropriation Act, 2016 (Public Law 114-113) 
     concerning the submission of future budget requests for the 
     Roosevelt-Campobello International Park.


                  NATIONAL RECREATION AND PRESERVATION

       The bill provides $91,233,000 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; $4,000,000 for the 
     competitive grant program, as authorized by the 9/11 Memorial 
     Act (Public Law 115-413); $3,592,000 for grants 
     administration, and other cultural programs are funded at the 
     enacted level.
       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.
       Heritage Partnership Programs.--The bill provides 
     $29,232,000 for Heritage Partnership Programs. The Committees 
     provide sufficient funding for each heritage area to receive 
     no less than the amount provided in fiscal year 2023. The 
     directive contained in the explanatory statement that 
     accompanied Public Law 116-6 with regards to funding 
     distribution is continued.


                       HISTORIC PRESERVATION FUND

       The bill provides $188,666,000 for historic preservation.
       Competitive Grants.--The bill provides $24,000,000 for the 
     African American Civil Rights Grants, equal to the enacted 
     level. Additionally, $5,000,000 is provided for the History 
     of Equal Rights grants and $1,250,000 for grants to 
     underrepresented communities.
       Paul Bruhn Historic Revitalization Grants.--The bill 
     provides $10,000,000 for historic revitalization grants and 
     retains the directives regarding the distribution of funding 
     included in Senate Report 116-123.
       Save America's Treasures.--The bill provides $25,500,000 
     for the Save America's Treasures program. 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 
     $7,000,000 for the Service to assist states in preparing for 
     the upcoming Semiquincentennial celebration and to celebrate 
     the Nation's history. The Committees retain the directives 
     regarding the distribution of funding included in Senate 
     Report 118-83.

[[Page S1679]]

  



                              CONSTRUCTION

       The bill provides $172,255,000 for construction.
       Line-Item Construction.--Funding for line-item construction 
     projects is provided as outlined in the table contained in 
     this statement. Project allocations are based on updated 
     information provided by the Service regarding which projects 
     are expected to be ready for construction in fiscal year 2024 
     and which projects are expected to be ready for construction 
     in a subsequent fiscal year.

                                            (In thousands of dollars)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                  State                         Unit or Program                 Project           Funding Amount
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OR......................................  Crater Lake NP............  Rehabilitate Cleetwood              49,300
                                                                       Trail and Marina.
HI......................................  Kalaupapa NHP.............  Install Fuel Tanks to                9,700
                                                                       Ensure Park Continued
                                                                       Operation.
DC......................................  White House...............  Upgrade Utilities Project           15,600
                                                                       F, and Project G--Phase
                                                                       II.
                                                                                                 ---------------
    Total...............................  ..........................  ..........................          74,600
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Emergency and Unscheduled Projects.--The bill provides a 
     total of $3,848,000 in funding for emergency and unscheduled 
     projects within base funding, equal to the enacted level. 
     These funds support the Service in responding after 
     facilities and resources are damaged or destroyed in 
     emergencies.


                          CENTENNIAL CHALLENGE

       The bill provides $12,000,000 for the Centennial Challenge 
     matching grant program.

            Administrative Provisions--National Park Service


             (INCLUDING TRANSFER AND RESCISSIONS OF FUNDS)

       The bill rescinds unobligated balances from the 
     ``Construction'' account from fiscal year 2021 or prior.
       The bill rescinds unobligated balances from the 
     ``Construction'' account for equipment replacement from 
     fiscal year 2023.

                    United States Geological Survey


                 SURVEYS, INVESTIGATIONS, AND RESEARCH

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The bill provides $1,455,434,000 for Surveys, 
     Investigations, and Research of the U.S. Geological Survey 
     (USGS, or the Survey). All programs and activities are funded 
     at the amounts enacted in fiscal year 2023 unless otherwise 
     specified below or in the table at the end of this division, 
     along with any necessary funding reductions to be taken from 
     general program activities. The Survey is expected to comply 
     with the instructions and requirements at the beginning of 
     this division and in House Report 118-155 and Senate Report 
     118-83 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.
       Environmental Health Program.--The agreement provides 
     $29,543,000 for Environmental Health which includes funding 
     for Harmful Algal Blooms and PFAS Research, including 
     research in the Ceded Territories of the Great Lakes, at the 
     fiscal year 2023 enacted level.
       Species Management Research Program.--The agreement 
     provides $62,348,000 and maintains funding at the fiscal year 
     2023 enacted level for the U.S. National Phenology Network 
     and Hawaiian Forest Birds. The Committees direct USGS to 
     provide a report within 180 days of enactment of this Act on 
     other potential geographic or mission areas that could help 
     to address gaps in the Survey's research goals, including 
     examining those areas without a wildlife Cooperative Research 
     Unit (CRU), those in the Appalachian Mountain and Mississippi 
     Delta region, or those that could support the work of 
     interstate and/or international fishery commissions. Further, 
     language related to interstate/international fishery 
     commissions under the paragraph titled Cooperative Research 
     Units Program in Senate Report 118-83 only applies to this 
     program.
       Land Management Research Program.--The agreement provides 
     $52,000,000, which supports activities in the Chesapeake Bay 
     and all priority geographic landscapes and ecosystems, 
     including the Everglades, at the fiscal year 2023 enacted 
     level.
       Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program.--
     The agreement provides $44,500,000, including funding for 
     research on European Green Crab, Coral Disease, phytoplankton 
     changes in the Great Lakes, and Chronic Wasting Disease at 
     the fiscal year 2023 enacted level. The Committees maintain 
     $11,000,000 for research of invasive carp, of which 
     $3,000,000 is for research on containing or eradicating grass 
     carp.
       Climate Adaptation Science Center and Land Change Science 
     Program.--The agreement provides $82,780,000 of which 
     $63,115,000 is for the National and Regional Climate 
     Adaptation Science Centers (CASC) and $19,665,000 is for Land 
     Change Science.
       USGS is directed to provide a report to the Committees 
     within 180 days of enactment of this Act on the benefits and 
     costs associated with creating a distinct center that would 
     focus on and address threats to ecosystems in the Great Basin 
     but would not duplicate the work of the Southwest CASC.
       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.
       Great Lakes Science.--Funding for the Great Lakes Science 
     Center is maintained at the fiscal year 2023 enacted level.
       Energy and Mineral Resources.--The agreement provides 
     $101,093,000 for Energy and Mineral Resources. Mineral 
     Resources is funded at $68,729,000. The critical minerals 
     Earth Mapping Resources Initiative (Earth MRI) and critical 
     mineral mapping efforts in Alaska are funded at the fiscal 
     year 2023 enacted level.
       The Committees encourage USGS to develop comprehensive 
     geologic mapping to conduct a study on lithium resources and 
     recovery, including in those areas of the United States with 
     a large concentration of lithium resources and the 
     infrastructure to develop those resources.
       Energy Resources is funded at $32,364,000 and the agreement 
     maintains funding at the fiscal year 2023 enacted level for 
     the understanding of alkalinity sources for carbon 
     mineralization with a focus on mapping and assessing 
     resources along with associated impacts.
       Natural Hazards.--The agreement provides $198,636,000 for 
     the Natural Hazards Program, including $92,651,000 for 
     earthquake hazards. Within this funding, $28,600,000 is 
     provided for continued development and expansion of the 
     ShakeAlert West Coast earthquake early warning (EEW). The 
     Committees direct USGS to work with States to secure any 
     additional funding necessary.
       The agreement continues the enacted level of funding for 
     the national seismic hazard map, including for expansion to 
     Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, and for regional 
     seismic networks including operating and maintaining USArray 
     stations, Subduction Zone science, and earthquakes in Alaska.
       The agreement provides $37,500,000 for volcano hazards. 
     Funding for the National Volcano Early Warning and Monitoring 
     System (NVEWS) and Volcanic Hazard Assessments is maintained 
     at the fiscal year 2023 enacted level.
       The agreement includes $14,432,000 for Landslide Hazards, 
     which includes funding at the fiscal year 2023 enacted levels 
     for Cooperative Landslide Hazards and Assessment Competitive 
     Grant Program, Actionable Landslide Hazard Data and Science, 
     and Landslide Hazard Assessments in Alaska as outlined in 
     Senate Report 118-83.
       The agreement provides $5,198,000 for Geomagnetism 
     including no less than the fiscal year 2023 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 $288,772,000 for 
     Water Resources, and maintains $66,529,000, the fiscal year 
     2023 enacted level, for activities associated with the 
     Cooperative Matching Funds. Water Availability and Use 
     Science is funded at $67,296,000, which funds Integrated 
     Water Prediction, Open ET software system, the Mississippi 
     Alluvial Plan (MAP) for a groundwater decision support 
     system, an Integrated Water Availability Assessment (IWAA) 
     study on hydrology of saline lakes, the U.S. Mexico 
     Transboundary Aquifer, and streamflow permanence modeling in 
     the Pacific Northwest at the fiscal year 2023 enacted levels.
       USGS is directed to continue its efforts to establish the 
     Hydrologic Science Talent Pipeline and to use $2,000,000 
     within the Water Availability and Use Science Program and 
     $2,000,000 within the National Groundwater and Streamflow 
     Information Program to continue to pursue cooperative 
     research agreements with an emphasis on locations where USGS 
     has pending hydrological facilities and where there are other 
     Federal operational hydrologic resources. The Committees 
     encourage USGS to consider universities in Western States to 
     support building capacity and expertise in groundwater 
     hydrologic sciences.
       The Committees also encourage USGS to provide a report 
     within 180 days of enactment of this Act outlining the costs 
     and benefits of developing a training and development program 
     to attract, train, and develop early career researchers and a 
     workforce that can engage with Tribal groups and local 
     stakeholders in addressing pressing water issues, including 
     in the Western Great Basin and Sierra Nevada.
       Groundwater and Streamflow Information is funded at 
     $109,976,000, which supports Federal Priority Streamgages, 
     Ohio River Supergages, Streamgages for Transboundary Rivers, 
     including the Unuk River gage, Kootenai watershed, and the 
     Klamath Basin at the fiscal year 2023 enacted level. Funding 
     for the Next Generation Water Observing System (NGWOS) is 
     included at the fiscal year 2023 enacted level to continue 
     work with universities and other partners to develop 
     innovative water resource sensor technologies that are 
     scalable to regional and national monitoring networks.

[[Page S1680]]

       The agreement includes $96,000,000 for the National Water 
     Quality program which includes $7,490,000 for harmful algal 
     bloom research.
       Water Resources Research Act Program.--The agreement 
     provides $15,500,000, maintaining the enacted level of 
     funding and distribution. The Committees direct USGS to 
     provide a briefing within 180 days of enactment of this Act 
     on grant allocations.
       Special Initiatives.--The agreement provides an additional 
     amount of $5,237,000 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 $273,221,000.
       The National Geospatial program is funded at $89,650,000 
     and maintains funding at the fiscal year 2023 enacted level 
     for the 3D National Topography Model, 3D Elevation Program 
     (3DEP) including for Federal lands in western states, and 
     Alaska Mapping and Modernization, and the National Digital 
     Trails project.
       The National Land Imaging program is funded at $115,071,000 
     which includes $95,334,000 for Satellite Operations and 
     $1,456,000 for the Remote Sensing State Grants program.
       Science Support.--The agreement includes $105,000,000 which 
     provides $81,500,000 for Administration and Management, of 
     which $2,667,000 is for scientific integrity, and $23,500,000 
     is for Information Services.

                   Bureau of Ocean Energy Management


                        OCEAN ENERGY MANAGEMENT

       The bill provides $211,162,000 for the Ocean Energy 
     Management appropriation, which is partially offset through 
     the collection of rental receipts and cost recovery fees 
     totaling $56,000,000, resulting in a net appropriation of 
     $155,162,000. Specific allocations at the activity level are 
     contained in the table accompanying this explanatory 
     statement.
       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)). As noted in the House Report, the Committees 
     expect the Bureau to prioritize finalizing regulations for 
     geologic carbon sequestration.
       Decommissioning Account.--The bill includes a provision 
     establishing a new separate Treasury account to facilitate 
     the transfer of financial assurance funds between the Bureau 
     of Ocean Energy Management, which is responsible for calling 
     bonds and collecting associated funds, and the Bureau of 
     Safety and Environmental Enforcement, which is responsible 
     for ensuring the decommissioning work occurs.

             Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement


             OFFSHORE SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL ENFORCEMENT

       The bill provides $205,330,000 for the Offshore Safety and 
     Environmental Enforcement appropriation. This amount is 
     partially offset through the collection of rental receipts, 
     cost recovery fees and inspection fees totaling $66,000,000, 
     resulting in a net appropriation of $139,330,000. 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.

          Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement


                       REGULATION AND TECHNOLOGY

       The bill provides $116,186,000 for the Regulation and 
     Technology appropriation.


                    ABANDONED MINE RECLAMATION FUND

       The bill provides $162,546,000 for the Abandoned Mine 
     Reclamation Fund appropriation. Of the funds provided, 
     $32,546,000 shall be derived from the Abandoned Mine 
     Reclamation Fund and $130,000,000 shall be derived from the 
     General Fund.
       Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization (AMLER).--The 
     bill provides a total of $130,000,000 for direct payments 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 2024, $86,000,000 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; 
     $33,000,000 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 $11,000,000 shall be for 
     direct payments to federally recognized Indian Tribes. The 
     Committees expect the Office to improve collaboration with 
     States and Tribes and to process outstanding 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 $1,898,550,000 for Operation of Indian 
     Programs. All Tribal Priority Allocation (TPA) programs and 
     Public Safety and Justice programs are continued at the 
     fiscal year 2023 enacted level and dispositions of other 
     programs and activities are specified below or reflected in 
     the table accompanying this joint explanatory statement. 
     Internal transfers within the accounts proposed in the fiscal 
     year 2024 budget request have been accepted. 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 118-155 
     and Senate Report 118-83, unless otherwise specified below. 
     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.
       Fort Hall Indian Reservation Boundary Investigation.--The 
     Committees understand the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA or 
     Bureau) is actively engaging in discussions with the 
     Shoshone-Bannock Tribes of Fort Hall regarding the Bureau of 
     Land Management's Fort Hall Indian Reservation Boundary 
     Investigation of June 1, 2018. The Committees direct BIA to 
     provide a status update on these engagements and potential 
     solutions within 90 days of enactment of this Act.
       Tribal Government.--The agreement provides $398,987,000 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.
       The agreement includes $39,190,000 for the Road Maintenance 
     program, which continues funding at the 2023 enacted level 
     for school bus roads and the NATIVE Act (Public Law 114-22).
       Human Services.--The bill provides $163,747,000 for Human 
     Services programs. The agreement provides funding for the 
     Housing Improvement Program and Indian Child Welfare Act 
     (ICWA) activities equal to the fiscal year 2023 enacted 
     level. The Committees direct the Bureau to work closely with 
     the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) to help 
     State agencies maintain and improve upon their 
     responsibilities required by 42 USC 622(b)(9) to Indian 
     children under ICWA. The Bureau should provide a briefing to 
     the Committees within 180 days of enactment of this Act on 
     its interagency work with ACF and Tribal consultations, 
     including identifying any hurdles and obstacles to improving 
     State agencies' compliance with ICWA.
       For fiscal year 2024, the Committees expect funding to 
     existing Tiwahe pilot programs to continue in the same 
     amounts to the same recipients including funding to support 
     women's and children's shelters.
       Within 90 days of enactment of this Act, the Committees 
     direct the Bureau to provide a report of those Tribes that 
     have not been able to receive BIA social services activities 
     pursuant to a self-determination contract or self-governance 
     compact. The report should include the amount of additional 
     funding required to provide parity in funding with other 
     Tribes.
       Trust-Natural Resources Management.--The bill provides 
     $322,349,000 for Natural Resources Management programs. The 
     agreement provides $34,291,000 for competitive awards to 
     support critically vulnerable coastal Tribal communities and 
     Alaska Native Villages that experience severe weather-related 
     conditions jeopardizing public safety and health and supports 
     the eligibility of all Tribes for funding.
       For the Tribal Management/Development Program, the 
     Committees expect the Bureau to provide no less than the 
     fiscal year 2023 enacted level for the existing programs 
     including fish and wildlife conservation efforts in the 
     Northwest and Great Lakes regions, Salmon Steelhead Inventory 
     and Assessment program, InterTribal Buffalo Council, and 
     other bison and buffalo projects.
       It is the Committees' expectation that within the funding 
     provided, pilot projects and programs for Alaska subsistence 
     will continue at the fiscal year 2023 enacted level. The 
     Bureau is directed to report to the Committees within 60 days 
     of enactment of this Act on a distribution plan for these 
     funds.
       The Committees support the request to move the land 
     acquisition funding line from the Natural Resources (TPA) 
     budget subactivity to a separate line within the Trust-Real 
     Estate Services subactivity to offer Tribes greater 
     flexibility. The agreement maintains funding at the 
     authorized and the fiscal year 2023 enacted level.
       The agreement provides $49,200,000 for Rights Protection 
     Implementation (RPI), which maintains funding for law 
     enforcement needs, operations and maintenance needs, 
     implementation of the Columbia River In-Lieu, Treaty Fishing 
     Access Sites Improvement Act (Public Law 116-99), and the 
     U.S. Canada Pacific Salmon Treaty at the fiscal year 2023 
     enacted level.
       The agreement provides funding at the fiscal year 2023 
     enacted level for Agriculture and Range programs, which 
     includes the invasive species program and supports efforts to 
     address the problem of the European Green Crab that are 
     impacting marine resources for Tribal communities in the 
     Pacific Northwest.
       The agreement provides the fiscal year 2023 enacted level 
     for Tribal priority allocations

[[Page S1681]]

     for Forestry, Water Resources, and Energy and Minerals budget 
     lines along with adjustments to those budget lines which are 
     grant or project based. Fish, Wildlife, and Parks activities 
     are maintained at the fiscal year 2023 enacted level.
       Trust-Real Estate Services.--The bill provides $165,887,000 
     for Trust-Real Estate Services which includes the internal 
     transfers of $7,096,000 from the Bureau of Trust Funds 
     Administration for the Office of Hearings and Appeals Probate 
     Hearings Division and $2,000,000 for land acquisition as 
     previously discussed. Funding is continued at the fiscal year 
     2023 enacted level for the Land Title and Records Offices and 
     for the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act, which includes 
     funding for historical places.
       Public Safety and Justice.--The bill provides $555,559,000 
     for Public Safety and Justice programs. Funding is maintained 
     at the fiscal year 2023 enacted level for Criminal 
     Investigations and Police Services, including the nationwide 
     body worn camera program, the advanced training facility, the 
     Indian Police Academy, and Detentions/Corrections. The 
     agreement maintains $62,000,000 to implement public safety 
     changes resulting from the McGirt v. Oklahoma Supreme Court 
     decision.
       For Tribal Justice Support, $34,836,000, the fiscal year 
     2023 enacted level, is provided, which maintains funding to 
     implement and ensure compliance with the Violence Against 
     Women Act. Funding for PL 280 Tribal courts is maintained at 
     the fiscal year 2023 enacted level and should be distributed 
     in a manner consistent to prior years as outlined in Senate 
     Report 118-83.
       The agreement provides funding at the fiscal year 2023 
     enacted level for the Safeguarding Tribal Objects of 
     Patrimony (STOP) Act and other related laws.
       The agreement continues funding at the fiscal year 2023 
     enacted level for the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women 
     (MMIW) Tribal Public Safety initiative, Tiwahe recidivism 
     initiative, equipment to collect and preserve evidence at 
     crime scenes, and victim witness specialists. 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 the fiscal year 2023 enacted level. 
     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.
       Public Law 83-280 Needs.--The Committees note that a number 
     of States with large Indian populations have no law 
     enforcement presence in Tribal communities and Alaska Native 
     Villages despite high crime rates; however, these Tribes are 
     not eligible for certain Native justice funding simply 
     because they are located in Public Law 280 States. Within 180 
     days of enactment of this Act, the Bureau is directed to 
     conduct Tribal consultation on the budgetary needs of Tribal 
     law enforcement, including wellness courts and other 
     essential judicial needs for the Tribes in these States, and 
     report back to the Committees on the available Federal 
     funding, within the Department of the Interior or elsewhere, 
     for these Tribes or outlining the barriers to the development 
     of such funding.
       Community and Economic Development.--The bill provides 
     $30,546,000 for Community and Economic Development programs, 
     which maintains funding at the fiscal year 2023 enacted level 
     for language immersion grants. The agreement also maintains 
     funding at the fiscal year 2023 enacted level for business 
     incubators, which includes the $500,000 increase provided in 
     fiscal year 2023.
       NATIVE Act Implementation.--The Committees emphasize the 
     language in Senate Report 118-83 regarding implementation of 
     the NATIVE Act and direct BIA to recognize its role in 
     strengthening and coordinating Native American tourism 
     programs within relevant Federal agencies, in accordance with 
     the underlying statute. Within 90 days of enactment of this 
     Act, the Committees direct BIA to provide a briefing on how 
     it is engaging qualified Native-led non-profit organizations, 
     how it will implement a NATIVE Act MOU, and plans to improve 
     Native tourism collaboration within the Federal government in 
     future years.
       Executive Direction and Administrative Services.--The bill 
     includes $260,634,000 for Executive Direction and 
     Administrative Services, including maintaining the fiscal 
     year 2023 enacted level for the Native boarding school 
     initiative. The bill includes $841,000 for Special 
     Initiatives identified in the table titled ``Interior and 
     Environment Incorporation of Community Project Funding Items/
     Congressionally Directed Spending Items'' accompanying this 
     explanatory statement.


                       INDIAN LAND CONSOLIDATION

       The bill provides $4,000,000 for Indian Land Consolidation.


                         CONTRACT SUPPORT COSTS

       The bill provides an indefinite appropriation for contract 
     support costs, consistent with fiscal year 2023 and estimated 
     to be $342,000,000 in fiscal year 2024. The bill does not 
     include the budget proposal to make these costs mandatory.


                       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 2023 
     and estimated to be $64,000,000 in fiscal year 2024. The bill 
     does not include the budget proposal to make these costs 
     mandatory.


                              CONSTRUCTION

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The bill provides $133,780,000 for Construction. The 
     detailed allocation of funding is included in the table at 
     the end of this explanatory statement.
       Other Program Construction.--The bill provides funding at 
     the fiscal year 2023 enacted level for the project at Fort 
     Peck.
       The Committees are aware of challenges with the ability of 
     the San Carlos Irrigation Project's power system to purchase 
     power when there are fluctuations in market conditions. The 
     Bureau should keep the Committees updated regarding 
     challenges of the project to purchase power.


 INDIAN LAND AND WATER CLAIM SETTLEMENTS AND MISCELLANEOUS PAYMENTS TO 
                                INDIANS

       The bill provides $976,000 for Indian Land and Water Claim 
     Settlements and Miscellaneous Payments to Indians.


                 INDIAN GUARANTEED LOAN PROGRAM ACCOUNT

       The bill provides $13,329,000 for the Indian Guaranteed 
     Loan Program Account to facilitate business investments in 
     Indian Country. Additional details are included in the bill 
     language.

                       Bureau of Indian Education


                 OPERATION OF INDIAN EDUCATION PROGRAMS

       Bureau of Indian Education.--The bill includes 
     $1,131,617,000 for Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) Operation 
     of Indian Education Programs. All programs, projects, and 
     activities are maintained at fiscal year 2023 enacted levels 
     and all internal transfers proposed in the fiscal year 2024 
     budget request are accepted. Native immersion grants are 
     funded at the fiscal year 2023 enacted level. 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 118-155 
     and Senate Report 118-83, unless otherwise specified below. 
     The agreement outlines funding levels in the detailed table 
     accompanying this joint explanatory statement.
       Elementary/Secondary Programs (forward funded).--The bill 
     includes $706,185,000 for Elementary/Secondary Programs. ISEP 
     Formula Funds, ISEP Program Adjustments, and Tribal grant 
     support costs are funded at the fiscal year 2023 enacted 
     level.
       Post Secondary Programs (forward funded).--The agreement 
     provides $127,407,000 for Post Secondary Programs, which 
     maintains funding at the fiscal year 2023 enacted level for 
     Haskell and Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute, Tribal 
     Colleges and Universities, including Tribal endowment grants, 
     and Tribal Technical Colleges.
       Chemawa Indian School.--The Committees are highly concerned 
     with the findings included in the recent audit published by 
     the Department's Office of Inspector General regarding the 
     financial oversight and management of the Chemawa School in 
     Oregon. The Bureau is directed to brief the Committees within 
     30 days of enactment of this Act on how the Bureau intends to 
     address the issues raised and implement the recommendations 
     included in the audit.


                         EDUCATION CONSTRUCTION

       Education Construction.--The bill provides $234,725,000 for 
     schools and related facilities within the BIE system.

                  Bureau of Trust Funds Administration


                         FEDERAL TRUST PROGRAMS

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The agreement provides $100,009,000 for the Bureau of Trust 
     Funds Administration (BTFA) and approves the proposed 
     internal transfer of $7,096,000 to the Bureau of Indian 
     Affairs, Operation of Indian Programs account. Bill language 
     specifies the funding for settlement support.

                          DEPARTMENTAL OFFICES

                        Office of the Secretary


                        DEPARTMENTAL OPERATIONS

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)

       The bill provides $147,418,000 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. The bill provides 
     $1,176,000 for implementation of the NATIVE Act. 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. The bill 
     includes not less than $1,806,000 for the Indian and Arts and 
     Crafts Board.
       Grant Funding.--Within 90 days of enactment of this Act, 
     the Committees direct the Department to provide a briefing to 
     the Committees outlining the steps the Department has taken 
     to ensure compliance with Public Law 116-103. The briefing 
     should also include relevant oversight and audit efforts by 
     the Department to ensure grant recipients are limiting 
     overhead costs.
       Office of Subsistence Management.--The Office of 
     Subsistence Management function and funding has been moved 
     from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and is provided for 
     within the Office of the Secretary.

                            Insular Affairs


                       ASSISTANCE TO TERRITORIES

       The bill provides $120,107,000 for Assistance to 
     Territories. The detailed allocation of funding is included 
     in the table at the end of this explanatory statement.

[[Page S1682]]

  



                      COMPACT OF FREE ASSOCIATION

       The bill provides $3,463,000 for Compact of Free 
     Association. A detailed table of funding allocations below 
     the account level is provided at the end of this explanatory 
     statement.

                        Office of the Solicitor


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The bill provides $97,950,000 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.

                      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 $1,113,471,000 for the Department of the 
     Interior Wildland Fire Management. The bill provides 
     $876,021,000 for Wildfire Preparedness and Suppression, of 
     which $492,364,000 is for preparedness and includes amounts 
     to continue uninterrupted the Federal wildland firefighter 
     base salary increases provided under section 40803(d)(4)(B) 
     of Public Law 117-58 and maintain current firefighting 
     capacity. The Department was provided the authority by Public 
     Law 118-15 to exercise its flexibility regarding wildfire 
     personnel-related costs beyond those that are covered by 
     Preparedness, as well as other ongoing operating requirements 
     needed to maintain fire readiness and firefighting 
     capabilities.
       Other Operations.--The bill provides $237,450,000 for other 
     wildland fire management operations. The Department is 
     directed to provide $3,000,000 to the Joint Fire Science 
     program for fiscal year 2024, which combined with funding in 
     the Forest Service provides $6,000,000 in total.
       Aviation Resources.--The Committees direct the Department 
     of the Interior to consider including Container Aerial Fire 
     Fighting Systems as well as other innovative wildfire 
     technologies now available in the United States.


              WILDFIRE SUPPRESSION OPERATIONS RESERVE FUND

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)

       The bill includes $350,000,000 for the Wildfire Suppression 
     Operations Reserve Fund.


                    CENTRAL HAZARDOUS MATERIALS FUND

       The bill provides $9,661,000 for the Central Hazardous 
     Materials Fund appropriation.


                ENERGY COMMUNITY REVITALIZATION PROGRAM

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)

       The agreement provides $4,800,000 for the Energy Community 
     Revitalization Program. 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 $7,715,000 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 $107,710,000 for the Working Capital Fund 
     appropriation.


                  OFFICE OF NATURAL RESOURCES REVENUE

       The bill provides $167,937,000 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 Bureau of Trust Funds Administration, 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 provides the Secretary of the Interior with 
     certain pay authority for the Appraisal and Valuation 
     Services Office.
       Section 119 addresses the issuance of rules for sage-
     grouse.
       Section 120 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 121 addresses the retention of concession franchise 
     fees.
       Section 122 extends the authorization of deposits into the 
     Historic Preservation Fund.
       Section 123 establishes an offshore decommissioning 
     account.
       Section 124 establishes a nonrecurring expenses fund for 
     the Department of the Interior.
       Section 125 extends the authorization for Ebey's Landing 
     National Historic Reserve.
       Section 126 provides the Secretary of the Interior the 
     ability to authorize and execute agreements to achieve 
     operating efficiencies.

               TITLE II--ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

       The agreement provides $9,158,894,000 for the Environmental 
     Protection Agency (EPA). The Agency is expected to comply 
     with the instructions and requirements at the beginning of 
     this division, in House Report 118-155, and Senate Report 
     118-83, unless otherwise specified below. Additional details, 
     instructions, and requirements follow below and in the table 
     at the end of this division.
       PFAS and Contaminants of Emerging Concern.--In lieu of the 
     matter under the heading ``PFAS and Contaminants of Emerging 
     Concern'' in Senate Report 118-83 and ``PFAS National Primary 
     Drinking Water Regulation Rulemaking'' in House Report 118-
     155, the Committees provide the following direction. Within 
     60 days of enactment of this Act, the Agency is directed to 
     brief the Committees on updated fiscal year 2024 PFAS-related 
     actions and provide the Committees with a spend plan that 
     details funding at the program project level. Additionally, 
     in lieu of the direction in House Report 118-155 regarding a 
     GAO assessment, the Committees direct GAO, following 
     consultation with the Committees, to review cost estimates 
     supporting the final rule.


                         SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

       For Science and Technology programs, the agreement provides 
     $758,103,000. The bill transfers $30,343,000 from the 
     Hazardous Substance Superfund account to this account. The 
     agreement provides the following specific funding levels and 
     direction:
       Clean Air.--The Committees recognize the important role 
     that Clean Air Allowance Trading Programs play in improving 
     air quality and reducing pollution and note the Science 
     Advisory Board panel's review of the Clean Air Allowance 
     Trading Program. The Committees direct the Agency to continue 
     this effort, and provide up to $3,000,000 to modernize the 
     Clean Air Status and Trends Network [CASTNet].
       Homeland Security.--The Committees are concerned by public 
     reports of cyberattacks on water systems across the world, 
     and urge the Agency to continue prioritizing activities 
     related to the cybersecurity of the Nation's water systems.
       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.--The 
     agreement provides $127,037,000. Of the amount provided, 
     $1,500,000 is to develop and demonstrate nano-sensor 
     technology with functionalized catalysts that have the 
     potential to degrade selected contaminants in addition to 
     detecting and monitoring pollutants.
       Research: National Priorities.--The agreement provides 
     $19,530,000 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 Senate Report 118-83.

[[Page S1683]]

       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 follow the directives as 
     specified under this heading in House Report 118-155.
       Consistent with House Report 118-155, the bill provides up 
     to $1,475,000 for advancing full scale applied research and 
     testing capabilities to address threats to drinking water and 
     associated infrastructure at Water Security Test Bed 
     facilities.
       The agreement provides $2,030,000 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:
       Chemical Reviews.--The Committees direct the Agency to 
     provide a briefing within 90 days of enactment of this Act on 
     efforts to carry out the actions outlined under the headers 
     titled ``Chemical Reviews'', ``New Chemical Submissions'', 
     and ``Tiered Testing'' in House Report 118-155 and Senate 
     Report 118-83.
       Harmful Algal Blooms.--The Committees recognize the 
     increasing challenges many communities face from harmful 
     algal blooms (HABs), and encourage the Agency to conduct and 
     fund research that promotes scientific progress towards 
     preventing and controlling HABs, including research to: (1) 
     determine the effectiveness of existing nutrient prevention 
     and treatment technologies; (2) develop methods to monitor, 
     characterize, and predict HABs for early action; (3) identify 
     and evaluate existing excess nutrient prevention and 
     treatment technologies; identify emerging nutrient treatment 
     technologies being scaled up, how to improve upon those 
     technologies, and developing new technologies; and (4) 
     develop best management practices to help both rural and 
     urban communities reduce excess nutrients in their watershed. 
     Within the Safe and Sustainable Water Research Program, the 
     Committees continue providing $6,000,000 to carry out the 
     research detailed in this paragraph, and to investigate 
     adverse health effects from exposure to HABs and 
     cyanobacteria toxins, how to better understand and address 
     HABs, support States in their efforts to prevent and manage 
     HABs, and develop methods to monitor, predict, and 
     characterize blooms to allow for early action.
       Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) Program.--In lieu 
     of the House directives on IRIS, the Agency is directed to 
     follow the guidance in the joint explanatory statement 
     accompanying Public Law 117-103.
       Landfill Emissions Research.--Consistent with direction in 
     the explanatory statement accompanying Public Law 117-328, 
     the bill provides $2,000,000 for landfill emissions research.
       Renewable Fuel Standards.--The Committees direct the Agency 
     to provide a briefing within 90 days of enactment of this Act 
     on planned actions related to the eRINS proposed rule.
       The Committees note that the process for renewable fuel 
     pathways continues to suffer from significant delays and 
     inefficiencies, creating uncertainty for biofuel producers. 
     The Committees direct the Agency to provide a report, within 
     90 days of enactment of this Act, outlining recommendations 
     on how to streamline and expedite the RFS pathway petition 
     and approval process, as well as information on its hiring 
     activity.
       The Committees include only the following direction 
     regarding waste plastic and waste tires. The Committees 
     direct the Agency to provide a briefing within 120 days of 
     enactment of this Act on the potential benefits and drawbacks 
     of including these waste streams as cellulosic biofuels.
       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 2023.
       Testing Alternatives.--The Committees include only the 
     following direction. The Committees appreciate the Agency's 
     work on New Approach Methods (NAMs), including in vitro 
     tests, in chemico assays, and in silico models, which 
     represent key advances in science to support hazard and risk 
     assessments of pesticides and chemicals. The Committees 
     encourage the Agency to continue supporting and perform 
     research on the development and evaluation of NAMs through 
     the Chemical Safety for Sustainability National Research 
     Program.
       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 $3,178,028,000. The agreement provides the following 
     specific funding levels and direction:
       Clean Air.--The Committees include only the following 
     direction on the Energy STAR program. The Committees direct 
     the Agency to provide a briefing within 120 days of enactment 
     of this Act on its analyses related to emissions reductions 
     and costs and benefits to consumers of proposals to eliminate 
     products or appliances from the Energy STAR program based on 
     fuel type.
       The bill maintains the enacted level for the Agency's wood 
     stove certification and testing standards work. The Agency is 
     directed to use the base funding 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.
       Cost Effective Technologies.--The Committees commend EPA 
     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 EPA 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 continues funding for wildfire smoke-
     related activities.
       Environmental Protection: National Priorities.--The 
     agreement provides $30,700,000, 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 (GLRI).--The agreement 
     provides funding to the GLRI Distinct Tribal Program at no 
     less than $16,500,000.
       Chesapeake Bay.--From within the 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.
       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 bill provides $54,000,000 for the Puget 
     Sound program, of which up to 5 percent is to support the 
     Puget Sound Recovery National Program Office as authorized in 
     section 8501(b) of title LXXXV of Public Law 117-263. 
     Further, the Committees direct the EPA to work expeditiously 
     to establish the Puget Sound Recovery National Program Office 
     and Puget Sound Federal Leadership Task Force as authorized 
     in Public Law 117-263, and direct the Agency to brief the 
     Committees no later than 60 days after enactment of this Act 
     on such efforts.
       Long Island Sound.--The Committees direct the Agency to 
     utilize up to $2,000,000 of the funding provided for the Long 
     Island Sound program to execute a Long Island Sound Study 
     with existing academic partners with expertise in 
     oceanography, chemistry, atmospheric science, hydrology, and 
     marine biology. Expanded research initiatives such as these 
     are needed to collect and develop more data, as well as the 
     modeling tools necessary for the continued protection and 
     management of the Sound.
       South Florida.--Within the funds provided, the agreement 
     provides 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

[[Page S1684]]

     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 2023.
       Lake Champlain.--The bill provides $25,000,000 for the Lake 
     Champlain program. These funds shall be allocated through the 
     Lake Champlain Basin Program, other than continuing the 
     enacted levels 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.
       Northwest Forest Program.--The Committees continue to 
     support the Northwest Forest Program at not less than fiscal 
     year 2021 funding level.
       Information Exchange/Outreach.--Tribal capacity building is 
     funded at not less than the enacted level.
       Pesticide Licensing.--The Committees include only the 
     following direction. The Committees recommend that as the 
     Agency conducts Endangered Species Act (ESA) analyses, 
     consistent with statutory and litigation requirements, it 
     will consider best available data on pesticide usage, 
     existing conservation practices, real-world studies on spray 
     drift, ground water and surface water concentrations, and 
     sub-county level species range maps.
       Pesticides Rulemaking.--In lieu of the House language on 
     Pesticides Rulemaking, the Committees encourage the Agency to 
     provide a briefing within 90 days of enactment of this Act 
     regarding considerations of potential revisions, if any, to 
     the final rule titled: Pesticides; Exemptions of Certain 
     Plant-Incorporated Protectants (PIPs) Derived From Newer 
     Technologies to regulate based on the environmental and human 
     health risk of the product, rather than the process used to 
     develop the product.
       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)).
       Ensure Clean Water.--The Committees support the work of the 
     WaterSense, Urban Waters, and Trash Free Waters programs and 
     encourage the continuance of these programs.
       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)).
       Ensure Clean Water: National Estuary Program/Coastal 
     Waterways.--The agreement provides $40,000,000, of which the 
     agreement provides $850,000 per estuary for each of the 28 
     national estuaries in the National Estuary Program (NEP) 
     authorized by section 320 of the Clean Water Act (Public Law 
     92-500). An additional $2,500,000 is provided for competitive 
     grants.
       Ensure Safe Water.--Within available funds, the agreement 
     provides no less than $5,000,000 for the Agency's continued 
     work within the Underground Injection Control (UIC) program 
     related to Class VI wells for geologic sequestration to help 
     develop expertise and capacity at the Agency. These funds 
     should be used by the Agency to expeditiously review and 
     process Class VI permits and primacy applications from States 
     and Tribes.
       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.
       Within 270 days of enactment of this Act, the Agency is 
     directed to provide a report to the Committees detailing a 
     plan for consideration of guidance regarding the transition 
     of UIC Class II wells used for long-term geologic storage of 
     carbon dioxide to UIC Class VI wells under the existing 
     regulatory structure.
       Within the available funds, the agreement continues the 
     enacted level of $3,000,000 for the Agency to complete 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). 
     The Agency is directed to brief the Committees on plans for 
     survey implementation within 120 days of enactment of this 
     Act.
       Additional Guidance.--The following additional guidance is 
     included:
       Chlorpyrifos.--The Committees note recent court action on 
     the August 2021 rule regarding chlorpyrifos, and direct the 
     Agency to provide a briefing on how the Agency is complying 
     with the court's order within 180 days of enactment of this 
     Act.
       Ethylene Oxide.--In lieu of the House and Senate directives 
     regarding ethylene oxide, the Committees note public concerns 
     about ethylene oxide emissions. The Committees request a 
     briefing within 180 days of enactment of this Act on 
     potential impacts from the Agency's proposed standards.
       Transboundary Watersheds.--The Committees direct the Agency 
     to continue and expand its work coordinating with Federal, 
     State, local, and Tribal agencies to monitor and reduce 
     transboundary mining pollution in the Kootenai watershed and 
     other U.S.-British Columbia transboundary watersheds. The 
     Committees provide $2,000,000 for such monitoring, 
     management, and interagency activities in U.S.-British 
     Columbia transboundary watersheds. The Committees remind the 
     Agency of the direction in the explanatory statement 
     accompanying Public Law 117-103 to brief the Committees on 
     the Agency's progress to document baseline conditions and 
     mining-related impacts, and any additional staff or resources 
     needed for this project. The Committees direct the Agency to 
     allocate these funds in its fiscal year 2024 operating plan 
     to the appropriate program project area for carrying out 
     these activities.
       Small Refinery Relief.--The Committees recognize that the 
     Renewable Fuels Standard [RFS] under Clean Air Act Section 
     211(o)(9) provides that the Agency may exempt small 
     refineries from compliance with the RFS in certain 
     circumstances and that a small refinery ``may at any time 
     petition the Administrator for an extension of the exemption 
     for the reason of disproportionate economic hardship.''
       Pre-Commercial Thinning.--The Committees recognize that 
     pre-commercial thinning from non-Federal forestland that is 
     not ecologically sensitive forestland can qualify as 
     renewable biomass for purposes of the RFS under the 
     provisions detailed in 40 C.F.R. 80.1401. The Committees 
     direct the Agency to support other Federal agencies leading 
     efforts to enhance markets for low-grade and low-value wood. 
     The Agency is further directed to brief the Committees on 
     these efforts within 180 days of enactment of this Act.
       Hydrofluorocarbons.--The resources provided include funding 
     for the phase down of the use of hydrofluorocarbons.


                      OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL

       The bill provides $43,250,000 for the Office of Inspector 
     General. The bill transfers $11,328,000 from the Hazardous 
     Substance Superfund account to this account.


                        BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES

       The bill provides $40,676,000 for Buildings and Facilities.


                     HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCE SUPERFUND

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)

       The bill provides $537,700,000 for the Hazardous Substance 
     Superfund account and includes bill language to transfer 
     $11,328,000 to the Office of Inspector General account and 
     $30,343,000 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.


          LEAKING UNDERGROUND STORAGE TANK TRUST FUND PROGRAM

       The bill provides $89,214,000 for the Leaking Underground 
     Storage Tank Trust Fund Program.


                       InLAND OIL SPILL PROGRAMS

       The bill provides $20,711,000 for Inland Oil Spill 
     Programs.


                   STATE AND TRIBAL ASSISTANCE GRANTS

                    (INCLUDING RESCISSION OF FUNDS)

       The bill provides $4,418,938,000 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 
     agreement provides $787,652,267 from the Clean Water SRF and 
     $631,659,905 from the Drinking Water SRF for Community 
     Project Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending grants for 
     the construction of drinking water, wastewater, and 
     stormwater infrastructure and for water quality protection.
       Infrastructure Projects.--Each project shall provide not 
     less than 20 percent matching funds from non-Federal sources, 
     unless approved for a waiver. Applicable Federal requirements 
     that would apply to a Clean Water State Revolving Fund or 
     Drinking Water State Revolving Fund project grant recipient 
     shall apply to a grantee receiving a Congressionally directed 
     spending grant under this section. The Committees note that 
     the following funds are to be treated as non-Federal funds 
     and can be used to meet the non-Federal matching fund 
     requirement: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban 
     Development, Community Development Block Grant Program; U.S. 
     Department of Agriculture, Rural Development Program; 
     Appalachian Regional Commission grants; and Delta Regional 
     Authority grants. Funding made available to jurisdictions 
     through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (Public Law 117-
     2) is considered Federal funding and may not be applied 
     towards the non-Federal cost share requirement.
       The Committees remain concerned that EPA does not have 
     sufficient resources necessary to expeditiously implement 
     this program and fully support recipients as they address 
     applicable Federal grant requirements.

[[Page S1685]]

     Accordingly, the agreement provides $13,300,000 in funding 
     for salaries, expenses, and administration for 
     Congressionally Directed Spending and Community Project 
     Funding grants provided in fiscal year 2022 and fiscal year 
     2023 and this Act. While the Committees appreciate the 
     technical assistance the Agency has provided in recent 
     months, the Committees remain concerned that more work is 
     needed to resolve the Agency's significant backlog of 
     projects, as discussed in the fiscal year 2024 Senate 
     appropriations hearing. Required by a provision in the bill, 
     the Committees direct the Agency to provide a briefing within 
     45 days and a subsequent report within 90 days of enactment 
     of this Act proposing efficient solutions for substantially 
     increasing the Agency's effectiveness and timeliness in 
     administering Community Project Funding and Congressionally 
     Directed Spending projects. This briefing and report must 
     include: ways to streamline environmental reviews, additional 
     statutory authority that may be helpful to the Agency, and 
     any additional options the Agency sees fit to recommend to 
     the Committees, other than increased staffing at the Agency. 
     The report must include detailed legislative text, including 
     bill language, if necessary, for these proposals.
       The agreement further directs the Agency to include in the 
     above-mentioned required report, a detailed legislative 
     structure to allow States to implement and manage Community 
     Project Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending grants. The 
     proposed legislative structure must include the following 
     elements: allow States to apply or elect to manage a project 
     or projects, including where recipients of Community Project 
     Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending projects may opt-
     out of State management; align the requirements of the grants 
     managed by the States with those that apply to SRF loans; 
     and, an administrative funding set-aside for States to 
     utilize when they elect to manage projects.
       The Agency is directed to immediately begin consulting with 
     the States and Tribes on this proposal, solicit their 
     feedback, and the Agency is strongly encouraged to 
     incorporate State and Tribal feedback into its report and 
     legislative proposal.
       The Agency shall not obligate or expend the funding 
     provided for salaries, expenses, and administration unless 
     written confirmation is provided by the Committees. If the 
     Committees find the report lacking, the Committees reserve 
     the right to withhold approval for obligation until the 
     Agency provides the Committees with an adequate response. The 
     Committees remind the Agency of previous commitments to 
     seriously engage with the Committees on finding long-term 
     solutions to the growing backlog of projects.
       Diesel Emission Reductions Grants (DERA).--The Committees 
     support the use of DERA funding in transportation 
     electrification projects.
       Targeted Airshed Grants.--The Committees direct the Agency 
     to follow the directive in Senate Report 118-83.
       Wildfire Smoke Preparedness.--The agreement provides 
     $7,000,000 for wildfire smoke preparedness grants. These 
     grants shall be distributed on a competitive basis to States, 
     federally recognized Tribes, public pre-schools, local 
     educational agencies as defined in 20 U.S.C. 7801(30), and 
     non-profit organizations, for assessment, prevention, 
     control, or abatement of wildfire smoke hazards in community 
     buildings, including schools as defined in 20 U.S.C. 3610(6), 
     and related activities. The Federal share of the costs of 
     such activities shall not exceed 90 percent except that the 
     Administrator may waive such cost share requirement in the 
     case of facilities located in economically distressed 
     communities. A maximum of 25 percent of grant funding under 
     this paragraph during this fiscal year may go to recipients 
     in any one State. Further, the Committees direct the Agency 
     to allow for grants to be made for research purposes, in 
     addition to current eligibility categories.
       Categorical Grants.--The agreement provides $1,106,333,000 
     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 Agency is directed to follow the directive 
     contained in House Report 118-155 pertaining to coal 
     combustion residuals and the agreement provides $4,000,000 
     from the Hazardous Waste Financial Assistance categorical 
     grants program project for this purpose.
       Additionally, of the funding provided, $5,000,000 is to 
     support post-consumer materials management or recycling 
     facilities, consistent with section 302(a) of the Save Our 
     Seas 2.0 Act (Public Law 116-224).
       Categorical Grants: Nonpoint Source Section 319.--The 
     Committees expect the Agency to examine the allocation 
     formula to ensure that resources are spent in areas with the 
     most pressing need.
       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.
       PFAS.--The bill clarifies Congressional intent that funding 
     provided in fiscal year 2024, including from Public Law 117-
     58, for grants for addressing contaminants under subsections 
     (a) through (j) of section 1459A of the Safe Drinking Water 
     Act (42 U.S.C. 300j-19a) may be used by a State to provide 
     assistance to benefit one or more owners of drinking water 
     wells that are not public water systems or connected to a 
     public water system for necessary and appropriate activities 
     related to a contaminant pursuant to subsection (j) of 
     section 1459A of the Safe Drinking Water Act. In implementing 
     this funding, the Committees direct the Agency to encourage 
     States to prioritize beneficiaries that make less than the 
     average household income for the State.
       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.
       Regional Water Commissions.--The Infrastructure Investment 
     and Jobs Act makes clear that regional water partnerships to 
     address water shortages are eligible for grant funding 
     through the Midsize and Large Drinking Water System 
     Infrastructure Resilience and Sustainability Program.


      WATER INFRASTRUCTURE FINANCE AND INNOVATION PROGRAM ACCOUNT

       The agreement provides a total of $72,274,000 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 includes a provision providing for further 
     Congressional oversight.

                      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

       Lake Tahoe Basin.--The Committees direct the Forest Service 
     to support the implementation of Public Law 106-506, as 
     amended, and restoration efforts in the greater Lake Tahoe 
     fireshed, at no less than the fiscal year 2023 enacted levels 
     for hazardous fuels, vegetation and watershed, and forest 
     cooperative health efforts.
       White Oak.--The Service shall brief the Committees within 
     90 days of enactment of this Act on efforts to develop a 
     strategy to regenerate white oak on public and private lands 
     which includes monitoring, research, and increased private 
     landowner outreach and education.


                       FOREST SERVICE OPERATIONS

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)

       The bill provides $1,150,000,000 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 $300,000,000 for Forest and Rangeland 
     Research. 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:
       --$3,000,000 to the Joint Fire Science program, which 
     combined with funding in the Department of Interior provides 
     $6,000,000 in total.
       --$5,000,000 to support the Northeastern States Research 
     Cooperative consistent with the directives contained in 
     Senate Report 118-83.
       --$2,000,000 for research on forest-based cellulose 
     nanomaterials, including material forms, manufacturing 
     processes, and technology transfer.
       --$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.
       --$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, PRIVATE, AND TRIBAL FORESTRY

       The bill provides $303,306,000 for State, Private, and 
     Tribal Forestry. The detailed allocation of funding by 
     activity is included in

[[Page S1686]]

     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.
       Forest Ecosystem Monitoring Cooperative.--Within the funds 
     provided, $1,000,000 is for the Forest Ecosystem Monitoring 
     Cooperative consistent with the directives contained in 
     Senate Report 118-83.
       Forest Resource Information and Analysis.--The bill 
     provides $19,806,000 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.
       Sudden Oak Death.-- The Committees expect the Service to 
     continue these efforts and provides $2,000,000 for Sudden Oak 
     Death treatments and partnerships with States and private 
     landowners.


                         NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM

       The bill provides $1,863,557,000 for the National Forest 
     System. The detailed allocation of funding by activity is 
     included in the table accompanying this explanatory 
     statement.
       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); $3,000,000 is 
     included to support infrastructure and trails development and 
     to build the capacity of local user groups and partnership 
     organizations for all National Recreation Areas administered 
     by the Forest Service and established after 1997; and 
     $750,000 is for the maintenance of rural air strips.
       Fuels Management.--The bill provides $175,450,000 for fuels 
     management activities and does not transfer the program to 
     Wildland Fire Management, as proposed in the budget. 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; and $6,600,000 is provided for the 
     Southwest Ecological Restoration Institutes.
       Gila National Forest.--The Committees encourage the Forest 
     Service to engage local stakeholders such as ranchers and 
     farmers during the planning stage prior to carrying out 
     species management actions.
       Public Access.--In lieu of House direction, the Forest 
     Service shall report to the Committees, within 180 days of 
     enactment of this Act, all trail and road closures in the 
     Cleveland National Forest and when available, cite reasoning 
     for closures and restrictions such as, but not limited to, 
     seasonal closures for weather or wildlife habitat, for timber 
     harvest or prescribed fire operations, ongoing resource 
     damage, or public health and safety concerns.


                  CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT AND MAINTENANCE

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The bill provides $156,130,000 for Capital Improvement and 
     Maintenance programs.
       Trails.--The bill includes $20,000,000 for Trails. Of the 
     funds provided, no less than the enacted level is provided 
     for trail operation, maintenance and construction on National 
     Scenic and Historic Trails.
       Construction Projects.--The bill provides $5,130,000 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 $2,312,654,000 for Forest Service 
     Wildland Fire Management, including amounts to continue 
     uninterrupted the Federal wildland firefighter base salary 
     increases provided under section 40803(d)(4)(B) of Public Law 
     117-58 and maintain current firefighting capacity. The 
     detailed allocation of funding by activity is included in the 
     table accompanying this explanatory statement.
       Firefighting Technologies.--The Committees direct the 
     Forest Service to update its procedures and deployment 
     protocols and to consider including Container Aerial Fire 
     Fighting Systems as well as other innovative wildfire 
     technologies now available in the United States.
       Wildland Fire Suppression Operations.--The Committees 
     direct the Forest Service to continue to perform a post-fire 
     season audit of the fire suppression program and timely 
     completion of the Annual Report and Large Fire Review.


              WILDFIRE SUPPRESSION OPERATIONS RESERVE FUND

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)

       The bill includes $2,300,000,000 for the Wildfire 
     Suppression Operations Reserve Fund.

                Department of Health and Human Services


                         InDIAN HEALTH SERVICE

                         InDIAN HEALTH SERVICES

       The bill provides a total of $4,948,731,000 for the Indian 
     Health Service (IHS) Services account for fiscal year 2024, 
     which includes $56,061,000 to remain available until 
     September 30, 2025, to provide for staffing of new facilities 
     and $74,138,000 to remain available until September 30, 2025, 
     for the Indian Health Care Improvement Fund and $190,564,000, 
     to remain available until expended, for the Electronic Health 
     Record System. The agreement also provides $4,684,029,000 in 
     advance appropriations for the Services account for fiscal 
     year 2025 with the exception of funding for Electronic Health 
     Records and the Indian Health Care Improvement Fund, which 
     continue to receive an annual appropriation. All programs, 
     projects, and activities are maintained at fiscal year 2023 
     enacted levels unless otherwise specified below. The Service 
     is expected to comply with the instructions and requirements 
     at the beginning of this division and in House Report 118-155 
     and Senate Report 118-83, 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. First aid kit enhancements, 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 Health Services and Indian 
     Health Facilities accounts totaling $5,190,883,000 for fiscal 
     year 2025. Advanced appropriations are not provided for the 
     Electronic Health Record System, Indian Health Care 
     Improvement Fund, Contract Support Costs, Payments for Tribal 
     Leases, Sanitation Facilities Construction, and Health Care 
     Facilities Construction. Additional details, instructions, 
     and requirements follow in the table at the end of this 
     division.
       Staffing for New Facilities.--The agreement includes 
     $56,061,000 for staffing newly opened health facilities, 
     which is the full amount required in fiscal year 2024 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 2023 or will open in fiscal year 2024. 
     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.
       Hospitals and Health Clinics.--The agreement provides 
     $2,550,514,000 for Hospitals and Health Clinics, which 
     maintains funding at fiscal year 2023 enacted levels for 
     Alzheimer's activities and the Produce Prescription Pilot 
     program. The agreement also continues funding at the fiscal 
     year 2023 enacted levels for the Tribal Epidemiology Center 
     Program, domestic violence prevention program, village-built 
     clinics, maternal health, accreditation emergencies, health 
     information technology, healthy lifestyles in youth project, 
     and the National Indian Health Board cooperative agreement.
       Electronic Health Records.--The agreement provides 
     $190,564,000 for Electronic Health Records (EHR) to remain 
     available until expended. 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 $129,765,000 for Mental 
     Health, which continues funding at fiscal year 2023 enacted 
     levels for the behavioral health integration initiative, for 
     suicide prevention, and for the Telebehavioral Health Center 
     of Excellence. 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 the 
     performance of the program.
       Alcohol and Substance Abuse.--The bill provides 
     $266,636,000 for the Alcohol and Substance Abuse Programs, 
     which includes support to existing programs, including, among 
     others, culturally adapted treatments for substance abuse 
     disorders as outlined in House Report 118-155, and the 
     Special Behavioral Health Pilot Program that addresses

[[Page S1687]]

     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.
       Purchased/Referred Care.--The agreement provides 
     $996,755,000 for the Purchased/Referred Care program.
       Urban Indian Health.--The agreement provides $90,419,000 
     for the Urban Indian health program.
       Indian Health Professions.--The agreement provides 
     $80,568,000 for Indian health professions, which includes 
     enacted levels for the loan repayment program as well as the 
     InMed program, the Quentin N. Burdick Indians into Nursing, 
     and the American Indians into Psychology Programs.


                         CONTRACT SUPPORT COSTS

       The bill continues language from fiscal year 2023 providing 
     an indefinite appropriation to fully fund contract support 
     costs, which are estimated to be $1,051,000,000 in fiscal 
     year 2024. The bill does not include the budget proposal to 
     make these costs mandatory.


                       PAYMENTS FOR TRIBAL LEASES

       The bill continues language from fiscal year 2023 providing 
     an indefinite appropriation to fully fund payments for Tribal 
     leases, which are estimated to be $149,000,000 in fiscal year 
     2024. The bill does not include the budget proposal to make 
     these costs mandatory.


                        InDIAN HEALTH FACILITIES

       The bill provides $813,183,000 for Indian Health 
     Facilities. The recommendation provides $506,854,000 in 
     advance appropriations for this account for fiscal year 2025 
     with the exception of funding for Sanitation Facilities 
     Construction and Health Care Facilities Construction for 
     which $306,329,000 is provided as an annual appropriation in 
     recognition of the project-based nature of those accounts. 
     IHS is expected to comply with the instructions and 
     requirements at the beginning of this division and in House 
     Report 118-155 and Senate Report 118-83, 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.
       Staffing for New Facilities.--The agreement provides 
     $5,364,000 for staffing newly opened 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 fiscal year 2023 or 
     will open in fiscal year 2024. 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 
     $123,650,000 for sanitation facilities construction. The 
     agreement also includes $17,023,000 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 2024 for any funds requested.
       Health Care Facilities Construction.--The agreement 
     provides $182,679,000 for health care facilities 
     construction. 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 $303,661,000 for this program, which maintains 
     $3,000,000 for preliminary engineering reports and $3,000,000 
     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 agreement provides $32,598,000 for 
     equipment, which continues $500,000 for TRANSAM and maintains 
     the enacted levels for emergency generators, as directed in 
     House Report 118-155.

                     National Institutes of Health


          NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SCIENCES

       The agreement provides $79,714,000 for the National 
     Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. The Committees 
     continue the $2,000,000 provided in fiscal year 2023 to 
     further the Institute's work on PFAS and other contaminants 
     of emerging concern. 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 $81,619,000. The Committees continue 
     the $2,000,000 provided in fiscal year 2023 to further the 
     Agency's work on PFAS and other contaminants of emerging 
     concern.
       The agreement continues funding as specified in Senate 
     Report 118-83.

                         Other Related Agencies

                   Executive Office of the President


  COUNCIL ON ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY AND OFFICE OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

       The agreement provides $4,629,000 for the Council on 
     Environmental Quality and Office of Environmental Quality.
       The agreement does not include the directive contained in 
     Senate Report 118-83.

             Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The bill provides $14,400,000 for the Chemical Safety and 
     Hazard Investigation Board.

              Office of Navajo and Hopi Indian Relocation


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The bill does not provide new appropriations for fiscal 
     year 2024; however, a total of $5,024,000 is made available 
     from unobligated balances for fiscal year 2024 operations.

    Institute of American Indian and Alaska Native Culture and Arts 
                              Development


                        PAYMENT TO THE INSTITUTE

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

                        Smithsonian Institution


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement provides a total of $1,090,500,000 for all 
     Smithsonian Institution accounts, of which $892,855,000 is 
     provided for salaries and expenses. A detailed allocation of 
     funding is included in the table at the end of this 
     explanatory statement.
       Repressed Cultures Preservation.--The Committees include 
     only the following language. Global conflicts and repressive 
     regimes continue to threaten cultural and linguistic heritage 
     across the world. The Committees appreciate the ongoing and 
     longstanding in-person and digital efforts the Smithsonian 
     has made to preserve aspects of threatened cultures that, 
     once lost, cannot be restored.
       Repatriation of Human Remains.--The Smithsonian has one of 
     the largest research collections worldwide, including one of 
     the world's largest collections of human remains. Amassed 
     during the 19th and early 20th centuries, most of the remains 
     of approximately 30,000 individuals, half of whom are 
     Indigenous people, were acquired without the consent of the 
     deceased or their family members. The Committees direct the 
     Smithsonian to act with urgency in correcting these past 
     injustices by prioritizing repatriation activities and 
     expeditiously implementing the policy recommendations in the 
     January 10, 2024, Smithsonian's Human Remains Task Force 
     Report.


                           FACILITIES CAPITAL

       The agreement provides $197,645,000 for Facilities Capital.

                        National Gallery of Art


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The bill provides $174,760,000 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. 
     The distribution of funds among the Gallery's various 
     activities is included in the table at the end of this 
     explanatory statement.


            REPAIR, RESTORATION AND RENOVATION OF BUILDINGS

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The bill provides $34,480,000 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 $32,293,000 for the Operations and 
     Maintenance account.


                     CAPITAL REPAIR AND RESTORATION

       The bill provides $12,633,000 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. A detailed breakdown of the funding allocation is 
     included in the table at the end of this explanatory 
     statement.

                 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. A detailed breakdown of the funding allocation 
     is included in the table at the end of this explanatory 
     statement.

                        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.

[[Page S1688]]

     The agreement provides bill language regarding eligibility 
     for grants.

               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. The Committees continue funding 
     for implementation of the Never Again Education Act (Public 
     Law 116-141) in order to support and strengthen Holocaust 
     education programs.

                             Presidio Trust

       The bill provides $90,000,000 in loan authority for the 
     Presidio Trust.

                   World War I Centennial Commission


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       A general provision is included in the bill continuing the 
     authority for the Commission to accept money, in-kind 
     services, and other types of support. The Committees 
     understand that no additional funds are necessary to support 
     the final World War I Centennial Commission activities, and 
     additional funds are therefore not provided.

              United States Semiquincentennial Commission


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

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

                      TITLE IV--GENERAL PROVISIONS


             (including transfers and rescissions 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 2024.
       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 Forest Botanical 
     Products fee collection for one year.
       Section 427 includes certain limitations on oil and gas 
     development near Chaco Culture National Historical Park.
       Section 428 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 429 extends the authority for the Forest Ecosystem 
     Health and Recovery Fund by one year.
       Section 430 requires the allocation of funds from the 
     National Parks and Public Land Legacy Restoration Fund and 
     Land and Water Conservation Fund.
       Section 431 addresses carbon emissions from forest biomass.
       Section 432 addresses the use of small remote incinerators 
     in the State of Alaska.
       Section 433 addresses timber sales involving Alaska western 
     red and yellow cedar.
       Section 434 provides transfer authority to the Federal 
     Highway Administration for the National Parks and Public Land 
     Legacy Restoration Fund.
       Section 435 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 436 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 437 continues a provision prohibiting the use of 
     funds to regulate the lead content of ammunition or fishing 
     tackle.
       Section 438 provides for wildland firefighter pay cap 
     waiver.
       Section 439 provides a technical correction to a fiscal 
     year 2023 project.
       Section 440 extends authorization for Alaska Native 
     regional health entities.
       Section 441 requires the Secretary of the Interior, acting 
     through the Bureau of Land Management, to have analyzed, in 
     consultation with local elected officials and stakeholders, 
     action alternatives designed to reduce impacts prior to 
     expending any funds to grant, issue, or renew a right-of-way 
     for the Lava Ridge Wind Project.
       Section 442 requires the Bureau of Land Management to 
     prioritize completion of a validity determination for any 
     mining claims located within the area covered by Public Land 
     Order 7921.
       Section 443 extends the existing authority for good 
     neighbor authorities for 1 year and extends the authority to 
     the National Park Service and the Fish and Wildlife Service.
       Section 444 establishes a nonrecurring expenses fund for 
     the Forest Service.
       Section 445 continues authorities for the World War I 
     Centennial Commission to accept support from other Federal 
     agencies.
       Section 446 rescinds $94,000,000 from fiscal year 2020 and 
     prior discretionary balances, including $89,000,000 from the 
     National Park Service, Land Acquisition and State Assistance 
     program, and $5,000,000 from the Bureau of Land Management, 
     Land Acquisition program.
       Section 447 rescinds $350,000,000 from the Indian Health 
     Service from section 11001 of Public Law 117-2.
       Section 448 rescinds $90,000,000 from fiscal year 2023 and 
     prior year balances from the Indian Health Service, Indian 
     Health Services account, for costs related to or resulting 
     from accreditation emergencies.

          ALLOCATION OF FUNDS: NATIONAL PARKS AND PUBLIC LAND LEGACY RESTORATION FUND FISCAL YEAR 2024
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
              State(s)                   Station or Unit Name               Project              Funding Amount
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                            Bureau of Land Management
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AK.................................  Anchorage District.........  Campbell Creek Science               2,100,000
                                                                   Center Access Repairs--
                                                                   Phase II.
AK.................................  Anchorage District.........  Glennallen Warehouse                 2,200,000
                                                                   Consolidation--Phase II.
AZ.................................  Gila District..............  Haekel Road Rehabilitation           3,500,000
                                                                   Chip Seal--Phases IV, V,
                                                                   and VI.
CA.................................  Northern California          California Combined                  5,000,000
                                      District, Central            Recreation Repair and
                                      California District, and     Maintenance.
                                      California Desert District.
CO.................................  Northwest District.........  Little Snake Fire                    5,610,000
                                                                   Operations Building
                                                                   Replacement and Upgrades.
ID.................................  National Interagency Fire    415-Duane Graves Building            7,000,000
                                      Center.                      Replacement.
ID.................................  Twin Falls District........  Shoshone Field Office                7,200,000
                                                                   Replacement.
MT.................................  Eastern Montana/Dakotas      Montana FY 2024 Recreation,          6,000,000
                                      District, North Central      Roads, and Dams Repair
                                      District, Western Montana    Project.
                                      District.
NM.................................  Farmington District........  Taos Field Office                    7,330,000
                                                                   Recreation Sites.

[[Page S1689]]

 
OR.................................  Northwest Oregon District..  Northwest Oregon District           11,000,000
                                                                   Wildfire Damaged
                                                                   Recreation Site Repairs.
OR.................................  Northwest Oregon District..  Northwest Oregon District            3,200,000
                                                                   Recreation Site
                                                                   Improvements.
OR, WA.............................  Coos Bay, Lakeview,          Oregon and Washington                9,700,000
                                      Northwest Oregon,            Recreational Facilities.
                                      Prineville, Roseburg,
                                      Spokane and Vale Districts.
UT.................................  Color Country District.....  Color Country                        7,000,000
                                                                   Administration Facility
                                                                   Replacements and Repairs.
WY.................................  High Desert District and     Wyoming Safety of Dams               4,000,000
                                      Wind River/Bighorn Basin     Repairs and Maintenance--
                                      District.                    Phase III.
WY.................................  High Desert District.......  Rawlins Barracks                     5,600,000
                                                                   Replacement.
                                     Subtotal, Bureau of Land     ...........................         86,440,000
                                      Management Projects.
                                     Contingency Fund...........  ...........................          9,343,678
                                     Program Administration       ...........................          2,850,000
                                      (Indirect Costs).
                                     2023 Previously Sequestered  ...........................          5,415,000
                                      Budget Authority.
                                     2024 Sequester.............  ...........................         -5,415,000
                                     TOTAL, Bureau of Land        ...........................         98,633,678
                                      Management.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                         U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AK.................................  Alaska Peninsula/Bechar of   Replacement &                        7,000,000
                                      NWR.                         Rehabilitation of Refuge
                                                                   Buildings.
CA.................................  Sacramento NWR Complex.....  Repair Water Management              8,400,000
                                                                   Capabilities &
                                                                   Infrastructure--Phase I.
CO.................................  San Luis Valley NWR Complex  Rehabilitation of Water             15,400,000
                                                                   Management Infrastructure
                                                                   & Bunkhouse Replacement.
FL.................................  Crystal River NWR..........  Replacement of the Three             8,060,000
                                                                   Sisters Spring Bulkhead &
                                                                   Boardwalk.
KS.................................  Quivira NWR................  Rehabilitation of the Great         11,450,000
                                                                   Plains Nature Center &
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance
                                                                   Retirement at Quivira NWR.
MN.................................  Sherburne NWR..............  Replacement of the                   3,720,000
                                                                   Headquarters & Visitor
                                                                   Center Building.
MO.................................  Swan Lake NWR..............  Replacement of Office &              8,607,000
                                                                   Retirement of Deferred
                                                                   Maintenance Backlog.
NJ.................................  Great Swamp NWR............  Replacement of the Great             3,600,000
                                                                   Swamp & Great Meadows
                                                                   Headquarters Buildings.
OK.................................  Wichita Mountains WR.......  Consolidate and Modernize            2,961,000
                                                                   Public Use Facilities and
                                                                   Improve Recreational
                                                                   Access--Phase III.
WA.................................  Ridgefield NWR.............  Replace River S Pump and             5,500,000
                                                                   Infrastructure.
Multiple...........................  National Wildlife Refuges..  National Maintenance Action          8,000,000
                                                                   Team--Year 4.
Multiple...........................  National Wildlife Refuges..  Salary Funding for                   2,000,000
                                                                   Supplemental Conservation
                                                                   Workforce--Year 3.
                                     Subtotal, U.S. Fish and      ...........................         84,698,000
                                      Wildlife Service Projects.
                                     Contingency Fund...........  ...........................         11,085,678
                                     Program Administration       ...........................          2,850,000
                                      (Indirect Costs).
                                     2023 Previously Sequestered  ...........................          5,415,000
                                      Budget Authority.
                                     2024 Sequester.............  ...........................         -5,415,000
                                     TOTAL, U.S. Fish and         ...........................         98,633,678
                                      Wildlife Service.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                              National Park Service
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AK.................................  Katmai National Park &       Replace Water Filtration             7,938,000
                                      Preserve.                    System at King Salmon.
AZ.................................  Grand Canyon National Park.  Rehabilitate the North Rim         180,642,000
                                                                   and Roaring Springs
                                                                   Utility Systems.
CA.................................  Death Valley National Park.  Rehabilitate Water and              62,533,000
                                                                   Wastewater Systems at
                                                                   Furnace Creek and Cow
                                                                   Creek.
CA.................................  Yosemite National Park.....  Rehabilitate El Portal             179,661,000
                                                                   Wastewater Treatment
                                                                   Facility and
                                                                   Administrative Camp.
CA.................................  Sequoia and Kings Canyon     Rehabilitate Water Utility          35,344,000
                                      National Parks.              Infrastructure and Upgrade
                                                                   Access to Campgrounds.
CA.................................  Sequoia and Kings Canyon     Rehabilitate Grant Grove            21,590,000
                                      National Parks.              Historic Cabins and Shower
                                                                   House and Lodgepole Market.
CO.................................  Curecanti National           Replace Water and                   13,055,000
                                      Recreation Area.             Wastewater Systems at Elk
                                                                   Creek and Lake Fork.
CO.................................  Great Sand Dunes National    Rehabilitate Park Housing..         12,027,000
                                      Park & Preserve.
DC.................................  National Mall and Memorial   Rehabilitate Seawalls and           38,634,000
                                      Parks.                       Shoreline Landscape--Phase
                                                                   II.
DC.................................  National Capital Parks-East  Rehabilitate Urban                  11,800,000
                                                                   Recreation Areas.
HI.................................  Hawaii Volcanoes National    Rehabilitate or Replace             33,599,000
                                      Park.                        Water Treatment System.
MA.................................  Boston National Historical   Rehabilitate Building 107           59,392,000
                                      Park.                        and Demolish Hoosac Stores
                                                                   Warehouse Building--Phase
                                                                   II.
MD.................................  Hampton National Historic    Preserve Historic                   15,375,000
                                      Site.                        Structures.
MI.................................  Sleeping Bear Dunes          Rehabilitate Facilities on          31,860,000
                                      National Lakeshore.          Manitou Islands.
MN.................................  Voyageurs National Park....  Replace Power Distribution          13,856,000
                                                                   Line Connecting Kettle
                                                                   Falls Hotel.
MO.................................  Gateway Arch National Park.  Preserve Features and               17,110,000
                                                                   Systems of the Old
                                                                   Courthouse.
NH.................................  Saint-Gaudens National       Replace Electrical, HVAC,           14,434,000
                                      Historical Park.             and Alarm Systems, and
                                                                   Rehabilitate Four Historic
                                                                   Structures.
NY.................................  Gateway National Recreation  Rehabilitate Hangars 3 and          25,625,000
                                      Area.                        4 at Floyd Bennett Field.
OK.................................  Chickasaw National           Address Critical Repairs in         38,564,000
                                      Recreation Area.             the Platt and Buckhorn
                                                                   Developed Areas.
PR.................................  San Juan National Historic   Repair Historic Walls of            41,662,000
                                      Site.                        Park Fortifications.
SC.................................  Fort Sumter and Fort         Repair or Replace Docks at          38,409,000
                                      Moultrie National            Fort Moultrie and Liberty
                                      Historical Park.             Square.
UT.................................  Bryce Canyon National Park.  Rehabilitate the Main Water         15,326,000
                                                                   System.
VI.................................  Virgin Islands National      Replace Water and                   21,300,000
                                      Park.                        Wastewater Systems at
                                                                   Cinnamon and Trunk Bays.
WI.................................  Apostle Islands National     Rehabilitate Waterfront at          17,200,000
                                      Lakeshore.                   Little Sand Bay and Devils
                                                                   Island, and Reconstruct
                                                                   Boathouse.
WV.................................  New River Gorge National     Remove Excess Structures            36,169,000
                                      Park and Preserve.           and Abandoned Buildings--
                                                                   Phase II, and Address
                                                                   Deficient Utilities,
                                                                   Historic Structures, and
                                                                   Visitor Facilities.
Multiple...........................  Maintenance Action Teams at  Maintenance Action Teams...         25,000,000
                                      Multiple Parks.
                                     Subtotal, National Park      ...........................      1,008,105,000
                                      Service Projects.
                                     Contingency Fund...........  ...........................        172,816,491
                                     FY25+ Project Planning &     ...........................        145,000,000
                                      Compliance.
                                     Program Administration       ...........................         19,950,000
                                      (Indirect Costs).
                                     Project Management.........  ...........................         35,000,000
                                     2023 Previously Sequestered  ...........................         75,810,000
                                      Budget Authority.
                                     2024 Sequester.............  ...........................        -75,810,000
                                     TOTAL, National Park         ...........................      1,380,871,491
                                      Service.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                           Bureau of Indian Education
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AZ.................................  Navajo Region..............  Many Farms High School.....         95,783,678
                                     Subtotal, Bureau of Indian   ...........................         95,783,678
                                      Education Projects.
                                     Program Administration       ...........................          2,850,000
                                      (Indirect Costs).
                                     2023 Previously Sequestered  ...........................          5,415,000
                                      Budget Authority.
                                     2024 Sequester.............  ...........................         -5,415,000
                                     TOTAL, Bureau of Indian      ...........................         98,633,678
                                      Education.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                               U.S. Forest Service
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WI, PR, PA, MT, NC.................  R&D Facilities Research and  ...........................          1,175,000
                                      Development Deferred
                                      Maintenance.
MT.................................  Aerial Fire Depot..........  Missoula Smokejumper                 1,150,000
                                                                   Visitor Center Renovation.
MT.................................  Beaverhead-Deerlodge         Beaverhead-Deerlodge                   710,000
                                      National Forest.             National Forest Deferred
                                                                   Maintenance.
MT, SD.............................  Custer Gallatin National     Custer Gallatin National             4,640,000
                                      Forest.                      Forest Deferred
                                                                   Maintenance.
ND.................................  Dakota Prairie Grasslands..  National North Country                 130,000
                                                                   Scenic Trail Deferred
                                                                   Maintenance.
ID, MT.............................  Flathead National Forest...  Flathead National Forest             2,857,000
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.
MT.................................  Helena-Lewis and Clark       Helena-Lewis and Clark               4,900,000
                                      National Forest.             National Forest Deferred
                                                                   Maintenance.
ID.................................  Idaho Panhandle National     Idaho Panhandle National             4,975,000
                                      Forests.                     Forests Deferred
                                                                   Maintenance.
MT.................................  Kootenai National Forest...  Kootenai National Forest             4,186,000
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.
MT.................................  Lolo National Forest.......  Seeley Lake Bunkhouse                  515,000
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.
ID, MT.............................  Nez Perce-Clearwater         Nez Perce-Clearwater                 2,780,000
                                      National Forest.             National Forest Deferred
                                                                   Maintenance.
CO.................................  Arapahoe-Roosevelt National  Arapahoe-Roosevelt National          4,889,000
                                      Forest.                      Forest Deferred
                                                                   Maintenance.
WY.................................  Bighorn National Forest....  Bighorn National Forest              1,900,000
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.
SD.................................  Black Hills National Forest  Black Hills National Forest          1,056,000
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.
CO.................................  Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre,     Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre,             3,402,000
                                      and Gunnison National        and Gunnison National
                                      Forests.                     Forests Deferred
                                                                   Maintenance.
CO,WY..............................  Medicine Bow-Routt National  Medicine Bow-Routt National          2,882,000
                                      Forest.                      Forest Deferred
                                                                   Maintenance.
NE.................................  Nebraska National Forest...  Nebraska National Forest               590,000
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.
CO, KS.............................  Pike San Isabel National     Pike San Isabel National             2,522,000
                                      Forest and Cimarron and      Forest and Cimarron and
                                      Comanche National            Comanche National
                                      Grasslands.                  Grasslands Deferred
                                                                   Maintenance.
CO, NM.............................  Rocky Mountain Region......  Colorado Fourteeners Trail             661,000
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.
CO.................................  San Juan National Forest...  San Juan National Forest             1,257,000
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.
WY.................................  Shoshone National Forest...  Shoshone National Forest             2,153,000
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.
CO.................................  White River National Forest  White River National Forest          6,256,000
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.
AZ.................................  Apache-Sitgreaves National   Apache-Sitgreaves National           2,110,000
                                      Forest.                      Forest Deferred
                                                                   Maintenance.
NM.................................  Carson National Forest.....  Hopewell Lake Day Use And            1,090,000
                                                                   Campground Renovations &
                                                                   Improvements.
AZ.................................  Coconino National Forest...  Coconino National Forest             3,145,000
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.
AZ.................................  Coronado National Forest...  Coronado National Forest             3,625,000
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.
NM.................................  Gila National Forest.......  Gila National Forest                 1,100,000
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.

[[Page S1690]]

 
NM.................................  Lincoln National Forest....  Cedar Creek Trail Access                50,000
                                                                   Capital Improvement.
AZ.................................  Prescott National Forest...  Prescott Trails Maintenance            450,000
NM.................................  Santa Fe National Forest...  Santa Fe National Forest             4,170,000
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.
AZ, NM.............................  Southwestern Region........  Southwestern Region                  1,131,000
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.
UT.................................  Ashley National Forest.....  Uinta Guard Station                    100,000
                                                                   Rehabilitation.
ID.................................  Boise National Forest......  Boise National Forest                3,446,000
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.
WY.................................  Bridger-Teton National       Upper Green River Corridor             850,000
                                      Forest.                      Road Improvement Phase One.
UT.................................  Dixie National Forest......  Escalante Ranger District              520,000
                                                                   Housing.
UT.................................  Fishlake National Forest...  Fishlake National Forest             3,989,000
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.
CA, NV.............................  Humboldt-Toiyabe National    Humboldt-Toiyabe National            4,015,000
                                      Forest.                      Forest Deferred
                                                                   Maintenance.
CO, UT.............................  Manti-La Sal National        Manti-La Sal National                  115,000
                                      Forest.                      Forest Road and Trail
                                                                   Signage.
ID.................................  Payette National Forest....  Payette National Forest              3,000,000
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.
ID.................................  Salmon-Challis National      Boundary-Dagger Road Repair          1,800,000
                                      Forest.
UT.................................  Uinta-Wasatch-Cache          Uinta-Wasatch-Cache                  8,372,000
                                      National Forest.             National Forest Deferred
                                                                   Maintenance.
CA.................................  Angeles National Forest....  Angeles National Forest              2,275,000
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.
CA.................................  Cleveland National Forest..  Cleveland National Forest            4,440,000
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.
CA.................................  Eldorado National Forest...  Eldorado National Forest               745,000
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.
CA.................................  Inyo National Forest.......  Inyo National Forest                 1,602,000
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.
CA, OR.............................  Klamath National Forest....  Forest-Wide Interpretive                25,000
                                                                   Signs and Trail Markers.
CA.................................  Lake Tahoe Basin Management  Lake Tahoe Basin Management          3,160,000
                                      Unit.                        Unit Deferred Maintenance.
CA.................................  Lassen National Forest.....  Forest Wide Toilet                     510,000
                                                                   Replacement.
CA.................................  Modoc National Forest......  Modoc National Forest                4,250,000
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.
CA.................................  Pacific Southwest Region...  Pacific Southwest Region             3,105,000
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.
CA.................................  Plumas National Forest.....  Fire Detection and                     200,000
                                                                   Recreation Lookout
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance
                                                                   Upgrades.
CA.................................  San Bernardino National      San Bernardino National                430,000
                                      Forest.                      Forest Deferred
                                                                   Maintenance.
CA.................................  Sequoia National Forest....  Southern Sierra Campground             100,000
                                                                   and Day Use Site Toilet
                                                                   Replacement and
                                                                   Accessibility Upgrades.
CA.................................  Shasta Trinity National      Harrison Gulch Barracks and          3,200,000
                                      Forest.                      Water System Deferred
                                                                   Maintenance.
CA.................................  Sierra National Forest.....  Sierra Vista Scenic Byway            4,400,000
                                                                   Rehabilitation Project.
CA.................................  Six Rivers National Forest.  Six Rivers National Forest           1,850,000
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.
CA.................................  Stanislaus National Forest.  Barracks Repairs and                 1,192,000
                                                                   Retrofitting.
CA.................................  Tahoe National Forest......  Tahoe National Forest                4,132,000
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.
OR, WA.............................  Columbia River Gorge         Columbia River Gorge                 3,025,000
                                      National Scenic Area.        National Scenic Area
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.
WA.................................  Colville National Forest...  Colville National Forest               990,000
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.
OR.................................  Deschutes National Forest..  Forest-Wide Trail Bridge                 4,000
                                                                   Reconstruction.
OR.................................  Fremont Winema National      Aspen Point Campground and           2,700,000
                                      Forest.                      Restroom Replacements.
WA.................................  Gifford Pinchot National     Gifford Pinchot National             6,218,000
                                      Forest.                      Forest Deferred
                                                                   Maintenance.
WA.................................  Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie         Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie                 2,077,000
                                      National Forest.             National Forest Deferred
                                                                   Maintenance.
OR.................................  Mt. Hood National Forest...  Zigzag Housing Improvement.          2,400,000
WA.................................  Okanogan Wenatchee National  Selkirks To Surf: North                925,000
                                      Forest.                      Cascades Recreation Scenic
                                                                   Corridor.
OR, WA, ID.........................  Pacific Northwest Region...  Pacific Northwest Region             5,350,000
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.
OR.................................  Umpqua National Forest.....  South Umpqua Transportation          2,000,000
                                                                   Remediation and Watershed
                                                                   Improvement To Aid In
                                                                   Critical Access and
                                                                   Aquatic Organism Passage.
OR.................................  Wallowa Whitman National     Scenic Byway Road Pavement           1,720,000
                                      Forest.                      Maintenance and Chip Seal.
OR.................................  Willamette National Forest.  Trail Bridge Replacement                30,000
                                                                   Project.
SC.................................  Francis Marion-Sumter        Francis Marion-Sumter                8,250,000
                                      National Forest.             National Forest Deferred
                                                                   Maintenance.
VA.................................  George Washington and        George Washington and                6,800,000
                                      Jefferson National Forests.  Jefferson National Forests
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.
KY, TN.............................  Land Between the Lakes.....  Brandon Spring Housing                 210,000
                                                                   Replacement.
FL.................................  National Forests in Florida  Osceola Administrative               6,950,000
                                                                   Office.
AR.................................  Ozark-St. Francis National   Ozark-St. Francis National           3,050,000
                                      Forest.                      Forest Deferred
                                                                   Maintenance.
PA.................................  Allegheny National Forest..  Allegheny National Forest           11,700,000
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.
WI.................................  Chequamegon-Nicolet          Chequamegon-Nicolet                  1,460,000
                                      National Forest.             National Forest Deferred
                                                                   Maintenance.
MN.................................  Chippewa National Forest...  Chippewa National Forest               845,000
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.
VT.................................  Green Mountain and Finger    Green Mountain and Finger              965,000
                                      Lakes National Forests.      Lakes National Forests
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.
MI.................................  Hiawatha National Forest...  Hiawatha National Forest             1,815,000
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.
IN.................................  Hoosier National Forest....  Hardin Ridge Shower-Bath-              750,000
                                                                   Campground Improvement.
MI.................................  Huron Manistee National      Pere Marquette Wild and                425,000
                                      Forest.                      Scenic River Green Cottage
                                                                   Access Improvements.
WV.................................  Monongahela National Forest  Holcomb Bridge Replacement.            685,000
MI.................................  Ottawa National Forest.....  Nesbit Road Rehabilitation.            520,000
IL.................................  Shawnee National Forest....  Lake Glendale Phased                   960,000
                                                                   Rehabilitation Project.
NH.................................  White Mountain National      White Mountain National                355,000
                                      Forest.                      Forest Deferred
                                                                   Maintenance.
AK.................................  Chugach National Forest....  Chugach National Forest              2,400,000
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.
AK.................................  Tongass National Forest....  Tongass National Forest             23,451,000
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance.
                                     Subtotal, U.S. Forest        ...........................        233,310,000
                                      Service Projects.
                                     Administrative Funds.......  ...........................         21,000,000
                                     Contingency Fund...........  ...........................         41,620,949
                                     2023 Previously Sequestered  ...........................         16,245,000
                                      Budget Authority.
                                     2024 Sequester.............  ...........................       (16,245,000)
                                     TOTAL, U.S. Forest Service.  ...........................        295,930,949
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


     ALLOCATION OF FUNDS: NATIONAL PARKS AND PUBLIC LAND LEGACY RESTORATION FUND FISCAL YEAR 2023 REVISIONS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                         U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CA.................................  Tule Lake NWR..............  Consolidate and Modernize            1,280,000
                                                                   Public Use Facilities,
                                                                   Improve Waterfowl Hunting
                                                                   Areas and Improve
                                                                   Recreational Access
                                                                   (rescoped, FY21 funded
                                                                   project).
WV.................................  Ohio River Islands National  Rehabilitation of the                        0
                                      Wildlife Refuge.             Multipurpose Headquarters
                                                                   Building (removal).
                                                                  Contingency Fund...........          3,693,685
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                              National Park Service
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CA.................................  Golden Gate National         Stabilize Alcatraz Wharf             1,186,279
                                      Recreation Area.             (rescoped, FY22 funded
                                                                   project).
ID.................................  Craters of the Moon          Rehabilitate Operational             9,932,000
                                      National Monument and        Buildings at Idaho Parks
                                      Preserve, Hagerman Fossil    (rescoped).
                                      Beds National Monument,
                                      Minidoka National Historic
                                      Site.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                               U.S. Forest Service
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CA.................................  Angeles National Forest....  Angeles National Forest              1,655,000
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance
                                                                   (reduced funding).
CA.................................  San Bernardino National      San Bernardino National                365,000
                                      Forest.                      Forest Deferred
                                                                   Maintenance (added
                                                                   funding).
CA.................................  Inyo National Forest.......  Day Use Sites Safety and             2,000,000
                                                                   Accessibility Improvements
                                                                   (reduced funding,
                                                                   administrative correction).
CA.................................  Pacific Southwest Region...  Pacific Southwest Region            11,840,300
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance
                                                                   (additional project,
                                                                   administrative correction).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page S1691]]


     ALLOCATION OF FUNDS: NATIONAL PARKS AND PUBLIC LAND LEGACY RESTORATION FUND FISCAL YEAR 2022 REVISIONS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                            Bureau of Land Management
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WY.................................  High Desert District/High    Wyoming BLM Dam Safety               2,795,000
                                      Plains District.             Repairs and Maintenance
                                                                   Projects (rescoped).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                         U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
IL.................................  Crab Orchard NWR...........  Modernize Public Use                   350,644
                                                                   Facilities, Repair Seismic
                                                                   Issues and Improve
                                                                   Recreational Access--Phase
                                                                   I (rescoped, updated name,
                                                                   FY21 funded project).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                              National Park Service
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CA.................................  Golden Gate National         Stabilize Alcatraz Wharf            39,044,763
                                      Recreation Area.             (rescoped, FY23 funded
                                                                   project).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                               U.S. Forest Service
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AZ.................................  Prescott National Forest...  Prescott National Forest            972,642.46
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance
                                                                   (added funding).
CA.................................  Angeles National Forest....  Angeles National Forest             594,000.00
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance
                                                                   (reduced funding).
CA.................................  San Bernardino National      San Bernardino National           1,703,000.00
                                      Forest.                      Forest Deferred
                                                                   Maintenance (added
                                                                   funding).
IL.................................  Shawnee National Forest....  Shawnee National Forest           2,232,206.77
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance
                                                                   (added funding, includes
                                                                   movement of prior outlayed
                                                                   contingency funding from
                                                                   Hoosier as well).
IN.................................  Hoosier National Forest....  Hoosier National Forest             283,293.23
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance
                                                                   (reduced funding).
NM.................................  Lincoln National Forest....  Lincoln National Forest              43,357.54
                                                                   Deferred Maintenance
                                                                   (reduced funding).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


     ALLOCATION OF FUNDS: NATIONAL PARKS AND PUBLIC LAND LEGACY RESTORATION FUND FISCAL YEAR 2021 REVISIONS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                            Bureau of Land Management
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CA.................................  Central California District  Pleasant Valley Pit                    147,928
                                                                   Campground Maintenance and
                                                                   Rehabilitation.
ID.................................  National Interagency Fire    300-Jack Wilson                      1,009,177
                                      Center.                      Headquarters Repairs &
                                                                   Uninterruptible Power
                                                                   Supply Replacement.
ID.................................  Twin Falls District........  Shoshone Field Office                5,000,000
                                                                   Replacement (rescoped,
                                                                   FY24 funded project).
MT.................................  Eastern Montana/Dakotas      Stellar Creek Road Repair..            468,974
                                      District.
MT.................................  Eastern Montana/Dakotas      Acton Road Gravel..........            237,515
                                      District.
MT.................................  North Central District.....  Grub Dam Rehabilitation....          1,601,587
MT.................................  Western Montana District...  Axolotl Lakes Road                     438,004
                                                                   Surfacing.
MT.................................  Western Montana District...  Beartooth Landing Dock.....             30,000
MT.................................  Eastern Montana/Dakotas      Eastern Montana Dakotas                165,697
                                      District.                    District Fog Seal.
NM.................................  Albuquerque District.......  Pinon Dam Repairs                      986,000
                                                                   (rescoped).
NM.................................  Las Cruces District........  Cox Well and Water System..             42,660
OR.................................  Prineville District........  Sunflower Creek Culvert                200,000
                                                                   Replacement--Phase II of
                                                                   II.
UT.................................  West Desert District.......  Rosebud Administrative Site            460,826
                                                                   Storage Structure
                                                                   Replacement.
WY.................................  Wind River/Bighorn Basin     Hyattville Logging Road....            887,073
                                      District.
                                                                  Contingency Fund...........            508,561
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                         U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CA.................................  Tule Lake NWR..............  Consolidate and Modernize            9,409,000
                                                                   Public Use Facilities,
                                                                   Improve Waterfowl Hunting
                                                                   Areas and Improve
                                                                   Recreational Access
                                                                   (rescoped, FY23 funded
                                                                   project).
IL.................................  Crab Orchard NWR...........  Modernize Public Use                24,929,000
                                                                   Facilities, Repair Seismic
                                                                   Issues and Improve
                                                                   Recreational Access--Phase
                                                                   I (rescoped, updated name,
                                                                   FY22 funded project).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                              National Park Service
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CA.................................  Yosemite National Park.....  Repair and Replace 70KV              8,927,052
                                                                   Transmission Line From
                                                                   Parkline to Hwy 140
                                                                   Powerhouse.
DC.................................  National Mall & Memorial     Complete Jefferson Memorial          3,568,952
                                      Parks.                       Exterior Marble
                                                                   Restoration.
NY, NJ.............................  Gateway National Recreation  Replace Shoreline                   28,287,497
                                      Area.                        Stabilization Structures--
                                                                   Phase I (rescoped and
                                                                   updated name).
OH.................................  Cuyahoga Valley National     Demolish Vacant Excess               2,017,532
                                      Park.                        Structures.
                                     ...........................  Contingency Fund...........          4,475,001
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                               U.S. Forest Service
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CA.................................  Angeles National Forest....  West Fork San Gabriel                        0
                                                                   Accessible Fishing
                                                                   Opportunities (removal).
CA.................................  Six Rivers National Forest.  Recreation And Admin                         0
                                                                   Facilities Water Systems
                                                                   Upgrades For Safe Water
                                                                   Use (renaming).
CO.................................  Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre,     Replace Damaged Or Missing                   0
                                      and Gunnison National        Kiosks At Recreation Sites
                                      Forests.                     (renaming).
CO.................................  Research and Development...  Fraser Water Quality                   624,195
                                                                   Research Weir (added
                                                                   funding).
ID.................................  Idaho Panhandle National     Green Bay Campground                         0
                                      Forest.                      Improvements (renaming).

[[Page S1692]]

 
ID.................................  Idaho Panhandle National     Toilet Replacements At                       0
                                      Forest.                      Recreation Sites Near
                                                                   Coeur D'Alene (renaming).
ID.................................  Payette National Forest....  Huckleberry Campground                       0
                                                                   Water System Replacement
                                                                   (removal).
ID.................................  Payette National Forest....  Krassel Developed and                  225,798
                                                                   Dispersed Site Deferred
                                                                   Maintenance Project (added
                                                                   funding).
MT.................................  Custer Gallatin National     Pavement Preservation And                    0
                                      Forest.                      Replacement: West
                                                                   Yellowstone, Gallatin
                                                                   River, Beartooth
                                                                   Mountains, and Ashland
                                                                   (renaming).
ND.................................  Dakota Prairie Grasslands..  Grand River And Sheyenne                     0
                                                                   District Road
                                                                   Reconditioning, Spot
                                                                   Surfacing, And Drainage
                                                                   Repairs (renaming).
ND.................................  Dakota Prairie Grasslands..  Little Missouri Grasslands                   0
                                                                   Road Reconditioning, Spot
                                                                   Surfacing And Drainage
                                                                   Repairs (renaming).
OR, WA.............................  Pacific Northwest Region...  Regional Trail Bridge
                                                                   Replacement And Deferred
                                                                   Maintenance (renaming).
UT.................................  Ashley National Forest.....  Buckboard Waterline                          0
                                                                   Replacement (removal).
WY.................................  Bridger-Teton National       Forest Vault Toilet                          0
                                      Forest.                      Replacement (removal).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                     ALLOCATION OF FUNDS: LAND AND WATER CONSERVATION FUND FISCAL YEAR 2024
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                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
                                          Total Net Budget Authority, Office of the Secretary         19,000,000
                                          Total 2023 Sequestered Budget Authority............          1,083,000
                                          Total New Budget Authority, Office of the Secretary         19,000,000
                                          Total 2024 Sequester...............................        (1,083,000)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                            Bureau of Land Management
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                          Land Acquisition...................................
                                          Acquisition Management.............................          8,527,000
                                          Recreational Access................................         20,500,000
                                          Inholdings, Emergencies & Hardships................          9,000,000
MT......................................  Blackfoot River Watershed..........................          2,200,000
CA......................................  California Coastal National Monument...............         10,500,000
ID......................................  Henry's Lake Area of Critical Environmental Concern          7,450,000
                                           and Island Park.
CA......................................  California Wilderness..............................          4,000,000
CO......................................  South San Juan Project Area........................          4,500,000
AZ......................................  Lower Gila Terraces and Historic Trails Area of              2,500,000
                                           Critical Environmental Concern.
ID......................................  Sands Desert Habitat Management Area...............          2,600,000
UT......................................  Red Cliffs National Conservation Area..............          2,100,000
                                          Subtotal, Land Acquisition Projects................         35,850,000
                                          TOTAL, Bureau of Land Management...................         73,877,000
                                          Total Net Budget Authority, Bureau of Land                  73,877,000
                                           Management.
                                          Total 2023 Sequestered Budget Authority............          3,994,389
                                          Total New Budget Authority, Bureau of Land                  74,106,192
                                           Management.
                                          Total 2024 Sequester...............................        (4,224,081)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                         U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                          Land Acquisition...................................  .................
                                          Highlands Conservation Act (P.L. 108-421)..........         10,000,000
                                          Land Acquisition Management........................         18,028,000
                                          Sportsmen and Recreational Access..................         15,500,000
                                          Inholding/Emergencies and Hardships................         11,000,000
                                          Exchanges..........................................          1,591,000
                                          Land Protection Planning...........................            493,000
FL......................................  Everglades Headwaters National Wildlife Refuge and          10,000,000
                                           Conservation Area.
TX......................................  Attwater Prairie Chicken National Wildlife Refuge..          4,500,000
Mult....................................  Dakota Grassland Conservation Area (ND/SD).........          6,000,000
Mult....................................  Great Thicket National Wildlife Refuge (CT, MA, ME,          1,000,000
                                           NH, NY, RI).
ME......................................  Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge.............          1,500,000
Mult....................................  Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge              500,000
                                           (CT, MA, NH, VT).
OR......................................  Willamette Valley Conservation Area................          3,500,000
CA......................................  Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife              4,690,000
                                           Refuge.
AR......................................  Cache River National Wildlife Refuge...............            500,000
Mult....................................  Dakota Tallgrass Prairie Wildlife Management Area            2,000,000
                                           (ND/SD).
Mult....................................  Northern Tallgrass Prairie National Wildlife Refuge            500,000
                                           (IA/MN).
TX......................................  Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge...........          2,000,000
PA......................................  Cherry Valley National Wildlife Refuge.............          1,000,000
CA......................................  Grasslands Wildlife Management Area................          1,000,000
CA......................................  Stone Lakes National Wildlife Refuge...............          3,000,000
WA......................................  Willapa National Wildlife Refuge...................          6,000,000
VA......................................  Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge.            500,000
IN......................................  Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge..............          2,000,000
Mult....................................  Bear River Watershed Conservation Area (ID, UT, WY)            950,000
IL......................................  Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge.............            500,000
KS......................................  Flint Hills Legacy Conservation Area...............            500,000
AK......................................  Alaska Peninsula National Wildlife Refuge..........          2,200,000
WY......................................  Wyoming Toad Conservation Area.....................          1,500,000
KY......................................  Green River National Wildlife Refuge...............          1,000,000
CA......................................  Tulare Basin Wildlife Management Area..............          1,000,000
FL......................................  St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge.................          1,000,000
Mult....................................  Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish             500,000
                                           Refuge (IA, IL, MN, WI).
TX......................................  Lower Rio Grande National Wildlife Refuge..........          2,000,000
Mult....................................  Middle Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge              500,000
                                           (IL/MO).
OR......................................  Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge..............            500,000
                                          Total, Land Acquisition............................         62,340,000
                                          Total Net Budget Authority, Fish and Wildlife              118,952,000
                                           Service--Land Acquisition.
                                          Total 2023 Sequestered Budget Authority............          6,494,637
                                          Total New Budget Authority, Fish and Wildlife              119,254,892
                                           Service--Land Acquisition.
                                          Total 2024 Sequester...............................        (6,797,529)
                                          Cooperative Endangered Species Fund................
                                          Species Recovery Land Acquisition..................         14,162,000
                                          Habitat Conservation Plan Acquisition..............         26,000,000
                                          Total, Cooperative Endangered Species Fund.........         40,162,000
                                          Total Net Budget Authority, Fish and Wildlife               40,162,000
                                           Service--Cooperative Endangered Species Fund.
                                          Total 2023 Sequestered Budget Authority............          1,869,600
                                          Total New Budget Authority, Fish and Wildlife               40,606,999
                                           Service--Cooperative Endangered Species Fund.
                                          Total 2024 Sequester...............................        (2,314,599)
                                          TOTAL, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service..............        159,114,000
                                          Total Net Budget Authority, U.S. Fish and Wildlife         159,114,000
                                           Service.

[[Page S1693]]

 
                                          Total 2023 Sequestered Budget Authority............          8,364,237
                                          Total New Budget Authority, U.S. Fish and Wildlife         159,861,891
                                           Service.
                                          Total 2024 Sequester...............................        (9,112,128)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                              National Park Service
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                          Land Acquisition and State Assistance..............
                                          State Conservation Grants..........................        167,197,000
                                          LWCF Outdoor Recreation Legacy Grants..............        125,000,000
                                          State Conservation Grants Administration...........         13,347,000
                                          Use of unobligated balances (non-add)..............       [30,000,000]
                                          Subtotal, State Assistance.........................        305,544,000
                                          American Battlefield Protection Program (P.L. 113-          20,000,000
                                           287).
                                          Acquisition Management.............................         16,500,000
                                          Recreational Access................................         12,000,000
                                          Emergencies, Hardships, Relocations, and                     5,000,000
                                           Deficiencies.
                                          Inholding, Donations, and Exchanges................         21,645,000
WY......................................  Grand Teton National Park..........................         11,740,000
AK......................................  Yukon-Charley Rivers National Preserve.............          2,050,000
NM......................................  Valles Caldera National Preserve...................          2,500,000
UT......................................  Zion National Park.................................          2,600,000
Mult....................................  Battlefield Protection (Various)...................          2,680,000
MN......................................  Voyageurs National Park............................          1,500,000
WV......................................  Gauley River National Recreation Area..............            920,000
MO......................................  Ozark National Scenic Riverways....................            975,000
WV......................................  New River Gorge National Park and Preserve.........            655,000
MA......................................  Minute Man National Historical Park................          1,860,000
WA......................................  San Juan Island National Historical Park...........            905,000
MO......................................  Ste. Genevieve National Historical Park............            430,000
TN......................................  Obed Wild And Scenic River.........................            320,000
TX......................................  San Antonio Missions National Historical Park......          1,221,000
CO......................................  Rocky Mountain National Park.......................          3,000,000
Mult....................................  Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area              950,000
                                           (KY/TN).
SC......................................  Congaree National Park.............................            250,000
CA......................................  Death Valley National Park.........................            500,000
LA......................................  Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve.            390,000
MI......................................  Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.............          1,365,000
Mult....................................  Missouri National Recreation River (NE/SD).........          1,855,000
FL......................................  Big Cypress National Preserve......................            270,000
FL......................................  Biscayne National Park.............................          2,200,000
AK......................................  Lake Clark National Park and Preserve..............          8,044,000
                                          Subtotal, Land Acquisition Projects................         49,180,000
                                          TOTAL, National Park Service.......................        429,869,000
                                          Total Net Budget Authority, National Park Service..        429,869,000
                                          Total 2023 Sequestered Budget Authority............         26,322,828
                                          Total New Budget Authority, National Park Service..        427,938,677
                                          Total 2024 Sequester...............................       (24,392,505)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                               U.S. Forest Service
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                          Land Acquisition...................................
                                          Acquisition Management.............................         13,861,000
                                          Recreational Access................................         13,000,000
                                          Critical Inholdings/Wilderness.....................          5,500,000
                                          Cash Equalization..................................            250,000
WA......................................  Okanogan-Wenatchee NF I............................         12,000,000
CO......................................  Rio Grande National Forest.........................          8,000,000
CO......................................  White River National Forest........................          1,250,000
MT......................................  Lolo National Forest...............................         10,500,000
WA......................................  Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest II..............          7,000,000
AZ......................................  Prescott National Forest I.........................         10,340,000
GA......................................  Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest...............          3,844,000
MT......................................  Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest II............          1,620,000
AZ......................................  Coronado National Forest I.........................          2,500,000
UT......................................  Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest................          4,000,000
AL......................................  National Forests in Alabama........................          4,150,000
MT......................................  Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest I.............          1,927,000
CO......................................  San Juan National Forest...........................          4,000,000
CA......................................  Shasta-Trinity National Forest.....................          2,000,000
ME......................................  White Mountain National Forest.....................          3,178,000
Mult....................................  Treasures of the Central Appalachians Initiative            11,649,000
                                           (NC, TN, WV).
AZ......................................  Coronado National Forest II........................          5,316,000
                                          Subtotal, Land Acquisition Projects................         93,274,000
                                          Total, Land Acquisition............................        125,885,000
                                          Total Net Budget Authority, Forest Service--Land           125,885,000
                                           Acquisition.
                                          Total 2023 Sequestered Budget Authority............          7,092,966
                                          Total New Budget Authority, Forest Service--Land           125,972,464
                                           Acquisition.
                                          Total 2024 Sequester...............................        (7,180,430)
                                          Forest Legacy Program..............................
                                          Administrative Funds...............................          8,000,000
MT......................................  Upper Thompson Connectivity Project................          7,000,000
MI......................................  Michigamme Highlands Project.......................         15,075,000
GA......................................  Dugdown Mountain Corridor Stateline Georgia Project         17,500,000
IA......................................  Little Sioux Forest Project........................          4,650,000
ME......................................  South Branch Forest Project........................          1,150,000
VA......................................  Buffalo Mountain Natural Area Preserve Expansion             9,500,000
                                           Project.
AL......................................  Dugdown Mountain Corridor Stateline Alabama........          3,750,000
NC......................................  Roanoke River Bottomlands Forest Project...........          3,000,000
ID......................................  Spirit of Mount Spokane Conservation Project.......          5,000,000
WA......................................  Mt. Adams Forest Project...........................         14,000,000
OR......................................  Tualatin Mountain Forest Project...................          3,630,000
                                          Subtotal, Forest Legacy Projects...................         84,255,000
                                          Total, Forest Legacy Program.......................         92,255,000
                                          Total Net Budget Authority, Forest Service--Forest          92,255,000
                                           Legacy.
                                          Total 2023 Sequestered Budget Authority............          4,442,580
                                          Total New Budget Authority, Forest Service--Forest          93,120,276
                                           Legacy.
                                          Total 2024 Sequester...............................        (5,307,586)
                                          Total, U.S. Forest Service.........................        218,140,000
                                          Total Net Budget Authority, U.S. Forest Service....        218,140,000
                                          Total 2023 Sequestered Budget Authority............         11,535,546
                                          Total New Budget Authority, U.S. Forest Service....        219,092,740
                                          Total 2024 Sequester...............................       (12,488,286)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                          Total, Land and Water Conservation Fund Fiscal Year        900,000,000
                                           2024.
                                          Total Net Budget Authority, Land and Water                 900,000,000
                                           Conservation Fund.
                                          Total 2023 Sequestered Budget Authority............         51,300,000
                                          Total New Budget Authority, Land and Water                 900,000,000
                                           Conservation Fund.
                                          Total 2024 Sequester...............................       (51,300,000)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page S1694]]


                ALLOCATION OF FUNDS: LAND AND WATER CONSERVATION FUND FISCAL YEAR 2021 REVISIONS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                      U.S. Forest Service, Land Acquisition
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AL......................................  NFs in Alabama (Alabama's Wild Wonders I)..........            614,059
SC......................................  Sumter (Promise of the Piedmont I).................          1,544,000
AL......................................  Conecuh National Forest............................            312,341
SC......................................  Francis Marion and Sumter National Forest..........            113,000
SC......................................  Francis Marion and Sumter National Forest..........          1,343,000
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                   U.S. Forest Service, Forest Legacy Program
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WA......................................  Yacolt Forest Phase II.............................                  0
HI......................................  Hawaii Koa Forest..................................                  0
TN......................................  Myers Cove.........................................          2,400,000
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                ALLOCATION OF FUNDS: LAND AND WATER CONSERVATION FUND FISCAL YEAR 2022 REVISIONS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                      U.S. Forest Service, Land Acquisition
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FL......................................  National Forests in Florida--Longleaf Pine                  17,847,000
                                           Restoration Initiative.
FL......................................  National Forests in Florida (Butler Tract).........          1,153,000
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                ALLOCATION OF FUNDS: LAND AND WATER CONSERVATION FUND FISCAL YEAR 2023 REVISIONS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                     National Park Service, Land Acquisition
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
N/A.....................................  Acquisition Management.............................          9,500,000
Mult....................................  Inholdings.........................................          5,000,000
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   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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[[Page S1867]]

  


  EXPLANATORY STATEMENT SUBMITTED BY MRS. MURRAY, CHAIR OF THE SENATE 
    COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS, REGARDING H.R. 4366, CONSOLIDATED 
                        APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2024

       The following is an explanation of the Consolidated 
     Appropriations Act, 2024.

DIVISION F--TRANSPORTATION, HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, AND RELATED 
                   AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2024

                        Congressional Directives

       The joint explanatory statement accompanying this division 
     is approved and indicates congressional intent. Unless 
     otherwise noted, the language set forth in House Report 118-
     154 and Senate Report 118-70 carry 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 and Senate have 
     directed the submission of a report, such report is to be 
     submitted to both the House and Senate Committees on 
     Appropriations. The Department of Transportation [DOT] and 
     the Department of Housing and Urban Development [HUD] are 
     directed to notify the House and Senate Committees on 
     Appropriations 7 days prior to the announcement of a new 
     program, initiative, or authority.
                                  ____



              OPERATING PLANS AND REPROGRAMMING GUIDELINES

       Reprogramming requests must be submitted to the Committees 
     on Appropriations no later than June 30, 2024, and include 
     funding provided by this act and division J of Public Law 
     117-58, consistent with Senate direction.
       The table in the operating plan required by the House and 
     Senate Committees on Appropriations shall apply to all items 
     for which a dollar amount is specified and to all programs 
     for which new budget (obligational) authority is provided, as 
     well as to discretionary grants and discretionary grant 
     allocations. The operating plan must also identify items of 
     special congressional interest.


                         REPORTING REQUIREMENTS

       Each DOT and HUD agency is expected to comply with report 
     deadlines, as directed by the House, Senate, and this joint 
     explanatory statement. In lieu of House Section 422, DOT and 
     HUD are directed to provide the Committee with quarterly 
     written notifications on the status of pending reports 
     required by this and prior appropriations acts.

                                TITLE I

                      DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

                        Office of the Secretary


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement provides $191,295,000 for the salaries and 
     expenses of the Office of the Secretary [OST], to remain 
     available until September 30, 2025.
       Of the total amount, the agreement supports the funding 
     directives identified in Senate Report 118-70 and provides 
     the following levels for each office.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                             Agreement
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Office of the Secretary.................................      $3,770,000
Office of the Deputy Secretary..........................       1,370,000
Office of the General Counsel...........................      32,272,000
Office of the Under Secretary for Policy *..............      20,064,000
Office of the Assistant Secretary for Budget and              22,724,000
 Programs...............................................
Office of the Assistant Secretary for Government Affairs       7,138,000
Office of the Assistant Secretary for Administration....      43,284,000
Office of Public Affairs and Public Engagement..........       6,244,000
Office of the Executive Secretariat.....................       2,515,000
Office of Intelligence, Security, and Emergency Response      16,506,000
Office of the Chief Information Officer.................      33,879,000
Office of Tribal Government Affairs.....................       1,529,000
                                                         ---------------
    Total...............................................     191,295,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Includes the Office of Multimodal Freight Infrastructure Policy.

       Congressional budget justifications.--The agreement reminds 
     OST to delineate the funding for salaries and expenses [S&E] 
     and number of full-time equivalent [FTE] and full-time 
     permanent [FTP] positions separate and distinct from the 
     programmatic funding, including in the detailed tables in the 
     congressional budget justification. This shall include all 
     S&E funding and FTE/FTP positions provided by administrative 
     takedowns from any and all budgetary resources.
       Office of Multimodal Freight Infrastructure and Policy.--
     The agreement does not include the request of $5,300,000 for 
     the freight logistics optimization works program or expect 
     the related briefing. The report on the establishment of this 
     office, as directed in Senate Report 118-70, has been 
     satisfied and is no longer required.


                        RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY

       The agreement provides $49,040,000 for research and 
     technology, of which $22,500,000 shall remain available until 
     expended. Of the total amount, the agreement provides the 
     following levels for specific activities:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Advanced research projects agency-                           $10,000,000
 infrastructure................................
[Bridges and other infrastructure research]....              [8,000,000]
National laboratory partnerships...............                2,500,000
Position navigation and timing ................         Up to 15,000,000
Tribal traffic fatalities pilot program........                2,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Position navigation and timing [PNT] technologies and 
     global positioning system [GPS] backup.--The agreement 
     continues to support investment in GPS backup/complementary 
     PNT technologies and provides at least $8,000,000 and up to 
     $15,000,000 in fiscal year 2024. This amount is in addition 
     to $16,478,374 in carryover from prior year appropriations. 
     This investment will facilitate the wide adoption of multiple 
     technologies that provide the necessary GPS backup and 
     complementary PNT as identified in 2021 in the report 
     entitled ``Complementary PNT and GPS Backup Technologies 
     Demonstration Report'' [DOT-VNTSC-20-07]. The agreement 
     commends the Department for its action to ensure 
     cybersecurity and all-hazards resilience, including PNT, are 
     part of the standard notice of funding opportunity [NOFO] 
     language in the Department's discretionary grant programs. As 
     such, the agreement expects the Department to provide 
     adequate notice to its recipients to ensure eligible 
     recipients are informed of the eligible activities. The 
     agreement expects the Department to update the House and 
     Senate Committees on Appropriations of its progress on the 
     complementary action plan within 180 days of enactment of 
     this act.


                  NATIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENTS

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The agreement provides $345,000,000 for local and regional 
     project assistance grants as authorized under 49 U.S.C. 6702, 
     to remain available until expended. Of this amount, not less 
     than 5 percent is for projects in historically disadvantaged 
     communities or areas of persistent poverty. The agreement 
     directs the Secretary to take such measures to ensure an 
     equitable geographic distribution of funds, an appropriate 
     balance in addressing the needs of rural and urban 
     communities, including Tribal areas, and the investment in a 
     variety of transportation modes. Consistent with 49 U.S.C. 
     6702, not more than 50 percent of the funding shall be 
     allocated to projects in rural and urbanized areas, 
     respectively. Further, the agreement requires the Secretary 
     to consider and award projects solely based upon the 
     selection criteria in 49 U.S.C. 6702(d)(3) and (d)(4).


     NATIONAL SURFACE TRANSPORTATION AND INNOVATIVE FINANCE BUREAU

       The agreement provides $9,558,000 for the National Surface 
     Transportation and Innovative Finance Bureau, to remain 
     available until expended.


              RURAL AND TRIBAL INFRASTRUCTURE ADVANCEMENT

       The agreement provides $25,000,000 for the rural and Tribal 
     infrastructure advancement program as authorized by section 
     21205 of Public Law 117-58, to remain available until 
     September 30, 2026.


       RAILROAD REHABILITATION AND IMPROVEMENT FINANCING PROGRAM

       The agreement authorizes the Secretary to issue direct 
     loans and loan guarantees pursuant to chapter 224 of title 
     49, United States Code.


                      FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT CAPITAL

       The agreement provides $5,000,000 for the financial 
     management capital program, to remain available until 
     September 30, 2025.


                       CYBER SECURITY INITIATIVES

       The agreement provides $49,000,000 for departmental cyber 
     security initiatives, to remain available until September 30, 
     2025.


                         OFFICE OF CIVIL RIGHTS

       The agreement provides $18,228,000 for the Office of Civil 
     Rights. The agreement specifies that amounts provided above 
     the fiscal year 2023 enacted level are to accommodate 
     adjustments to base.


           TRANSPORTATION PLANNING, RESEARCH, AND DEVELOPMENT

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The agreement provides $24,369,000 for planning, research, 
     and development activities, to remain available until 
     expended. Of this amount, $5,436,000 is for the Interagency 
     Infrastructure Permitting Improvement Center and $3,443,000 
     is for the purposes and amounts specified in the table 
     entitled ``Community Project Funding/Congressionally Directed 
     Spending'' included in this joint explanatory statement. 
     Further, the agreement directs that the specific funding 
     allocated in the table entitled ``Community Project Funding/
     Congressionally Directed Spending'' included in this joint 
     explanatory statement shall not diminish or prejudice any 
     application or geographic region to receive other 
     discretionary grants or loans.
       Non-traditional and emerging transportation technologies 
     [NETT] council.--The agreement provides up to $2,500,000 for 
     the NETT council to identify and resolve jurisdictional and 
     regulatory gaps or inconsistencies associated with safety, 
     environmental reviews, funding, and finance.
       Pozzolanic research.--The agreement provides $300,000 for 
     the office to conduct a report, in coordination with the 
     Federal Highway Administration [FHWA], on the use of 
     pozzolanic concrete in Federal infrastructure projects. The 
     report shall include the steps taken to assess the 
     durability, strength, cost and environmental impacts of 
     pozzolanic concrete compared with existing concrete products.


                          WORKING CAPITAL FUND

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The agreement limits expenditures for working capital fund 
     activities to $522,165,000.


       SMALL AND DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS UTILIZATION AND OUTREACH

       The agreement provides $5,330,000 for small and 
     disadvantaged business utilization and outreach, to remain 
     available until September 30, 2025.

[[Page S1868]]

  



                        PAYMENTS TO AIR CARRIERS

                    (AIRPORT AND AIRWAY TRUST FUND)

       The agreement provides $348,554,000 for payments to air 
     carriers, to remain available until expended, and continues 
     to waive certain eligibility requirements.


  ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS--OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION

                        (INCLUDING RESCISSIONS)

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       Section 101 prohibits funds available to the DOT from being 
     obligated for the Office of the Secretary of Transportation 
     to approve assessments or reimbursable agreements pertaining 
     to funds appropriated to the operating administrations, 
     except for activities underway on the date of enactment of 
     this act, unless such assessments or agreements have 
     completed the normal reprogramming process for congressional 
     notification.
       Section 102 requires the Secretary of Transportation to 
     post on the Internet a schedule of all council on credit and 
     finance meetings, agendas, and meeting minutes.
       Section 103 allows the DOT's working capital fund to 
     provide payments in advance to vendors for the Federal 
     transit pass fringe benefit program, and to provide full or 
     partial payments to, and to accept reimbursements from, 
     Federal agencies for transit benefit distribution services.
       Section 104 allows the DOT's working capital fund to use 
     certain recoveries from the transit benefit program to 
     improve the administration of that program.
       Section 105 requires approval from the Assistant Secretary 
     for Administration for retention or senior executive bonuses 
     for all DOT employees.
       Section 106 requires the DOT's working capital fund to 
     transfer equipment into the working capital fund and collect 
     replacement reserve for the equipment equal to the useful 
     life and estimated replacement cost of such equipment.
       Section 107 requires congressional notification before the 
     DOT provides credit assistance under the transportation 
     infrastructure finance and innovation act [TIFIA] program.
       Section 108 rescinds previous appropriations.
       Section 109 allows the operating administrations to 
     transfer funds to the Office of Tribal Government Affairs for 
     recipients of the Tribal transportation self-governance 
     program.
       Section 109A allows the Secretary to transfer and 
     consolidate administrative resources for certain programs.
       Section 109B makes funds available to address needs for 
     certain projects.
       Section 109C modifies the amount of funding reserved for 
     planning grants under the safe streets and roads for all 
     program.
       Section 109D extends the liquidation of valid obligations 
     for one fiscal year for amounts made available for the 
     national infrastructure investments program in Public Law 
     116-260.
       Section 109E increases the set-aside for certain eligible 
     recipients under the national infrastructure investments 
     program in Public Law 117-58.

                    Federal Aviation Administration


                               OPERATIONS

                    (AIRPORT AND AIRWAY TRUST FUND)

       The agreement provides $12,729,627,000 for the operations 
     of the Federal Aviation Administration [FAA], to remain 
     available until September 30, 2025. Of the total amount 
     provided, $12,093,150,000 is to be derived from the airport 
     and airway trust fund. The act distributes funds by budget 
     activity. The agreement does not include any specific 
     increases or reductions from the budget request and does not 
     include the directives in House Report 118-154 under the 
     heading ``Staff offices reductions.''
       Aviation safety.--Increased funding and staffing provided 
     by this act for aviation safety shall be prioritized to 
     improve the FAA's surveillance of production and 
     manufacturing activities as well as air carrier maintenance 
     resulting from the grounding and recent events involving the 
     Boeing 737-9 MAX aircraft.
       Aircraft certification service.--The agreement includes not 
     less than $351,373,000 for aircraft certification service and 
     includes the directives included under this heading in Senate 
     Report 118-70.
       Independent study on a future state of type certification 
     processes.--The agreement includes the directives in Senate 
     Report 118-70 under this heading, but does not include the 
     amounts provided in House Report 118-154 under the heading 
     ``Certification study.''
       Commercial space.--Within funding provided for commercial 
     space activities, the agreement does not include amounts in 
     House Report 118-154 for launch and reentry licensing 
     processes, but directs the FAA to dedicate resources to 
     improve these processes.
       Flight standards certification services oversight 
     process.--Within amounts provided, the agreement directs the 
     FAA to continue efforts to eliminate the backlog of 
     applications in the certification services oversight process 
     [CSOP] list and to brief the House and Senate Committees on 
     Appropriations within 90 days after the enactment of this act 
     on the staffing allocated to Part 135 and other CSOP-listed 
     applications, the size of the backlogs, the pace at which 
     applications are currently processed, and the steps the FAA 
     will take to provide a more timely process.
       Enhanced remote digital tower certification.--The agreement 
     amends the frequency of reports required in House Report 118-
     154 under this heading and instead directs the FAA to provide 
     a report to the Committees by December 31, 2024.
       Airport fees on transportation network companies [TNCs].--
     The agreement amends the direction required in House Report 
     118-154 under this heading, and instead directs the FAA to 
     use funding from within the airport cooperative research 
     program to update its research on TNCs and fee setting at 
     airports, survey of airport ground transportation laws, and 
     best practices on ground transportation.


                        FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT

                    (AIRPORT AND AIRWAY TRUST FUND)

       The agreement provides $3,191,250,000 for facilities and 
     equipment. Of the total amount available, $634,739,370 is for 
     personnel and related expenses and available until September 
     30, 2025; $2,496,360,630 is available until September 30, 
     2026; and $60,150,000 is for terminal facilities and is 
     available until September 30, 2028.
       The table below provides allocations of funds for FAA 
     facilities and equipment from the Infrastructure Investment 
     and Jobs Act [IIJA] for fiscal year 2024, which are subject 
     to section 405 of this act:

      ALLOCATION OF FUNDS FOR FAA FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT FROM THE
        INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT AND JOBS ACT--FISCAL YEAR 2024
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Agreement
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Terminal and En Route Air Traffic Control Facilities--      $585,000,000
 Replace.............................................
Unstaffed Infrastructure Sustainment and Real                 40,000,000
 Property Disposition ...............................
Electrical Power System--Sustain/Support and Fuel             90,000,000
 Storage Tank Replacement and Management.............
Hazardous Materials Management and National Airspace          45,000,000
 System [NAS] Facilities, OSHA, and Environmental
 Standards Compliance................................
Navigation, Landing and Lighting.....................         40,000,000
Personnel and Related Expenses.......................        200,000,000
                                                      ------------------
    Total............................................      1,000,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       The table below provides details by activity for FAA 
     facilities and equipment from funds made available under this 
     heading in this act:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Facilities and Equipment                    Agreement
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Activity 1--Engineering, Development, Test and
 Evaluation:
  Advanced Technology Development and Prototyping....        $32,718,000
  William J. Hughes Technical Center Laboratory               16,055,000
   Sustainment.......................................
  William J. Hughes Technical Center Infrastructure            9,500,000
   Sustainment.......................................
  NextGen--Separation Management Portfolio...........         13,680,000
  NextGen--Traffic Flow Management Portfolio.........          9,500,000
  NextGen--On Demand NAS Portfolio...................          8,075,000
  NextGen--NAS Infrastructure Portfolio..............         11,400,000
  NextGen--Support Portfolio.........................          4,750,000
  NextGen--Unmanned Aircraft Systems [UAS]...........         13,300,000
  NextGen--Enterprise, Concept Development, Human             10,450,000
   Factors, & Demonstrations Portfolio...............
                                                      ------------------
    Total Activity 1.................................        129,428,000
Activity 2--Air Traffic Control Facilities and
 Equipment:
a. En Route Programs
  En Route Automation Modernization [ERAM]--System            80,000,000
   Enhancements and Tech Refresh.....................
  Next Generation Weather Radar [NEXRAD].............          3,000,000
  Air Route Traffic Control Center [ARTCC] & Combined         39,900,000
   Control Facility [CCF] Building Improvements......
  Air/Ground Communications Infrastructure...........          5,700,000
  Air Traffic Control En Route Radar Facilities                5,977,630
   Improvements......................................
  Oceanic Automation System..........................          6,550,000
  Next Generation Very High Frequency Air/Ground              64,000,000
   Communications [NEXCOM]...........................
  System-Wide Information Management.................         66,500,000
  ADS-B NAS Wide Implementation......................        138,400,000
  Air Traffic Management Implementation Portfolio....         30,000,000
  Time Based Flow Management Portfolio...............         30,000,000
  NextGen Weather Processor..........................         48,700,000
  Data Communications in Support of NextGen Air               69,950,000
   Transportation System.............................
  Offshore Automation................................         59,600,000
  Reduced Oceanic Separation.........................          2,000,000
  En Route Service Improvements......................          2,000,000
  Commercial Space Integration.......................          1,000,000
                                                      ------------------
    Subtotal En Route Programs.......................        653,277,630
b. Terminal Programs
  Standard Terminal Automation Replacement System             90,100,000
   [STARS] [TAMR Phase 1]............................
  Terminal Automation Program........................          5,100,000
  Terminal Air Traffic Control Facilities--Replace...         20,150,000
  ATCT/Terminal Radar Approach Control [TRACON]               40,000,000
   Facilities--Improve...............................
  NAS Facilities OSHA and Environmental Standards             24,200,000
   Compliance........................................
  Integrated Display System [IDS]....................         55,250,000
  Terminal Flight Data Manager [TFDM]................         65,200,000
  Performance Based Navigation Support Portfolio.....          8,000,000
  Unmanned Aircraft Systems [UAS] Implementation.....          5,000,000
  Airport Ground Surveillance Portfolio..............         48,200,000
  Terminal and EnRoute Surveillance Portfolio........        107,300,000
  Terminal and EnRoute Voice Switch and Recorder              70,000,000
   Portfolio.........................................
  Enterprise Information Platform....................         11,000,000
  Remote Towers......................................          2,000,000
                                                      ------------------
    Subtotal Terminal Programs.......................        551,500,000
c. Flight Service Programs
  Future Flight Services Program.....................          1,500,000
  Alaska Flight Service Facility Modernization                 2,700,000
   [AFSFM]...........................................
  Weather Camera Program.............................          3,000,000
  Weather Systems Portfolio..........................         25,300,000
                                                      ------------------
    Subtotal Flight Service Programs.................         32,500,000
d. Landing and Navigational Aids Program
  Very High Frequency [VHF] Omnidirectional Radio              6,000,000
   Range [VOR] Minimum Operating Network [MON].......
  Wide Area Augmentation System [WAAS] for GPS.......         92,100,000
  Instrument Flight Procedures Automation [IFPA].....          2,000,000
  Runway Safety Areas--Navigational Mitigation.......          1,000,000
  Landing and Lighting Portfolio.....................         60,000,000
  Distance Measuring Equipment [DME], Very High                5,000,000
   Frequency [VHF] Omni-Directional Range [VOR],
   Tactical Air Navigation [TACAN] [DVT] Sustainment
   Portfolio.........................................
                                                      ------------------
    Subtotal Landing and Navigational Aids Programs..        166,100,000
e. Other ATC Facilities Programs
  Fuel Storage Tank Replacement and Management.......          5,000,000
  Unstaffed Infrastructure Sustainment...............         39,000,000
  Aircraft Replacement and Related Equipment Program.         62,000,000
  Airport Cable Loop Systems--Sustained Support......         10,000,000
  Alaskan Satellite Telecommunications Infrastructure            750,000
   [ASTI]............................................
  Real Property Disposition..........................          6,000,000

[[Page S1869]]

 
  Electrical Power Systems--Sustain/Support..........         99,300,000
  Energy Management and Compliance [EMC].............          5,355,000
  Child Care Center Sustainment......................          1,600,000
  FAA Telecommunications Infrastructure..............        322,250,000
  Operational Analysis and Reporting Systems.........          3,000,000
                                                      ------------------
    Subtotal Other ATC Facilities Programs...........        554,255,000
                                                      ------------------
        Total Activity 2.............................      1,957,632,630
Activity 3--Non-Air Traffic Control Facilities and
 Equipment:
a. Support Equipment
  Hazardous Materials Management.....................         20,000,000
  Aviation Safety Analysis System [ASAS].............         28,000,000
  NAS Recovery Communications [RCOM].................         12,000,000
  Facility Security Risk Management..................         18,000,000
  Information Security...............................         32,000,000
  System Approach for Safety Oversight [SASO]........         21,000,000
  NextGen System Safety Management Portfolio.........          6,000,000
  National Test Equipment Program....................          3,000,000
  Mobile Assets Management Program...................          2,400,000
  Configuration, Logistics, and Maintenance Resource          26,800,000
   Solutions [CLMRS].................................
  Tower Simulation Systems [TSS]/Tower Training                6,000,000
   Stimulator [TTS]..................................
                                                      ------------------
    Subtotal Support Equipment.......................        175,200,000
b. Training, Equipment and Facilities
  Aeronautical Center Infrastructure Sustainment.....         39,000,000
  Distance Learning..................................          1,000,000
                                                      ------------------
    Subtotal Training, Equipment and Facilities......         40,000,000
                                                      ------------------
        Total Activity 3.............................        215,200,000
Activity 4--Facilities and Equipment Mission Support:
  System Engineering and Development Support.........         36,500,000
  Program Support Leases.............................         45,000,000
  Logistics and Acquisition Support Services.........         12,000,000
  Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center Leases...........         16,400,000
  Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center Vertiport                  6,000,000
   Construction......................................
  Transition Engineering Support.....................         17,000,000
  Technical Support Services Contract [TSSC].........         28,000,000
  Resource Tracking Program [RTP]....................          9,000,000
  Center for Advanced Aviation System Development             55,000,000
   [CAASD]...........................................
  Aeronautical Information Management Program........         29,350,000
                                                      ------------------
    Total Activity 4.................................        254,250,000
Activity 5--Personnel and Related Expenses:
  Personnel and Related Expenses.....................        634,739,370
                                                      ------------------
        Total, All Activities........................      3,191,250,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Aeronautical center infrastructure sustainment.--The 
     agreement provides $19,000,000 above the budget request for 
     this budget line item for air traffic and technical 
     operations training laboratory enhancements, including an 
     additional en route automation modernization lab and a 
     complementary technical operations laboratory. These 
     enhancements will increase throughput for air traffic control 
     trainees at the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center [the 
     Center] and allow the FAA to hire more than the current 
     maximum of 1,800 trainees per year.
       Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center vertiport construction.--
     The agreement provides $6,000,000 to establish an electric 
     vertical take-off and landing [eVTOL] vertiport at the 
     Center. These enhancements are in lieu of amounts provided in 
     House Report 118-154 to establish up to four vertiports.
       Notice to air missions [NOTAM] system.--The agreement 
     provides $29,350,000 for the aeronautical information 
     management program, which includes NOTAM sustainment, 
     enhancements, and modernization in support of the NOTAM 
     Improvement Act of 2023 (49 U.S.C. 40101 note). The agreement 
     also directs the FAA to complete implementation of a single 
     NOTAM system as soon as possible and take the necessary steps 
     to implement phase 2 prior to 2027.
       High growth, multiuse airports.--The agreement modifies the 
     directive in House Report 118-154 to also direct the FAA to 
     prioritize for expedited review and approval applications for 
     new air traffic control towers where a mobile air traffic 
     control tower currently exists.
       Airport ground surveillance portfolio.--The agreement 
     directs the FAA to provide the briefing required by Senate 
     Report 118-70 under this heading and amends the directive 
     under the same header in House Report 118-154 to instead 
     provide a briefing. The agreement also provides an increase 
     of $15,000,000 above the request. Of this increase, 
     $10,000,000 shall be to deploy the display of airport surface 
     traffic to air traffic controllers in towers at airports that 
     do not currently have a surface surveillance system. The 
     program will identify commercially available solutions to be 
     placed on a qualified product list. This increase also 
     includes $5,000,000 to accelerate the deployment of runway 
     incursion devices that provide a visual and aural alert to 
     controllers when a runway is not available for departing or 
     landing aircraft.
       Major capital programs.--The agreement directs the FAA to 
     notify the House and Senate Committees on Appropriations 
     within 30 business days of the Joint Resources Council 
     establishing a baseline for previously approved projects or 
     making acquisition program baseline changes that alter 
     program performance, cost, or schedule baseline.


                 research, engineering, and development

                    (airport and airway trust fund)

       The agreement provides $280,000,000 for the FAA's research, 
     engineering, and development activities, to remain available 
     until September 30, 2026.
       The following table provides amounts for budget line items 
     under this heading:

 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
         Research, Engineering & Development               Agreement
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fire Research and Safety.............................         $7,136,000
Propulsion and Fuel Systems..........................          4,000,000
Advanced Materials/Structural Safety.................         14,720,000
Aircraft Icing.......................................          2,472,000
Digital System Safety................................          3,689,000
Continued Air Worthiness.............................          8,425,000
Flight deck/Maintenance/System Integration Human              14,301,000
 Factors.............................................
System Safety Management/Terminal Area Safety........          9,252,000
Air Traffic Control/Technical Operations Human                 5,911,000
 Factors.............................................
Aeromedical Research.................................         10,000,000
Weather Program......................................         14,786,000
Unmanned Aircraft Systems [UAS] Research.............         31,128,000
Alternative Fuels for General Aviation...............         11,201,000
Commercial Space Transportation Safety...............          2,000,000
NextGen Wake Turbulence..............................          3,728,000
Information/Cyber Security...........................          5,707,000
Environment & Energy.................................         21,000,000
NextGen--Environmental Research--Aircraft                     68,000,000
 Technologies and Fuels..............................
System Planning and Resource Management..............          5,097,000
Aviation Grant Management and Sec. 625 Workforce              20,000,000
 Development.........................................
Women in Aviation and Pilot Shortage Study...........          5,000,000
William J. Hughes Technical Center Laboratory                  5,447,000
 Facilities..........................................
Aviation Accessibility Research......................          2,000,000
Aircraft Radio Altimeter Development, Testing, and             5,000,000
 Certification.......................................
    Total............................................        280,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       UAS research.--The agreement provides $10,000,000 to 
     support counter-UAS research, development, testing and 
     evaluation, consistent with direction in House Report 118-
     154, with the exception of the direction to establish a 
     ``program'' to carry out these activities.
       Radio altimeters.--The agreement includes $5,000,000 to 
     accelerate testing, certification, and implementation of 
     radio altimeter capabilities, consistent with House Report 
     118-154, with the exception of the direction to establish a 
     ``program'' to advance these efforts.
       Aviation workforce development.--The agreement includes 
     $20,000,000 for aviation workforce development programs, as 
     directed by Senate Report 118-70.
       Workforce report.--The agreement directs the Secretary to 
     submit a report to the House and Senate Committees on 
     Appropriations on whether, and the degree to which, the FAA's 
     workforce development programs authorized in section 625 of 
     the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (Public Law 115-254) 
     have: (1) helped to expand the pool of prospective personnel 
     to the industry; (2) strengthened aviation programs at 
     minority serving institutions, public institutions of higher 
     education, women-focused institutions, and public 
     postsecondary vocational institutions; and (3) encouraged the 
     participation of populations that are underrepresented in the 
     aviation workforce, including women, minorities, and 
     individuals in economically disadvantaged geographic areas 
     and rural communities. The report shall also provide 
     recommendations on how the section 625 grant programs can be 
     used to address these issues.


                       grants-in-aid for airports

                (liquidation of contract authorization)

                      (limitation on obligations)

                    (airport and airway trust fund)

                     (including transfer of funds)

       The agreement provides an obligation limitation of 
     $3,350,000,000 and a liquidating cash appropriation of 
     $3,350,000,000, to remain available until expended. Within 
     the obligation limitation, the agreement provides not less 
     than $152,148,000 for administrative expenses, $15,000,000 
     for the airport cooperative research program, $41,801,000 for 
     airport technology research, and $10,000,000 for the small 
     community air service development program.
       Zero-emission vehicle [ZEV] and voluntary airport low 
     emissions [VALE] programs.--The agreement directs the FAA to 
     provide not less than $25,000,000 for ZEV and VALE eligible 
     projects at any commercial service airport, using funds under 
     this heading, instead of direction in Senate Report 118-70 to 
     use general funds for this purpose. The agreement directs the 
     FAA to actively engage with airport sponsors at major hubs to 
     identify projects suitable for the VALE program, such as 
     energy efficiency, energy resiliency, and renewable energy 
     projects that would help prevent power disruptions or 
     outages. Further, the agreement includes no less than 
     $5,000,000 for eligible hydrogen and fuel cell-related 
     activities through the ZEV and VALE programs.
       Airport environmental mitigation.--The agreement provides 
     no less than $5,000,000 to: (1) fund demonstration projects 
     for airports to collect and remove uncontained contaminants 
     caused by aqueous film forming foam [AFFF] and other 
     polyflourinated substances [PFAS] waste resulting solely from 
     aviation operations, and (2) to field test and measure lab-
     proven, innovative destruction technologies, including 
     Resource Conservation and Recovery Act-permitted incineration 
     in order to measurably reduce and mitigate the aviation 
     impacts of PFAS and AFFF substances on surface and 
     groundwater quality at the airport or within five miles of 
     the airport.


                       grants-in-aid for airports

       The agreement provides $532,392,074 in new budget authority 
     for additional discretionary grants for airport construction 
     projects, of which $482,392,074 is for the purposes and 
     amounts specified in the table entitled ``Community Project 
     Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending'' included in this 
     joint explanatory statement. Funding allocated for Community 
     Project Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending shall not 
     diminish or prejudice the application of a specific airport 
     or geographic region to receive other airport improvement 
     program [AIP] discretionary grants or multi-year letters of 
     intent.


       administrative provisions--federal aviation administration

                        (including rescissions)

       Section 110 allows no more than 600 technical staff-years 
     at the center for advanced aviation systems development.
       Section 111 prohibits funds for adopting guidelines or 
     regulations requiring airport sponsors to provide FAA 
     ``without cost'' building construction or space.

[[Page S1870]]

       Section 112 allows reimbursement for fees collected and 
     credited under 49 U.S.C. 45303.
       Section 113 allows reimbursement of funds for providing 
     technical assistance to foreign aviation authorities to be 
     credited to the operations account.
       Section 114 prohibits funds for Sunday premium pay unless 
     work was actually performed on a Sunday.
       Section 115 prohibits funds from being used to buy store 
     gift cards with government-issued credit cards.
       Section 116 requires the Administrator to block the 
     identifying information of an owner or operator's aircraft in 
     any flight tracking display to the public upon the request of 
     an owner or operator.
       Section 117 prohibits funds for salaries and expenses of 
     more than nine political and Presidential appointees in the 
     FAA.
       Section 118 prohibits funds to increase fees under 49 
     U.S.C. 44721 until the FAA provides a report to the House and 
     Senate Committees on Appropriations that justifies all fees 
     related to aeronautical navigation products and explains how 
     such fees are consistent with executive order no. 13642.
       Section 119 requires the FAA to notify the House and Senate 
     Committees on Appropriations at least 90 days before closing 
     a regional operations center or reducing the services 
     provided.
       Section 119A prohibits funds from being used to change 
     weight restrictions or prior permission rules at Teterboro 
     Airport in New Jersey.
       Section 119B prohibits funds from being used to withhold 
     from consideration and approval of certain applications for 
     participation in the contract tower program, or for certain 
     reevaluations of cost-share program participation.
       Section 119C prohibits funds from being used to open, 
     close, redesignate, or reorganize a regional office, the 
     aeronautical center, or the technical center subject to the 
     normal reprogramming requirements outlined under section 405 
     of this act.
       Section 119D improves the efficiency of the FAA franchise 
     fund.
       Section 119E provides restrictions on the use of the 
     authorities under 49 U.S.C. 44502(e) to transfer certain air 
     traffic systems or equipment to the FAA.
       Section 119F allows the transfer of funds from the 
     ``Grants-in-Aid for Airports'' account to reimburse airports 
     affected by temporary flight restrictions for residences of 
     the president.
       Section 119G rescinds certain unobligated funds.
       Section 119H prohibits the FAA from allowing the assignment 
     of individuals from private sector organizations to serve in 
     the FAA on a temporary basis.

                     Federal Highway Administration


                 limitation on administrative expenses

                          (highway trust fund)

                     (including transfer of funds)

       The agreement limits obligations for the administrative 
     expenses of the FHWA to $486,799,671, of which $3,248,000 is 
     for the administrative expenses of the Appalachian Regional 
     Commission.


                          federal-aid highways

                      (limitation on obligations)

                          (highway trust fund)

       The agreement limits obligations for the Federal-aid 
     highways program to $60,095,782,888 in fiscal year 2024.
       Truck size and weight research.--The agreement directs the 
     FHWA to brief the House and Senate Committees on 
     Appropriations within 60 days of enactment of this act on the 
     status of the implementation plan for the research outlined 
     in the Transportation Research Board's truck size and weight 
     research plan, including any reasons for delay of delivery of 
     such plan, and proposals for progress on delivery of such 
     plan.
       Federal-aid highway apportionments.--The agreement does not 
     include the directive to the GAO to conduct the study 
     included under this heading in Senate Report 118-70.
       Unobligated balances.--The agreement directs the FHWA to 
     submit a list of all unobligated balances of contract 
     authority and budget authority as of September 30, 2023, to 
     the House and Senate Committees on Appropriations by March 
     31, 2024, and provide an annual update with each year's 
     President's budget request. The list of unobligated balances 
     shall include the account name, program name, Treasury 
     account symbol, amounts available, date of most recent 
     obligation, and any other information that will help the 
     Committees determine the status of all unobligated balances. 
     Upon submitting the initial list on March 31, 2024, the FHWA 
     shall solicit feedback from State DOTs to identify any 
     amounts allocated to a specific State that the State DOT does 
     not intend to obligate. The FHWA shall submit a list of such 
     amounts to the House and Senate Committees on Appropriations 
     by October 1, 2024, including a list of State DOTs that did 
     not provide feedback in a reasonable amount of time.
       Evacuation route planning.--The Secretary of 
     Transportation, in consultation with the Administrator of the 
     Federal Emergency Management Agency, shall develop and 
     publish guidelines and best practices for States, Indian 
     Tribes, and units of local government to use when conducting 
     local emergency evacuation route planning, including routing 
     of emergency response supplies, equipment, and workers, as 
     part of natural disaster preparedness efforts.


                (LIQUIDATION OF CONTRACT AUTHORIZATION)

                          (HIGHWAY TRUST FUND)

       The agreement provides a liquidating cash appropriation of 
     $60,834,782,888, which is available until expended, to pay 
     the outstanding obligations of the various highway programs 
     at the levels provided in this act and prior appropriations 
     acts.


                    HIGHWAY INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAMS

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The agreement provides $2,224,676,687 from the general 
     fund. Of the total amount, the agreement provides 
     $1,884,176,687 for the purposes and amounts specified in the 
     table entitled ``Community Project Funding/Congressionally 
     Directed Spending'' included in this joint explanatory 
     statement; $100,000,000 for the Appalachian development 
     highway system; $150,000,000 for the Tribal transportation 
     program; $5,000,000 to be transferred to the Northern Border 
     Regional Commission; $18,000,000 to be transferred to the 
     Denali Commission; $10,000,000 for the regional 
     infrastructure accelerator demonstration program; $7,500,000 
     for the national scenic byways program; and $50,000,000 for a 
     competitive bridge bundling grant program. An additional 
     $200,000,000 is provided for this bridge program in section 
     126 from repurposed unobligated balances of TIFIA contract 
     authority.
       Regional infrastructure accelerator [RIA] demonstration 
     program.--The agreement directs the Department to select at 
     least one accelerator for the RIA demonstration program that 
     serves a multi-State region and that supports at least one 
     project focused on public and private clean energy 
     investments in the nation's intermodal freight and logistics 
     networks, including efforts to reduce air emissions from 
     commercial vehicles that access ports and long haul 
     commercial vehicles.


       ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS--FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION

                        (INCLUDING RESCISSIONS)

       Section 120 distributes the Federal-aid highways program 
     obligation limitation.
       Section 121 allows funds received by the Bureau of 
     Transportation Statistics from the sale of data products to 
     be credited to the Federal-aid highways account.
       Section 122 provides requirements for any waiver of Buy 
     America Act requirements.
       Section 123 requires 60-day notification to the House and 
     Senate Committees on Appropriations for any grants awarded 
     under 23 U.S.C. 117.
       Section 124 allows State DOTs to repurpose certain highway 
     project funding within 25 miles of its original designation.
       Section 125 rescinds certain unobligated funds.
       Section 126 repurposes unobligated funds for a new 
     activity.

              Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration


              MOTOR CARRIER SAFETY OPERATIONS AND PROGRAMS

                (LIQUIDATION OF CONTRACT AUTHORIZATION)

                      (LIMITATION ON OBLIGATIONS)

                          (HIGHWAY TRUST FUND)

       The agreement includes a liquidating cash appropriation of 
     $346,000,000 and a limitation on obligations of $411,000,000 
     for the operations and programs of the Federal Motor Carrier 
     Safety Administration [FMCSA]. Of this limitation, 
     $14,073,000 is for the research and technology program, and 
     not less than $99,098,000 is for information technology and 
     information management, to remain available for obligation 
     until September 30, 2026.


                      MOTOR CARRIER SAFETY GRANTS

                (LIQUIDATION OF CONTRACT AUTHORIZATION)

                      (LIMITATION ON OBLIGATIONS)

                          (HIGHWAY TRUST FUND)

       The agreement includes a liquidating cash appropriation and 
     a limitation on obligations of $516,300,000 for motor carrier 
     safety grants. The following table provides funding levels 
     for activities within this account:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Motor carrier safety assistance program........             $406,500,000
Commercial driver's license program                           43,500,000
 implementation program........................
High priority program..........................               60,000,000
Commercial motor vehicle operators grant                       1,300,000
 program.......................................
Commercial motor vehicle enforcement training                  5,000,000
 and support grant program.....................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

 ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS--FEDERAL MOTOR CARRIER SAFETY ADMINISTRATION

       Section 130 requires the FMCSA to send notice of 49 CFR 
     section 385.308 violations by certified mail, registered 
     mail, or some other manner of delivery which records receipt 
     of the notice by the persons responsible for the violations.
       Section 131 prohibits funds from being used to enforce the 
     electronic logging device rule with respect to carriers 
     transporting livestock or insects.

             National Highway Traffic Safety Administration


                        OPERATIONS AND RESEARCH

       The agreement provides $223,000,000 from the general fund 
     for operations and research for the National Highway Traffic 
     Safety Administration [NHTSA], to remain available through 
     September 30, 2025. The agreement does not specify an amount 
     for the new car assessment program or for crashworthiness.
       Automatic emergency braking [AEB].--The agreement directs 
     NHTSA to brief the House and Senate Committees on 
     Appropriations within 30 days of enactment of this act on

[[Page S1871]]

     the extent to which the AEB rulemaking will reduce pedestrian 
     fatalities occurring at night and involving vehicles 
     traveling faster than 37 miles per hour. The briefing shall 
     include a timeline for finalizing the AEB rulemaking, and 
     other driver assistance system regulations intended to reduce 
     pedestrian fatalities and injuries.
       New car assessment program.--The agreement includes the 
     directives under this heading in House Report 118-154 and 
     Senate Report 118-70, except that the final roadmap required 
     by the Senate Report shall be required by April 30, 2024.
       Virtual modeling and simulation.--The agreement directs 
     $4,000,000 to support the virtual review, assessment, and 
     validation of automated vehicles.
       Automated vehicles.--The agreement includes the directives 
     under this heading in House Report 118-154 and Senate Report 
     118-70, except that the briefing required in the Senate 
     Report shall be provided by April 30, 2024.


                        OPERATIONS AND RESEARCH

                (LIQUIDATION OF CONTRACT AUTHORIZATION)

                      (LIMITATION ON OBLIGATIONS)

                          (HIGHWAY TRUST FUND)

       The agreement provides a liquidating cash appropriation and 
     an obligation limitation of $201,200,000, to remain available 
     until expended, which reflects the authorized level of 
     contract authority, and of which $57,500,000 shall remain 
     available until September 30, 2025. Of the total amount, the 
     agreement provides $194,000,000 for programs authorized under 
     section 403 of title 23, U.S.C., including behavioral 
     research on automated driving systems and advanced driver 
     assistance systems and improving consumer responses to safety 
     recalls, and section 25024 of Public Law 117-58. The 
     agreement does not include funding and direction included 
     under the last heading under this account in House Report 
     118-154.
       Telematics research.--The agreement directs NHTSA to 
     research the potential public health and safety impacts of 
     telematics technologies to prevent distracted driving. The 
     research shall focus on applications of telematics data for 
     understanding the association between a range of driver 
     behaviors and crash risk and building prevention strategies 
     based on evidence. NHTSA is directed to report to the House 
     and Senate Committees on Appropriations within 270 days of 
     enactment of this act on the potential of telematics 
     technologies, including any testing, development, and 
     deployment strategies for the technology, as well as any 
     considerations that can be made for protecting privacy, 
     deployment of an opt-in framework, and data anonymization. 
     The agreement directs NHTSA to use up to $2,500,000 from the 
     amounts made available under the heading ``Vehicle Safety and 
     Behavioral Research Programs'' in title VIII of division J of 
     the IIJA for these activities.


                     HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY GRANTS

                (LIQUIDATION OF CONTRACT AUTHORIZATION)

                      (LIMITATION ON OBLIGATIONS)

                          (HIGHWAY TRUST FUND)

       The agreement provides a liquidating cash appropriation and 
     an obligation limitation of $813,300,800 for highway traffic 
     safety grants, to remain available until expended.


      ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS--NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY 
                             ADMINISTRATION

       Section 140 exempts obligation authority made available in 
     previous public laws from the obligation limitations set for 
     the current year.
       Section 141 provides funding for travel and related 
     expenses for State management reviews and highway safety core 
     competency development training.

                    Federal Railroad Administration


                         SAFETY AND OPERATIONS

       The agreement provides $267,799,000 for the safety and 
     operations of the Federal Railroad Administration [FRA], of 
     which $25,000,000 shall remain available until expended. The 
     agreement supports the funding directives for personnel as 
     identified in Senate Report 118-70 and provides the following 
     funding levels for specific activities within this account:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Automated track inspection program.............             No less than
                                                             $18,000,000
Positive train control support program.........          Up to 1,000,000
Trespasser prevention..........................          Up to 3,000,000
Highway-rail grade crossing safety.............          Up to 3,250,000
Confidential close call reporting system.......          Up to 4,500,000
Grant and project development technical                    Up to 500,000
 assistance, oversight.........................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Intercity passenger rail competition.--The agreement 
     modifies the direction under this heading in House Report 
     118-154 to allow for competitive bidding procedures at the 
     option of eligible applicants.
       Automated track inspection technologies.--Instead of the 
     direction under this heading in House Report 118-154, the 
     agreement directs the Department to continue to evaluate the 
     performance of automated track inspection technology as 
     directed in fiscal year 2023 and reminds the Department of 
     its outstanding reporting requirement from Public Law 117-
     328.
       Blocked crossings.--The agreement directs the FRA to 
     continue to use the information gathered through the FRA's 
     website on blocked railroad crossings in order to identify 
     the root causes of blocked crossing incidents and identify 
     meaningful solutions to prevent future occurrences. In doing 
     so, the agreement encourages the FRA to continue working with 
     all stakeholders, including communities, State and local 
     agencies, law enforcement, freight railroads, and others. 
     Further, the agreement directs the FRA to incorporate 
     information collected by the FRA from both the freight 
     railroads and the FRA's website on blocked railroad crossings 
     into the national highway-rail crossing inventory, to the 
     extent permissible under current law.


                   RAILROAD RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

       The agreement provides $54,000,000 for railroad research 
     and development, to remain available until expended. Of this 
     amount, up to $3,000,000 is available to make improvements at 
     the transportation technology center as authorized under 49 
     U.S.C. 20108(d).
       Rolling stock equipment and components [RSEC] maintenance 
     and inspection.--The agreement includes no less than 
     $5,000,000 to support RSEC research to evaluate, test, and 
     demonstrate the effectiveness and efficiency of automated 
     inspection and maintenance equipment and procedures in order 
     to maximize gains in rail safety. This research shall include 
     the evaluation of existing wayside automated inspection/
     defect detector technologies in order to assess manufacturer 
     performance, recommended practices, industry-developed 
     voluntary consensus technical standards, and railroad safety 
     data. The agreement expects this research and the subsequent 
     safety standards to reduce the likelihood of derailments from 
     equipment failures and foster the development of wayside and 
     onboard technologies that can provide continuous train 
     component health monitoring.
       Alternative fuel locomotives.--The agreement provides not 
     less than $2,500,000 to further the research, development, 
     testing, and demonstration of innovative technologies and 
     solutions for low or no-emission alternative fuels for 
     locomotives, engine improvements, and motive power 
     technologies. The agreement directs the FRA to coordinate 
     such activities with the Department of Energy and the private 
     sector in order to achieve commercial use sooner.
       Short-line safety.--The agreement continues $2,500,000 for 
     improving safety practices and training for class II and 
     class III freight railroads, including efforts to improve the 
     safe transportation of hazardous materials, freight, and 
     passenger rail. The agreement also includes an additional 
     $2,500,000 to acquire, modify, and renovate rail cars in 
     order to conduct hazardous materials emergency response 
     training.
       Workforce development.--The agreement supports workforce 
     development programs that improve railroad industry employee 
     training, recruitment, and retention.


         FEDERAL-STATE PARTNERSHIP FOR INTERCITY PASSENGER RAIL

       The agreement provides $75,000,000 for Federal-state 
     partnership for intercity passenger rail grants as authorized 
     under 49 U.S.C. 24911, to remain available until expended.
       Regional rail planning.--The agreement directs the 
     Secretary to exercise the authorities under 49 U.S.C. 
     24911(k) to withhold up to five percent of the total amounts 
     made available to carry out planning and development 
     activities related to the corridor identification and 
     development program authorized under 49 U.S.C. 25101, 
     including planning for rail systems as defined under 49 
     U.S.C. 26106(b)(4).
       Northeast Corridor [NEC] project dashboard.--The agreement 
     directs the Northeast Corridor Commission to make publicly 
     available on the agency's website a dashboard for each NEC 
     project that receives funding under this heading that 
     summarizes key performance indicators and associated project 
     timelines. The dashboard for each project shall include the 
     amount of funding awarded, steps needed to complete the 
     project, estimated time left until completion of the project, 
     and the amount and status of matching contributions for the 
     project award. These dashboards should be used to support all 
     aspects of a project from planning through post construction 
     and can include both manual and automated systems.


        CONSOLIDATED RAIL INFRASTRUCTURE AND SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The agreement provides $198,957,997 for consolidated rail 
     infrastructure and safety improvements grants as authorized 
     under 49 U.S.C. 22907, to remain available until expended. Of 
     this amount, $98,957,997 is for the purposes and amounts 
     specified in the table entitled ``Community Project Funding/
     Congressionally Directed Spending'' included in this joint 
     explanatory statement.
       Further, the agreement directs that the specific funding 
     allocated in the table entitled ``Community Project Funding/
     Congressionally Directed Spending'' included in this joint 
     explanatory statement shall not diminish or prejudice any 
     application or geographic region to receive other 
     discretionary grants or loans.


          THE NATIONAL RAILROAD PASSENGER CORPORATION [AMTRAK]

       The agreement provides a total of $2,427,763,000 for 
     Amtrak.
       Station agents.--The agreement directs Amtrak to either 
     provide a station agent in each Amtrak station that had a 
     ticket agent position eliminated in fiscal year 2018 or, with 
     respect to any given station on that list, to instead reach 
     an agreement with the labor organization representing 
     employees at such station to provide a station agent in a 
     different station.

[[Page S1872]]

  



     NORTHEAST CORRIDOR GRANTS TO THE NATIONAL RAILROAD PASSENGER 
                              CORPORATION

       The agreement provides $1,141,442,000, to remain available 
     until expended, for the Secretary to make grants to Amtrak 
     for activities associated with the NEC.


 NATIONAL NETWORK GRANTS TO THE NATIONAL RAILROAD PASSENGER CORPORATION

       The agreement provides $1,286,321,000, to remain available 
     until expended, for the Secretary to make grants to Amtrak 
     for activities associated with the national network.
       Chicago Union Station modernization.--Chicago Union Station 
     [CUS] is the hub for national network trains. Serving 
     millions of long-distance, State-supported, and commuter 
     passengers, CUS connects multiple intercity passenger rail 
     services and transit authorities and is the busiest corridor 
     outside of the NEC. The agreement recognizes the 
     accessibility, safety, and capacity improvements necessary at 
     CUS and directs $40,000,000 for design, acquisition, and 
     construction activities to improve the concourse and related 
     infrastructure at CUS. Concourse and mezzanine improvements 
     will improve safety and accessibility, expand access, and 
     increase capacity. Project work may also include mail 
     platform construction, dynamic signage, widening grade 
     crossings and other passenger safety enhancements and 
     refinements. Amtrak is directed to report to the House and 
     Senate Committees on Appropriations within 30 days of 
     enactment of this act on the use or planned use of such 
     funding.


       ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS--FEDERAL RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION

                        (INCLUDING RESCISSIONS)

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       Section 150 allows the FRA to transfer certain amounts made 
     available in this and prior acts to the financial assistance 
     oversight and technical assistance account to support the 
     award, administration, project management oversight, and 
     technical assistance of grants administered by the FRA, with 
     an exception.
       Section 151 limits overtime to $35,000 per Amtrak employee, 
     allows Amtrak's president to waive this restriction for 
     specific employees for safety or operational efficiency 
     reasons, and requires Amtrak to submit a report on overtime 
     payments to the House and Senate Committees on 
     Appropriations.
       Section 152 prohibits the use of funds made available to 
     Amtrak to reduce the total number of Amtrak police department 
     uniformed officers patrolling on board passenger trains or at 
     stations, facilities or rights-of-way below the staffing 
     level on May 1, 2019.
       Section 153 prohibits the use of funds made available by 
     this act by Amtrak in contravention of the Worker Adjustment 
     and Retraining Notification Act.
       Section 154 rescinds certain unobligated balances.
       Section 155 expresses the sense of Congress that long-
     distance passenger rail routes and services should be 
     sustained to ensure connectivity throughout the national 
     network.

                     Federal Transit Administration


                         TRANSIT FORMULA GRANTS

                (LIQUIDATION OF CONTRACT AUTHORIZATION)

                      (LIMITATION ON OBLIGATIONS)

                          (HIGHWAY TRUST FUND)

       The agreement includes a liquidation of contract 
     authorization and a limitation on obligations from the mass 
     transit account for transit formula grants of 
     $13,990,000,000, as authorized by the IIJA.


                     TRANSIT INFRASTRUCTURE GRANTS

       The agreement provides an additional $252,386,844 in 
     transit infrastructure grants, to remain available until 
     expended. Of the funds provided, $20,000,000 is available for 
     ferry boats grants as authorized under 49 U.S.C. 5307(h), of 
     which no less than $5,000,000 is available only for low or 
     zero emission ferries or ferries using electric battery or 
     fuel cell components and the infrastructure to support such 
     ferries; $500,000 is available for technical assistance and 
     resources to Tribes through the national rural transportation 
     assistance program authorized under 49 U.S.C. 5311(b)(3)(C); 
     $1,500,000 is available for bus testing facilities as 
     authorized under 49 U.S.C. 5318; $206,817,976 is available 
     for the purposes and amounts specified in the table entitled 
     ``Community Project Funding/Congressionally Directed 
     Spending'' included in this joint explanatory statement; 
     $20,000,000 is available for ferry service for rural 
     communities as authorized under section 71103 of division G 
     of Public Law 117-58; and $3,568,868 is available for 
     technical assistance, research, demonstration, or deployment 
     activities or projects to accelerate the adoption of zero 
     emission buses in public transit as authorized under 49 
     U.S.C. 5312.
       The specific funding allocated in the table entitled 
     ``Community Project Funding/Congressionally Directed 
     Spending'' included in this joint explanatory statement shall 
     not diminish or prejudice the application of a specific 
     project or geographic region to receive other discretionary 
     grants or loans.


                   TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE AND TRAINING

       The agreement provides $7,500,000 for technical assistance 
     and training activities under 49 U.S.C. 5314, to remain 
     available until September 30, 2025. The funding provided 
     under this heading is supplemental to the funding provided 
     under the heading ``Transit Formula Grants'', as authorized 
     by the IIJA.
       Small-urban, rural, and Tribal transit providers.--The 
     agreement directs that not less than $1,500,000 shall be for 
     a cooperative agreement for a technical assistance center to 
     assist small- urban, rural, and Tribal public transit 
     recipients and planning organizations with applied innovation 
     and capacity building.
       Workforce development and standards-based training.--The 
     agreement directs that not less than $2,500,000 shall be for 
     a cooperative agreement consistent with the direction in 
     Senate Report 118-70.


                       CAPITAL INVESTMENT GRANTS

       The agreement provides $2,205,000,000 for fixed-guideway 
     projects, to remain available until expended.
       Of the funds provided in this act, $2,130,950,000 is 
     available for new starts projects, up to $52,000,000 is 
     available for the expedited project delivery pilot program, 
     and $22,050,000 is available for oversight activities 
     consistent with 49 U.S.C. 5338(c). The agreement adjusts the 
     set-asides of the amounts provided under this heading in 
     division J of the IIJA in order to ensure that, when combined 
     with amounts provided in this act and the amounts unallocated 
     from Public Law 117-103 and Public Law 117-328, the total 
     level of funding available will satisfy all projects that 
     currently have executed grant agreements with the FTA and 
     projects that met the requirements of 49 U.S.C. 5309 and are 
     anticipating grant agreements in fiscal year 2024.
       Capital investment grants [CIG] administration.--The 
     agreement directs the FTA to continue to update the House and 
     Senate Committees on Appropriations, monthly, on the status 
     of projects that are in the current CIG funding pipeline. 
     This update should include anticipated milestone schedules 
     for advancing projects, especially those within 2 years of a 
     proposed full funding grant agreement. It should also 
     highlight and explain any potential cost and schedule changes 
     affecting projects.


      GRANTS TO THE WASHINGTON METROPOLITAN AREA TRANSIT AUTHORITY

       The agreement provides $150,000,000 to carry out section 
     601 of division B of Public Law 110-432 and section 30019 of 
     the IIJA to remain available until expended.


       ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS--FEDERAL TRANSIT ADMINISTRATION

                         (INCLUDING RESCISSION)

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       Section 160 exempts previously made transit obligations 
     from limitations on obligations.
       Section 161 allows funds provided in this act that remain 
     unobligated by September 30, 2027, for fixed guideway capital 
     investment projects to be available for projects to use the 
     funds for the purposes for which they were originally 
     provided.
       Section 162 allows for the transfer of appropriations made 
     prior to October 1, 2023, from older accounts to be merged 
     into new accounts with similar current activities.
       Section 163 prohibits the use of funds to adjust 
     apportionments pursuant to 26 U.S.C. 9503(e)(4).
       Section 164 prohibits the use of funds to impede or hinder 
     project advancement or approval for any project seeking a 
     Federal contribution from the CIG program of greater than 40 
     percent of project costs.
       Section 165 rescinds certain amounts.

        Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation


                       OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE

                    (HARBOR MAINTENANCE TRUST FUND)

       The agreement provides $40,288,000 for the operations, 
     maintenance, and capital infrastructure activities of the 
     Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation 
     [GLS]. Of that amount, not less than $16,300,000 is provided 
     for the seaway infrastructure program. The agreement provides 
     $1,000,000 for trade and economic development activities at 
     the GLS, to be carried out in conjunction with system 
     stakeholders.

                        Maritime Administration


                       MARITIME SECURITY PROGRAM

                         (INCLUDING RESCISSION)

       The agreement provides $318,000,000 for the maritime 
     security program, to remain available until expended, and 
     rescinds $17,000,000 in unobligated amounts made available in 
     prior fiscal years.


                          CABLE SECURITY FLEET

       The agreement provides $10,000,000 for the cable security 
     fleet program, to remain available until expended.


                        TANKER SECURITY PROGRAM

                         (INCLUDING RESCISSION)

       The agreement provides $60,000,000 for the tanker security 
     fleet program, to remain available until expended, and 
     rescinds $21,000,000 in unobligated amounts made available in 
     prior fiscal years.


                        OPERATIONS AND TRAINING

       The agreement provides $267,775,000 for the Maritime 
     Administration's [MARAD] operations and training account. The 
     following table provides funding levels for activities within 
     this account:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
United States Merchant Marine Academy [USMMA] operations     $92,729,000
USMMA facilities maintenance and repair, and equipment..      22,000,000
USMMA capital improvement program.......................      70,000,000
Maritime environmental and technical assistance program.       7,500,000
United States marine highway program....................       5,000,000
MARAD headquarters operations...........................      70,546,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       National defense reserve fleet [NDRF] recapitalization.--
     The agreement provides funding in Section 171 for the 
     Secretary of Transportation to complete vessel designs for 
     the purpose of constructing 10 sealift vessels for the

[[Page S1873]]

     NDRF. MARAD shall assume the eventual construction of such 
     vessels will be through the use of a vessel construction 
     manager.
       USMMA capital improvements.--The agreement does not require 
     a comprehensive master plan as requested in House Report 118-
     154. The agreement reaffirms the requirement of the USMMA, 
     MARAD, and the Department to continue to provide quarterly 
     briefings to the House and Senate Committees on 
     Appropriations on the status of all short- and long-term 
     capital improvement plan [CIP] projects and provide an annual 
     report on all CIP projects in the same manner and context as 
     in previous fiscal years. The agreement directs the 
     Department to consider using design-build contracts in order 
     to expedite the renovation of academic facilities and related 
     pier infrastructure.
       USMMA student safety and support.--The agreement provides 
     $92,729,000 for the USMMA operations which includes the 
     adjustment to base and $1,500,000 for activities proposed in 
     the budget request for the implementation of the National 
     Academy of Public Administration [NAPA] study 
     recommendations.
       Sexual assault and sexual harassment at USMMA.--The 
     agreement reiterates the requirement in the fiscal year 2023 
     joint explanatory statement for the MARAD to report quarterly 
     in writing on the ways in which it is conducting outreach and 
     engagement in order to improve every mariner builds a 
     respectful culture [EMBARC] program carrier enrollment. This 
     requirement can also be satisfied in the quarterly USMMA CIP/
     maintenance and repair activities briefings to Congress.
       NAPA tracking.--The agreement acknowledges the Department's 
     submission of the initial report on the implementation of the 
     2021 NAPA USMMA recommendations, as required by Public Law 
     117-263, in September 2023. As a result, the briefing 
     requirement in Senate Report 118-70 under this heading is 
     modified to be provided to the appropriate congressional 
     committees upon submission of the next NAPA recommendation 
     implementation report.


                   STATE MARITIME ACADEMY OPERATIONS

       The agreement provides $125,788,000 for State maritime 
     academy [SMA] operations. The following table provides 
     funding levels for activities within this account:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Training ships..........................................     $22,000,000
National security multi-mission vessel program..........      86,588,000
Student incentive program...............................       2,400,000
Fuel assistance payments................................       8,800,000
Direct payments for SMAs................................       6,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       National security multi-mission vessel [NSMV] program.--The 
     agreement includes resources for steel cost increases, SMA 
     shore-side infrastructure improvements to support the 
     berthing and operation of the NSMVs, and the budget request 
     for operations and integration, as well as shore spares to 
     support the vessel class. The agreement reaffirms that all 
     NSMV program requirements included under this heading in 
     Senate Report 118-70 apply to these funds.


                     ASSISTANCE TO SMALL SHIPYARDS

       The agreement provides $8,750,000 for the small shipyard 
     grant program, to remain available until expended.


                             SHIP DISPOSAL

                         (INCLUDING RESCISSION)

       The agreement provides $6,000,000 for the ship disposal 
     program, to remain available until expended, and rescinds 
     $3,664,000 in unobligated amounts made available in prior 
     fiscal years.


          MARITIME GUARANTEED LOAN (TITLE XI) PROGRAM ACCOUNT

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       The agreement provides $3,000,000 for the administrative 
     expenses of the Title XI program and directs that these funds 
     be transferred to the MARAD's operations and training 
     account. The agreement also provides $50,586,000 for loan 
     subsidy, to remain available until expended.


                PORT INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

       The agreement provides $120,460,124 for the port 
     infrastructure development program, to remain available until 
     expended. Of the total amount, the agreement provides 
     $70,460,124 for the purposes and amounts specified in the 
     table entitled ``Community Project Funding/ Congressionally 
     Directed Spending'' included in this joint explanatory 
     statement.


           ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS--MARITIME ADMINISTRATION

       Section 170 authorizes the MARAD to furnish utilities and 
     services and to make necessary repairs in connection with any 
     lease, contract, or occupancy involving government property 
     under control of the MARAD and allows payments received to be 
     credited to the Treasury and to remain available until 
     expended.
       Section 171 provides $12,000,000 for the Secretary of 
     Transportation to complete vessel designs for the purpose of 
     constructing 10 sealift vessels for the NDRF.

         Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration


                          OPERATIONAL EXPENSES

       The agreement provides $31,681,000 for the necessary 
     operational expenses of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials 
     Safety Administration [PHMSA], of which $4,500,000 shall 
     remain available until September 30, 2026.


                       HAZARDOUS MATERIALS SAFETY

       The agreement provides $74,556,000 for the PHMSA's 
     hazardous materials safety functions, of which $12,070,000 
     shall remain available until September 30, 2026.
       The agreement specifies that $1,000,000 shall be for 
     community safety grants as authorized by 49 U.S.C. 5107(i), 
     and up to $2,500,000 shall be for the State hazardous 
     materials safety inspection program. The funding level 
     provides no less than $5,070,000 for the PHMSA's hazardous 
     materials research and development program, including for 
     research activities related to the development of stronger, 
     safer tank cars and valves for tank cars, and other safety 
     features.


                            PIPELINE SAFETY

                         (PIPELINE SAFETY FUND)

                    (OIL SPILL LIABILITY TRUST FUND)

       The agreement provides $218,186,000 for the PHMSA's 
     pipeline safety program, to remain available until September 
     30, 2026. Of that amount, $30,000,000 is derived from the oil 
     spill liability trust fund, $180,786,000 is derived from the 
     pipeline safety fund, $400,000 is derived from fees collected 
     under 49 U.S.C. 60303 and deposited in the liquefied natural 
     gas siting account, and $7,000,000 is derived from fees 
     collected under 49 U.S.C. 60302 and deposited in the 
     underground natural gas storage facility safety account.
       The agreement provides the following levels for specific 
     activities within this account:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Research and development................................     $12,500,000
Grants..................................................           up to
                                                              89,558,000
Operations..............................................   not less than
                                                              92,165,000
Programs................................................   not less than
                                                              23,963,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Pipeline leak prevention technology.--The agreement 
     includes $1,000,000 of the amounts provided for research and 
     development for a pilot program to test and validate existing 
     pipeline leak prevention and mitigation technologies, 
     including technologies that can be installed around existing 
     oil, gas, carbon dioxide, and hazardous liquid pipes or 
     installed with new pipelines to help protect high consequence 
     areas and unusually sensitive areas. The agreement directs 
     the PHMSA to provide a status of the pilot program to the 
     House and Senate Committees on Appropriations within 180 days 
     of enactment of this act.
       Staffing and hiring plans.--The agreement provides not less 
     than $92,165,000 for operations, including salaries and 
     benefits, and for authorized activities. The agreement 
     includes the reporting requirement included under this 
     paragraph heading in House Report 118-154.


                     EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS GRANTS

                      (LIMITATION ON OBLIGATIONS)

                     (EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS FUND)

       The agreement provides an obligation limitation of 
     $46,825,000 for emergency preparedness grants, to remain 
     available until September 30, 2026.
       The agreement directs the PHMSA to utilize carryover from 
     accumulated prior year balances. The agreement encourages the 
     PHMSA to ensure that small businesses are not 
     disproportionately affected by any reasonable, limited fee 
     changes.

                      Office of Inspector General


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement provides $116,452,000 for the salaries and 
     expenses of the Office of Inspector General.

            General Provisions--Department of Transportation

       Section 180 provides authorization for the DOT to maintain 
     and operate aircraft, hire passenger motor vehicles and 
     aircraft, purchase liability insurance, pay for uniforms, and 
     purchase and operate unmanned aircraft systems.
       Section 181 limits appropriations for services authorized 
     by 5 U.S.C. 3109 up to the rate permitted for an executive 
     level IV.
       Section 182 prohibits recipients of funds in this act from 
     disseminating personal information obtained by State 
     departments of motor vehicles in connection to motor vehicle 
     records with an exception.
       Section 183 prohibits funds in this act for salaries and 
     expenses of more than 125 political and presidential 
     appointees in the DOT.
       Section 184 stipulates that revenue collected by the FHWA 
     and the FRA from States, counties, municipalities, other 
     public authorities, and private sources for training may be 
     credited to specific accounts within the agencies, with an 
     exception for State rail safety inspectors participating in 
     training.
       Section 185 prohibits the DOT from using funds to make a 
     loan, loan guarantee, line of credit, letter of intent, 
     federally funded cooperative agreement, full funding grant 
     agreement, or discretionary grant unless the DOT gives a 3-
     day advance notice to the House and Senate Committees on 
     Appropriations. The provision requires the DOT to provide a 
     comprehensive list of all such loans, loan guarantees, lines 
     of credit, letters of intent, federally funded cooperative 
     agreements, full funding grant agreements, and discretionary 
     grants that will be announced with a 3-day advance notice to 
     the House and Senate Committees on Appropriations. The 
     provision also requires concurrent notice of any ``quick 
     release'' of funds from the FHWA's emergency relief program 
     and prohibits notifications from involving funds not 
     available for obligation.

[[Page S1874]]

       Section 186 allows funds received from rebates, refunds, 
     and similar sources to be credited to appropriations of the 
     DOT.
       Section 187 requires reprogramming actions to be approved 
     or denied by the House and Senate Committees on 
     Appropriations, and reprogramming notifications shall be 
     transmitted solely to the Appropriations Committees.
       Section 188 allows funds appropriated to operating 
     administrations to be obligated for the Office of the 
     Secretary for costs related to assessments only when such 
     funds provide a direct benefit to the operating 
     administrations.
       Section 189 authorizes the Secretary to carry out a program 
     that establishes uniform standards for developing and 
     supporting agency transit pass and transit benefits, 
     including distribution of transit benefits.
       Section 190 allows the use of funds to assist a contract 
     utilizing geographic, economic, or other hiring preference 
     not otherwise authorized by law, only if certain requirements 
     are met related to availability of local labor, displacement 
     of existing employees, and delays in transportation plans.
       Section 191 directs the Secretary of Transportation to work 
     with the Secretary of Homeland Security to ensure that best 
     practices for industrial control systems procurement are up 
     to date and that systems procured with funds provided under 
     this title were procured using such practices.
       Section 192 prohibits funds from being used in 
     contravention of the American Security Drone Act of 2023.

                                TITLE II

              DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT

                     Management and Administration

       Reorganizations and staffing realignments.--The agreement 
     approves the following proposed reorganizations described in 
     the fiscal year 2024 congressional budget justification and 
     subsequent information provided by the Department: the Office 
     of the Chief Information Officer; the Office of Departmental 
     Equal Employment Opportunity [ODEEO]; the Office of Chief 
     Financial Officer [OCFO]; the Office of the General Counsel; 
     and the Office of Housing, except for the proposals described 
     in the congressional budget justification on page 46-5 under 
     Office of Multifamily Housing, only the Asset Management and 
     Portfolio Oversight proposal is approved. The agreement does 
     not provide resources for additional personnel positions 
     requested for the ODEEO or OCFO Office of Strategic Planning 
     and Customer Experience reorganizations and directs those 
     offices to manage within current levels. The agreement 
     directs that as part of the Assistant CFO for Financial 
     Management reorganization within the OCFO, the Department 
     ensure office names are consistent with their purpose and 
     function. The agreement does not approve the proposed 
     realignment of the Office of Gender-Based Violence 
     Prevention, the creation of the Office of Fair Lending, or 
     the proposed creation of the Office of the National Fair 
     Housing Training Academy, but other proposed reorganizations 
     described on page 48-9 of the congressional budget 
     justification are approved. The agreement also does not 
     approve the creation of a separate Office of Resident 
     Services within the Office of Public and Indian Housing; the 
     proposed reorganization of the Office of Special Needs 
     Assistance Programs [SNAPS] within the Office of Community 
     Planning and Development; or the consolidation of the Office 
     of Administration, the Office of the Chief Human Capital 
     Officer, and the Office of the Chief Procurement Officer into 
     a single funding line. Finally, the agreement does not 
     approve any other realignments or reorganizations for fiscal 
     year 2024 not expressly approved within this paragraph.
       Pending reports.--In the report on the status of pending 
     congressional reports submitted to the House and Senate 
     Committees on Appropriations on May 16, 2023, the Department 
     proposed to combine overlapping reports, replace certain 
     reports with briefings, and close reporting requirements that 
     have been overcome by events. The agreement approves all such 
     changes, except those on lines 332, 337, 395, 396, 397, 472, 
     504, 507, 509, 516, 517, 531, 547, 559, 618, 632, 646, 655, 
     662, and 668. The agreement directs that the aforementioned 
     reports be retained.


                           EXECUTIVE OFFICES

       The agreement includes $19,400,000 for the salaries and 
     expenses for executive offices, available until September 30, 
     2025. The agreement does not approve a realignment of funding 
     for information technology end-user devices and wireless 
     support from the information technology fund to the salaries 
     and expenses accounts.
       Of the amounts provided, not less than $600,000 shall be 
     allocated to the Office of Gender-Based Violence Prevention 
     to support the Director and three staff positions. Continued 
     failure to establish this office as directed by Congress is 
     unacceptable, and HUD shall implement this legislative 
     requirement within 90 days of enactment of this act.


                     ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT OFFICES

       The agreement provides $686,400,000 for the salaries and 
     expenses for administrative support offices, available until 
     September 30, 2025. The agreement does not approve a 
     realignment of funding for information technology end-user 
     devices and wireless support from the information technology 
     fund to the salaries and expenses accounts.
       Of the amounts provided for the Office of Administration, 
     not less than $3,500,000 shall be for the modernization and 
     deferred maintenance of the Weaver Building.
       The following table provides funding levels for activities 
     within this account:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Office of the Chief Financial Officer..........              $91,000,000
Office of the General Counsel..................              129,700,000
    [Departmental Enforcement Center]..........           [not less than
                                                             21,700,000]
Office of Administration.......................              239,000,000
Office of the Chief Human Capital Officer......               52,000,000
Office of the Chief Procurement Officer........               32,000,000
Office of Field Policy and Management..........               68,000,000
Office of Departmental Equal Employment                        4,700,000
 Opportunity...................................
Office of the Chief Information Officer........               70,000,000
    Total......................................              686,400,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Hiring and separation report.--The agreement continues to 
     direct HUD to submit semiannual reports on hiring and 
     separations by program office, including the Office of 
     Inspector General and the Government National Mortgage 
     Association. This report shall include position titles, 
     location for FTP positions, associated FTEs, total number of 
     unfilled FTEs, and the length of time each individual FTE has 
     been unfilled. The report shall also include a trend analysis 
     on staffing levels in field offices versus headquarters.


                            PROGRAM OFFICES

       The agreement provides $1,097,164,130 for the salaries and 
     expenses for program offices, available until September 30, 
     2025. The agreement does not approve a realignment of funding 
     for information technology end-user devices and wireless 
     support from the information technology fund to the salaries 
     and expenses accounts.
       The following table provides funding levels for activities 
     within this account:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Office of Public and Indian Housing.....................    $286,000,000
Office of Community Planning and Development............     168,514,130
Office of Housing.......................................     487,550,000
Office of Policy Development and Research...............      41,000,000
Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity............     102,900,000
Office of Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes.........      11,200,000
    Total...............................................   1,097,164,130
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Office of Housing.--The agreement does not include the 
     additional funding, authority, or directive related to 
     participating administrative entities included under this 
     heading in Senate Report 118-70.


                          WORKING CAPITAL FUND

                     (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)

       For the working capital fund, the agreement permits only 
     centralized activities and funds from this account to include 
     Federal shared services for financial management, 
     procurement, travel, relocation, and human resources; 
     printing; records management (including archiving services); 
     space renovation; furniture; and supply services. The 
     agreement does not approve a realignment of funding for 
     information technology end-user devices and wireless support 
     from the information technology fund to the salaries and 
     expenses accounts.

                       Public and Indian Housing


                     TENANT-BASED RENTAL ASSISTANCE

       The agreement provides a combined total of $32,386,831,000, 
     to remain available until expended, for all tenant-based 
     section 8 activities, of which $6,000,000,000 is designated 
     as an emergency requirement.
       The following table provides funding levels for activities 
     funded within this account.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Voucher renewals...............................          $28,490,955,000
    [Tribal HUD-Veterans Affairs supportive            [up to 7,500,000]
     housing [HUD-VASH]].......................
Administrative fees............................            2,770,935,000
Tenant protection vouchers.....................              337,000,000
Section 811 mainstream vouchers................              742,941,000
Incremental HUD-VASH vouchers..................               15,000,000
Incremental family unification vouchers........               30,000,000
    Total......................................           32,386,831,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Pilot demonstration on tenant leasing.--The agreement does 
     not include the authority for a pilot demonstration to use 
     housing assistance payments for tenant leasing expenses such 
     as security and utility deposits. As included in Senate 
     Report 118-70, the Department is directed to brief the House 
     and Senate Committees on Appropriations not less than 
     annually on the utilization of administrative fees for such 
     purposes to improve voucher utilization.


                        HOUSING CERTIFICATE FUND

                        (INCLUDING RESCISSIONS)

       The agreement allows unobligated balances in the housing 
     certificate fund to be used for the renewal of or amendments 
     to section 8 project-based contracts and for performance-
     based contract administrators.


                          PUBLIC HOUSING FUND

       The agreement provides $8,810,784,000 for the public 
     housing fund to remain available until September 30, 2027.
       Within the total, the agreement provides $5,475,784,000 for 
     the public housing operating formula for 2024 payments 
     (including amounts for resident participation pursuant to 24 
     CFR Part 990); $25,000,000 for need-based allocations to 
     public housing agencies [PHAs] that experience or are at risk 
     of financial shortfalls; $3,200,000,000 for allocations to 
     PHAs through the capital fund formula; $30,000,000 for 
     emergency capital needs, of which not less than $10,000,000 
     is for safety and security measures; $65,000,000 for 
     competitive grants to public housing agencies to evaluate and 
     reduce residential health hazards, including lead-based 
     paint, carbon monoxide, mold, radon, and fire safety, of 
     which $25,000,000 is specifically for lead hazards; and 
     $15,000,000 for administrative and judicial receiverships.

[[Page S1875]]

  



           ASSISTED HOUSING INSPECTIONS AND RISK ASSESSMENTS

       The agreement provides $50,000,000 for the Department's 
     inspection and assessment programs, to remain available until 
     September 30, 2025.


                    CHOICE NEIGHBORHOODS INITIATIVE

       The agreement provides $75,000,000 for the choice 
     neighborhoods initiative, to remain available until September 
     30, 2028. Of this amount, not less than $37,500,000 shall be 
     made available to PHAs and not more than $10,000,000 is 
     available for planning grants.


                       SELF-SUFFICIENCY PROGRAMS

       The agreement provides $195,500,000 for self-sufficiency 
     programs, to remain available until September 30, 2027. Of 
     the total, $140,500,000 is for the family self-sufficiency 
     program, $40,000,000 is for the resident opportunity and 
     self-sufficiency program, and $15,000,000 is for the jobs-
     plus initiative [JPI]. The agreement does not provide 
     authority related to the payment of JPI financial and rent 
     incentives from housing assistance source accounts.


                        NATIVE AMERICAN PROGRAMS

       The agreement provides $1,344,000,000 for Native American 
     programs, to remain available until September 30, 2028. The 
     agreement provides $1,111,000,000 for the Native American 
     housing block grant program; $150,000,000 for the competitive 
     Native American housing block grant program; $1,000,000 for 
     the title VI loan guarantee program; $75,000,000 for the 
     Indian community development block grant program; and 
     $7,000,000 for training and technical assistance.


           INDIAN HOUSING LOAN GUARANTEE FUND PROGRAM ACCOUNT

       The agreement provides $1,500,000 for the cost of 
     guaranteed loans, to remain available until expended. The 
     agreement allows HUD to use funds in this and prior acts for 
     the cost of guaranteed loans that are unobligated to 
     subsidize a total loan level of not more than $1,800,000,000 
     to remain available until September 30, 2025.


                  NATIVE HAWAIIAN HOUSING BLOCK GRANT

       The agreement provides $22,300,000 for the Native Hawaiian 
     housing block grant program, to remain available until 
     September 30, 2028.


      NATIVE HAWAIIAN HOUSING LOAN GUARANTEE FUND PROGRAM ACCOUNT

       The agreement provides not more than $28,000,000 in loan 
     guarantee commitment authority, including the authority to 
     guarantee refinance loans, to remain available until 
     September 30, 2025.

                   Community Planning and Development


              HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES FOR PERSONS WITH AIDS

       The agreement provides $505,000,000 for the housing 
     opportunities for persons with AIDS [HOPWA] program, to 
     remain available until September 30, 2027.


                       COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT FUND

       The agreement provides $6,720,054,336 for the community 
     development fund, to remain available until September 30, 
     2027. Of the total, the agreement provides $3,300,000,000 in 
     community development block grant [CDBG] formula funding, 
     $30,000,000 for activities authorized under section 8071 of 
     the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act, $100,000,000 
     for grants to reduce barriers to affordable housing 
     development, and $3,290,054,336 for economic development 
     initiatives [EDIs].
       EDIs.--The agreement directs HUD to provide funding for the 
     projects listed in the table entitled ``Community Project 
     Funding/Congressionally Directed Spending'' at the end of 
     this joint explanatory statement in the corresponding 
     amounts. The agreement further directs HUD to provide semi-
     annual briefings to the House and Senate Committees on 
     Appropriations on the implementation of EDIs and the 
     Department's oversight of projects. The agreement directs HUD 
     to provide regular written updates of technical changes to 
     projects that require congressional approval. Finally, the 
     agreement notes that HUD's communication and assistance to 
     grantees has, at times, been slow and inconsistent. The 
     agreement directs HUD to prioritize timely outreach and 
     responses to EDI grantees to ensure successful execution of 
     grants.


         COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT LOAN GUARANTEES PROGRAM ACCOUNT

       The agreement provides the authority to collect fees from 
     borrowers adequate to result in a subsidy cost of zero and an 
     aggregate limitation on commitments of no more than 
     $400,000,000 for loan guarantees under section 108. Instead 
     of the request made in House Report 118-154 under this 
     heading, the agreement directs HUD to provide an update to 
     the House and Senate Committees on Appropriations regarding 
     the demand of the loan program no sooner than 180 days but no 
     later than 270 days after enactment of this act.


                  HOME INVESTMENT PARTNERSHIPS PROGRAM

       The agreement provides $1,250,000,000, to remain available 
     until September 30, 2027, for the HOME investment 
     partnerships program.


   PRESERVATION AND REINVESTMENT INITIATIVE FOR COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT

       The agreement provides $10,000,000 for the preservation and 
     reinvestment initiative for community enhancement [PRICE] 
     program, to remain available until September 30, 2028.
       PRICE program implementation.--The agreement includes the 
     directive in House Report 118-154 under this heading, except 
     that HUD must provide the update to the House and Senate 
     Committees on Appropriations no later than 30 days after 
     enactment of this act.


        SELF-HELP AND ASSISTED HOMEOWNERSHIP OPPORTUNITY PROGRAM

       The agreement provides $60,000,000, to remain available 
     until September 30, 2026. The agreement provides the 
     following funding levels for specific activities within this 
     account:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Self-help homeownership opportunity program.............     $12,000,000
Section 4 program.......................................      42,000,000
    [Rural capacity building activities]................  [not less than
                                                              5,000,000]
National rural capacity building........................       6,000,000
    Total...............................................      60,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Capacity building to address the needs of Tribal 
     communities.--The agreement directs HUD to ensure that 
     section 4 grantees collectively invest not less than 
     $1,000,000 in targeted capacity building activities to 
     benefit Native Hawaiian, American Indian, and Alaska Native 
     communities and populations in areas including, but not 
     limited to, rural areas. This minimum investment is separate 
     from the required investment for rural capacity building 
     activities of not less than $5,000,000.


                       HOMELESS ASSISTANCE GRANTS

       The agreement provides $4,051,000,000, to remain available 
     until September 30, 2026, for homeless assistance grants. 
     Funding is provided in the amounts shown in the following 
     table:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Emergency solutions grants.....................             $290,000,000
Continuum of care [CoC] and rural housing                  3,544,000,000
 stability assistance..........................
    [Projects to assist survivors of domestic               [52,000,000]
     violence, dating violence, sexual assault,
     or stalking]..............................
    [Supportive service line items to address               [25,000,000]
     COLA].....................................
    [Technical assistance].....................           [not less than
                                                             20,000,000]
National homeless data analysis project........               10,000,000
Comprehensive approach to serving homeless                   107,000,000
 youth.........................................
    [Youth homelessness system improvement                [not less than
     grants]...................................              25,000,000]
    [Technical assistance].....................       [up to 10,000,000]
One-time award for new construction,                         100,000,000
 acquisition, or rehabilitation of new
 permanent supportive housing..................
    [Awards for States with populations less              [not less than
     than 2,500,000]...........................              35,000,000]
    Total......................................            4,051,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Improving access to healthcare and services.--Within the 
     amounts provided for technical assistance, the agreement 
     provides $2,500,000 to support efforts between HUD and the 
     Department of Health and Human Services to provide direct 
     technical assistance to communities leveraging programs, such 
     as medicaid, to cover and provide housing-related supportive 
     services and behavioral healthcare. The agreement also 
     includes $25,000,000 within the CoC program for supportive 
     service line items to address reasonable cost of living 
     adjustments.
       Renewal of projects for specific populations.--The 
     agreement notes that when the House and Senate Committees on 
     Appropriations fund new projects for specific subpopulations 
     within this account (e.g., homeless youth or survivors of 
     domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault or 
     stalking) it is the Committees' expectation that renewal 
     funding for such projects be used to continue serving the 
     specified subpopulation. The agreement directs HUD to 
     immediately consult with CoCs, youth action boards, and other 
     relevant stakeholders on appropriate conditions that should 
     be met before funds may be reallocated to either a different 
     subpopulation or the overall homeless population, and to 
     brief the House and Senate Committees on Appropriations on 
     such consultations within 30 days of enactment of this act.

                            Housing Programs


                    PROJECT-BASED RENTAL ASSISTANCE

       The agreement provides a combined total of $16,010,000,000, 
     to remain available until expended, for project-based rental 
     assistance [PBRA] activities, of which $2,000,000,000 is 
     designated as an emergency requirement. Of the total, not 
     more than $468,000,000 is for performance-based contract 
     administrators [PBCAs], which, in addition to unobligated 
     balances available in the housing certificate fund, will be 
     sufficient to support PBCAs. The agreement does not include 
     additional funding for HUD to provide budget-based rent 
     adjustments to PBRA contracts that have been renewed through 
     the mark-to-market program.
       Performance-based contract administrators.--The agreement 
     prohibits HUD from issuing a solicitation or accepting bids 
     on any solicitation that is substantially equivalent to the 
     draft solicitation entitled ``Housing Assistance Payments 
     (HAP) Contract Support Services (HAPSS)'' issued by HUD on 
     July 27, 2022. The agreement directs HUD to ensure that any 
     future funding arrangements for PBCAs do not impede housing 
     finance agencies or PHAs from competing on a state-basis. 
     Should HUD determine that a subsequent draft solicitation 
     that is not substantially equivalent to the July 27, 2022 
     draft solicitation is not feasible, the agreement directs HUD 
     to include a legislative proposal as part of the fiscal year 
     2025 budget request with detailed analysis for why such 
     changes are needed in order to avoid a disruption in PBCA 
     activities. If HUD determines that a

[[Page S1876]]

     legislative proposal is necessary, HUD is directed to work 
     with relevant stakeholders to ensure any potential 
     legislative proposal results in effective and efficient 
     oversight and monitoring of the PBRA program, quality 
     services offered to property owners in each state, and 
     maintains safe, stable, and affordable housing for the over 
     1,300,000 households living in PBRA properties across the 
     country. The agreement recognizes that HUD faces a 
     complicated task of developing new PBCA arrangements before 
     the existing agreements expire and expects the Department to 
     liaise with the House and Senate Committees on 
     Appropriations, the House Committee on Financial Services, 
     and the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban 
     Affairs on any necessary changes.


                        HOUSING FOR THE ELDERLY

       The agreement provides $913,000,000 for the section 202 
     program, to remain available until September 30, 2027, of 
     which up to $112,000,000 shall be for service coordinators 
     and the continuation of existing congregate service grants. 
     This amount fully funds all annual project-based rental 
     assistance contract renewals and amendments.


                 HOUSING FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

       The agreement provides $208,000,000 for the section 811 
     program, to remain available until September 30, 2027.


                     HOUSING COUNSELING ASSISTANCE

       The agreement provides $57,500,000 for housing counseling, 
     including up to $4,500,000 for administrative contract 
     services, to remain available until September 30, 2025.
       The agreement modifies direction in Senate Report 118-70 
     regarding the timing of grant obligations and instead directs 
     the Department to expeditiously obligate the comprehensive 
     housing counseling grants and notify the House and Senate 
     Committees on Appropriations if such obligations are not made 
     within 180 days of enactment of this act.


            PAYMENT TO MANUFACTURED HOUSING FEES TRUST FUND

       The agreement provides $14,000,000 for the manufactured 
     housing standards programs, to remain available until 
     expended, of which $14,000,000 is to be derived from fees 
     collected and deposited in the manufactured housing fees 
     trust fund.

                     Federal Housing Administration


               MUTUAL MORTGAGE INSURANCE PROGRAM ACCOUNT

       The agreement sets a limit of up to $400,000,000,000 on 
     commitments to guarantee single-family loans and provides 
     $150,000,000 for administrative contract expenses, which 
     shall be available until September 30, 2025.
       Increasing affordable housing supply.--The agreement 
     includes the directives under this heading in Senate Report 
     118-70 and requires the Federal Housing Administration [FHA] 
     to also take into consideration State and local laws in its 
     legislative proposals. The legislative proposals and 
     briefings shall be provided to the House and Senate 
     Committees on Appropriations, the House Committee on 
     Financial Services, and the Senate Committee on Banking, 
     Housing, and Urban Affairs.


                GENERAL AND SPECIAL RISK PROGRAM ACCOUNT

       The agreement sets a limit of up to $35,000,000,000 on 
     multifamily and specialized loan guarantees and provides that 
     such commitment authority shall be available until September 
     30, 2025.
       Multifamily loan program.--The agreement directs the 
     Department to brief the House and Senate Committees on 
     Appropriations within 180 days of enactment of this act on 
     actions taken by the Department to respond to market 
     conditions and increase volume of FHA multifamily lending for 
     new construction and rehabilitation loans.

                Government National Mortgage Association


Guarantees of Mortgage-Backed Securities Loan Guarantee Program Account

       The agreement sets a limit of up to $550,000,000,000 for 
     new commitments and provides $54,000,000 for salaries and 
     expenses for the Government National Mortgage Association, 
     which shall be available until September 30, 2025.
       Non-personnel expenses.--The agreement notes the important 
     role the Government National Mortgage Association [GNMA] 
     plays in the U.S. mortgage market and global economy and the 
     resources needed to support this work, particularly during 
     times of budgetary uncertainties. However, the agreement 
     notes its expressed concern about the GNMA's understanding of 
     its resource needs as operational changes emerge. The 
     agreement directs the GNMA to continue to consult and confer 
     with the appropriations attorneys in the OCFO and to refer 
     all appropriations law issues to such attorneys within the 
     OCFO. These appropriations law staff routinely provide 
     prompt, accurate, and reliable information on various 
     appropriations law matters, including training HUD staff in 
     funds control procedures and directives, as required by 
     section 215 of this act. The agreement reiterates that all 
     communications regarding budget and appropriations issues 
     should be conducted through proper official channels, 
     consistent with the Office of Management and Budget guidance 
     and 18 U.S.C. 1913. The agreement also directs the GNMA to 
     submit quarterly reports to the House and Senate Committees 
     on Appropriations on the status of all non-personnel 
     expenses, including travel, training, conferences, contracts 
     and supplies, and how it is using carryover balances of 
     contingent spending authority from offsetting collections.

                    Policy Development and Research


                        RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY

       The agreement provides $119,000,000 for research and 
     technology activities and technical assistance, to remain 
     available until September 30, 2025, and an additional 
     $20,000,000 for competitive grants to nonprofit or 
     governmental entities to provide legal assistance to eligible 
     low-income tenants at risk of or subject to eviction, to 
     remain available until September 30, 2026. Funding is 
     provided in the amounts shown in the following table:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Core research and technology...................             No less than
                                                             $70,000,000
    [Cooperative agreements and research                    [10,000,000]
     partnerships with minority-serving
     institutions].............................
Legal assistance to low-income tenants at risk               $20,000,000
 of or subject to eviction.....................
Research, evaluations, and demonstrations......          Up to 7,000,000
Technical assistance...........................         Up to 42,000,000
    [Manufactured housing communities].........        [up to 2,500,000]
    Total......................................              139,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Core research and technology.--The agreement provides not 
     less than $70,000,000 for the core research and technology 
     programs, including market surveys, research support and 
     dissemination, data acquisition, housing finance studies, 
     research partnerships, and housing technology, of which 
     $10,000,000 is for cooperative agreements and research 
     partnerships with historically Black colleges and 
     universities, Tribal colleges and universities, Hispanic 
     serving institutions, and Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian 
     serving institutions.
       Research, evaluation, and demonstration.--The agreement 
     provides up to $7,000,000 for new and continuing studies and 
     demonstration evaluations, including Moving to Work [MTW] 
     expansion, Native American housing block grants competitive 
     program evaluation, and missing middle financing.
       Technical assistance.--The agreement provides up to 
     $42,000,000 for technical assistance. The agreement further 
     directs the Department to continue to use funds included in 
     fiscal years 2022 and 2023 for training and technical 
     assistance to support implementation of the Violence Against 
     Women Act and to coordinate with entities whose primary 
     purpose and expertise is in assisting survivors of sexual 
     assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and/or stalking. 
     The agreement further directs that up to $2,500,000 shall be 
     available on a competitive basis to non-profit organizations 
     to provide technical assistance to resident-owned 
     manufactured housing communities, owners and residents of 
     manufactured housing and communities, and units of general 
     local government or States that have manufactured housing in 
     their community or are looking to expand manufactured housing 
     opportunities.

                   Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity


                        Fair Housing Activities

       The agreement provides $86,355,000 for fair housing 
     activities, to remain available until September 30, 2025. 
     This includes $26,000,000 for the fair housing assistance 
     program, $56,000,000 for the fair housing initiatives program 
     [FHIP], $1,355,000 for the limited English proficiency 
     initiative, and $3,000,000 for the national fair housing 
     training academy. Of the funds available for FHIP, not less 
     than $10,400,000 is for education and outreach programs, and 
     not less than $3,700,000 is for fair housing organization 
     initiatives.

            Office of Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes


                         Lead Hazard Reduction

                     (Including Transfer of Funds)

       The agreement provides $345,000,000 for lead hazard control 
     and healthy homes programs, to remain available until 
     September 30, 2026. Of that amount, $49,400,000 shall be 
     derived from unobligated balances from prior year 
     appropriations for the lead risk assessment demonstration, 
     which has concluded.
       The following table provides funding levels for activities 
     within this account:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lead hazard reduction grants...................             $200,000,000
    [Areas with the highest lead-based paint               [105,000,000]
     abatement needs]..........................
Healthy homes initiative.......................              140,000,000
    [Weatherization cooperation demonstration].              [5,000,000]
    [Aging-in-place home modification grants]..             [30,000,000]
Healthy homes technical studies................                3,000,000
Radon testing and mitigation demonstration.....                2,000,000
    Total......................................              345,000,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       New financing mechanism pilot.--The agreement does not fund 
     the pilot or include related directives under this heading in 
     House Report 118-154.
       Improving the lead grant application process.--The 
     agreement directs HUD to continue to conduct outreach and 
     improve its NOFOs to encourage more grantees to apply, 
     especially those that may not have access to professional 
     grant writers, such as smaller and more rural communities. 
     Additionally, HUD shall continue to clearly state in its 
     NOFOs that an application may include nonprofit co-
     applicants, provided that an eligible city, county/parish, 
     other unit of local government, or eligible State or Tribe 
     are identified as the lead or co-applicant. Non-profit co-
     applicants may include community development financial 
     institutions that are positioned to accelerate the pace at 
     which low-income homeowners and rental property owners can 
     address lead paint hazards in high-risk communities.

[[Page S1877]]

       Lead risk assessment.--The agreement directs the Offices of 
     Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes and Public and Indian 
     Housing to jointly engage with PHAs and other stakeholders to 
     assess why so few applications were submitted for the lead 
     risk assessment demonstration and brief the House and Senate 
     Committees on Appropriations on the findings of this 
     engagement no later than 270 days after the enactment of this 
     act.

                      Information Technology Fund

       The agreement provides $383,050,000 for the information 
     technology fund, to remain available until September 30, 
     2026, of which up to $23,950,000 is available for 
     development, modernization, and enhancement [DME] projects. 
     The agreement includes an increase of $8,300,000 for 
     cybersecurity as requested but does not approve a realignment 
     of funding for information technology end-user devices and 
     wireless support from the information technology fund to the 
     salaries and expenses accounts.
       The following table provides allocations of funds to 
     continue existing DME projects, which are subject to section 
     405 of this act:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Electronic special needs assistance.....................      $5,000,000
Public and Indian Housing modernization.................       1,102,000
Line of credit control system/Treasury Administrative          3,000,000
 Resource Center Oracle Federal financials financial
 interface modernization................................
FHA modernization.......................................       3,000,000
Enterprise identity credential access management, zero        11,848,000
 trust & trusted Internet connection....................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

       Quarterly briefings.--The agreement does not require HUD to 
     submit information technology performance plans as directed 
     under this heading in House Report 118-154. Instead, the 
     agreement directs HUD to provide sufficient detail on DME 
     projects in its congressional justifications and to provide 
     quarterly briefings on information technology modernization 
     efforts as directed under this heading in Senate Report 118-
     70. The briefings shall also summarize the status, cost, and 
     plan for all modernization projects.

                      Office Of Inspector General

       The agreement provides $152,924,000 for the salaries and 
     expenses of the Office of Inspector General.

    General Provisions--Department of Housing and Urban Development


                        (Including Rescissions)

                     (Including Transfer of Funds)

       Section 201 splits overpayments evenly between the Treasury 
     and State housing finance agencies.
       Section 202 prohibits funds from being used to investigate 
     or prosecute lawful activities under the Fair Housing Act.
       Section 203 requires any grant or cooperative agreement to 
     be made on a competitive basis, unless otherwise provided, in 
     accordance with section 102 of the Department of Housing and 
     Urban Development Reform Act of 1989.
       Section 204 relates to the availability of funds for 
     services and facilities for government-sponsored enterprises 
     and others subject to the Government Corporation Control Act 
     and the Housing Act.
       Section 205 prohibits the use of funds in excess of the 
     budget estimates, unless provided otherwise.
       Section 206 relates to the expenditure of funds for 
     corporations and agencies subject to the Government 
     Corporation Control Act.
       Section 207 requires the Secretary to provide quarterly 
     reports on uncommitted, unobligated, recaptured, and excess 
     funds in each departmental program and activity.
       Section 208 exempts the Government National Mortgage 
     Association from certain requirements of the Federal Credit 
     Reform Act of 1990.
       Section 209 authorizes HUD to transfer debt and use 
     agreements from an obsolete project to a viable project, 
     provided that no additional costs are incurred and other 
     conditions are met.
       Section 210 sets forth certain requirements for section 8 
     eligibility and includes consideration for persons with 
     disabilities.
       Section 211 distributes Native American housing block 
     grants to the same Native Alaskan recipients as in fiscal 
     year 2005.
       Section 212 instructs HUD on managing and disposing of any 
     multifamily property that is owned or held by HUD.
       Section 213 allows PHAs that own and operate 400 or fewer 
     units of public housing to be exempt from asset management 
     requirements.
       Section 214 restricts the Secretary from imposing any 
     requirements or guidelines relating to asset management that 
     restrict or limit the use of capital funds for central office 
     costs, up to the limits established in law.
       Section 215 requires that no employee of the Department be 
     designated as an allotment holder unless the CFO determines 
     that such employee has received certain training.
       Section 216 requires the Secretary to notify the public of 
     NOFOs for competitively awarded funds and establishes how 
     such notification may occur.
       Section 217 requires attorney fees for programmatic 
     litigation to be paid from the individual program office and 
     the Office of General Counsel salaries and expenses 
     appropriations.
       Section 218 allows the Secretary to transfer up to 10 
     percent of funds or $5,000,000, whichever is less, 
     appropriated under the headings ``Administrative Support 
     Offices'' or ``Program Offices'' to any other office funded 
     under such headings.
       Section 219 requires HUD to take certain actions against 
     owners receiving rental subsidies that do not maintain safe 
     properties.
       Section 220 places a salary and bonus limit on public 
     housing agency officials and employees.
       Section 221 requires the Secretary to notify the House and 
     Senate Committees on Appropriations at least 3 full business 
     days before grant awards are announced, and requires such 
     notification to include State and congressional district 
     information.
       Section 222 prohibits funds for HUD financing of mortgages 
     for properties that have been subject to eminent domain.
       Section 223 prohibits the use of funds to terminate the 
     status of a unit of general local government as a 
     metropolitan city with respect to grants under section 106 of 
     the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974.
       Section 224 allows funding for research, evaluation, and 
     statistical purposes that is unexpended at the time of 
     completion of the contract, grant, or cooperative agreement 
     to be re-obligated for additional research.
       Section 225 prohibits funds for financial awards for 
     employees subject to administrative discipline.
       Section 226 allows program income as an eligible match for 
     2015 through 2024 continuum of care funds.
       Section 227 permits HUD to provide one year transition 
     grants under the continuum of care program.
       Section 228 maintains current promise zone designations and 
     agreements.
       Section 229 addresses the establishment of reserves for 
     public housing agencies designated as MTW agencies.
       Section 230 prohibits funds from being used to make certain 
     eligibility limitations as part of a notice of funding 
     opportunity for competitive grant awards under the public 
     housing fund.
       Section 231 makes programmatic changes to the rental 
     assistance demonstration.
       Section 232 addresses the manner in which HUD may make 
     adjustments for formula allocation corrections.
       Section 233 allows for transfers to the information 
     technology fund.
       Section 234 requires compliance with all process 
     requirements when revising any annual contributions contract.
       Section 235 establishes a nonrecurring expenses fund for 
     capital needs of the Department.
       Section 236 rescinds certain unobligated balances.
       Section 237 prohibits the use of funds by HUD to issue a 
     solicitation or accept bids on any solicitation that is 
     substantially equivalent to the draft solicitation entitled 
     ``Housing Assistance Payments (HAP) Contract Supports 
     Services (HAPSS)'' posted on July 27, 2022.
       Section 238 clarifies the use of funds for the family self-
     sufficiency program.
       Section 239 extends the expenditure period for certain 
     previously appropriated choice neighborhoods initiatives and 
     lead hazard reduction program funds.
       Section 240 allows for limited transfer of funds from the 
     Office of Policy Development and Research to the information 
     technology fund.
       Section 241 extends certain MTW agreements for 10 years.
       Section 242 allows a 2-year NOFO for the continuum of care 
     program.
       Section 243 allows the Secretary to waive or specify 
     alternatives for certain requirements for the mainstream and 
     family unification voucher programs.

                               TITLE III

                            RELATED AGENCIES

                              Access Board


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement provides $9,955,000 for salaries and 
     expenses.

                      Federal Maritime Commission


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement provides $40,000,000, of which $2,000,000 
     shall remain available until September 30, 2025, for the 
     salaries and expenses of the Federal Maritime Commission 
     [FMC]. Of the funds provided, not more than $3,500 shall be 
     available for official reception and representation expenses 
     and up to $629,628 is available for the FMC Office of 
     Inspector General.

  National Railroad Passenger Corporation Office of Inspector General


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement provides $29,240,000 for the salaries and 
     expenses of the National Railroad Passenger Corporation 
     Office of Inspector General.

                  National Transportation Safety Board


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement provides $140,000,000 for the salaries and 
     expenses of the National Transportation Safety Board [NTSB].
       The amounts provided will allow the NTSB to cover baseline 
     adjustments, and provide $5,693,000 for increased staffing, 
     program investments, and operational expenses. Within 30 days 
     of enactment of this act, the NTSB shall report to the House 
     and Senate Committees on Appropriations on the number of 
     staff on board in each office on October 1, 2023, and the 
     number of staff it anticipates having on board in each office 
     on September 30, 2024. The agreement directs the NTSB to 
     submit quarterly staffing data for each office, including 
     hiring and separations, to the House and Senate Committees on 
     Appropriations. The agreement directs the NTSB to include 
     both FTE and FTP data in future

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     budget justifications, and to ensure its staffing levels do 
     not exceed the level of staff supported by the amounts made 
     available in this act.

                 Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation


          PAYMENT TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD REINVESTMENT CORPORATION

       The agreement provides $158,000,000 for the Neighborhood 
     Reinvestment Corporation, operating under the trade name 
     ``Neighbor Works America.''
       Shared equity homeownership.--The agreement supports 
     NeighborWorks in its efforts to continue to advance shared 
     equity models, but does not specify a set-aside for such 
     activities. NeighborWorks is directed to work with affiliated 
     organizations with extensive experience in offering shared 
     equity homeownership opportunities as technical assistance 
     providers, and to continue to develop and enhance 
     professional development offerings around shared equity 
     housing.

                      Surface Transportation Board


                         SALARIES AND EXPENSES

       The agreement provides $47,452,000 for the salaries and 
     expenses of the Surface Transportation Board [STB]. The 
     agreement permits the collection of up to $1,250,000 in user 
     fees to be credited to this appropriation and provides that 
     the general fund appropriation be reduced on a dollar-for-
     dollar basis by the actual amount collected in user fees to 
     result in a final appropriation from the general fund 
     estimated at not more than $46,202,000.

           United States Interagency Council on Homelessness


                           OPERATING EXPENSES

       The agreement provides $4,300,000 for operating expenses of 
     the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness [USICH].
       Annual reporting requirements.--The direction under this 
     heading in House Report 118-154 is modified to direct the 
     USICH to submit the fiscal year 2024 report no later than 120 
     days after the end of the fiscal year.

                                TITLE IV

                      General Provisions--This Act

       Section 401 prohibits the use of funds for the planning or 
     execution of any program to pay the expenses of, or otherwise 
     compensate, non-Federal parties intervening in regulatory or 
     adjudicatory proceedings.
       Section 402 prohibits the obligation of funds beyond the 
     current fiscal year and the transfer of funds to other 
     appropriations, unless expressly provided.
       Section 403 limits consulting service expenditures through 
     procurement contracts to those contracts contained in the 
     public record, except where otherwise provided under existing 
     law.
       Section 404 prohibits funds from being used for certain 
     types of employee training.
       Section 405 specifies requirements for the reprogramming of 
     funds and requires agencies to submit a report in order to 
     establish the baseline for the application of reprogramming 
     and transfer authorities.
       Section 406 provides that not to exceed 50 percent of 
     unobligated balances for salaries and expenses may remain 
     available until September 30, 2025, for each account for the 
     purposes authorized, subject to the approval of the House and 
     Senate Committees on Appropriations.
       Section 407 prohibits the use of funds for any project that 
     seeks to use the power of eminent domain, unless eminent 
     domain is employed only for a public use.
       Section 408 prohibits funds from being transferred to any 
     department, agency, or instrumentality of the U.S. 
     Government, except where transfer authority is provided in 
     this or any other appropriations act.
       Section 409 prohibits funds from being used by an entity 
     unless the expenditure is in compliance with the Buy American 
     Act.
       Section 410 prohibits funds from being made available to 
     any person or entity that has been convicted of violating the 
     Buy American Act.
       Section 411 prohibits funds from being used for first-class 
     airline accommodations in contravention of sections 301-
     10.122 and 301-10.123 of title 41, CFR.
       Section 412 restricts the number of employees that agencies 
     may send to international conferences unless such attendance 
     is important to the national interest.
       Section 413 caps the amount of fees the STB can charge or 
     collect for rate or practice complaints filed at the amount 
     authorized for district court civil suit filing fees.
       Section 414 prohibits funds from being used to maintain or 
     establish computer networks unless such networks block the 
     viewing, downloading, or exchange of pornography.
       Section 415 prohibits funds from being used to deny an 
     Inspector General timely access to any records, documents, or 
     other materials available to the department or agency over 
     which that Inspector General has responsibilities, or to 
     prevent or impede that Inspector General's access to such 
     records, documents, or other materials.
       Section 416 prohibits funds to be used to pay award or 
     incentive fees for contractors whose performance is below 
     satisfactory, behind schedule, over budget, or failed to meet 
     requirements of the contract, with exceptions.
       Section 417 prohibits funds from being used to permanently 
     replace an employee intent on returning to his or her past 
     occupation following completion of military service.
       Section 418 prohibits funds from being used for the 
     approval of a new foreign air carrier permit or exemption 
     application if that approval would contravene U.S. law or 
     Article 17 bis of the U.S.-E.U.-Iceland-Norway Air Transport 
     Agreement.
       Section 419 makes technical corrections to division L of 
     Public Law 117-103 and Public Law 117-328.
       Section 420 prohibits funds made available by this act to 
     HUD from being used in contravention of 42 U.S.C. 5155.
       Section 421 prohibits funds made available by this act to 
     the DOT from being used in contravention of 54 U.S.C. 306108.
       Section 422 prohibits funds from being used to require the 
     use of inward-facing cameras or require a motor carrier to be 
     enrolled in the Department of Labor's registered 
     apprenticeship program as conditions for participation in the 
     safe driver apprenticeship pilot program.
       Section 423 prohibits the use of funds to direct a grantee 
     to undertake specific changes to existing zoning laws as part 
     of carrying out the final rule entitled, ``Affirmatively 
     Furthering Fair Housing'' or the notice entitled, 
     ``Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing Assessment Tool''.
       Section 424 restates current law regarding eligibility and 
     ineligibility of immigrants to receive housing assistance.
       Section 425 increases the weight limitations for certain 
     vehicles on the interstate in Mississippi and West Virginia 
     by special permit.
       Section 426 prohibits funds made available to the DOT from 
     being used to enforce a mask mandate in response to the 
     COVID-19 virus.

   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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