[House Report 111-711]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]


                                                 Union Calendar No. 434

111th Congress, 2d Session - - - - - - - - - - - - House Report 111-711


                               (111-142)

                                SUMMARY

                                   OF

                  LEGISLATIVE AND OVERSIGHT ACTIVITIES

                               ----------                              

                     ONE HUNDRED ELEVENTH CONGRESS

                             first session
                        Convened January 6, 2009
                      Adjourned December 23, 2009

                             second session
                        Convened January 5, 2010
                      Adjourned December 22, 2010

                               ----------                              

             COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE

                     U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES







January 3, 2011.--Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the 
              State of the Union and ordered to be printed

     





                                                 Union Calendar No. 434

111th Congress, 2d Session - - - - - - - - - - - - House Report 111-711


                               (111-142)

                                SUMMARY

                                   OF

                  LEGISLATIVE AND OVERSIGHT ACTIVITIES

                               __________

                     ONE HUNDRED ELEVENTH CONGRESS

                             first session
                        Convened January 6, 2009
                      Adjourned December 23, 2009

                             second session
                        Convened January 5, 2010
                      Adjourned December 22, 2010

                               __________

             COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE

                     U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES






January 3, 2011.--Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the 
              State of the Union and ordered to be printed

                         U.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE

99-006                    WASHINGTON : 2011








             COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE

                 JAMES L. OBERSTAR, Minnesota, Chairman
NICK J. RAHALL, II, West Virginia,   JOHN L. MICA, Florida
    Vice Chair                       DON YOUNG, Alaska
PETER A. DeFAZIO, Oregon             THOMAS E. PETRI, Wisconsin
JERRY F. COSTELLO, Illinois          HOWARD COBLE, North Carolina
ELEANOR HOLMES NORTON, District of   JOHN J. DUNCAN, Jr., Tennessee
    Columbia                         VERNON J. EHLERS, Michigan
JERROLD NADLER, New York             FRANK A. LoBIONDO, New Jersey
CORRINE BROWN, Florida               JERRY MORAN, Kansas
EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON, Texas         GARY G. MILLER, California
GENE TAYLOR, Mississippi             HENRY E. BROWN, Jr., South 
ELIJAH E. CUMMINGS, Maryland             Carolina
LEONARD L. BOSWELL, Iowa             TIMOTHY V. JOHNSON, Illinois
TIM HOLDEN, Pennsylvania             TODD RUSSELL PLATTS, Pennsylvania
BRIAN BAIRD, Washington              SAM GRAVES, Missouri
RICK LARSEN, Washington              BILL SHUSTER, Pennsylvania
MICHAEL E. CAPUANO, Massachusetts    JOHN BOOZMAN, Arkansas
TIMOTHY H. BISHOP, New York          SHELLEY MOORE CAPITO, West 
MICHAEL H. MICHAUD, Maine                Virginia
RUSS CARNAHAN, Missouri              JIM GERLACH, Pennsylvania
GRACE F. NAPOLITANO, California      MARIO DIAZ-BALART, Florida
DANIEL LIPINSKI, Illinois            CHARLES W. DENT, Pennsylvania
MAZIE K. HIRONO, Hawaii              CONNIE MACK, Florida
JASON ALTMIRE, Pennsylvania          LYNN A. WESTMORELAND, Georgia
TIMOTHY J. WALZ, Minnesota           JEAN SCHMIDT, Ohio
HEATH SHULER, North Carolina         CANDICE S. MILLER, Michigan
MICHAEL A. ARCURI, New York          MARY FALLIN, Oklahoma
HARRY E. MITCHELL, Arizona           VERN BUCHANAN, Florida
CHRISTOPHER P. CARNEY, Pennsylvania  BRETT GUTHRIE, Kentucky
JOHN J. HALL, New York               ANH ``JOSEPH'' CAO, Louisiana
STEVE KAGEN, Wisconsin               AARON SCHOCK, Illinois
STEVE COHEN, Tennessee               PETE OLSON, Texas
LAURA A. RICHARDSON, California      TOM GRAVES, Georgia
ALBIO SIRES, New Jersey
DONNA F. EDWARDS, Maryland
SOLOMON P. ORTIZ, Texas
PHIL HARE, Illinois
JOHN A. BOCCIERI, Ohio
MARK H. SCHAUER, Michigan
BETSY MARKEY, Colorado
MICHAEL E. McMAHON, New York
THOMAS S.P. PERRIELLO, Virginia
DINA TITUS, Nevada
HARRY TEAGUE, New Mexico
JOHN GARAMENDI, California
HANK JOHNSON, Georgia
                        SUBCOMMITTEE ON AVIATION

                 JERRY F. COSTELLO, Illinois, Chairman
RUSS CARNAHAN, Missouri              THOMAS E. PETRI, Wisconsin
MICHAEL E. McMAHON, New York         HOWARD COBLE, North Carolina
PETER A. DeFAZIO, Oregon             JOHN J. DUNCAN, Jr., Tennessee
ELEANOR HOLMES NORTON, District of   VERNON J. EHLERS, Michigan
    Columbia                         FRANK A. LoBIONDO, New Jersey
BOB FILNER, California               JERRY MORAN, Kansas
EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON, Texas         SAM GRAVES, Missouri
LEONARD L. BOSWELL, Iowa             JOHN BOOZMAN, Arkansas
TIM HOLDEN, Pennsylvania             SHELLEY MOORE CAPITO, West 
MICHAEL E. CAPUANO, Massachusetts        Virginia
DANIEL LIPINSKI, Illinois            JIM GERLACH, Pennsylvania
MAZIE K. HIRONO, Hawaii              CHARLES W. DENT, Pennsylvania
HARRY E. MITCHELL, Arizona           CONNIE MACK, Florida
JOHN J. HALL, New York               LYNN A. WESTMORELAND, Georgia
STEVE COHEN, Tennessee               JEAN SCHMIDT, Ohio
LAURA A. RICHARDSON, California      MARY FALLIN, Oklahoma
JOHN A. BOCCIERI, Ohio, Vice Chair   VERN BUCHANAN, Florida
NICK J. RAHALL, II, West Virginia    BRETT GUTHRIE, Kentucky
CORRINE BROWN, Florida
JASON ALTMIRE, Pennsylvania
SOLOMON P. ORTIZ, Texas
MARK H. SCHAUER, Michigan
THOMAS S.P. PERRIELLO, Virginia
JOHN GARAMENDI, California
DINA TITUS, Nevada
JAMES L. OBERSTAR, Minnesota (Ex 
    Officio)

        SUBCOMMITTEE ON COAST GUARD AND MARITIME TRANSPORTATION

                 ELIJAH E. CUMMINGS, Maryland, Chairman
CORRINE BROWN, Florida               FRANK A. LoBIONDO, New Jersey
RICK LARSEN, Washington              DON YOUNG, Alaska
GENE TAYLOR, Mississippi             HOWARD COBLE, North Carolina
BRIAN BAIRD, Washington              VERNON J. EHLERS, Michigan
TIMOTHY H. BISHOP, New York          TODD RUSSELL PLATTS, Pennsylvania
STEVE KAGEN, Wisconsin               PETE OLSON, Texas
MICHAEL E. McMAHON, New York, Vice 
    Chair
LAURA A. RICHARDSON, California
JAMES L. OBERSTAR, Minnesota (Ex 
    Officio)
 SUBCOMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, PUBLIC BUILDINGS, AND EMERGENCY 
                              MANAGEMENT 

        ELEANOR HOLMES NORTON, District of Columbia, Chairwoman
BETSY MARKEY, Colorado               MARIO DIAZ-BALART, Florida
MICHAEL H. MICHAUD, Maine            TIMOTHY V. JOHNSON, Illinois
HEATH SHULER, North Carolina         SAM GRAVES, Missouri
RUSS CARNAHAN, Missouri              SHELLEY MOORE CAPITO, West 
TIMOTHY J. WALZ, Minnesota               Virginia
MICHAEL A. ARCURI, New York          MARY FALLIN, Oklahoma
CHRISTOPHER P. CARNEY, Pennsylvania  BRETT GUTHRIE, Kentucky
DONNA F. EDWARDS, Maryland           ANH ``JOSEPH'' CAO, Louisiana
THOMAS S.P. PERRIELLO, Virginia,     VACANCY
    Vice Chair
HANK JOHNSON, Georgia
JAMES L. OBERSTAR, Minnesota (Ex 
    Officio)

                  SUBCOMMITTEE ON HIGHWAYS AND TRANSIT

                   PETER A. DeFAZIO, Oregon, Chairman
NICK J. RAHALL II, West Virginia     JOHN J. DUNCAN, Jr., Tennessee
JERROLD NADLER, New York             DON YOUNG, Alaska
BOB FILNER, California               THOMAS E. PETRI, Wisconsin
TIM HOLDEN, Pennsylvania             HOWARD COBLE, North Carolina
BRIAN BAIRD, Washington              JERRY MORAN, Kansas
MICHAEL E. CAPUANO, Massachusetts    GARY G. MILLER, California
TIMOTHY H. BISHOP, New York          HENRY E. BROWN, Jr., South 
MICHAEL H. MICHAUD, Maine                Carolina
GRACE F. NAPOLITANO, California      TIMOTHY V. JOHNSON, Illinois
DANIEL LIPINSKI, Illinois            TODD RUSSELL PLATTS, Pennsylvania
MAZIE K. HIRONO, Hawaii              ILL SHUSTER, Pennsylvania
JASON ALTMIRE, Pennsylvania          JOHN BOOZMAN, Arkansas
TIMOTHY J. WALZ, Minnesota           SHELLEY MOORE CAPITO, West 
HEATH SHULER, North Carolina             Virginia
MICHAEL A ARCURI, New York           JIM GERLACH, Pennsylvania
HARRY E. MITCHELL, Arizona           MARIO DIAZ-BALART, Florida
CHRISTOPHER P. CARNEY, Pennsylvania  CHARLES W. DENT, Pennsylvania
STEVE COHEN, Tennessee               CONNIE MACK, Florida
LAURA A. RICHARDSON, California      JEAN SCHMIDT, Ohio
ALBIO SIRES, New Jersey              CANDICE S. MILLER, Michigan
DONNA F. EDWARDS, Maryland           MARY FALLIN, Oklahoma
GENE TAYLOR, Mississippi             VERN BUCHANAN, Florida
LEONARD L. BOSWELL, Iowa             AARON SCHOCK, Illinois
RICK LARSEN, Washington              TOM GRAVES, Georgia
JOHN J. HALL, New York
STEVE KAGEN, Wisconsin
SOLOMON P. ORTIZ, Texas
PHIL HARE, Illinois
JOHN A. BOCCIERI, Ohio
MARK H. SCHAUER, Michigan
BETSY MARKEY, Colorado
JAMES L. OBERSTAR, Minnesota (Ex 
    Officio)
     SUBCOMMITTEE ON RAILROADS, PIPELINES, AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

                   CORRINE BROWN, Florida Chairwoman
DINA TITUS, Nevada                   BILL SHUSTER, Pennsylvania
HARRY TEAGUE, New Mexico             THOMAS E. PETRI, Wisconsin
NICK J. RAHALL II, West Virginia     JERRY MORAN, Kansas
JERROLD NADLER, New York             GARY G. MILLER, California
ELIJAH E. CUMMINGS, Maryland         HENRY E. BROWN, Jr., South 
GRACE F. NAPOLITANO, California          Carolina
JASON ALTMIRE, Pennsylvania          TIMOTHY V. JOHNSON, Illinois
TIMOTHY J. WALZ, Minnesota, Vice     SAM GRAVES, Missouri
    Chair                            JIM GERLACH, Pennsylvania
MICHAEL A. ARCURI, New York          CHARLES W. DENT, Pennsylvania
CHRISTOPHER P. CARNEY, Pennsylvania  LYNN A. WESTMORELAND, Georgia
ALBIO SIRES, New Jersey              JEAN SCHMIDT, Ohio
MARK H. SCHAUER, Michigan            CANDICE S. MILLER, Michigan
BETSY MARKEY, Colorado               VERN BUCHANAN, Florida
MICHAEL E. McMAHON, New York         BRETT GUTHRIE, Kentucky
THOMAS S. P. PERRIELLO, Virginia     AARON SCHOCK, Illinois
PETER A. DeFAZIO, Oregon             ANH ``JOSEPH'' CAO, Louisiana
JERRY F. COSTELLO, Illinois          PETE OLSON, Texas
BOB FILNER, California               TOM GRAVES, Georgia
EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON, Texas
LEONARD L. BOSWELL, Iowa
RICK LARSEN, Washington
MICHAEL H. MICHAUD, Maine
DANIEL LIPINSKI, Illinois
STEVE COHEN, Tennessee
LAURA A. RICHARDSON, California
JAMES L. OBERSTAR, Minnesota (ex 
    officio)
            SUBCOMMITTEE ON WATER RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENT

                EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON, Texas, Chairwoman
THOMAS S. P. PERRIELLO, Virginia     JOHN BOOZMAN, Arkansas
JERRY F. COSTELLO, Illinois          DON YOUNG, Alaska
GENE TAYLOR, Mississippi             JOHN J. DUNCAN, Jr., Tennessee
BRIAN BAIRD, Washington              VERNON J. EHLERS, Michigan
TIMOTHY H. BISHOP, New York          FRANK A. LoBIONDO, New Jersey
RUSS CARNAHAN, Missouri              GARY G. MILLER, California
STEVE KAGEN, Wisconsin               HENRY E. BROWN, Jr., South 
DONNA F. EDWARDS, Maryland, Vice         Carolina
    Chair                            TODD RUSSELL PLATTS, Pennsylvania
SOLOMON P. ORTIZ, Texas              BILL SHUSTER, Pennsylvania
PHIL HARE, Illinois                  MARIO DIAZ-BALART, Florida
DINA TITUS, Nevada                   CONNIE MACK, Florida
HARRY TEAGUE, New Mexico             LYNN A WESTMORELAND, Georgia
ELEANOR HOLMES NORTON, District of   CANDICE S. MILLER, Michigan
    Columbia                         ANH ``JOSEPH'' CAO, Louisiana
MICHAEL E. CAPUANO, Massachusetts    PETE OLSON, Texas
GRACE F. NAPOLITANO, California      TOM GRAVES, Georgia
MAZIE K. HIRONO, Hawaii
HARRY E. MITCHELL, Arizona
JOHN J. HALL, New York
BOB FILNER, California
CORRINE BROWN, Florida
JOHN GARAMENDI, California
HANK JOHNSON, Georgia
JAMES L. OBERSTAR, Minnesota (Ex 
    Officio)








                            C O N T E N T S

                              ----------                              
                                                                   Page
Letter of Submittal..............................................    IX
Jurisdiction of the House Committee on Transportation and 
  Infrastructure.................................................     1
Foreword.........................................................     3
Bills enacted into Law...........................................     6
Committee Bills and Resolutions that passed the House but not 
  acted on by the Senate.........................................    11
Concurrent Resolutions approved by both Chambers.................    10
Committee Views and Estimates Report.............................    15
Bills enacted into Law (summaries of public laws)................    16
Summary of activities:
    Full Committee...............................................    66
    Subcommittee on Aviation.....................................    97
    Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation......   126
    Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings, and 
      Emergency Management.......................................   145
    Subcommittee on Highways and Transit.........................   237
    Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials   257
    Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment..............   272
Summary of Oversight and Investigations Activities...............   294
Jurisdictional Exchange of Letters...............................   307
Publications.....................................................   313
                          LETTER OF SUBMITTAL

                              ----------                              

                          House of Representatives,
            Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure,
                                   Washington, DC, January 3, 2011.
Hon. Nancy Pelosi,
Speaker of the House, House of Representatives,
The Capitol, Washington, DC.
    Dear Madam Speaker, Pursuant to Clause (1)(d) of Rule XI of 
the Rules of the House of Representatives, I submit the Summary 
of Legislative and Oversight Activities of the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure for the 111th Congress. The 
purpose of this report is to provide Members of Congress, 
Congressional staff, and the general public with an overview of 
the activities of the Committee.
    This report is intended as a general reference tool and not 
as a substitute for Committee hearing records, reports, and 
files.
            With all best wishes,
                                         James L. Oberstar,
                                                          Chairman.
    Enclosure.


                                                Union Calendar No. 434
111th Congress  }                                           {   Report
 2d Session     }          HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES         {  111-711
======================================================================



 
     SUMMARY OF LEGISLATIVE AND OVERSIGHT ACTIVITIES--COMMITTEE ON 
                   TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE

                                _______
                                

 January 3, 2011.--Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the 
              State of the Union and ordered to be printed

                                _______
                                

Mr. Oberstar, from the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, 
                        submitted the following

                              R E P O R T

 PROVISIONS OF THE RULES OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES APPLICABLE TO 
     COMMITTEE ACTIVITIES; JURISDICTION OF THE HOUSE COMMITTEE ON 
                   TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE


                                ``Rule X


                      ``ORGANIZATION OF COMMITTEES

            ``Committees and their legislative jurisdictions

    ``1. There shall be in the House the Following standing 
committees, each of which shall have the jurisdiction and 
related functions assigned by this clause and clauses 2, 3, and 
4. All bills, resolutions, and other matters relating to 
subjects within the jurisdiction of the standing committees 
listed in this clause shall be referred to those committees, in 
accordance with clause 2 of rule XII, as follows:
    ``(r) Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
    ``(1) Coast Guard, including lifesaving service, 
lighthouses, lightships, ocean derelicts, and the Coast Guard 
Academy.
    ``(2) Federal management of emergencies and natural 
disasters.
    ``(3) Flood control and improvement of rivers and harbors.
    ``(4) Inland waterways.
    ``(5) Inspection of merchant marine vessels, lights and 
signals, lifesaving equipment, and fire protection on such 
vessels.
    ``(6) Navigation and laws relating thereto, including 
pilotage.
    ``(7) Registering and licensing of vessels and small boats.
    ``(8) Rules and international arrangements to prevent 
collisions at sea.
    ``(9) The Capitol Building and the Senate and House Office 
Buildings.
    ``(10) Construction or maintenance of roads and post roads 
(other than appropriations therefor).
    ``(11) Construction or reconstruction, maintenance, and 
care of buildings and grounds of the Botanic Garden, the 
Library of Congress, and the Smithsonian Institution.
    ``(12) Merchant marine (except for national security 
aspects thereof).
    ``(13) Purchase of sites and construction of post offices, 
customhouses, Federal courthouses, and Government buildings 
within the District of Columbia.
    ``(14) Oil and other pollution of navigable waters, 
including inland, coastal, and ocean waters.
    ``(15) Marine affairs, including coastal zone management, 
as they relate to oil and other pollution of navigable waters.
    ``(16) Public buildings and occupied or improved grounds of 
the United States generally.
    ``(17) Public works for the benefit of navigation, 
including bridges and dams (other than international bridges 
and dams).
    ``(18) Related transportation regulatory agencies (except 
the Transportation Security Administration).
    ``(19) Roads and the safety thereof.
    ``(20) Transportation, including civil aviation, railroads, 
water transportation, transportation safety (except automobile 
safety and transportation security functions of the Department 
of Homeland Security), transportation infrastructure, 
transportation labor, and railroad retirement and unemployment 
(except revenue measures related thereto).
    ``(21) Water power.
                                FOREWORD

    At the outset of the 110th and 111th Congresses, the 
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure developed a 
legislative agenda focused on three primary objectives:
           investing in our nation's infrastructure to 
        restore our economy, relieve congestion, ensure U.S. 
        competitiveness, and improve the daily lives of our 
        citizens;
           ensuring the safety and security of our 
        nation's transportation systems and other critical 
        infrastructure; and
           addressing global climate change and 
        renewing our commitment to clean water, energy 
        independence, and environmental stewardship.
    Over the past two Congresses, the Committee made 
extraordinary progress toward achieving these objectives by 
enacting landmark legislation to: restore the nation's economy 
in the wake of the greatest recession since the Great 
Depression; strengthen pilot qualifications and improve airline 
safety; ensure the safety of freight and passenger railroads; 
invest in developing high-speed rail throughout the nation; 
promote energy efficient transportation and public buildings 
and create incentives for the use of alternative fuel vehicles 
and renewable energy; authorize water resource investments in 
the Water Resources Development Act of 2007 by overriding the 
President's veto for only the 107th time in our nation's 
history; and authorize maritime safety and acquisition reforms 
for the U.S. Coast Guard.
    In total, over the past four years, the Committee 
considered and enacted more bills and resolutions (186 bills 
and resolutions) than at any point in the storied history of 
the Committee or its predecessor committees.
    In the 111th Congress, the Committee on Transportation and 
Infrastructure, in coordination with the Committee on 
Appropriations, developed the American Recovery and 
Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Recovery Act) (P.L. 111-5) to address 
the greatest economic recession since the Great Depression. The 
Recovery Act provided $64.1 billion of infrastructure 
investment for programs within the jurisdiction of the 
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, including: 
$27.5 billion for highways and bridges; $8.4 billion for public 
transit; $9.3 billion for passenger rail; $1.5 billion for 
competitive surface transportation grants; $1.3 billion for 
aviation; $5.26 billion for environmental infrastructure; $4.6 
billion for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; $5.575 billion 
for Federal buildings; $150 million for the Economic 
Development Administration; $210 million for Firefighter 
Assistance Grants; $240 million for Coast Guard facilities and 
bridge alterations; and $100 million for Maritime 
Administration Small Shipyard Grants. The Recovery Act 
generally required these funds to be invested in ready-to-go 
projects and required unprecedented transparency and 
accountability provisions.
    The Committee developed major legislation, H.R. 3371, the 
``Airline Safety and Pilot Training Improvement Act of 2009'', 
to strengthen pilot qualifications and improve airline safety. 
The provisions of this bill were included in Public Law 111-
216, the Airline Safety and Federal Aviation Administration 
Extension Act of 2010. The Committee also developed major 
legislation, H.R. 915, the ``FAA Reauthorization Act of 2009'', 
to reauthorize the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and 
provide $53.5 billion over three years for FAA programs. On May 
21, 2009, the House passed H.R. 915.
    In addition, the Committee developed major legislation, 
H.R. __, the ``Surface Transportation Authorization Act of 
2009'', to reauthorize Federal surface transportation programs 
and provide $450 billion over six years for surface 
transportation programs and $50 billion for development of 
high-speed rail. On June 24, 2009, the Subcommittee reported 
the bill favorably to the Committee by voice vote. No further 
action was taken on this legislation.
    The Committee also developed legislation, contained in 
Title VII of H.R. 3534, the ``Oil Spill Accountability and 
Environmental Protection Act of 2010'', to make several 
critical reforms to the Clean Water Act and the Oil Pollution 
Act of 1990 in response to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill 
disaster. First, this legislation increases the limitations of 
liability for offshore facilities, such as the Deepwater 
Horizon, and vessels as well as the level of financial 
responsibility or insurance coverage (through a certificate of 
financial responsibility or COFR) to more appropriately address 
the potential impacts of a release of oil or hazardous 
substances. Second, Title VII requires the owners or operators 
of facilities and vessels to have adequate oil spill response 
plans, and requires additional transparency, inspection, and 
enforcement of such response plans to limit the potential 
impacts of a release. Finally, the legislation also amends the 
process for review and approval of oil spill dispersants, 
chemicals, or other spill mitigating devices to require 
additional transparency and testing on the toxicity, 
effectiveness, and potential human health or environmental 
impacts of such products before they can be listed for use in 
response to an oil spill. On July 30, 2010, the House passed 
H.R. 3534.
    Finally, the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure 
developed major legislation, Public Law 111-281, the Coast 
Guard Authorization Act of 2010, to reauthorize the Coast Guard 
and make significant improvements to maritime safety and Coast 
Guard operations and acquisitions processes. The legislation 
was the first Coast Guard authorization bill to become law 
since 2006.
    In addition to these legislative achievements, the 
Committee renewed its commitment to actively oversee the 
agencies and programs within the jurisdiction of the Committee. 
The Committee conducted active, in-depth investigations of its 
agencies and programs, and found critical safety lapses and 
identified significant cost savings.
    During the 110th and 111th Congresses, the Committee held 
more hearings and received testimony from more witnesses than 
at any point in the history of the Committee. Over the past 
four years, the Committee held 316 hearings, receiving 
testimony from 2,201 witnesses over approximately 1,028 hours.
    The Committee could not have achieved these extraordinary 
accomplishments without the bipartisan leadership and 
dedication of each of the Members of the Committee, 
particularly Ranking Member John L. Mica, and the Chairs and 
Ranking Members of each of the Subcommittees. The Subcommittee 
Chairs guided dozens of bills through each of their respective 
Subcommittees and conducted the overwhelming majority of the 
oversight hearings. I also thank the staff of the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure for their dedication and 
expertise to carrying out the Committee's agenda.
    It is with great pride and gratitude that I submit the 
Summary of Legislative and Oversight Activities of the 
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure for the 111th 
Congress. This Summary highlights accomplishments that will 
improve the safety, security, and efficiency of our nation's 
transportation and infrastructure for years to come.
                               James L. Oberstar, Chairman,
                    Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.


                                             BILLS ENACTED INTO LAW
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
     Public Law No.                 Date enacted                    Bill No.                    Title
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
P.L. 111-5.............  February 17, 2009................  H.R. 1.................  Making supplemental
                                                                                      appropriations for job
                                                                                      preservation and creation,
                                                                                      infrastructure investment,
                                                                                      energy efficiency and
                                                                                      science, assistance to the
                                                                                      unemployed, and State and
                                                                                      local fiscal
                                                                                      stabilization, for the
                                                                                      fiscal year ending
                                                                                      September 30, 2009, and
                                                                                      for other purposes.
P.L. 111-12............  March 30, 2009...................  H.R. 1512..............  To amend the Internal
                                                                                      Revenue Code of 1986 to
                                                                                      extend the funding and
                                                                                      expenditure authority of
                                                                                      the Airport and Airway
                                                                                      Trust Fund, to amend title
                                                                                      49, United States Code, to
                                                                                      extend authorizations for
                                                                                      the airport improvement
                                                                                      program, and for other
                                                                                      purposes.
P.L. 111-14............  April 23, 2009...................  S. 520.................  A bill to designate the
                                                                                      United States courthouse
                                                                                      under construction at 327
                                                                                      South Church Street,
                                                                                      Rockford, Illinois, as the
                                                                                      ``Stanley J. Roszkowski
                                                                                      United States
                                                                                      Courthouse''.
P.L. 111-34............  June 30, 2009....................  H.R. 813...............  To designate the Federal
                                                                                      building and United States
                                                                                      courthouse located at 306
                                                                                      East Main Street in
                                                                                      Elizabeth City, North
                                                                                      Carolina, as the ``J.
                                                                                      Herbert W. Small Federal
                                                                                      Building and United States
                                                                                      Courthouse''.
P.L. 111-35............  June 30, 2009....................  H.R. 837...............  To designate the Federal
                                                                                      building located at 799
                                                                                      United Nations Plaza in
                                                                                      New York, New York, as the
                                                                                      ``Ronald H. Brown United
                                                                                      States Mission to the
                                                                                      United Nations Building''.
P.L. 111-69............  October 1, 2009..................  H.R. 3607..............  To amend the Internal
                                                                                      Revenue Code of 1986 to
                                                                                      extend the funding and
                                                                                      expenditure authority of
                                                                                      the Airport and Airway
                                                                                      Trust Fund, to amend title
                                                                                      49, United States Code, to
                                                                                      extend authorizations for
                                                                                      the airport improvement
                                                                                      program, and for other
                                                                                      purposes.
P.L. 111-74............  October 19, 2009.................  H.R. 1687..............  To designate the federally
                                                                                      occupied building located
                                                                                      at McKinley Avenue and
                                                                                      Third Street, SW., Canton,
                                                                                      Ohio, as the ``Ralph
                                                                                      Regula Federal Building
                                                                                      and United States
                                                                                      Courthouse''.
P.L. 111-75............  October 19, 2009.................  H.R. 2053..............  To designate the United
                                                                                      States courthouse located
                                                                                      at 525 Magoffin Avenue in
                                                                                      El Paso, Texas, as the
                                                                                      ``Albert Armendariz, Sr.,
                                                                                      United States
                                                                                      Courthouse''.
P.L. 111-76............  October 19, 2009.................  H.R. 2121..............  To authorize the
                                                                                      Administrator of General
                                                                                      Services to convey a
                                                                                      parcel of real property in
                                                                                      Galveston, Texas, to the
                                                                                      Galveston Historical
                                                                                      Foundation.
P.L. 111-77............  October 19, 2009.................  H.R. 2498..............  To designate the Federal
                                                                                      building located at 844
                                                                                      North Rush Street in
                                                                                      Chicago, Illinois, as the
                                                                                      ``William O. Lipinski
                                                                                      Federal Building''.
P.L. 111-78............  October 19, 2009.................  H.R. 2913..............  To designate the United
                                                                                      States courthouse located
                                                                                      at 301 Simonton Street in
                                                                                      Key West, Florida, as the
                                                                                      ``Sidney M. Aronovitz
                                                                                      United States
                                                                                      Courthouse''.
P.L. 111-116...........  December 16, 2009................  H.R. 4217..............  To amend the Internal
                                                                                      Revenue Code of 1986 to
                                                                                      extend the funding and
                                                                                      expenditure authority of
                                                                                      the Airport and Airway
                                                                                      Trust Fund, to amend title
                                                                                      49, United States Code, to
                                                                                      extend authorizations for
                                                                                      the airport improvement
                                                                                      program, and for other
                                                                                      purposes.
P.L. 111-120...........  December 22, 2009................  H.R. 4165..............  To extend through December
                                                                                      31, 2010, the authority of
                                                                                      the Secretary of the Army
                                                                                      to accept and expend funds
                                                                                      contributed by non-Federal
                                                                                      public entities to
                                                                                      expedite the processing of
                                                                                      permits.
P.L. 111-144...........  March 2, 2010....................  H.R. 4691..............  To provide a temporary
                                                                                      extension of certain
                                                                                      programs, and for other
                                                                                      purposes.
P.L. 111-147...........  March 18, 2010...................  H.R. 2847..............  Hiring Incentives to
                                                                                      Restore Employment Act.
P.L. 111-153...........  March 31, 2010...................  H.R. 4957..............  To amend the Internal
                                                                                      Revenue Code of 1986 to
                                                                                      extend the funding and
                                                                                      expenditure authority of
                                                                                      the Airport and Airway
                                                                                      Trust Fund, to amend title
                                                                                      49, United States Code, to
                                                                                      extend authorizations for
                                                                                      the airport improvement
                                                                                      program, and for other
                                                                                      purposes.
P.L. 111-157...........  April 15, 2010...................  H.R. 4851..............  To provide a temporary
                                                                                      extension of certain
                                                                                      programs, and for other
                                                                                      purposes.
P.L. 111-161...........  April 30, 2010...................  H.R. 5147..............  To amend the Internal
                                                                                      Revenue Code of 1986 to
                                                                                      extend the funding and
                                                                                      expenditure authority of
                                                                                      the Airport and Airway
                                                                                      Trust Fund, to amend title
                                                                                      49, United States Code, to
                                                                                      extend authorizations for
                                                                                      the airport improvement
                                                                                      program, and for other
                                                                                      purposes.
P.L. 111-176...........  June 8, 2010.....................  H.R. 5128..............  To designate the United
                                                                                      States Department of the
                                                                                      Interior Building in
                                                                                      Washington, District of
                                                                                      Columbia, as the ``Stewart
                                                                                      Lee Udall Department of
                                                                                      the Interior Building''.
P.L. 111-191...........  June 15, 2010....................  S. 3473................  A bill to amend the Oil
                                                                                      Pollution Act of 1990 to
                                                                                      authorize advances from
                                                                                      Oil Spill Liability Trust
                                                                                      Fund for the Deepwater
                                                                                      Horizon oil spill.
P.L. 111-197...........  July 2, 2010.....................  H.R. 5611..............  To amend the Internal
                                                                                      Revenue Code of 1986 to
                                                                                      extend the funding and
                                                                                      expenditure authority of
                                                                                      the Airport and Airway
                                                                                      Trust Fund, to amend title
                                                                                      49, United States Code, to
                                                                                      extend authorizations for
                                                                                      the airport improvement
                                                                                      program, and for other
                                                                                      purposes.
P.L. 111-207...........  July 27, 2009....................  H.R. 3360..............  To amend title 46, United
                                                                                      States Code, to establish
                                                                                      requirements to ensure the
                                                                                      security and safety of
                                                                                      passengers and crew on
                                                                                      cruise vessels, and for
                                                                                      other purposes.
P.L. 111-215...........  July 30, 2010....................  S. 3372................  A bill to modify the date
                                                                                      on which the Administrator
                                                                                      of the Environmental
                                                                                      Protection Agency and
                                                                                      applicable States may
                                                                                      require permits for
                                                                                      discharges from certain
                                                                                      vessels.
P.L. 111-216...........  August 1, 2010...................  H.R. 5900..............  To amend the Internal
                                                                                      Revenue Code of 1986 to
                                                                                      extend the funding and
                                                                                      expenditure authority of
                                                                                      the Airport and Airway
                                                                                      Trust Fund, to amend title
                                                                                      49, United States Code, to
                                                                                      extend airport improvement
                                                                                      program project grant
                                                                                      authority and to improve
                                                                                      airline safety, and for
                                                                                      other purposes.
P.L. 111-234...........  August 16, 2010..................  H.R. 4275..............  To designate the annex
                                                                                      building under
                                                                                      construction for the
                                                                                      Elbert P. Tuttle United
                                                                                      States Court of Appeals
                                                                                      Building in Atlanta,
                                                                                      Georgia, as the ``John C.
                                                                                      Godbold Federal
                                                                                      Building''.
P.L. 111-243...........  September 30, 2010...............  H.R. 3562..............  An act to designate the
                                                                                      federally occupied
                                                                                      building located at 1220
                                                                                      Echelon Parkway in
                                                                                      Jackson, Mississippi, as
                                                                                      the ``James Chaney, Andrew
                                                                                      Goodman, Michael
                                                                                      Schwerner, and Roy K.
                                                                                      Moore Federal Building''.
P.L. 111-249...........  September 30, 2010...............  H.R. 6190..............  To amend the Internal
                                                                                      Revenue Code of 1986 to
                                                                                      extend the funding and
                                                                                      expenditure authority of
                                                                                      the Airport and Airway
                                                                                      Trust Fund, to amend title
                                                                                      49, United States Code, to
                                                                                      extend the airport
                                                                                      improvement program, and
                                                                                      for other purposes.
P.L. 111-281...........  October 15, 2010.................  H.R. 3619..............  To authorize appropriations
                                                                                      for the Coast Guard for
                                                                                      fiscal year 2010, and for
                                                                                      other purposes.
P.L. 111-297...........  December 14, 2010................  H.R. 4387..............  To designate the Federal
                                                                                      building located at 100
                                                                                      North Palafox Street in
                                                                                      Pensacola, Florida, as the
                                                                                      ``Winston E. Arnow Federal
                                                                                      Building''.
P.L. 111-298...........  December 14, 2010................  H.R. 5651..............  To designate the Federal
                                                                                      building and United States
                                                                                      courthouse located at 515
                                                                                      9th Street in Rapid City,
                                                                                      South Dakota, as the
                                                                                      ``Andrew W. Bogue Federal
                                                                                      Building and United States
                                                                                      Courthouse''.
P.L. 111-299...........  December 14, 2010................  H.R. 5706..............  To designate the building
                                                                                      occupied by the Government
                                                                                      Printing Office located at
                                                                                      31451 East United Avenue
                                                                                      in Pueblo, Colorado, as
                                                                                      the ``Frank Evans
                                                                                      Government Printing Office
                                                                                      Building''.
P.L. 111-301...........  December 14, 2010................  H.R. 5773..............  To designate the Federal
                                                                                      building located at 6401
                                                                                      Security Boulevard in
                                                                                      Baltimore, Maryland,
                                                                                      commonly known as the
                                                                                      Social Security
                                                                                      Administration Operations
                                                                                      Building, as the ``Robert
                                                                                      M. Ball Federal
                                                                                      Building''.
P.L. 111-308...........  December 14, 2010................  S. 3250................  To provide for the training
                                                                                      of Federal building
                                                                                      personnel, and for other
                                                                                      purposes.
P.L. 111-315...........  December 18, 2010................  H.R. 6184..............  To amend the Water
                                                                                      Resources Development Act
                                                                                      of 2000 to extend and
                                                                                      modify the program
                                                                                      allowing the Secretary of
                                                                                      the Army to accept and
                                                                                      expend funds contributed
                                                                                      by non-Federal public
                                                                                      entities to expedite the
                                                                                      evaluation of permits, and
                                                                                      for other purposes.
P.L. 111-326...........  December 22, 2010................  H.R. 5591..............  To designate the airport
                                                                                      traffic control tower
                                                                                      located at Spokane
                                                                                      International Airport in
                                                                                      Spokane, Washington, as
                                                                                      the ``Ray Daves Airport
                                                                                      Traffic Control Tower''.
P.L. 111-329...........  December 22, 2010................  H.R. 6473..............  To amend the Internal
                                                                                      Revenue Code of 1986 to
                                                                                      extend the funding and
                                                                                      expenditure authority of
                                                                                      the Airport and Airway
                                                                                      Trust Fund, to amend title
                                                                                      49, United States Code, to
                                                                                      extend the airport
                                                                                      improvement program, and
                                                                                      for other purposes.
P.L. 111-330...........  December 22, 2010................  H.R. 6516..............  To make technical
                                                                                      corrections to provisions
                                                                                      of law enacted by the
                                                                                      Coast Guard Authorization
                                                                                      Act of 2010.
P.L. 111-    ..........  Presented to the President on      S. 841.................  To direct the Secretary of
                          December 28, 2010.                                          Transportation to study
                                                                                      and establish a motor
                                                                                      vehicle safety standard
                                                                                      that provides for a means
                                                                                      of alerting blind and
                                                                                      other pedestrians of motor
                                                                                      vehicle operation.
P.L. 111-    ..........  Presented to the President on      H.R. 6510..............  To direct the Administrator
                          December 28, 2010.                                          of General Services to
                                                                                      convey a parcel of real
                                                                                      property in Houston,
                                                                                      Texas, to the Military
                                                                                      Museum of Texas, and for
                                                                                      other purposes.
P.L. 111-    ..........  Presented to the President on      H.R. 1746..............  To amend the Robert T.
                          December 28, 2010.                                          Stafford Disaster Relief
                                                                                      and Emergency Assistance
                                                                                      Act to reauthorize the pre-
                                                                                      disaster mitigation
                                                                                      program of the Federal
                                                                                      Emergency Management
                                                                                      Agency.
P.L. 111-    ..........  Presented to the President on      S. 3481................  A bill to amend the Federal
                          December 28, 2010.                                          Water Pollution Control
                                                                                      Act to clarify Federal
                                                                                      responsibility for
                                                                                      stormwater pollution.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                CONCURRENT RESOLUTIONS APPROVED BY BOTH CHAMBERS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Resolution No.                      Title                  House Passage            Senate Passage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
H. Con. Res. 37..................  Authorizing the use of the            March 11, 2009           March 12, 2009
                                    Capitol Grounds for the
                                    Greater Washington Soap
                                    Box Derby.
H. Con. Res. 38..................  Authorizing the use of the            March 11, 2009             May 12, 2009
                                    Capitol Grounds for the
                                    National Peace Officers'
                                    Memorial Service.
H. Con. Res. 39..................  Authorizing the use of the            March 17, 2009           March 17, 2009
                                    Capitol Grounds for the
                                    District of Columbia
                                    Special Olympics Law
                                    Enforcement Torch Run.
H. Con. Res. 171.................  Authorizing the use of the             July 31, 2009           August 5, 2009
                                    Capitol Grounds for an
                                    event to honor military
                                    personnel who have died in
                                    service to the United
                                    States and to acknowledge
                                    the sacrifice of the
                                    families of those
                                    individuals as part of the
                                    National Weekend of
                                    Remembrance.
H. Con. Res. 247.................  Authorizing the use of the               May 5, 2010              May 7, 2010
                                    Capitol Grounds for the
                                    Greater Washington Soap
                                    Box Derby.
H. Con. Res. 263.................  Authorizing the use of the               May 5, 2010              May 7, 2010
                                    Capitol Grounds for the
                                    District of Columbia
                                    Special Olympics Law
                                    Enforcement Torch Run.
H. Con. Res. 264.................  Authorizing the use of the            April 28, 2010           April 29, 2010
                                    Capitol Grounds for the
                                    National Peace Officers'
                                    Memorial Service.
H. Con. Res. 289.................  Directing the Clerk of the             June 30, 2010            July 12, 2010
                                    House of Representatives
                                    to make a technical
                                    correction in the
                                    enrollment of H.R. 3360.
S. Con. Res. 61..................  A concurrent resolution                 May 12, 2010           April 29, 2010
                                    expressing the sense of
                                    the Congress that general
                                    aviation pilots and
                                    industry should be
                                    recognized for the
                                    contributions made in
                                    response to Haiti
                                    earthquake relief efforts.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------



                   BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS THAT PASSED THE HOUSE BUT NOT ACTED ON BY THE SENATE
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                   Bill No.                                      Title                    Date of House Passage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
H.R. 842......................................  To designate the United States                    March 10, 2009
                                                 Courthouse to be constructed in
                                                 Jackson, Mississippi, as the ``R. Jess
                                                 Brown United States Courthouse''.
H.R. 869......................................  To designate the Federal building and             March 10, 2009
                                                 United States courthouse located at
                                                 101 Barr Street in Lexington,
                                                 Kentucky, as the ``Scott Reed Federal
                                                 Building and United States
                                                 Courthouse''.
H.R. 887......................................  To designate the United States                    March 10, 2009
                                                 courthouse located at 131 East 4th
                                                 Street in Davenport, Iowa, as the
                                                 ``James A. Leach United States
                                                 Courthouse''.
H.R. 915......................................  To amend title 49, United States Code,              May 21, 2009
                                                 to authorize appropriations for the
                                                 Federal Aviation Administration for
                                                 fiscal years 2010 through 2012, to
                                                 improve aviation safety and capacity,
                                                 to provide stable funding for the
                                                 national aviation system, and for
                                                 other purposes.
H.R. 1053.....................................  To require the Office of Management and       September 30, 2009
                                                 Budget to prepare a crosscut budget
                                                 for restoration activities in the
                                                 Chesapeake Bay watershed, to require
                                                 the Environmental Protection Agency to
                                                 develop and implement an adaptive
                                                 management plan, and for other
                                                 purposes.
H.R. 1178.....................................  To direct the Comptroller General of                May 12, 2009
                                                 the United States to conduct a study
                                                 on the use of Civil Air Patrol
                                                 personnel and resources to support
                                                 homeland security missions, and for
                                                 other purposes.
H.R. 1262.....................................  To amend the Federal Water Pollution              March 12, 2009
                                                 Control Act to authorize
                                                 appropriations for State water
                                                 pollution control revolving funds, and
                                                 for other purposes.
H.R. 1665.....................................  To structure Coast Guard acquisition               July 29, 2009
                                                 processes and policies, and for other
                                                 purposes.
H.R. 1700.....................................  To authorize the Administrator of               October 14, 2009
                                                 General Services to convey a parcel of
                                                 real property in the District of
                                                 Columbia to provide for the
                                                 establishment of a National Women's
                                                 History Museum.
H.R. 1747.....................................  To authorize appropriations for the               April 27, 2009
                                                 design, acquisition, and construction
                                                 of a combined buoy tender-icebreaker
                                                 to replace icebreaking capacity on the
                                                 Great Lakes.
H.R. 1854.....................................  To amend the Water Resources                    December 8, 2009
                                                 Development Act of 1992 to modify an
                                                 environmental infrastructure project
                                                 for Big Bear Lake, California.
H.R. 2093.....................................  To amend the Federal Water Pollution               July 29, 2009
                                                 Control Act relating to beach
                                                 monitoring, and for other purposes.
H.R. 2423.....................................  A bill to designate the Federal                 October 15, 2009
                                                 building and United States courthouse
                                                 located at 1300 Victoria Street in
                                                 Laredo, Texas, as the ``George P.
                                                 Kazen Federal Building and United
                                                 States Courthouse''.
H.R. 2454.....................................  To create clean energy jobs, achieve               June 26, 2009
                                                 energy independence, reduce global
                                                 warming pollution and transition to a
                                                 clean energy economy.
H.R. 2651.....................................  To amend title 46, United States Code,          October 14, 2009
                                                 to direct the Secretary of
                                                 Transportation to establish a maritime
                                                 career training loan program, and for
                                                 other purposes.
H.R. 2843.....................................  To provide for the joint appointment of         February 3, 2010
                                                 the Architect of the Capitol by the
                                                 Speaker of the House of
                                                 Representatives, the President pro
                                                 tempore of the Senate, the majority
                                                 and minority leaders of the House of
                                                 Representatives and Senate, the chair
                                                 and ranking minority member of the
                                                 Committee on House Administration of
                                                 the House of Representatives, the
                                                 chair and ranking minority member of
                                                 the Committee on Transportation and
                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                 Representatives, the chair and ranking
                                                 minority member of the Committee on
                                                 Rules and Administration of the
                                                 Senate, the chairs and ranking
                                                 minority members of the Committees on
                                                 Appropriations of the House of
                                                 Representatives and Senate, and two
                                                 other designated members of the
                                                 Senate, and for other purposes.
H.R. 3193.....................................  To designate the United States                 September 9, 2009
                                                 courthouse under construction at 101
                                                 South United States Route 1 in Fort
                                                 Pierce, Florida, as the ``Alto Lee
                                                 Adams, Sr., United States Courthouse''.
H.R. 3224.....................................  To authorize the Board of Regents of            December 8, 2009
                                                 the Smithsonian Institution to plan,
                                                 design, and construct a vehicle
                                                 maintenance building at the vehicle
                                                 maintenance branch of the Smithsonian
                                                 Institution located in Suitland,
                                                 Maryland, and for other purposes.
H.R. 3305.....................................  To designate the Federal building and          November 17, 2009
                                                 United States courthouse located at
                                                 224 South Boulder Avenue in Tulsa,
                                                 Oklahoma, as the ``H. Dale Cook
                                                 Federal Building and United States
                                                 Courthouse''.
H.R. 3371.....................................  To amend title 49, United States Code,          October 14, 2009
                                                 to improve airline safety and pilot
                                                 training, and for other purposes.
H.R. 3427.....................................  To amend title 23, United States Code,        September 28, 2010
                                                 to protect States that have in effect
                                                 laws or orders with respect to pay to
                                                 play reform, and for other purposes.
H.R. 3617.....................................  To provide an extension of Federal-aid        September 23, 2009
                                                 highway, highway safety, motor carrier
                                                 safety, transit, and other programs
                                                 funded out of the Highway Trust Fund
                                                 pending enactment of a multiyear law
                                                 reauthorizing such programs.
H.R. 3618.....................................  To provide for implementation of the           November 17, 2009
                                                 International Convention on the
                                                 Control of Harmful Anti-Fouling
                                                 Systems on Ships, 2001, and for other
                                                 purposes.
H.R. 3804.....................................  To make technical corrections to                December 7, 2009
                                                 various Acts affecting the National
                                                 Park Service, to extend, amend, or
                                                 establish certain National Park
                                                 Service authorities, and for other
                                                 purposes.
H.R. 3820.....................................  To reauthorize Federal natural hazards             March 2, 2010
                                                 reduction programs, and for other
                                                 purposes.
H.R. 3960.....................................  To clarify the existing authority of,         September 28, 2010
                                                 and as necessary provide express
                                                 authorization for, public authorities
                                                 to offer discounts in transportation
                                                 tolls to captive tollpayers, and for
                                                 other purposes.
H.R. 4714.....................................  To amend title 49, United States Code,        September 28, 2010
                                                 to authorize appropriations for the
                                                 National Transportation Safety Board
                                                 for fiscal years 2011 through 2014,
                                                 and for other purposes.
H.R. 4715.....................................  To amend the Federal Water Pollution              April 15, 2010
                                                 Control Act to reauthorize the
                                                 National Estuary Program, and for
                                                 other purposes.
H.R. 4786.....................................  To provide authority to compensate                March 10, 2010
                                                 Federal employees for the 2-day period
                                                 in which authority to make
                                                 expenditures from the Highway Trust
                                                 Fund lapsed, and for other purposes.
H.R. 4915.....................................  To amend the Internal Revenue Code of             March 24, 2010
                                                 1986 to extend the funding and
                                                 expenditure authority of the Airport
                                                 and Airway Trust Fund, to amend title
                                                 49, United States Code, to extend
                                                 authorizations for the airport
                                                 improvement program, and for other
                                                 purposes.
H.R. 5266.....................................  To extend the final report deadline and            July 20, 2010
                                                 otherwise reauthorize the National
                                                 Commission on Children and Disasters.
H.R. 5282.....................................  To provide funds to the Army Corps of         September 15, 2010
                                                 Engineers to hire veterans and members
                                                 of the Armed Forces to assist the
                                                 Corps with curation and historic
                                                 preservation activities, and for other
                                                 purposes.
H.R. 5301.....................................  To extend the period during which the              July 20, 2010
                                                 Administrator of the Environmental
                                                 Protection Agency and States are
                                                 prohibited from requiring a permit
                                                 under section 402 of the Federal Water
                                                 Pollution Control Act for certain
                                                 discharges that are incidental to
                                                 normal operation of vessels, to
                                                 reauthorize the National Estuary
                                                 Program, and for other purposes.
H.R. 5481.....................................  To give subpoena power to the National             June 23, 2010
                                                 Commission on the BP Deepwater Horizon
                                                 Oil Spill and Offshore Drilling.
H.R. 5503.....................................  To revise laws regarding liability in               July 1, 2010
                                                 certain civil actions arising from
                                                 maritime incidents, and for other
                                                 purposes.
H.R. 5545.....................................  To deauthorize a portion of the project            July 20, 2010
                                                 for navigation, Potomac River,
                                                 Washington Channel, District of
                                                 Columbia, under the jurisdiction of
                                                 the Corps of Engineers.
H.R. 5604.....................................  To rescind amounts authorized for                  July 20, 2010
                                                 certain surface transportation
                                                 programs.
H.R. 5717.....................................  To authorize the Board of Regents of          September 28, 2010
                                                 the Smithsonian Institution to plan,
                                                 design, and construct a facility and
                                                 to enter into agreements relating to
                                                 education programs at the National
                                                 Zoological Park facility in Front
                                                 Royal, Virginia, and for other
                                                 purposes.
H.R. 5730.....................................  To rescind earmarks for certain surface            July 27, 2010
                                                 transportation projects.
H.R. 5825.....................................  To review, update, and revise the                  July 27, 2010
                                                 factors to measure the severity,
                                                 magnitude, and impact of a disaster
                                                 and to evaluate the need for
                                                 assistance to individuals and
                                                 households.
H.R. 6008.....................................  To ensure telephonic notice of certain        September 28, 2010
                                                 incidents involving hazardous liquid
                                                 and gas pipeline facilities, and for
                                                 other purposes.
H.R. 6016.....................................  To provide for a GAO investigation and        September 28, 2010
                                                 audit of the operations of the fund
                                                 created by BP to compensate persons
                                                 affected by the Gulf oil spill.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                 COMMITTEE VIEWS AND ESTIMATES REPORTS

    Pursuant to section 301(d) of the Congressional Budget Act 
and clause 4(f) of Rule X of the Rules of the House, the 
Committee submitted its Views and Estimates Reports to the 
Committee on the Budget for fiscal years 2010 and 2011 on March 
10, 2009, and March 4, 2010, respectively.
    These reports, intended to provide the Budget Committee 
with an early and comprehensive indication of the Committee's 
legislative plans, contained estimates of the new budget 
authority to be authorized in legislation under the Committee's 
jurisdiction which would become effective during the next 
fiscal year.

    Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Public Laws and 
                              Resolutions

    The Full Committee chapter of the Summary of Legislative 
and Oversight Activities of the Committee on Transportation and 
Infrastructure only includes the public laws and resolutions 
which involve the jurisdiction of multiple subcommittees. Other 
public laws and resolutions are included in the appropriate 
subcommittee chapters of this report.

                             Full Committee

             American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009

                            Public Law 111-5

                                (H.R. 1)

                           February 17, 2009

    The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (Recovery Act) 
(P.L. 111-5) provided $64.1 billion of infrastructure 
investment for programs within the jurisdiction of the 
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, including: 
$27.5 billion for highways and bridges; $8.4 billion for public 
transit; $9.3 billion for passenger rail; $1.5 billion for 
competitive surface transportation grants; $1.3 billion for 
aviation; $5.26 billion for environmental infrastructure; $4.6 
billion for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; $5.575 billion 
for Federal buildings; $150 million for the Economic 
Development Administration; $210 million for Firefighter 
Assistance Grants; $240 million for Coast Guard facilities and 
bridge alterations; and $100 million for Maritime 
Administration Small Shipyard Grants.
    The Recovery Act generally required these funds to be 
invested in ready-to-go projects. Section 1602 of the Recovery 
Act required States and other grant recipients to give 
preference to projects that could be started and completed 
expeditiously, including a goal of using at least 50 percent of 
the funds for projects that could be initiated not later than 
120 days (June 17, 2009) after the date of enactment. In 
addition, several transportation programs had specific 
deadlines to invest a percentage of the funds. For example, for 
Federal-aid Highway formula funds, 50 percent of State-
administered funds had to be obligated within 120 days (June 
30, 2009) of the date of apportionment and all funds had to be 
obligated within one year (March 2, 2010) of the date of 
apportionment. For transit formula grants, 50 percent of funds 
had to be obligated within 180 days (September 1, 2009) of the 
date of apportionment and all funds had to be obligated within 
one year (March 5, 2010) of the date of apportionment. Funding 
provided for passenger rail also had to be obligated by a 
specified date. The $8 billion provided for development of 
high-speed and intercity passenger rail must be obligated by 
September 30, 2014, and the $1.3 billion provided for capital 
improvements to the National Railroad Passenger Corporation 
(Amtrak) had to be obligated by September 30, 2010, with the 
exception of $5 million provided to the Amtrak Office of 
Inspector General which remains available through September 30, 
2013.
    The Recovery Act created ``green collar'' jobs and invested 
in projects that decreased our dependence on foreign oil and 
addressed global climate change. The Act provided $4.5 billion 
for High-Performance Green Federal buildings to fund projects 
that incorporate energy and water conservation elements, such 
as installing photovoltaic roofs and geothermal technology. In 
addition, the Recovery Act provided a significant investment in 
public transit, high-speed rail, intercity passenger rail, and 
Amtrak projects to provide alternatives to traveling by car, 
and help public transit and intercity passenger rail providers 
increase the percentage of their fleets that are alternative 
fuel vehicles. Finally, the Recovery Act directed that 20 
percent of each State's Clean Water State Revolving Fund 
allotment be used for investments in energy and water efficient 
techniques and technologies (i.e., green infrastructure). The 
Recovery Act also required the steel, iron, and manufactured 
goods for these projects to be produced in the United States.
    The Recovery Act required the Governor of each State to 
certify that: the State would request and use funds provided by 
the Recovery Act and the funds would be used to create jobs and 
promote economic growth; the State would maintain its effort 
with regard to State funding for transportation projects; and 
the Governor accepted responsibility that the infrastructure 
investment is an appropriate use of taxpayer dollars.
    Finally, the Recovery Act ensured transparency and 
accountability by including regular reporting requirements to 
track the use of the funds, State investments, and the 
estimated number of jobs created or sustained. Pursuant to 
section 1512 of the Act, States and other direct grant 
recipients provided quarterly reports (beginning October 10, 
2009) to the Federal agency that provided the funds on the 
total amount of recovery funds received; the amount of such 
funds that were expended or obligated; a detailed list of all 
projects or activities for which recovery funds were expended 
or obligated, including the name and description of the 
project, an evaluation of the completion status of the project, 
and an estimate of the number of jobs created or sustained by 
the project; and, for infrastructure investments made by State 
and local governments, the purpose, total cost, and rationale 
of the agency for funding the infrastructure investment. This 
information was made publicly available through Recovery.gov.
    Section 1201 of the Recovery Act required additional 
reporting requirements for funds administered by the U.S. 
Department of Transportation (DOT). Under this provision, each 
State and other grant recipient submitted periodic reports to 
DOT on the use of Recovery Act funds provided for highway, 
public transit, rail, surface transportation, airport, and 
maritime programs. The States and other grant recipients 
reported: the amount of Federal funds obligated and outlayed; 
the number of projects that have been put out to bid, and the 
amount of Federal funds associated with such projects; the 
number of projects for which contracts have been awarded, and 
the amount of Federal funds associated with such projects; the 
number of projects for which work has begun under such 
contracts and the amount of Federal funds associated with such 
contracts; the number of projects for which work has been 
completed under such contracts and the amount of Federal funds 
associated with such contracts; the number of direct, on-
project jobs created or sustained by the Federal funds provided 
and, to the extent possible, the estimated indirect jobs 
created or sustained in the associated supplying industries, 
including the number of job-years created and the total 
increase in employment since the date of enactment; and 
information tracking the actual aggregate expenditures by each 
grant recipient from state sources for projects eligible for 
funding under the program during the period from the date of 
enactment through September 30, 2010, compared to the level of 
expenditures that were planned to occur during such period as 
of the date of enactment.

 To Amend the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 To Authorize Advances From Oil 
     Spill Liability Trust Fund for the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill


                           Public Law 111-191


                               (S. 3473)


                             June 15, 2010

    This law amends the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 to exempt 
advances to the Coast Guard in connection with the explosion 
on, and sinking of, the mobile offshore drilling unit Deepwater 
Horizon from the requirement that amounts in the Oil Spill 
Liability Trust Fund (Fund) be available only as provided in 
annual appropriations acts. P.L. 111-191 limits such advances 
to a maximum of $100 million each, with the total amount for 
all advances subject to the limits of existing law (i.e., not 
to exceed $1 billion for any single incident and $500 million 
for natural resource damage assessments and claims for any 
single incident, provided that, except in the case of payments 
of removal costs, an advance may be made only if the amount in 
the Fund after such advance will not be less than $30 million). 
The Coast Guard is required to notify Congress within seven 
days of the amount advanced and the facts and circumstances 
necessitating the advance.

  Ike Skelton National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2011


                           Public Law 111-__


                              (H.R. 6523)


                              January 2011


                                AVIATION

    Section 358 requires the Secretary of Defense to take 
certain actions to expedite Department of Defense (DOD) review 
of new infrastructure projects that may have an adverse impact 
on military operations and readiness. Specifically, this 
requires the designation of a senior official and a lead 
organization at DOD to coordinate the Department's review of 
applications for projects filed with the Secretary of 
Transportation pursuant to section 44718 of title 49, United 
States Code (regarding the impact of the construction, 
alteration, establishment, or expansion, of a structure that 
may result in an obstruction of the navigable airspace or an 
interference with air navigation facilities and equipment or 
the navigable airspace). Within 180 days, the designated 
official and lead organization at DOD must: conduct a 
preliminary review and assessment of any pending project 
applications; develop an integrated review process to ensure 
timely notification and consideration of project applications 
that may have an adverse impact on military operations and 
readiness; establish procedures for DOD to coordinate 
consideration of and response to a request for a review 
received from State and local officials or renewable energy 
project developers; and develop procedures for conducting early 
outreach to parties carrying out such projects. DOD is required 
to have a strategy in place within 270 days to take the same 
steps with respect to any future project applications filed 
with the Department of Transportation (DOT). For projects where 
DOD is concerned about potential impacts on military readiness, 
this section requires DOD to conduct its hazard assessment 
within 30 days of receiving an application from DOT. This 
section clarifies that the DOD hazard assessment shall not be 
considered a substitute for any assessment or determination 
required by the Federal Aviation Administration under current 
law.

                    WATER RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENT

    Sections 311 and 312 provide the Secretary of Defense the 
authority to transfer funds to the Hazardous Substance 
Superfund. Section 311 authorizes a reimbursement of the 
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for costs incurred 
related to response activities performed at the Twin Cities 
Army Ammunition Plant, Minnesota. Section 312 authorizes funds 
to pay a penalty assessed by the EPA against Naval Air Station, 
Brunswick, Maine, for the failure of the Navy to sample certain 
monitoring wells in a timely manner.
    Section 2815 requires the Secretary of Defense, within 270 
days, to conduct a study relating to the presence of unexploded 
ordnance in a portion of the former bombardment area at Culebra 
Island, Puerto Rico. The Secretary is specifically directed to 
examine any threats to public health or safety and the 
environment from unexploded ordnance.
    Section 2822 authorizes the Secretary of Defense to convey 
to the Guam Waterworks Authority all right, title, and interest 
of the United States in and to the water and wastewater 
treatment utility systems on Guam, including the Fena 
Reservoir, for the purpose of establishing an integrated water 
and wastewater treatment system on Guam.

                COAST GUARD AND MARITIME TRANSPORTATION

    The bill also contains several sections affecting the 
United States Coast Guard, including provisions that increase 
the annual pay and alter benefits eligibility for Coast Guard 
men and women.

        National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010


                           Public Law 111-84


                              (H.R. 2647)


                            October 28, 2009


                                AVIATION

    Section 935 requires the Secretary of Transportation and 
the Secretary of Defense to create a joint plan to accommodate 
Department of Defense (DOD) unmanned aircraft systems in the 
national airspace.

                COAST GUARD AND MARITIME TRANSPORTATION

    Section 601 authorizes a 3.4 percent increase in basic pay 
for members of the uniformed services, including the Coast 
Guard.
    Section 3505 requires the Secretary of Defense and the 
Secretary of the Department in which the Coast Guard is 
operating to prescribe non-lethal defense measures to defend 
against piracy, and to require that U.S.-flagged vessels 
participating in the Maritime Security Program carrying DOD 
cargo and operating in an area designated by the Coast Guard as 
an area of high risk of piracy be equipped with such measures.
    Section 3512 directs the Secretary of Transportation, 
through the Maritime Administrator, to establish a port 
infrastructure development program and a port infrastructure 
development fund. The provision expressly prohibits the 
transfer of highway and public transit funds (made available 
under title 23 or chapter 53 of title 49, United States Code) 
to the port infrastructure development fund, except under very 
limited circumstances.
    Section 3515 authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to 
establish and implement a short sea transportation grant 
program for the development of marine highways.
    Section 3516 requires the Secretary of Transportation to 
expand the Marine View system, an information system containing 
data on the nation's marine transportation system, which is 
defined as the navigable water transportation system of the 
U.S. including vessels, ports, shipyards, and vessel repair 
facilities.

                    WATER RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENT

    Section 315 authorizes the Secretary of Defense to transfer 
$68,623 into the Hazardous Substance Superfund (Superfund) to 
reimburse the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for costs 
incurred overseeing a remediation at the Former Nansemond 
Ordnance Depot Site, Suffolk, Virginia.
    Section 2860 authorizes the Secretary of the Air Force to 
convey land at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas in exchange for 
real property adjacent to the property.

     Supporting the Goals and Ideals of National Public Works Week


                             (H. Res. 313)


                              May 5, 2009

    H. Res. 313 expresses support for the goals and ideals of 
National Public Works Week. This resolution recognizes and 
celebrates the important contributions that public works 
professionals make to improve the public infrastructure of the 
United States.

  Expressing the Sense of the House of Representatives Regarding the 
 Terrorist Attacks Launched Against the United States on September 11, 
                                  2001


                             (H. Res. 722)


                           September 9, 2009

    H. Res. 722 recognizes September 11 as both a day to mourn 
and remember those taken from their loved ones and fellow 
citizens, and a day for the people of the United States to 
recommit to the nation and to each other. The resolution also 
states that the U.S. House of Representatives extends its 
deepest sympathies to the friends, families, and loved ones of 
the innocent victims of the September 11, 2001 terrorist 
attacks; honors the heroic service and sacrifices of first 
responders, law enforcement personnel, state and local 
officials, volunteers, and others who aided the victims and, in 
so doing, bravely risked and often sacrificed their own lives 
and health; and expresses gratitude to the foreign leaders and 
citizens of all nations who continue to stand in solidarity 
with the United States against the international scourge of 
terrorism. The resolution also asserts, in the strongest 
possible terms, that the fight against terrorism is not a war 
on any nation, any people, or any faith; recognizes the heroic 
service of United States personnel, including members of the 
United States Armed Forces, United States intelligence 
agencies, and the United States diplomatic service, and their 
families, who have sacrificed much, including their lives and 
health, to defend their country against terrorists; and that 
the U.S. House of Representatives will continue to take 
whatever actions are appropriate to defend the people of the 
United States and to identify, intercept, and defeat 
terrorists, including providing the United States Armed Forces, 
United States intelligence agencies, and the United States 
diplomatic service with the resources and support to 
effectively accomplish this mission. The resolution calls on 
all Americans to renew their devotion to the universal ideals 
that make the nation great: freedom, pluralism, equality, and 
the rule of law.

Honoring and Celebrating the Contributions of African-Americans to the 
         Transportation and Infrastructure of the United States


                             (H. Res. 1085)


                           February 24, 2010

    H. Res. 1085 supports the goals and ideals of National 
African American History Month; honors and celebrates the 
important contributions that African-Americans have made 
throughout history to the transportation and infrastructure of 
the United States; and urges citizens and communities 
throughout the United States to join with representatives of 
the Federal Government to recognize the substantial 
contributions that African-Americans have made and continue to 
make to the nation's transportation and infrastructure systems.

  Expressing the Sense of the House of Representatives Regarding the 
 Terrorist Attacks Launched Against the United States on September 11, 
                                  2001


                             (H. Res. 1610)


                           September 15, 2010

    H. Res. 1610 recognizes September 11 as both a day to mourn 
and remember those taken from their loved ones and fellow 
citizens, and a day for the people of the United States to 
recommit to the nation and to each other. The resolution also 
states that the U.S. House of Representatives extends its 
deepest sympathies to the friends, families, and loved ones of 
the innocent victims of the September 11, 2001, terrorist 
attacks; honors the heroic service and sacrifices of first 
responders, law enforcement personnel, State and local 
officials, volunteers, and others who aided the victims and, in 
so doing, bravely risked and often sacrificed their own lives 
and health; and expresses gratitude to the foreign leaders and 
citizens of all nations who continue to stand in solidarity 
with the United States against the international scourge of 
terrorism. The resolution also: recognizes the heroic service 
of United States personnel, including members of the Armed 
Forces, intelligence agencies, the diplomatic service, the law 
enforcement and homeland security communities, and their 
families, who have sacrificed much, including their lives and 
health, to defend their country against terrorists; states that 
the U.S. House of Representatives vows that it will continue to 
take whatever actions are appropriate to defend the people of 
the United States and to identify, intercept, and defeat 
terrorists, including providing the Armed Forces, intelligence 
agencies, the diplomatic service, and the law enforcement and 
homeland security communities with the resources and support 
necessary to effectively accomplish this mission; and reaffirms 
that the American people will never forget the sacrifices made 
on and since September 11, 2001.

                                Aviation


  Airline Safety and Federal Aviation Administration Extension Act of 
                                  2010


                           Public Law 111-216


                              (H.R. 5900)


                          (See also H.R. 3371)


                             August 1, 2010

    The most recent long-term Federal Aviation Administration 
(FAA) reauthorization act, Vision 100--Century of Aviation 
Reauthorization Act (Vision 100) (P.L. 108-176), expired 
September 30, 2007. In 2009, the House passed H.R. 915, the 
``FAA Reauthorization Act of 2009''. In March 2010, the Senate 
passed its own comprehensive FAA reauthorization act. Pending 
final enactment of a long-term reauthorization bill, Congress 
has passed a series of short-term acts extending the FAA's 
authority to administer aviation programs and to receive tax 
proceeds. The authority extended by a prior extension act, P.L. 
111-197, expired August 1, 2010. Public Law 111-216 extended 
that authority through September 30, 2010.
    In addition, the law incorporates the provisions of H.R. 
3371, the ``Airline Safety and Pilot Training Improvement Act 
of 2009''. These provisions require meaningful improvements to 
the safety of U.S. airline operations. The law increases pilot 
training, qualifications, screening and professional 
development. It establishes an FAA Task Force that will 
identify aviation industry best practices regarding: pilot 
training, pilot professional standards, and inter-carrier 
information sharing, mentoring and other safety-related 
practices. In addition, the law requires the FAA to ensure that 
pilots are trained on stall recovery and upset recovery, and 
that airlines provide remedial training. The law mandates that 
the FAA convene a multidisciplinary panel on pilot training for 
stick pusher operations (which pulls an aircraft out of a 
stall), and to implement the recommendations of the panel. 
Further, it requires the Secretary of Transportation to provide 
an annual report to Congress on how the agency is addressing 
each open National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) 
recommendation pertaining to part 121 (commercial) air 
carriers.
    The law requires airline pilots to hold an Airline 
Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate, which requires a 
prerequisite of 1,500 flight hours. Additionally, the law 
mandates that the FAA raise other minimum requirements for the 
ATP certificate, to include training to function effectively in 
an air carrier operational environment; adverse weather 
conditions, including icing; high altitude operations; and a 
multi-pilot crew. It also enables the FAA to consider allowing 
certain academic training to be counted towards the 1,500-hour 
ATP certificate requirement. The law establishes comprehensive 
pre-employment screening of prospective pilots and establishes 
a pilot records database to provide airlines with fast, 
electronic access to a pilot's comprehensive record. In 
addition, the law requires the FAA to convene a 
multidisciplinary panel on pilot training for weather events.
    To address issues related to pilot fatigue, the law directs 
the FAA to update and implement new pilot flight- and duty-time 
rules and fatigue risk management plans to more adequately 
track scientific research in the field of fatigue. The law also 
studies the impact of pilots' commuting practices on fatigue 
and provides preliminary results to the FAA to be considered as 
part of the flight- and duty-time rulemaking.
    The law emphasizes the importance of voluntary safety 
programs, which create a partnership between pilots and airline 
management to voluntarily disclose safety problems without fear 
of punishment. It directs the FAA to develop and implement a 
plan to facilitate the establishment of an Aviation Safety 
Action Program and a Flight Operational Quality Assurance 
program by all commercial airlines and their unions. The law 
also requires the FAA to report on several of its safety 
programs, including an analysis of which airlines are using the 
programs; how the FAA will expand the use of the programs; and 
how the FAA is using data from the programs as safety analysis 
and oversight tools for aviation safety inspectors.
    The law directs the Government Accountability Office (GAO) 
to conduct a study of: pilot academic training requirements; 
pilot education provided by accredited two- and four-year 
colleges/universities; foreign academic requirements; the FAA's 
oversight of flight schools; and student loan options available 
to student pilots. In addition, the law requires the Department 
of Transportation Inspector General (DOT IG) to study the FAA's 
safety oversight tools and resources used to oversee regional 
airlines. To enhance consumer transparency, the law mandates 
that Internet websites that sell airline tickets disclose to 
the purchaser on the first page of the website the air carrier 
that operates each segment of the flight.

           Airport and Airway Extension Act of 2010, Part IV


                           Public Law 111-329


                              (H.R. 6473)


                           December 22, 2010

    The most recent long-term FAA reauthorization act, Vision 
100, expired September 30, 2007. In 2009, the House passed H.R. 
915, the ``FAA Reauthorization Act of 2009''. In March 2010, 
the Senate passed its own comprehensive FAA reauthorization 
act. As of December 2, 2010, the House and Senate have not been 
able to resolve the differences between both bills.
    Pending final enactment of a long-term reauthorization 
bill, Congress has passed a series of short-term acts extending 
the FAA's authority to administer aviation programs and to 
receive tax proceeds. The authority extended by a prior 
extension act, P.L. 111-249, expires December 31, 2010. Because 
work to reconcile the long-term bills passed by the House and 
Senate may not be completed before the current authority for 
aviation programs expires, Public Law 111-329 extends that 
authority through March 31, 2011.
    The Airport and Airway Extension Act of 2010, Part IV (P.L. 
111-329) extends the authorization of appropriations for 
aviation programs; excise taxes on aviation fuels and air 
transportation of persons and property; and the expenditure 
authority for the Airport and Airway Trust Fund through March 
31, 2011. This legislation also extends through March 31, 2011, 
various airport development projects, including: (1) the pilot 
program for passenger facility fees at nonhub airports; (2) 
small airport grants for airports located in the Marshall 
Islands, Micronesia, and Palau; (3) state and local airport 
land use compatibility projects; (4) the authority of the 
Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority to apply for an 
airport development grant and impose a passenger facility fee; 
(5) the temporary increase to 95 percent in the government 
share of certain Airport Improvement Program (AIP) project 
costs; and (6) Midway Island airport development. It also 
extends through March 31, 2011, AIP projects and project grant 
authority, as well as the U.S. Department of Transportation 
(DOT) insurance coverage for domestic and foreign-flag air 
carriers. Air carrier liability limits for injuries to 
passengers resulting from acts of terrorism are extended 
through June 30, 2011.

           Airport and Airway Extension Act of 2010, Part III


                           Public Law 111-249


                              (H.R. 6190)


                           September 30, 2010

    The most recent long-term FAA reauthorization act, Vision 
100, expired September 30, 2007. In 2009, the House passed H.R. 
915, the ``FAA Reauthorization Act of 2009''. On March 22, 
2010, the Senate passed H.R. 1586, its own comprehensive 
reauthorization bill. As of September 30, 2010, however, both 
the House and Senate had not yet enacted reconciled, long-term 
FAA reauthorization legislation.
    Pending both chambers' passage of a long-term 
reauthorization bill, Congress has passed a series of short-
term acts extending the FAA's authority to administer aviation 
programs and to receive tax proceeds. The authority extended by 
a prior extension act, P.L. 111-216, expired September 30, 
2010. Public Law 111-249 extended that authority through 
December 31, 2010.

           Airport and Airway Extension Act of 2010, Part II


                           Public Law 111-197


                              (H.R. 5611)


                              July 2, 2010

    The most recent long-term FAA reauthorization act, Vision 
100, expired September 30, 2007. In 2009, the House passed H.R. 
915, the ``FAA Reauthorization Act of 2009''. In March, the 
Senate passed its own comprehensive FAA reauthorization act. 
Pending final enactment of a long-term reauthorization bill, 
Congress has passed a series of short-term acts extending the 
FAA's authority to administer aviation programs and to receive 
tax proceeds. The authority extended by a prior extension act, 
P.L. 111-197, expired July 3, 2010. Public Law 111-197 extended 
that authority through August 1, 2010.

                Airport and Airway Extension Act of 2010


                           Public Law 111-161


                              (H.R. 5147)


                             April 30, 2010

    The most recent long-term FAA reauthorization act, Vision 
100, expired September 30, 2007. In 2009, the House passed H.R. 
915, the ``FAA Reauthorization Act of 2009''. In March, the 
Senate passed its own comprehensive FAA reauthorization act. 
Pending final enactment of a long-term reauthorization bill, 
Congress has passed a series of short-term acts extending the 
FAA's authority to administer aviation programs and to receive 
tax proceeds. The authority extended by a prior extension act, 
P.L. 111-153, expired April 30, 2010. Public Law 111-161 
extended that authority for another two months, through July 3, 
2010.

         Federal Aviation Administration Extension Act of 2010


                           Public Law 111-153


                              (H.R. 4957)


                             March 31, 2010

    The most recent long-term FAA reauthorization act, Vision 
100, expired September 30, 2007. In 2009, the House passed H.R. 
915, the ``FAA Reauthorization Act of 2009''. On March 22, 
2010, the Senate passed H.R. 1586, its own comprehensive 
reauthorization bill. Pending both chambers' passage of a long-
term reauthorization bill, Congress has passed a series of 
short-term acts extending the FAA's authority to administer 
aviation programs and to receive tax proceeds. The authority 
extended by a prior extension act, P.L. 111-116, expired on 
March 31, 2010. Public Law 111-153 extended the FAA's necessary 
authority through April 30, 2010.

Fiscal Year 2010 Federal Aviation Administration Extension Act, Part II


                           Public Law 111-116


                              (H.R. 4217)


                           December 16, 2009

    The most recent long-term FAA reauthorization act, Vision 
100, expired September 30, 2007. In 2009, the House passed H.R. 
915, the ``FAA Reauthorization Act of 2009''. Pending 
completion of a long-term reauthorization bill, Congress has 
passed a series of short-term acts extending the FAA's 
authority to administer aviation programs and to receive tax 
proceeds. The authority extended by a prior extension act, P.L. 
111-69, expired on December 31, 2010. Public Law 111-116 
extended the FAA's necessary authority through March 31, 2010.

     Fiscal Year 2010 Federal Aviation Administration Extension Act


                           Public Law 111-69


                              (H.R. 3607)


                            October 1, 2009

    The most recent long-term FAA reauthorization act, Vision 
100, expired September 30, 2007. In 2009, the House passed H.R. 
915, the ``FAA Reauthorization Act of 2009''. Pending 
completion of a long-term reauthorization bill, Congress has 
passed a series of short-term acts extending the FAA's 
authority to administer aviation programs and to receive tax 
proceeds. The authority extended by a prior extension act, P.L. 
111-12, expired October 31, 2010. Public Law 111-69 extended 
the FAA's necessary authority through December 31, 2010.

         Federal Aviation Administration Extension Act of 2009


                           Public Law 111-12


                              (H.R. 1512)


                             March 30, 2009

    The Federal Aviation Administration Extension Act of 2009 
(P.L. 111-12) extends the authorization of appropriations for 
aviation programs; excise taxes on aviation fuels and air 
transportation of persons and property; and the expenditure 
authority for the Airport and Airway Trust Fund through fiscal 
year (FY) 2009. This legislation also extends through FY 2009 
various airport development projects, including: (1) the pilot 
program for passenger facility fees at nonhub airports; (2) 
small airport grants for airports located in the Marshall 
Islands, Micronesia, and Palau; (3) state and local airport 
land use compatibility projects; (4) the authority of the 
Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority to apply for an 
airport development grant and impose a passenger facility fee; 
(5) the temporary increase to 95 percent in the government 
share of certain AIP project costs; and (6) Midway Island 
airport development. It also extends, through FY 2009, AIP 
projects and project grant authority, as well as the DOT 
insurance coverage for domestic and foreign-flag air carriers. 
Air carrier liability limits for injuries to passengers 
resulting from acts of terrorism are extended through December 
31, 2009.

   To Designate the Airport Traffic Control Tower Located at Spokane 
 International Airport in Spokane, Washington, as the ``Ray Daves Air 
                        Traffic Control Tower''


                           Public Law 111-326


                              (H.R. 5591)


                           December 22, 2010

    This law designates the airport traffic control tower 
located at the Spokane International Airport in Spokane, 
Washington, as the ``Ray Daves Air Traffic Control Tower''. Ray 
Daves was a radioman for the U.S. Navy at the Pacific Fleet 
Headquarters in Oahu, Hawaii, during the Japanese attack on 
Pearl Harbor. When World War II was over, Daves became a 
civilian air traffic controller at Geiger Field, later known as 
the Spokane International Airport, in Spokane, Washington. He 
worked as an air traffic controller there from 1946 to 1974.

 Expressing the Sense of the Congress That General Aviation Pilots and 
Industry Should Be Recognized for the Contributions Made in Response to 
                    Haiti Earthquake Relief Efforts


                           (S. Con. Res. 61)


                              May 12, 2010

    S. Con. Res. 61 expresses the shared determination that 
Congress recognizes the many contributions of general aviation 
pilots and industry to the Haiti earthquake relief efforts. The 
concurrent resolution further encourages the continued 
generosity of general aviation pilots and operators in the 
ongoing humanitarian relief efforts in Haiti.

  Honoring the Heroic Actions of the Pilot, Crew, and Rescuers of US 
                          Airways Flight 1549


                              (H. Res. 84)


                            January 26, 2009

    H. Res. 84 honors the heroic actions of the pilot, crew, 
and rescuers of US Airways Flight 1549, which made an emergency 
landing on the Hudson River on January 15, 2009, following dual 
engine failure minutes after its departure from LaGuardia 
Airport. The resolution commends the skill with which Captain 
Chesley B. Sullenberger III and his copilot Jeffrey B. Skiles 
masterfully landed the plane on the river; as well as flight 
attendants Doreen Welsh, Donna Dent, and Sheila Dail, who 
quickly evacuated all 150 passengers. It also praises the U.S. 
Coast Guard, police, and ferry boats, for arriving to rescue 
the passengers within minutes of the accident.

Expressing Condolences to the Families, Friends, and Loved Ones of the 
       Victims of the Crash of Continental Connection Flight 3407


                             (H. Res. 183)


                           February 26, 2009

    H. Res. 183 expresses sympathy to those who lost family, 
friends, and loved ones in the tragic crash of Continental 
Connection Flight 3407, operated by Colgan Air. The lives of 
all 49 passengers and crew on the flight were lost on February 
12, 2009, when Flight 3407 crashed in Clarence Center, New 
York, about five miles outside of Buffalo. The Bombardier Dash 
8-400 was en route from Newark Liberty International Airport 
and it had begun its descent into Buffalo Niagara International 
Airport. The plane crashed into a house on the ground, killing 
one person inside as well. The resolution honors the lives that 
were lost on Flight 3407 and commends the first responders, 
emergency services personnel, volunteers, and air traffic 
controllers for their work.

Congratulating and Saluting the Seventieth Anniversary of the Aircraft 
 Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) and Their Dedication to General 
   Aviation, Safety and the Important Contribution General Aviation 
                     Provides to the United States


                             (H. Res. 472)


                              June 9, 2009

    H. Res. 472 congratulates and salutes the seventieth 
anniversary of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association 
(AOPA) and its dedication to general aviation and safety, and 
the important contribution that general aviation provides to 
the United States. In addition, the resolution commends AOPA 
for: creating the Air Safety Foundation, leading the recovery 
of the general aviation light aircraft manufacturing industry, 
and setting the stage for the development of Next Generation 
Air Transportation System by being an early proponent of the 
civilian use of the global positioning system. AOPA was 
incorporated on May 15, 1939, as a non-profit organization 
dedicated to general aviation.

 Expressing the Sense of the House of Representatives That the General 
  Aviation Industry Should Be Recognized for Its Contributions to the 
                             United States.


                             (H. Res. 508)


                             July 29, 2009

    H. Res. 508 expresses support for the general aviation 
industry, recognizes general aviation's contributions to the 
United States, and encourages general aviation activity. 
General aviation includes all civilian flying except scheduled 
passenger airline activity. General aviation transports 170 
million passengers annually, on over 230,000 aircraft. In 
addition, general aviation stimulates local and regional 
economies it comprises over $150 billion in direct and indirect 
economic output and supports almost 1.3 million jobs.

Commending Russ Meyer on his Induction Into the National Aviation Hall 
                                of Fame


                             (H. Res. 719)


                            October 14, 2009

    H. Res. 719 congratulates Russell W. Meyer for being 
inducted into the National Aviation Hall of Fame and recognizes 
his achievements and his lifetime of service to the aviation 
industry. Russ Meyer received a Bachelor of Arts degree from 
Yale, and Doctor of Law degree from Harvard. He went on to 
serve in both the Air Force and the Marine Corps Reserves as a 
fighter pilot from 1955-1961. As Cessna Aircraft Company 
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer from 1975 to 2003, Meyer 
advocated for the General Aviation Revitalization Act of 1994, 
which limited liability for aircraft manufacturers. He also 
expanded Cessna's Citation line of business jets, winning two 
Collier Trophies. In 1995, he won the Wright Brothers Memorial 
Trophy for his role in the creation of the Citation Special 
Olympics Airlift, which coordinated hundreds of owners of 
Citation aircraft to transport athletes from around the country 
to the Special Olympics National Games. Meyer also helped to 
develop the ``Be a Pilot Program'', which encouraged flight 
training schools to offer reduced rates on introductory flight 
training lessons. The ``Be a Pilot Program'' led to tens of 
thousands of new pilots. On July 19, 2009, Meyer was enshrined 
in the National Aviation Hall of Fame.

 Supporting the Goals and Ideals of National Learn to Fly Day, and for 
                             Other Purposes


                             (H. Res. 1284)


                              May 12, 2010

    H. Res. 1284 supports the goals and ideals of National 
Learn to Fly Day and recognizes the contributions of flight 
instructors, flight schools, aviation groups, and industry in 
promoting and teaching the nation's next generation of pilots.

    Expressing Gratitude for the Contributions That the Air Traffic 
Controllers of the United States Make To Keep the Traveling Public Safe 
  and the Airspace of the United States Running Efficiently, and for 
                             Other Purposes


                             (H. Res. 1401)


                             July 27, 2010

    Air traffic controllers are responsible for ensuring the 
safety of approximately two million aviation passengers a day 
by providing separation services to aircraft operating in the 
national airspace system. Air traffic controllers react to 
highly complex and sometimes dangerous situations on a daily 
basis. In addition, they are responsible for working seven days 
a week, 24 hours a day, including holidays. Due to the highly 
stressful nature of the job, which requires total 
concentration, air traffic controllers must retire by age 56.
    Currently, more than 15,700 controllers, including those at 
the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City, air traffic control 
facilities, and the Air Traffic System Command Center, are 
employed in the United States.
    H. Res. 1401 describes nine separate incidents where 
controllers saved many lives by providing excellent service in 
a calm and professional manner. The resolution recognizes the 
nation's air traffic controllers by expressing gratitude for 
the contributions that air traffic controllers make to keep the 
traveling public safe and the airspace of the United States 
running efficiently. It commends air traffic controllers for 
the calm and professional manner in which they ensure 
separation of air traffic. H. Res. 1401 also acknowledges air 
traffic controllers' heroic action, dedication, and quick and 
skillful decision-making.
    Furthermore, the resolution encourages greater investment 
in the modernization of the nation's air traffic control system 
so that air traffic controllers have the resources and 
technology needed to better carry out their mission as air 
travel continues to grow.

       Supporting Backcountry Airstrips and Recreational Aviation


                             (H. Res. 1473)


                           September 15, 2010

    H. Res. 1473 recognizes the value of recreational aviation 
and backcountry airstrips located on the nation's public lands 
and commends aviators and the various organizations that 
maintain these airstrips for public use.
    In general, a backcountry airstrip is an unattended landing 
area in a location that provides access to remote, undeveloped 
rural areas by aircraft, usually airplanes. Backcountry 
airstrips allow enhanced access for a variety of recreational 
activities, emergency services, firefighting, and land 
management activities, and they provide a means of access to 
remote areas for physically disadvantaged individuals who might 
not otherwise be able to get to remote locations for leisure. 
These airstrips also serve as efficient access points for 
tourists, who in turn contribute to local economies and small 
businesses. More importantly, in the event of mechanical 
problems or inclement weather, they serve as emergency landing 
sites for aircraft when larger airports are out of reach.
    Many backcountry airstrips are privately owned. However, 
several state aviation offices own and operate backcountry 
airstrips, and many airstrips are owned by public agencies 
involved in land management, such as the U.S. Forest Service, 
National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, and the 
Bureau of Reclamation.

    Congratulating the National Air Transportation Association for 
                    Celebrating Its 70th Anniversary


                             (H. Res. 1669)


                            December 1, 2010

    H. Res. 1669 recognizes National Air Transportation 
Association's (NATA) historical contributions to general 
aviation and congratulates NATA for celebrating its 70th 
anniversary. NATA was founded on December 28, 1940, at a 
critical moment in the development of general aviation in the 
United States. Today, NATA represents more than 2,000 member 
companies that own, operate, or service aircraft and provide 
for the needs of the traveling public by offering services and 
products to aircraft operators and others.

                Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation


                 Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2010


                           Public Law 111-281


                              (H.R. 3619)


               (See also H.R. 2650, H.R. 2652, H.R. 3376)


                            October 15, 2010

    The Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2010 (P.L. 111-281) is 
the authorizing legislation for the Coast Guard. The 
legislation is based on H.R. 2830, the ``Coast Guard 
Authorization Act of 2007'', which passed in the House during 
the 110th Congress on April 24, 2008. Public Law 111-281 also 
incorporates several bills related to the Coast Guard and 
maritime transportation. Public Law 111-281 is the first Coast 
Guard authorization act to be enacted into law since 2006.
    The law authorizes annual appropriations for the service 
and an increase in its military end strength. Public Law 111-
281 also includes other provisions that address: Coast Guard 
personnel and management; shipping and navigation; acquisition 
reform; leadership structure within Coast Guard; marine safety; 
oil spill prevention; port security; and the use of toxic hull 
coatings on certain vessels.
    Title I authorizes $10.2 billion in FY 2011 for the Coast 
Guard and increases the service's authorized end-strength of 
military personnel by 1,500 members to 47,000.
    Title II makes changes to the management of the Coast 
Guard's officer corps and provides for Coast Guard families.
    The law establishes the number and distribution of 
commissioned Coast Guard officers and sets compulsory 
retirement ages for flag and regular commissioned officers, and 
authorizes Coast Guard veterans' access to the Armed Forces 
Retirement Home system. Title II also provides the Coast Guard 
with the flexibility to retain and promote officers that have 
specialized skills to meet the needs of the Coast Guard. The 
law also authorizes two Presidential awards--the Coast Guard 
Cross and the Silver Star medal for extraordinary heroism and 
gallantry, respectively.
    The law provides for Coast Guard personnel and their 
families by: (1) authorizing reimbursement to Coast Guard 
personnel stationed at remote locations for reasonable expenses 
related to travel for medical reasons; (2) facilitating the 
acquisition of family housing for military personnel; (3) 
authorizing the use of appropriated funds to provide child 
development services with fees for the services to be based 
upon family income; and (4) authorizing the Secretary to 
provide support services for chaplain-led programs that assist 
active duty and reserve personnel and their families to 
maintain strong families. This law also permits active duty 
Coast Guard personnel assigned to support operations associated 
with major disasters or spills of national significance to 
retain leave in excess of normal limitations. In addition, the 
position of District Ombudsman is created in each Coast Guard 
district to serve as a liaison between the Coast Guard and the 
maritime community.
    Title III makes changes to certain laws that apply to 
shipping and navigation. The law: (1) creates a civil penalty 
for simple possession of controlled substances on vessels 
subject to the jurisdiction of the United States; (2) requires 
a plan to deliver merchant mariners' documents by mail; (3) 
phases out, after December 31, 2017, the deployment of foreign-
flag vessels engaged in certain operations on the outer 
continental shelf in the Beaufort and Chukchi Seas off Alaska; 
and (4) includes measures to help ensure safe and secure 
shipping in the Arctic.
    Title III ensures safe and secure maritime shipping in the 
Arctic by encouraging the Secretary to enter into negotiations 
through the International Maritime Organization to promote 
coordinated action between the United States, Russia, Canada, 
Iceland, Norway, and Denmark to ensure: (1) maintenance of aids 
to navigation; (2) marine safety and salvage capability; (3) 
oil spill prevention and response capability; (4) maritime 
domain awareness; and (5) search and rescue capability. The law 
also requires the Secretary to promote safe navigation through 
icebreaking where necessary.
    Title IV responds directly to the issues related to the 
Coast Guard's acquisition programs. This title is based upon, 
H.R. 1665, the ``Coast Guard Acquisition Reform Act of 2009'', 
which passed the House on July 29, 2009.
    Specifically, this title makes improvements in Coast Guard 
acquisition management by: (1) requiring the Commandant of the 
Coast Guard to select a Chief Acquisition Officer who meets 
prescribed training and experience standards; (2) creating an 
Acquisition Directorate within the Coast Guard with a defined 
mission and a workforce dedicated to performing acquisition 
functions; and (3) establishing experience standards for 
acquisition personnel. The law also prohibits the use of 
private sector lead systems integrators after the date of 
enactment, except to complete certain specific acquisitions.
    Title IV also defines levels of acquisitions based upon 
life-cycle costs and prescribes a process for large 
acquisitions through which the Coast Guard must: (1) clearly 
define operational requirements of projects and programs; (2) 
analyze alternatives; (3) develop project or program baselines; 
(4) produce life-cycle cost estimates; and (5) assess the 
merits of alternatives. The analysis of alternatives is to be 
prepared by a Federally-funded research and development center. 
The law also requires reports to Congress when cost overruns 
and delays in excess of prescribed levels occur.
    Title V modernizes the Coast Guard by reorganizing the 
Coast Guard's senior leadership, as proposed by the Coast 
Guard. This title authorizes no more than four vice admiral 
positions to perform duties prescribed by the Commandant.
    The law requires the Secretary to ensure appropriate career 
paths and minimum qualifications for prevention and response 
personnel who wish to develop expertise in prevention and 
response, and authorizes the Commandant of the Coast Guard to 
establish centers of expertise for prevention and response.
    The law requires the Coast Guard to develop a long-term 
strategy for improving marine safety with the following 
priorities and goals: (1) reducing the number and rates of 
marine casualties; (2) improving the consistency and 
effectiveness of enforcement and compliance programs; (3) 
targeting high-risk vessels for enforcement efforts; and (4) 
improving research.
    Title V also requires that any individual, excluding the 
Commandant, who adjudicates an appeal or waiver of a decision 
related to marine safety must be a qualified specialist who is 
able to effectively judge the facts. In addition, the 
Commandant must ensure that the Coast Guard Academy will 
provide courses in mariner safety.
    Title VI enhances marine safety through a variety of 
provisions. The law enhances fishing vessel safety by: (1) 
permitting owners of certain fishing vessels to rebuild or 
replace their vessels and maintain the vessels' permits or 
licenses to fish; (2) establishing safety equipment and vessel 
construction standards; and (3) requiring fishing vessels of 
certain sizes and those fishing vessels that undergo 
substantial changes to comply with load line regulations and 
comply with classification society rules and standards for 
construction and equipment. Compliance with these requirements 
will be certified by a classification society. The law further 
enhances fishing vessel safety by establishing safety standards 
with respect to equipment and operations including: (1) 
survival craft that ensure no part of an individual is immersed 
in the water; (2) carriage of marine radios, nautical charts 
and publications, and sufficient medical supplies; and (3) 
requiring individuals in charge of fishing vessels to pass a 
training program approved by the Secretary. Individuals in 
charge of fishing vessels must also maintain records of safety 
equipment maintenance and safety drills.
    The law enhances marine safety in other areas by: (1) 
requiring certain vessels to maintain official logbooks and to 
log the service hours of seamen, their injuries, and their 
illnesses; (2) requiring ``safety management systems'' on 
certain passenger vessels; (3) authorizing the Coast Guard to 
terminate the operation of vessels for ``unsafe operation''; 
(4) permitting seamen who suffer discrimination because they 
report safety violations to use the same Department of Labor 
complaint process that is currently available to workers in the 
other transportation modes; (5) authorizing the Coast Guard to 
establish standards for required marine safety equipment based 
on performance, best available technology, and operational 
practicality; and (6) requiring the Secretary to prescribe 
regulations for the installation of life preservers and other 
lifesaving appliances for uninspected vessels.
    This title also: (1) removes the tonnage limit on offshore 
supply vessels and prescribes manning levels and watch 
schedules aboard offshore supply vessels; (2) reauthorizes 
several advisory committees related to marine safety; and (3) 
authorizes the Secretary to delegate authority to review and 
approve plans and to conduct inspections and examinations to 
the American Bureau of Shipping or another classification 
society recognized by the Secretary with respect to offshore 
facilities.
    Title VII reduces the risk of oil spills during transfers 
of oil between vessels. The law: (1) requires the Secretary to 
conduct a study to identify the types of human errors that lead 
to oil spills, with particular attention to fatigue; (2) 
extends liability for oil spills to the owners of cargo shipped 
on single-hulled vessels; and (3) amends the Oil Pollution Act 
of 1990 to extend to tank vessels of 100 gross tons or more the 
requirement to show financial responsibility for oil spills.
    Title VIII contains a number of provisions that enhance the 
security of the nation's waterways, ports, and marine cargoes.
    This title: (1) establishes the America's Waterway Watch 
Program to promote voluntary reporting of activities that may 
indicate a threat or an act of terrorism; (2) requires the 
Coast Guard to enforce the security zones imposed around tank 
vessels containing especially hazardous cargos; (3) permits 
engagement of State and local law enforcement to provide 
waterside security at terminals handling especially hazardous 
cargoes; (4) mandates that the Secretary make a recommendation 
regarding the suitability of a waterway to accommodate the 
marine traffic associated with a waterside liquefied natural 
gas facility to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, after 
considering recommendations by States; (5) authorizes the Coast 
Guard to assist foreign port facility operators to meet 
international port security standards; (6) requires the 
Secretary to develop and utilize a national standard and 
formula for prioritizing and addressing security risks at 
United States ports; (7) requires development of a program for 
the mobile biometric identification of suspect individuals 
including terrorists; and (8) prescribes training standards for 
the certification of port facility security officers.
    This title also requires the Secretary, in conjunction with 
the appropriate Federal agencies, to develop a national 
strategy for the waterside security of vessels and facilities 
handling especially hazardous cargoes.
    To ensure that the Coast Guard is able to carry out the 
Service's other homeland security responsibilities, the law 
authorizes additional Coast Guard maritime forces and security 
teams. The legislation requires no fewer than two teams of 
deployable specialized forces capable of combating terrorism, 
engaging in interdiction, law enforcement, and advanced 
tactical maritime security operations. The law also requires 
the Secretary to increase the number of canine teams capable of 
detecting narcotics and explosives by no fewer than 10 annually 
through fiscal year 2012.
    Title VIII also contains several provisions related to 
security and maritime workers. The law requires: (1) that 
seamen, pilots, and representatives of seamen's welfare and 
labor organizations not be charged fees individually for 
expenses related to access through port facilities and shore 
leave; (2) coordination between the Secretary and owners and 
operators of port facilities to allow workers who have applied 
for, but have not yet received, a transportation workers' 
security card to be escorted into secure or restricted areas of 
a port facility; (3) the Secretary to make timely responses to 
individuals who apply for a transportation security card; (4) 
the establishment of procedures for maritime workers to be 
fingerprinted, as part of an application for a transportation 
security card, at any of no fewer than 20 facilities operated 
by or under contract to the Department of Homeland Security; 
and (5) development of a plan to permit maritime workers to 
receive their transportation security cards at facilities or 
aboard vessels. The law also authorizes the Secretary to use a 
secondary means to verify the identities of individual applying 
for a transportation security card.
    Title IX includes several miscellaneous provisions. The 
provisions include: (1) waivers of the requirements for 
coastwise endorsements for certain vessels, subject to specific 
conditions; (2) changes to the penalties payable by operators 
of certain cruise ships for nonpayment of seamen's wages in 
class action suits; (3) an extension of the current deadline 
for compliance with U.S.-citizen manning requirements for 
operators of vessels in the U.S. distant water tuna fishing 
fleet to December 31, 2012; (4) a provision to limit the 
jurisdiction of States to tax certain seamen; (5) authorization 
to convey certain Coast Guard property to certain local 
governments; (6) authorization for the States of Texas and 
Oklahoma to license operators of uninspected passenger vessels 
operating on Lake Texoma; and (7) limitation of the liability 
for monetary damages of individuals who use or authorize the 
use of force to defend a vessel of the United States against 
piracy.
    The law also strengthens criminal penalties for failing to 
heave to, obstructing Coast Guard boardings, and providing 
false information to the Coast Guard when the offense involves 
``aggravating factors''. Aggravating factors include: death, an 
attempt to kill, kidnapping or an attempt to kidnap, aggravated 
sexual abuse, serious bodily injury, and transportation of 
individuals under inhumane conditions.
    Title X includes the text of H.R. 3618, the ``Clean Hull 
Act of 2009'', which passed the House on November 17, 2009. 
This title aligns U.S. law with the International Convention on 
the Control of Harmful Anti-Fouling Systems on Ships, 2001 by 
prohibiting the sale, distribution, or manufacture of organotin 
or antifouling systems containing organotin. Organotin is a 
chemical used to inhibit the growth of marine organisms on the 
hulls of vessels and certain marine structures.
    Title X also prohibits vessels, regardless of when the 
anti-fouling system was applied, from using an anti-fouling 
system containing organotin, establishes penalties for 
violation, and establishes the Secretary of the department in 
which the Coast Guard is operating and the Administrator of the 
Environmental Protection Agency as administrators and enforcers 
of this new law.

             Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act of 2010


                           Public Law 111-207


                              (H.R. 3360)


                             July 27, 2010

    This law imposes new security and safety requirements on 
cruise ships that carry at least 250 passengers and call on a 
port in the United States except as part of a coastwise voyage.
    Public Law 111-207 contains a number of provisions that 
will enhance the safety and security of passengers on board 
cruise vessels.
    This law requires that, beginning 18 months after the date 
of enactment of the Act, each vessel to which the section 
applies must comply with specific design and construction 
standards. The vessels must have rails located not less than 42 
inches above the cabin deck, and must have passenger staterooms 
and crew cabins equipped with peep holes or other means for 
visual identification. To the extent that it is available, the 
vessels must integrate technology that can detect when 
passengers have fallen overboard. The vessel must also be 
equipped with operable acoustic hailing or warning devices to 
provide communication capability around the entire vessel when 
it is operating in high risk waters, as defined by the Coast 
Guard. Beginning on the date of enactment of the Act (July 27, 
2010), any vessel the keel of which is laid after that date 
must equip passenger staterooms and cabins with security 
latches and time-sensitive key technologies.
    To help combat crime aboard cruise vessels, this law also 
requires that the owner of a vessel maintain a video 
surveillance system to assist in documenting crimes on the 
vessel and to provide evidence for the prosecution of such 
crimes. In addition, the law requires owners of vessels to 
employ physicians meeting certain professional qualifications 
and to maintain on the vessel adequate, in-date supplies of 
anti-retroviral medications and other medications designed to 
prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases after 
a sexual assault, as well as equipment and materials for 
performing medical examinations in sexual assault cases. The 
law also requires the owner of a vessel to record in a log 
book, either electronically or otherwise, reports on specified 
complaints.
    In addition, the law requires the owner of a vessel or the 
owner's designee to contact the nearest Federal Bureau of 
Investigation (FBI) Field Office or Legal Attache by telephone 
as soon as possible after the occurrence on board the vessel of 
an incident involving homicide, suspicious death, a missing 
U.S. national, kidnapping, assault with serious bodily injury, 
any offense to which 18 U.S.C. Sec. Sec. 2241, 2242, 2243, or 
2244(a), or (c) applies, firing or tampering with the vessel, 
or theft of money or property in excess of $10,000 to report 
the incident.
    The Secretary of Transportation is required to maintain a 
statistical compilation of certain incidents on an Internet 
site that provides a numerical accounting of the missing 
persons and alleged crimes recorded in each report that are no 
longer under investigation. The data shall be updated no less 
frequently than quarterly and aggregated by cruise line (and 
each cruise line shall be identified by name), and by whether 
the crime was committed by a passenger or a crew member. Each 
cruise line taking on or discharging passengers in the United 
States shall include a link on its Internet website to the 
website maintained by the Secretary of Transportation.

To Make Technical Corrections to Provisions of Law Enacted by the Coast 
                    Guard Authorization Act of 2010


                           Public Law 111-330


                              (H.R. 6516)


                           December 22, 2010

    The law makes technical corrections to the Coast Guard 
Authorization Act of 2010 (P.L. 111-281).

Directing the Clerk of the House of Representatives To Make a Technical 
               Correction in the Enrollment of H.R. 3360


                           (H. Con. Res. 289)


                             July 12, 2010

    H. Con. Res. 289 directs the Clerk of the House of 
Representatives to make a technical correction in the 
enrollment of H.R. 3360, the Cruise Vessel Security and Safety 
Act of 2010 (P.L. 111-207).

 To Commend the American Sail Training Association for Its Advancement 
      of Character Building Under Sail and for Its Advancement of 
                         International Goodwill


                             (H. Res. 197)


                             April 14, 2010

    H. Res. 197 commends the American Sail Training Association 
(ASTA) for its work to advance character building under sail 
and for its advancement of international good will, and 
commends ASTA for its advancement of character building 
experiences for youth at sea in traditionally rigged sailing 
vessels and its advancement of the finest traditions of the 
sea.
    H. Res. 197 also commends ASTA as the national sail 
training association of the United States, representing the 
sail training community of the United States in the 
international forum.

  Recognizing the Numerous Contributions of the Recreational Boating 
  Community and the Boating Industry to the Continuing Prosperity and 
                     Affluence of the United States


                             (H. Res. 410)


                              June 9, 2009

    H. Res. 410 recognizes the contributions of the 
recreational boating industry and the boating community to the 
United States. This resolution also acknowledges that the 59 
million individuals who boat generate more than $33 billion for 
the U.S. economy, and provide jobs for 337,000 Americans. This 
resolution recognizes that the 1,400 active boat builders in 
the United States use materials and services from all 50 
states. Recreational boating activities provide opportunities 
for families to be together, and have a beneficial effect on 
scholastic performance and physical fitness of those who 
participate. Finally, H. Res. 410 urges the President to issue 
a proclamation declaring July 1, 2009, as National Boating Day.

   Expressing the Gratitude of the House of Representatives for the 
  Service to Our Nation of the Coast Guard and Marine Corps Aircraft 
Pilots and Crewmembers Lost Off the Coast of California on October 29, 
                      2009, and for Other Purposes


                             (H. Res. 891)


                           November 17, 2009

    H. Res. 891 expresses the gratitude of the House of 
Representatives for the service to our nation of the Coast 
Guard and Marine Corps aircraft pilots and crewmembers lost off 
the coast of California on October 29, 2009.
    H. Res. 891 recognizes the crew members of the Coast Guard 
C-130 that are missing and presumed to have lost their lives in 
the line of duty: Lt. Cmdr. Che J. Barnes; Lt. Adam W. Bryant; 
Chief Petty Officer John F. Seidman; Petty Officer 2nd Class 
Carl P. Grigonis; Petty Officer 2nd Class Monica L. Beacham; 
Petty Officer 2nd Class Jason S. Moletzsky; and Petty Officer 
3rd Class Danny R. Kreder II.
    H. Res. 891 also recognizes the crew members of the Marine 
Corps helicopter that are missing and presumed to have lost 
their lives in the line of duty: Maj. Samuel Leigh and 1st Lt. 
Thomas Claiborne.

   Recognizing the Coast Guard Group Astoria's More Than 60 Years of 
        Service to the Pacific Northwest, and for Other Purposes


                             (H. Res. 1062)


                             April 15, 2010

    H. Res. 1062 recognizes the Coast Guard Group Astoria's 
more than 60 years of service to the Pacific Northwest, and 
honors the brave men and women of Coast Guard Group Astoria who 
risk their lives daily to ensure the safety and security of the 
people of the Pacific Northwest.
    H. Res. 1062 directs the Clerk of the House of 
Representatives to make available enrolled copies of this 
resolution to Coast Guard Group Astoria for appropriate 
display.

   Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management 


               Predisaster Hazard Mitigation Act of 2010


                           Public Law 111-__


                              (H.R. 1746)


                              January 2011

    This law reauthorizes the Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) 
program for three years at the following levels: $180 million 
in fiscal year 2011 and $200 million per year in each of fiscal 
years 2012 and 2013. The law also increases the minimum amount 
that each state receives under the program from $500,000 to 
$575,000, and prohibits the provision of assistance under the 
PDM program through congressionally-directed spending.

            Federal Buildings Personnel Training Act of 2010


                           Public Law 111-308


                               (S. 3250)


                           December 14, 2010

    The Federal Buildings Personnel Training Act of 2010 (P.L. 
111-308) authorizes the Administrator of General Services, in 
consultation with others, to establish core competencies 
relating to buildings operation and maintenance, energy 
management, sustainability, building performance, and other 
matters for Federal personnel and contract employees performing 
buildings operations functions in Federal buildings. The law 
establishes core competencies for Federal employees and 
contract personnel working in certain building operations and 
maintenance disciplines to ensure that Federal buildings 
perform and are maintained in accordance with industry best 
practices. The law will ensure that Federal buildings and 
components are maximally productive and properly maintained to 
achieve the highest possible return on investment over the 
infrastructure's projected operating life.

      Smithsonian Institution Facilities Authorization Act of 2009


                           Public Law 111-11


                               (Title XV)


                               (H.R. 608)


                             March 30, 2009

    This law authorizes the Board of Regents of the Smithsonian 
Institution to design and construct laboratory space to 
accommodate the Mathias Laboratory at the Smithsonian 
Environmental Research Center in Edgewater, Maryland; to 
construct laboratory space to accommodate the terrestrial 
research program of the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute 
in Gamboa, Panama; and to construct a greenhouse facility at 
its museum support facility in Suitland, Maryland.

 To Authorize the Administrator of General Services To Convey a Parcel 
   of Real Property in Galveston, Texas, to the Galveston Historical 
                               Foundation


                           Public Law 111-76


                              (H.R. 2121)


                            October 19, 2009

    This law authorizes the Administrator of General Services, 
no later than 90 days after the date of enactment of the Act, 
to convey, by quitclaim deed, a parcel of real property located 
at 502 20th Street in Galveston, Texas, to the Galveston 
Historical Foundation, subject to certain requirements. All 
proceeds derived from the sale of the parcel of real property 
located at 502 20th Street in Galveston, Texas, is required to 
be deposited in the Federal Building Fund.
    The parcel of real property located at 502 20th Street is 
the 1861 U.S. Custom House. It is one of the oldest buildings 
in Galveston, Texas, and was added to the National Register of 
Historic Places in 1970. The Galveston Historical Foundation 
was incorporated in 1954, and has since cultivated its work to 
cover community redevelopment, public education, historic 
preservation advocacy, maritime preservation, and stewardship 
of historic properties on Galveston Island. To date, the 
Galveston Historical Foundation has more than 2,000 members and 
has twice been awarded the National Trust for Historic 
Preservation's Honor Award.
    In 1998, the General Services Administration and the 
Galveston Historical Foundation entered into a long-term lease 
agreement with respect to the 1861 U.S. Custom House. In 
exchange for the Galveston Historical Society rehabilitating 
the historical building, it was granted a long-term lease. This 
law allows the Galveston Historical Society to purchase the 
building outright.

  Directs the Administrator of General Services To Convey a Parcel of 
    Real Property in Houston, Texas, to the Military Museum of Texas


                           Public Law 111-__


                              (H.R. 6510)


                              January 2011

    This law directs the Administrator of General Services to 
sell a 3.6-acre parcel of land improved with a 20,000 square 
foot light-industrial building to the current tenant, the 
Military Museum of Texas, for the fair value of the property in 
its current use. The Military Museum of Texas is a non-profit 
501(c)(3) organization founded in 1992, with an all-volunteer 
staff. The Museum has been operating on the property since 
2004, paying a nominal rent. The legislation further directs 
the General Services Administration to convey the property with 
a restrictive covenant requiring that the property's current 
use continue for a period of 30 years, and in the event that 
the Military Museum seeks to abrogate this use, it is then 
required to seek prior permission of the Administrator and pay 
to the United States the value of the property in its highest 
and best use.

   Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture To Convey to the City of 
                 Bountiful, Utah, Certain Federal Land


                           Public Law 111-11


                 (Title III, Subtitle D, section 3307)


                               (H.R. 604)


                             March 30, 2009

    This law authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to 
exchange certain Federal land identified as Shooting Range 
Special Use Permit Area on the map, entitled ``Bountiful City 
Land Consolidation Act'', dated October 15, 2007, if the city 
of Bountiful, Utah conveys three parcels of land consisting of 
a total of approximately 1,680 acres to the Secretary of 
Agriculture.

  To Designate the United States Courthouse Under Construction at 327 
South Church Street, Rockford, Illinois, as the ``Stanley J. Roszkowski 
                       United States Courthouse''


                           Public Law 111-14


                                (S. 520)


                             April 23, 2009

    This law designates the United States courthouse under 
construction at 327 South Church Street, Rockford, Illinois, as 
the ``Stanley J. Roszkowski United States Courthouse''.
    Stanley Roszkowski was born on January 22, 1923, and was 
raised in Royalton, Illinois. He was one of 15 children. He 
served a decorated tour in World War II as a nose gunner on a 
B26 bomber. After his discharge from the United States Air 
Force, he enrolled at the University of Illinois where he 
received his Bachelor of Science degree in 1949 and his Juris 
Doctor in 1954. He then opened up a successful law practice in 
Rockford.
    Stanley Roszkowski was appointed judge for the United 
States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois on 
October 11, 1977. He took senior status on January 9, 1991, and 
retired in January 1998 after serving for more than 20 years.
    Judge Roszkowski was instrumental in having the courthouse 
constructed in Rockford, Illinois.

To Designate the Federal Building and United States Courthouse Located 
at 306 East Main Street in Elizabeth City, North Carolina, as the ``J. 
    Herbert W. Small Federal Building and United States Courthouse''


                           Public Law 111-34


                               (H.R. 813)


                             June 30, 2009

    This law designates the Federal building and United States 
courthouse located in Elizabeth City, North Carolina as the 
``J. Herbert W. Small Federal Building and United States 
Courthouse''.
    J. Herbert W. Small is a life-long resident of Elizabeth 
City, North Carolina. He is a graduate of the University of 
Virginia Engineering School, and the University of North 
Carolina Law School at Chapel Hill. He began the practice of 
law in 1949 and continued in his chosen field for over five 
decades. During his professional career he was a member of the 
First Judicial District Bar Association, the American Bar 
Association, and the North Carolina Bar Association.
    He began his public career as Special Counsel to the 
Congressional Committee on Intergovernmental Relations. Judge 
Small later served as county attorney for Pasquotank County. In 
1979, Judge Small was elected Judge of Superior Court of the 
First Judicial District and served as senior resident judge for 
seventeen years. Judge Small is an active volunteer, serving on 
the Board of Directors of the Albemarle Hospital, and the 
American Red Cross. He has received numerous awards and honors 
from the Jaycees, the Boy Scouts, Volunteer Fireman, the 
Chamber of Commerce, and the Rotary and Elks clubs.
    Further, Judge Small served his country during World War II 
in the U.S. Navy.
    Judge Small is an outstanding mentor and volunteer. For 
over five decades, he has been an exceptional jurist, and civic 
leader.

 To Designate the Federal Building Located at 799 United Nations Plaza 
 in New York, New York, as the ``Ronald H. Brown United States Mission 
                    to the United Nations Building''


                           Public Law 111-35


                               (H.R. 837)


                             June 30, 2009

    This law designates the Federal building at 799 United 
Nations Plaza in New York, New York, as the ``Ronald H. Brown 
United States Mission to the United Nations Building''.
    Ronald Harmon Brown was born on August 1, 1941. His early 
school days were spent at Hunter College Elementary School, a 
public school on Manhattan's East Side. He subsequently 
attended high school at White Plains High School and the Rhodes 
School in Manhattan. In 1962, Brown graduated from Middlebury 
College in Vermont. After college, he served in the Army from 
1962 to 1967, commanding several units in the United States, 
Germany, and South Korea. Brown was discharged from the Army in 
1967. After serving in the Army, he attended St. John's Law 
School and began working as a job developer and trainee adviser 
for the National Urban League. By 1976, Brown served as the 
National Urban League's Deputy Executive Director for programs 
and governmental affairs.
    He left the National Urban League in 1979 to work for 
Senator Edward M. Kennedy, who sought the Democratic Party's 
presidential nomination. In 1981, Brown began a career as a 
lawyer and lobbyist. In 1988, he was elected Chairman of the 
Democratic National Committee. From 1989 to 1992, he served as 
Chairman and used his skills as a negotiator and pragmatic 
bridge builder to help reunite the Democratic Party, after its 
candidate was defeated in the 1988 presidential election.
    In 1993, President William J. Clinton appointed Ronald H. 
Brown as Secretary of Commerce. During his tenure, Secretary 
Brown effectively utilized and expanded the role of the U.S. 
Department of Commerce. Secretary Brown was known for his 
amiable political style and his deft skill in negotiations and, 
as Secretary, he used these qualities effectively to promote 
U.S. trade, expand foreign markets for American businesses, and 
spur domestic job growth and economic development.
    Tragically, on April 3, 1996, while on an official 
Department of Commerce trade mission, Secretary Brown and 34 
others were killed in an airplane crash in Croatia. The 
Department of State had requested that Secretary Brown 
personally undertake the trade mission to highlight and find 
opportunities for U.S. businesses to boost economic 
reconstruction of the war torn region of former Yugoslavia. The 
trip itinerary included stops in Zagreb, the capital of 
Croatia; visiting American troops in Tuzla, Bosnia-Herzegovina; 
and Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia. The trade mission was on 
its way to Dubrovnik, Croatia, when the plane crashed on the 
coast of the Adriatic Sea.
    Throughout his life, Secretary Brown broke many barriers. 
He was the first African-American to serve as Secretary of 
Commerce and the first African-American Chairman of a national 
political party.

To Designate the Federally Occupied Building Located at McKinley Avenue 
  and Third Street, SW., Canton, Ohio, as the ``Ralph Regula Federal 
                      Building and US Courthouse''


                           Public Law 111-74


                              (H.R. 1687)


                            October 19, 2009

    This law designates the Federally-occupied building located 
at McKinley Avenue and Third Street, SW., Canton, Ohio, as the 
``Ralph Regula Federal Building and United States Courthouse''. 
Representative Ralph Regula represented Ohio's 16th 
Congressional District from January 3, 1973, to January 3, 
2009. Ralph Strauss Regula was born in Beach City, Ohio, on 
December 3, 1924. After high school, Representative Regula 
served in the United States Navy during World War II. Regula 
later went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree from Mount 
Union College in 1948, and then graduated from the William 
McKinley School of Law in Canton, Ohio in 1952.
    Representative Regula served in many different capacities 
during his long tenure in public service. He was a member of 
the Ohio state board of education from 1960-1964, and was then 
elected to the Ohio state House of Representatives from 1965-
1967 and subsequently served in the Ohio state Senate from 
1967-1972. Regula was then elected to the U.S. House of 
Representatives in the 93rd Congress, and served for 36 years.
    Representative Regula, one of the longest serving 
Republican members of Congress, retired at the end of the 110th 
Congress after a career of nearly 50 years of public service. 
He is married to Mary Regula, and has three children and four 
grandchildren.

   To Designate the United States Courthouse Located at 525 Magoffin 
   Avenue in El Paso, Texas, as the ``Albert Armendariz, Sr., United 
                          States Courthouse''


                           Public Law 111-75


                              (H.R. 2053)


                            October 19, 2009

    This law designates the United States courthouse located at 
525 Magoffin Avenue in El Paso, Texas, as the ``Albert 
Armendariz, Sr., United States Courthouse''. Judge Albert 
Armendariz, Sr., had a long and distinguished career of public 
service. Albert Armendariz was born on August 11, 1919, in El 
Paso, Texas. After graduating from high school in 1934, Judge 
Armendariz joined the United States Army and served in World 
War II. After he left the U.S. Army, Armendariz used the GI 
Bill to continue his education. He later graduated from the 
University of Texas at El Paso and then the University of 
Southern California (USC) Law School, where he was the only 
Mexican-American in attendance. After graduating from the USC 
law school in 1950, Judge Armendariz returned to El Paso, 
Texas.
    Early in his career Judge Armendariz tackled discrimination 
head on while serving on the El Paso Civil Service Commission, 
pushing the agency to end discrimination against Latino 
applicants for civil service positions. Perhaps his most 
lasting legacy will be his work on Hernandez v. The State of 
Texas, which established Latinos as a class entitled to 
protection under the 14th amendment of the U.S. Constitution.
    From 1976 to 1985, he was an immigration judge (special 
inquiry officer) with the U.S. Department of Justice and was 
appointed to, and served on, the Texas Court of Appeals from 
July 2, 1986, until November 30, 1986.
    In addition to his service in government, Judge Armendariz 
also found time to serve in leadership positions in influential 
civic organizations. Judge Armendariz served as National 
President of the League of United Latin American Citizens 
during the 1950s and fought school segregation and 
discrimination. Judge Armendariz also helped to form the 
influential Mexican American Legal Defense & Education Fund in 
1968. Judge Armendariz had a never-ending passion for service 
to his community, and practiced law until his death at age 88 
on October 4, 2007.

 To Designate the Federal Building Located at 844 North Rush Street in 
   Chicago, Illinois, as the ``William O. Lipinski Federal Building''


                           Public Law 111-77


                              (H.R. 2498)


                            October 19, 2009

    This law designates the Federal building located at 844 
North Rush Street in Chicago, Illinois, as the ``William O. 
Lipinski Federal Building''. Former Representative William O. 
Lipinski was a leader on transportation issues while he 
represented the 3rd and 5th Congressional Districts of 
Illinois. Representative Lipinski was born in Chicago on 
December 22, 1937. He attended Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa, 
and served in the United States Army Reserves from 1961 to 
1967.
    After serving in the armed forces, Representative Lipinski 
held several different public service positions in Chicago, 
Illinois, including working at the Chicago Park District for 
over 17 years.
    He was an Alderman in Chicago, a city councilman, and held 
several different positions within the Democratic Party in 
Chicago. Representative Lipinski was elected to Congress in 
1982, and served until 2005.
    Representative Lipinski was a leader on the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure throughout his tenure in 
Congress. He served as the senior Democrat on the Subcommittee 
on Railroads, the Subcommittee on Aviation, and the 
Subcommittee on Highways and Transit. He strongly advocated for 
transportation and connectivity issues in his district, whether 
it was providing a local airport with access for financing for 
infrastructure improvement or providing public transit options 
to areas in his Congressional district that lacked access. 
Representative Lipinski also played a large role in national 
transportation policy by taking leadership roles in the past 
two transportation authorization bills that provided funding 
for local priorities in highways, highway safety, public 
transit, and surface transportation programs.
    Representative William O. Lipinski retired in 2005, and was 
succeeded by his son, Representative Daniel Lipinski.

   To Designate the United States Courthouse Located at 301 Simonton 
Street in Key West, Florida, as the ``Sidney M. Aronovitz United States 
                              Courthouse''


                           Public Law 111-78


                              (H.R. 2913)


                            October 19, 2009

    This law designates the United States courthouse located at 
301 Simonton Street in Key West, Florida, as the ``Sidney M. 
Aronovitz United States Courthouse''. Judge Sidney M. Aronovitz 
served as a U.S. District Court Judge for the Southern District 
of Florida for 21 years. Aronovitz was born in Key West, 
Florida, on June 20, 1920. After graduating from Key West High 
School in 1937, he attended the University of Florida where he 
was awarded a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1942, and a law 
degree, with honors, in 1943. Aronovitz went on to serve as a 
U.S. Army Captain from 1943-1946, earning multiple 
distinctions, including a Bronze Star.
    Between 1943 and 1976, Aronovitz served as a lawyer in 
private practice in Miami, Florida. He also served as a City 
Commissioner from 1962 to 1966, holding the position of Vice-
Mayor in 1965. In 1976, President Gerald Ford nominated Sidney 
M. Aronovitz to serve as a U.S. District Court Judge for the 
Southern District of Florida.
    Judge Aronovitz was commissioned on September 21, 1976, and 
served as a U.S. District Court Judge until his death in 1997. 
In addition, he periodically sat on the U.S. Court of Appeals, 
11th Circuit, and served on the U.S. Foreign Intelligence 
Surveillance Court from 1988 to 1992. During his time on the 
bench, Judge Aronovitz presided over some of Miami's most 
colorful and complex cases.
    Outside of the courtroom, Judge Aronovitz helped form 
numerous educational, religious, and health organizations in 
Dade County, Florida. The Judge Sidney M. Aronovitz Memorial 
Scholarship was formed in his honor, and is awarded yearly to 
minority students in Southern Florida wishing to continue their 
education.

 To Designate the United States Department of the Interior Building in 
Washington, District of Columbia, as the ``Stewart Lee Udall Department 
                       of the Interior Building''


                           Public Law 111-176


                              (H.R. 5128)


                              June 8, 2010

    This law designates the United States Department of the 
Interior Building located at 1849 C Street, Northwest, in 
Washington, District of Columbia, as the ``Stewart Lee Udall 
Department of the Interior Building''. Stewart Lee Udall was 
born in St. Johns, Arizona, on January 31, 1920. He is the son 
of Levi S. Udall, former Arizona Supreme Court Justice, and 
Louise Lee Udall. He attended the University of Arizona, during 
which he spent two years as a Mormon missionary. During World 
War II, Stewart L. Udall served as a gunner in the United 
States Air Force in the European theater. Upon returning to the 
University of Arizona after his military service, he received 
his law degree in 1948. Two years after graduation, Stewart L. 
Udall opened a law firm in Tucson, Arizona, with his brother 
Morris, who would later serve as a Member of Congress.
    Stewart L. Udall was elected to the U.S. House of 
Representatives and served on the Committee on Interior and 
Insular Affairs (1955-1960) and the Committee on Education and 
Labor (1955-1960).
    President John F. Kennedy appointed Representative Udall as 
Secretary of the Interior and he served in that position for 
nine years (1961-1969). Secretary Udall's leadership at the 
Department of the Interior was instrumental in crafting the 
Wilderness Act, the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, and in the 
creation of the Land and Water Conservation Fund. His 
leadership also led to the expansion of the National Park 
system to include four new national parks, six new national 
monuments, eight seashores and lakeshores, nine recreation 
areas, 20 historic sites, and 56 wildlife refuges. Secretary 
Udall was also instrumental in the passage of the National 
Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the most far-reaching 
preservation legislation ever enacted in the United States. He 
also helped create and shape the National Register of Historic 
Places, the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, and the 
Historic Preservation Fund. This framework supports nearly 
every aspect of historic preservation today. After leaving 
government service, Secretary Udall continued to contribute to 
the nation's environmental affairs as an author, historian, 
teacher, naturalist, and ambassador for the great outdoors.

 To Designate the Annex Building Under Construction for the Elbert P. 
Tuttle United States Court of Appeals Building in Atlanta, Georgia, as 
                the ``John C. Godbold Federal Building''


                           Public Law 111-234


                              (H.R. 4275)


                            August 16, 2010

    This law designates the annex building under construction 
for the Elbert P. Tuttle United States Court of Appeals 
Building at 56 Forsyth Street in Atlanta, Georgia, as the 
``John C. Godbold Federal Building.'' John C. Godbold was born 
in 1920, in Coy, Alabama. He received a Bachelor of Science 
degree from Auburn University in 1940 and attended Harvard Law 
School. His study of law was put on hiatus to serve in the 
armed forces during World War II. Following his service, 
Godbold graduated from Harvard Law School in 1948 and entered 
into private practice in Montgomery, Alabama. In 1966, Godbold 
was appointed to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit 
by President Lyndon B. Johnson. In 1981, he was appointed Chief 
Judge of the 5th Circuit. After creation of the U.S. Court of 
Appeals for the 11th Circuit in 1981, Godbold was appointed 
Chief Judge of the 11th Circuit. He is the only judge to act as 
Chief Judge of two Federal circuits. Beginning in 1987, he 
served as director of the Federal Judicial Center for three 
years before returning to the 11th Circuit for the remainder of 
his life.
    Judge Godbold received the 1996 Edward J. Devitt 
Distinguished Service to Justice Award and honorary doctorate 
degrees from Sanford, Auburn, and Stetson Universities in 1981, 
1988, and 1994, respectively. His article, Twenty Pages and 
Twenty Minutes--Effective Advocacy on Appeal, is widely read in 
American jurisprudence. Judge Godbold passed away on December 
22, 2009.

 To Designate the Federally Occupied Building Located at 1220 Echelon 
Parkway in Jackson, Mississippi, as the ``James Chaney, Andrew Goodman, 
         Michael Schwerner, and Roy K. Moore Federal Building''


                           Public Law 111-243


                              (H.R. 3562)


                           September 30, 2010

    This law designates the Federally-occupied building located 
at 1220 Echelon Parkway in Jackson, Mississippi, as the ``James 
Chaney, Andrew Goodman, Michael Schwerner and Roy K. Moore 
Federal Building''.
    James Chaney, Andrew Goodman, and Michael Schwerner were 
civil rights activists that were lynched and murdered during 
the Freedom Summer of 1964. These three activists were in 
Mississippi during the summer of 1964 after a week-long 
training on strategies for organizing African-Americans in 
Mississippi to vote. On June 21, 1964, Chaney, Goodman, and 
Schwerner drove to Longdale, Mississippi to visit the site of a 
burned church in Neshoba County.
    The three activists were arrested by the Neshoba County 
police as they were leaving the site of the burned church and 
held by the police for several hours. Later, they were released 
only to be rearrested shortly thereafter. After the second 
arrest, a Neshoba County police officer turned the three civil 
rights activists over to local members of the Ku Klux Klan. All 
three activists were murdered, and their bodies were buried in 
an earthen dam outside of Philadelphia, Mississippi. These 
events sparked a national uproar and led the Federal Government 
to call up the state's National Guard and U.S. Navy to search 
for the three men. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) 
flooded the state with 150 FBI Special Agents in an attempt to 
solve the crime and, for the first time, an FBI office was 
established in the State of Mississippi. The bodies of these 
three civil rights activists were found 44 days later buried in 
an earthen dam near Philadelphia, Mississippi. The FBI 
eventually arrested and charged eighteen suspects of which 
seven were eventually sentenced. None served more than six 
years for the crime. Over 35 years later, in 2005, the case was 
reopened and Edgar Ray Killen was charged and convicted of 
manslaughter.
    FBI Agent Roy Moore was personally picked by FBI Director 
J. Edgar Hoover to lead the investigation into the deaths of 
these young men. Agent Moore said the FBI would be there until 
it broke the back of the Ku Klux Klan, reestablished the rule 
of law at the local level, and enforced the Civil Rights Act of 
1964.
    The murder of Chaney, Goodman, and Schwerner proved to be a 
tipping point during the civil rights era that focused the 
nation's interest on racial discrimination and intimidation in 
Mississippi and helped to strengthen the nation's resolve for 
equal rights for all Americans. The law is all the more 
significant since it names the Jackson, Mississippi FBI field 
office, which was created at the behest of President Lyndon B. 
Johnson as a result of this horrific crime. These young men 
died in service to their country on a mission to demand that 
all Americans enjoy the same rights in our democracy.

Designates the Federal Building Located at 100 North Palafox Street in 
    Pensacola, Florida, as the ``Winston E. Arnow Federal Building''


                           Public Law 111-297


                              (H.R. 4387)


                           December 14, 2010

    H.R. 4387 designates the Federal building located at 100 
North Palafox Street in Pensacola, Florida, as the ``Winston E. 
Arnow Federal Building''. Pursuant to P.L. 108-288, the 
building is currently named the ``Winston E. Arnow United 
States Courthouse''. H.R. 4387 re-designates the building as a 
Federal building because there is a U.S. courthouse across the 
street from the Arnow building and the judiciary maintains that 
having two adjacent buildings designated as courthouses is 
confusing to jurors, litigants, and others.
    Winston Eugene Arnow was born in Micancopy, Florida, in 
1911. He attended the University of Florida and graduated with 
a degree in Business Administration in 1932, and later earned a 
law degree in 1933.
    Mr. Arnow began his career in private practice, but took a 
hiatus to serve in the U.S. Army during World War II as a major 
and a member of JAG Corps. He later returned to private 
practice and served as a municipal judge before President 
Lyndon B. Johnson appointed him as a U.S. District Judge. Judge 
Arnow served as the Chief Judge of the Northern District of 
Florida, stretching from Pensacola to Gainesville, from 1969 
until 1981. Judge Arnow assumed senior status in 1981 and 
continued his work on the Federal bench until his death in 
1994.
    Judicial authorities and officials viewed Judge Arnow as 
``all integrity''; he ignored criticism by doing what he 
thought was the right and proper thing to do to protect civil 
liberties. His name is now synonymous with the momentous civil 
rights period from 1969 to 1978 in northwest Florida, because 
he followed the U.S. Supreme Court mandates to ensure public 
school desegregation and improved prison conditions in the 
Escambia County jail. Judge Arnow ordered the Escambia school 
district desegregated in 1969 and in 1978 he was responsible 
for drawing up a special electoral district to ensure that the 
County Commission would have at least one black member. In 
1972, Judge Arnow's decision regarding the Naval Live Oaks 
Reservations ended a long controversial dispute over ownership 
when he declared the historic woodland in the Gulf to be owned 
by the citizens of the United States. Judge Arnow also presided 
over the nationally spotlighted trial of the Gainesville Eight.

 To Designate the Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse Located at 515 
   9th Street in Rapid City, South Dakota, as the ``Andrew W. Bogue 
            Federal Building and United States Courthouse''


                           Public Law 111-298


                              (H.R. 5651)


                           December 14, 2010

    This law designates the Federal building and U.S. 
courthouse located at 515 9th Street in Rapid City, South 
Dakota, as the ``Andrew W. Bogue Federal Building and United 
States Courthouse''.
    Andrew Bogue was born on May 23, 1919, in Yankton, South 
Dakota. After graduating from State College in Brookings, South 
Dakota, Mr. Bogue served in the U.S. Army Signal Corps during 
World War II. Upon completion of his service, he attended and 
graduated from the University of South Dakota Law School in 
1947. He went into private practice for several years before 
returning to the U.S. Army for service in the JAG Corps. After 
being discharged, he served on the South Dakota Cement 
Commission from 1957 until 1966. In 1967, Judge Bogue was 
elected a State court judge to the Second Judicial Circuit, 
where he sat for three years until his appointment as a Federal 
judge.
    Judge Andrew Bogue was nominated to the Federal bench by 
President Richard Nixon in 1970 and served for 15 years as an 
active district Federal judge before taking on senior status in 
1985. Judge Bogue served as Chief Judge from 1980 to 1985. Even 
after taking on senior status, Judge Bogue continued to hear 
cases up until a few months before his death on June 10, 2009.

 To Designate the Building Occupied by the Government Printing Office 
Located at 31451 East United Avenue in Pueblo, Colorado, as the ``Frank 
              Evans Government Printing Office Building''


                           Public Law 111-299


                              (H.R. 5706)


                           December 14, 2010

    This law designates the building occupied by the Government 
Printing Office (GPO) located at 31451 East United Avenue in 
Pueblo, Colorado, as the ``Frank Evans Government Printing 
Office Building''.
    Frank Edward Evans was born on September 6, 1923, in 
Pueblo, Colorado. He went to school in Colorado Springs before 
attending Pomona College in 1941. He disrupted his studies to 
serve as a U.S. Navy pilot during World War II. After 
completion of his service, Mr. Evans attended the University of 
Denver, graduating with a bachelor's degree, and then received 
his law degree in 1950. After graduating from law school, Evans 
went into private practice in Pueblo, Colorado, and was elected 
to the Colorado State House of Representatives in 1960. In 
1964, Evans was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, 
where he served Colorado's 3rd Congressional District for seven 
terms until his retirement in 1978. Representative Evans is 
credited with bringing the Government Printing Office 
Distribution Center to Pueblo, Colorado. Representative Frank 
Edwards Evans died on June 8, 2010.

To Designate the Federal Building Located at 6401 Security Boulevard in 
      Baltimore, Maryland, Commonly Known as the Social Security 
  Administration Operations Building, as the ``Robert M. Ball Federal 
                               Building''


                           Public Law 111-301


                              (H.R. 5773)


                           December 14, 2010

    This law designates the Federal building located at 6401 
Security Boulevard in Baltimore, Maryland, commonly known as 
the Social Security Administration Operations Building, as the 
``Robert M. Ball Federal Building''.
    Commissioner Robert M. Ball was the longest-serving head of 
the Social Security Administration (SSA) and one its staunchest 
supporters throughout the Administration's long history. 
Commissioner Ball was often described in press accounts as not 
only the longest-serving Social Security Commissioner, but also 
as chief advocate and defender of the SSA through the years. 
Commissioner Ball joined the SSA just four years after it was 
created by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
    Robert M. Ball was born in New York, New York, on March 28, 
1914. He graduated from Wesleyan University in 1935 with a 
Bachelor of Arts in English and in 1936 obtained a Masters 
degree in Economics. Commissioner Ball got his start with the 
SSA as a field assistant in New Jersey in 1939. He then began 
his rise through the ranks at SSA by helping to implement the 
disability insurance program beginning in 1956, orchestrating 
the developments that produced the 1972 amendments to link 
benefits to inflation, and helping to develop and implement 
Medicare. From 1947 to 1948, he served as Staff Director for 
the Senate Finance Committee's Advisory Council. After his time 
on Capitol Hill, Commissioner Ball returned to the SSA and 
served in several positions before he was appointed as 
Commissioner by President John F. Kennedy in 1962.
    Commissioner Ball went on to be appointed as Commissioner 
under President Lyndon B. Johnson twice and later served under 
President Richard M. Nixon. After Commissioner Ball left the 
SSA, he continued to have a significant role in shaping the 
program. In 1981, he served as a Member of the National 
Commission on Social Security Reform, arguing for a mix of tax 
increases and benefit cuts to maintain the viability of the 
Social Security trust fund. Commissioner Ball remained an 
outspoken opponent of any attempts to dismantle Social Security 
or privatize Social Security throughout the 1990s. One 
historian described Commissioner Ball as ``the major non-
Congressional player in the history of Social Security in the 
period between 1950 and the present.'' Commissioner Robert M. 
Ball died on January 29, 2008, and is survived by his wife of 
71 years, Doris McCord Ball.

 Authorizing the Use of the Capitol Grounds for the Greater Washington 
                             Soap Box Derby


                           (H. Con. Res. 37)


                             March 12, 2009

    H. Con. Res. 37 authorizes the use of the Capitol grounds 
for the Greater Washington Soap Box Derby.

   Authorizing the Use of the Capitol Grounds for the National Peace 
                       Officers' Memorial Service


                           (H. Con. Res. 38)


                              May 12, 2009

    H. Con. Res. 38 authorizes the use of the Capitol grounds 
for the National Peace Officers' Memorial Service.

Authorizing the Use of the Capitol Grounds for the District of Columbia 
               Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run


                           (H. Con. Res. 39)


                             March 17, 2009

    H. Con. Res. 39 authorizes the use of the Capitol grounds 
for the District of Columbia Special Olympics Law Enforcement 
Torch Run.

   Authorizing the Use of the Capitol Grounds for an Event To Honor 
Military Personnel Who Have Died in Service to the United States and To 
Acknowledge the Sacrifice of the Families of Those Individuals as Part 
                 of the National Weekend of Remembrance


                           (H. Con. Res. 171)


                             August 5, 2009

    H. Con. Res. 171 permits the White House Commission on 
Remembrance to sponsor a free public event on the Capitol 
grounds on September 26, 2009, to honor military personnel who 
have died in service to the United States, and to acknowledge 
the sacrifice of their families as part of the National Weekend 
of Remembrance.

 Authorizing the Use of the Capitol Grounds for the Greater Washington 
                             Soap Box Derby


                           (H. Con. Res. 247)


                              May 7, 2010

    H. Con. Res. 247 permits the Greater Washington Soap Box 
Derby Association to sponsor soap box derby races as a free 
public event on the Capitol grounds on June 19, 2010.

Authorizing the Use of the Capitol Grounds for the District of Columbia 
               Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run


                           (H. Con. Res. 263)


                              May 7, 2010

    H. Con. Res. 263 authorizes the use of the Capitol grounds 
for the 25th Annual District of Columbia Special Olympics Law 
Enforcement Torch Run on June 4, 2010.

   Authorizing the Use of the Capitol Grounds for the National Peace 
                       Officers' Memorial Service


                           (H. Con. Res. 264)


                             April 29, 2010

    H. Con. Res. 264 permits the Grand Lodge of the Fraternal 
Order of Police and its auxiliary to sponsor a free public 
event, the 29th annual National Peace Officers' Memorial 
Service, on the Capitol grounds on May 15, 2010, to honor the 
law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty during 
2009.

  Commending the Heroic Efforts of the People Fighting the Floods in 
                       North Dakota and Minnesota


                             (H. Res. 415)


                              May 12, 2009

    H. Res. 415 commends the heroic efforts of the people 
fighting the floods in North Dakota and Minnesota.

Expressing Condolences to the Families of the Individuals Killed During 
Unusual Storms and Floods in the State of Georgia Between September 18 
    and 21, 2009, and Expressing Gratitude to All of the Emergency 
 Personnel Who Continue to Work with Unyielding Determination to Meet 
                    the Needs of Georgia's Residents


                             (H. Res. 765)


                           September 23, 2009

    H. Res. 765 extends condolences to the families of those 
who lost their lives, and to families who lost their homes and 
other property, in the floods in Georgia. In addition, H. Res. 
765 thanks the people of Georgia and the surrounding states who 
continued to work to protect people from the floodwaters, and 
expresses support for Federal Emergency Management Agency 
(FEMA) efforts to respond to needs of affected citizens and 
communities. It also honors the emergency responders for their 
bravery and sacrifice.

      Honoring the Heroism of the Seven United States Agency for 
International Development, Office of U.S. Foreign Disaster Assistance, 
  and Federal Emergency Management Agency Supported Urban Search and 
 Rescue Teams Deployed to Haiti From New York City, New York, Fairfax 
 County, Virginia, Los Angeles County, California, the City of Miami, 
Florida, Miami-Dade County, Florida, and Virginia Beach, Virginia, and 
  Commending Their Dedication and Assistance in the Aftermath of the 
                  January 12, 2010, Haitian Earthquake


                             (H. Res. 1059)


                           February 23, 2010

    H. Res. 1059 honors the United States Agency for 
International Development, Office of U.S. Foreign Disaster 
Assistance, and Federal Emergency Management Agency-supported 
urban search and rescue teams that were deployed to Haiti in 
the aftermath of the January 12, 2010, Haitian earthquake.

Expressing the Sympathy and Condolences of the House of Representatives 
 to Those People Affected by the Flooding in Tennessee, Kentucky, and 
                        Mississippi in May, 2010


                             (H. Res. 1337)


                              May 13, 2010

    H. Res. 1337 expresses condolences to the families of those 
who lost their lives or property as the result of flooding 
beginning on May 2, 2010, in Tennessee, Kentucky, and 
Mississippi. In addition, it expresses appreciation to the 
people of Tennessee and the surrounding States who continue to 
work to protect people from the floodwaters and aid in recovery 
efforts and support to FEMA as it continues to respond to needs 
of the affected communities. Finally, H. Res. 1337 honors the 
emergency responders across Tennessee for their bravery and 
sacrifice.

    Resolution Observing the Fifth Anniversary of the Date on Which 
 Hurricane Rita Devastated the Coasts of Louisiana and Texas, and for 
                             Other Purposes


                             (H. Res. 1583)


                           September 15, 2010

    H. Res. 1583 observes the fifth anniversary of the date on 
which Hurricane Rita devastated the coasts of Louisiana and 
Texas, remembers those lost in the storm and in the process of 
evacuation, recovery, and rebuilding; salutes the dedication of 
the volunteers who offered assistance in support of those 
affected by the storm; recognizes the progress of efforts to 
rebuild the affected Gulf Coast region; commends the 
persistence of the people of the States of Louisiana and Texas 
following the second major hurricane to hit the Gulf Coast that 
season, and reaffirms Congress' commitment to restore and renew 
the Gulf Coast region.

                         Highways and Transit 


              Hiring Incentives To Restore Employment Act


                          Public Law 111-147 


                              (Title IV) 


                              (H.R. 2847) 


                            March 18, 2010 

    The HIRE Act extends Federal highway, highway safety, 
public transportation, motor carrier safety, surface 
transportation research programs and policies authorized by 
SAFETEA-LU through December 31, 2010. Authorizations for these 
programs were set to expire on March 28, 2010.

                    Temporary Extension Act of 2010


                          Public Law 111-144 


                              (H.R. 4691) 


                             March 2, 2010 

    The Temporary Extension Act of 2010 extended a number of 
Federal programs, including the Federal highway, highway 
safety, public transportation, motor carrier safety, surface 
transportation research programs, and policies authorized by 
the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation 
Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU). These programs and 
policies, which had been scheduled to expire on September 29, 
2009, were extended through February 28, 2010 by three 
Continuing Resolutions. The Temporary Extension Act of 2010 
extends these programs and policies from the date of enactment 
through March 28, 2010. Funding for these programs and policies 
has subsequently been provided through passage of P.L. 111-147, 
the Hiring Incentives to Restore Employment (HIRE) Act, on 
March 18, 2010. Currently, these funds will continue through 
December 31, 2010.

                    Continuing Extension Act of 2010


                          Public Law 111-157 


                              (section 8) 


                              (H.R. 4851) 


                         (See also H.R. 4786) 


                            April 15, 2010 

    This law includes a provision to compensate Federal 
employees furloughed as a result of the lapse in expenditure 
authority from the Highway Trust Fund beginning on February 28, 
2010 at midnight and lasting through March 2, 2010. Furloughs 
affected nearly 2,000 employees at the Federal Highway 
Administration, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety 
Administration, the National Highway Traffic Safety 
Administration and the Research and Innovative Technology 
Administration that are funded by the Highway Trust Fund.
    This law also ratified and approved all actions taken by 
Federal employees, contractors, and grantees during that period 
of lapse to: (1) maintain the essential level of government 
operations, services, and activities to protect life and 
property; and (2) bring about orderly termination of government 
functions.

         Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2010, Part II


                          Public Law 111-322 


                              (Title II) 


                              (H.R. 3082) 


                           December 22, 2010 

    The Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2010, Part II, 
(STEA of 2010 Part II) extends--through March 4, 2011--the 
authority for surface transportation programs originally 
authorized under SAFETEA-LU through September 30, 2009, and 
subsequently extended through December 31, 2010. Specifically, 
STEA of 2010 Part II extends all the provisions of SAFETEA-LU 
(or its extensions) that otherwise would have expired on or 
ceased to apply after December 31, 2010.
    STEA of 2010 Part II continues, through March 4, 2011, to 
provide funding at fiscal year 2009 levels (as authorized in 
SAFETEA-LU). This provides, for the period beginning on January 
1, 2011, and ending on March 4, 2011, a total of $9.564 billion 
for highway, highway safety, motor carrier safety, and transit 
programs, including the following amounts: $7.500 billion for 
highway programs, $1.839 billion for transit programs, $129 
million for highway safety programs, and $96 million for motor 
carrier safety programs. This funding will allow States and 
local governments to carry out important capital and 
operational programs, projects and activities, pending 
enactment of a multiyear law reauthorizing the Federal surface 
transportation programs.
    As in prior SAFETEA-LU extensions, STEA of 2010 Part II 
distributes ``bonus'' formula funds in lieu of additional 
highway or transit program earmarks. The law provides each 
State with a pro-rated amount of bonus funding that is equal to 
the amount that the State received in fiscal year 2009 to carry 
out the High Priority Projects program, Transportation 
Improvements, the Maglev program, Highway Bridge Program set-
asides, Projects of National and Regional Significance, and the 
National Corridor Infrastructure Improvement program. Prior 
extensions distributed each State's share of these bonus funds 
among six of the 13 State highway formula programs. STEA of 
2010 Part II instead distributes these funds among all 13 
programs. The law requires the Federal Highway Administration 
to administer all bonus funds in the same manner and with the 
same period of availability as other funding that the States 
receive under each of these formula programs.
    In addition to these provisions, STEA of 2010 Part II 
extends through August 2012 the SAFETEA-LU-authorized Surface 
Transportation Project Delivery Pilot Program. This program, 
which was otherwise scheduled to expire in August 2011, allows 
five designated States to assume many of the Secretary of 
Transportation's responsibilities under the National 
Environmental Policy Act. Finally, STEA of 2010 Part II grants 
the Secretary of Transportation authority to implement the 
results of the future strategic highway research program.

               Pedestrian Safety Enhancement Act of 2010


                           Public Law 111-__


                               (S. 841) 


                             January 2011 

    This law directs the Secretary of Transportation to study 
and establish a motor vehicle safety standard that provides a 
means of alerting blind and other pedestrians of the presence 
of a motor vehicle operation for otherwise silent vehicles, 
such as hybrids. The law directs $2 million of the amounts 
appropriated to the Department under safety belt performance 
grants to develop and implement the new standards.

       Supporting the Goals of Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month


                             (H. Res. 269) 


                              May 5, 2009 

    H. Res. 269 expresses the House of Representatives' support 
for the goals of Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month and brings 
much needed attention to motorcycle safety on our nation's 
roadways. Motorcycles are a fuel-efficient and congestion-
decreasing mode of transportation and are a valuable component 
of our transportation system. This increasingly popular mode of 
transportation also requires greater attention to the safety 
concerns associated with riding. Public awareness of motorcycle 
safety benefits everyone that uses our nation's roadways, not 
just motorcyclists, because it can lead to a decrease in car-
motorcycle crashes.

  Expressing Support for Designation of November 29, 2009 as ``Drive 
                             Safer Sunday''


                             (H. Res. 841) 


                           November 17, 2009 

    H. Res. 841 expresses support for the designation of 
November 29, 2009 as ``Drive Safer Sunday.'' This resolution 
highlights the dangers posed by unsafe driving, including 
distracted driving, and encourages administrators and teachers 
at high schools and colleges to launch campus-wide educational 
campaigns to urge students to be careful about safety when 
driving. It also encourages national trucking firms to alert 
their drivers to be especially focused on driving safely during 
the heaviest traffic day of the year, and to publicize the 
importance of the day using Citizen's Band radios and in truck 
stops across the nation. Finally, this resolution urges all 
Americans to use this as an opportunity to educate themselves 
about highway safety and the dangers of distracted driving.

    Recognizing the Grand Concourse on its 100th Anniversary as the 
 Preeminent Thoroughfare in the Borough of the Bronx and an Important 
         Nexus of Commerce and Culture for the City of New York


                             (H. Res. 907) 


                           December 8, 2009 

    H. Res. 907 recognizes the Grand Concourse on its 100th 
anniversary as the preeminent thoroughfare in the borough of 
the Bronx, and its roles as an important nexus of commerce and 
culture for the City of New York. Designed by Louis Aloys Risse 
and opened in 1909, this tree-lined thoroughfare was first 
conceived of in 1890 as a means of connecting the borough of 
Manhattan to the northern Bronx. Over the course of its 100 
years, the Grand Concourse has played a long-standing role in 
defining the Bronx community, and serving as the central north-
south artery of the borough. For over four miles, the Grand 
Concourse is lined by several parks, fountains, and other 
pedestrian-friendly community treasures.

  Recognizing the Florida Keys Scenic Highway on the Occasion of its 
     Designation as an All-American Road by the U.S. Department of 
                             Transportation


                             (H. Res. 917) 


                            March 24, 2010 

    H. Res. 917 recognizes the Florida Keys Scenic Highway on 
the occasion of its designation as an All-American Road by the 
DOT and congratulates those residents of the Florida Keys who 
participated in the effort to support this designation.

  Expressing Support for Designation of April as National Distracted 
                        Driving Awareness Month


                            (H. Res. 1186) 


                            March 23, 2010 

    H. Res. 1186 expresses support for the designation of April 
as Distracted Driving Awareness month; encourages all people in 
the United States to consider the lives of others on the road 
and avoid distracted driving; and requests the Clerk of the 
House to transmit a copy of the resolution to FocusDriven, an 
advocacy group for victims of motor vehicle crashes involving 
drivers using cell phones.

             Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials


         Supporting the Goals and Ideals of National Train Day


                             (H. Res. 367) 


                              May 6, 2009 

    H. Res. 367 recognizes the House of Representatives' 
support for National Train Day and the contribution that trains 
make to the national transportation system. May 9, 2009 is 
designated as National Train Day because it marked the 140th 
anniversary of the ``golden spike'' being driven into the final 
tie at Promontory Summit, Utah, to complete the first 
transcontinental railroad.

    H. Res. 484, Expressing Support for Designation of June 10th as 
                    ``National Pipeline Safety Day''


                             (H. Res. 484) 


                             June 9, 2009 

    H. Res. 484 expresses support for the designation of June 
10th as ``National Pipeline Safety Day''; encourages State and 
local governments, safety groups, industry, and other pipeline 
stakeholders to promote pipeline safety; and urges individuals 
across the nation to become more aware of the pipelines that 
run through their communities, and to take appropriate safety 
measures to prevent damage to underground pipelines.

           Expressing Support for National Safe Digging Month


                            (H. Res. 1278) 


                              May 5, 2010 

    H. Res. 1278 expresses support for the designation of April 
2010 as National Safe Digging Month, and encourages all 
homeowners and excavators to call 811 before conducting any 
digging or excavation activities to prevent fatalities, 
injuries, environmental damage, and loss of critical 
infrastructure and services. According to the DOT's Pipeline 
and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, excavation 
damage continues to be a leading cause of serious pipeline 
incidents. More than 256,000 underground utility lines are 
damaged during excavation each year in the United States; 37.5 
percent of which are the result of not calling before digging.

         Supporting the Goals and Ideals of National Train Day


                            (H. Res. 1301) 


                              May 5, 2010 

    H. Res. 367 recognizes the House of Representatives' 
support for National Train Day and the contribution that trains 
make to the national transportation system. May 8, 2010, is 
designated by Amtrak as National Train Day because it marks the 
141st anniversary of passenger rail service in the United 
States and commemorates the day that the first transcontinental 
railroad was created. On May 10, 1869, in Promontory Summit, 
Utah, the golden spike was driven into the final tie that 
joined 1,776 miles of the Central Pacific and Union Pacific 
railways, transforming America by creating the nation's first 
transcontinental railroad.

    Recognizing and Honoring the Freight Railroad Industry and Its 
                               Employees


                            (H. Res. 1366) 


                             July 27, 2010 

    H. Res. 1366 recognizes and honors the freight railroad 
industry and its employees; recognizes its important 
contributions to the national transportation system; and 
supports the efforts of the freight rail industry and its 
employees to continue improving safety as our nation moves 
forward with developing its infrastructure.
    Freight railroads have a long and important history in the 
United States. As early as 1827, freight railroads have aided 
in the expansion and development of this nation, its 
infrastructure and its economy. The first common-carrier 
railroad in North America, the Baltimore & Ohio (B&O) Railroad, 
was chartered by the State of Maryland in 1827. The B&O 
continued to operate until 1963, when the Chesapeake and Ohio 
Railway took control of the railroad; today, it operates as 
part of CSX Transportation. The B&O was preceded by a few other 
freight railroads including the Granite Railway in 
Massachusetts, which began operations in 1826, and the Mohawk & 
Hudson Railroad in New York, which was created in 1826 and 
began operations in 1831.
    Since 1830, freight rail has been instrumental in bringing 
American goods to markets both nationally and internationally. 
Today, 43 percent of all intercity freight volume is moved by 
freight rail. Over the past three decades, freight railroads 
have nearly doubled the amount of cargo they ship with 
virtually no increase in fuel consumption. Freight railroads 
are one of the most fuel-efficient modes of transportation; 
they are able to move one ton of freight 480 miles using only 
one gallon of diesel fuel. One train can take 280 trucks off 
the road, the equivalent of 1,100 automobiles.
    Today, the freight rail industry is comprised of more than 
560 railroad companies that operate on 140,000 miles of track 
across the nation. Freight rail carries more than 2.2 billion 
tons of freight annually. The freight rail industry employs 
more than 183,000 people. Since 1980, the freight railroad 
industry has reinvested $460 billion in revenue toward 
equipment, maintenance, and rail expansion, which has supported 
employment and economic activity throughout the United States. 
For every dollar invested in freight rail capacity, the 
national economy experiences $3 in economic output.

       Supporting the Goals and Ideals of Railroad Retirement Day


                            (H. Res. 1463) 


                             July 20, 2010 

    H. Res. 1463 supports the goals and ideals of Railroad 
Retirement Day, as designated by the U.S. Railroad Retirement 
Board; recognizes the important contributions that the rail 
industry, rail workers, and railroad retirees make to the 
national transportation system; and urges the people of the 
United States to recognize Railroad Retirement Day (August 29, 
2010) as an opportunity to celebrate the success and importance 
of the railroad retirement system to America's working 
families. By the beginning of its 75th year, in 2010, railroad 
retirement benefits had been provided to two million retired 
employees, 1.1 million spouses, and 2.4 million survivors. 
Additional unemployment and sickness benefits have been paid to 
railroad workers who were laid off or injured on the job.

                    Water Resources and Environment 


  To Amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to Clarify Federal 
                Responsibility for Stormwater Pollution


                           Public Law 111-__


                               (S. 3481) 


                             January 2011 

    This legislation amends section 313 of the Federal Water 
Pollution Control Act (Clean Water Act) to clarify that 
reasonable service charges for addressing pollution from 
Federal facilities include reasonable and nondiscriminatory 
fees, charges, or assessments that are based on the proportion 
of stormwater emanating from the facility and used to pay (or 
reimburse) costs associated with any stormwater management 
program.

  To Modify the Date on Which the Administrator of the Environmental 
    Protection Agency and Applicable States May Require Permits for 
                    Discharges From Certain Vessels


                          Public Law 111-215 


                               (S. 3372) 


                         (See also H.R. 5301) 


                             July 30, 2010 

    This law extends the period during which the Administrator 
of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and States are 
prohibited from requiring a permit under section 402 of the 
Clean Water Act for discharges that are incidental to the 
normal operation of certain commercial vessels. In July 2008, 
Congress enacted P.L. 110-299, a two-year moratorium of 
requirements that an owner or an operator of a fishing vessel 
or a vessel less than 79 feet in length must obtain a Clean 
Water Act permit for discharges incidental to the normal 
operation of such vessel. P.L. 110-299 also required that the 
EPA and the United States Coast Guard jointly conduct a study 
on the impacts of such discharges on water quality. The results 
of this study would guide the EPA in developing a permitting 
program for these discharges. The two-year moratorium expired 
on July 31, 2010. While initial study results showed that the 
effects of such discharges are not benign, EPA was continuing 
to evaluate the results of the study, and was not in a position 
to develop and issue guidelines to properly address such 
discharges. S. 3372 extends the permitting moratorium through 
December 18, 2013.

  To Amend the Water Resources Development Act of 2000 To Extend and 
  Modify the Program Allowing the Secretary of the Army To Accept and 
Expend Funds Contributed by Non-Federal Public Entities To Expedite the 
             Evaluation of Permits, and for Other Purposes.


                          Public Law 111-315 


                              (H.R. 6184) 


                           December 18, 2010 

    The law amends section 214 of the Water Resources 
Development Act of 2000 to extend the authority of the 
Secretary of the Army to accept funds from non-Federal public 
entities for the consideration of permits under the Clean Water 
Act and the Rivers and Harbors Appropriation Act of 1899 
through December 31, 2016. This authority was set to expire on 
December 31, 2010.
    In addition, this law amends the permit review authority of 
section 214 to reduce the potential ``conflict of interests'' 
inherent in the program by: (1) clarifying that the authority 
can only be used by a public entity to review permits related 
to projects or activities for a public purpose; (2) requiring a 
formal, higher-order review of permits considered under this 
authority; and (3) ensuring that information on individual 
permits reviewed under the 214 authority be made publicly 
available, including on the Internet.

To Extend Through December 31, 2010, the Authority of the Secretary of 
 the Army To Accept and Expend Funds Contributed by Non-Federal Public 
             Entities To Expedite the Processing of Permits


                          Public Law 111-120 


                              (H.R. 4165) 


                           December 22, 2009 

    This law extends through December 31, 2010, the authority 
of the Secretary of the Army to accept funds from non-Federal 
public entities for the consideration of permits under the 
Federal Water Pollution Control Act (Clean Water Act) and the 
Rivers and Harbor Act of 1899. This authority, enacted as 
section 214 of the Water Resources Development Act of 2000, was 
set to expire on December 31, 2009.

   Recognizing the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway Association on the 
        Occasion of Its 10th Anniversary, and for Other Purposes


                             (H. Res. 465) 


                           October 14, 2009 

    H. Res. 465 recognizes the importance of the Atlantic 
Intracoastal Waterway and commends the Atlantic Intracoastal 
Waterway Association on the occasion of its 10th anniversary.

 Recognizing the Contributions of the National Waterways Conference on 
      the Occasion of Its 50th Anniversary, and for Other Purposes


                            (H. Res. 1639) 


                          September 28, 2010 

    H. Res. 1639 recognizes the value of the U.S. Army Corps of 
Engineers and its civil works mission to the economic 
prosperity and sustainable environmental health of the nation; 
recognizes the contributions of the National Waterways 
Conference on the formulation of the nation's water resources-
related policies and programs for the Corps' civil works 
mission and its advocacy for continued and increased investment 
in meeting the water resources needs of the nation; and 
commends the National Waterways Conference on the occasion of 
its 50th anniversary.

  

                       Summary of Activities for

           the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure

    In the 111th Congress, the Committee on Transportation and 
Infrastructure, chaired by Representative James L. Oberstar, 
with Representative John L. Mica serving as Ranking Member, 
held 22 Full Committee hearings (185 witnesses and 
approximately 126 hours), covering the breadth of issues within 
the jurisdiction of the Committee.
    The legislative and oversight activities of the Committee 
are outlined in the subcommittee and oversight chapters of this 
report. However, the Committee enacted several bills and 
resolutions which involve the jurisdiction of multiple 
subcommittees.
    The Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, in 
coordination with the Committee on Appropriations, developed 
H.R. 1, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 
(Recovery Act) (P.L. 111-5) to address the greatest economic 
recession since the Great Depression. The Recovery Act provided 
$64.1 billion of infrastructure investment for programs within 
the jurisdiction of the Committee on Transportation and 
Infrastructure, including: $27.5 billion for highways and 
bridges; $8.4 billion for public transit; $9.3 billion for 
passenger rail; $1.5 billion for competitive surface 
transportation grants; $1.3 billion for aviation; $5.26 billion 
for environmental infrastructure; $4.6 billion for the U.S. 
Army Corps of Engineers; $5.575 billion for Federal buildings; 
$150 million for the Economic Development Administration; $210 
million for Firefighter Assistance Grants; $240 million for 
Coast Guard facilities and bridge alterations; and $100 million 
for Maritime Administration Small Shipyard Grants. The Recovery 
Act generally required these funds to be invested in ready-to-
go projects and required unprecedented transparency and 
accountability provisions.
    The Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure also 
developed major legislation, H.R. 915, the ``FAA 
Reauthorization Act of 2009'', to reauthorize the Federal 
Aviation Administration (FAA) and provide $53.5 billion over 
three years for FAA programs. On May 21, 2009, the House passed 
H.R. 915 by a roll call vote of 277-136.
    In addition, the Committee developed major legislation, 
H.R. __, the ``Surface Transportation Authorization Act of 
2009'', to reauthorize Federal surface transportation programs 
and provide $450 billion over six years for surface 
transportation programs and $50 billion for development of 
high-speed rail. On June 24, 2009, the Subcommittee reported 
the bill favorably to the Committee by voice vote. No further 
action was taken on this legislation.
    The following bills and resolutions were enacted in the 
111th Congress:
           Public Law 111-5, the American Recovery and 
        Reinvestment Act of 2009,
           Public Law 111-191, to Amend the Oil 
        Pollution Act of 1990 to Authorize Advances from Oil 
        Spill Liability Trust Fund for the Deepwater Horizon 
        Oil Spill,
           Public Law 111-__, the Ike Skelton National 
        Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2011,
           Public Law 111-84, the National Defense 
        Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010,
           H. Res. 313, supporting the goals and ideals 
        of National Public Works Week,
           H. Res. 722, expressing the sense of the 
        House of Representatives regarding the terrorist 
        attacks launched against the United States on September 
        11, 2001,
           H. Res. 1085, honoring and celebrating the 
        contributions of African-Americans to the 
        transportation and infrastructure of the United States, 
        and
           H. Res. 1610, expressing the sense of the 
        House of Representatives regarding the terrorist 
        attacks launched against the United States on September 
        11, 2001.
    Other bills that passed the House include:
           H.R. 3534, Title VII, the ``Oil Spill 
        Accountability and Environmental Protection Act of 
        2010''.
    More than 85 other Committee bills and resolutions enacted 
in the 111th Congress are outlined in the subcommittee chapters 
of this report.
    The Committee conducted active oversight and investigation 
of the activities of government entities and programs under its 
jurisdiction. The Committee placed a strong emphasis on 
oversight and conducted numerous investigations to ensure that 
Federal agencies and entities under the Committee's 
jurisdiction were appropriately implementing laws and programs 
consistent with statutory intent. The Committee investigated 
numerous instances involving failures of Executive Branch 
agencies to properly enforce regulations or appropriately 
oversee the industries within their purview, as well as issues 
involving agency mismanagement. The Committee investigated ways 
to improve the overall operation of such agencies and eliminate 
waste, fraud, abuse, or mismanagement. The Committee was deeply 
committed to reviewing and altering agency programs with the 
intent of ensuring that ineffective expenditures are eliminated 
and that taxpayers receive the full value of every Federal 
investment dollar.
    The Committee aggressively reviewed program implementation 
to ensure that Federal agencies, and their state and local 
partners, were appropriately implementing laws consistent with 
statutory intent and the best needs of the public. The 
commitment is not to programs, but to the goals and objectives 
that best serve the needs of the American people in an 
efficient, fiscally responsible way. To that end, the Committee 
developed multiple proposals to improve the operation of 
government, including opportunities to reduce expenditures and 
the deficit. Because many of the programs within the 
Committee's jurisdiction are implemented in partnership with 
state and local governments, the Committee pursued improvements 
at all levels of government.
    While the Committee continues to conduct oversight of 
agency programs in all areas of its jurisdiction, in the 111th 
Congress, the Committee focused its efforts on overseeing the 
implementation of the Recovery Act.
    The Recovery Act provided $64.1 billion for programs within 
the jurisdiction of the Committee on Transportation and 
Infrastructure, including $38 billion for highway, transit, and 
wastewater infrastructure formula programs. Following enactment 
of the Recovery Act, the Committee performed vigorous 
oversight, to ensure that the funds provided were invested 
quickly, efficiently, and in harmony with the job-creating 
purposes of the Act.
    Just 10 days following enactment of the Recovery Act, the 
Committee requested monthly reports from States, major public 
transit agencies, and metropolitan planning organizations on 
the use of highway, transit, and wastewater infrastructure 
formula funds provided under the Recovery Act. The Committee 
received those reports throughout the 111th Congress.
    The Committee's request exceeded the transparency and 
accountability requirements of the Recovery Act, expanding the 
scope of programs covered by the reporting requirements, and 
accelerating the deadline by which information was reported. 
These reports included information on the number of projects 
that have been put out to bid, are under contract and under 
way, and have been completed. The information also included job 
hours created or saved and payroll figures. The Committee also 
received monthly reports from Federal agencies implementing 
Recovery Act programs under the Committee's jurisdiction.
    Beginning in April 2009, the Committee published a monthly 
report reflecting this information. All released information 
was published at the Recovery Act section of the Committee's 
website: http://transportation.house.gov.
    Of the $38 billion available for highway, transit, and 
wastewater infrastructure formula program projects under the 
Recovery Act, as of November 30, 2010, $35.8 billion (94 
percent) has been put out to bid on 20,318 projects. Within 
this total, 19,932 projects totaling $35 billion (92 percent) 
are under contract. Across the nation, work has begun on 19,543 
projects totaling $35 billion (92 percent)--work producing 
badly needed jobs today. Within this total, work has been 
completed on 11,316 projects totaling $10 billion (27 percent). 
From these investments, not only has the economy benefited from 
the jobs created, the public benefits from the improved 
transportation and quality of the environment provided by the 
investment.
    In addition to the monthly reporting, the Committee held 19 
oversight hearings on the Recovery Act since enactment of the 
law. This total includes 10 Full Committee hearings and nine 
subcommittee hearings. These 19 hearings included a total of 
134 witnesses and spanned nearly 69 hours. The breadth of 
witnesses included Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood, 
Administrator of Environmental Protection Lisa Jackson, 
Assistant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works) Jo-Ellen Darcy, 
as well as other Federal, state, and local government 
officials, economists, private industry leaders, and workers 
actively engaged in implementing the Recovery Act.

                      Public Laws and Resolutions


             American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009


                            Public Law 111-5


                                (H.R. 1)


                           February 17, 2009

    The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (Recovery Act) 
(P.L. 111-5) provided $64.1 billion of infrastructure 
investment for programs within the jurisdiction of the 
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, including: 
$27.5 billion for highways and bridges; $8.4 billion for public 
transit; $9.3 billion for passenger rail; $1.5 billion for 
competitive surface transportation grants; $1.3 billion for 
aviation; $5.26 billion for environmental infrastructure; $4.6 
billion for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; $5.575 billion 
for Federal buildings; $150 million for the Economic 
Development Administration; $210 million for Firefighter 
Assistance Grants; $240 million for Coast Guard facilities and 
bridge alterations; and $100 million for Maritime 
Administration Small Shipyard Grants.
    The Recovery Act generally required these funds to be 
invested in ready-to-go projects. Section 1602 of the Recovery 
Act required States and other grant recipients to give 
preference to projects that could be started and completed 
expeditiously, including a goal of using at least 50 percent of 
the funds for projects that could be initiated not later than 
120 days (June 17, 2009) after the date of enactment. In 
addition, several transportation programs had specific 
deadlines to invest a percentage of the funds. For example, for 
Federal-aid Highway formula funds, 50 percent of State-
administered funds had to be obligated within 120 days (June 
30, 2009) of the date of apportionment and all funds had to be 
obligated within one year (March 2, 2010) of the date of 
apportionment. For transit formula grants, 50 percent of funds 
had to be obligated within 180 days (September 1, 2009) of the 
date of apportionment and all funds had to be obligated within 
one year (March 5, 2010) of the date of apportionment. Funding 
provided for passenger rail also had to be obligated by a 
specified date. The $8 billion provided for development of 
high-speed and intercity passenger rail must be obligated by 
September 30, 2014, and the $1.3 billion provided for capital 
improvements to the National Railroad Passenger Corporation 
(Amtrak) had to be obligated by September 30, 2010, with the 
exception of $5 million provided to the Amtrak Office of 
Inspector General which remains available through September 30, 
2013.
    The Recovery Act created ``green collar'' jobs and invested 
in projects that decreased our dependence on foreign oil and 
addressed global climate change. The Act provided $4.5 billion 
for High-Performance Green Federal buildings to fund projects 
that incorporate energy and water conservation elements, such 
as installing photovoltaic roofs and geothermal technology. In 
addition, the Recovery Act provided a significant investment in 
public transit, high-speed rail, intercity passenger rail, and 
Amtrak projects to provide alternatives to traveling by car, 
and help public transit and intercity passenger rail providers 
increase the percentage of their fleets that are alternative 
fuel vehicles. Finally, the Recovery Act directed that 20 
percent of each State's Clean Water State Revolving Fund 
allotment be used for investments in energy and water efficient 
techniques and technologies (i.e., green infrastructure). The 
Recovery Act also required the steel, iron, and manufactured 
goods for these projects to be produced in the United States.
    The Recovery Act required the Governor of each State to 
certify that: the State would request and use funds provided by 
the Recovery Act and the funds would be used to create jobs and 
promote economic growth; the State would maintain its effort 
with regard to State funding for transportation projects; and 
the Governor accepted responsibility that the infrastructure 
investment is an appropriate use of taxpayer dollars.
    Finally, the Recovery Act ensured transparency and 
accountability by including regular reporting requirements to 
track the use of the funds, State investments, and the 
estimated number of jobs created or sustained. Pursuant to 
section 1512 of the Act, States and other direct grant 
recipients provided quarterly reports (beginning October 10, 
2009) to the Federal agency that provided the funds on the 
total amount of recovery funds received; the amount of such 
funds that were expended or obligated; a detailed list of all 
projects or activities for which recovery funds were expended 
or obligated, including the name and description of the 
project, an evaluation of the completion status of the project, 
and an estimate of the number of jobs created or sustained by 
the project; and, for infrastructure investments made by State 
and local governments, the purpose, total cost, and rationale 
of the agency for funding the infrastructure investment. This 
information was made publicly available through Recovery.gov.
    Section 1201 of the Recovery Act required additional 
reporting requirements for funds administered by the U.S. 
Department of Transportation (DOT). Under this provision, each 
State and other grant recipient submitted periodic reports to 
DOT on the use of Recovery Act funds provided for highway, 
public transit, rail, surface transportation, airport, and 
maritime programs. The States and other grant recipients 
reported: the amount of Federal funds obligated and outlayed; 
the number of projects that have been put out to bid, and the 
amount of Federal funds associated with such projects; the 
number of projects for which contracts have been awarded, and 
the amount of Federal funds associated with such projects; the 
number of projects for which work has begun under such 
contracts and the amount of Federal funds associated with such 
contracts; the number of projects for which work has been 
completed under such contracts and the amount of Federal funds 
associated with such contracts; the number of direct, on-
project jobs created or sustained by the Federal funds provided 
and, to the extent possible, the estimated indirect jobs 
created or sustained in the associated supplying industries, 
including the number of job-years created and the total 
increase in employment since the date of enactment; and 
information tracking the actual aggregate expenditures by each 
grant recipient from State sources for projects eligible for 
funding under the program during the period from the date of 
enactment through September 30, 2010, compared to the level of 
expenditures that were planned to occur during such period as 
of the date of enactment.

 To Amend the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 to Authorize Advances From Oil 
     Spill Liability Trust Fund for the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill


                           Public Law 111-191


                               (S. 3473)


                             June 15, 2010

    This law amends the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 to exempt 
advances to the Coast Guard in connection with the explosion 
on, and sinking of, the mobile offshore drilling unit Deepwater 
Horizon from the requirement that amounts in the Oil Spill 
Liability Trust Fund (Fund) be available only as provided in 
annual appropriations acts. P.L. 111-191 limits such advances 
to a maximum of $100 million each, with the total amount for 
all advances subject to the limits of existing law (i.e., not 
to exceed $1 billion for any single incident and $500 million 
for natural resource damage assessments and claims for any 
single incident, provided that, except in the case of payments 
of removal costs, an advance may be made only if the amount in 
the Fund after such advance will not be less than $30 million). 
The Coast Guard is required to notify Congress within seven 
days of the amount advanced and the facts and circumstances 
necessitating the advance.

  Ike Skelton National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2011


                           Public Law 111-__


                              (H.R. 6523)


                              January 2011


Aviation

    Section 358 requires the Secretary of Defense to take 
certain actions to expedite Department of Defense (DOD) review 
of new infrastructure projects that may have an adverse impact 
on military operations and readiness. Specifically, this 
requires the designation of a senior official and a lead 
organization at DOD to coordinate the Department's review of 
applications for projects filed with the Secretary of 
Transportation pursuant to section 44718 of title 49, United 
States Code (regarding the impact of the construction, 
alteration, establishment, or expansion, of a structure that 
may result in an obstruction of the navigable airspace or an 
interference with air navigation facilities and equipment or 
the navigable airspace). Within 180 days, the designated 
official and lead organization at DOD must: conduct a 
preliminary review and assessment of any pending project 
applications; develop an integrated review process to ensure 
timely notification and consideration of project applications 
that may have an adverse impact on military operations and 
readiness; establish procedures for DOD to coordinate 
consideration of and response to a request for a review 
received from State and local officials or renewable energy 
project developers; and develop procedures for conducting early 
outreach to parties carrying out such projects. DOD is required 
to have a strategy in place within 270 days to take the same 
steps with respect to any future project applications filed 
with the Department of Transportation (DOT). For projects where 
DOD is concerned about potential impacts on military readiness, 
this section requires DOD to conduct its hazard assessment 
within 30 days of receiving an application from DOT. This 
section clarifies that the DOD hazard assessment shall not be 
considered a substitute for any assessment or determination 
required by the Federal Aviation Administration under current 
law.

Water Resources and Environment

    Sections 311 and 312 provide the Secretary of Defense the 
authority to transfer funds to the Hazardous Substance 
Superfund. Section 311 authorizes a reimbursement of the 
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for costs incurred 
related to response activities performed at the Twin Cities 
Army Ammunition Plant, Minnesota. Section 312 authorizes funds 
to pay a penalty assessed by the EPA against Naval Air Station, 
Brunswick, Maine, for the failure of the Navy to sample certain 
monitoring wells in a timely manner.
    Section 2815 requires the Secretary of Defense, within 270 
days, to conduct a study relating to the presence of unexploded 
ordnance in a portion of the former bombardment area at Culebra 
Island, Puerto Rico. The Secretary is specifically directed to 
examine any threats to public health or safety and the 
environment from unexploded ordnance.
    Section 2822 authorizes the Secretary of Defense to convey 
to the Guam Waterworks Authority all right, title, and interest 
of the United States in and to the water and wastewater 
treatment utility systems on Guam, including the Fena 
Reservoir, for the purpose of establishing an integrated water 
and wastewater treatment system on Guam.

Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation

    The bill also contains several sections affecting the 
United States Coast Guard, including provisions that increase 
the annual pay and alter benefits eligibility for Coast Guard 
men and women.

        National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010


                           Public Law 111-84


                              (H.R. 2647)


                            October 28, 2009


Aviation

    Section 935 requires the Secretary of Transportation and 
the Secretary of Defense to create a joint plan to accommodate 
Department of Defense (DOD) unmanned aircraft systems in the 
national airspace.

Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation

    Section 601 authorizes a 3.4 percent increase in basic pay 
for members of the uniformed services, including the Coast 
Guard.
    Section 3505 requires the Secretary of Defense and the 
Secretary of the Department in which the Coast Guard is 
operating to prescribe non-lethal defense measures to defend 
against piracy, and to require that U.S.-flagged vessels 
participating in the Maritime Security Program carrying DOD 
cargo and operating in an area designated by the Coast Guard as 
an area of high risk of piracy be equipped with such measures.
    Section 3512 directs the Secretary of Transportation, 
through the Maritime Administrator, to establish a port 
infrastructure development program and a port infrastructure 
development fund. The provision expressly prohibits the 
transfer of highway and public transit funds (made available 
under title 23 or chapter 53 of title 49, United States Code) 
to the port infrastructure development fund, except under very 
limited circumstances.
    Section 3515 authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to 
establish and implement a short sea transportation grant 
program for the development of marine highways.
    Section 3516 requires the Secretary of Transportation to 
expand the Marine View system, an information system containing 
data on the nation's marine transportation system, which is 
defined as the navigable water transportation system of the 
U.S. including vessels, ports, shipyards, and vessel repair 
facilities.

Water Resources and Environment

    Section 315 authorizes the Secretary of Defense to transfer 
$68,623 into the Hazardous Substance Superfund (Superfund) to 
reimburse the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for costs 
incurred overseeing a remediation at the Former Nansemond 
Ordnance Depot Site, Suffolk, Virginia.
    Section 2860 authorizes the Secretary of the Air Force to 
convey land at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas in exchange for 
real property adjacent to the property.

     Supporting the Goals and Ideals of National Public Works Week


                             (H. Res. 313)


                              May 5, 2009

    H. Res. 313 expresses support for the goals and ideals of 
National Public Works Week. This resolution recognizes and 
celebrates the important contributions that public works 
professionals make to improve the public infrastructure of the 
United States.

  Expressing the Sense of the House of Representatives Regarding the 
 Terrorist Attacks Launched Against the United States on September 11, 
                                  2001


                             (H. Res. 722)


                           September 9, 2009

    H. Res. 722 recognizes September 11 as both a day to mourn 
and remember those taken from their loved ones and fellow 
citizens, and a day for the people of the United States to 
recommit to the nation and to each other. The resolution also 
states that the U.S. House of Representatives extends its 
deepest sympathies to the friends, families, and loved ones of 
the innocent victims of the September 11, 2001 terrorist 
attacks; honors the heroic service and sacrifices of first 
responders, law enforcement personnel, state and local 
officials, volunteers, and others who aided the victims and, in 
so doing, bravely risked and often sacrificed their own lives 
and health; and expresses gratitude to the foreign leaders and 
citizens of all nations who continue to stand in solidarity 
with the United States against the international scourge of 
terrorism. The resolution also asserts, in the strongest 
possible terms, that the fight against terrorism is not a war 
on any nation, any people, or any faith; recognizes the heroic 
service of United States personnel, including members of the 
United States Armed Forces, United States intelligence 
agencies, and the United States diplomatic service, and their 
families, who have sacrificed much, including their lives and 
health, to defend their country against terrorists; and that 
the U.S. House of Representatives will continue to take 
whatever actions are appropriate to defend the people of the 
United States and to identify, intercept, and defeat 
terrorists, including providing the United States Armed Forces, 
United States intelligence agencies, and the United States 
diplomatic service with the resources and support to 
effectively accomplish this mission. The resolution calls on 
all Americans to renew their devotion to the universal ideals 
that make the nation great: freedom, pluralism, equality, and 
the rule of law.

Honoring and Celebrating the Contributions of African-Americans to the 
         Transportation and Infrastructure of the United States


                             (H. Res. 1085)


                           February 24, 2010

    H. Res. 1085 supports the goals and ideals of National 
African American History Month; honors and celebrates the 
important contributions that African-Americans have made 
throughout history to the transportation and infrastructure of 
the United States; and urges citizens and communities 
throughout the United States to join with representatives of 
the Federal Government to recognize the substantial 
contributions that African-Americans have made and continue to 
make to the nation's transportation and infrastructure systems.

  Expressing the Sense of the House of Representatives Regarding the 
 Terrorist Attacks Launched Against the United States on September 11, 
                                  2001


                             (H. Res. 1610)


                           September 15, 2010

    H. Res. 1610 recognizes September 11 as both a day to mourn 
and remember those taken from their loved ones and fellow 
citizens, and a day for the people of the United States to 
recommit to the nation and to each other. The resolution also 
states that the U.S. House of Representatives extends its 
deepest sympathies to the friends, families, and loved ones of 
the innocent victims of the September 11, 2001, terrorist 
attacks; honors the heroic service and sacrifices of first 
responders, law enforcement personnel, State and local 
officials, volunteers, and others who aided the victims and, in 
so doing, bravely risked and often sacrificed their own lives 
and health; and expresses gratitude to the foreign leaders and 
citizens of all nations who continue to stand in solidarity 
with the United States against the international scourge of 
terrorism. The resolution also: recognizes the heroic service 
of United States personnel, including members of the Armed 
Forces, intelligence agencies, the diplomatic service, the law 
enforcement and homeland security communities, and their 
families, who have sacrificed much, including their lives and 
health, to defend their country against terrorists; states that 
the U.S. House of Representatives vows that it will continue to 
take whatever actions are appropriate to defend the people of 
the United States and to identify, intercept, and defeat 
terrorists, including providing the Armed Forces, intelligence 
agencies, the diplomatic service, and the law enforcement and 
homeland security communities with the resources and support 
necessary to effectively accomplish this mission; and reaffirms 
that the American people will never forget the sacrifices made 
on and since September 11, 2001.

                           Other Legislation


   Oil Spill Accountability and Environmental Protection Act of 2010


                         (H.R. 3534, Title VII)


                          (See also H.R. 5629)


                   Passed the House on July 30, 2010

    H.R. 3534 provides greater efficiencies, transparency, 
returns, and accountability in the administration of Federal 
mineral and energy resources by consolidating administration of 
various Federal energy minerals management and leasing programs 
into one entity to be known as the Office of Federal Energy and 
Minerals Leasing of the Department of the Interior, and for 
other purposes.
    Title VII, the ``Oil Spill Accountability and Environmental 
Protection Act of 2010'', of H.R. 3534 removes the limitation 
on liability for offshore facilities to ensure that the 
responsible party or parties (e.g., British Petroleum with 
respect to the Deepwater Horizon spill) will be responsible for 
100 percent of the cleanup costs and damages to third parties. 
This provision applies to claims brought before the date of 
enactment, provided that such claims are brought within the 
limitation period applicable to the claim.
    In addition, Title VII: increases the level of financial 
responsibility for an offshore facility to $300 million; allows 
the President to require a responsible party to provide 
evidence of financial responsibility that is less than $300 
million under certain circumstances; and sets floors for 
minimum financial responsibility of $105 million for a 
deepwater facility or $30 million for a shallow water facility. 
It also directs the President to review the minimum level of 
financial responsibility every three years, and adjust it 
upward if necessary. The bill does not change the financial 
responsibility requirements for vessels, which, under current 
law, are equal to the liability limitations.
    Title VII of H.R. 3534 authorizes individuals to seek 
compensation from responsible parties for damages to human 
health resulting from a release of oil.
    This legislation also requires all vessels engaged in oil 
drilling activities in the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) 
(200-mile zone) to be U.S.-flag vessels owned by U.S. citizens. 
In addition, title VII requires all offshore facilities to be 
U.S. built, except under certain conditions.
    Title VII of H.R. 3534 requires the safety management plan 
for a Mobil Offshore Drilling Unit (MODU) to address all 
activities on the vessel that may affect the seaworthiness of 
the vessel in a worst-case event, and increases the knowledge 
requirements for licensed masters of a MODU.
    Title VII requires the Coast Guard to concur in the 
Offshore Spill Response Plan (OSRP) for an offshore facility, 
including the well, and clarifies the respective authorities of 
the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Department 
of Transportation (DOT) with respect to onshore facilities, and 
the Department of the Interior (DOI). In addition, this section 
repeals the authority for the President to allow any tank 
vessel or onshore or offshore facility to operate without an 
approved OSRP.
    Under Title VII, EPA is required to undertake a rulemaking 
to revise the schedule for using a chemical dispersant in 
connection with an oil spill, including an evaluation of the 
effectiveness, toxicity, and potential human health and 
environmental impacts from use of a dispersant. In addition, 
title VII provides for a temporary moratorium on the use of 
dispersants, except that the EPA may conditionally approve the 
use of dispersants under certain circumstances.
    Title VII requires the President to establish a national 
database to track all releases of oil or hazardous substances 
into the waters of the United States, adjoining shorelines, 
into or upon the waters of the contiguous zone, or in relation 
to activities on the outer Continental Shelf.
    Title VII defines the respective authorities of the Coast 
Guard, the EPA, DOT, and DOI and directs the heads of these 
agencies to ensure that agency personnel develop and maintain 
the operational capability to respond effectively to an oil 
spill and to ensure the safe operation of vessels on the outer 
Continental Shelf. Title VII also updates the requirements for 
facility and vessel owners and operators to develop, maintain, 
and update oil spill response plans, and requires the 
appropriate Federal agencies to periodically review compliance 
with the requirements.
    Title VII authorizes specific appropriations from the Oil 
Spill Liability Trust Fund for the Coast Guard, EPA, and DOT to 
carry out the Act. In addition, it authorizes an end-of-year 
strength for active-duty Coast Guard personnel to be increased 
by 300 personnel who shall be assigned to implement the 
activities required of the Coast Guard by this Act.
    Finally, Title VII repeals the Clean Water Act exemption 
from the stormwater permitting requirements for the 
construction of oil and gas exploration and production sites.

                                Hearings

    During the 111th Congress, the Committee on Transportation 
and Infrastructure held 22 hearings.

  Infrastructure Investment: Ensuring an Effective Economic Recovery 
                                Package

    On January 22, 2009, the Committee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on how infrastructure investment contributes 
to job creation and economic recovery. The Subcommittee 
received testimony from the Governor of Wisconsin; Mayor of 
Portland, Oregon; Secretary of Transportation of New York; and 
other stakeholders.
    This hearing served as follow-up to the Committee's October 
29, 2008 hearing, in which the Committee explored three primary 
reasons for enacting economic recovery legislation: (1) the 
rise in construction sector unemployment; (2) the failure to 
meet the nation's infrastructure needs, and (3) the 
availability of ready-to-go infrastructure projects. At the 
October hearing, the Committee also reviewed the findings of 
the recent study of the National Surface Transportation Policy 
and Revenue Study Commission, which found a significant surface 
transportation investment gap, and called for an annual 
investment level of between $225 billion and $340 billion--by 
all levels of government and the private sector--over the next 
50 years to upgrade all modes of surface transportation to a 
state of good repair.
    Since the October hearing, unemployment in the construction 
industry had skyrocketed to 15.3 percent--the highest 
unemployment rate of any industrial sector. In the context of 
this national emergency, the Committee reviewed these job loss 
statistics, the critical need to invest in the country's 
crumbling infrastructure, and the availability of ready-to-go 
projects. At this hearing, witnesses testified on the need to 
increase funding levels for transportation and infrastructure 
projects in economic recovery legislation and to ensure the 
timely and transparent use of funds for job creation by the 
summer of 2009.

  The Deparment of Transportation's Disadvantaged Business Enterprise 
                                Programs

    On March 26, 2009, the Committee held a hearing to receive 
testimony on the U.S. Department of Transportation's (DOT) 
Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE) Program. At the 
hearing, the Committee received testimony from House Majority 
Whip James E. Clyburn; DOT officials responsible for 
administering the DBE program; an economic analyst specializing 
in race and sex discrimination and its impact on businesses; 
owners and executives of disadvantaged and woman-owned 
businesses and concessionaires; and representatives of trade 
associations representing contractors, concessionaires, and 
airports. This hearing was part of the Committee's effort to 
prepare for the reauthorization of Federal surface 
transportation and aviation programs.
    The DBE program provides women and minority contractors 
with the opportunity to compete for highway, transit, and 
airport construction contracts under Federally-funded 
transportation programs. The DBE program was established 
through a series of legislative initiatives to remedy past and 
current discrimination against minority- and woman-owned small 
businesses to ensure that they are provided equal opportunity 
to compete for DOT-assisted highway, public transit, and 
airport contracts.
    At the hearing, the Committee received evidence and data 
showing ongoing discrimination and barriers to entering the 
marketplace faced by minority and women business owners. The 
data demonstrated the difficulty facing small and disadvantaged 
businesses at many points in the contracting process, including 
obtaining credit, bonding, and insurance, and the need to 
continue efforts to expand access to Federal highway, transit, 
and airport contracts for minority- and woman-owned small 
businesses.

     Recovery Act: 10-Week Progress Report for Transportation and 
                        Infrastructure Programs

    On April 29, 2009, the Committee held a hearing to address 
Recovery Act implementation efforts in programs across the 
Committee's jurisdiction, including highways, bridges, public 
transportation, rail, aviation, waterways, flood control, water 
resource development, wastewater treatment facilities, 
hazardous waste cleanups, economic development, and Federal 
buildings. The Committee received testimony from the Secretary 
of Transportation; Administrator of Environmental Protection; 
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works); 
and Acting Administrator of General Services.
    The witnesses testified about their agency's efforts to use 
Recovery Act funds quickly, efficiently, and in harmony with 
the job-creating purposes of the Act. At the hearing, Committee 
Members reviewed for the first time the results of the 
Committee's vigorous oversight, which found that as of March 
31, 2009, just 42 days after President Barack Obama signed the 
Recovery Act into law, 1,380 highway and transit projects 
totaling $6.4 billion had been put out to bid, 1,380 projects 
were already under contract, and work had begun on 263 projects 
totaling $1.1 billion.
    The Committee also reviewed the certifications required 
under the Recovery Act. As of April 24, 2009, all 50 States, 
the District of Columbia, and the five Territories had 
certified that they would maintain their efforts with regard to 
state funding of transportation projects, request and use all 
funds provided by the Recovery Act, and use funds to create 
jobs and promote economic growth. Each Governor or Chief 
Executive Officer also certified that infrastructure 
investments funded by the Recovery Act had received the full 
review and vetting required by law and accepted responsibility 
that the infrastructure investments were an appropriate use of 
taxpayer dollars.

An Independent FEMA: Restoring the Nation's Capabilities for Effective 
               Emergency Management and Disaster Response

    On May 14, 2009, the Committee held a hearing to receive 
testimony on the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), 
and how it has functioned since its placement in the Department 
of Homeland Security (DHS). The Committee received testimony 
from state and local emergency managers, floodplain managers, 
and other stakeholders.
    FEMA is the Federal Government's lead agency for 
mitigating, preparing for, responding to, and recovering from 
disasters and emergencies from all hazards, whether natural or 
man-made. The agency's primary authority in carrying out these 
functions is the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and 
Emergency Assistance Act (Stafford Act) (42 U.S.C. 5121 et 
seq.).
    FEMA is best known for its programs that provide assistance 
to communities and citizens following a major disaster. FEMA's 
major programs for disaster recovery are the Public Assistance 
Program and the Individual Assistance Program, also known as 
the Individual and Households Program. The Public Assistance 
Program reimburses state and local emergency response costs and 
provides grants to state and local governments as well as 
certain private non-profits to rebuild facilities. The 
Individual Assistance Program provides assistance to families 
and individuals impacted by disasters, including funding for 
repair, rental assistance, or direct assistance (e.g., 
providing trailers and mobile homes). FEMA also provides grants 
to mostly low-income families for loss of personal property, as 
well as disaster-related dental, medical, and funeral costs to 
individuals regardless of income. Other Individual Assistance 
Program benefits include unemployment assistance, disaster food 
stamps, disaster legal services, and crisis counseling. Both 
before and after disasters, FEMA also provides grants to 
communities to reduce the risk of future damage, hardship, and 
loss from all hazards through the Pre-Disaster Mitigation 
Program and the post-disaster Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, 
both authorized by the Stafford Act.
    Previous hearings and other information provided to the 
Committee have raised concerns that changes made by DHS to FEMA 
programs continue to shift FEMA's mission from all hazards to 
terrorism preparedness at the expense of mitigating, preparing 
for, responding to, and recovering from natural disasters and 
other emergencies. For example, changes to two Federal grant 
programs that previously helped build basic emergency 
management and firefighting capability in communities around 
the country, Emergency Management Performance Grants (EMPG) and 
Fire Grants, illustrate this trend.
    Since FEMA become part of DHS, the Department has attempted 
to change the focus of EMPG to a terrorism preparedness program 
rather than its longstanding purpose of basic emergency 
management capacity building. The Department has required 
States and localities to agree to spend the funds provided on 
DHS-mandated planning scenarios that are focused on terrorism. 
DHS has also mandated that grants be sent through state 
homeland security officials (SAAs) rather than continuing the 
longstanding practice of giving funds directly to emergency 
managers.
    To restore FEMA's core emergency management mission, on 
February 25 2009, Chairman Oberstar introduced H.R. 1174, the 
``FEMA Independence Act of 2009''. This legislation re-
establishes FEMA as an independent, cabinet-level agency 
reporting directly to the President. An independent FEMA would 
have responsibility for core emergency management programs and 
functions currently administered by the agency. The bill does 
not transfer any grant programs or functions, which are 
currently administered by FEMA, specific to terrorism, such as 
the Urban Area Security Initiative and the State Homeland 
Security Grant Program. DHS would continue to lead our nation's 
efforts to prevent and protect against terrorist incidents and 
attacks (crisis management), and its responsibilities over 
homeland security would not be affected by the bill.

   Recovery Act: 120-Day Progress Report for Transportation Programs

    On June 25, 2009, the Committee held a hearing to receive 
testimony on Recovery Act implementation efforts in 
transportations programs under the Committee's jurisdiction, 
including highways, bridges, public transportation, rail, and 
aviation. The Committee received testimony from DOT modal 
administrators including the Administrator, Federal Aviation 
Administration (FAA); Administrator, Federal Railroad 
Administration (FRA); Administrator, Federal Transit 
Administration (FTA); and Acting Deputy Administrator, Federal 
Highway Administration (FHWA).
    This hearing focused specifically on the $48.1 billion of 
transportation investment for programs under the jurisdiction 
of the Committee provided within the Recovery Act. As of June 
15, 2009, U.S. DOT had announced its intended use for $47.5 
billion and obligated $17.5 billion in Recovery Act funding.
    The Committee also reviewed the use-it-or-lose-it 
provisions in the Recovery Act, and explored how meeting these 
deadlines would send a clear message to all Federal, state, and 
local governments implementing Recovery Act projects that they 
could quickly deliver transportation projects, put shovels into 
the ground, and, in doing so, improve the nation's 
infrastructure and lift the economy out of recession. 
Specifically, the Act required that 50 percent of the highway 
formula funds apportioned to States be obligated within 120 
days (June 30, 2009) after the date of apportionment. All 
States met this requirement. The Act also required the FAA to 
award 50 percent of airport grant funds within 120 days (June 
17, 2009) after the date of enactment. The FAA exceeded this 
goal by awarding 66 percent of the airport grant funds by the 
statutory deadline.

     Recovery Act: 160-Day Progress Report for Transportation and 
                        Infrastructure Programs

    On July 31, 2009, the Committee held a hearing to receive 
testimony on Recovery Act implementation efforts in 
infrastructure programs under the Committee's jurisdiction, 
including environmental, inland waterways, public buildings, 
and highway infrastructure. The Committee received testimony 
from the Acting Assistant Administrator for Administration and 
Resources Management, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA); 
Acting Assistant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works); Acting 
Commissioner, Public Buildings Service (PBS), General Services 
Administration (GSA); and Managing Director, Physical 
Infrastructure Issues of the Government Accountability Office 
(GAO).
    This hearing explored how outlays are a lagging indicator 
of Recovery Act progress. Reviewing outlays does not provide a 
good sense of Recovery Act progress because transportation 
projects primarily operate on a reimbursement mode. For 
example, States seek reimbursement for highway projects after 
construction is underway. Federal outlays, therefore, come 
months after jobs are created and necessary infrastructure 
projects have begun. Instead, monitoring the percentage of 
allocated funds associated with projects out to bid, under 
contract, and underway help the public measure the Recovery 
Act's progress.
    The Committee also reviewed how jobs are created when 
contracts are signed, not when jobs are reported to the 
Committee. In fact, job creation is not reported until at least 
45 to 90 days following contract award. The Committee also 
explored the distinctions between direct, indirect, and induced 
jobs, and the challenges associated with measuring the latter 
two categories. Direct jobs are charged directly to the 
project, and include workers employed to build a facility or 
upgrade equipment on-site. Indirect jobs are not charged 
directly to the project but are embedded in materials costs and 
include positions at companies that produce construction 
materials or manufacture equipment. Induced jobs are positions 
that are created or sustained when employees spend their 
increased incomes on goods and services.

 Concerns With Hazardous Materials Safety in the United States: Is the 
 Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration Performing Its 
                                Mission?

    On September 10, 2009, the Committee on Transportation and 
Infrastructure held a hearing to receive testimony on concerns 
with the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety 
Administration's (PHMSA) oversight and management of hazardous 
materials safety in the United States. The Committee received 
testimony from the Deputy Secretary of Transportation; 
Inspector General, U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT IG); 
and other stakeholders.
    At the hearing, the Committee unveiled preliminary findings 
of a Majority staff investigation of PHMSA. The DOT IG released 
findings of his ongoing audit of PHMSA's special permits and 
approvals program. The Committee's investigation, coupled with 
DOT IG findings, strongly suggests that PHMSA is not meeting 
its primary safety mission.
    The details of the Committee's preliminary findings are: 
(1) PHMSA does not review prior incident or enforcement 
histories of applicants before authorizing special permits and 
approvals; (2) PHMSA does not verify whether an applicant for a 
special permit or approval is (or should be) registered to 
transport, or offer for transport, hazardous material in 
commerce before authorizing a special permit or approval; (3) 
PHMSA could not provide the necessary support for granting an 
applicant's request for a special permit or approval; (4) PHMSA 
largely relies on self-certification by the applicant for 
special permits and approvals; (5) PHMSA allows an unlimited 
number of unrelated entities to utilize special permits granted 
to other parties; (6) PHMSA does not know where special permits 
are being utilized; (7) PHMSA issues special permits to trade 
associations and allows the association members to become 
``party to'' the permit without any evaluation as to their 
fitness and ability to carry out the terms and conditions of 
the special permit; (8) PHMSA does not follow its own 
regulations for issuing emergency special permits; (9) PHMSA 
grants emergency special permits to applicants absent any 
meaningful justification for a waiver of the regulations; (10) 
PHMSA is pre-disposed to approving requests for special 
permits, emergency special permits, and approvals; (11) there 
is no process established in law for issuing approvals; (12) 
PHMSA issues approvals to domestic ``agents'' representing 
foreign companies to carry hazardous materials in the United 
States without any evaluation of the fitness of the foreign 
company; (13) investigators identified special permits that 
should be incorporated in the regulations; (14) PHMSA has 
failed to coordinate with the DOT modal administrations, in 
particular the FAA; (15) PHMSA has largely ignored oversight 
and enforcement concerns; (16) PHMSA found that 60 to 90 
percent of all accidents are unreported, but little has been 
done to address it; (17) contrary to its claims, PHMSA is not a 
data-driven agency; (18) PHMSA developed a comprehensive plan 
to address its data issues but it was never implemented; (19) 
there have been concerns that PHMSA failed to maintain an arms-
length relationship with industry; and, (20) PHMSA has lost 
sight of its important safety mission.
    The Deputy Secretary of Transportation testified that it 
was aware of the problems within PHMSA and that immediate 
actions would be taken to resolve the Committee's concerns.

Recovery Act: 225-Day Progress Report For Transportation Infrastructure 
                               Investment

    On October 1, 2009, the Committee held a hearing to receive 
testimony on Recovery Act implementation efforts in 
transportation programs under the Committee's jurisdiction. The 
Committee received testimony from Secretary of Transportation 
LaHood; Director, Wyoming Department of Transportation; and 
representatives of construction companies and bus 
manufacturers.
    The Secretary testified regarding DOT's progress in 
committing Recovery Act transportation funds. The state 
department of transportation witness testified about 
implementing Recovery Act projects from the state perspective. 
The private-sector witnesses testified about their experiences 
in the private sector related to the Recovery Act.
    During the hearing, witnesses testified that investment 
from the private sector in our economy continued to decline. A 
construction company witness testified that, although during 
the previous three years his company had received one-half of 
its work from the private sector and one-half of its work from 
the public sector, at the time of the hearing, 98.5 percent of 
his business was public sector work. The bus manufacturer 
witness testified that his company had received orders for 638 
buses that could be directly tied to Recovery Act funding. He 
emphasized that this quantity represents approximately 30 
percent of the company's annual production. According to the 
witnesses, if not for the public investments in infrastructure 
funded by the Recovery Act, these companies would have found 
themselves in a far worse position, likely forcing massive 
reductions in their workforces.

 The Clean Water Act After 37 Years: Recommitting to the Protection of 
                          the Nation's Waters

    On October 15, 2009, the Committee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the Federal Water Pollution Control Act 
(Clean Water Act). The Committee received testimony from EPA, 
GAO, EPA's Inspector General (EPA IG), State organizations, 
academia, individual citizens, and other stakeholders.
    The primary focus of the hearing was on EPA's Clean Water 
Act enforcement program. On September 13, 2009, the New York 
Times ran a front page story detailing the systemic failure by 
Federal and state governments to enforce the Clean Water Act in 
recent years. According to the story, ``fewer than 3 percent of 
Clean Water Act violations resulted in fines or other 
significant punishments by state officials,'' and ``unchecked 
pollution remains a problem in many states.''
    Witnesses generally agreed that additional oversight of 
Federal and State Clean Water Act compliance and enforcement 
programs was warranted. According to Administrator for 
Environmental Protection Jackson, EPA is ``falling short of 
[the Obama] Administration's expectations for the effectiveness 
of our clean water enforcement programs'' and that ``the time 
is long overdue for EPA to reexamine its approach to Clean 
Water Act [National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System] 
enforcement to be better equipped to address the water 
pollution challenges of this century.'' Administrator Jackson 
noted that ``[a]dding to our challenges, recent Supreme Court 
decisions have increased the difficulty of determining which 
water bodies are covered by the Clean Water Act in many parts 
of the country'' and that ``the Administration [believes that 
this issue] can only be fixed by Congress, and must be fixed.''
    At the hearing, the Administrator announced a new Clean 
Water Act enforcement plan to: (1) target enforcement to the 
most serious violations and the most significant sources; (2) 
strengthen EPA oversight of state permitting and enforcement 
programs; and (3) take immediate steps to improve transparency 
and accountability.

    Recovery Act: Progress Report for Transportation Infrastructure 
                               Investment

    On December 10, 2009, the Committee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on Recovery Act implementation efforts in 
transportation programs under the Committee's jurisdiction. The 
Committee received testimony from the Deputy Secretary of 
Transportation; Secretary of the Oklahoma Department of 
Transportation and representing the American Association of 
State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO); General 
Manager of the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority and 
representing the American Public Transportation Association 
(APTA); and Managing Director, Physical Infrastructure Issues, 
GAO.
    During the hearing, witnesses testified that the collapse 
of the private construction market and lower than anticipated 
bids for Recovery Act infrastructure projects, along with State 
transportation cuts and the high unemployment rate in the 
construction industry, demonstrated that the construction 
industry was operating far below its capacity.
    The Committee also received information from AASHTO and 
APTA about the availability of additional ready-to-go highway 
and transit projects and the need to enact additional economic 
recovery legislation with infrastructure investment. As 
documented in a December 2009 AASHTO survey of State 
Departments of Transportation, there were 7,497 ready-to-go 
highway and bridge projects, totaling $47.3 billion. 
Furthermore, according to a December 2009 APTA survey, there 
were more than $15 billion of ready-to-go transit projects.
    The GAO witness testified that bids for infrastructure 
projects had come in much lower than expected. For example, 
California, Georgia, and Texas awarded more than 90 percent of 
their highway contracts for less than their cost estimates. 
These lower than anticipated bids allowed States to pursue 
additional projects with Recovery Act funds. In addition, a 
construction industry witness also noted the overall rise in 
the actual number of bidding contractors on infrastructure 
projects. His finding demonstrated that there remained 
substantial capacity in the private sector to construct 
additional public infrastructure projects.

     Recovery Act: One-Year Progress Report for Transportation and 
                       Infrastructure Investments

    On February 23, 2010, the Committee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on implementation efforts of the Recovery Act 
in programs across the Committee's jurisdiction. At this 
Recovery Act one-year anniversary hearing, the Committee 
received testimony from six Federal agencies and Amtrak 
implementing programs under the Committee's jurisdiction.
    EPA testified that all states met the Recovery Act 
requirement that all Clean Water funds be under contract or 
construction within one year of the date of enactment (February 
17, 2010). DOT testified about its successful implementation of 
highway, transit, aviation, and small shipyard programs. The 
Committee also received testimony on DOT's recently announced 
high-speed rail and Transportation Investment Generating 
Economic Recovery (TIGER) grants. Secretary LaHood had recently 
announced 51 TIGER grants in 40 States and the District of 
Columbia, totaling $1.5 billion. DOT had also recently 
announced $8 billion in Recovery Act grants to develop the 
United States' first nationwide program of high-speed intercity 
passenger rail service.
    The Committee reviewed transparency and accountability 
information submitted to the Committee directly by States, 
metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs), and public transit 
agencies, as of January 31, 2010. These recipients reported 
that 10,348 underway highway, transit, and wastewater 
infrastructure formula projects have created or sustained 
nearly 300,000 direct, on-project jobs. Total employment from 
these projects, which includes direct, indirect, and induced 
jobs, reached over 938,000. Direct job creation from these 
projects resulted in payroll expenditures of $1.5 billion. The 
Committee further calculated that these direct jobs resulted in 
Federal taxes paid totaling $310 million and unemployment 
checks avoided worth $254 million.

The Water Resources Development Act of 2007: A Review of Implementation 
                           in its Third Year

    On March 3, 2010, the Committee held a hearing to receive 
testimony on implementation of the Water Resources Development 
Act of 2007 (WRDA 2007). The Committee received testimony from 
Assistant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works) Jo-Ellen Darcy; 
Chief of Engineers, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps); and 
other stakeholders.
    WRDA 2007 was enacted on November 8, 2007, over the veto of 
President George W. Bush. Since that time, the Committee has 
aggressively monitored the progress, or lack thereof, of the 
Department of the Army and the Corps in implementing the law.
    On March 3, 2010, the Majority staff of the Committee 
issued a report, entitled The Water Resources Development Act 
of 2007, Public Law 110-114, a Report on Implementation in the 
Third Year, that described the lack of progress in implementing 
WRDA 2007's key provisions. While that report described several 
shortcomings in implementation of WRDA 2007, the significant 
programmatic reform areas of independent review, mitigation, 
and revisions to the planning principles and guidelines 
received substantial attention.
    At the hearing, Members discussed the report's findings 
with the Assistant Secretary of the Army and Chief of Engineers 
of the Corps. Several witnesses testified on the shortcomings 
of WRDA 2007 implementation.
    The Committee continues to work with the Army and 
stakeholders to ensure that the provisions of WRDA 2007 are 
implemented and that the projects authorized for construction 
in that law are carried out consistent with Congressional 
intent.

  Recovery Act: Progress Report for Highway, Transit, and Wastewater 
                   Infrastructure Formula Investments

    On March 26, 2010, the Committee held a hearing to receive 
testimony on implementation of Recovery Act transportation and 
infrastructure formula programs, including highways, transit, 
and wastewater infrastructure. The Committee received testimony 
from the Director, Iowa Department of Transportation, and 
representing AASHTO; General Manager, Des Moines Area Regional 
Transit Authority, and representing APTA; Deputy Director, 
Minnesota Public Facilities Authority, and representing the 
Council of Infrastructure Financing Authorities; 
representatives of construction companies; and construction 
workers.
    The Committee received testimony from state and local 
officials on the successful implementation of the highway, 
transit, and wastewater infrastructure formula programs. As of 
the hearing date, every Recovery Act dollar available under the 
Clean Water program was under contract. Furthermore, all states 
and public transit agencies had obligated 100 percent of their 
Recovery Act highway and transit formula funds.
    The Committee also heard testimony from two workers whose 
jobs were saved because of the Recovery Act. The two workers 
shared their personal stories with the Committee.

    The Department of Transportation's Oversight and Management of 
           Hazardous Materials Special Permits and Approvals

    On April 22, 2010, the Committee held a hearing to receive 
testimony on PHMSA's efforts to improve its special permits and 
approvals programs and address the findings of the Committee 
investigation of PHMSA, as outlined in the September 10, 2009 
Committee hearing. The Committee received testimony from the 
Deputy Secretary of Transportation; DOT IG; and other 
stakeholders.
    On November 4, 2009, Chairman James L. Oberstar introduced 
H.R. 4016, the ``Hazardous Material Transportation Safety Act 
of 2009''. As a result of the hearings and Committee 
investigation, section 401 of the bill specifically addresses 
shortcomings in special permits and approvals. The bill:
           maintains PHMSA's ability to issue special 
        permits if the authorized activity is carried out in a 
        manner that achieves a safety level at least equal to 
        the safety level required under chapter 51 of title 49, 
        United States Code; or is consistent with the public 
        interest and chapter 51, if a required safety level 
        does not exist;
           requires PHMSA to determine that an 
        applicant for a special permit or approval is fit, 
        willing, and able to conduct the activity authorized by 
        the special permit or approval in a safe manner. In 
        making the determination, the Secretary will consider 
        the applicant's safety history (including prior 
        compliance history), accident and incident history, and 
        any other information that the Secretary considers 
        appropriate to make such a determination;
           requires PHMSA to consult and coordinate 
        with the Federal Aviation Administration, Federal Motor 
        Carrier Safety Administration, and the Federal Railroad 
        Administration (FRA) prior to issuing a special permit 
        or approval;
           requires PHMSA to publish all special 
        permits, including emergency special permits, and 
        approvals in the Federal Register for public review and 
        comment; and
           authorizes PHMSA to establish a reasonable 
        fee for processing applications for special permits and 
        approvals.
    The Deputy Secretary testified about the number of 
improvements it had made to the special permits and approvals 
programs, many of which are required under H.R. 4016. The DOT 
IG testified that, although PHMSA has made progress in its 
administration of special permits and approvals, substantial 
work still remains.

   Deepwater Horizon: Oil Spill Prevention and Response Measures and 
                        Natural Resource Impacts

    On May 19, 2010, the Committee held a hearing to receive 
testimony on the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. The Committee 
received testimony from Administrator of Environmental 
Protection Jackson; Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and 
Atmosphere and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration 
(NOAA) Administrator Dr. Jane Lubchenco; Director, Minerals 
Management Service (MMS); Assistant Commandant for Marine 
Safety, U.S. Coast Guard; President, PB, p.l.c.; President and 
Chief Executive Officer, Transocean Ltd.; and other 
stakeholders.
    Witnesses testified on Federal agency actions, to date, to 
respond to the explosion and sinking of the Deepwater Horizon, 
and to oversee the actions of the responsible party, BP, to 
clean up the estimated 4.9 million barrels of oil released into 
the Gulf of Mexico.
    In addition, several witnesses expressed concern about the 
potential long-term impacts of the oil spill on the natural 
resources of the Gulf and on the lives and livelihoods of those 
who rely on the sustainability of these resources. Witnesses 
also expressed concern with the short- and long-term impacts 
from the use of unprecedented volumes of chemical dispersants 
in response to the oil spill, as well as the limited 
toxicological information that exists to fully assess the risk 
of use of chemical dispersants to organisms exposed to 
dispersants and dispersed oil. Finally, witnesses expressed 
concern with the lack of resources (from both Federal agencies 
and industry) devoted to oil spill response research, including 
one witness who suggested that the ``lack of knowledge limits 
our ability to respond effectively to spills, and increases the 
risk of damage to natural resources and the environment.''

      Recovery Act: Progress Report for Infrastructure Investments

    On May 26, 2010, the Committee held a hearing to receive 
testimony on Recovery Act implementation of infrastructure 
investments, including waterways, flood control, water resource 
development, wastewater treatment facilities, hazardous waste 
cleanups, economic development, and Federal buildings. The 
Committee received testimony from Assistant Administrator for 
Administration and Resources Management, EPA; Deputy Assistant 
Secretary of the Army (Civil Works); Assistant Secretary for 
Economic Development, U.S. Department of Commerce; and other 
stakeholders.
    The GSA witness specifically testified that contracts had 
been awarded and work had begun on 406 projects worth $4.1 
billion, representing 74 percent of GSA's total apportionment. 
The Department of the Army explained that the Corps had 
obligated $3.5 billion for 791 Recovery Act projects, 
representing 77 percent of the total amount of Recovery Act 
funds allocated to the Corps. The Economic Development 
Administration (EDA) testified how it had awarded all grants by 
September 25, 2009, and had already broken ground on 20 of 68 
planned projects totaling $45 million, or 31 percent of EDA's 
Recovery Act funds.
    The Committee also received testimony from three private-
sector witnesses that received Recovery Act contracts. These 
companies included a dredging equipment manufacturer, 
construction company, and ecological design firm. All three 
witnesses testified about the importance of the Recovery Act to 
their business and how these funds have allowed them to create 
or sustain needed employment.

  Liability and Financial Responsibility for Oil Spills Under the Oil 
               Pollution Act of 1990 and Related Statutes

    On June 9, 2010, the Committee held a hearing to receive 
testimony on liability and financial responsibility for oil 
spills under the Oil Pollution Act and related statutes. The 
Committee received testimony from Members of Congress, Federal 
agency representatives from the U.S. Department of Justice, 
MMS, and the U.S. Coast Guard's National Pollution Funds 
Center, representatives of the oil and insurance industries, 
and other stakeholders.
    Witness testimony focused on whether the current liability 
limits of the Clean Water Act and Oil Pollution Act of 1990 
should be increased, and whether the amount of financial 
responsibility that oil-related facilities and vessels are 
required to demonstrate for liabilities associated with oil 
spills should be increased. The testimony also examined whether 
any increases in liability limits can and should be increased 
retroactively to apply to the Deepwater Horizon explosion.
    The testimony from various witnesses differed on whether 
and to what level liability and certificate of financial 
responsibility (COFR) limits should be increased. Generally 
speaking, oil and insurance industry representatives expressed 
caution on raising existing limits, suggesting that individual 
oil producers and the private insurance market had a limited 
capacity to meet potential increases in liability limits. The 
Federal agency witnesses expressed the support of the Obama 
administration for ``a significant increase in liability for 
offshore oil and gas developers whose actions pollute our 
oceans and coastlines and threaten our wildlife and other 
natural resources'' and for ``removing caps on liability for 
oil companies engaged in offshore drilling.'' The 
representative from the U.S. Coast Guard also testified on the 
agency's support for increasing the liability limits of vessels 
to facilitate ``a more equitable division of risk between the 
[Oil Spill Liability Trust] Fund and responsible parties, have 
a positive impact on the balance of the Fund, and reduce the 
Fund's overall risk position.'' One witness suggested that the 
``removal, or substantial increase, of the liability cap on 
economic damages from oil spills is the most effective way to 
align oil companies' incentives with the American people's 
interests.''
    Regarding the issue of the constitutionality of retroactive 
application of increases in liability, the Department of 
Justice witness testified that, although the Obama 
administration formally recommended prospective application of 
any increases in liability, ``there are very strong arguments 
that Congress could enact legislation that would have a 
retroactive effect,'' and that ``there are strong arguments 
with respect to [its] constitutional defense,'' such as the 
rational legislative purpose to provide adequate compensation 
and cleanup of oil spills, and a questionable legal reliance on 
existing liability limits by the oil industry.

    Recovery Act: Progress Report for Transportation Infrastructure 
                              Investments

    On July 27, 2010, the Committee held a hearing to receive 
testimony on Recovery Act implementation efforts in 
transportation programs under the Committee's jurisdiction. The 
Committee received testimony from Secretary of Transportation 
LaHood and other stakeholders.
    The Secretary testified DOT's efforts to implement programs 
receiving funding under the Recovery Act. The Secretary cited 
numerous examples of workers who credit their jobs to Recovery 
Act transportation investments. The Secretary discussed people 
who work directly at job sites, including a superintendent at a 
new air traffic control tower construction project, as well as 
workers whose jobs are indirectly impacted by the Recovery Act, 
including the owner of a restaurant outside an Amtrak facility 
that will restore rail cars to service.
    Private-sector witnesses explained that the Recovery Act 
allowed them to keep workers employed and avoid deep layoffs. 
They also expressed their concern about the lack of a long-term 
surface transportation authorization law, and encouraged 
lawmakers to pass this legislation and consequently create 
millions of jobs.

           Enbridge Pipeline Oil Spill in Marshall, Michigan

    On September 15, 2010, the Committee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the Enbridge pipeline failure that 
occurred on July 25, 2010, in Marshall, Michigan. The Committee 
received testimony from Administrator of Environmental 
Protection Jackson; Deputy Secretary of Transportation; 
Chairman, National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB); a senior 
scientist of the National Institute of Environmental Health 
Sciences, National Institutes of Health; President and Chief 
Executive Officer, Enbridge, Inc.; residents of Battle Creek 
and Marshall, Michigan; and other stakeholders.
    The pipeline failure resulted in the release of an 
estimated one million gallons of crude oil into Talmadge Creek 
and the Kalamazoo River. The Kalamazoo River flows into Lake 
Michigan.
    On August 2, 2010, in response to a request from 
Representative Mark H. Schauer, the Committee launched an 
investigation of the Enbridge pipeline failure in Marshall, 
Michigan. The Committee requested numerous documents from 
Enbridge, DOT, and EPA related to the ruptured pipeline. 
Committee staff also conducted nearly 100 interviews with 
residents impacted by the Line 6B rupture in Marshall, 
Michigan, in addition to interviews of Enbridge, Federal, 
state, and local officials.
    As a result of the Committee investigation, the Committee 
identified numerous safety deficiencies with operation of the 
pipeline, including Enbridge's failure to address numerous 
volume imbalance alarms that had sounded in the days leading up 
to the spill, and to address more than 329 defects on Line 6B 
which required repair within 60 to 180 days under Federal 
regulations.
    The Committee also discovered evidence that Enbridge 
pressured residents affected by the oil spill to waive their 
rights to seek damages in exchange for minimal relief services 
such as air purifiers or motel reimbursements and to sign 
authorization forms for the release of all medical records to 
the company. On September 1, 2010, Chairman James L. Oberstar 
and Representative Schauer sent letters to the U.S. Department 
of Justice and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 
(HHS) requesting inquiries into Enbridge's practices relating 
to the liability releases and medical information forms. 
Chairman Oberstar and Representative Schauer also wrote to 
Enbridge regarding the allegation, and asked Enbridge to 
voluntarily rescind any and all releases of full and final 
settlement and any and all authorizations for releases of 
medical records that had been signed pursuant to the oil spill 
in Marshall, Michigan. They requested an immediate halt of 
Enbridge's practice of asking residents to sign the forms, and 
asked for copies of all signed forms and related materials.
    On September 3, 2010, Enbridge sent a letter to Chairman 
Oberstar and Representative Schauer stating that residents or 
businesses that were not satisfied with the claims process or 
Enbridge's approach would have the option to seek legal 
recourse. Enbridge committed to reviewing its claims process 
and discontinuing the use of releases that precluded the 
claimant from bringing future claims for physical injuries or 
medical conditions that result from the leak until Enbridge has 
an opportunity to meet with the parties to the letter. Enbridge 
also agreed to discontinue its efforts to obtain authorizations 
for release of medical information.
    In response to the Committee letter, on September 7, 2010, 
Secretary of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen 
Sebelius sent a letter to Patrick Daniel, President and Chief 
Executive Officer of Enbridge, which stated that,

        [if the reports were accurate that the company had] . . 
        . misled or coerced individuals to sign forms 
        authorizing the release of personal medical records to 
        Enbridge upon referral to a local family health center; 
        that these forms authorize the disclosure of an 
        inappropriately broad amount of medical information, 
        including information wholly unrelated to their current 
        conditions or complaints; that the form could be 
        directed to any provider, not only the one(s) to which 
        the patient has sought treatment for the potentially 
        oil spill-related condition; and that Enbridge has 
        failed to adequately inform these individuals of their 
        privacy rights under the Health Insurance Portability 
        and Accountability Act (HIPAA) . . . that the company's 
        actions are a deplorable affront to patients' privacy 
        rights.

    Secretary Sebelius urged Enbridge to cease such practices 
immediately. She also reported to the Committee that Enbridge's 
form was not HIPAA compliant.
    Witnesses from DOT, EPA, and NTSB discussed their ongoing 
investigations of the pipeline rupture and efforts to ensure 
cleanup of the affected areas. A panel of Michigan witnesses 
testified about the significant impact of the spill on the 
local community. A witness from the National Institute of 
Environmental Health Sciences focused on the health impact of 
oil spills.
    Subsequent to the hearing, the House passed H.R. 6008, the 
``Corporate Liability and Emergency Accident and Notification 
Act'', as a first step toward holding pipeline operators 
accountable for oil spills and requiring prompt reporting of 
pipeline incidents.

Residential Through-the-Fence Agreements at Public Airports: Action to 
                       Date and Challenges Ahead

    On September 22, 2010, the Committee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the legal and safety dilemmas that have 
emerged at public-use airports whose sponsors have granted an 
exclusive right of airport access to the owners of residential 
property adjacent to those airports. The Committee received 
testimony from Representative Kurt Schrader; Acting Associate 
Administrator, Office of Airports, FAA; state aviation program 
managers; airport managers; and other stakeholders.
    The so-called ``through-the-fence'' agreements that create 
this access have created concern among some Federal, state, and 
local officials because the agreements limit airport sponsors' 
rights and powers to use airport land for expansion, 
enhancement, and other public purposes. The officials are 
concerned because residential through-the-fence agreements 
encourage the use of land along airport perimeters for 
residential purposes--a use that is incompatible with aviation 
operations. When through-the-fence agreements prevent airport 
sponsors from expanding or enhancing airports to serve public 
needs, the agreements may frustrate the purpose of Federal 
investment in those airports.
    To date, FAA policy, as applied, has discouraged 
residential through-the-fence agreements. On September 9, 2010, 
the FAA published, in the Federal Register, a statement of 
proposed revisions to its policy on residential through-the-
fence agreements; the proposal would preclude new residential 
through-the-fence access at airports where none exists 
presently and would require airport officials to take steps to 
reduce the ill effects of existing through-the-fence access.
    The Committee heard testimony from the FAA's Acting 
Associate Administrator for Airports and state and local 
airport officials regarding the legal and safety dilemmas that 
have arisen by virtue of residential through-the-fence 
agreements. The Acting Associate Administrator described the 
FAA's efforts to reduce the unwanted effects of through-the-
fence access. The president of an airport business association 
testified about the policy implications of permitting through-
the-fence access without adequate safeguards. On the other 
hand, a state aviation official and a landowner who enjoys 
through-the-fence access to his local airport testified about 
the economic benefits that through-the-fence access provides 
for local airports in some cases.
    The period for public comments on the FAA's proposed policy 
revisions ended on October 25, 2010. FAA officials are 
reviewing the submitted comments to determine how to proceed 
with the proposed revisions to the through-the-fence policy.

  Recovery Act Transportation and Infrastructure Projects: Impacts on 
                     Local Communities and Business

    On September 29, 2010, the Committee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on Recovery Act implementation efforts in 
programs across the Committee's jurisdiction. The Committee 
received testimony from the Director, Baltimore Department of 
Public Works; Executive Director, Foothill Transit; Chief 
Executive Officer, Community Transit; Executive Director, 
Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District, and representing the 
National Association of Clean Water Agencies; Airport Director, 
Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport Authority, and representing 
the American Association of Airport Executives; and 
construction workers.
    Two workers--a Columbus, Indiana construction laborer and 
an electrician at a Minnesota bus manufacturer--testified about 
their work on Recovery Act projects. These workers, along with 
the community leaders and business people who testified, 
pointed to projects on the ground that have positively impacted 
the livelihood of people and their communities.
    The Committee also reviewed transparency and accountability 
information submitted to the Committee directly by States, 
MPOs, and public transit agencies, as of August 31, 2010. Those 
recipients reported that work had begun on 18,365 projects 
totaling $33.9 billion, representing 89 percent of the total 
available highway, transit, and wastewater formula funds. 
During the first year of implementation (February 17, 2009, 
through February 28, 2010), these projects created or sustained 
nearly 350,000 direct, on-project jobs. Total employment, which 
includes direct, indirect, and induced jobs, reached almost 1.2 
million jobs. During August 2010, the Recovery Act created or 
sustained 71,000 direct, on-project jobs. Total employment in 
August 2010, reached nearly 225,000 jobs. In total, direct job 
creation from these formula projects had resulted in payroll 
expenditures of $3.8 billion. Using this data, the Committee 
calculated that $644 million in unemployment checks have been 
avoided as a result of this direct job creation. Furthermore, 
these direct jobs have caused nearly $780 million to be paid in 
Federal taxes.

                     Activities and Investigations


                    ``Reincarnated'' Motor Carriers

    On August 8, 2008, a bus operated by Iguala BusMex blew a 
front tire and veered off a highway near Sherman, Texas, 
killing 17 members of a Vietnamese religious group. Iguala 
BusMex was registered to Angel de la Torre, former owner of 
Angel Tours, which the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) 
ordered out-of-service just six weeks earlier after finding a 
``total and complete breakdown of management controls.'' Within 
days of the shutdown of Angel Tours, de la Torre submitted an 
application to register Iguala BusMex as a new entity, using 
the same address, the same vehicles, and the same drivers as 
Angel Tours. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration 
(FMCSA) acknowledges that this practice, in which the new 
carriers are alternately referred to as ``reincarnated'', 
``morphed'', or ``chameleon'' carriers, is widespread 
throughout the motor carrier industry. An internal FMCSA memo 
from 2005 stated, ``In reviewing the history of actions 
involving out of service orders for [unsatisfactory] carriers 
and carriers ordered to cease operations for failure to pay 
civil penalties, it has become clear a significant number of 
these carriers are reincarnating or morphing into new business 
entities, and continuing to operate.''
    At the request of the Committee, the Government 
Accountability Office (GAO) investigated the extent to which 
troubled motor coach operators are able to ``reincarnate'' and 
thus evade enforcement actions, skirt out-of-service orders, or 
continue to operate without correcting the flagrant safety 
violations that led to the company's shutdown.
    In a report dated July 31, 2009, GAO identified 20 motor 
coach companies that reincarnated from the 220 carriers FMCSA 
placed out of service in fiscal years 2007 and 2008. This 
represented about nine percent of out-of-service carriers. GAO 
acknowledged that the problem is likely ``understated'' as 
there was no way to identify owners who lied or purposely 
provided false information on their application to hide the 
reincarnation.
    One of these companies had been cited by FMCSA with 78 
safety violations during the two-year period. Fifteen companies 
were cited for violations of the FMCSA drug and alcohol testing 
rules, six were cited for driver qualification violations, and 
five were operating without authority or in violation of an 
out-of-service order. GAO concluded, ``[w]e believe that these 
carriers reincarnated into new companies to evade fines and 
avoid performing the necessary corrective actions.''
    FMCSA admitted that reincarnation has been relatively 
simple for carriers to do and hard for FMCSA to detect. In 
August 2008, FMCSA instituted a process to identify violators 
by checking applicant information against ``poor-performing 
carriers'' in their database. Still, GAO found that two 
carriers were able to reincarnate even with FMCSA's new vetting 
process in place. FMCSA stated that once a reincarnated carrier 
is identified, the agency faces legal hurdles, such as proving 
corporate successorship, to deny a carrier operating authority.

       Corps of Engineers Organizational Structure and Processes

    The Committee has had continuing concerns that the civil 
works program of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) is 
not as efficient as it could be in the development of proposals 
for and construction of projects and programs within its 
jurisdiction.
    To examine possible causes of these inefficiencies, the 
Committee requested that GAO examine the Corps for possible 
areas of improvement. There had not been an external review of 
the Corps structure in decades. There are serious questions as 
to whether the Corps structure, developed in the early 20th 
Century, adequately addresses the needs of the nation in the 
21st Century.
    In preparing the report, GAO developed a historical context 
for the current structure of the Corps, and conducted scores of 
interviews with current and past leaders and interested 
parties.
    GAO made four recommendations. Although GAO was not able to 
get to the level of detail necessary to address the fundamental 
issue of why projects cost so much and take so long, each 
recommendation was designed to improve the efficiency of the 
civil works program.
    The recommendations for the Corps are:
           Review and revise the roles and 
        responsibilities of each component level of the Corps 
        to ensure that they are clearly articulated in agency 
        guidance. GAO found evidence that different levels in 
        the organization do not clearly understand their roles 
        and responsibilities.
           Re-evaluate the Centers of Expertise within 
        the Corps and develop a process to help ensure that the 
        Centers are consistently used across the agency. 
        Centers of Expertise are intended to improve the 
        quality of the Corps planning process, but they are not 
        consistently used by Corps districts.
           Determine the extent to which the agency's 
        technical guidance needs to be updated, create a 
        schedule for completing these updates, and if 
        additional funding is needed to accomplish these 
        updates, provide this information to Congress.
           Work with Congress to develop a more stable 
        project funding approach that facilitates project 
        implementation and that provides more efficient and 
        effective use of funds. The Corps' funding process 
        creates inefficiencies by spreading funds among too 
        many ongoing projects, and by the uncertainty of 
        single-year appropriations.
    In developing the report, GAO looked at broader 
organizational issues, but made no recommendations on 
addressing the number of offices, overhead, or other money and 
time-saving issues. The report indicated that some of the 
officials interviewed questioned whether the Corps program and 
budget could continue to sustain 38 autonomous Corps districts.

                    America's Clean Water Foundation

    Between 1998 and 2004, America's Clean Water Foundation 
(ACWF), a District of Columbia-based environmental non-profit 
entity, received more than $25 million in Congressionally-
designated grants to perform environmental risk assessments at 
hog farms and other animal production facilities. In 2005, the 
Foundation's external auditors discovered that ACWF's recently 
deceased financial manager had embezzled more than $1 million 
in predominantly Federal funds from the Foundation and its co-
located sister agency, the Association of State and Interstate 
Water Pollution Control Administrators (ASIWPCA). This 
discovery prompted the Environmental Protection Agency's 
Inspector General (EPA IG) to audit the associations' 
Federally-funded grants. The EPA IG found that the Foundation 
was unable to provide support for the expenditure of $21 
million of the $25 million in Federal funds it examined.
    Ultimately, ACWF chose to disband and legally filed 
articles of dissolution with the District of Columbia. As a 
result, EPA was not able to recover any of the questioned costs 
nor was it able to determine how the funds had been used.
    The Committee was interested in determining whether the 
missing funds had been used in ways that personally benefitted 
the employees of the Foundation or violated the Federal 
Acquisition Regulations governing use of Federal funds. As 
such, the Committee requested (and subpoenaed) bank account 
records, insurance policies, expense reports, expense vouchers, 
payroll records, email repositories, and electronic data stored 
on the associations' servers. From these data, Committee staff 
identified numerous dubious expenses.
    For example, staff identified questionable charges for 
employee benefits, staff living expenses, entertainment, 
travel, spa, and restaurant meals. The Executive Director of 
ACWF simultaneously drew full-time salaries and benefits from 
both ACWF and its sister association ASIWPCA, which, combined, 
exceeded the salary of the Vice President of the United States. 
Although both associations were located in Washington, D.C., 
and required a full-time Washington presence, the Executive 
Director claimed her primary residence in a resort town on the 
eastern shore of Delaware and charged the Foundation for her 
weekly commuting expenses. The ACWF Board also agreed to pay 
the rent and utilities for a $2,400 per month apartment in 
Washington, D.C., for the Director to reside in during the 
week.
    Despite a lack of management oversight which allowed these 
abuses and the embezzlement to occur, the Director left the 
bankrupt associations with hundreds of thousands of dollars in 
severance and insurance policies. She had purchased insurance 
policies on her own authority without knowledge of or approval 
by the Board.
    As a result of the Committee's investigation, the surviving 
association, ASIWPCA, has instituted numerous procedures and 
policies to ensure that appropriate internal controls are in 
place and that the Board is aware of and actively exercising 
its oversight responsibilities. EPA has also been proactive in 
auditing Federal grants and contracts, including 
Congressionally-directed spending, which EPA had previously 
relegated to a lower priority because of Congressional 
direction on funding.

                     National Defense Reserve Fleet

    The Committee continued its oversight of the Maritime 
Administration's (MARAD) National Defense Reserve Fleet (NDRF). 
MARAD maintains the NDRF, which consists of Ready Reserve Fleet 
(RRF) vessels, and non-retention vessels that are not 
operational due to deterioration.
    When the Committee began its oversight, MARAD maintained 
approximately 140 non-retention vessels that are in need of 
disposal. Many of these vessels contain hazardous materials. 
The vessels are located at Suisan Bay, California; James River, 
Virginia; and Beaumont, Texas. MARAD has been unable to arrange 
for and fund the disposal of these vessels in recent years, and 
has missed deadlines for disposal set by the NDRF. In 2007, 
MARAD began proceeding with ship disposal at the Virginia and 
Texas locations. However, the San Francisco Bay Regional Water 
Quality Control Board expressed concern that the exfoliating 
paint of the vessels violated the Clean Water Act, and the 
dispute resulted in legal action. In April 2010, MARAD reached 
a settlement with the California plaintiffs and has begun 
successfully moving ships from Suisun Bay on an agreed upon 
time table. These vessels should be complete by fiscal year 
2017. At this time, 46 vessels remain in California, 17 vessels 
remain in Virginia, and 11 vessels remain in Texas.

                 Rates for Pilotage on the Great Lakes

    The Committee reviewed the activities of the Coast Guard as 
it relates to setting rates for pilot services on the U.S. 
portion of the Great Lakes. The Coast Guard is responsible for 
establishing the number of pilots that will be available on the 
Great Lakes, and the rates that the pilots may charge for 
services.
    The Committee was provided information indicating that the 
process for setting the number of pilots and rates was not 
objective and transparent. A review of the process was 
conducted and it revealed that the Coast Guard failed to meet 
its responsibilities for setting pilotage rates in a timely 
manner. The review also indicated that there likely was 
personal animosity between the pilots and the Coast Guard.
    Chairman James L. Oberstar informed Secretary of Homeland 
Security Janet Napolitano about the failure of the Coast Guard 
to meet its statutory responsibilities and called for specific 
plans to rectify shortcomings. Chairman Oberstar also called on 
Secretary Napolitano to ensure that future ratemakings are 
transparent, fair, and objective. Finally, the Chairman noted 
that the relations among Coast Guard personnel, pilots, and the 
shipping community could be improved, and requested that 
appropriate steps be taken to ensure that the ratemaking 
process, and its implementation, proceeds as smoothly and 
seamlessly as possible.

  

                       Summary of Activities for

                      the Subcommittee on Aviation

    During the 111th Congress, the Subcommittee on Aviation, 
chaired by Representative Jerry F. Costello, with 
Representative Thomas E. Petri serving as Ranking Member, held 
20 hearings (164 witnesses and approximately 47 hours) and 14 
Members' briefings and roundtables, covering a breadth of 
issues within the jurisdiction of the Subcommittee.
    The Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure 
developed major legislation, H.R. 3371, the ``Airline Safety 
and Pilot Training Improvement Act of 2009'', to strengthen 
pilot qualifications and improve airline safety. The provisions 
of this bill were included in Public Law 111-216, the Airline 
Safety and Federal Aviation Administration Extension Act of 
2010. In addition, the Committee developed H.R. 915, the ``FAA 
Reauthorization Act of 2009'', to reauthorize the Federal 
Aviation Administration (FAA) and provide $53.5 billion over 
three years for FAA programs. On May 21, 2009, the House passed 
H.R. 915 by a roll call vote of 277-136.
    In addition, the Committee developed H.R. 4714, the 
``National Transportation Safety Board Reauthorization Act of 
2010'', which reauthorizes the National Transportation Safety 
Board (NTSB) for fiscal years (FYs) 2011 through 2014 and makes 
a number of statutory changes to explicitly define the NTSB's 
authority. The legislation authorizes appropriations necessary 
to permit the agency to continue its critical work of 
investigating and determining the causes of aviation incidents 
and accidents. On September 28, 2010, the House passed H.R. 
4714 passed by voice vote.
    The following bills and resolutions were enacted in the 
111th Congress:
           Public Law 111-216, the Airline Safety and 
        Federal Aviation Administration Extension Act of 2010,
           Public Law 111-329, the Airport and Airway 
        Extension Act of 2010, Part IV,
           Public Law 111-249, the Airport and Airway 
        Extension Act of 2010, Part III,
           Public Law 111-197, the Airport and Airway 
        Extension Act of 2010, Part II,
           Public Law 111-161, the Airport and Airway 
        Extension Act of 2010,
           Public Law 111-153, the Federal Aviation 
        Administration Extension Act of 2010,
           Public Law 111-116, Fiscal Year 2010 Federal 
        Aviation Administration Extension Act, Part II,
           Public Law 111-69, Fiscal Year 2010 Federal 
        Aviation Administration Extension Act,
           Public Law 111-12, Federal Aviation 
        Administration Extension Act of 2009,
           Public Law 111-326, to designate the airport 
        traffic control tower located at Spokane International 
        Airport in Spokane, Washington, as the ``Ray Daves 
        Airport Traffic Control Tower'',
           S. Con. Res. 61, expressing the sense of the 
        Congress that general aviation pilots and industry 
        should be recognized for the contributions made in 
        response to Haiti earthquake relief efforts,
           H. Res. 84, honoring the heroic actions of 
        the pilot, crew, and rescuers of US Airways Flight 
        1549,
           H. Res. 183, expressing condolences to the 
        families, friends, and loved ones of the victims of the 
        crash of Continental Connection Flight 3407,
           H. Res. 472, congratulating and saluting the 
        seventieth anniversary of the Aircraft Owners and 
        Pilots Association and their dedication to general 
        aviation, safety and the important contribution general 
        aviation provides to the United States,
           H. Res. 508, expressing the sense of the 
        House of Representatives that the general aviation 
        industry should be recognized for its contributions to 
        the United States,
           H. Res. 719, commending Russ Meyer on his 
        induction into the National Aviation Hall of Fame,
           H. Res. 1284, supporting the goals and 
        ideals of International Learn to Fly Day,
           H. Res. 1401, expressing gratitude for the 
        contributions that the air traffic controllers of the 
        United States make to keep the traveling public safe 
        and the airspace of the United States running 
        efficiently,
           H. Res. 1473, supporting backcountry 
        airstrips and recreational aviation, and
           H. Res. 1669, congratulating the National 
        Air Transportation Association for celebrating its 70th 
        anniversary.
    Other bills and resolutions that passed the House include:
           H.R. 915, the ``FAA Reauthorization Act of 
        2009'',
           H.R. 4714, the ``National Transportation 
        Safety Board Reauthorization Act of 2010'',
           H.R. 1178, directing the Comptroller General 
        of the United States to conduct a study on the use of 
        Civil Air Patrol personnel and resources to support 
        homeland security missions, and
           H. Con. Res. 138, recognizing the 40th 
        anniversary of the George Bush Intercontinental Airport 
        in Houston, Texas.

                      Public Laws and Resolutions


  Airline Safety and Federal Aviation Administration Extension Act of 
                                  2010


                           Public Law 111-216


                              (H.R. 5900)


                          (See also H.R. 3371)


                             August 1, 2010

    The most recent long-term Federal Aviation Administration 
(FAA) reauthorization act, Vision 100--Century of Aviation 
Reauthorization Act (Vision 100) (P.L. 108-176), expired 
September 30, 2007. In 2009, the House passed H.R. 915, the 
``FAA Reauthorization Act of 2009''. In March 2010, the Senate 
passed its own comprehensive FAA reauthorization act. Pending 
final enactment of a long-term reauthorization bill, Congress 
has passed a series of short-term acts extending the FAA's 
authority to administer aviation programs and to receive tax 
proceeds. The authority extended by a prior extension act, P.L. 
111-197, expired August 1, 2010. Public Law 111-216 extended 
that authority through September 30, 2010.
    In addition, the law incorporates the provisions of H.R. 
3371, the ``Airline Safety and Pilot Training Improvement Act 
of 2009''. These provisions require meaningful improvements to 
the safety of U.S. airline operations. The law increases pilot 
training, qualifications, screening and professional 
development. It establishes an FAA Task Force that will 
identify aviation industry best practices regarding: pilot 
training, pilot professional standards, and inter-carrier 
information sharing, mentoring and other safety-related 
practices. In addition, the law requires the FAA to ensure that 
pilots are trained on stall recovery and upset recovery, and 
that airlines provide remedial training. The law mandates that 
the FAA convene a multidisciplinary panel on pilot training for 
stick pusher operations (which pulls an aircraft out of a 
stall), and to implement the recommendations of the panel. 
Further, it requires the Secretary of Transportation to provide 
an annual report to Congress on how the agency is addressing 
each open National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) 
recommendation pertaining to part 121 (commercial) air 
carriers.
    The law requires airline pilots to hold an Airline 
Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate, which requires a 
prerequisite of 1,500 flight hours. Additionally, the law 
mandates that the FAA raise other minimum requirements for the 
ATP certificate, to include training to function effectively in 
an air carrier operational environment; adverse weather 
conditions, including icing; high altitude operations; and a 
multi-pilot crew. It also enables the FAA to consider allowing 
certain academic training to be counted towards the 1,500-hour 
ATP certificate requirement. The law establishes comprehensive 
pre-employment screening of prospective pilots and establishes 
a pilot records database to provide airlines with fast, 
electronic access to a pilot's comprehensive record. In 
addition, the law requires the FAA to convene a 
multidisciplinary panel on pilot training for weather events.
    To address issues related to pilot fatigue, the law directs 
the FAA to update and implement new pilot flight- and duty-time 
rules and fatigue risk management plans to more adequately 
track scientific research in the field of fatigue. The law also 
studies the impact of pilots' commuting practices on fatigue 
and provides preliminary results to the FAA to be considered as 
part of the flight- and duty-time rulemaking.
    The law emphasizes the importance of voluntary safety 
programs, which create a partnership between pilots and airline 
management to voluntarily disclose safety problems without fear 
of punishment. It directs the FAA to develop and implement a 
plan to facilitate the establishment of an Aviation Safety 
Action Program and a Flight Operational Quality Assurance 
program by all commercial airlines and their unions. The law 
also requires the FAA to report on several of its safety 
programs, including an analysis of which airlines are using the 
programs; how the FAA will expand the use of the programs; and 
how the FAA is using data from the programs as safety analysis 
and oversight tools for aviation safety inspectors.
    The law directs the Government Accountability Office (GAO) 
to conduct a study of: pilot academic training requirements; 
pilot education provided by accredited two- and four-year 
colleges/universities; foreign academic requirements; the FAA's 
oversight of flight schools; and student loan options available 
to student pilots. In addition, the law requires the Department 
of Transportation Inspector General (DOT IG) to study the FAA's 
safety oversight tools and resources used to oversee regional 
airlines. To enhance consumer transparency, the law mandates 
that Internet websites that sell airline tickets disclose to 
the purchaser on the first page of the website the air carrier 
that operates each segment of the flight.

           Airport and Airway Extension Act of 2010, Part IV


                           Public Law 111-329


                              (H.R. 6473)


                           December 22, 2010

    The most recent long-term FAA reauthorization act, Vision 
100, expired September 30, 2007. In 2009, the House passed H.R. 
915, the ``FAA Reauthorization Act of 2009''. In March 2010, 
the Senate passed its own comprehensive FAA reauthorization 
act. As of December 2, 2010, the House and Senate have not been 
able to resolve the differences between both bills.
    Pending final enactment of a long-term reauthorization 
bill, Congress has passed a series of short-term acts extending 
the FAA's authority to administer aviation programs and to 
receive tax proceeds. The authority extended by a prior 
extension act, P.L. 111-249, expires December 31, 2010. Because 
work to reconcile the long-term bills passed by the House and 
Senate may not be completed before the current authority for 
aviation programs expires, Public Law 111-329 extends that 
authority through March 31, 2011.
    The Airport and Airway Extension Act of 2010, Part IV (P.L. 
111-329) extends the authorization of appropriations for 
aviation programs; excise taxes on aviation fuels and air 
transportation of persons and property; and the expenditure 
authority for the Airport and Airway Trust Fund through March 
31, 2011. This legislation also extends through March 31, 2011, 
various airport development projects, including: (1) the pilot 
program for passenger facility fees at nonhub airports; (2) 
small airport grants for airports located in the Marshall 
Islands, Micronesia, and Palau; (3) state and local airport 
land use compatibility projects; (4) the authority of the 
Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority to apply for an 
airport development grant and impose a passenger facility fee; 
(5) the temporary increase to 95 percent in the government 
share of certain Airport Improvement Program (AIP) project 
costs; and (6) Midway Island airport development. It also 
extends through March 31, 2011, AIP projects and project grant 
authority, as well as the U.S. Department of Transportation 
(DOT) insurance coverage for domestic and foreign-flag air 
carriers. Air carrier liability limits for injuries to 
passengers resulting from acts of terrorism are extended 
through June 30, 2011.

           Airport and Airway Extension Act of 2010, Part III


                           Public Law 111-249


                              (H.R. 6190)


                           September 30, 2010

    The most recent long-term FAA reauthorization act, Vision 
100, expired September 30, 2007. In 2009, the House passed H.R. 
915, the ``FAA Reauthorization Act of 2009''. On March 22, 
2010, the Senate passed H.R. 1586, its own comprehensive 
reauthorization bill. As of September 30, 2010, however, both 
the House and Senate had not yet enacted reconciled, long-term 
FAA reauthorization legislation.
    Pending both chambers' passage of a long-term 
reauthorization bill, Congress has passed a series of short-
term acts extending the FAA's authority to administer aviation 
programs and to receive tax proceeds. The authority extended by 
a prior extension act, P.L. 111-216, expired September 30, 
2010. Public Law 111-249 extended that authority through 
December 31, 2010.

           Airport and Airway Extension Act of 2010, Part II


                           Public Law 111-197


                              (H.R. 5611)


                              July 2, 2010

    The most recent long-term FAA reauthorization act, Vision 
100, expired September 30, 2007. In 2009, the House passed H.R. 
915, the ``FAA Reauthorization Act of 2009''. In March, the 
Senate passed its own comprehensive FAA reauthorization act. 
Pending final enactment of a long-term reauthorization bill, 
Congress has passed a series of short-term acts extending the 
FAA's authority to administer aviation programs and to receive 
tax proceeds. The authority extended by a prior extension act, 
P.L. 111-197, expired July 3, 2010. Public Law 111-197 extended 
that authority through August 1, 2010.

                Airport and Airway Extension Act of 2010


                           Public Law 111-161


                              (H.R. 5147)


                             April 30, 2010

    The most recent long-term FAA reauthorization act, Vision 
100, expired September 30, 2007. In 2009, the House passed H.R. 
915, the ``FAA Reauthorization Act of 2009''. In March, the 
Senate passed its own comprehensive FAA reauthorization act. 
Pending final enactment of a long-term reauthorization bill, 
Congress has passed a series of short-term acts extending the 
FAA's authority to administer aviation programs and to receive 
tax proceeds. The authority extended by a prior extension act, 
P.L. 111-153, expired April 30, 2010. Public Law 111-161 
extended that authority for another two months, through July 3, 
2010.

         Federal Aviation Administration Extension Act of 2010


                           Public Law 111-153


                              (H.R. 4957)


                             March 31, 2010

    The most recent long-term FAA reauthorization act, Vision 
100, expired September 30, 2007. In 2009, the House passed H.R. 
915, the ``FAA Reauthorization Act of 2009''. On March 22, 
2010, the Senate passed H.R. 1586, its own comprehensive 
reauthorization bill. Pending both chambers' passage of a long-
term reauthorization bill, Congress has passed a series of 
short-term acts extending the FAA's authority to administer 
aviation programs and to receive tax proceeds. The authority 
extended by a prior extension act, P.L. 111-116, expired on 
March 31, 2010. Public Law 111-153 extended the FAA's necessary 
authority through April 30, 2010.

Fiscal Year 2010 Federal Aviation Administration Extension Act, Part II


                           Public Law 111-116


                              (H.R. 4217)


                           December 16, 2009

    The most recent long-term FAA reauthorization act, Vision 
100, expired September 30, 2007. In 2009, the House passed H.R. 
915, the ``FAA Reauthorization Act of 2009''. Pending 
completion of a long-term reauthorization bill, Congress has 
passed a series of short-term acts extending the FAA's 
authority to administer aviation programs and to receive tax 
proceeds. The authority extended by a prior extension act, P.L. 
111-69, expired on December 31, 2010. Public Law 111-116 
extended the FAA's necessary authority through March 31, 2010.

     Fiscal Year 2010 Federal Aviation Administration Extension Act


                           Public Law 111-69


                              (H.R. 3607)


                            October 1, 2009

    The most recent long-term FAA reauthorization act, Vision 
100, expired September 30, 2007. In 2009, the House passed H.R. 
915, the ``FAA Reauthorization Act of 2009''. Pending 
completion of a long-term reauthorization bill, Congress has 
passed a series of short-term acts extending the FAA's 
authority to administer aviation programs and to receive tax 
proceeds. The authority extended by a prior extension act, P.L. 
111-12, expired October 31, 2010. Public Law 111-69 extended 
the FAA's necessary authority through December 31, 2010.

         Federal Aviation Administration Extension Act of 2009


                           Public Law 111-12


                              (H.R. 1512)


                             March 30, 2009

    The Federal Aviation Administration Extension Act of 2009 
(P.L. 111-12) extends the authorization of appropriations for 
aviation programs; excise taxes on aviation fuels and air 
transportation of persons and property; and the expenditure 
authority for the Airport and Airway Trust Fund through fiscal 
year (FY) 2009. This legislation also extends through FY 2009 
various airport development projects, including: (1) the pilot 
program for passenger facility fees at nonhub airports; (2) 
small airport grants for airports located in the Marshall 
Islands, Micronesia, and Palau; (3) state and local airport 
land use compatibility projects; (4) the authority of the 
Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority to apply for an 
airport development grant and impose a passenger facility fee; 
(5) the temporary increase to 95 percent in the government 
share of certain AIP project costs; and (6) Midway Island 
airport development. It also extends, through FY 2009, AIP 
projects and project grant authority, as well as the DOT 
insurance coverage for domestic and foreign-flag air carriers. 
Air carrier liability limits for injuries to passengers 
resulting from acts of terrorism are extended through December 
31, 2009.

   To Designate the Airport Traffic Control Tower Located at Spokane 
 International Airport in Spokane, Washington, as the ``Ray Daves Air 
                        Traffic Control Tower''


                           Public Law 111-326


                              (H.R. 5591)


                           December 22, 2010

    This law designates the airport traffic control tower 
located at the Spokane International Airport in Spokane, 
Washington, as the ``Ray Daves Air Traffic Control Tower''. Ray 
Daves was a radioman for the U.S. Navy at the Pacific Fleet 
Headquarters in Oahu, Hawaii, during the Japanese attack on 
Pearl Harbor. When World War II was over, Daves became a 
civilian air traffic controller at Geiger Field, later known as 
the Spokane International Airport, in Spokane, Washington. He 
worked as an air traffic controller there from 1946 to 1974.

 Expressing the Sense of the Congress That General Aviation Pilots and 
Industry Should Be Recognized for the Contributions Made in Response to 
                    Haiti Earthquake Relief Efforts


                           (S. Con. Res. 61)


                              May 12, 2010

    S. Con. Res. 61 expresses the shared determination that 
Congress recognizes the many contributions of general aviation 
pilots and industry to the Haiti earthquake relief efforts. The 
concurrent resolution further encourages the continued 
generosity of general aviation pilots and operators in the 
ongoing humanitarian relief efforts in Haiti.

  Honoring the Heroic Actions of the Pilot, Crew, and Rescuers of US 
                          Airways Flight 1549


                              (H. Res. 84)


                            January 26, 2009

    H. Res. 84 honors the heroic actions of the pilot, crew, 
and rescuers of US Airways Flight 1549, which made an emergency 
landing on the Hudson River on January 15, 2009, following dual 
engine failure minutes after its departure from LaGuardia 
Airport. The resolution commends the skill with which Captain 
Chesley B. Sullenberger III and his copilot Jeffrey B. Skiles 
masterfully landed the plane on the river; as well as flight 
attendants Doreen Welsh, Donna Dent, and Sheila Dail, who 
quickly evacuated all 150 passengers. It also praises the U.S. 
Coast Guard, police, and ferry boats, for arriving to rescue 
the passengers within minutes of the accident.

Expressing Condolences to the Families, Friends, and Loved Ones of the 
       Victims of the Crash of Continental Connection Flight 3407


                             (H. Res. 183)


                           February 26, 2009

    H. Res. 183 expresses sympathy to those who lost family, 
friends, and loved ones in the tragic crash of Continental 
Connection Flight 3407, operated by Colgan Air. The lives of 
all 49 passengers and crew on the flight were lost on February 
12, 2009, when Flight 3407 crashed in Clarence Center, New 
York, about five miles outside of Buffalo. The Bombardier Dash 
8-400 was en route from Newark Liberty International Airport 
and it had begun its descent into Buffalo Niagara International 
Airport. The plane crashed into a house on the ground, killing 
one person inside as well. The resolution honors the lives that 
were lost on Flight 3407 and commends the first responders, 
emergency services personnel, volunteers, and air traffic 
controllers for their work.

Congratulating and Saluting the Seventieth Anniversary of the Aircraft 
 Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) and Their Dedication to General 
   Aviation, Safety and the Important Contribution General Aviation 
                     Provides to the United States


                             (H. Res. 472)


                              June 9, 2009

    H. Res. 472 congratulates and salutes the seventieth 
anniversary of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association 
(AOPA) and its dedication to general aviation and safety, and 
the important contribution that general aviation provides to 
the United States. In addition, the resolution commends AOPA 
for: creating the Air Safety Foundation, leading the recovery 
of the general aviation light aircraft manufacturing industry, 
and setting the stage for the development of Next Generation 
Air Transportation System by being an early proponent of the 
civilian use of the global positioning system. AOPA was 
incorporated on May 15, 1939, as a non-profit organization 
dedicated to general aviation.

 Expressing the Sense of the House of Representatives That the General 
  Aviation Industry Should Be Recognized for Its Contributions to the 
                             United States


                             (H. Res. 508)


                             July 29, 2009

    H. Res. 508 expresses support for the general aviation 
industry, recognizes general aviation's contributions to the 
United States, and encourages general aviation activity. 
General aviation includes all civilian flying except scheduled 
passenger airline activity. General aviation transports 170 
million passengers annually, on over 230,000 aircraft. In 
addition, general aviation stimulates local and regional 
economies--it comprises over $150 billion in direct and 
indirect economic output and supports almost 1.3 million jobs.

Commending Russ Meyer on His Induction Into the National Aviation Hall 
                                of Fame


                             (H. Res. 719)


                            October 14, 2009

    H. Res. 719 congratulates Russell W. Meyer for being 
inducted into the National Aviation Hall of Fame and recognizes 
his achievements and his lifetime of service to the aviation 
industry. Russ Meyer received a Bachelor of Arts degree from 
Yale, and Doctor of Law degree from Harvard. He went on to 
serve in both the Air Force and the Marine Corps Reserves as a 
fighter pilot from 1955-1961. As Cessna Aircraft Company 
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer from 1975 to 2003, Meyer 
advocated for the General Aviation Revitalization Act of 1994, 
which limited liability for aircraft manufacturers. He also 
expanded Cessna's Citation line of business jets, winning two 
Collier Trophies. In 1995, he won the Wright Brothers Memorial 
Trophy for his role in the creation of the Citation Special 
Olympics Airlift, which coordinated hundreds of owners of 
Citation aircraft to transport athletes from around the country 
to the Special Olympics National Games. Meyer also helped to 
develop the ``Be a Pilot Program'', which encouraged flight 
training schools to offer reduced rates on introductory flight 
training lessons. The ``Be a Pilot Program'' led to tens of 
thousands of new pilots. On July 19, 2009, Meyer was enshrined 
into the National Aviation Hall of Fame.

 Supporting the Goals and Ideals of National Learn To Fly Day, and for 
                             Other Purposes


                             (H. Res. 1284)


                              May 12, 2010

    H. Res. 1284 supports the goals and ideals of National 
Learn To Fly Day and recognizes the contributions of flight 
instructors, flight schools, aviation groups, and industry in 
promoting and teaching the nation's next generation of pilots.

    Expressing Gratitude for the Contributions That the Air Traffic 
Controllers of the United States Make To Keep the Traveling Public Safe 
  and the Airspace of the United States Running Efficiently, and for 
                             Other Purposes


                             (H. Res. 1401)


                             July 27, 2010

    Air traffic controllers are responsible for ensuring the 
safety of approximately two million aviation passengers a day 
by providing separation services to aircraft operating in the 
national airspace system. Air traffic controllers react to 
highly complex and sometimes dangerous situations on a daily 
basis. In addition, they are responsible for working seven days 
a week, 24 hours a day, including holidays. Due to the highly 
stressful nature of the job, which requires total 
concentration, air traffic controllers must retire by age 56.
    Currently, more than 15,700 controllers, including those at 
the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City, air traffic control 
facilities, and the Air Traffic System Command Center, are 
employed in the United States.
    H. Res. 1401 describes nine separate incidents where 
controllers saved many lives by providing excellent service in 
a calm and professional manner. The resolution recognizes the 
nation's air traffic controllers by expressing gratitude for 
the contributions that air traffic controllers make to keep the 
traveling public safe and the airspace of the United States 
running efficiently. It commends air traffic controllers for 
the calm and professional manner in which they ensure 
separation of air traffic. H. Res. 1401 also acknowledges air 
traffic controllers' heroic action, dedication, and quick and 
skillful decision-making.
    Furthermore, the resolution encourages greater investment 
in the modernization of the nation's air traffic control system 
so that air traffic controllers have the resources and 
technology needed to better carry out their mission as air 
travel continues to grow.

       Supporting Backcountry Airstrips and Recreational Aviation


                             (H. Res. 1473)


                           September 15, 2010

    H. Res. 1473 recognizes the value of recreational aviation 
and backcountry airstrips located on the nation's public lands 
and commends aviators and the various organizations that 
maintain these airstrips for public use.
    In general, a backcountry airstrip is an unattended landing 
area in a location that provides access to remote, undeveloped 
rural areas by aircraft, usually airplanes. Backcountry 
airstrips allow enhanced access for a variety of recreational 
activities, emergency services, firefighting, and land 
management activities, and they provide a means of access to 
remote areas for physically disadvantaged individuals who might 
not otherwise be able to get to remote locations for leisure. 
These airstrips also serve as efficient access points for 
tourists, who in turn contribute to local economies and small 
businesses. More importantly, in the event of mechanical 
problems or inclement weather, they serve as emergency landing 
sites for aircraft when larger airports are out of reach.
    Many backcountry airstrips are privately owned. However, 
several state aviation offices own and operate backcountry 
airstrips, and many airstrips are owned by public agencies 
involved in land management, such as the U.S. Forest Service, 
National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, and the 
Bureau of Reclamation.

    Congratulating the National Air Transportation Association for 
                    Celebrating Its 70th Anniversary


                             (H. Res. 1669)


                            December 1, 2010

    H. Res. 1669 recognizes National Air Transportation 
Association's (NATA) historical contributions to general 
aviation and congratulates NATA for celebrating its 70th 
anniversary. NATA was founded on December 28, 1940, at a 
critical moment in the development of general aviation in the 
United States. Today, NATA represents more than 2,000 member 
companies that own, operate, or service aircraft and provide 
for the needs of the traveling public by offering services and 
products to aircraft operators and others.

                           Other Legislation


                    FAA Reauthorization Act of 2009


                               (H.R. 915)


                    Passed the House on May 21, 2009

    The bill provides $53.4 billion over three years for the 
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and reauthorizes FAA 
programs from fiscal year (FY) 2010 to FY 2012. The bill 
authorizes $30.3 billion over three years for FAA operations, 
including funding to hire additional safety inspectors; $12.3 
billion over three years for the Airport Improvement Program 
(AIP), which provides grants for projects at airports; and 
$10.1 billion over three years for FAA facilities and 
equipment. The bill provides for a modest increase in the 
general aviation jet fuel tax rate from 21.8 cents per gallon 
to 35.9 cents per gallon; and increases the aviation gasoline 
tax rate from 19.3 cents per gallon to 24.1 cents per gallon to 
provide for the robust capital funding required to modernize 
the Air Traffic Control (ATC) system, as well as to stabilize 
and strengthen the Airport and Airway Trust Fund. Moreover, the 
bill increases the passenger facility charge cap to $7.00 from 
$4.50 to combat inflation and to help airports meet increased 
capital needs.
    H.R. 915 increases the total amount authorized for the 
Essential Air Service (EAS) program each year from $127 million 
to $200 million (including $50 million derived from overflight 
fees). To improve the quality of air service received by EAS 
communities, the bill authorizes the Secretary to incorporate 
financial incentives into EAS contracts based on specified 
performance goals. To encourage increased air carrier 
participation, the bill authorizes the Secretary of 
Transportation to enter into long-term EAS contracts that would 
provide more stability for participating air carriers. H.R. 915 
also extends the Small Community Air Service Development 
program through FY 2012, at the current authorized funding 
level of $35 million per year.
    H.R. 915 contains several environment-related provisions: a 
phase-out of stage 2 aircraft over the next five years; a pilot 
program for developing, maturing, and certifying continuous 
lower energy, emissions and noise engine and airframe 
technology; and a program to fund six projects at public-use 
airports to take promising environmental research concepts into 
the actual airport environment.
    The bill authorizes $36 million for runway incursion 
reduction programs over three years, authorizes $275 million 
for runway status light acquisition and installation over three 
years, and requires FAA to submit a strategic runway safety 
plan to Congress. The bill also requires safety inspections of 
foreign repair stations at least twice a year. The bill creates 
an independent Aviation Safety Whistleblower Investigation 
Office within the FAA; mandates a two-year post-service 
``cooling off'' period after FAA inspectors leave the FAA; 
requires that principal supervisory inspectors must be rotated 
between airline oversight offices every five years; and 
requires monthly reviews of the Air Transportation Oversight 
System database to ensure that trends in regulatory compliance 
are identified and appropriate corrective actions taken.
    The bill also enhances airline consumer protections. It 
provides for a Government Accountability Office (GAO) study of 
the Department of Transportation's (DOT) policies for granting 
antitrust immunity for airline alliances; and sunsets, after 
three years, grants of antitrust immunity unless each grant is 
renewed by the Secretary of the DOT. H.R. 915 also requires 
airlines and airports to have emergency contingency plans and 
detail how they will allow passengers to deplane following 
excessive delays. The DOT is also required to publicize and 
maintain a hotline for consumer complaints, establish an 
Advisory Committee for Aviation Consumer Protection, and expand 
consumer complaints investigated. Air carriers are also 
required to report diverted and canceled flight information 
monthly. Further, the DOT is directed to prohibit the use of 
voice communication using a mobile phone on scheduled flights.
    The bill mandates that if the FAA and one of its bargaining 
units do not reach agreement in the collective bargaining 
process, the services of the Federal Mediation and Conciliation 
Service shall be used or the parties may agree to an 
alternative dispute resolution procedure. The bill also amends 
the Railway Labor Act (RLA) to clarify that employees of an 
``express carrier'' shall only be covered by the RLA if they 
are employed in a position that is eligible for certification 
under FAA's rules, such as mechanics or pilots, and they are 
actually performing that type of work for the express carrier. 
All other express carrier employees would be covered by the 
National Labor Relations Act.

  The National Transportation Safety Board Reauthorization Act of 2010


                              (H.R. 4714)


                 Passed the House on September 28, 2010

    H.R. 4714, the ``National Transportation Safety Board 
Reauthorization Act of 2010'', reauthorizes the National 
Transportation Safety Board (NTSB or Safety Board) for fiscal 
years (FY) 2011 through 2014 and makes a number of statutory 
changes to explicitly define the Safety Board's authority. The 
legislation authorizes appropriations necessary to permit the 
Safety Board to continue its critical work of investigating and 
determining the causes of aviation incidents and accidents. 
Specifically, the bill establishes authorization levels to 
provide funding to allow the NTSB to meet its critical mission 
of investigating transportation accidents and incidents. The 
authorization levels will enable NTSB to meet its optimal 
staffing level and, ultimately, increase its staff by 66 full-
time equivalent (FTE) positions to a total of 477 FTEs.
    H.R. 4714 explicitly clarifies that the NTSB has the 
authority to investigate transportation ``incidents'' (i.e., 
events that do not involve loss of life or substantial damage 
but that affect transportation safety), in addition to 
``accidents''. The definition would be applicable to the modes 
of aviation, rail, pipelines, and highways. In addition, H.R. 
4714 permits the NTSB to identify more than one cause of an 
accident. The NTSB's mandate of identifying, when applicable, 
more than one cause will be consistent with the practice of 
international accident-investigation agencies.
    The legislation ensures that NTSB investigators, their 
designees, and delegates have the authority that they need to 
conduct on-scene investigation for the NTSB, including the 
ability to enter the property where an accident occurred or 
inspect records related to an accident. H.R. 4714 also ensures 
that NTSB investigators have access to the proprietary 
information necessary to read and interpret data from 
electronic navigational and other equipment in vehicles 
involved in accidents.
    Further, the bill requires the NTSB to develop criteria for 
determining whether or not to hold a public hearing with 
respect to a particular investigation or safety study and to 
report, annually, the reasons why hearings were not held for 
investigations or studies of incidents that caused significant 
loss of life or property damage or that involve a national 
transportation safety issue.
    Where current law protects certain trade secrets from 
disclosure by NTSB employees in most circumstances, the bill 
extends that protection to cover commercial and financial 
information in the NTSB's possession as well, as long as such 
information is otherwise protected under an exemption from the 
disclosure requirements of the Freedom of Information Act. H.R. 
4714 provides that these limitations on disclosure apply to 
disclosure of proprietary data obtained by the NTSB to read and 
interpret data from electronic navigational and other equipment 
in vehicles involved in accidents.
    H.R. 4714 facilitates cooperation between the NTSB and 
Coast Guard in the investigation of major marine casualties by 
permitting the NTSB to delegate the Safety Board's full 
authority to investigate major marine casualties to the Coast 
Guard if the NTSB determines that Coast Guard personnel 
assigned to investigate marine casualties possess the training, 
experience, and qualifications to employ best investigation 
practices. Consistent with the NTSB's current practice, the 
bill also requires the NTSB to provide for the participation of 
the Commandant of the Coast Guard in appropriate NTSB 
investigations.
    H.R. 4714 requires air carriers to communicate certain 
information to the families of accident victims. Moreover, the 
bill requires that air carriers' plans to assist the families 
of aviation accident victims incorporate a process to notify 
the family members prior to the destruction of unclaimed and 
unassociated personal effects.

  To Direct the Comptroller General of the United States To Conduct a 
Study on the Use of Civil Air Patrol Personnel and Resources To Support 
                       Homeland Security Missions


                              (H.R. 1178)


                    Passed the House on May 12, 2009

    H.R. 1178 directs the Comptroller General to conduct a 
study of the functions and capabilities of the Civil Air Patrol 
to support the homeland security missions of State, local and 
tribal governments and the Department of Homeland Security. The 
report will focus on the cost-effectiveness of using the Civil 
Air Patrol to support a security mission and whether current 
mechanisms and agreements are sufficient or whether new 
agreements between Federal agencies and the Civil Air Patrol 
are necessary to request support. The Secretary of Homeland 
Security is directed to review and analyze the study, make 
recommendations for further action, and submit a report to the 
committees of jurisdiction in the House of Representatives and 
the Senate within 90 days of the completion of the Comptroller 
General's study. The Civil Air Patrol has regularly assisted 
States since its inception at the beginning of World War II. 
Its service to the nation includes emergency response during 
national disasters as well as search and rescue operations.

 Recognizing the 40th Anniversary of the George Bush Intercontinental 
                       Airport in Houston, Texas


                           (H. Con. Res. 138)


                  Passed the House on October 14, 2009

    H. Con. Res. 138 congratulates the officials of the George 
Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), the Houston Airport 
System, and the City of Houston, Texas, for the 40 years of 
service the airport has provided to Houston and the nation. 
Since IAH opened in 1969, 700 million people have passed 
through its gates. The airport is the eighth largest airport in 
the United States, serving over 43 million passengers in 2008. 
IAH offers 109 domestic and 65 nonstop international 
destinations in over 32 countries by 30 airlines. IAH is a 
regional and world leader in air cargo processing, 
consolidation, and distribution. It contributes $24 billion in 
economic benefits to the Houston region and more than 151,000 
jobs.

                                Hearings

    During the 111th Congress, the Subcommittee on Aviation 
held 21 hearings and 14 Members' briefings and roundtables.

                  The FAA Reauthorization Act of 2009

    On February 11, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on reauthorization of the FAA. On February 9, 
2009, Chairman James L. Oberstar introduced H.R. 915, the ``FAA 
Reauthorization Act of 2009''. The funding authorization for 
aviation programs, as set forth in Vision 100--Century of 
Aviation Reauthorization Act (Vision 100) (P.L. 108-176), and 
authorization for taxes and fees that provide revenue for the 
Airport and Airway Trust Fund expired at the end of fiscal year 
2007. Revenue collections and FAA programs have been extended 
by law multiple times. The hearing covered issues of funding 
and financing the Airport and Airway Trust Fund, which helps 
fund the development of a nationwide airport and airway system, 
as well as FAA investments in air traffic control facilities. 
The Airport and Airway Trust Fund supplies all of the funding 
for the Airport Improvement Program, which provides grants for 
construction and safety projects.
    The hearing also discussed FAA's Facilities and Equipment 
(F&E) program, which includes development, installation, and 
transitional maintenance of navigational and communication 
equipment to support aviation operations. It supplies equipment 
for more than 3,500 facilities nationwide. The F&E program is 
also the FAA's primary vehicle for modernizing the national 
airspace system (NAS) with new surveillance, automation, and 
communications systems. The hearing also looked at safety 
issues, commercial service to small communities, consumer 
protections, environmental enhancements, and labor protections 
contained in H.R. 915.
    The Subcommittee heard testimony from officials with the 
FAA, Government Accountability Office (GAO), the Department of 
Transportation Inspector General (DOT IG), airport and airline 
associations, labor unions, and consumer associations. 
Witnesses testified on the importance of enacting a long-term 
FAA reauthorization act and offered suggestions for 
improvements to the legislation.

                    US Airways Flight 1549 Accident

    On February 24, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the US Airways Flight 1549 accident. On 
January 15, 2009, US Airways Flight 1549 ditched into the 
Hudson River following a double engine failure while en route 
to Charlotte Douglas International Airport. There were 150 
passengers onboard the Airbus A320, in addition to the crew: 
Captain Chesley ``Sully'' B. Sullenberger III, First Officer 
Jeffrey Skiles, and flight attendants Sheila Dail, Doreen 
Welsh, and Donna Dent. Approximately 90 seconds after Flight 
1549 departed LaGuardia Airport, the aircraft collided with a 
flock of birds, several of which were ingested into both 
engines and caused both engines to fail. During this time, 
Captain Sullenberger communicated with Air Traffic Control 
Specialist Patrick Harten, at the New York Terminal Radar 
Approach Control facility, which provides air traffic control 
(ATC) services to aircraft departing LaGuardia and other 
airports in the New York area.
    Determining that the aircraft had almost no engine thrust, 
Captain Sullenberger discerned that a controlled ditching of 
the aircraft in the Hudson River presented the best chance of 
survival for the passengers and crew. He and First Officer 
Skiles performed a successful water landing. Passengers filed 
out onto the aircraft wings through over-wing exits and into 
the slide rafts through the left and right cabin doors of the 
aircraft. Within minutes of the water landing, ferry boats, 
police boats, and the U.S. Coast Guard rescued all 155 people.
    The hearing explored safety issues, including pilot and 
crew procedures for emergency landings, crew training, aircraft 
engineering to improve crash survivability, and bird strikes. 
The Subcommittee heard testimony from all five flight 
crewmembers and Mr. Harten, the air traffic controller. Members 
of Congress congratulated the crew for its heroic performance. 
In addition, the Subcommittee heard testimony from the NTSB on 
its investigation of the accident, the FAA, pilot associations, 
and bird strike and wildlife experts. Following the hearing, 
the Subcommittee held an in-depth roundtable discussion 
focusing on the issue of bird strikes and received information 
on engine design standards to handle birds, airport bird 
mitigation strategies, and avian radar detection systems.

       ATC Modernization and Nextgen: Near-Term Achievable Goals

    On March 18, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on ATC modernization and the FAA's Next 
Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen), focusing on 
near-term achievable goals. Under the current U.S. ATC system, 
controller workload, radio frequency voice-communication, 
congestion, and the coverage and accuracy of ground-based 
navigational signals impose practical limitations on the 
capacity and throughput of aircraft in the system.
    By 2025, air traffic is projected to increase two- to 
three-fold, equating to about 100,000 to 150,000 flights every 
24 hours. It is widely acknowledged that the current U.S. air 
transportation system will not be able to meet these air 
traffic demands. In 2003, Congress created the Joint Planning 
and Development Office (JPDO) within the FAA, and tasked it 
with developing a NextGen plan that will meet anticipated 
demand and allow for expected increases in traffic volume.
    The NextGen plan will consist of new concepts and 
capabilities for air traffic management and communications, 
navigations, and surveillance. The FAA plans to invest $5.3 
billion on NextGen capital and research, engineering, and 
development programs between fiscal years 2009 and 2013.
    At the hearing, the Subcommittee heard testimony from 
officials of the FAA, Department of Transportation (DOT), DOT 
IG, and GAO. Other witnesses included witnesses from MITRE, 
which is conducting research on NextGen projects, and industry 
associations and labor unions, including pilot and air traffic 
controller unions.
    Since the hearing, the FAA has continued work toward 
meeting near- and mid-term NextGen deliverables (i.e., 2012 to 
2018). The FAA requested that RTCA, Inc., a private non-profit 
corporation that develops consensus-based recommendations on 
communications, navigation, surveillance, and air traffic 
management system issues, establish a government-industry 
NextGen Mid-Term Implementation Task Force (RTCA Task Force) to 
forge an aviation community consensus on NextGen operational 
improvements to be implemented between now and 2018, maximizing 
NextGen benefits in the near-term, and developing a business 
case for industry investment in NextGen. The RTCA Task Force 
was formed in January 2009 and consisted of approximately 335 
individuals from 141 different organizations. On September 9, 
2009, the RTCA Task Force issued its final report and 
disbanded. The report contained several recommendations 
designed to help the FAA galvanize its plans to deliver near-
term benefits and build a foundation for the mid-term. The 
Subcommittee has continued close oversight of the FAA's 
progress toward NextGen implementation.

                Oversight of Helicopter Medical Services

    On April 22, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony regarding oversight of helicopter medical 
services. The hearing explored two issues: (1) helicopter 
emergency medical services (HEMS) safety, and (2) state 
regulation of HEMS. The HEMS industry has grown dramatically 
over the past three decades, with the greatest expansion in 
recent years. Between 2003 and 2005, the number of helicopter 
air ambulances increased from 545 to 753. In addition, since 
1988, the NTSB has issued many safety recommendations regarding 
HEMS.\1\ Following a string of deadly accidents in 2008, the 
NTSB added four 2006 safety recommendations to its Most Wanted 
List of Transportation Safety Improvements. During the hearing, 
recurring safety deficiencies among HEMS operators were 
discussed in depth, including lack of technology, pilot 
training and fatigue, and flight dispatch procedures.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    \1\ See NTSB Recommendations A-88-1 through A-88-19 (Feb. 29, 
1998); A-06-12 through A-06-15 (Jan. 25, 2006) (Added to the NTSB's 
Most Wanted List of Transportation Safety Improvements for 2009); A-07-
111 and A-07-112 (Dec. 21, 2007).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    In addition to issues of aviation safety, issues were 
discussed relating to the Airline Deregulation Act's preemption 
of state regulation of air carrier rates, routes, and services. 
However, as discussed at the hearing, States have the authority 
to regulate the provision of medical care relating to HEMS. For 
example, many states dictate HEMS requirements for the medical 
training and qualifications of health care professionals 
onboard aircraft.
    The Subcommittee received testimony from a wide range of 
stakeholders and experts, including Representative John 
Salazar, officials at the DOT, FAA, GAO, and NTSB, an accident 
victim's family member, and associations representing 
helicopter and medical groups. As a result of the hearing, the 
Committee included provisions in H.R. 915 to address the safety 
issues that the hearing uncovered and the GAO published a 
report requested by the Subcommittee entitled ``Air Ambulance: 
Effects of Industry Changes on Services Are Unclear''.

     The Economic Viability of the Civil Reserve Air Fleet Program

    On May 13, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to receive 
testimony regarding the Civil Reserve Air Fleet (CRAF) program 
and its economic viability. CRAF is a voluntary program through 
which the nation's passenger and cargo airlines provide stand-
by commitments to support the mobilization of trips and 
equipment in the event of a major military contingency. The 
CRAF program was established in 1951 by President Harry S. 
Truman to augment the Department of Defense (DOD) fleet of 
military transport aircraft during times of high demand for 
airlift services. More than 30 carriers utilizing more than 
1,000 aircraft participate in the CRAF program. It is estimated 
that during a period of national mobilization, CRAF would meet 
approximately 93 percent of DOD's passenger requirements and 
approximately 37 percent of DOD's cargo requirements. The CRAF 
program is extremely cost-effective--with an estimated $30 
billion to $128 billion in cost avoidance to the U.S. 
Government.
    However, the U.S. passenger charter industry has been 
declining. If the charter industry continues to decline, the 
immediate effect would be airlift shortfalls and delays within 
the DOD transportation system. These concerns were heightened 
when ATA Airlines, which provided approximately 10 percent of 
DOD's passenger airlift, declared bankruptcy and abruptly 
ceased operations in 2008, resulting in temporary service 
delays of two to six days.
    The hearing explored the structure of the CRAF program, 
contractual relationships, and incentives to participate in the 
program. In addition, witnesses discussed safety and security 
issues associated with carrier participation in the program, 
such as shoulder-fired missile threats. The Subcommittee heard 
testimony from the Commander of the U.S. Transportation Command 
and multiple air carriers that participate in the program.

 Aviation Consumer Issues: Emergency Contingency Planning and Outlook 
                           for Summer Travel

    On May 20, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to receive 
testimony regarding aviation consumer issues, focusing on 
emergency contingency planning and the outlook for summer 
travel. Due to the economic recession in 2008 and 
unprecedentedly high fuel prices, domestic and international 
airline passenger traffic declined, and airlines' operating 
costs increased. In response, airlines cut capacity, which 
meant reduced flight frequencies and the cessation of some 
service altogether. To increase revenue, airlines raised 
airfares and began to charge fees for ancillary services.
    The hearing explored these service-related issues, 
including the effects for travelers of the global economic 
crisis, and it explored the effects of the pandemic of the 
novel influenza A (H1N1) in spring 2009. The virus spread 
throughout the United States, Mexico, and other foreign 
countries, sparking concerns that a large part of the 
population would be susceptible to contracting the flu and that 
it would spread rapidly, in part through the world's aviation 
system. U.S. and global health authorities recommended that 
travelers delay nonessential travel to Mexico and that ill 
individuals delay air travel, prompting massive cuts in flight 
schedules between the United States and Mexico. Widespread 
concern eventually subsided when the virus did not spread as 
predicted.
    The hearing also explored other issues affecting travelers, 
including airline delays and emergency contingency plans for 
lengthy onboard delays. The Subcommittee heard testimony from 
officials of DOT and the FAA, who discussed plans to help cope 
with airline delays and discussed DOT's role in dealing with 
H1N1. The agency witnesses also discussed their agencies' 
activities to improve passenger protections and to advance 
NextGen to deal with delays. The DOT IG was critical of DOT's 
plan to address delays in the New York City metropolitan area, 
where delays have system-wide ripple effects. In addition, the 
Subcommittee heard testimony from a major airline association, 
Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, a flight attendants 
union, and a passenger rights association.

            Regional Air Carriers and Pilot Workforce Issues

    On June 10, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on regional air carriers and pilot workforce 
issues. The hearing was held in response to the February 12, 
2009, crash of a Colgan Air Bombardier Dash 8-400, operating 
Continental Connection Flight 3407, near Buffalo, New York. The 
NTSB's investigation into the crash identified a number of 
issues relating to regional airlines. As the major airlines 
continue to cut their capacity in response to the economic 
downturn, regional airline operations constitute an 
increasingly significant proportion of total operations. Today, 
regional flights represent one half of the total scheduled 
flights across the country, and regional airlines provide the 
only scheduled airline service to more than 450 communities.
    The NTSB's investigation into the accident focused on a 
number of areas, including: (1) flight crew experience and 
training; (2) remedial training programs for pilots; (3) pilot 
commuting policies and practices; (4) fatigue management; and 
(5) the crew's violations of the Sterile Cockpit Rule, which 
prohibits conversations not related to the safety of flight 
below 10,000 feet, and the impact of these non-pertinent 
conversations on situational awareness. These issues were 
discussed in depth during the hearing. The Subcommittee 
received testimony from officials of the FAA, NTSB, and DOT IG, 
and representatives of pilot and airline associations, safety 
experts, and victims' families.
    In addition, the Subcommittee developed legislation to 
address the issues that the hearing uncovered. On July 29, 
2009, Subcommittee Chairman Jerry F. Costello introduced H.R. 
3371, the ``Airline Safety and Pilot Training Improvement Act 
of 2009''. The bill was later incorporated into FAA 
reauthorization legislation, but was enacted as part of the 
Airline Safety and Federal Aviation Administration Extension 
Act of 2010 (P.L. 111-216). The legislation requires meaningful 
improvements to the safety of U.S. airline operations. The law 
increases pilot training requirements and minimum 
qualifications and provides for improved standards for the 
screening of pilot job candidates and professional development.
    The Subcommittee held two follow-up hearings focusing on 
actions taken by the FAA and the airline industry in response 
to the accident, on September 23, 2009, and February 4, 2010.

        NextGen: Area Navigation/Required Navigation Performance

    On July 29, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on NextGen, focusing on Area Navigation 
(RNAV)/Required Navigation Performance (RNP). In the NAS of 
today, the limitations of current-generation navigational 
technology relegate the utilization of airspace to predefined 
routes where aircraft can reliably transition from one 
navigational signal to the next, which often require aircraft 
to fly inefficient, zigzag-like patterns.
    RNAV and RNP procedures rely on advanced aircraft avionics 
for improved navigational precision. RNAV allows aircraft to 
fly any desired flight path without the limitations imposed by 
ground-based navigation systems. RNP is RNAV with the addition 
of an onboard monitoring and alerting capability for pilots 
that takes advantage of an aircraft's onboard navigation 
capability to adhere precisely to assigned routes and to fly 
more precise, efficient, and even curved paths into and out of 
airports. RNAV and RNP procedures hold enormous potential to 
reduce aircraft fuel burn, noise and carbon emissions, boost 
controller productivity, and increase capacity, as evidenced by 
numerous studies. Both the FAA and industry stakeholders hold 
high expectations for RNAV and RNP procedures to provide near- 
to mid-term benefits.
    Yet, while RNAV/RNP procedures hold significant potential 
for near-term benefits, the FAA faces challenges implementing 
these procedures. New procedures may require more extensive 
environmental reviews, which in some instances could take up to 
eight years and cost $5 million per procedure. Moreover, there 
are often significant technical challenges with integrating 
RNAV/RNP procedures into the existing airspace. Congested 
airspace, as found in nearly all major metropolitan areas, 
involves complex design requirements with stringent development 
criteria to include computer modeling, human factors studies, 
and actual flight and simulator trials.
    At the hearing, the Subcommittee received testimony of FAA 
and DOT officials, industry and labor representatives, and 
others involved in the creation of RNAV and RNP procedures. The 
witnesses testified about the need for RNAV and RNP procedures, 
the benefits promised by their implementation, and the 
challenges that the FAA will encounter in the course of 
implementation.

Hudson River Airspace and Management of Uncontrolled Airspace Corridors

    On September 16, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the Hudson River airspace and management 
of uncontrolled airspace corridors. The hearing was held as 
result of an August 8, 2009 fatal accident over the Hudson 
River between a Piper PA-32R-300 airplane and a Eurocopter 
AS350 BA helicopter operated by Liberty Helicopters. The 
aircraft collided in midair over the Hudson River, near 
Hoboken, New Jersey. The Liberty Helicopter, conducting a 
sightseeing tour, had five passengers aboard. The airplane was 
piloted by a certificated private pilot and had two passengers 
aboard.
    The collision occurred in an area that is known as a class 
B airspace exclusion area, which is a section of uncontrolled 
airspace. Many urban areas, including the New York City-
metropolitan area, have ``exclusion areas'' in which aircraft 
operate without positive control by ATC. In these exclusion 
areas, pilots generally operate under Visual Flight Rules 
(VFR), relying on visual cues to avoid other aircraft (commonly 
referred to as ``see and avoid''). Exclusion areas are 
primarily designed to accommodate access for general aviation 
pilots to transit through or under areas of class B airspace.
    The hearing explored safety concerns regarding airspace, 
such as the Hudson River exclusion area, in which aircraft 
operate under special rules, and with less control from ATC. 
FAA officials testified regarding the findings of the task 
force that the FAA formed in response to the accident, and 
actions that the FAA planned to take in response to the 
accident to improve the safety of the Hudson River-area 
airspace. The NTSB Chairman provided a detailed video 
simulation of what occurred during the accident, and discussed 
the NTSB's preliminary accident investigation findings and 
recommendations. Testimony was also received from general 
aviation and helicopter associations, and an air traffic 
controller with expertise in the New York City metropolitan 
area airspace. Following the hearing, the FAA issued 
regulations to improve the safety airspace operations in the 
Hudson River corridor.

Federal Aviation Administration's Call to Action on Airline Safety and 
                             Pilot Training

    On September 23, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony regarding the FAA's ``Call to Action'' on 
Airline Safety and Pilot Training. The FAA Administrator 
announced the industry-wide Call to Action on June 15, 2009, to 
reduce risk at regional airlines while promoting best practices 
from major airlines and seeking industry voluntary compliance 
with a number of safety initiatives. On June 24, 2009, the FAA 
published an Airline Safety Pilot Training Action Plan with 
several specific short-term and intermediate-term action items 
and sent letters to approximately 100 air carriers and seven 
labor organizations requesting a written commitment to certain 
action items by July 31, 2009. On July 15, 2009, FAA chartered 
an aviation rulemaking committee (ARC) charged with making 
recommendations to the Administrator on proposals to change the 
current pilot flight and duty time rules.
    The focus of the hearing was to determine whether the FAA 
was carrying out its action plan. The hearing also discussed an 
inspection initiative whereby FAA inspectors identify and track 
pilots who demonstrate a repetitive need for additional 
training.
    In addition, witnesses discussed their viewpoints on 
provisions of H.R. 3371, the ``Airline Safety and Pilot 
Training Improvement Act of 2009'', including provisions 
requiring that all airline pilots hold an airline transport 
pilot certificate. The Subcommittee received testimony from the 
FAA Administrator, airline pilot unions, airline associations, 
a family member of a victim of Colgan Flight 3407, and an 
aviation accreditation board for aviation colleges. The FAA 
discussed its efforts to partner with industry and labor 
associations to seek voluntary compliance with many of its 
safety initiatives.

NextGen: A Review of the RTCA Mid-Term Implementation Task Force Report

    On October 28, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on NextGen to review the RTCA Mid-Term 
Implementation Task Force Report. The FAA plan for 
implementation of the NextGen, which will meet anticipated 
traffic demands by 2025, consists of new concepts and 
capabilities for air traffic management and communications, 
navigations, and surveillance. Yet, while NextGen has been 
planned over a long horizon, with a target date of 
implementation by 2025, many stakeholders have come to the 
conclusion that more can and must be done now to address 
inefficiencies and delay in the system by more fully taking 
advantage of existing technologies, procedures, and 
capabilities rather than waiting for deployment of new systems 
and equipping aircraft with new technology.
    In January 2009, FAA requested that RTCA, Inc. establish a 
government-industry NextGen Mid-Term Implementation Task Force 
to forge an aviation community consensus on NextGen operational 
improvements to be implemented between 2009 and 2018, 
maximizing NextGen benefits in the near-term, and developing a 
business case for industry investment. On September 9, 2009, 
the RTCA Task Force issued its final report, which recommended 
a prioritized list of desired operational capabilities (and 
corresponding technologies, procedures, pilot and controller 
training, and policies needed to achieve those capabilities) to 
be fully deployed by 2018. In addition, the RTCA Task Force 
sought to maximize the benefits of existing aircraft equipage.
    At the hearing, the Subcommittee received testimony from 
FAA and DOT officials and industry and labor representatives on 
the RTCA Task Force's recommendations and the path forward to 
implementation. Since the hearing, the FAA has moved forward on 
a number of the RTCA Task Force's recommendations. In early 
2010, FAA reported in its annual NextGen Implementation Plan 
(NGIP) how it would attempt to address the recommendations, as 
well as provided timeframes for those actions. The NGIP will 
provide greater transparency and accountability with regard to 
measuring the FAA's progress meeting NextGen milestones.

                    Commercial Space Transportation

    On December 2, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on commercial space transportation. As the 
number of launches is expected to increase with the development 
of the U.S. commercial space tourism industry and potential use 
of private launch vehicles by the National Aeronautics and 
Space Administration (NASA), it is imperative that the FAA has 
the proper resources to ensure that the new technologies and 
programs safely evolve. The FAA is responsible for safety, 
industry promotion, and licensure of operations for commercial 
space launches and launches sites.
    According to the FAA, in the next two to three years, it is 
likely that the U.S. space shuttle fleet will be retired, 
commercial cargo will be delivered to the International Space 
Station, and commercial human space flight operations will 
begin. If these predictions are true, there are additional 
issues that the United States needs to address and consider 
going forward. One issue is how commercial space flights and 
spaceports will impact air traffic control and the safe and 
effective use of the NAS. Another is ensuring passenger and 
crew safety. As the Federal Government moves toward NextGen, it 
is important to consider all space transportation issues that 
might impact the NAS. Environmental impacts, such as noise and 
greenhouse gas emissions, will also play a role in commercial 
space flight, just as they do at U.S. airports and communities.
    At the hearing, the Subcommittee received testimony from 
the FAA's Associate Administrator for Commercial Space 
Transportation and officials from GAO, an aerospace industry 
association, an aerospace company, and the Wisconsin Aerospace 
Authority. As a result of the hearing, the Subcommittee 
provided oversight of the commercial space transportation 
program and learned of recent developments.

      Reauthorization of the National Transportation Safety Board

    On January 27, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on reauthorization of the NTSB. The NTSB is 
charged with investigating civil aviation accidents and 
significant transportation accidents in the surface modes--
railroad, highway, marine, and pipeline. The NTSB determines 
the probable cause of all civil aviation accidents and 
significant surface transportation accidents, conducts safety 
studies, and evaluates the effectiveness of other government 
agencies' programs for preventing transportation accidents.
    The NTSB's four-year reauthorization request included 
additional funding, additional staff, and statutory changes. 
The request includes funding to offset pay raises, benefit cost 
increases, and inflation. The FY 2011 ($117 million) and FY 
2012 ($120 million) authorization request levels were based on 
increasing the number of NTSB staff to 477 full-time-equivalent 
employees.
    The NTSB's reauthorization proposal requested explicit 
authorization to: investigate incidents; issue subpoenas for 
financial records; obtain medical records under the same 
conditions and protections as would apply to a public health 
authority that receives such information under the Health 
Insurance Portability and Accountability Act; protect trade 
secrets and similar commercial or financial information from 
release under the Freedom of Information Act; enter into multi-
year leasing contracts; expend appropriated funds to conduct an 
accident investigation in a foreign country; and investigate 
``commercial space launch'' accidents.
    The Subcommittee heard testimony from the NTSB Chairman and 
GAO officials. GAO's testimony included a review of NTSB's 
general management structure, capabilities, and challenges 
ahead. The hearing provided important information for NTSB 
reauthorization. On March 2, 2010, Chairman James L. Oberstar 
introduced H.R. 4714, the ``National Transportation Safety 
Board Reauthorization Act of 2010''. On September 28, 2010, the 
House passed H.R. 4714.

    Update: FAA Call to Action on Airline Safety and Pilot Training

    On February 4, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony regarding the FAA's Call to Action on Airline 
Safety and Pilot Training. The hearing was a follow-up to learn 
about the FAA's and industry's progress since the 
Subcommittee's September 23, 2009 hearing. On January 26, 2010, 
the FAA released its final report on the Call to Action 
entitled ``Answering the Call to Action on Airline Safety and 
Pilot Training''. The FAA received responses from 82 percent of 
airlines and all seven labor organizations regarding voluntary 
actions it requested that they take to improve airline safety 
and oversight.
    While some progress was made on several fronts, the 
Subcommittee found that several key safety initiatives related 
to the Call to Action experienced delays or had yet to be 
initiated. The FAA was in the process of completing action on 
publishing updates to pilot flight and duty time rules, 
overhauling crew training requirements, and strengthening 
qualitative pilot training requirements, among other things.
    The FAA Administrator testified at the hearing about the 
actions that the agency was taking to fulfill the Call to 
Action's goals. The DOT IG testified that while the FAA 
initially took swift action on its Call to Action, the FAA made 
limited progress implementing initiatives with the greatest 
potential to improve safety.

                             Aircraft Icing

    On February 24, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on aircraft icing. After the 1994 crash of a 
regional airliner in Roselawn, Indiana, in which 68 people 
died, the NTSB added in-flight icing to its Most Wanted List of 
Transportation Safety Improvements. According to the NTSB, the 
Roselawn crash was caused by in-flight icing conditions and 
subsequent loss of control of the aircraft. In-flight icing can 
occur during winter weather at low altitudes or at high 
altitudes year-round, while ground icing occurs only in cold 
weather.
    According to the FAA, since the Roselawn accident, it has 
reviewed aircraft in-flight icing safety and developed a 
comprehensive aircraft icing program, which includes almost 200 
airworthiness directives to improve designs of over 50 aircraft 
types. Nevertheless, according to the NTSB, ``the pace of the 
FAA's activities in response to all of these recommendations 
remains unacceptably slow, despite some encouraging action in 
2007.'' \2\ According to the GAO, though many efforts have been 
taken to mitigate the effect of icing on aircraft in-flight, 
between 1998 and 2007, there were 523 icing-related aviation 
accidents, which resulted in 221 fatalities, in part 135 
commuter and on-demand operations, as well as part 91 general 
aviation operations.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    \2\ NTSB, Aviation: Reduce Dangers to Aircraft Flying Icing 
Conditions, Most Wanted Transportation Safety Improvements, Nov. 2009.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    At the hearing, the Subcommittee received testimony from 
the FAA's Deputy Associate Administrator for Aviation Safety, 
the Chairman of the NTSB, and the GAO, and representatives of 
pilot and airport associations. As a result of the hearing, the 
Subcommittee provided oversight of the icing rulemaking process 
and other associated programs at the FAA. On June 29, 2010, the 
FAA issued a proposed rulemaking putting forward a significant 
expansion of its icing certification standards, including a new 
requirement that manufacturers show airplanes can operate 
safely in freezing drizzle or freezing rain, conditions that 
constitute an icing environment known as ``supercooled large 
drops''.

            FAA's Oversight of On-Demand Aircraft Operators

    On March 17, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the FAA's oversight of on-demand aircraft 
operators. On-demand aircraft operators represent a segment of 
the aviation industry that operates aircraft on a for-hire, on-
demand basis. On-demand flights are unscheduled and operate at 
customers' request. Examples of on-demand aircraft operations 
include air tours and sightseeing flights, air medical flights, 
flights for passengers' business or personal travel, cargo 
flights, crop-dusting/agricultural operations, helicopter 
firefighting and electronic-news gathering flights, and 
helicopter flights to offshore oil rigs.
    According to the DOT IG, between 1999 and 2009, there were 
155 fatal on-demand accidents. In 2008, the NTSB found that 
there were 56 on-demand accidents involving 66 fatalities. At 
the hearing, the DOT IG testified on his 2009 report, which 
raised concerns with FAA oversight of on-demand operators. The 
DOT IG's audit found that, between 2000 and 2008, the fatal 
accident rate for part 135 on-demand operators was 50 times 
greater than the accident rate for scheduled air carriers. The 
DOT IG found that the smallest aircraft operated under part 135 
have the highest accident rate: between 2003 and 2008, 78 
percent of all fatal accidents in the on-demand sector involved 
aircraft seating nine or fewer passengers. The DOT IG testified 
that the comparatively high accident rate for on-demand flights 
were likely due to the following factors: (1) Flights are 
operated in higher-risk environments than scheduled commercial 
operations, (2) operators do not have to meet many of the 
regulatory requirements that large, commercial carriers must 
follow, and (3) the FAA's oversight strategy for on-demand 
operations is deficient.
    FAA officials testified regarding the FAA's efforts to 
improve on-demand safety through rulemaking, voluntary industry 
initiatives, and inspection programs. Business aviation and 
helicopter associations and the Air Charter Safety Foundation 
testified on industry efforts to improve the safety of the on-
demand industry, including involvement in the FAA's rulemaking 
committee. The industry associations voiced concern over some 
aspects of the DOT IG's report.

        NextGen: Long-Term Planning and Interagency Cooperation

    On April 21, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on NextGen long-term planning and interagency 
cooperation. The hearing focused on aspects of the FAA's 
efforts to implement the NextGen over a long planning horizon 
that extends to 2025. In Vision 100, Congress created the JPDO 
within the FAA and tasked it to plan for and coordinate 
implementation of NextGen. To achieve that goal, the JPDO must 
leverage the expertise and resources of DOT, DOD, the 
Department of Commerce, the Department of Homeland Security, 
NASA, and the White House Office of Science and Technology 
Policy for the purpose of completely transforming the NAS by 
the year 2025.
    In developing NextGen, the JPDO must work cross-
departmentally within the government and with the industry to 
define the NextGen vision. According to the FAA, the JPDO is 
responsible for monitoring cross agency budgets, facilitating 
cross-agency collaborations and longer-term planning. However, 
stakeholders have expressed concerns over the organizational 
structure of the FAA vis-a-vis the development and 
implementation of NextGen. Industry stakeholders testified that 
the JPDO's placement within the FAA and its dual reporting to 
both the FAA Administrator and the FAA's Air Traffic 
Organization's (ATO) Chief Operation Officer (COO) hindered its 
ability to interact on equal footing with ATO and other Federal 
agencies. In addition, industry stakeholders expressed concerns 
that the dual reporting structure would subordinate the JPDO's 
long-term planning mission to the COO's day-to-day operational 
priorities. Therefore, the GAO recommended that the JPDO have 
some independence from the ATO and that the JPDO Director 
report directly to the FAA Administrator.
    At the hearing, the Subcommittee received testimony from 
the NASA Administrator, JPDO Director, and officials of GAO, 
the DOT IG, DOD, and a private-sector stakeholder of NextGen 
implementation. As a result of the hearing, the Subcommittee 
has continued to conduct close oversight of progress toward 
NextGen implementation.

The Proposed United-Continental Merger: Potential Effects for Consumers 
                            and the Industry

    On June 16, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the then-pending merger of United Airlines 
and Continental Airlines, which will create the world's largest 
airline in terms of revenue and available seat miles. The 
merger was ultimately consummated by a stock-swap transaction 
that the airlines valued at approximately $8 billion. United 
shareholders hold 55 percent of the equity in the combined 
entity; Continental shareholders own 45 percent. Chicago-based 
United and Houston-based Continental operate largely 
complementary route networks, although their networks overlap 
on 15 routes among major U.S. cities.
    The merger announcement came approximately two years after 
Delta and Northwest announced a merger to create what was then 
the world's largest airline. At the time of the announcement, 
United, Continental, and their Star Alliance partners were 
already allied in a close code-sharing relationship that 
permitted them to cooperate on pricing and schedules with 
immunity from enforcement of antitrust law. Some expressed 
concerns that the United-Continental merger would further re-
order a fragile industry and would continue the erosion of 
competition in the U.S. airline industry that began with the 
Delta-Northwest merger.
    The hearing explored the merger's potential effects for 
consumers, employees, and competing carriers. The chief 
executives of both companies testified that the merger is 
necessary for long-term viability. Labor leaders expressed 
concern that the merger must not occur at employees' expense, 
and industry analysts expressed opposing views on the effects 
of large-scale mergers for consumers and the industry. Since 
the hearing, Continental agreed to divest a number of slots at 
Newark Liberty International Airport to Southwest Airlines and 
the Department of Justice announced in August that it would not 
seek injunctive relief to block the merger. The transaction 
proceeded to legal closing on October 1, 2010, and the carriers 
subsequently have begun moving toward full integration of their 
operations within the next two to three years. As a result of 
the hearing, the Subcommittee continued its oversight of 
transactions between airlines that have important consequences 
for the future of airline competition.

                              Airline Fees

    On July 14, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on airline fees. Starting in mid 2007, in 
response to economic challenges, many airlines began to 
unbundle services by instituting separate fees for checked 
baggage. Airlines next introduced ``a la carte'' fees for 
passenger services, some of which traditionally have been 
considered as included in the cost of a ticket. By the end of 
2009, airlines charged for numerous ancillary services, 
including seat selection, extra leg room, beverages, meals, and 
more. According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, 
U.S. airlines collected a total of $7.8 billion in ancillary 
fees in 2009, including $2.7 billion in baggage fees alone. In 
the fourth quarter of 2009, U.S. airlines collected 18.3 
percent more in ancillary revenue than in the fourth quarter of 
2008. Collectively, U.S. passenger airlines incurred $5.5 
billion in operating losses in 2008, but reported operating 
profits of approximately $1.2 billion in 2009.
    The proliferation of ancillary fees over a relatively short 
period of time has raised concerns over the costs and 
transparency of such fees. Often, consumers are not entirely 
aware of the range of fees that they may encounter in the 
ticket booking process, at check-in, and at the gate. A recent 
poll conducted by Consumer Reports of consumers on what 
``annoys travelers the most'', luggage charges and added fees 
rated the highest, at 8.4 and 8.1, respectively, based on a 10-
point scale.
    The hearing covered a number of issues pertaining to the 
trend of unbundling airfares to require passengers to pay for 
particular services individually; including legal requirements 
for disclosure of fares, taxes, and fees, options for 
passengers to recover the costs of some fees; and revenue 
potentially available to the Airport and Airway Trust Fund if 
certain ancillary fees were subject to the Federal tax on 
airline tickets. The Subcommittee heard testimony from GAO, 
which testified on the nature, scope, and disclosure of 
ancillary fees. Members of Congress expressed concern that 
ancillary fees are not adequately disclosed to passengers prior 
to booking. DOT testified on a proposed rulemaking that may 
address this issue. In addition, Spirit Airlines, Southwest 
Airlines, consumer associations, and a global ticket 
distribution system company testified.

                  The Pilot Flight and Duty Time Rule

    On September 16, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the need for a new pilot flight and duty 
time rule. The hearing explored the history of regulation of 
pilot flight and duty time, the work of the ARC convened by the 
FAA to address the issue of pilot fatigue, and the future of 
the FAA's rulemaking activities on the matter.
    The ARC, which began its work in July 2009, consisted of 
representatives from the FAA, industry, and labor organizations 
and was charged with producing recommendations for a science-
based approach to fatigue management by September 1, 2009. The 
ARC met its deadline and provided the FAA with a broad 
framework for drafting the basis for a Notice of Proposed 
Rulemaking (NPRM). On September 14, 2010, the FAA issued the 
NPRM.
    On August 1, 2010, President Obama signed into law the 
Airline Safety and Federal Aviation Administration Extension 
Act of 2010, which requires the FAA, within one year of the 
date of enactment of the Act, to update and implement new pilot 
flight and duty time rules to more adequately track scientific 
research in the field of fatigue. The law directs the FAA to 
require air carriers, within 90 days of the date of enactment 
of the Act, to create fatigue risk management systems approved 
by FAA to proactively mitigate pilot fatigue. The law also 
requires the FAA to contract with the National Academy of 
Science to study the impact of pilot commuting on fatigue and 
provide preliminary results to the FAA to be considered as part 
of the flight and duty time rulemaking.
    At the hearing, the Subcommittee received testimony from 
the FAA's Associate Administrator for Aviation Safety, a human 
fatigue scientist, and representatives of pilot and airline 
associations. The Subcommittee continues to strongly urge the 
FAA to produce the strongest final flight and duty time rule 
possible to decrease pilot fatigue.

  

                       Summary of Activities for

                  the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and

                        Maritime Transportation

    During the 111th Congress, the Subcommittee on Coast Guard 
and Maritime Transportation, chaired by Representative Elijah 
E. Cummings, with Representative Frank A. LoBiondo serving as 
Ranking Member, held 20 hearings (78 witnesses and 
approximately 39 hours of testimony) covering the breadth of 
issues within the jurisdiction of the Subcommittee.
    The Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure 
developed major legislation, H.R. 3619, the Coast Guard 
Authorization Act of 2010'', to reauthorize the Coast Guard and 
make significant improvements in its operations. H.R. 3619 
passed the House of Representatives on October 23, 2009, and 
the Senate passed the bill on May 7, 2010, with an amendment. 
No formal conference was convened. On September 30, 2010, the 
House agreed to Senate amendments to the House amendment to the 
Senate amendment, clearing the agreed-upon legislation for the 
President's signature. H.R. 3619 became Public Law 111-281 on 
October 15, 2010. The legislation was the first Coast Guard 
authorization bill to become law since 2006.
    The Committee also developed H.R. 3360, the ``Cruise Vessel 
Security and Safety Act of 2010''. H.R. 3360 responded to the 
issues of crime and safety of passengers aboard cruise ships 
that carry at least 250 passengers and call at United States 
ports, except as part of a coastwise voyage. These vessels 
operate largely outside of the jurisdiction of the United 
States. H.R. 3360 became Public Law 111-207 on July 27, 2010.
    The following bills and resolutions were enacted in the 
111th Congress:
           Public Law 111-281, the Coast Guard 
        Authorization Act of 2010,
           Public Law 111-207, the Cruise Vessel 
        Security and Safety Act of 2010,
           Public Law 111-330, to make technical 
        corrections to provisions of law enacted by the Coast 
        Guard Authorization Act of 2010,
           H. Con. Res. 289, directing the Clerk of the 
        House of Representatives to make a technical correction 
        in the enrollment of H.R. 3360,
           H. Res. 197, to commend the American Sail 
        Training Association for its advancement of character 
        building under sail and for its advancement of 
        international goodwill,
           H. Res. 410, recognizing the numerous 
        contributions of the recreational boating community and 
        the boating industry to the continuing prosperity and 
        affluence of the United States,
           H. Res. 891, expressing the gratitude of the 
        House of Representatives for the service to our Nation 
        of the Coast Guard and Marine Corps aircraft pilots and 
        crewmembers lost off the coast of California on October 
        29, 2009, and for other purposes, and
           H. Res. 1062, recognizing the Coast Guard 
        Group Astoria's more than 60 years of service to the 
        Pacific Northwest, and for other purposes.
    Other bills and resolutions that passed the House include:
           H.R. 5503, the ``Securing Protections for 
        the Injured from Limitations on Liability Act'',
           H.R. 5481, to give subpoena power to the 
        National Commission on the BP Deepwater Horizon Oil 
        Spill and Offshore Drilling,
           H.R. 6016, the ``Audit the BP Fund Act of 
        2010'',
           H.R. 2651, the ``Maritime Workforce 
        Development Act'',
           H.R. 1747, the ``Great Lakes Icebreaker 
        Replacement Act'', and
           H. Con. Res. 258, congratulating the 
        Commandant of the Coast Guard and the Superintendent of 
        the Coast Guard Academy and its staff for 100 years of 
        operation of the Coast Guard Academy in New London, 
        Connecticut, and for other purposes.

                      Public Laws and Resolutions 


                 Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2010


                           Public Law 111-281


                              (H.R. 3619)


    (See also H.R. 1665, H.R. 2650, H.R. 2652, H.R. 3318, H.R. 3376)


                            October 15, 2010

    The Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2010 (P.L. 111-281) is 
the authorizing legislation for the Coast Guard. The 
legislation is based on H.R. 2830, the ``Coast Guard 
Authorization Act of 2007'', which passed in the House during 
the 110th Congress on April 24, 2008. Public Law 111-281 also 
incorporates several bills related to the Coast Guard and 
maritime transportation. Public Law 111-281 is the first Coast 
Guard authorization act to be enacted into law since 2006.
    The law authorizes annual appropriations for the service 
and an increase in its military end strength. Public Law 111-
281 also includes other provisions that address: Coast Guard 
personnel and management; shipping and navigation; acquisition 
reform; leadership structure within Coast Guard; marine safety; 
oil spill prevention; port security; and the use of toxic hull 
coatings on certain vessels.
    Title I authorizes $10.2 billion in FY 2011 for the Coast 
Guard and increases the service's authorized end-strength of 
military personnel by 1,500 members to 47,000.
    Title II makes changes to the management of the Coast 
Guard's officer corps and provides for Coast Guard families.
    The law establishes the number and distribution of 
commissioned Coast Guard officers and sets compulsory 
retirement ages for flag and regular commissioned officers, and 
authorizes Coast Guard veterans' access to the Armed Forces 
Retirement Home system. Title II also provides the Coast Guard 
with the flexibility to retain and promote officers that have 
specialized skills to meet the needs of the Coast Guard. The 
law also authorizes two Presidential awards the Coast Guard 
Cross and the Silver Star medal for extraordinary heroism and 
gallantry, respectively.
    The law provides for Coast Guard personnel and their 
families by: (1) Authorizing reimbursement to Coast Guard 
personnel stationed at remote locations for reasonable expenses 
related to travel for medical reasons; (2) facilitating the 
acquisition of family housing for military personnel; (3) 
authorizing the use of appropriated funds to provide child 
development services with fees for the services to be based 
upon family income; and (4) authorizing the Secretary to 
provide support services for chaplain-led programs that assist 
active duty and reserve personnel and their families to 
maintain strong families. This law also permits active duty 
Coast Guard personnel assigned to support operations associated 
with major disasters or spills of national significance to 
retain leave in excess of normal limitations. In addition, the 
position of District Ombudsman is created in each Coast Guard 
district to serve as a liaison between the Coast Guard and the 
maritime community.
    Title III makes changes to certain laws that apply to 
shipping and navigation. The law: (1) creates a civil penalty 
for simple possession of controlled substances on vessels 
subject to the jurisdiction of the United States; (2) requires 
a plan to deliver merchant mariners' documents by mail; (3) 
phases out, after December 31, 2017, the deployment of foreign-
flag vessels engaged in certain operations on the outer 
continental shelf in the Beaufort and Chukchi Seas off Alaska; 
and (4) includes measures to help ensure safe and secure 
shipping in the Arctic.
    Title III ensures safe and secure maritime shipping in the 
Arctic by encouraging the Secretary to enter into negotiations 
through the International Maritime Organization to promote 
coordinated action between the United States, Russia, Canada, 
Iceland, Norway, and Denmark to ensure: (1) maintenance of aids 
to navigation; (2) marine safety and salvage capability; (3) 
oil spill prevention and response capability; (4) maritime 
domain awareness; and (5) search and rescue capability. The law 
also requires the Secretary to promote safe navigation through 
icebreaking where necessary.
    Title IV responds directly to the issues related to the 
Coast Guard's acquisition programs. This title is based upon, 
H.R. 1665, the ``Coast Guard Acquisition Reform Act of 2009'', 
which passed the House on July 29, 2009.
    Specifically, this title makes improvements in Coast Guard 
acquisition management by: (1) requiring the Commandant of the 
Coast Guard to select a Chief Acquisition Officer who meets 
prescribed training and experience standards; (2) creating an 
Acquisition Directorate within the Coast Guard with a defined 
mission and a workforce dedicated to performing acquisition 
functions; and (3) establishing experience standards for 
acquisition personnel. The law also prohibits the use of 
private sector lead systems integrators after the date of 
enactment, except to complete certain specific acquisitions.
    Title IV also defines levels of acquisitions based upon 
life-cycle costs and prescribes a process for large 
acquisitions through which the Coast Guard must: (1) Clearly 
define operational requirements of projects and programs; (2) 
analyze alternatives; (3) develop project or program baselines; 
(4) produce life-cycle cost estimates; and (5) assess the 
merits of alternatives. The analysis of alternatives is to be 
prepared by a Federally-funded research and development center. 
The law also requires reports to Congress when cost overruns 
and delays in excess of prescribed levels occur.
    Title V modernizes the Coast Guard by reorganizing the 
Coast Guard's senior leadership, as proposed by the Coast 
Guard. This title authorizes no more than four vice admiral 
positions to perform duties prescribed by the Commandant.
    The law requires the Secretary to ensure appropriate career 
paths and minimum qualifications for prevention and response 
personnel who wish to develop expertise in prevention and 
response, and authorizes the Commandant of the Coast Guard to 
establish centers of expertise for prevention and response.
    The law requires the Coast Guard to develop a long-term 
strategy for improving marine safety with the following 
priorities and goals: (1) reducing the number and rates of 
marine casualties; (2) improving the consistency and 
effectiveness of enforcement and compliance programs; (3) 
targeting high-risk vessels for enforcement efforts; and (4) 
improving research.
    Title V also requires that any individual, excluding the 
Commandant, who adjudicates an appeal or waiver of a decision 
related to marine safety must be a qualified specialist who is 
able to effectively judge the facts. In addition, the 
Commandant must ensure that the Coast Guard Academy will 
provide courses in mariner safety.
    Title VI enhances marine safety through a variety of 
provisions. The law enhances fishing vessel safety by: (1) 
permitting owners of certain fishing vessels to rebuild or 
replace their vessels and maintain the vessels' permits or 
licenses to fish; (2) establishing safety equipment and vessel 
construction standards; and (3) requiring fishing vessels of 
certain sizes and those fishing vessels that undergo 
substantial changes to comply with load line regulations and 
comply with classification society rules and standards for 
construction and equipment. Compliance with these requirements 
will be certified by a classification society. The law further 
enhances fishing vessel safety by establishing safety standards 
with respect to equipment and operations including: (1) 
survival craft that ensure no part of an individual is immersed 
in the water; (2) carriage of marine radios, nautical charts 
and publications, and sufficient medical supplies; and (3) 
requiring individuals in charge of fishing vessels to pass a 
training program approved by the Secretary. Individuals in 
charge of fishing vessels must also maintain records of safety 
equipment maintenance and safety drills.
    The law enhances marine safety in other areas by: (1) 
requiring certain vessels to maintain official logbooks and to 
log the service hours of seamen, their injuries, and their 
illnesses; (2) requiring ``safety management systems'' on 
certain passenger vessels; (3) authorizing the Coast Guard to 
terminate the operation of vessels for ``unsafe operation''; 
(4) permitting seamen who suffer discrimination because they 
report safety violations to use the same Department of Labor 
complaint process that is currently available to workers in the 
other transportation modes; (5) authorizing the Coast Guard to 
establish standards for required marine safety equipment based 
on performance, best available technology, and operational 
practicality; and (6) requiring the Secretary to prescribe 
regulations for the installation of life preservers and other 
lifesaving appliances for uninspected vessels.
    This title also: (1) removes the tonnage limit on offshore 
supply vessels and prescribes manning levels and watch 
schedules aboard offshore supply vessels; (2) reauthorizes 
several advisory committees related to marine safety; and (3) 
authorizes the Secretary to delegate authority to review and 
approve plans and to conduct inspections and examinations to 
the American Bureau of Shipping or another classification 
society recognized by the Secretary with respect to offshore 
facilities.
    Title VII reduces the risk of oil spills during transfers 
of oil between vessels. The law: (1) requires the Secretary to 
conduct a study to identify the types of human errors that lead 
to oil spills, with particular attention to fatigue; (2) 
extends liability for oil spills to the owners of cargo shipped 
on single-hulled vessels; and (3) amends the Oil Pollution Act 
of 1990 to extend to tank vessels of 100 gross tons or more the 
requirement to show financial responsibility for oil spills.
    Title VIII contains a number of provisions that enhance the 
security of the nation's waterways, ports, and marine cargoes.
    This title: (1) establishes the America's Waterway Watch 
Program to promote voluntary reporting of activities that may 
indicate a threat or an act of terrorism; (2) requires the 
Coast Guard to enforce the security zones imposed around tank 
vessels containing especially hazardous cargos; (3) permits 
engagement of State and local law enforcement to provide 
waterside security at terminals handling especially hazardous 
cargoes; (4) mandates that the Secretary make a recommendation 
regarding the suitability of a waterway to accommodate the 
marine traffic associated with a waterside liquefied natural 
gas facility to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, after 
considering recommendations by States; (5) authorizes the Coast 
Guard to assist foreign port facility operators to meet 
international port security standards; (6) requires the 
Secretary to develop and utilize a national standard and 
formula for prioritizing and addressing security risks at 
United States ports; (7) requires development of a program for 
the mobile biometric identification of suspect individuals 
including terrorists; and (8) prescribes training standards for 
the certification of port facility security officers.
    This title also requires the Secretary, in conjunction with 
the appropriate Federal agencies, to develop a national 
strategy for the waterside security of vessels and facilities 
handling especially hazardous cargoes.
    To ensure that the Coast Guard is able to carry out the 
Service's other homeland security responsibilities, the law 
authorizes additional Coast Guard maritime forces and security 
teams. The legislation requires no fewer than two teams of 
deployable specialized forces capable of combating terrorism, 
engaging in interdiction, law enforcement, and advanced 
tactical maritime security operations. The law also requires 
the Secretary to increase the number of canine teams capable of 
detecting narcotics and explosives by no fewer than 10 annually 
through fiscal year 2012.
    Title VIII also contains several provisions related to 
security and maritime workers. The law requires: (1) that 
seamen, pilots, and representatives of seamen's' welfare and 
labor organizations not be charged fees individually for 
expenses related to access through port facilities and shore 
leave; (2) coordination between the Secretary and owners and 
operators of port facilities to allow workers who have applied 
for, but have not yet received, a transportation workers' 
security card to be escorted into secure or restricted areas of 
a port facility; (3) the Secretary to make timely responses to 
individuals who apply for a transportation security card; (4) 
the establishment of procedures for maritime workers to be 
fingerprinted, as part of an application for a transportation 
security card, at any of no fewer than 20 facilities operated 
by or under contract to the Department of Homeland Security; 
and (5) development of a plan to permit maritime workers to 
receive their transportation security cards at facilities or 
aboard vessels. The law also authorizes the Secretary to use a 
secondary means to verify the identities of individual applying 
for a transportation security card.
    Title IX includes several miscellaneous provisions. The 
provisions include: (1) waivers of the requirements for 
coastwise endorsements for certain vessels, subject to specific 
conditions; (2) changes to the penalties payable by operators 
of certain cruise ships for nonpayment of seamen's wages in 
class action suits; (3) an extension of the current deadline 
for compliance with U.S.-citizen manning requirements for 
operators of vessels in the U.S. distant water tuna fishing 
fleet to December 31, 2012; (4) a provision to limit the 
jurisdiction of States to tax certain seamen; (5) authorization 
to convey certain Coast Guard property to certain local 
governments; (6) authorization for the States of Texas and 
Oklahoma to license operators of uninspected passenger vessels 
operating on Lake Texoma; and (7) limitation of the liability 
for monetary damages of individuals who use or authorize the 
use of force to defend a vessel of the United States against 
piracy.
    The law also strengthens criminal penalties for failing to 
heave to, obstructing Coast Guard boardings, and providing 
false information to the Coast Guard when the offense involves 
``aggravating factors''. Aggravating factors include: death, an 
attempt to kill, kidnapping or an attempt to kidnap, aggravated 
sexual abuse, serious bodily injury, and transportation of 
individuals under inhumane conditions.
    Title X includes the text of H.R. 3618, the ``Clean Hull 
Act of 2009'', which passed the House on November 17, 2009. 
This title aligns U.S. law with the International Convention on 
the Control of Harmful Anti-Fouling Systems on Ships, 2001 by 
prohibiting the sale, distribution, or manufacture of organotin 
or antifouling systems containing organotin. Organotin is a 
chemical used to inhibit the growth of marine organisms on the 
hulls of vessels and certain marine structures.
    Title X also prohibits vessels, regardless of when the 
anti-fouling system was applied, from using an anti-fouling 
system containing organotin, establishes penalties for 
violation, and establishes the Secretary of the department in 
which the Coast Guard is operating and the Administrator of the 
Environmental Protection Agency as administrators and enforcers 
of this new law.

             Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act of 2010


                           Public Law 111-207


                              (H.R. 3360)


                             July 27, 2010

    This law imposes new security and safety requirements on 
cruise ships that carry at least 250 passengers and call on a 
port in the United States except as part of a coastwise voyage.
    Public Law 111-207 contains a number of provisions that 
will enhance the safety and security of passengers on board 
cruise vessels.
    This law requires that, beginning 18 months after the date 
of enactment of the Act, each vessel to which the section 
applies must comply with specific design and construction 
standards. The vessels must have rails located not less than 42 
inches above the cabin deck, and must have passenger staterooms 
and crew cabins equipped with peep holes or other means for 
visual identification. To the extent that it is available, the 
vessels must integrate technology that can detect when 
passengers have fallen overboard. The vessel must also be 
equipped with operable acoustic hailing or warning devices to 
provide communication capability around the entire vessel when 
it is operating in high risk waters, as defined by the Coast 
Guard. Beginning on the date of enactment of the Act (July 27, 
2010), any vessel the keel of which is laid after that date 
must equip passenger staterooms and cabins with security 
latches and time-sensitive key technologies.
    To help combat crime aboard cruise vessels, this law also 
requires that the owner of a vessel maintain a video 
surveillance system to assist in documenting crimes on the 
vessel and to provide evidence for the prosecution of such 
crimes. In addition, the law requires owners of vessels to 
employ physicians meeting certain professional qualifications 
and to maintain on the vessel adequate, in-date supplies of 
anti-retroviral medications and other medications designed to 
prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases after 
a sexual assault, as well as equipment and materials for 
performing medical examinations in sexual assault cases. The 
law also requires the owner of a vessel to record in a log 
book, either electronically or otherwise, reports on specified 
complaints.
    In addition, the law requires the owner of a vessel or the 
owner's designee to contact the nearest Federal Bureau of 
Investigation (FBI) Field Office or Legal Attache by telephone 
as soon as possible after the occurrence on board the vessel of 
an incident involving homicide, suspicious death, a missing 
U.S. national, kidnapping, assault with serious bodily injury, 
any offense to which 18 (U.S.C.) Sec. Sec.  2241, 2242, 2243, 
or 2244(a), or (c) applies, firing or tampering with the 
vessel, or theft of money or property in excess of $10,000 to 
report the incident.
    The Secretary of Transportation is required to maintain a 
statistical compilation of certain incidents on an Internet 
site that provides a numerical accounting of the missing 
persons and alleged crimes recorded in each report that are no 
longer under investigation. The data shall be updated no less 
frequently than quarterly and aggregated by cruise line (and 
each cruise line shall be identified by name), and by whether 
the crime was committed by a passenger or a crew member. Each 
cruise line taking on or discharging passengers in the United 
States shall include a link on its Internet website to the 
website maintained by the Secretary of Transportation.

To Make Technical Corrections to Provisions of Law Enacted by the Coast 
                    Guard Authorization Act of 2010


                           Public Law 111-330


                              (H.R. 6516)


                           December 22, 2010

    The law makes technical corrections to the Coast Guard 
Authorization Act of 2010 (P.L. 111-281).

Directing the Clerk of the House of Representatives To Make a Technical 
               Correction in the Enrollment of H.R. 3360


                           (H. Con. Res. 289)


                             July 12, 2010

    H. Con. Res. 289 directs the Clerk of the House of 
Representatives to make a technical correction in the 
enrollment of H.R. 3360, the Cruise Vessel Security and Safety 
Act of 2010 (P.L. 111-207).

 To Commend the American Sail Training Association for Its Advancement 
      of Character Building Under Sail and for Its Advancement of 
                         International Goodwill


                             (H. Res. 197)


                             April 14, 2010

    H. Res. 197 commends the American Sail Training Association 
(ASTA) for its work to advance character building under sail 
and for its advancement of international good will, and 
commends ASTA for its advancement of character building 
experiences for youth at sea in traditionally rigged sailing 
vessels and its advancement of the finest traditions of the 
sea.
    H. Res. 197 also commends ASTA as the national sail 
training association of the United States, representing the 
sail training community of the United States in the 
international forum.

  Recognizing the Numerous Contributions of the Recreational Boating 
  Community and the Boating Industry to the Continuing Prosperity and 
                     Affluence of the United States


                             (H. Res. 410)


                              June 9, 2009

    H. Res. 410 recognizes the contributions of the 
recreational boating industry and the boating community to the 
United States. This resolution also acknowledges that the 59 
million individuals who boat generate more than $33 billion for 
the U.S. economy, and provide jobs for 337,000 Americans. This 
resolution recognizes that the 1,400 active boat builders in 
the United States use materials and services from all 50 
states. Recreational boating activities provide opportunities 
for families to be together, and have a beneficial effect on 
scholastic performance and physical fitness of those who 
participate. Finally, H. Res. 410 urges the President to issue 
a proclamation declaring July 1, 2009, as National Boating Day.

   Expressing the Gratitude of the House of Representatives for the 
  Service to Our Nation of the Coast Guard and Marine Corps Aircraft 
Pilots and Crewmembers Lost Off the Coast of California on October 29, 
                      2009, and for Other Purposes


                             (H. Res. 891)


                           November 17, 2009

    H. Res. 891 expresses the gratitude of the House of 
Representatives for the service to our nation of the Coast 
Guard and Marine Corps aircraft pilots and crewmembers lost off 
the coast of California on October 29, 2009.
    H. Res. 891 recognizes the crew members of the Coast Guard 
C-130 that are missing and presumed to have lost their lives in 
the line of duty: Lt. Cmdr. Che J. Barnes; Lt. Adam W. Bryant; 
Chief Petty Officer John F. Seidman; Petty Officer 2nd Class 
Carl P. Grigonis; Petty Officer 2nd Class Monica L. Beacham; 
Petty Officer 2nd Class Jason S. Moletzsky; and Petty Officer 
3rd Class Danny R. Kreder II.
    H. Res. 891 also recognizes the crew members of the Marine 
Corps helicopter that are missing and presumed to have lost 
their lives in the line of duty: Maj. Samuel Leigh and 1st Lt. 
Thomas Claiborne.

   Recognizing the Coast Guard Group Astoria's More Than 60 Years of 
        Service to the Pacific Northwest, and for Other Purposes


                             (H. Res. 1062)


                             April 15, 2010

    H. Res. 1062 recognizes the Coast Guard Group Astoria's 
more than 60 years of service to the Pacific Northwest, and 
honors the brave men and women of Coast Guard Group Astoria who 
risk their lives daily to ensure the safety and security of the 
people of the Pacific Northwest.
    H. Res. 1062 directs the Clerk of the House of 
Representatives to make available enrolled copies of this 
resolution to Coast Guard Group Astoria for appropriate 
display.

                           Other Legislation 


 Securing Protections for the Injured From Limitations On Liability Act


                              (H.R. 5503)


                    Passed the House on July 1, 2010

    The Death on the High Seas Act permits a decedent's spouse, 
parent, child, or dependent relative (the decedent's personal 
representative under current law) to bring a civil action in 
admiralty against the person or vessel responsible for the 
decedent's death when the death was caused by wrongful act, 
neglect, or default occurring on the high seas beyond 12 
nautical miles (three nautical miles under current law) from 
the shore of the United States.
    H.R. 5503 expands the types of damages that may be 
recovered to include nonpecuniary losses plus a fair 
compensation for the decedent's pain and suffering. In 
addition, H.R. 5503 allows substitution of the decedent's 
spouse, parent, child, or dependent relative (personal 
representative under current law) as a plaintiff in an action 
for personal injury caused by wrongful act, neglect, or default 
under the Act, if the plaintiff dies during the action as a 
result of the wrongful act.
    Furthermore, H.R. 5503 amends the Jones Act to allow 
recovery for nonpecuniary damages for loss of the care, 
comfort, and companionship of a seaman who died in the course 
of employment and repeals specified general limitations on 
liability (the Limitation of Liability Act) for personal injury 
or death on seagoing vessels.
    H.R. 5503 amends the Federal judicial code with respect to 
class actions (the Class Action Fairness Act of 2005) to 
exclude from its coverage any action brought by a State or a 
State subdivision on behalf of its citizens. In addition, H.R. 
5503 declares void and unenforceable any agreement, promise, or 
directive to restrict the dissemination of information (except 
by a government agency to protect public health or safety) 
regarding the cause, nature, or extent of, or damage caused by, 
or efforts to remediate any discharge into waters off the U.S. 
shore of a substance that contaminates a marine or coastal 
environment or endangers public health.
    H.R. 5503 amends the bankruptcy code to prohibit a trustee 
in bankruptcy from selling or leasing, except in the ordinary 
course of business, any property of the estate of a debtor that 
is liable for a claim arising from an incident under the Oil 
Pollution Act of 1990, to a purchaser (together with any 
affiliate) in an aggregate dollar amount exceeding a specified 
amount under the Clayton Act unless: (1) the purchaser (and 
affiliate) agree as a condition of the sale to pay the amount 
of allowed unsecured claims arising from the incident not paid 
by the debtor; or (2) all classes of unsecured claims approve 
the sale of such assets.

 To Give Subpoena Power to the National Commission on the BP Deepwater 
                Horizon Oil Spill and Offshore Drilling


                              (H.R. 5481)


                   Passed the House on June 23, 2010

    H.R. 5481 authorizes the National Commission on the BP 
Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill and Offshore Drilling to issue 
subpoenas to compel the attendance and testimony of witnesses 
and the production of books, records, correspondence, 
memoranda, and other documents.
    H.R. 5481 requires the Commission, before issuing such a 
subpoena, to notify the Attorney General (or a designee) of the 
Commission's intent to issue a subpoena, the identity of the 
witness, and the nature of the testimony sought.
    H.R. 5481 prohibits the Commission from issuing a subpoena 
if the Attorney General objects on the basis that the taking of 
the testimony is likely to interfere with any: (1) Federal or 
State criminal investigation or prosecution; or (2) pending 
investigation under the Civil False Claims Act or other Federal 
statute providing for civil remedies, or any civil litigation 
to which the United States or any of its agencies is or is 
likely to be a party.
    H.R. 5481 requires the Commission, in the case of contumacy 
of any person issued a subpoena or refusal by such person to 
comply with the subpoena, to request the Attorney General to 
seek enforcement of the subpoena in any U.S. district court for 
a district in which a person issued a subpoena under the Act 
resides, is served, or may be found, or where the subpoena is 
returnable. In addition, H.R. 5481 deems failure to obey an 
order requiring the subpoenaed person to appear at any 
designated place to testify or produce documentary or other 
evidence to be contempt of court.

                     Audit the BP Fund Act of 2010


                              (H.R. 6016)


                 Passed the House on September 28, 2010

    H.R. 6016 directs the Comptroller General of the U.S. 
Government Accountability Office (GAO) to conduct an 
independent investigation and audit of the operations of the 
fund and claims process created by BP to compensate persons 
affected by the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of 
Mexico. The bill authorizes GAO to use its subpoena power to 
ensure that the victims of the oil spill are provided with 
compensation in a timely manner, the claim amounts are 
determined accurately, and the operations process occurs 
effectively. Finally, H.R. 6016 requires the Comptroller 
General to report its findings to Congress every 90 days until 
the operations of the Fund are completed, in approximately 
three years.

               Maritime Workforce Development Act of 2009


                              (H.R. 2651)


                  Passed the House on October 14, 2009

    H.R. 2651 amends title 46, United States Code, to direct 
the Secretary of Transportation to establish a maritime career 
recruitment, training, and loan program.
    The costs of obtaining a Master's or Mate's license can be 
as much as $26,000, with specialized training and 
certifications, due to the training requirements mandated by 
the 1995 Amendments to the Convention on the Standards of 
Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping. Employers in the 
maritime industry have traditionally provided little or no 
funding to help employees cover the costs of training, and 
there is growing concern within the maritime industry that the 
cost and complexity of meeting 1995 Amendment requirements for 
license renewals and/or upgrades is reducing the pool of 
potential seafarers.
    Importantly, maritime training programs are unique, and are 
unlike typical two- or four-year educational programs. Due to 
the short course length and the frequency of enrollment in new 
courses, the costs of these programs are not easily served by 
existing student loan programs.
    Using the model of existing student loan programs, H.R. 
2651 creates a maritime-focused student loan program through 
which individuals can receive up to $60,000 in loans over the 
course of a lifetime. H.R. 2651 also authorizes the 
appropriation of $10 million in each of FYs 2010 through FY 
2015 to support loans.
    Additionally, H.R. 2651 authorizes the appropriation of $10 
million in each of FYs 2010 through FY 2015 to enable the 
Secretary to award grants to maritime training institutions to 
support their efforts to develop and implement programs to 
address mariner recruitment, training, and retention issues.

                 Great Lakes Icebreaker Replacement Act


                              (H.R. 1747)


                   Passed the House on April 27, 2009

    H.R. 1747 authorizes $153 million for the design and 
construction of a new icebreaker for service on the Great 
Lakes. The existing icebreakers are either nearing the end of 
their useful lives or experiencing difficulty in heavy ice 
conditions.

Congratulating the Commandant of the Coast Guard and the Superintendent 
of The Coast Guard Academy and Its Staff for 100 Years of Operation of 
   the Coast Guard Academy in New London, Connecticut, and for Other 
                                Purposes


                           (H. Con. Res. 258)


                   Passed the House on July 27, 2010

    H. Con. Res. 258 congratulates the Commandant of the Coast 
Guard and the Superintendent of the Coast Guard Academy and its 
staff for 100 years of operation of the Coast Guard Academy in 
New London, Connecticut. For 100 years, the Coast Guard has 
trained and shaped the leadership of the Coast Guard through 
extensive training in character, loyalty, physical fitness, 
leadership, and education.

                                Hearings

    During the 111th Congress, the Subcommittee on Coast Guard 
and Maritime Transportation held 20 hearings.

                 International Piracy on the High Seas

    On February 4, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the causes and extent of piracy and to 
understand its effect on international shipping. The hearing 
focused on piracy off the coast of Somalia.
    The expansion of international piracy particularly in the 
Horn of Africa region threatens to increase the cost of 
transporting goods through the region at a time when portions 
of the world economy are in serious recession.
    Several industry witnesses testified that the Gulf of Aden 
continues to pose a navigational challenge because of the 
absence of a permanent national government in Somalia. 
Witnesses also discussed the issue of protection for U.S.-
flagged vessels and whether it was the responsibility of 
government or private industry to provide protection.

               Coast Guard Drug and Migrant Interdiction

    On March 11, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony regarding the U.S. Coast Guard's drug and 
migrant interdiction operations. The hearing examined drug 
interdiction trends and the capacity of the Coast Guard to 
interdict drug shipments. In addition, the hearing examined 
trends in illegal migration from the Caribbean and Asia. Coast 
Guard witnesses testified regarding the challenges to the 
service's interdiction mission including the ingenuity of 
traffickers and the limited resources available to police 
forces in countries around the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of 
Mexico.

       Overview of Coast Guard Acquisition Policies and Programs

    On March 24, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
examine the Coast Guard's acquisition programs, as well as the 
policies and procedures the service was implementing to 
strengthen its management of the entire acquisition process. 
The hearing was one of several Subcommittee hearings on the 
subject of the Coast Guard's acquisition programs conducted 
during the past two Congresses, and was conducted under the 
oversight requirements of clauses 2(n), (o), and (p) of Rule XI 
of the Rules of the House of Representatives.
    The Subcommittee heard testimony from the Coast Guard's 
Assistant Commandant for Acquisition and the Government 
Accountability Office's (GAO) Director of Acquisition and 
Sourcing Management.
    The Coast Guard testified that it had begun a comprehensive 
acquisition reform effort. The reforms were necessary to avoid 
repeating the problems that the service encountered in the 
Integrated Deepwater System (Deepwater) program and to ensure 
proper oversight and management of each acquisition project. 
The Coast Guard emphasized several on-going improvements 
including better communication among headquarters offices, 
consolidation of project offices, the clarification of the 
roles of key players, and changes in policies and processes. 
The service's efforts at reform were being aided through 
consultation with the Defense Acquisition University and 
others.
    GAO testified that, over the two years prior to the 
hearing, the Coast Guard had repositioned itself to assume 
responsibilities associated with systems integration and 
program management functions that were formerly carried out by 
private contractors. GAO also testified that the Coast Guard 
still faced challenges and the outcome of Deepwater 
acquisitions remained uncertain. GAO stated that the failure of 
not implementing a disciplined acquisition approach and the 
reliance upon a contractor to define the Coast Guard's 
requirements had resulted in certain assets being paid for and 
delivered without the Coast Guard having determined whether the 
assets would meet mission needs.

   Civil Rights Services and Diversity Initiatives in the Coast Guard

    On April 1, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony regarding civil rights services and diversity 
initiatives within the Coast Guard. In addition, the 
Subcommittee received testimony regarding the findings of a 
review of the Coast Guard's Office of Civil Rights entitled 
``United States Coast Guard Office of Civil Rights: Program 
Review'' conducted by Booz Allen Hamilton and at the request of 
the office's director. The report assessed the extent to which 
the structure, policies, procedures, and personnel of the 
Office of Civil Rights (OCR) are meeting the Coast Guard's 
equal opportunity missions, and whether it performs in 
accordance with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission 
regulations. The report also provides an independent 
examination of the office climate in the OCR, the management of 
confidential information, and the effectiveness of office 
personnel. The report provided 53 recommendations for 
improvement.
    During the hearing, the Subcommittee also examined the 
effectiveness of the Office of Civil Rights' service to 
minority members of the Coast Guard and the implementation of 
civil rights initiatives at the Coast Guard Academy. This 
hearing was the first of several hearings that the Subcommittee 
held in the 111th Congress to examine the issue of diversity 
within the Coast Guard.

     Fiscal Year 2010 Budget Requests of the Coast Guard, Maritime 
             Administration and Federal Maritime Commission

    On May 13, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to receive 
testimony on the President's Fiscal Year 2010 Budget request 
for the Coast Guard, Maritime Administration, and Federal 
Maritime Commission.
    The Subcommittee received testimony from the Commandant of 
the Coast Guard and the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast 
Guard, the Associate Administrator for Budget and Programs and 
Chief Financial Officer of the United States Maritime 
Administration, and the Commissioners of the Federal Maritime 
Commission.

           Piracy Against U.S. Flag Vessels: Lessons Learned

    On May 20, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to receive 
testimony regarding recent acts of piracy against U.S.-flagged 
vessels and the lessons to be learned from these attacks. This 
hearing was conducted in the wake of the pirate attacks upon 
the MV Maersk Alabama and the MV Liberty Sun in the Indian 
Ocean off Somalia.
    Witnesses testified that proper planning was crucial to 
defending against pirate attacks. The Subcommittee heard 
several recommendations from witnesses including maintaining 
best speed through the area and embarked armed security guards. 
Witnesses also testified regarding the effect of pirate attacks 
and the carriage of armed security guards on insurance rates.

                Control of Anti-Fouling Systems on Ships

    On June 10, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony regarding the control of anti-fouling systems 
on ocean-going vessels. The hearing examined anti-fouling 
systems that have been applied to ships in the past and 
discussed the contamination that some of these systems have 
released into the marine environment. Anti-fouling systems are 
applied to the hulls of ships and marine structures to prevent 
organisms from attaching and growing.
    The Subcommittee examined the potential effects of the 
International Convention on the Control of Harmful Anti-fouling 
Systems on Ships, 2001. The Convention provides a comprehensive 
regulatory framework to enable governments to assess the safety 
of new anti-fouling systems before the new systems are approved 
for use.
    An Environmental Protection Agency official testified in 
support of implementation of the Convention. This hearing 
provided the basis for legislation implementing the Convention, 
which was included in the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2010 
(Public Law 111-281). See also, H.R. 3618, the ``Clean Hull Act 
of 2009''.

A Continuing Examination of Civil Rights Services and Diversity in the 
                              Coast Guard

    On June 19, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony regarding its on-going examination of the 
Coast Guard's Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Equal 
Opportunity (EO) programs as well as of the service's efforts 
to expand diversity, particularly at the Coast Guard Academy.
    The Subcommittee continued its examination of the status of 
the Coast Guard's Office of Civil Rights' implementation of the 
recommendations included in the report entitled ``United States 
Coast Guard Office of Civil Rights: Program Review'' by Booz 
Allen Hamilton. The Director of the Office of Civil Rights 
testified that the Office had implemented 29 of the 53 
recommendations provided in the report.

            National Maritime Center and Mariner Credentials

    On July 9, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to receive 
testimony regarding the National Maritime Center (NMC) and 
merchant mariner credentials (MMCs). The testimony focused on 
the difficulties that mariners experienced with obtaining 
required merchant mariners' licenses and documents. The Coast 
Guard had issued new guidelines to govern the review of medical 
information provided by a mariner as part of the application 
for an initial, renewal, or upgrade of a credential. The Coast 
Guard had also consolidated the variety of individual mariner 
licenses and endorsements that it previously issued into a new 
MMC, resembling a passport. Witnesses described substantial 
delays in receiving MMCs because of backlogs caused by a system 
unable to efficiently process thousands of applicants.

        A Review of the Coast Guard's Search and Rescue Mission

    On September 30, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
review the Coast Guard's search and rescue (SAR) programs as 
well as lessons learned from recent SAR cases. The Subcommittee 
examined challenges the Coast Guard faces in carrying out its 
search and rescue mission, particularly in light of its 
expanded homeland security responsibilities. The hearing 
examined in detail two fishing vessel casualties in which the 
Coast Guard failed to respond in sufficient time to prevent 
fatalities.

 Qualifications and Credentialing of Mariners: A Continuing Examination

    On October 7, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony regarding the NMC and MMCs. This hearing was 
a follow-up to a hearing held by the Subcommittee on the same 
topic on July 9, 2009. The July hearing focused on substantial 
delays in mariners receiving documents necessary to perform the 
responsibilities of the mariner. At the October hearing, 
witnesses from the Coast Guard testified that the backlog of 
applications had been significantly reduced.

                       Maritime Domain Awareness

    On December 9, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony regarding the Coast Guard's ability to 
identify and respond to threats in the maritime domain--
particularly potential threats from small vessels. The maritime 
domain is defined as ``all areas and things of, on, under, 
relating to, adjacent to, or bordering on a sea, ocean or other 
navigable waterway, including all maritime related activities, 
infrastructure, people, cargo, and vessels and other 
conveyances.'' The hearing also examined the use of automated 
tracking systems. The hearing explored the efficacy of 
increased use of onboard tracking systems. Boating industry 
witnesses testified in opposition to proposals to require small 
boats to be equipped with automatic tracking systems.

 Fiscal Year 2011 Budget for the Coast Guard, Maritime Administration, 
                  and the Federal Maritime Commission

    On February 25, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony regarding the President's Fiscal Year 2011 
Budget request for the U.S. Coast Guard, Maritime 
Administration, and the Federal Maritime Commission. Testimony 
was received from the agencies and GAO.

       A Review of Coast Guard Acquisition Programs and Policies

    On March 11, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
examine the Coast Guard's acquisition programs, and the 
policies and procedures that the service was implementing to 
strengthen its management of the acquisition process. The Coast 
Guard's Assistant Commandant for Acquisition updated the 
Subcommittee on the progress on strengthening the acquisitions 
process and the status of current acquisitions. He also 
testified that the problems encountered with the Integrated 
Deepwater System (Deepwater) program acquisitions were being 
addressed. The Deepwater program has been the subject of 
extensive oversight by the Subcommittee over the past two 
Congresses, including the hearing on March 24, 2009.

    Capacity of Vessels To Meet U.S. Import and Export Requirements

    On March 17, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony regarding the capacity of ocean-going vessels 
to meet U.S. import and export demands. On March 11, 2010, the 
President signed an Executive Order creating a National Export 
Initiative that calls for a doubling of U.S. exports over the 
next five years. Reports suggested that the ability of the 
United States to expand its exports was threatened by a lack of 
vessel capacity and shortages of shipping containers in certain 
regions of the country. Such shortages could have a significant 
adverse impact on meeting U.S. export goals.

 Status of Coast Guard Civil Rights Programs and Diversity Initiatives

    On April 27, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
continue its examination of the Coast Guard's Equal Employment 
Opportunity (EEO) and Equal Opportunity (EO) programs as well 
as of the service's efforts to expand diversity, particularly 
at the Coast Guard Academy. This was the third and final 
hearing on the issue in the 111th Congress.
    The Coast Guard witness from the service's Civil Rights 
Directorate testified that 52 of the 53 recommendations 
provided in the report entitled ``United States Coast Guard 
Office of Civil Rights: Program Review'', conducted by Booz 
Allen Hamilton, had been implemented. However, the GAO witness 
testified that the implementation of the diversity 
recommendations was challenged by a lack of internal controls 
and measurable performance goals.

     Foreign Vessel Operations in the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone

    On June 17, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony regarding the extent of commercial activity 
conducted by foreign vessels engaged in the exclusive economic 
zone (EEZ) of the United States. The Subcommittee also examined 
the overlapping jurisdictions of flag states and coastal states 
over foreign-flagged vessels and offshore facilities operating 
in the EEZ.
    The Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico 
exposed many uncertainties associated with offshore operations 
in the EEZ. This hearing allowed the Subcommittee to have a 
better understanding of what steps might be necessary to 
protect the interests of the United States.

 Update on Federal Maritime Commission's Examination of Vessel Capacity

    On June 30, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony from the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) 
regarding the FMC's examination of the capacity of ocean-going 
vessels to meet U.S. import and export demands. This hearing 
was a follow-up to the hearing conducted on March 17, 2010. At 
the March hearing, the FMC announced that it was initiating a 
non-adjudicatory fact-finding to investigate current carrier 
capacity and ocean carrier business practices under service 
contracts, and the extent of container shortages in the United 
States. At the June hearing, the witness from the FMC testified 
that FMC's fact-finding found that shortages in vessel capacity 
and shipping containers were regional, with a concentration in 
the Midwest.

        Status of the U.S.-Flagged Vessels in U.S. Foreign Trade

    On July 20, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony regarding the status of the U.S.-flagged 
fleet in foreign commerce. The hearing explored the conditions 
under which operators of U.S.-flagged ships must compete, their 
challenges, and ideas for developing maritime policies that 
will enhance their competitiveness.
    The Administrator of the Maritime Administration testified 
concerning its role in promoting a strong merchant marine. The 
Subcommittee also heard testimony from labor and shipping 
company representatives regarding the vital importance of 
programs designed to sustain the U.S-flagged merchant fleet. 
These programs include cargo preference laws and the Maritime 
Security Program.

 Continuing Examination of U.S.-Flagged Vessels in U.S.- Foreign Trade

    On September 29, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony from the Maritime Administration (MARAD) 
regarding the U.S.-flagged merchant fleet in foreign trade. 
This hearing was a follow-up to a hearing convened by the 
Subcommittee on the same topic on July 20, 2010. At the July 
hearing, representatives of the U.S.-flagged maritime industry 
and seafaring labor raised issues with respect to the 
challenges they face operating under the U.S. flag. This 
hearing continued the Subcommittee's examination of the status 
of the U.S.-flagged merchant marine and the role of the 
Maritime Administration in promoting a strong U.S. merchant 
marine.

  

                       Summary of Activities for

               the Subcommittee on Economic Development,

               Public Buildings, and Emergency Management

    During the 111th Congress, the Subcommittee on Economic 
Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management, 
chaired by Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton, with Representative 
Mario Diaz-Balart serving as Ranking Member, held 34 
Subcommittee hearings (188 witnesses and approximately 94 
hours) and three Members' roundtables, covering the breadth of 
issues within the jurisdiction of the Subcommittee.
    The Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure 
developed several bills to improve the provision of Federal 
disaster assistance through Federal Emergency Management Agency 
(FEMA). H.R. 1746, the ``Predisaster Hazard Mitigation Act of 
2010'', reauthorizes the Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) program 
for three years at the following levels: $180 million in fiscal 
year 2011 and $200 million per year in each of fiscal years 
2012 and 2013. The bill also increases the minimum amount that 
each state can receive under the program from $500,000 to 
$575,000, and prohibits the provision of assistance under the 
PDM program through congressionally-directed spending. On 
December 28, 2010, H.R. 1746 was presented to the President for 
signature.
    The Committee also developed major legislation, H.R. 3377, 
the ``Disaster Response, Recovery, and Mitigation Enhancement 
Act of 2009'', which amends the Robert T. Stafford Disaster 
Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (Stafford Act) to improve 
the assistance that the Federal Government provides to States, 
local governments, and communities before, during, and after 
major disasters and emergencies. This legislation authorizes, 
and makes changes to improve, major FEMA programs, including: 
the Disaster Relief Fund (DRF), Pre-Disaster Mitigation, 
National Urban Search and Rescue (US`R), the Integrated Public 
Alert and Warning System (IPAWS), and the Emergency Management 
Assistance Compact (EMAC). Among its major provisions, H.R. 
3377 also: makes available health benefits for temporary FEMA 
employees; provides additional assistance under the Hazard 
Mitigation Grant Program for States that actively enforce an 
approved building code; allows FEMA to provide assistance for 
up to 18 months in the form of mortgage or rental payments to 
individuals and families who are at imminent risk of eviction 
from a residence in the wake of a disaster; requires FEMA to 
sell, transfer, or donate trailers or other excess temporary 
housing units in suitable condition and complete disposal of 
any units not in suitable condition within two years; requires 
FEMA to consider the recommendations of the National Commission 
on Children and Disasters and the National Council on 
Disability in the drafting and updating of certain plans, 
strategies, policies, and regulations; clarifies the role of 
the Federal Coordinating Officer appointed after a major 
disaster or emergency in short- and long-term recovery; 
requires FEMA to expedite the processing of appeals, by 
requiring FEMA to act in 60 days rather than 90 days; and 
requires FEMA to develop special procedures for the provision 
of major disaster assistance under the Stafford Act in the 
event of extensive and widespread damage and destruction to 
expedite the repair, restoration, reconstruction, or 
replacement of eligible public facilities.
    The Committee also developed major legislation, H.R. 1174, 
the ``FEMA Independence Act of 2009'', to re-establish FEMA as 
an independent, cabinet-level agency reporting directly to the 
President and restore FEMA's ability to be a nimble and 
effective response agency as it was prior when the agency was 
subsumed into the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
    The Committee also developed major legislation, H.R. 5897, 
the ``Economic Revitalization and Innovation Act of 2010'', to 
reauthorize the Economic Development Administration (EDA). H.R. 
5897 provides $500 million annually for EDA investments for 
each of fiscal years 2011 through 2015, for a total 
authorization of $2.5 billion. Specifically, the bill 
authorizes: $2.225 billion for economic development 
investments, including public works and economic adjustment 
grants; $180 million for planning grants to Economic 
Development Districts (EDDs); and $50 million for university 
centers in States (including D.C.) without such centers. The 
bill requires that recipients of EDA assistance establish job 
creation goals as a condition of receipt of EDA assistance, and 
penalizes recipients for failure to satisfy job creation goals. 
In addition, the bill: expands support for business incubators 
and science and research parks through $500 million in loan 
guarantees and additional construction funding; fosters high-
speed rail economic development and sustainable economic 
development; promotes ``on-shoring'' of jobs to the United 
States by establishing new programs to allow or provide 
preference for EDA investment assistance to projects that 
locate or relocate technology and manufacturing companies to 
the United States; provides flexibility in economic development 
funding of projects, including directing funds to communities 
affected by Defense Base Closure and Realignment (BRAC) and 
those communities with declining tax revenues; and creates a 
clear, defined role for EDDs and promotes regional planning.
    Finally, the Committee adopted Committee resolutions 
authorizing General Services Administration (GSA) projects to 
control courthouse construction costs through the imposition of 
limits on the number of courtrooms and on the assignment of 
space to the Judiciary. To date, the Committee's actions to 
limit the number of courtrooms in courthouses across the 
country (in San Diego, California; Savannah, Georgia; 
Greenbelt, Maryland; Mobile, Alabama; San Antonio, Texas; and 
Salt Lake City, Utah) has resulted in savings in excess of $97 
million, based on both capital costs and lease cost avoidance.
    The following bills and resolutions were enacted in the 
111th Congress:
           Public Law 111-__, the Predisaster Hazard 
        Mitigation Act of 2010,
           Public Law 111-308, the Federal Buildings 
        Personnel Training Act of 2010,
           Public Law 111-11, Title XV, the Smithsonian 
        Institution Facilities Authorization,
           Public Law 111-76, to authorize the 
        Administrator of General Services to convey a parcel of 
        real property in Galveston, Texas, to the Galveston 
        Historical Foundation,
           Public Law 111-__, to direct the 
        Administrator of General Services to convey a parcel of 
        real property in Houston, Texas, to the Military Museum 
        of Texas, and for other purposes,
           Public Law 111-11, Title III, Subtitle D, 
        section 3307, Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture 
        to Convey to the City of Bountiful, Utah, Certain 
        Federal Land,
           Public Law 111-14, to designate the United 
        States courthouse under construction at 327 South 
        Church Street, Rockford, Illinois, as the ``Stanley J. 
        Roszkowski United States Courthouse,''
           Public Law 111-34, to designate the Federal 
        building and United States courthouse located at 306 
        East Main Street in Elizabeth City, North Carolina, as 
        the ``J. Herbert W. Small Federal Building and United 
        States Courthouse,''
           Public Law 111-35, to designate the Federal 
        building located at 799 United Nations Plaza in New 
        York, New York, as the ``Ronald H. Brown United States 
        Mission to the United Nations Building'',
           Public Law 111-74, to designate the 
        federally occupied building located at McKinley Avenue 
        and Third Street, SW., Canton, Ohio, as the ``Ralph 
        Regula Federal Building and United States Courthouse'',
           Public Law 111-75, to designate the United 
        States courthouse located at 525 Magoffin Avenue in El 
        Paso, Texas, as the ``Albert Armendariz, Sr., United 
        States Courthouse'',
           Public Law 111-77, to designate the Federal 
        building located at 844 North Rush Street in Chicago, 
        Illinois, as the ``William O. Lipinski Federal 
        Building'',
           Public Law 111-78, to designate the United 
        States courthouse located at 301 Simonton Street in Key 
        West, Florida, as the ``Sidney M. Aronovitz United 
        States Courthouse'',
           Public Law 111-176, to designate the United 
        States Department of the Interior Building in 
        Washington, District of Columbia, as the ``Stewart Lee 
        Udall Department of the Interior Building'',
           Public Law 111-234, to designate the annex 
        building under construction for the Elbert P. Tuttle 
        United States Court of Appeals Building in Atlanta, 
        Georgia, as the ``John C. Godbold Federal Building'',
           Public Law 111-243, to designate the 
        federally occupied building located at 1220 Echelon 
        Parkway in Jackson, Mississippi, as the ``James Chaney, 
        Andrew Goodman, Michael Schwerner, and Roy K. Moore 
        Federal Building'',
           Public Law 111-297, to designate the Federal 
        building located at 100 North Palafox Street in 
        Pensacola, Florida, as the ``Winston E. Arnow Federal 
        Building'',
           Public Law 111-298, to designate the Federal 
        building and United States courthouse located at 515 
        9th Street in Rapid City, South Dakota, as the ``Andrew 
        W. Bogue Federal Building and United States 
        Courthouse'',
           Public Law 111-299, to designate the 
        building occupied by the Government Printing Office 
        located at 31451 East United Avenue in Pueblo, 
        Colorado, as the ``Frank Evans Government Printing 
        Office Building'',
           Public Law 111-301, to designate the Federal 
        building located at 6401 Security Boulevard in 
        Baltimore, Maryland, commonly known as the Social 
        Security Administration Operations Building, as the 
        ``Robert M. Ball Federal Building'',
           H. Con. Res. 37, authorizing the use of the 
        Capitol Grounds for the Greater Washington Soap Box 
        Derby,
           H. Con. Res. 38, authorizing the use of the 
        Capitol Grounds for the National Peace Officers' 
        Memorial Service,
           H. Con. Res. 39, authorizing the use of the 
        Capitol Grounds for the District of Columbia Special 
        Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run,
           H. Con. Res. 171, authorizing the use of the 
        Capitol Grounds for an event to honor military 
        personnel who have died in service to the United States 
        and to acknowledge the sacrifice of the families of 
        those individuals as part of the National Weekend of 
        Remembrance,
           H. Con. Res. 247, authorizing the use of the 
        Capitol Grounds for the Greater Washington Soap Box 
        Derby,
           H. Con. Res. 263, authorizing the use of the 
        Capitol Grounds for the District of Columbia Special 
        Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run,
           H. Con. Res. 264, authorizing the use of the 
        Capitol Grounds for the National Peace Officers' 
        Memorial Service,
           H. Res. 415, commending the heroic efforts 
        of the people fighting the floods in North Dakota and 
        Minnesota,
           H. Res. 765, expressing condolences to the 
        families of the individuals killed during unusual 
        storms and floods in the State of Georgia between 
        September 18 and 21, 2009, and expressing gratitude to 
        all of the emergency personnel who continue to work 
        with unyielding determination to meet the needs of 
        Georgia's residents,
           H. Res. 1059, honoring the heroism of the 
        seven United States Agency for International 
        Development, Office of U.S. Foreign Disaster 
        Assistance, and Federal Emergency Management Agency 
        supported urban search and rescue teams deployed to 
        Haiti from New York City, New York, Fairfax County, 
        Virginia, Los Angeles County, California, the City of 
        Miami, Florida, Miami-Dade County, Florida, and 
        Virginia Beach, Virginia, and commending their 
        dedication and assistance in the aftermath of the 
        January 12, 2010, Haitian earthquake,
           H. Res. 1337, expressing the sympathy and 
        condolences of the House of Representatives to those 
        people affected by the flooding in Tennessee, Kentucky, 
        and Mississippi in May 2010,
           H. Res. 1583, observing the fifth 
        anniversary of the date on which Hurricane Rita 
        devastated the coasts of Louisiana and Texas, and for 
        other purposes,
           63 General Services Administration Capital 
        Investment and Leasing Program Resolutions, and
           3 General Services Administration Building 
        Project Survey Resolutions.
    Other bills that passed the House include:
           H.R. 3791, ``Fire Grants Reauthorization Act 
        of 2009''
           H.R. 5825, the ``Multi-State Disaster Relief 
        Act'',
           H.R. 5266, the ``National Commission on 
        Children and Disasters Reauthorization Act of 2010'',
           H.R. 1700, the ``National Women's History 
        Museum Act of 2009'',
           H.R. 2843, the ``Architect of the Capitol 
        Appointment Act of 2010'',
           H.R. 3224, to authorize the Board of Regents 
        of the Smithsonian Institution to plan, design, and 
        construct a vehicle maintenance building at the vehicle 
        maintenance branch of the Smithsonian Institution 
        located in Suitland, Maryland, and for other purposes,
           H.R. 5717, the ``Smithsonian Conservation 
        Biology Institute Enhancement Act'',
           H.R. 842, to designate the United States 
        courthouse to be constructed in Jackson, Mississippi, 
        as the ``R. Jess Brown United States Courthouse'',
           H.R. 869, to designate the Federal building 
        and United States courthouse located at 101 Barr Street 
        in Lexington, Kentucky, as the ``Scott Reed Federal 
        Building and United States Courthouse'',
           H.R. 887, to designate the United States 
        courthouse located at 131 East 4th Street in Davenport, 
        Iowa, as the ``James A. Leach United States 
        Courthouse'',
           H.R. 2423, to designate the Federal building 
        and United States courthouse located at 1300 Victoria 
        Street in Laredo, Texas, as the ``George P. Kazen 
        Federal Building and United States Courthouse'',
           H.R. 3193, to designate the United States 
        courthouse under construction at 101 South United 
        States Route 1 in Fort Pierce, Florida, as the ``Alto 
        Lee Adams, Sr., United States Courthouse'',
           H.R. 3305, to designate the Federal building 
        and United States courthouse located at 224 South 
        Boulder Avenue in Tulsa, Oklahoma, as the ``H. Dale 
        Cook Federal Building and United States Courthouse'', 
        and
           H. Con. Res. 136, authorizing the use of the 
        Capitol Grounds for a celebration of Citizenship Day.

                      Public Laws and Resolutions


               Predisaster Hazard Mitigation Act of 2010


                           Public Law 111-__


                              (H.R. 1746)


                              January 2011

    This law reauthorizes the Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) 
program for three years at the following levels: $180 million 
in fiscal year 2011 and $200 million per year in each of fiscal 
years 2012 and 2013. The law also increases the minimum amount 
that each state receives under the program from $500,000 to 
$575,000, and prohibits the provision of assistance under the 
PDM program through congressionally-directed spending.

            Federal Buildings Personnel Training Act of 2010


                           Public Law 111-308


                               (S. 3250)


                           December 14, 2010

    The Federal Buildings Personnel Training Act of 2010 (P.L. 
111-308) authorizes the Administrator of General Services, in 
consultation with others, to establish core competencies 
relating to buildings operation and maintenance, energy 
management, sustainability, building performance, and other 
matters for Federal personnel and contract employees performing 
buildings operations functions in Federal buildings. The law 
establishes core competencies for Federal employees and 
contract personnel working in certain building operations and 
maintenance disciplines to ensure that Federal buildings 
perform and are maintained in accordance with industry best 
practices. The law will ensure that Federal buildings and 
components are maximally productive and properly maintained to 
achieve the highest possible return on investment over the 
infrastructure's projected operating life.

      Smithsonian Institution Facilities Authorization Act of 2009


                           Public Law 111-11


                               (Title XV)


                               (H.R. 608)


                             March 30, 2009

    This law authorizes the Board of Regents of the Smithsonian 
Institution to design and construct laboratory space to 
accommodate the Mathias Laboratory at the Smithsonian 
Environmental Research Center in Edgewater, Maryland; to 
construct laboratory space to accommodate the terrestrial 
research program of the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute 
in Gamboa, Panama; and to construct a greenhouse facility at 
its museum support facility in Suitland, Maryland.

 To Authorize the Administrator of General Services To Convey a Parcel 
   of Real Property in Galveston, Texas, to the Galveston Historical 
                               Foundation


                           Public Law 111-76


                              (H.R. 2121)


                            October 19, 2009

    This law authorizes the Administrator of General Services, 
no later than 90 days after the date of enactment of the Act, 
to convey, by quitclaim deed, a parcel of real property located 
at 502 20th Street in Galveston, Texas, to the Galveston 
Historical Foundation, subject to certain requirements. All 
proceeds derived from the sale of the parcel of real property 
located at 502 20th Street in Galveston, Texas, is required to 
be deposited in the Federal Building Fund.
    The parcel of real property located at 502 20th Street is 
the 1861 U.S. Custom House. It is one of the oldest buildings 
in Galveston, Texas, and was added to the National Register of 
Historic Places in 1970. The Galveston Historical Foundation 
was incorporated in 1954, and has since cultivated its work to 
cover community redevelopment, public education, historic 
preservation advocacy, maritime preservation, and stewardship 
of historic properties on Galveston Island. To date, the 
Galveston Historical Foundation has more than 2,000 members and 
has twice been awarded the National Trust for Historic 
Preservation's Honor Award.
    In 1998, the General Services Administration and the 
Galveston Historical Foundation entered into a long-term lease 
agreement with respect to the 1861 U.S. Custom House. In 
exchange for the Galveston Historical Society rehabilitating 
the historical building, it was granted a long-term lease. This 
law allows the Galveston Historical Society to purchase the 
building outright.

  Directs the Administrator of General Services To Convey a Parcel of 
    Real Property in Houston, Texas, to the Military Museum of Texas


                           Public Law 111-__


                              (H.R. 6510)


                              January 2011

    This law directs the Administrator of General Services to 
sell a 3.6-acre parcel of land improved with a 20,000 square 
foot light-industrial building to the current tenant, the 
Military Museum of Texas, for the fair value of the property in 
its current use. The Military Museum of Texas is a non-profit 
501(c)(3) organization founded in 1992, with an all-volunteer 
staff. The Museum has been operating on the property since 
2004, paying a nominal rent. The legislation further directs 
the General Services Administration to convey the property with 
a restrictive covenant requiring that the property's current 
use continue for a period of 30 years, and in the event that 
the Military Museum seeks to abrogate this use, it is then 
required to seek prior permission of the Administrator and pay 
to the United States the value of the property in its highest 
and best use.

   Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture To Convey to the City of 
                 Bountiful, Utah, Certain Federal Land


                           Public Law 111-11


                 (Title III, Subtitle D, section 3307)


                               (H.R. 604)


                             March 30, 2009

    This law authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to 
exchange certain Federal land identified as Shooting Range 
Special Use Permit Area on the map, entitled ``Bountiful City 
Land Consolidation Act'', dated October 15, 2007, if the city 
of Bountiful, Utah conveys three parcels of land consisting of 
a total of approximately 1,680 acres to the Secretary of 
Agriculture.

  To Designate the United States Courthouse Under Construction at 327 
South Church Street, Rockford, Illinois, as the ``Stanley J. Roszkowski 
                       United States Courthouse''


                           Public Law 111-14


                                (S. 520)


                             April 23, 2009

    This law designates the United States courthouse under 
construction at 327 South Church Street, Rockford, Illinois, as 
the ``Stanley J. Roszkowski United States Courthouse''.
    Stanley Roszkowski was born on January 22, 1923, and was 
raised in Royalton, Illinois. He was one of 15 children. He 
served a decorated tour in World War II as a nose gunner on a 
B26 bomber. After his discharge from the United States Air 
Force, he enrolled at the University of Illinois where he 
received his Bachelor of Science degree in 1949 and his Juris 
Doctor in 1954. He then opened up a successful law practice in 
Rockford.
    Stanley Roszkowski was appointed judge for the United 
States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois on 
October 11, 1977. He took senior status on January 9, 1991, and 
retired in January 1998 after serving for more than 20 years.
    Judge Roszkowski was instrumental in having the courthouse 
constructed in Rockford, Illinois.

To Designate the Federal Building and United States Courthouse Located 
at 306 East Main Street in Elizabeth City, North Carolina, as the ``J. 
    Herbert W. Small Federal Building and United States Courthouse''


                           Public Law 111-34


                               (H.R. 813)


                             June 30, 2009

    This law designates the Federal building and United States 
courthouse located in Elizabeth City, North Carolina as the 
``J. Herbert W. Small Federal Building and United States 
Courthouse''.
    J. Herbert W. Small is a life-long resident of Elizabeth 
City, North Carolina. He is a graduate of the University of 
Virginia Engineering School, and the University of North 
Carolina Law School at Chapel Hill. He began the practice of 
law in 1949 and continued in his chosen field for over five 
decades. During his professional career he was a member of the 
First Judicial District Bar Association, the American Bar 
Association, and the North Carolina Bar Association.
    He began his public career as Special Counsel to the 
Congressional Committee on Intergovernmental Relations. Judge 
Small later served as county attorney for Pasquotank County. In 
1979, Judge Small was elected Judge of Superior Court of the 
First Judicial District and served as senior resident judge for 
seventeen years. Judge Small is an active volunteer, serving on 
the Board of Directors of the Albemarle Hospital, and the 
American Red Cross. He has received numerous awards and honors 
from the Jaycees, the Boy Scouts, Volunteer Fireman, the 
Chamber of Commerce, and the Rotary and Elks clubs.
    Further, Judge Small served his country during World War II 
in the U.S. Navy.
    Judge Small is an outstanding mentor and volunteer. For 
over five decades, he has been an exceptional jurist, and civic 
leader.

 To Designate the Federal Building Located at 799 United Nations Plaza 
 in New York, New York, as the ``Ronald H. Brown United States Mission 
                    to the United Nations Building''


                           Public Law 111-35


                               (H.R. 837)


                             June 30, 2009

    This law designates the Federal building at 799 United 
Nations Plaza in New York, New York, as the ``Ronald H. Brown 
United States Mission to the United Nations Building''.
    Ronald Harmon Brown was born on August 1, 1941. His early 
school days were spent at Hunter College Elementary School, a 
public school on Manhattan's East Side. He subsequently 
attended high school at White Plains High School and the Rhodes 
School in Manhattan. In 1962, Brown graduated from Middlebury 
College in Vermont. After college, he served in the Army from 
1962 to 1967, commanding several units in the United States, 
Germany, and South Korea. Brown was discharged from the Army in 
1967. After serving in the Army, he attended St. John's Law 
School and began working as a job developer and trainee adviser 
for the National Urban League. By 1976, Brown served as the 
National Urban League's Deputy Executive Director for programs 
and governmental affairs.
    He left the National Urban League in 1979 to work for 
Senator Edward M. Kennedy, who sought the Democratic Party's 
presidential nomination. In 1981, Brown began a career as a 
lawyer and lobbyist. In 1988, he was elected Chairman of the 
Democratic National Committee. From 1989 to 1992, he served as 
Chairman and used his skills as a negotiator and pragmatic 
bridge builder to help reunite the Democratic Party, after its 
candidate was defeated in the 1988 presidential election.
    In 1993, President William J. Clinton appointed Ronald H. 
Brown as Secretary of Commerce. During his tenure, Secretary 
Brown effectively utilized and expanded the role of the U.S. 
Department of Commerce. Secretary Brown was known for his 
amiable political style and his deft skill in negotiations and, 
as Secretary, he used these qualities effectively to promote 
U.S. trade, expand foreign markets for American businesses, and 
spur domestic job growth and economic development.
    Tragically, on April 3, 1996, while on an official 
Department of Commerce trade mission, Secretary Brown and 34 
others were killed in an airplane crash in Croatia. The 
Department of State had requested that Secretary Brown 
personally undertake the trade mission to highlight and find 
opportunities for U.S. businesses to boost economic 
reconstruction of the war torn region of former Yugoslavia. The 
trip itinerary included stops in Zagreb, the capital of 
Croatia; visiting American troops in Tuzla, Bosnia-Herzegovina; 
and Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia. The trade mission was on 
its way to Dubrovnik, Croatia, when the plane crashed on the 
coast of the Adriatic Sea.
    Throughout his life, Secretary Brown broke many barriers. 
He was the first African-American to serve as Secretary of 
Commerce and the first African-American Chairman of a national 
political party.

To Designate the Federally Occupied Building Located at McKinley Avenue 
  and Third Street, SW., Canton, Ohio, As the ``Ralph Regula Federal 
                     Building and U.S. Courthouse''


                           Public Law 111-74


                              (H.R. 1687)


                            October 19, 2009

    This law designates the Federally-occupied building located 
at McKinley Avenue and Third Street, SW., Canton, Ohio, as the 
``Ralph Regula Federal Building and United States Courthouse''. 
Representative Ralph Regula represented Ohio's 16th 
Congressional District from January 3, 1973, to January 3, 
2009. Ralph Strauss Regula was born in Beach City, Ohio, on 
December 3, 1924. After high school, Representative Regula 
served in the United States Navy during World War II. Regula 
later went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree from Mount 
Union College in 1948, and then graduated from the William 
McKinley School of Law in Canton, Ohio in 1952.
    Representative Regula served in many different capacities 
during his long tenure in public service. He was a member of 
the Ohio state board of education from 1960-1964, and was then 
elected to the Ohio state House of Representatives from 1965-
1967 and subsequently served in the Ohio state Senate in 1967-
1972. Regula was then elected to the U.S. House of 
Representatives in the 93rd Congress, and served for 36 years.
    Representative Regula, one of the longest serving 
Republican members of Congress, retired at the end of the 110th 
Congress after a career of nearly 50 years of public service. 
He is married to Mary Regula, and has three children and four 
grandchildren.

   To Designate the United States Courthouse Located at 525 Magoffin 
   Avenue in El Paso, Texas, as the ``Albert Armendariz, Sr., United 
                          States Courthouse''


                           Public Law 111-75


                              (H.R. 2053)


                            October 19, 2009

    This law designates the United States courthouse located at 
525 Magoffin Avenue in El Paso, Texas, as the ``Albert 
Armendariz, Sr., United States Courthouse''. Judge Albert 
Armendariz, Sr., had a long and distinguished career of public 
service. Albert Armendariz was born on August 11, 1919, in El 
Paso, Texas. After graduating from high school in 1934, Judge 
Armendariz joined the United States Army and served in World 
War II. After he left the U.S. Army, Armendariz used the GI 
Bill to continue his education. He later graduated from the 
University of Texas at El Paso and then the University of 
Southern California (USC) Law School, where he was the only 
Mexican-American in attendance. After graduating from the USC 
law school in 1950, Judge Armendariz returned to El Paso, 
Texas.
    Early in his career Judge Armendariz tackled discrimination 
head on while serving on the El Paso Civil Service Commission, 
pushing the agency to end discrimination against Latino 
applicants for civil service positions. Perhaps his most 
lasting legacy will be his work on Hernandez v. The State of 
Texas, which established Latinos as a class entitled to 
protection under the 14th amendment of the U.S. Constitution.
    From 1976 to 1985, he was an immigration judge (special 
inquiry officer) with the U.S. Department of Justice and was 
appointed to, and served on, the Texas Court of Appeals from 
July 2, 1986, until November 30, 1986.
    In addition to his service in government, Judge Armendariz 
also found time to serve in leadership positions in influential 
civic organizations. Judge Armendariz served as National 
President of the League of United Latin American Citizens 
during the 1950s and fought school segregation and 
discrimination. Judge Armendariz also helped to form the 
influential Mexican American Legal Defense ` Education Fund in 
1968. Judge Armendariz had a never-ending passion for service 
to his community, and practiced law until his death at age 88 
on October 4, 2007.

 To Designate the Federal Building Located at 844 North Rush Street in 
   Chicago, Illinois, as the ``William O. Lipinski Federal Building''


                           Public Law 111-77


                              (H.R. 2498) 


                           October 19, 2009 

    This law designates the Federal building located at 844 
North Rush Street in Chicago, Illinois, as the ``William O. 
Lipinski Federal Building''. Former Representative William O. 
Lipinski was a leader on transportation issues while he 
represented the 3rd and 5th Congressional Districts of 
Illinois. Representative Lipinski was born in Chicago on 
December 22, 1937. He attended Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa, 
and served in the United States Army Reserves from 1961 to 
1967.
    After serving in the armed forces, Representative Lipinski 
held several different public service positions in Chicago, 
Illinois, including working at the Chicago Park District for 
over 17 years.
    He was an Alderman in Chicago, a city councilman, and held 
several different positions within the Democratic Party in 
Chicago. Representative Lipinski was elected to Congress in 
1982, and served until 2005.
    Representative Lipinski was a leader on the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure throughout his tenure in 
Congress. He served as the senior Democrat on the Subcommittee 
on Railroads, the Subcommittee on Aviation, and the 
Subcommittee on Highways and Transit. He strongly advocated for 
transportation and connectivity issues in his district, whether 
it was providing a local airport with access for financing for 
infrastructure improvement or providing public transit options 
to areas in his Congressional district that lacked access. 
Representative Lipinski also played a large role in national 
transportation policy by taking leadership roles in the past 
two transportation authorization bills that provided funding 
for local priorities in highways, highway safety, public 
transit, and surface transportation programs.
    Representative William O. Lipinski retired in 2005, and was 
succeeded by his son, Representative Daniel Lipinski.

   To Designate the United States Courthouse Located at 301 Simonton 
Street in Key West, Florida, as the ``Sidney M. Aronovitz United States 
                              Courthouse''


                           Public Law 111-78 


                              (H.R. 2913) 


                           October 19, 2009 

    This law designates the United States courthouse located at 
301 Simonton Street in Key West, Florida, as the ``Sidney M. 
Aronovitz United States Courthouse''. Judge Sidney M. Aronovitz 
served as a U.S. District Court Judge for the Southern District 
of Florida for 21 years. Aronovitz was born in Key West, 
Florida, on June 20, 1920. After graduating from Key West High 
School in 1937, he attended the University of Florida where he 
was awarded a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1942, and a law 
degree, with honors, in 1943. Aronovitz went on to serve as a 
U.S. Army Captain from 1943-1946, earning multiple 
distinctions, including a Bronze Star.
    Between 1943 and 1976, Aronovitz served as a lawyer in 
private practice in Miami, Florida. He also served as a City 
Commissioner from 1962 to 1966, holding the position of Vice-
Mayor in 1965. In 1976, President Gerald Ford nominated Sidney 
M. Aronovitz to serve as a U.S. District Court Judge for the 
Southern District of Florida.
    Judge Aronovitz was commissioned on September 21, 1976, and 
served as a U.S. District Court Judge until his death in 1997. 
In addition, he periodically sat on the U.S. Court of Appeals, 
11th Circuit, and served on the U.S. Foreign Intelligence 
Surveillance Court from 1988 to 1992. During his time on the 
bench, Judge Aronovitz presided over some of Miami's most 
colorful and complex cases.
    Outside of the courtroom, Judge Aronovitz helped form 
numerous educational, religious, and health organizations in 
Dade County, Florida. The Judge Sidney M. Aronovitz Memorial 
Scholarship was formed in his honor, and is awarded yearly to 
minority students in Southern Florida wishing to continue their 
education.

 To Designate the United States Department of the Interior Building in 
Washington, District of Columbia, as the ``Stewart Lee Udall Department 
                       of the Interior Building''


                          Public Law 111-176 


                              (H.R. 5128) 


                             June 8, 2010 

    This law designates the United States Department of the 
Interior Building located at 1849 C Street, Northwest, in 
Washington, District of Columbia, as the ``Stewart Lee Udall 
Department of the Interior Building''. Stewart Lee Udall was 
born in St. Johns, Arizona, on January 31, 1920. He is the son 
of Levi S. Udall, former Arizona Supreme Court Justice, and 
Louise Lee Udall. He attended the University of Arizona, during 
which he spent two years as a Mormon missionary. During World 
War II, Stewart L. Udall served as a gunner in the United 
States Air Force in the European theater. Upon returning to the 
University of Arizona after his military service, he received 
his law degree in 1948. Two years after graduation, Stewart L. 
Udall opened a law firm in Tucson, Arizona, with his brother 
Morris, who would later serve as a Member of Congress.
    Stewart L. Udall was elected to the U.S. House of 
Representatives and served on the Committee on Interior and 
Insular Affairs (1955-1960) and the Committee on Education and 
Labor (1955-1960).
    President John F. Kennedy appointed Representative Udall as 
Secretary of the Interior and he served in that position for 
nine years (1961-1969). Secretary Udall's leadership at the 
Department of the Interior was instrumental in crafting the 
Wilderness Act, the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, and in the 
creation of the Land and Water Conservation Fund. His 
leadership also led to the expansion of the National Park 
system to include four new national parks, six new national 
monuments, eight seashores and lakeshores, nine recreation 
areas, 20 historic sites, and 56 wildlife refuges. Secretary 
Udall was also instrumental in the passage of the National 
Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the most far-reaching 
preservation legislation ever enacted in the United States. He 
also helped create and shape the National Register of Historic 
Places, the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, and the 
Historic Preservation Fund. This framework supports nearly 
every aspect of historic preservation today. After leaving 
government service, Secretary Udall continued to contribute to 
the nation's environmental affairs as an author, historian, 
teacher, naturalist, and ambassador for the great outdoors.

 To Designate the Annex Building Under Construction for the Elbert P. 
Tuttle United States Court of Appeals Building in Atlanta, Georgia, as 
                the ``John C. Godbold Federal Building''


                          Public Law 111-234 


                              (H.R. 4275) 


                            August 16, 2010 

    This law designates the annex building under construction 
for the Elbert P. Tuttle United States Court of Appeals 
Building at 56 Forsyth Street in Atlanta, Georgia, as the 
``John C. Godbold Federal Building.'' John C. Godbold was born 
in 1920, in Coy, Alabama. He received a Bachelor of Science 
degree from Auburn University in 1940 and attended Harvard Law 
School. His study of law was put on hiatus to serve in the 
armed forces during World War II. Following his service, 
Godbold graduated from Harvard Law School in 1948 and entered 
into private practice in Montgomery, Alabama. In 1966, Godbold 
was appointed to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit 
by President Lyndon B. Johnson. In 1981, he was appointed Chief 
Judge of the 5th Circuit. After creation of the U.S. Court of 
Appeals for the 11th Circuit in 1981, Godbold was appointed 
Chief Judge of the 11th Circuit. He is the only judge to act as 
Chief Judge of two Federal circuits. Beginning in 1987, he 
served as director of the Federal Judicial Center for three 
years before returning to the 11th Circuit for the remainder of 
his life.
    Judge Godbold received the 1996 Edward J. Devitt 
Distinguished Service to Justice Award and honorary doctorate 
degrees from Sanford, Auburn, and Stetson Universities in 1981, 
1988, and 1994, respectively. His article, Twenty Pages and 
Twenty Minutes--Effective Advocacy on Appeal, is widely read in 
American jurisprudence. Judge Godbold passed away on December 
22, 2009.

 To Designate the Federally Occupied Building Located at 1220 Echelon 
Parkway in Jackson, Mississippi, as the ``James Chaney, Andrew Goodman, 
         Michael Schwerner, and Roy K. Moore Federal Building''


                          Public Law 111-243 


                              (H.R. 3562) 


                          September 30, 2010 

    This law designates the Federally-occupied building located 
at 1220 Echelon Parkway in Jackson, Mississippi, as the ``James 
Chaney, Andrew Goodman, Michael Schwerner, and Roy K. Moore 
Federal Building''.
    James Chaney, Andrew Goodman, and Michael Schwerner were 
civil rights activists that were lynched and murdered during 
the Freedom Summer of 1964. These three activists were in 
Mississippi during the Summer of 1964 after a week-long 
training on strategies for organizing African-Americans in 
Mississippi to vote. On June 21, 1964, Chaney, Goodman, and 
Schwerner drove to Longdale, Mississippi to visit the site of a 
burned church in Neshoba County.
    The three activists were arrested by the Neshoba County 
police as they were leaving the site of the burned church and 
held by the police for several hours. Later, they were released 
only to be rearrested shortly thereafter. After the second 
arrest, a Neshoba County police officer turned the three civil 
rights activists over to local members of the Ku Klux Klan. All 
three activists were murdered, and their bodies were buried in 
an earthen dam outside of Philadelphia, Mississippi. These 
events sparked a national uproar and led the Federal Government 
to call up the state's National Guard and U.S. Navy to search 
for the three men. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) 
flooded the state with 150 FBI Special Agents in an attempt to 
solve the crime and, for the first time, an FBI office was 
established in the State of Mississippi. The bodies of these 
three civil rights activists were found 44 days later buried in 
an earthen dam near Philadelphia, Mississippi. The FBI 
eventually arrested and charged eighteen suspects of which 
seven were eventually sentenced. None served more than six 
years for the crime. Over 35 years later, in 2005, the case was 
reopened and Edgar Ray Killen was charged and convicted of 
manslaughter.
    FBI Agent Roy Moore was personally picked by FBI Director 
J. Edgar Hoover to lead the investigation into the deaths of 
these young men. Agent Moore said the FBI would be there until 
it broke the back of the Ku Klux Klan, reestablished the rule 
of law at the local level, and enforced the Civil Rights Act of 
1964.
    The murder of Chaney, Goodman, and Schwerner proved to be a 
tipping point during the civil rights era that focused the 
nation's interest on racial discrimination and intimidation in 
Mississippi and helped to strengthen the nation's resolve for 
equal rights for all Americans. The law is all the more 
significant since it names the Jackson, Mississippi FBI field 
office, which was created at the behest of President Lyndon B. 
Johnson as a result of this horrific crime. These young men 
died in service to their country on a mission to demand that 
all Americans enjoy the same rights in our democracy.

 To Designate the Federal Building Located at 100 North Palafox Street 
  in Pensacola, Florida, as the ``Winston E. Arnow Federal Building''


                          Public Law 111-297 


                              (H.R. 4387) 


                           December 14, 2010 

    This law designates the Federal building located at 100 
North Palafox Street in Pensacola, Florida, as the ``Winston E. 
Arnow Federal Building''. Pursuant to P.L. 108-288, the 
building is currently named the ``Winston E. Arnow United 
States Courthouse''. H.R. 4387 re-designates the building as a 
Federal building because there is a U.S. Courthouse across the 
street from the Arnow building and the Judiciary maintains that 
having two adjacent buildings designated as courthouses is 
confusing to jurors, litigants, and others.
    Winston Eugene Arnow was born in Micancopy, Florida, in 
1911. He attended the University of Florida and graduated with 
a degree in Business Administration in 1932, and later earned a 
law degree in 1933.
    Mr. Arnow began his career in private practice, but took a 
hiatus to serve in the U.S. Army during World War II as a Major 
and a member of JAG Corps. He later returned to private 
practice and served as a municipal judge before President 
Lyndon B. Johnson appointed him as a U.S. District Judge. Judge 
Arnow served as the Chief Judge of the Northern District of 
Florida, stretching from Pensacola to Gainesville, from 1969 
until 1981. Judge Arnow assumed senior status in 1981 and 
continued his work on the Federal bench until his death in 
1994.
    Judicial authorities and officials viewed Judge Arnow as 
``all integrity''; he ignored criticism by doing what he 
thought was the right and proper thing to do to protect civil 
liberties. His name is now synonymous with the momentous civil 
rights period from 1969 to 1978 in northwest Florida, because 
he followed the U.S. Supreme Court mandates to ensure public 
school desegregation and improved prison conditions in the 
Escambia County jail. Judge Arnow ordered the Escambia school 
district desegregated in 1969 and in 1978 he was responsible 
for drawing up a special electoral district to ensure that the 
County Commission would have at least one black member. In 
1972, Judge Arnow's decision regarding the Naval Live Oaks 
Reservations ended a long controversial dispute over ownership 
when he declared the historic woodland in the Gulf to be owned 
by the citizens of the United States. Judge Arnow also presided 
over the nationally spotlighted trial of the Gainesville Eight.

 To Designate the Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse Located at 515 
   9th Street in Rapid City, South Dakota, as the ``Andrew W. Bogue 
            Federal Building and United States Courthouse''


                          Public Law 111-298 


                              (H.R. 5651) 


                           December 14, 2010 

    This law designates the Federal building and U.S. 
courthouse located at 515 9th Street in Rapid City, South 
Dakota, as the ``Andrew W. Bogue Federal Building and United 
States Courthouse''.
    Andrew Bogue was born on May 23, 1919, in Yankton, South 
Dakota. After graduating from State College in Brookings, South 
Dakota, Mr. Bogue served in the U.S. Army Signal Corps during 
World War II. Upon completion of his service, he attended and 
graduated from the University of South Dakota Law School in 
1947. He went into private practice for several years before 
returning to the U.S. Army for service in the JAG Corps. After 
being discharged, he served on the South Dakota Cement 
Commission from 1957 until 1966. In 1967, Judge Bogue was 
elected a State court judge to the Second Judicial Circuit, 
where he sat for three years until his appointment as a Federal 
judge.
    Judge Andrew Bogue was nominated to the Federal bench by 
President Richard Nixon in 1970 and served for 15 years as an 
active district Federal judge before taking on senior status in 
1985. Judge Bogue served as Chief Judge from 1980 to 1985. Even 
after taking on senior status, Judge Bogue continued to hear 
cases up until a few months before his death on June 10, 2009.

 To Designate the Building Occupied by the Government Printing Office 
Located at 31451 East United Avenue in Pueblo, Colorado, as the ``Frank 
              Evans Government Printing Office Building''


                          Public Law 111-299 


                              (H.R. 5706) 


                           December 14, 2010 

    This law designates the building occupied by the Government 
Printing Office (GPO) located at 31451 East United Avenue in 
Pueblo, Colorado, as the ``Frank Evans Government Printing 
Office Building''.
    Frank Edward Evans was born on September 6, 1923, in 
Pueblo, Colorado. He went to school in Colorado Springs before 
attending Pomona College in 1941. He disrupted his studies to 
serve as a U.S. Navy pilot during World War II. After 
completion of his service, Mr. Evans attended the University of 
Denver, graduating with a bachelor's degree, and then received 
his law degree in 1950. After graduating from law school, Evans 
went into private practice in Pueblo, Colorado, and was elected 
to the Colorado State House of Representatives in 1960. In 
1964, Evans was elected to U.S. House of Representatives, where 
he served Colorado's 3rd Congressional District for seven terms 
until his retirement in 1978. Representative Evans is credited 
with bringing the Government Printing Office Distribution 
Center to Pueblo, Colorado. Representative Frank Edwards Evans 
died on June 8, 2010.

To Designate the Federal Building Located at 6401 Security Boulevard in 
      Baltimore, Maryland, Commonly Known as the Social Security 
  Administration Operations Building, as the ``Robert M. Ball Federal 
                               Building''


                          Public Law 111-301 


                              (H.R. 5773) 


                           December 14, 2010 

    This law designates the Federal building located at 6401 
Security Boulevard in Baltimore, Maryland, commonly known as 
the Social Security Administration Operations Building, as the 
``Robert M. Ball Federal Building''.
    Commissioner Robert M. Ball was the longest-serving head of 
the Social Security Administration (SSA) and one its staunchest 
supporters throughout the Administration's long history. 
Commissioner Ball was often described in press accounts as not 
only the longest-serving Social Security Commissioner, but also 
as chief advocate and defender of the SSA through the years. 
Commissioner Ball joined the SSA just four years after it was 
created by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
    Robert M. Ball was born in New York, New York, on March 28, 
1914. He graduated from Wesleyan University in 1935 with a 
Bachelor of Arts in English and in 1936 obtained a Masters 
degree in Economics. Commissioner Ball got his start with the 
SSA as a field assistant in New Jersey in 1939. He then began 
his rise through the ranks at SSA by helping to implement the 
disability insurance program beginning in 1956, orchestrating 
the developments that produced the 1972 amendments to link 
benefits to inflation, and helping to develop and implement 
Medicare. From 1947 to 1948, he served as Staff Director for 
the Senate Finance Committee's Advisory Council. After his time 
on Capitol Hill, Commissioner Ball returned to the SSA and 
served in several positions before he was appointed as 
Commissioner by President John F. Kennedy in 1962.
    Commissioner Ball went on to be appointed as Commissioner 
under President Lyndon B. Johnson twice and later served under 
President Richard M. Nixon. After Commissioner Ball left the 
SSA, he continued to have a significant role in shaping the 
program. In 1981, he served as a Member of the National 
Commission on Social Security Reform, arguing for a mix of tax 
increases and benefit cuts to maintain the viability of the 
Social Security trust fund. Commissioner Ball remained an 
outspoken opponent of any attempts to dismantle Social Security 
or privatize Social Security throughout the 1990s. One 
historian described Commissioner Ball as ``the major non-
Congressional player in the history of Social Security in the 
period between 1950 and the present.'' Commissioner Robert M. 
Ball died on January 29, 2008, and is survived by his wife of 
71 years, Doris McCord Ball.

 Authorizing the Use of the Capitol Grounds for the Greater Washington 
                             Soap Box Derby


                           (H. Con. Res. 37) 


                            March 12, 2009 

    H. Con. Res. 37 authorizes the use of the Capitol grounds 
for the Greater Washington Soap Box Derby.

   Authorizing the Use of the Capitol Grounds for the National Peace 
                       Officers' Memorial Service


                           (H. Con. Res. 38) 


                             May 12, 2009 

    H. Con. Res. 38 authorizes the use of the Capitol grounds 
for the National Peace Officers' Memorial Service.

Authorizing the Use of the Capitol Grounds for the District of Columbia 
               Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run


                           (H. Con. Res. 39) 


                            March 17, 2009 

    H. Con. Res. 39 authorizes the use of the Capitol grounds 
for the District of Columbia Special Olympics Law Enforcement 
Torch Run.

   Authorizing the Use of the Capitol Grounds for an Event To Honor 
Military Personnel Who Have Died in Service to the United States and To 
Acknowledge the Sacrifice of the families of Those Individuals as Part 
                 of the National Weekend of Remembrance


                          (H. Con. Res. 171) 


                            August 5, 2009 

    H. Con. Res. 171 permits the White House Commission on 
Remembrance to sponsor a free public event on the Capitol 
grounds on September 26, 2009, to honor military personnel who 
have died in service to the United States, and to acknowledge 
the sacrifice of their families as part of the National Weekend 
of Remembrance.

 Authorizing the Use of the Capitol Grounds for the Greater Washington 
                             Soap Box Derby


                          (H. Con. Res. 247) 


                              May 7, 2010 

    H. Con. Res. 247 permits the Greater Washington Soap Box 
Derby Association to sponsor soap box derby races as a free 
public event on the Capitol grounds on June 19, 2010.

Authorizing the Use of the Capitol Grounds for the District of Columbia 
               Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run


                          (H. Con. Res. 263) 


                              May 7, 2010 

    H. Con. Res. 263 authorizes the use of the Capitol grounds 
for the 25th Annual District of Columbia Special Olympics Law 
Enforcement Torch Run on June 4, 2010.

   Authorizing the Use of the Capitol Grounds for the National Peace 
                       Officers' Memorial Service


                          (H. Con. Res. 264) 


                            April 29, 2010 

    H. Con. Res. 264 permits the Grand Lodge of the Fraternal 
Order of Police and its auxiliary to sponsor a free public 
event, the 29th annual National Peace Officers' Memorial 
Service, on the Capitol grounds on May 15, 2010, to honor the 
law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty during 
2009.

  Commending the Heroic Efforts of the People Fighting the Floods in 
                       North Dakota and Minnesota


                             (H. Res. 415) 


                             May 12, 2009 

    H. Res. 415 commends the heroic efforts of the people 
fighting the floods in North Dakota and Minnesota.

Expressing Condolences to the Families of the Individuals Killed During 
Unusual Storms and Floods in the State of Georgia Between September 18 
    and 21, 2009, and Expressing Gratitude to All of the Emergency 
 Personnel Who Continue To Work With Unyielding Determination To Meet 
                    the Needs of Georgia's Residents


                             (H. Res. 765) 


                          September 23, 2009 

    H. Res. 765 extends condolences to the families of those 
who lost their lives, and to families who lost their homes and 
other property, in the floods in Georgia. In addition, H. Res. 
765 thanks the people of Georgia and the surrounding states who 
continued to work to protect people from the floodwaters, and 
expresses support for Federal Emergency Management Agency 
(FEMA) efforts to respond to needs of affected citizens and 
communities. It also honors the emergency responders for their 
bravery and sacrifice.

      Honoring the Heroism of the Seven United States Agency for 
International Development, Office of U.S. Foreign Disaster Assistance, 
  and Federal Emergency Management Agency-Supported Urban Search and 
 Rescue Teams Deployed to Haiti From New York City, New York, Fairfax 
 County, Virginia, Los Angeles County, California, The City of Miami, 
Florida, Miami-Dade County, Florida, and Virginia Beach, Virginia, and 
  Commending Their Dedication and Assistance in the Aftermath of the 
                  January 12, 2010, Haitian Earthquake


                            (H. Res. 1059) 


                           February 23, 2010 

    H. Res. 1059 honors the United States Agency for 
International Development, Office of U.S. Foreign Disaster 
Assistance, and Federal Emergency Management Agency-supported 
urban search and rescue teams that were deployed to Haiti in 
the aftermath of the January 12, 2010, Haitian earthquake.

Expressing the Sympathy and Condolences of the House of Representatives 
 to Those People Affected by the Flooding in Tennessee, Kentucky, and 
                        Mississippi in May, 2010


                            (H. Res. 1337) 


                             May 13, 2010 

    H. Res. 1337 expresses condolences to the families of those 
who lost their lives or property as the result of flooding 
beginning on May 2, 2010, in Tennessee, Kentucky, and 
Mississippi. In addition, it expresses appreciation to the 
people of Tennessee and the surrounding States who continue to 
work to protect people from the floodwaters and aid in recovery 
efforts and support to FEMA as it continues to respond to needs 
of the affected communities. Finally, H. Res. 1337 honors the 
emergency responders across Tennessee for their bravery and 
sacrifice.

    Resolution Observing the Fifth Anniversary of the Date on Which 
 Hurricane Rita Devastated the Coasts of Louisiana and Texas, and for 
                             Other Purposes


                            (H. Res. 1583) 


                          September 15, 2010 

    H. Res. 1583 observes the fifth anniversary of the date on 
which Hurricane Rita devastated the coasts of Louisiana and 
Texas, remembers those lost in the storm and in the process of 
evacuation, recovery, and rebuilding; salutes the dedication of 
the volunteers who offered assistance in support of those 
affected by the storm; recognizes the progress of efforts to 
rebuild the affected Gulf Coast region; commends the 
persistence of the people of the States of Louisiana and Texas 
following the second major hurricane to hit the Gulf Coast that 
season, and reaffirms Congress' commitment to restore and renew 
the Gulf Coast region.

                           Other Legislation 


   Disaster Response, Recovery and Mitigation Enhancement Act of 2009


                              (H.R. 3377) 


           Reported Favorably to the House on July 22, 2010 

    H.R. 3377 the ``Disaster Response, Recovery, and Mitigation 
Enhancement Act of 2009'', amends the Robert T. Stafford 
Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 
Sec. Sec. 5121-5207) (Stafford Act) to improve the assistance 
that the Federal Government provides to States, local 
governments, and communities after major disasters and 
emergencies.
    The Stafford Act is administered by the Federal Emergency 
Management Agency (FEMA) and provides the statutory authority 
for most Federal activities in the wake of a natural disaster 
or other emergency. While the Stafford Act is best known for 
the response and recovery activities undertaken by FEMA after 
the President declares a major disaster, the Stafford Act also 
authorizes the Federal Government's all hazard preparedness and 
mitigation programs. Together, these programs help communities 
and citizens prepare for, respond to, recover from, and 
mitigate the broad range of hazards our nation faces.
    H.R. 3377 reauthorizes certain FEMA programs and 
activities, codifies other programs that FEMA is currently 
administering under the authority of the Stafford Act but which 
are not expressly authorized in statute, amends eligibility 
under FEMA programs, and makes technical corrections to the 
Stafford Act.

                     FEMA Independence Act of 2009


                              (H.R 1174) 


           Reported Favorably to the House on April 13, 2010 

    H.R. 1174, the ``FEMA Independence Act of 2009'', re-
establishes the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) as 
an independent, cabinet-level agency reporting directly to the 
President. Prior to the creation of the Department of Homeland 
Security (DHS) in 2003, FEMA was an independent agency 
responsible for administering the Federal Government's 
assistance to States and local governments whose citizens and 
communities are affected by disasters. Since 2003, the nation 
has witnessed a stark deterioration in FEMA's response and 
provision of disaster assistance. By removing FEMA from the 
deep and layered bureaucracy within DHS, the bill restores 
FEMA's ability to be a nimble and effective response agency.
    H.R. 1174 reinstates FEMA's mission to save lives, reduce 
damage to property, and protect citizens and communities 
nationwide from a variety of hazards, both natural and man-
made. While leading a comprehensive emergency management system 
at the Federal level, FEMA will work to foster and harness 
State and local capability to respond successfully to a 
disaster. As prescribed by the bill, the newly independent FEMA 
will be led by an Administrator and a Deputy Administrator with 
extensive experience in how to prepare for, respond to, recover 
from, and mitigate hazards. The bill maintains and strengthens 
FEMA's regional structure by authorizing ten regional offices 
and three area offices. Under the bill, FEMA would have 
responsibility for core emergency management programs and 
functions currently administered by the Agency.

           Economic Revitalization and Innovation Act of 2010


                              (H.R. 5897) 


         Reported Favorably to the House on September 29, 2010 

    The Economic Revitalization and Innovation Act of 2010 
reauthorizes Economic Development Administration (EDA) programs 
and provides $500 million in funding for each of fiscal years 
2011 through 2015, for a total authorization of $2.5 billion. 
H.R. 5897 creates new programs and adds additional flexibility 
to EDA's current authorities including an increased focus on 
long-term job creation and business formation through expanded 
investments in business incubators and science and research 
parks. The bill ensures that EDA will continue to meet the 
challenges of high unemployment in economically distressed 
communities and the need for innovative job creation programs.

             Appalachian Veterans Outreach Improvement Act


                              (H.R. 5226) 


           Reported Favorably to the House on July 29, 2010 

    H.R. 5226, the ``Appalachian Veterans Outreach Improvement 
Act'', directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the 
Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) to carry out a program of 
outreach to veterans who reside in the Appalachian region in 
order to increase their awareness, access, and use of federal, 
state, and local programs providing compensation and other 
benefits available as a result of service in the Armed Forces. 
The bill permits the VA to enter into agreements with other 
Federal and State agencies to carry out programs of outreach to 
veterans and the ARC to provide technical assistance, award 
grants, enter into contracts or provide funding to persons or 
entities in Appalachia for the purpose of increased access and 
awareness of veterans programs. Lastly, the bill permits the 
Secretary of Veterans Affairs and the ARC to provide directly 
or by contract with nonprofit organizations, technical 
assistance to increase the number of veterans receiving 
Federal, State and local services.

                Fire Grants Reauthorization Act of 2009


                              (H.R. 3791)


                 Passed the House on November 18, 2009

    The ``Fire Grants Reauthorization Act of 2009'' amends the 
Federal Fire Prevention and Control Act of 1974 to reauthorize 
through FY 2014 FEMA's Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) 
program and the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency 
Response program. Additionally, it modifies the scope of the 
AFG program by permitting the use of grant funds for volunteer, 
non-fire service emergency medical services organizations and 
for certifying fire and building inspectors employed by a fire 
department or serving as a volunteer building inspector with a 
fire department. The bill also prohibits providing program 
funds to the Association of Community Organizations for Reform 
Now or any of its affiliates, subsidiaries, or allied 
organizations.
    H.R. 3791 increases funding for fire prevention and 
firefighter safety programs; and maximum AFG grant amounts. 
Also, it lowers matching and maintenance of expenditure 
requirements and authorizes the Administrator of FEMA to waive 
or reduce such requirements for applicants facing demonstrated 
economic hardship. The bill revises grant allocation 
requirements to require 25 percent of grant amounts for a 
fiscal year to be allocated to each of: career fire 
departments; volunteer fire departments; combination fire 
departments. It also requires remaining amounts to be awarded 
on a competitive basis among such fire departments.

                    Multi-State Disaster Relief Act


                              (H.R. 5825)


                   Passed the House on July 27, 2010

    H.R. 5825 directs the Administrator of FEMA, in cooperation 
with representatives of State and local emergency management 
agencies, to review, update, and revise through rulemaking, the 
factors, including the severity, magnitude, and impact of a 
disaster considered when evaluating a governor's request for a 
major disaster declaration. The bill also requires the 
Administrator to include as a factor whether a contiguous 
county in an adjacent State has been designated in a major 
disaster or emergency as a result of the same incident.

 National Commission on Children and Disasters Reauthorization Act of 
                                  2010


                              (H.R. 5266)


                   Passed the House on July 20, 2010

    H.R. 5266, the ``National Commission on Children and 
Disasters Reauthorization Act of 2010'', reauthorizes the 
National Commission on Children and Disasters (Commission) and 
extends the due date of the final report of the Commission to 
December 31, 2012.
    Hurricane Katrina exposed many problems with our nation's 
ability to meet the needs of children during disasters. 
Approximately one-fourth of the people who lived in areas 
damaged or flooded by Hurricane Katrina were under age 18. In 
response, Congress created the National Commission on Children 
and Disasters Commission in P.L. 110-161, Title VI, the Kids in 
Disasters Well Being Act of 2007. The purposes of the 
Commission are to: (1) conduct a comprehensive study to examine 
and assess the needs of children as they relate to preparing 
for, responding to, and recovering from all hazards, including 
major disasters and emergencies; (2) build upon and review the 
recommendations of other government and nongovernmental 
entities that work on issues relating to the needs of children 
in disasters; and (3) report to the President and Congress on 
its specific findings, conclusions, and recommendations to 
address the needs of children as they relate to preparing for, 
responding to, and recovering from all hazards, including major 
disasters and emergencies.
    Pursuant to the 2007 Act, the Commission is required to 
submit an interim report, followed by a final report two years 
after its first meeting, to the President and Congress, on its 
specific findings, conclusions, and recommendations. The 
Commission held its first meeting October 14, 2008. On October 
14, 2009, the Commission issued an interim report. The 
Commission issued an additional progress report on May 11, 
2010. In response to previous testimony from the Commission, 
the Committee added language to H.R. 3377, the ``Disaster 
Response, Recovery, and Mitigation Enhancement Act of 2009'', 
to require the Administrator of FEMA to consider the 
recommendations of the Commission in the drafting and updating 
of certain plans, strategies, policies, regulations, and 
educational course materials. Reauthorizing the Commission will 
allow it to advise Congress and the President on how this 
provision and the recommendations of the Commission are being 
implemented.

 To Authorize the Administrator of General Services To Convey a Parcel 
    of Real Property in the District of Columbia To Provide For the 
           Establishment of a National Women's History Museum


                              (H.R. 1700)


                  Passed the House on October 14, 2009

    H.R. 1700 directs the Administrator of General Services to 
sell, at fair market value, real property in southwest 
Washington, D.C., commonly known as the ``Cotton Annex'' site, 
to the National Women's History Museum, Inc. (NWHM), a District 
of Columbia non-profit corporation, for the purpose of 
establishing a museum dedicated to women's history. The site is 
bounded by 12th Street SW., Independence Ave., the James 
Forrestal Building, and C Street SW. The NWHM is a non-
partisan, educational institution with a mission of 
highlighting, and celebrating historic contributions of women 
in the United States.
    The NWHM was founded in 1996, and has been seeking a 
permanent physical location in the nation's capital since its 
inception. According to the NWHM, it intends to build a 
``green'' building that will cost between $250 million and $350 
million. The costs will include design, planning, construction, 
and two years of operation. The museum is expected to be a 
focal point that will have permanent and temporary exhibits, 
special events, and education materials that highlight women's 
social, political, and intellectual contributions to history. 
According to the NWHM, this museum will be the first permanent 
and comprehensive record of women's history in Washington, D.C.
    The site will be conveyed to the NWHM at fair market value 
of the highest and best use of the parcel, as determined by an 
independent appraisal. The appraisal will be commissioned by 
the Administrator and paid for by the NWHM. All costs 
associated with the transfer of the parcel will be borne by the 
NWHM. The NWHM will have five years to raise funds to construct 
the museum. If, after five years, the fundraising has not been 
successful, the property will revert back to the Federal 
Government. The Federal Government's interest in the parcel is 
further protected by limiting use of the parcel as a site for 
the NWHM for 99 years.

To Provide for the Joint Appointment of the Architect of the Capitol by 
the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the President Pro Tempore 
   of the Senate, the Majority and Minority Leaders of the House of 
Representatives and Senate, and the Chairs and Ranking Minority Members 
of the Committees of Congress With Jurisdiction Over the Office of the 
            Architect of the Capitol, and for Other Purposes


                              (H.R. 2843)


                  Passed the House on February 3, 2010

    H.R. 2843 requires the Architect of the Capitol (AOC) to be 
appointed jointly by the Speaker of the House of 
Representatives, the President pro tempore of the Senate, the 
Majority and Minority Leaders of the House of Representatives 
and Senate, the chair and ranking Minority Member of the House 
Committee on House Administration, the chair and ranking 
Minority Member of the Senate Committee on Rules and 
Administration, and the chair and ranking Minority Members of 
the congressional appropriations committees. Additionally it 
establishes a 10-year term for the AOC, as under current law, 
but permits additional reappointments and repeals the 
requirement of the Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, 1990 
that the AOC be appointed by the President, by and with the 
advice and consent of the Senate.

  To Authorize the Board of Regents of the Smithsonian Institution To 
   Plan, Design, and Construct a Vehicle Maintenance Building at the 
 Vehicle Maintenance Branch of the Smithsonian Institution Located in 
               Suitland, Maryland, and for Other Purposes


                              (H.R. 3224)


                  Passed the House on December 8, 2009

    H.R. 3224 authorizes $4 million for the Board of Regents of 
the Smithsonian Institution to plan, design and construct a 
vehicle maintenance building in Suitland, Maryland.
    The current location, at the National Zoological Park's 
General Services Building, is unsuitable based on space 
constraints and potential environmental hazards. Vehicle 
maintenance currently shares space with the Zoo's Animal 
Nutrition Commissary, exhibit production shop, horticulture 
storage, merchandise warehouse and professional office 
functions. It creates additional traffic in an area heavily 
used by pedestrians and vehicles of Zoo visitors. It is not 
convenient to vendors who supply parts for vehicle maintenance. 
The narrow service drive makes access to service bays awkward. 
It does not have proper facilities to accommodate use of 
alternative fuels.
    The Suitland site allows for greater use of alternative 
fuels by many of the 780 Smithsonian vehicles and pieces of 
equipment, valued at more than $17 million, and better 
compliance with environmental regulations. Timing for the 
relocation is also propitious since the General Services 
Building is to undergo structural renovations beginning in FY 
2012. The Smithsonian has determined that construction of a 
vehicle maintenance building at the Suitland site will be more 
cost-effective than leasing a facility.

Authorizes the Board of Regents of the Smithsonian Institution To Plan, 
Design, and Construct a Facility and To Enter Into Agreements Relating 
to Education Programs at the National Zoological Park Facility in Front 
                            Royal, Virginia


                              (H.R. 5717)


                           September 28, 2010

    H.R. 5717 authorizes the renovation and expansion of an 
existing building to be used as an educational facility at the 
Smithsonian Institution's National Zoological Park (NZP) 
facility in Front Royal, Virginia. The bill also authorizes 
third parties to construct and operate housing and food service 
facilities on Smithsonian property that further the educational 
and research program goals of the NZP. The provision of the 
housing and food service facilities and their operation are to 
be funded entirely from other sources, and the bill expressly 
provides that these costs will not be borne by the Smithsonian 
Institution.
    The NZP building will be renovated and expanded to 25,400 
gross square feet. It will consist of classrooms, laboratories, 
offices, and support spaces. The construction is planned to 
provide a code-compliant, Leadership in Energy ` Environmental 
Design (LEED)-certified facility, using the entire existing 
structure, which consists of 14,925 gross square feet. Reuse of 
existing structures is a hallmark of sustainable design and 
construction because it minimizes waste. The operation and 
maintenance costs of the renovated and expanded existing 
facility are to be covered by tuition payments from students 
attending the educational facility.

To Designate the United States Courthouse To Be Constructed in Jackson, 
     Mississippi, as the ``R. Jess Brown United States Courthouse''


                               (H.R. 842)


                   Passed the House on March 10, 2009

    H.R. 842 designates the United States Courthouse to be 
constructed in Jackson, Mississippi, as the ``R. Jess Brown 
United States Courthouse''.
    R. Jess Brown was born in Coffeeville, Kansas, on September 
2, 1912. He was educated in the Muskogee, Oklahoma, public 
school system. He received a Bachelor of Education degree from 
Illinois State University, known then as Illinois State Normal 
University, in 1935, and a Master of Education degree from the 
University of Indiana in 1943. He attended Texas Southern Law 
School.
    In 1948, he was a co-plaintiff in a lawsuit for equal 
salaries for Jackson, Mississippi school teachers. In 1953, he 
was admitted to the bar for the State of Mississippi and 
admitted to practice before the United States District Court 
for the Southern District of Mississippi. In 1955, he co-
founded the Magnolia Bar Association, and he later served on 
the Board of the National Bar Association for nearly 15 years. 
In 1958, he was admitted to practice before the United States 
Supreme Court.
    As Associate Counsel for the National Association for the 
Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) Legal Defense and 
Educational Fund, Brown filed the first civil rights suit in 
Mississippi in the 1950s in Jefferson Davis County seeking the 
enforcement of the right of black citizens to become registered 
voters. In 1961, Brown represented James H. Meredith in his 
suit to be allowed to enter the University of Mississippi; his 
victory in this case opened the doors of that university to all 
of Mississippi's citizens. While with the NAACP Legal Defense 
Fund, he played a major role in fighting discrimination in the 
areas of transportation and other public accommodations working 
alongside Thurgood Marshall, who would later become Associate 
Justice of the United States Supreme Court.
    Brown also served as counsel for the American Civil 
Liberties Union, where he was successful in obtaining reversals 
of convictions of black defendants due to discrimination in 
jury selection. He also represented numerous black defendants 
in cases where the State sought the death penalty. As a result 
of these appeals, none of these defendants were ever executed.
    R. Jess Brown died in Jackson, Mississippi, on January 2, 
1990.

  To Designate the United States Bankruptcy Courthouse Located at 101 
    Barr Street in Lexington, Kentucky, as the ``Scott Reed Federal 
                Building and United States Courthouse''


                               (H.R. 869)


                   Passed the House on March 10, 2009

    H.R. 869 designates the United States Bankruptcy Courthouse 
located at 101 Barr Street in Lexington, Kentucky as the 
``Scott Reed Federal Building and United States Courthouse''.
    Judge Scott Reed was born in Lexington, Kentucky, on July 
3, 1921, and died February 17, 1994. Judge Reed served as an 
attorney, State judge, and Federal judge. While in law school, 
he was Editor in Chief of the Kentucky Law Journal, graduated 
with distinction, and was awarded the Order of the Coif, the 
highest academic award that can be given to a law school 
graduate. While in the private practice of law, he was County 
Attorney, retained as counsel for the Fayette County School 
Board, and also distinguished himself as a trial lawyer of 
great skill. Judge Reed was elected as a Fellow in the National 
College of the Judiciary in 1965. Judge Reed was also voting 
member of the American Law Institute, a scholarly organization.
    From 1964 until 1969, Judge Reed was a member of the First 
Division of the Fayette Circuit Court when he was elected to 
the Kentucky Court of Appeals, then the highest court in the 
State, and was chosen by his colleagues of the Court of Appeals 
as Chief Justice. He became the first Chief Justice of the 
Commonwealth of Kentucky. His opinions from the Supreme Court 
of Kentucky were highly regarded and often cited by other 
jurisdictions. Judge Reed was a member of the American, 
Kentucky, and Fayette County Bar Associations.
    On November 2, 1979, President Jimmy Carter appointed him 
as a United States District Judge for the Eastern District of 
Kentucky. He became a Senior Judge on August 1, 1988, and 
retired on April 1, 1990. He was a frequent lecturer to the 
National College of Trial Judges and was named to the Hall of 
Distinguished Alumni of the University of Kentucky on April 11, 
1980.

   To Designate the United States Courthouse Located at 131 East 4th 
   Street in Davenport, Iowa, as the ``James A. Leach United States 
                              Courthouse''


                               (H.R. 887)


                   Passed the House on March 10, 2009

    H.R. 887 designates the United States courthouse located at 
131 East 4th Street in Davenport, Iowa, as the ``James A. Leach 
United States Courthouse''.
    James Albert Smith Leach was born in Davenport, Iowa, on 
October 15, 1942. Leach attended the public schools of 
Davenport, Iowa, and received his Bachelor of Arts degree from 
Princeton University in 1964. Leach later received a Master of 
Arts degree in Soviet Politics from the School of Advanced 
International Studies of Johns Hopkins University in 1966, and 
subsequently attended the London School of Economics.
    Former Representative Leach began his public service career 
in 1965 as a staff person to then-Representative Donald 
Rumsfeld. In 1968, Leach joined the U.S. Department of State as 
a Foreign Service Officer and subsequently served as special 
assistant to the director at the Office of Economic 
Opportunity. In the 1970s, Leach served in various capacities 
with the United Nations, the United States Advisory Commission 
on International Education and Cultural Affairs, and the 
Federal Home Loan Bank Board.
    In 1976, Leach was elected to Congress. Representative 
Leach represented the 2nd District of Iowa in the United States 
House of Representatives for 30 years (1977-2007). A career 
public servant, Representative Leach chaired the Committee on 
Banking and Financial Services, the Subcommittee on Asian and 
Pacific Affairs, and the Congressional-Executive Commission on 
China. He holds eight honorary degrees, has received 
decorations from two foreign governments, and is the recipient 
of the Wayne Morse Integrity in Politics Award, the Woodrow 
Wilson Award from Johns Hopkins University, the Adlai Stevenson 
Award from the United Nations Association, and the Edger 
Wayburn Award from the Sierra Club.
    In February 2007, former Representative Leach joined the 
faculty of Princeton's Woodrow Wilson School of Public and 
International Affairs as a visiting professor.

To Designate the Federal Building and United States Courthouse Located 
  at 1300 Victoria Street in Laredo, Texas, as the ``George P. Kazen 
            Federal Building and United States Courthouse''


                              (H.R. 2423)


                  Passed the House on October 15, 2009

    H.R. 2423 designates the Federal building and United States 
courthouse located at 1300 Victoria Street in Laredo, Texas, as 
the ``George P. Kazen Federal Building and United States 
Courthouse''. H.R. 2423 will not take effect until the first 
day on which George P. Kazen is no longer serving as a Federal 
District Judge.
    George P. Kazen was born in Laredo, Texas, in 1940. In 
1960, he earned a bachelor's degree in Business Administration 
from the University of Texas. He later earned his law degree 
from the University of Texas School of Law in 1961. Kazen began 
his professional career as a Briefing Attorney for the Texas 
Supreme Court in 1961 and 1962. From 1962 to 1965, he was a 
U.S. Air Force Captain in the Judge Advocate General's (JAG) 
Corps. Following his military service, Kazen worked in a 
private practice in Laredo until 1979.
    In 1979, President Jimmy Carter nominated George P. Kazen 
as a U.S. District Court Judge for the Southern District of 
Texas. Judge Kazen has served on the bench for more than 30 
years, including as Chief Judge from 1996 to 2003. On May 31, 
2009, he assumed senior status on the court.
    During his tenure on the bench, Judge Kazen considered a 
wide variety of cases. In Luna v. Van Zandt, a 1982 case, he 
invalidated a Texas statute that allowed for the detaining of 
individuals perceived as mentally ill for up to 14 days without 
a commitment hearing. In addition, Judge Kazen has testified 
before Congress and written several articles on issues of 
Federalism and the courts. Outside of the courtroom, Judge 
Kazen is a stalwart of his community serving numerous civic 
organizations in South Texas.

  To Designate the United States Courthouse Under Construction at 101 
South United States Route 1 in Fort Pierce, Florida, as the ``Alto Lee 
                 Adams, Sr., United States Courthouse''


                              (H.R. 3193)


                 Passed the House on September 9, 2009

    H.R. 3193 designates the United States courthouse under 
construction at 101 South United States Route 1 in Fort Pierce, 
Florida, as the ``Alto Lee Adams, Sr., United States 
Courthouse''. Alto Lee Adams, Sr. was born and raised in Walton 
County, Florida, and graduated from the University of Florida 
Law School in 1921. After practicing law in Fort Pierce County 
for 14 years, Judge Adams was appointed to the Florida state 
circuit court in 1938.
    In 1940, Florida citizens voted for the creation of a 
seventh seat on the State Supreme Court. Then-Governor Cone 
appointed Judge Adams to the State's highest court. He served 
on the Florida Supreme Court until 1951, the last two years as 
the Chief Justice. During this time, Justice Adams authored one 
of his most highly-regarded decisions in Taylor v. State, which 
illustrated Justice Adams' dedication to civil rights. He wrote 
that ``[a]s to the relative rights and duties, the law makes no 
[racial] distinction.'' Justice Adams also continually 
advocated for individual property rights over the Federal 
Government's power of eminent domain. In 1967, then-Governor 
Kirk re-appointed Justice Adams to the State Supreme Court, 
where he remained on the court until his mandatory retirement 
in 1968. Throughout his legal career, Justice Adams co-authored 
a book and wrote several articles regarding legal history and 
philosophy. His 13 years of service on the Florida State 
Supreme Court are marked by his fairness on the bench.
    He was also an active member of his community serving as 
President of the Florida State Elks Association and as Vice 
Chair of the State Welfare Board.

To Designate the Federal Building and United States Courthouse Located 
 at 224 South Boulder Avenue in Tulsa, Oklahoma, as the ``H. Dale Cook 
            Federal Building and United States Courthouse''


                              (H.R. 3305)


                 Passed the House on November 17, 2009

    H.R. 3305 designates the Federal building and United States 
courthouse located at 224 South Boulder Avenue in Tulsa, 
Oklahoma, as the ``H. Dale Cook Federal Building and United 
States Courthouse''. H. Dale Cook was born April 14, 1924 in 
Guthrie, Oklahoma.
    On December 2, 1974, President Gerald Ford nominated H. 
Dale Cook to serve as a Federal Judge for the United States 
District Court for the Western, Northern, and Eastern Districts 
of Oklahoma. Cook was confirmed by the U.S. Senate on December 
18, 1974. In 1979, Cook became the Chief Judge for the Northern 
District of Oklahoma, and held this position until becoming 
Senior Judge in 1992. As a Senior Judge, Cook carried a robust 
criminal docket until months before his death in September 
2008.
    H. Dale Cook spent much of his professional career in 
public service. During 1944 and 1945, he served as a fighter 
pilot instructor and achieved a Lieutenant rank in the United 
States Army Air Corps. He then served in the United States Air 
Force Reserve from 1945 until 1953. During that time, he earned 
his Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Laws from the 
University of Oklahoma and the University of Oklahoma School of 
Law in 1949 and 1950, respectively.
    Before becoming a Federal Judge, H. Dale Cook held various 
public service roles, including serving as the Logan County, 
Oklahoma Attorney (1950-51), First Assistant U.S. Attorney for 
the Western District of Oklahoma (1954-58), and as Legal 
Counsel to the Governor of Oklahoma (1963-65). From 1971 to 
1974, Cook served in Washington, D.C. as the Director of the 
Bureau of Hearings and Appeals for the Social Security 
Administration. His career also contained multiple tenures in 
private practice, and from 1969 to 1971, he served as President 
of Shepherd Mall State Bank in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

    Authorizing the Use of the Capitol Grounds for a celebration of 
                            Citizenship Day


                           (H. Con. Res. 136)


                 Passed the House on September 9, 2009

    H. Con. Res. 136 permits the National Korean American 
Service and Education Consortium to sponsor a free public event 
on the Capitol grounds on September 17, 2009, to celebrate 
Citizenship Day.

                                Hearings

    During the 111th Congress, the Subcommittee on Economic 
Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management held 34 
hearings and three Members' roundtables.

     GSA's Economic Recovery Role: Job Creation, Repair and Energy 
           Efficiency in Federal Buildings and Accountability

    On February 11, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on how infrastructure investment in Federal 
buildings contributes to job creation and economic recovery. 
The Subcommittee received testimony from the Acting 
Administrator of General Services, a representative of an 
association of architects, and other interested parties.
    The Acting Administrator of General Services testified 
regarding the energy efficiency of solar energy, in particular 
solar panels and solar roof installations, and the importance 
of such investment to the nation's economic recovery. According 
to one witness, production and installation of solar energy 
systems creates more high-quality jobs than investment in any 
other energy technology: 140 manufacturing jobs, 100 
installation jobs, and three ongoing operations and maintenance 
jobs are created with each installation of ten megawatt 
photovoltaic capacity.
    These infrastructure investments improve energy efficiency 
and promote alternative/renewable energy technologies. They 
also produce a positive return on investment by reducing 
operating costs and energy consumption. According to the 
General Services Administration (GSA), for every $1 million 
invested in Federal construction, an additional $4.3 million is 
generated in the local economy. GSA ready-to-go projects 
include repair, alteration, and construction of land ports of 
entry, Federal buildings, and U.S. courthouses. An example of a 
ready-to-go project with a significant energy efficiency 
component is the Internal Revenue Service project in 
Massachusetts. This project will incorporate advantages of site 
location and building characteristics to install solar roof 
technology, which will reduce heating and cooling loads, and 
will provide electricity for building operations. Another 
example of investment in energy technology is the Federal 
building in Portland, Oregon. This project involves removing 
the exterior precast cladding and replacing it with new energy 
efficient window walls. Not only will the new building be more 
energy efficient but also the retrofit will create 
approximately 13,000 additional square feet in the building.
    The Acting Administrator also testified regarding how GSA 
planned to select projects funded under the American Recovery 
and Reinvestment Act (Recovery Act) (P.L. 111-5). GSA testified 
that the agency had convened a team consisting of national and 
regional office representatives to review projects that would 
be good candidates for funding. GSA planned to evaluate 
projects on a number of criteria, the two most important 
criteria being: (1) how quickly the project could get started, 
and (2) how much added energy efficiency and sustainability 
could be gained from projects ready for construction award 
within 90-day, one-year, and two-year time frames.
    The Subcommittee also reviewed how using contracting 
techniques such as design-build contracts would allow GSA to 
start work quickly and make simultaneous improvements to 
existing designs. The agency gathered and prepared standard 
scopes of work for many of these improvements, including some 
provided by the national laboratories run by the Department of 
Energy.

    Post-Katrina Disaster Response and Recovery: Evaluating FEMA's 
 Continuing Efforts in the Gulf Coast and Response to Recent Disasters

    On February 25, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the status of the recovery from Hurricane 
Katrina in the Gulf Coast, as well as recovery efforts 
involving more recent disasters in Texas and Kentucky. The 
Subcommittee received testimony from the Acting Deputy 
Administrator of FEMA; Assistant Administrator, Gulf Coast 
Recovery Office, FEMA; Executive Director of the Louisiana 
Recovery Authority; Immediate Past President of the Gulf Coast 
Community Foundation, Mississippi; and a local official of 
Grayson County, Kentucky.
    The hearing focused on overall disaster recovery programs 
being provided by FEMA and concentrated on housing policy, and 
problems and solutions regarding rebuilding public 
infrastructure. FEMA testified on the status of the disaster 
recovery programs in the Gulf Coast and difficulties in those 
programs, particularly ongoing issues with the Public 
Assistance program. A witness representing Grayson County, 
Kentucky, testified on the status of response and recovery 
efforts for ice storms that occurred the previous month in that 
county.

   Economic development Administration Reauthorization: Rating Past 
        Performance and Setting Goals During an Economic Crisis

    On March 10, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on EDA grant programs, major operations, and 
priorities for its reauthorization. The Subcommittee received 
testimony from the Acting Assistant Secretary of Commerce for 
Economic Development, U.S. Department of Commerce; Acting 
Deputy Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic 
Development, EDA; Executive Director of the Iowa Northland 
Regional Council of Governments; Director of the EDA University 
Program at the University of Michigan; Executive Director of 
the Northern Maine Development Commission; Executive Director 
of the South Florida Regional Planning Council; Former Director 
of the Office of Strategic Planning, EDA; and a representative 
of Grant Thornton.
    Witness testimony focused on EDA's $150 million 
appropriation under the Recovery Act, and EDA's recent $500 
million supplemental appropriation to address the economic 
recovery of disaster-impacted communities. EDA's program 
effectiveness was confirmed by testimony from a representative 
of Grant Thornton. Grant Thornton completed a study of EDA's 
construction program which found that 2.2 to five jobs were 
created for every $10,000 of EDA investment. Furthermore, 
evidence was presented to demonstrate the particular 
effectiveness of investments made in business incubators--a 
particular investment focus of EDA historically.

 The Serious Commerical Real Estate Credit Crunch and GSA: Leasing and 
                   Building During an Economic Crisis

    On March 20, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the commercial real estate credit crunch 
and GSA's leasing and building program during the recent 
economic crisis. The Subcommittee received testimony from the 
Assistant Commissioner, Office of Real Estate Acquisition, 
Public Buildings Service (PBS), GSA; and other stakeholders.
    In reaction to a decade of the banking industry's lax 
lending practices and poor underwriting due diligence which 
lead to unprecedented residential foreclosures, access to 
capital for real estate has become burdensome and restrictive. 
According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), ``falling 
house prices and slowing economic growth are hitting credit.'' 
Banks are under continuing stress and will more than likely 
continue to restrict lending. Thus, even healthy companies are 
or will be deprived of money for expansion. Access to capital 
is essential to growth and when access is denied the economy is 
weakened.
    GSA relies on the private sector to supply by lease more 
than 50 percent of the Federal Government's need for general 
purpose office space. The inability of the private sector to 
supply space will negatively affect not only GSA's space 
distribution within its portfolio but also the budgets of 
Federal agencies that rely on GSA to supply office space. The 
hearing explored how GSA could be more efficient in its leasing 
functions to take advantage of a market that was favorable to 
commercial office space tenants.

    Disaster Capacity in the National Capital Region: Experiences, 
                      Capabilities, and Weaknesses

    On April 3, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on disaster preparedness and response 
capacity in the National Capital Region. The Subcommittee 
received testimony from the Region III Administrator, FEMA; 
Acting Director, Office of the National Capital Region, FEMA; 
Chief, U.S. Capitol Police Department; Chief, Washington 
Metropolitan Area Transit Authority Police; Director, Institute 
for Public Health Emergency Response, ER ONE at Washington 
Hospital Center; Commanding General, District of Columbia 
National Guard; President and Chief Executive Officer, American 
Red Cross of the National Capital Area; Director, Homeland 
Security and Emergency Management Agency, Washington, D.C.; and 
Deputy Chief Administrative Officer for Public Safety and 
Director of Homeland Security, Office of the County Executive, 
Prince George's County, Maryland.
    The hearing focused on how Federal executive and 
legislative branch agencies, the District of Columbia, multi-
state agencies, volunteer organizations, and the private sector 
are preparing for disasters and how they will respond. The 
hearing also focused on plans to safeguard the citizens of the 
National Capital Region in the event of a disaster.

            FEMA: Preparedness for the 2009 Hurricane Season

    On May 1, 2009, the Subcommittee held a field hearing in 
Miami, Florida, to receive testimony on disaster preparedness 
and response in anticipation of the 2009 Atlantic hurricane 
season. The Subcommittee received testimony from the Region IV 
Administrator, FEMA, Deputy Director, National Hurricane 
Center, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA); 
Deputy Director, Florida Division of Emergency Management; 
Disaster Officer, Florida, American Red Cross; and Assistant 
Director, Miami-Dade Department of Emergency Management and 
Homeland Security.
    The Deputy Director of the National Hurricane Center 
testified on the outlook for the 2009 Hurricane Season. FEMA, 
State of Florida, and American Red Cross officials testified on 
disaster preparedness for the 2009 Atlantic hurricane season.

  Tracking Hearing #2: GSA Stimulus Funds--Up, Out, and Creating Jobs

    On May 5, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to receive 
testimony on Recovery Act implementation efforts in programs 
administered by GSA. The Subcommittee received testimony from 
the Project Management Office Executive of GSA; GSA Inspector 
General (GSA IG); and Assistant Deputy Commissioner, Budget, 
Finance, and Management of the Social Security Administration 
(SSA).
    The Recovery Act provided $5.5 billion for GSA to repair, 
alter, and construct Federal buildings, and to convert existing 
Federal buildings into more energy efficient buildings. On 
March 31, 2009, GSA released a comprehensive list of Recovery 
Act capital projects, including projects in all 50 states, the 
District of Columbia, and two U.S. territories. In particular, 
the Subcommittee reviewed the status of SSA's National Computer 
Center (NCC) currently located at Woodlawn, Maryland, and 
construction of the new Department of Homeland Security (DHS) 
headquarters at St. Elizabeths, Washington, D.C.
    The Subcommittee reviewed the steps that GSA had taken to 
hire contractor support to aid in Recovery Act project 
management. Members also investigated the energy efficiency and 
conservation aspects of GSA's plans, including projects with 
green roofs, photovoltaic roofs, and cool membrane roofs.
    The GSA IG testified about the challenges associated with 
implementing Recovery Act funds, an amount four times greater 
than the normal appropriation amount for GSA. According to the 
GSA IG, GSA faced four challenges in implementing the Recovery 
Act: (1) hiring qualified personnel; (2) risks related to 
security, conflicts of interest, and contactor management; (3) 
managing projects to prevent cost escalations beyond approved 
funding and avoiding delays; and (4) managing unbudgeted 
customer needs.

 Still Post-Katrina: How FEMA Decides When Housing Responsibilities End

    On May 22, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to receive 
testimony on the status of housing assistance provided to 
individuals and families in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. 
The Subcommittee received testimony from the Acting Deputy 
Administrator, FEMA; Senior Advisor to the Secretary for 
Disaster and Recovery Programs, U.S. Department of Housing and 
Urban Development; Executive Director, Louisiana Recovery 
Authority; and Bishop, Episcopal Diocese of Louisiana.
    Witnesses from FEMA and the Department of Housing and Urban 
Development testified on the status of housing programs 
implemented as part of the recovery from Hurricane Katrina. The 
Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Louisiana testified on case 
management programs and the difficulties faced by Gulf Coast 
residents in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.

 General Services Administration's Fiscal Year 2010 Capital Investment 
                       and Leasing Program (CILP)

    On June 8, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to receive 
testimony on the Fiscal Year 2010 Capital Investment and 
Leasing Program (CILP). GSA is the central asset management 
agency of the Federal Government. The Subcommittee received 
testimony from the Acting Commissioner, PBS, GSA.
    The CILP plays a key role in providing the necessary 
resources to maintain current real property assets and acquire 
new or replacement assets, through ownership or leasing. The 
President's Fiscal Year 2010 Budget requests $610 million for 
new construction and alteration. The President's Fiscal Year 
2010 Budget request for PBS was augmented by the Recovery Act, 
which provided $5.5 billion for repair, alteration, and 
construction projects for Federal buildings. At the hearing the 
Acting Commissioner testified about the Budget request, 
including consolidation of the Federal Bureau of Investigation 
Miami/Miramar, Florida, District Office; constructing two land 
ports of entry in El Paso County, Texas and Calexico, 
California; and a roof replacement at the Eisenhower Executive 
Office Building.

    Evaluating GSA's First Experience With National Broker Contracts

    On July 15, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on GSA's National Broker Contract (NBC) and 
whether it provides GSA with a legitimate tool to meet its 
statutory obligation to procure commercial office space for 
Federal agencies. The Subcommittee received testimony from the 
Assistant Administrator, Office of Real Estate Acquisition, 
PBS, GSA; Principal Deputy Assistant Inspector General, GSA; 
Director, Physical Infrastructure, Government Accountability 
Office (GAO); and several private-sector real estate managers.
    On October 4, 2004, GSA awarded the NBC, which is 
administered by PBS. The NBC is a competitively bid contract 
that augments services provided by PBS and allows PBS to 
outsource brokerage services for leases for Federal agencies. 
The NBC for brokerage services was awarded to four companies: 
Julien J. Studley, Inc.; the Staubach Company; Jones Lang 
LaSalle Americas, Inc.; and the Trammell Crow Companies. 
Because of consolidations and mergers, there are now three 
companies participating in the NBC: Studley, Inc.; Jones Lang 
LaSalle Americas, Inc.; and CB Richard Ellis. The contracts 
were awarded as one-year base contracts, with the option of 
annual renewals for up to five years. As of April 2009, the 
four brokers had received $78.7 million in broker fees for 
handling 942 leases representing about 15.5 million square feet 
of space. The current contracts expired on March 31, 2010.
    GSA testified that, under the current NBC contracts, 
ordering was to be based upon an equitable distribution between 
all awardees until GSA established a record of performance and 
a methodology to convert to performance-based tasking. GSA did 
not implement a performance based tasking methodology for the 
NBC contracts. After the hearing, GSA made several changes to 
the original NBC. Under the successor to the NBC (NBC2), GSA 
does not intend to place orders based upon an equitable 
distribution. When issuing task orders, GSA will instead 
consider a set of factors including price and past performance. 
Further, the brokers will be required to bid a different 
percentage brokerage fee (commission) for three ranges of lease 
contract values, in place of the single fee structure of the 
first broker contract.

     Green Buildings Offer Multiple Benefits: Cost Savings, Clean 
                          Environment and Jobs

    On July 16, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the benefits of ``green'' buildings and 
GSA's unique opportunity to bolster the creation of ``green'' 
jobs. The Subcommittee received testimony from the Acting 
Director, Office of Federal High-Performance Green Buildings, 
GSA; Lead Mechanical Engineer, Office of Building Technologies, 
U.S. Department of Energy; Senior Advisor, U.S. Department of 
Labor; and a representative of a realtor association.
    Witnesses testified on the ability of their respective 
agencies to meet the mandates of the Energy Independence and 
Security Act of 2007 (EISA) (P.L. 110-140). The Subcommittee 
examined the requirements of EISA for GSA and private-sector 
facilities. EISA requires Federal agencies to reduce energy 
consumption. GSA is responsible for an extensive real estate 
portfolio that must meet the requirements of EISA: GSA owns 
more than 1,500 Federal buildings totaling 176.5 million 
rentable square feet of space; and it leases 177.5 million 
rentable square feet of space in almost 7,100 leased 
properties. The functional replacement value of the GSA 
portfolio is about $41.7 billion. GSA's utility costs are 
expected to be between $475 million and $500 million in 2009.
    At the hearing, the Subcommittee also examined ``green'' 
job training designed to assist GSA in servicing green 
buildings.

 Congressional Vision for a 21st Century Union Station: New Intermodal 
             Uses and a New Union Station Livable Community

    On July 22, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on current Union Station intermodal planning, 
as well as future development plans for Union Station in 
Washington, D.C. The Subcommittee received testimony from the 
Director, Department of Transportation, Washington, D.C.; and 
President, Union Station Redevelopment Corporation.
    Union Station, a monumental gateway structure, was built on 
its current location as a result of a recommendation from the 
1901 McMillan Commission Report. It was designed by the eminent 
architect Daniel H. Burnham and was completed in 1907. The 
Federally-owned building includes 213,000 square feet of 
commercial space. Currently, there are 130 shops in the 
building and approximately 90,000 people pass through the 
building on a daily basis. The Union Station metro stop is the 
busiest stop in the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit 
Authority (WMATA) system.
    The Department of Transportation established the Union 
Station Redevelopment Corporation (USRC), as a wholly-owned 
government corporation, to meet the obligations of the Union 
Station Redevelopment Act of 1981 (P.L. 97-125), regarding 
development and the stated goal of ``commercial development of 
the Union Station complex that will, to the extent possible, 
financially support the continued operation and maintenance of 
such complex.'' The USRC's principal office is required to be 
in the District of Columbia. The USRC Board consists of the 
Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration, the 
Secretary of Transportation, the Mayor of the District of 
Columbia, the President of the Federal City Council, and 
General Superintendent of Amtrak.
    The witnesses testified on ongoing efforts to include 
intercity buses in the Union Station terminal, as well as 
expanding the overall capacity of Union Station. The 
Subcommittee will continue to examine the efforts of Union 
Station to expand its intermodal capabilities.

           Post-Katrina: What It Takes To Cut the Bureaucracy

    On July 27, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on defining a catastrophic disaster, the role 
of the Federal Government after a catastrophic disaster, and 
whether additional authority is needed to address the response 
and recovery from a catastrophic disaster. The Subcommittee 
received testimony from Representative David Loebsack; 
Administrator, FEMA; former FEMA officials, and representatives 
of academia, emergency management associations, the American 
Red Cross, and other stakeholders.
    At the hearing academic and government witnesses testified 
on the difficulties in defining catastrophic disasters. 
Witnesses also testified on how the Stafford Act could be used 
in a catastrophic disaster and what new authorities might be 
needed.

  Doing Business With the Government: The Record and Goals for Small, 
                 Minority and Disadvantaged Businesses

    On September 17, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the small business plans for the agencies 
under the Subcommittee's jurisdiction. The Subcommittee 
received testimony from the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for 
Economic Development, U.S. Department of Commerce; 
Commissioner, PBS, GSA; and Director, Office of Facilities 
Engineering and Operations, Smithsonian Institution.
    The Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) governs the 
process by which the Federal Government procures goods and 
services. With respect to small business concerns, the FAR, 
under Part 52.219.8, states that: ``It is the policy of the 
United States that small business concerns, veteran-owned small 
business concerns, service-disabled veteran-owned small 
business concerns, HUB Zone small business concerns, small 
disadvantaged business concerns, and women-owned small business 
concerns shall have the maximum practicable opportunity to 
participate in performing contracts let by any Federal agency, 
including contracts and subcontracts for subsystems, 
assemblies, components, and related services for major 
systems.'' To implement this policy, each Federal agency 
establishes as annual goal that represents, for that agency, 
the maximum practicable opportunity for small business 
concerns.
    Agency witnesses testified about their efforts to meet 
their internal small business goals in the previous fiscal 
year.

Risk-Based Security in Federal Buildings Targeting Funds to Real Risks 
             and Eliminating Unnecessary Security Obstacles

    On September 23, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the Federal Protective Service (FPS). The 
Subcommittee received testimony from the Deputy Secretary, U.S. 
Department of Transportation; Director, Physical 
Infrastructure, GAO; Commissioner, PBS, GSA; Director, Physical 
Planning Division, National Capital Planning Commission; 
Director, FPS, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement; 
Regional Director, National Capital Region FPS; and other 
interested parties.
    FPS is a part of the frontline defense for thousands of 
Federal buildings, which include agency headquarters, Federal 
office buildings, U.S. courthouses, SSA buildings, and other 
buildings. FPS delivers integrated security and law enforcement 
services to all Federal buildings that GSA owns, controls, or 
leases. FPS is a ``fee-for-service'' organization, and FPS 
customers reimburse FPS for these services through direct 
billing. FPS services include providing a visible uniformed 
presence in major Federal buildings; responding to criminal 
incidents and other emergencies; installing and monitoring 
security devices and systems; investigating criminal incidents; 
conducting physical security surveys; coordinating a 
comprehensive program for occupants' emergency plans; 
presenting formal crime prevention and security awareness 
programs; and providing police emergency and special security 
services during natural disasters, such as earthquakes, 
hurricanes, and major civil disturbances, as well as during 
man-made disasters, such as bomb explosions and riots.
    On February 13, 2007, Chairman James L. Oberstar and 
Subcommittee Chair Eleanor Holmes Norton wrote to GAO to 
express concern about the Bush administration's proposal to 
reduce the number of FPS officers and their presence nationally 
in Federal buildings. GAO was asked to examine whether these 
proposals would adversely affect the Federal Government's 
efforts to protect the thousands of Federal workers in Federal 
buildings and the public who use Federal public buildings on a 
daily basis. The Committee also asked GAO to examine the 
placement of the FPS within DHS and how that placement is 
affecting the agency's funding, whether diminished funding has 
played a role in the reduction in force, and whether a 
reduction in force poses a significant risk to the Federal 
workforce and Federal assets.
    On November 2, 2007, the Chairman and Subcommittee Chair 
wrote to the Chairmen and Ranking Members of the Committees on 
Appropriations of the House and Senate expressing their support 
for an amendment to the Homeland Security appropriations bill, 
which would require that FPS have no less than 1,200 
Commanders, Police Officers, Inspectors, and Special Agents 
available to protect Federal buildings. The Homeland Security 
Appropriations Act subsequently included this specific 
provision.
    On July 8, 2009, GAO released its preliminary report that 
highlighted some of the ongoing security vulnerabilities in 
Federal buildings. The report cited efforts by GAO 
investigators to penetrate 10 high security buildings with 
liquid bomb making equipment and to build actual bombs (with 
inert ingredients) inside the facilities. In each instance, GAO 
investigators used entrances manned by security guards using x-
ray machines and magnetometers. GAO investigators then entered 
bathrooms and other areas where they were all able to assemble 
explosive devices. The Committee staff has received several 
briefings from GAO as a result of a multi-city investigation on 
the efficacy of FPS.
    The Committee has long been concerned with the funding 
mechanism for FPS and the lack of a risk-based approach to 
providing security to Federal facilities. Although FPS spends 
approximately $1 billion to secure Federal facilities, the 
Committee remains alarmed that the Federal Government may not 
be getting significant value for its investment, given the 
recent GAO report. The testimony from FPS reinforced the 
concern that FPS would be better able to meet its mission of 
protecting Federal buildings if it were not housed in the 
United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency.
    Several witnesses at the hearing testified that a risk 
management framework will be necessary to address rising 
security costs to protect Federal assets and that GSA will need 
to examine the current role of Building Security Committees 
making security decisions for buildings occupied by Federal 
entities.  FPS's oversight of contract guards was also 
identified as critical issue when addressing security in 
Federal buildings. Both GSA and FPS committed to working 
collaboratively together to address security in Federal 
buildings.

Final Breakthrough on the Billion Dollar Katrina Infrastructure Logjam: 
                           How Is It Working?

    On September 29, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the status of the recovery from Hurricanes 
Katrina and Rita on the Gulf Coast. The Subcommittee received 
testimony from the Chairman, Civilian Board of Contract 
Appeals, GSA; Acting Deputy Administrator, FEMA; FEMA Lead, 
Unified Public Assistance Project Decision Team, Gulf Coast 
Recovery Office, FEMA; Executive Director, Louisiana Recovery 
Authority; and President, St. Bernard Parish, Louisiana.
    The Civilian Board of Contract Appeals testified on the 
steps that were being taken to implement the binding 
arbitration program for appeals of Public Assistance recovery 
projects that was authorized in section 601 of the Recovery 
Act. FEMA witnesses also testified on other steps that were 
being implemented to improve the Public Assistance program for 
the recovery from Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in the Gulf 
Coast. Witnesses from the State of Louisiana and St. Bernard's 
Parish, Louisiana, testified on how they planned to participate 
in the arbitration program authorized by the Recovery Act and 
on the results of other steps that FEMA had taken to improve 
the pace of recovery.

 This Is Not a Test: Will the Nation's Emergency Alert System Deliver 
                 the President's Message to the Public?

    On September 30, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the status of efforts within the Federal 
Government, and specifically FEMA, to modernize, expand, and 
integrate existing emergency alert warning systems through 
IPAWS. The Subcommittee received testimony from the Assistant 
Administrator, National Continuity Programs, FEMA; Executive 
Director, Maryland Emergency Management Agency, State Emergency 
Operations Center; Director, Physical Infrastructure Issues, 
GAO; and other stakeholders.

Looking Out for the Very Young, Elderly and Others With Special Needs: 
             Lessons From Katrina and Other Major Disasters

    On October 20, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on plans and procedures to provide aid to 
children, the disabled, and others with special needs in the 
event of a disaster. The Subcommittee received testimony from 
the Deputy Administrator, National Preparedness, FEMA; 
Chairman, National Commission on Children and Disasters; Chair, 
National Council on Disability; and, Senior Director, Direct 
Services, American Red Cross.
    At the hearing, the Chairman of the National Commission on 
Children and Disasters testified on its October 14, 2009 
interim report and the Chair of the National Council on 
Disabilities testified on its August 12, 2009 report, entitled 
``Effective Emergency Management: Making Improvements for 
Communities and People with Disabilities''. The witnesses 
testified on steps that could be taken, including legislation, 
to implement key recommendations of both reports.

    Recovery Tracking Hearing #3: Following the Dollars to the Jobs

    On October 27, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on Recovery Act implementation efforts in 
programs administered by GSA, EDA, and the Smithsonian 
Institution. The hearing also focused on small and minority 
business participation in Recovery Act projects. The 
Subcommittee received testimony from the Commissioner, PBS, 
GSA; Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development, 
U.S. Department of Commerce; Director, Office of Facilities 
Engineering and Operations, Smithsonian Institution; and 
representatives of labor organizations, construction companies, 
and other interested parties.
    The Subcommittee examined the specific steps that GSA had 
taken to ensure that $5 billion of the $5.5 billion of Recovery 
Act funds would be obligated by the statutory deadline 
(September 30, 2010), and the remainder would be obligated by 
September 30, 2011. GSA established a Project Management Office 
(PMO) to administer Recovery Act funds. GSA testified about how 
the PMO works in concert with PBS to quickly obligate the 
funds, as well as how the funds had the dual purpose of 
addressing GSA's backlog of capital and maintenance needs and 
meeting the energy efficiency and conservation goals of EISA 
for public buildings. GSA testified that the agency was on 
target to obligate $5 billion of Recovery Act funds by 
September 30, 2010.
    EDA testified that, although the legislation allowed for 
obligation of funds through September 30, 2010, EDA obligated 
the entire $147 million program allocation as of September 25, 
2009. In addition, the Smithsonian Institution testified that, 
as of September 2009, it had awarded 15 of 16 facilities 
improvement projects, totaling $20.7 million, 83 percent of the 
funds appropriated to the Smithsonian Institution.
    Witnesses also testified about how the Recovery Act funds 
had affected their businesses and one witness testified about 
the success of its organization's pre-apprenticeship program.

   Stimulus Tracking Hearing #4: Ensuring Money Means Security When 
           Building GSA Border Stations To Protect the U.S.A.

    On December 2, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on implementation of the Land Port of Entry/
Border Stations construction program and provide suggestions 
for the future of the program. The Subcommittee received 
testimony from the Deputy Assistant Commissioner, Recovery 
Program Management Office, PBS, GSA; and Director, Land Port of 
Entry Modernization Program Management Office, Customs and 
Border Protection (CBP), DHS.
    This hearing explored Recovery Act implementation efforts 
of GSA to construct land ports of entry and border stations. 
Under the program, CBP determines the location of border 
stations on the northern and southern borders. GSA develops 
cost estimates, facility design, construction schedules, and, 
in partnership with CBP, site selection criteria.
    The Subcommittee reviewed plans to build seven land ports 
of entry and border stations with Recovery Act funds. On an 
average day, GSA reports that $2 billion in trade takes place 
involving the 163 border stations across the southern and 
northern borders of United States. There are currently 120 
border stations under the jurisdiction and control of GSA. The 
remaining 43 stations are under the control and jurisdiction of 
DHS, with 39 of these border stations on the northern U.S. 
border. Roughly 23 million Americans cross the U.S. border to 
Mexico and Canada annually.
    The Recovery Act provides $300 million for GSA to construct 
land ports of entry. The purpose of the hearing was to examine 
the process of how GSA selects locations for border stations 
and land ports of entry and how GSA can make cost-effective 
decisions in constructing border stations and land ports of 
entry.

 Recovery Act Project To Replace the Social Security Administration's 
                        National Computer Center

    On December 15, 2009, the Subcommittee held a joint hearing 
with the Subcommittee on Social Security, Committee on Ways and 
Means, to receive testimony on the plans of GSA and SSA to 
begin the process of replacing SSA's national computer 
processing and data storage facility, the NCC, currently 
located in Woodlawn, Maryland. The Subcommittees received 
testimony from the Inspector General, SSA; Deputy Commissioner, 
Office of Budget, Finance and Management, SSA; and Regional 
Commissioner, Mid-Atlantic Region, PBS, GSA.
    The Recovery Act provides $500 million for replacement of 
SSA's NCC and it is the single largest Federal building project 
funded under the Act. This funding includes the cost of 
purchasing a site (if necessary), building a new facility, and 
part of the cost of equipping the building. SSA has entered 
into an agreement with GSA to plan, design, and construct the 
new facility.
    At the hearing, the GSA witness testified regarding the 
construction process, and the analysis, prepared jointly with 
the SSA, regarding costs associated with using the existing 
government-owned site compared to buying a new site for the 
construction of the computer center. The SSA presented 
testimony regarding the necessity of systems redundancy, 
information accuracy, and data security.

 FEMA's Urban Search and Rescue Program in Haiti: How To Apply Lessons 
                            Learned at Home

    On February 3, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the National Urban Search and Rescue 
System of FEMA, the lessons learned from recent deployments to 
Haiti, and pending legislation to reauthorize the US`R. The 
Subcommittee received testimony from the Assistant 
Administrator for Response and Recovery, FEMA; Secretary of the 
California Emergency Management Agency; Special Operations 
Chief, City of Philadelphia Fire Department, Task Force Leader, 
Pennsylvania Task Force--1; Division Chief, Training and Safety 
Division, Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Department, and Task Force 
Leader, Florida Task Force--1; Fire Chief, Virginia Beach Fire 
Department, Sponsoring Agency Chief, Virginia Task Force--2; 
and Assistant Chief/Operations, Orange County Fire Authority, 
and Sponsoring Agency Chief, California Task Force--5.
    US`R Task Forces that deployed to Haiti and FEMA provided 
testimony on their efforts in response to the Haitian 
Earthquake of January 2010.

EDA: Lessons Learned From the Recovery Act and New Plans To Strengthen 
                          Economic Development

    On February 25, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on EDA implementation of the Recovery Act, 
EDA reauthorization, the Delta Regional Authority (DRA), and 
economic development generally. The Subcommittee received 
testimony from the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic 
Development, U.S. Department of Commerce; County Executive, St. 
Louis County, International Economic Development Council; 
President, Educational Association of University Centers; and 
other stakeholders.
    The Assistant Secretary for Economic Development testified 
on the Obama administration's development of an EDA 
reauthorization proposal. All of the witnesses testified in 
support of EDA and its reauthorization for five years.

         U.S. Mayors Speak Out: Addressing Disasters in Cities

    On March 4, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on a report released by the United States 
Conference of Mayors regarding their proposed changes to the 
Stafford Act as well as related programs, policies, and 
regulations. The hearing also focused on issues related to 
disasters in cities.
    The Subcommittee received testimony from the Mayor, 
Rochester, New York; Mayor, New Orleans, Louisiana; Mayor, Des 
Moines, Iowa; representatives of emergency management 
associations, and other stakeholders.

    Snow Disasters for Local, State, and Federal Governments in the 
 National Capital Region: Response and Recovery Partnerships With FEMA

    On March 23, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the status of recovery efforts from the 
winter's storms in the National Capital Region and the lessons 
to be learned from those storms that would apply to future 
disasters regardless of cause. The Subcommittee received 
testimony from the Acting Regional Administrator, Region III, 
FEMA; Director, Office of National Capital Region Coordination; 
Director, U.S. Office of Personnel Management; Commanding 
General, District of Columbia Army National Guard; Director, 
Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency, Washington, 
D.C.; Administrator, City of Alexandria, Virginia; Director, 
Maryland Emergency Management Agency; Acting Deputy General 
Manager, WMATA; and other stakeholders.
    The hearing focused on how the Federal Government, the 
District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia, local governments in 
the region, and WMATA responded to these storms and how they 
are working to prepare for the next disaster in the region. 
Testimony was also provided on the unique jurisdictional issues 
that arise when disasters strike in the National Capital 
Region.

    Capital Assets Crisis: Maintaining Federal Real Estate With the 
                    Dwindling Federal Building Fund

    On March 24, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the financial viability of the Federal 
Building Fund (FBF) and whether GSA has been using its existing 
authorities to maintain its capital assets. The Subcommittee 
received testimony from the Commissioner, PBS, GSA; a 
representative of the Financial Accounting Standards Board 
(FASB); the lead member of the Counselors of Real Estate 
engagement group that studied PBS by invitation of GSA; a 
private sector real estate corporate officer, and a 
representative of the National Academy of Sciences.
    PBS activities are funded primarily through the FBF, an 
intra-governmental revolving fund into which agencies pay rent 
to GSA for the space that they occupy. Expenditures from the 
Federal Building Fund are used to finance the operation and 
maintenance of existing federally-owned property, to acquire 
and pay for leased space, and construct and purchase buildings. 
In January 2003, GAO designated Federal real property an area 
of high risk, in part, because of deteriorating facilities and 
an overreliance on costly leasing. According to GAO, the 
current practice of relying on leasing to meet long-term space 
needs results in excessive costs to taxpayers and does not 
reflect a sensible or economically rational approach to capital 
asset management. In fiscal year 2008, GSA reported for the 
first time ever that it was leasing more space than it owned.
    The witnesses testified regarding the Office of Management 
and Budget (OMB) scoring rules and the ways in which 
considerations of accounting treatment have proven to be the 
key drivers in asset decision-making on questions as to whether 
to lease, construct, or purchase space. Current budget scoring 
rules essentially leave GSA with only two options for meeting 
the Federal Government's general purpose space needs: either 
direct appropriations for new construction or long-term leases. 
Testimony revealed that FASB plans to issue a significant 
change to its standard on the accounting of leases that will 
eliminate the current distinction--also observed by OMB--
between operating leases and capital leases. Under the new FASB 
standard, all leases will be capital.
    The implications of this accounting change for the Federal 
Government are substantial. If this accounting change is 
adopted by OMB, it will mean that leases will no longer ``look 
cheaper'' than ownership alternatives (e.g., Federal 
construction or purchase) because the full cost of the lease 
must be scored up front rather than merely the first year's 
cost to lease, as at present. The change potentially signals a 
watershed event for Federal real property asset management. 
After the new rules become effective in 2013 (and if adopted by 
OMB), GSA will be able to enter into lease-purchase agreements 
whereby ownership of the asset will transfer to the Federal 
Government at the conclusion of the lease term, replacing the 
current practice whereby GSA is obliged to lease the same space 
over and over again, without ever achieving ownership. This 
change would also have a positive effect on the balance of the 
Federal Buildings Fund because all the rents that GSA receives 
for Federally-owned space are retained within the Fund for 
reinvestment in existing owned properties or for construction 
of new buildings.

  Proposed Fiscal Year 2011 Budgets for Regional Economic Development 
     Commissions, Priorities and Impacts on Regional Economics and 
                               Employment

    On April 29, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the President's Fiscal Year 2011 Budget 
request for regional economic development commissions. The 
Subcommittee received testimony from the Federal Co-Chair, 
Appalachian Regional Commission; Federal Co-Chair, DRA; Federal 
Co-Chair, Denali Commission; Executive Director, Northwest 
Arkansas Economic Development District; and other stakeholders.
    Given that the regional commissions and the communities 
that they serve have had extensive experience and success in 
mitigating the effects of plant closings and other economic 
dislocations, lessons applicable to the nation as a whole can 
be garnered. The DRA testified regarding its 2008 study, 
entitled ``Rethinking the Delta'', that found that for every 
one percent improvement in life expectancy, employment 
increases 4.6 percent. To improve the health of DRA residents 
and improve their productivity, the DRA has developed a program 
to bring doctors to underserved communities within the region. 
Improved access to health care would help alleviate some of the 
deterrents to companies' willingness to locate in regions 
experiencing below-average health outcomes and, therefore, lead 
to improved long-term economic opportunities for residents.
    In the Appalachian region, which has the challenge of 
economic diversification, private investment plays a critical 
role. In 2009, ARC projects resulted in private investment at a 
rate of nearly nine times the ARC investment of Federal funds. 
Furthermore, the ARC Federal Co-Chair testified that the ARC 
believes that a regional, place-based approach to development 
results in the most sustainable form of economic growth.

Priorities for Disasters and Economic Disruption: The Proposed FY 2011 
                        Budgets for FEMA and EDA

    On May 6, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to receive 
testimony on the President's Fiscal Year 2011 Budget request 
for FEMA and EDA. The Subcommittee received testimony from the 
Administrator, FEMA; and Assistant Secretary of Commerce for 
Economic Development, U.S. Department of Commerce. Witnesses 
testified with respect to their budgetary priorities in dealing 
with natural disasters, man-made disasters, and economic 
disruption.

 Too Much for Too Little: Finding the Cost-Risk Balance for Protecting 
                 Federal Employees in Leased Facilities

    On May 20, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to receive 
testimony regarding the public policy and financial 
implications of having two sets of security standards for 
leasehold acquisitions undertaken by GSA in urban- and 
suburban-based space procurements. The Subcommittee received 
testimony from Representative James Moran; Deputy Assistant 
Secretary for Infrastructure Protection, DHS; Director Facility 
Investment ` Management, Office of the Deputy Under Secretary 
of Defense, Installations, and Environment, Department of 
Defense (DOD); Assistant Commissioner, PBS, GSA; and industry 
experts in the planning, design, and construction of facility 
security countermeasures, particularly with regard to Federal 
facilities.
    To determine the appropriate security countermeasures to 
employ in a given space lease procurement, GSA and its civilian 
client agencies follow a standard promulgated by the 
Interagency Security Committee (ISC). However, to determine the 
appropriate security countermeasures to employ in a given space 
lease procurement for any DOD space requirement, GSA adheres to 
a standard promulgated by DOD, known as the ``Unified 
Facilities Criteria (UFC) DOD Minimum Antiterrorism Standards 
for Buildings''.
    Witnesses testified that the Uniform Facilities Criteria 
(UFC) standard is more stringent and more costly than the ISC 
standard. Further, while no one questioned the appropriateness 
of applying the UFC standard to DOD facilities housing combat 
and Special Forces operations both domestically and abroad, 
testimony revealed that the categorical application of the UFC 
standard to all facilities housing DOD personnel, including 
purely administrative, support-type DOD agencies and functions, 
is not based upon any specific risk analysis. Moreover, blanket 
application of the UFC standard to all DOD civilian/
administrative agencies and functions creates incongruities in 
terms of security with other Federal personnel in similar 
occupations and with similar missions. No witness provided any 
reason why DOD civilian personnel should be protected in 
accordance with security standards that are significantly more 
stringent than those used to protect other Federal workers in 
identical or analogous job categories. The three private sector 
security experts testified in strong support of the context-
driven, risk-based, flexible security standard promulgated by 
the ISC. In championing good risk management, they eschewed, in 
the words of one expert, a ``one-size-fits-all'' approach to 
security, such as applied by DOD.

   Eliminating Waste and Managing Space in Federal Courthouses: GAO 
   Recommendations on Courthouse Construction, Courtroom Sharing and 
      Enforcing Congressionally Authorized Limits on Size and Cost

    On May 25, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to receive 
testimony on courthouse construction. The Subcommittee received 
testimony from the Commissioner, PBS, GSA; Chairman, Committee 
on Space and Facilities, Judicial Conference of the United 
States; Chair, Committee on Court Administration and Case 
Management, Judicial Conference of the United States; and 
Director, Physical Infrastructure, GAO.
    The hearing focused on GAO's draft report on courthouse 
construction. GAO determined that the 33 courthouses completed 
by GSA since 2000 include 3.56 million square feet of extra 
space, attributable to: space that was constructed above the 
congressionally approved size; space built due to significant 
overestimation by the Judiciary of the number of senior judges 
and new judgeships that would need to be accommodated; and the 
Judiciary's failure to implement courtroom sharing to the 
degree supported by the courtroom utilization study conducted 
by the Federal Judicial Center (FJC), the Judiciary's 
educational and research arm. The total value of the unneeded 
or extra space was estimated by GAO to be $835 million in 
construction costs, and $11 million in recurring annual 
operating and maintenance expenses.
    The GAO estimate for initial construction costs 
attributable to building beyond congressionally-authorized size 
limitations, which at 1.7 million square feet is approximately 
one-half of the total overbuilding, was contested by the PBS 
Commissioner. The Commissioner argued that much of the extra 
space consists of void or ``phantom'' space in multi-story 
atria, which is not as expensive to build as tenant space. The 
Judiciary witnesses objected to the other one-half of the 
amount of overbuilding estimated by GAO because it unfairly 
applied courtroom sharing retrospectively, based upon the FJC 
study that was not completed until 2006.
    The GAO witness testified that its calculation of the 
savings potential through courtroom sharing on all 33 
courthouses was at the direction of the Committee, since the 
Judiciary had been asked by Congress as early as 1996 to study 
the matter and adopt appropriate courtroom-sharing policies, 
but had failed to do so. The GAO witness asserted that had the 
study been completed and the policies adopted in a timely 
fashion, the savings outlined in the GAO report could have been 
achieved. Furthermore, at the hearing, the Subcommittee learned 
that the Judiciary has not done any computer modeling of the 
FJC empirical data to determine the feasibility of courtroom 
sharing. Although the Judiciary witnesses asserted that it is 
not possible to model the data to arrive at a courtroom-sharing 
formula, the GAO witness strongly disagreed and pointed out 
that much more complex phenomenon (e.g., climate change) is 
successfully modeled today with modern computer technology.

Progress on Jobs and Small Business Opportunities as the Department of 
            Homeland Security Construction Begins in Ward 8

    On June 15, 2010, the Subcommittee held a field hearing in 
Washington, D.C., to receive testimony on progress with 
contracting and job opportunities associated with construction 
of the DHS headquarters at St. Elizabeths, Washington, D.C. The 
Subcommittee received testimony from the Project Executive, St. 
Elizabeths, GSA; Executive Director, Ward 8 Business Council; 
and other stakeholders.
    GSA is responsible for redevelopment of the St. Elizabeths 
West Campus to provide a consolidated headquarters for DHS. The 
Subcommittee examined GSA's practices and policies regarding 
jobs and contracting opportunities at St. Elizabeths Campus and 
assessed GSA's plan to incorporate DHS into the southeast 
Washington, D.C. neighborhoods of Congress Heights, Barry 
Farms, and Anacostia.
    The GSA St. Elizabeths Project Executive testified about 
the project schedule and the expectations for hiring for the 
entirety of the project. The general contractor constructing 
the U.S. Coast Guard building testified about the small 
business goals for the project, as well its expectations in 
being a partner with GSA and the community in the success of 
the project. Other witnesses testified about business 
opportunities associated with the consolidation of DHS and the 
typical workday of a construction worker on the St. Elizabeths 
West Campus.

    Building Our Way Out of the Recession: GSA's 2011 Construction, 
                   Modernization and Leasing Program

    On June 17, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on GSA's Fiscal Year 2011 Construction, 
Modernization, and Leasing Program. The Subcommittee received 
testimony from Deputy Commissioner, PBS, GSA.
    The President's Fiscal Year 2011 Budget request for PBS is 
divided into four categories: (1) repair and alteration; (2) 
design and site acquisition; (3) construction and building 
acquisition; and (4) leases. The repair and alteration request 
includes three general authorization requests for special 
program funding: Fire and Life Safety projects in various 
buildings ($20 million); Energy and Water Retrofit and 
Conservation measures in various buildings ($20 million); and 
Wellness and Fitness program in various buildings ($7 million). 
The President's Budget requests four Federal building 
modernization projects: Corman Federal Building in Van Nuys, 
California ($11 million); Frank Hagel Federal Building in 
Richmond, California ($114 million); Emmet Bean Federal Center 
in Indianapolis, Indiana ($66 million); and Daniel Patrick 
Moynihan Courthouse, New York, New York ($28 million).
    The President's Budget requests five design projects 
(including alterations of existing Federal buildings): Federal 
Building complex at 11000 Wilshire Boulevard in Los Angeles, 
California ($51 million); Edward Schwartz Federal Building and 
Courthouse in San Diego, California ($22 million); Prettyman 
Courthouse in Washington, D.C. ($23 million); Patrick McNamara 
Federal Building parking garage annex in Detroit, Michigan ($4 
million); and site acquisition and design for a Land Port of 
Entry in Calais, Maine ($2 million).
    The President's Budget requests three construction or 
acquisition projects: Land Port of Entry in Calexico, 
California ($274.4 million); St. Elizabeths West Campus, 
Washington, D.C. ($1,149.4 million); and the purchase of an 
IRS-occupied building in Martinsburg, West Virginia ($24.8 
million). GSA also submitted five leases for committee 
authorization.
    The PBS Deputy Commissioner testified about the need to 
renovate the Prettyman Courthouse in Washington, D.C., and the 
Edward Schwartz Federal Building and Courthouse in San Diego, 
California. The witness also addressed the price disparity 
between neighboring jurisdictions in the National Capital 
Region and the application of Anti-Terrorism Force Protection 
Standards.

  Five Years After Katrina: Where We Are and What We Have Learned for 
                            Future Disasters

    On September 22, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the status of recovery efforts from 
Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. The Subcommittee received 
testimony from the Inspector General for Emergency Management 
Oversight, DHS; Chairman, Civilian Board of Appeals; Region VI 
Administrator, FEMA; Executive Director, Mississippi Emergency 
Management Agency, State of Mississippi; and Chief of Staff, 
Governor's Office of Homeland Security and Emergency 
Preparedness, State of Louisiana.
    The hearing focused on the status of an arbitration program 
created for Public Assistance projects for Hurricanes Katrina 
and Rita, as well as other programs created by legislation and 
administratively to facilitate the Public Assistance Program 
for Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. The Civilian Board of Contract 
Appeals and FEMA provided testimony on how they were 
implementing the arbitration program authorized by section 601 
of the Recovery Act. The DHS IG testified on his analysis of 
the arbitration program as well as the Public Assistance 
Program in general. The States of Louisiana and Mississippi 
provided testimony on how they were implementing the 
arbitration program authorized by the Recovery Act and the 
status of the recovery from Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

     The Congressional Workplace: Safety Concerns and Future Plans

    On September 30, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the Architect of the Capitol's (AOC) 
Capitol Complex Master Plan and the role of the Office of 
Compliance (OOC) in maintaining a safe and accessible 
workplace. The Subcommittee received testimony from the 
Architect of the Capitol; Executive Director, Office of 
Compliance; and other stakeholders.
    The U.S. Capitol Complex consists of the U.S. Capitol, the 
Cannon, Longworth, Rayburn, and Ford House Buildings, the Hart, 
Dirksen, and Russell Senate Office Buildings, the U.S. Botanic 
Garden, the Capitol Grounds, the Library of Congress buildings, 
the U.S. Supreme Court Building, and the Capitol Power Plant. 
The Capitol Complex contains approximately 16.5 million square 
feet of building space including surface and below grade 
parking structures, and special purpose space such as the power 
plant, storage, and childcare centers, housed in historic as 
well as modern buildings over approximately 450 acres. The 
replacement value for these facilities is approximately $9 
billion.
    The AOC is responsible for maintaining the Capitol Complex 
and providing a safe and healthy workplace. The OOC was created 
in the Congressional Accountability Act of 1995 (P.L. 104-1). 
The Congressional Accountability Act (CAA) was passed to ensure 
that Congress and its auxiliary agencies generally follow the 
same employment, labor, accessibility, and safety laws that 
applied to both the private and public sectors. The 
Congressional Accountability Act covers an estimated 30,000 
employees, including employees of the House of Representatives, 
the Senate, the Congressional Budget Office, the Office of the 
Architect of the Capitol, the Office of the Attending 
Physician, the Office of Congressional Accessibility Services, 
the United States Capitol Police, the Government Accountability 
Office, and the Library of Congress.
    Section 215(e) of the CAA requires the OOC to inspect the 
facilities of the agencies under its jurisdiction for 
compliance with occupational safety and health standards under 
the Occupational Safety and Health Act, at least once each 
Congress. On July 13, 2010, the Office of Compliance released 
its Fiscal Year 2009 Annual Report, ``State of the 
Congressional Workplace''. The annual report documents 
compliance with occupational safety and health standards for 
the 110th Congress (2007-08) and provides projections for the 
number of hazards in the 111th Congress. The report, which 
covers 96 percent of the 17 million square feet of space 
occupied by Congress and other legislative branch facilities in 
the metropolitan Washington, D.C. area, found that there were 
9,200 hazards in the Congressional workplace during the 110th 
Congress, which represented a 30 percent reduction from the 
109th Congress, during which 13,140 hazards were identified.
    The hearing examined the AOC's efforts to address workplace 
hazards in the Capitol Complex, as well as their collaborative 
effort to make appropriate changes to some of the historic 
structures to reduce the number of hazards. Witnesses also 
testified regarding specific grievances with the AOC's office. 
The Architect of the Capitol committed to working with the 
union to address these grievances.

                                  PUBLIC BUILDING PROJECT RESOLUTIONS APPROVED
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
             Date Approved                             Location                              Project
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
September 24, 2009....................  Various...............................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives, that,
                                                                                 pursuant to 40 U.S.C. Sec.
                                                                                 3307, appropriations are
                                                                                 authorized to implement energy
                                                                                 and water retrofit and
                                                                                 conservation measures in
                                                                                 Government-owned buildings
                                                                                 during fiscal year 2010, at a
                                                                                 proposed cost of $20,000,000, a
                                                                                 prospectus for which is
                                                                                 attached to and included in
                                                                                 this resolution.

                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall require that the
                                                                                 procurement includes minimum
                                                                                 performance requirements
                                                                                 requiring energy efficiency and
                                                                                 the use of renewable energy.

                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.

September 24, 2009....................  Various...............................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives, that,
                                                                                 pursuant to 40 U.S.C. Sec.
                                                                                 3307, appropriations are
                                                                                 authorized for implementation
                                                                                 of high performance energy
                                                                                 projects and conservation
                                                                                 measures in Government-owned
                                                                                 buildings during fiscal year
                                                                                 2010, at a proposed cost of
                                                                                 $20,000,000, a prospectus for
                                                                                 which is attached to and
                                                                                 included in this resolution.

                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall require that the
                                                                                 procurement includes minimum
                                                                                 performance requirements
                                                                                 requiring energy efficiency and
                                                                                 the use of renewable energy.

                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.

September 24, 2009....................  Various...............................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives, that,
                                                                                 pursuant to 40 U.S.C. Sec.
                                                                                 3307, appropriations are
                                                                                 authorized for alterations to
                                                                                 upgrade, replace, and improve
                                                                                 life safety features and fire
                                                                                 protection systems in
                                                                                 Government-owned buildings
                                                                                 during fiscal year 2010, at a
                                                                                 proposed cost of $20,000,000, a
                                                                                 prospectus for which is
                                                                                 attached to and included in
                                                                                 this resolution.

                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall require that the
                                                                                 procurement includes minimum
                                                                                 performance requirements
                                                                                 requiring energy efficiency and
                                                                                 the use of renewable energy.

                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.
September 24, 2009....................  Washington, DC........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives, that,
                                                                                 pursuant to 40 U.S.C. Sec.
                                                                                 3307, appropriations are
                                                                                 authorized for repairs and
                                                                                 alterations to the New
                                                                                 Executive Office Building,
                                                                                 located at 725 17th Street, NW,
                                                                                 in Washington, D.C., at design
                                                                                 and review costs of $394,000
                                                                                 (design costs of $451,000 were
                                                                                 previously authorized),
                                                                                 management and inspections
                                                                                 costs of $6,257,000 (management
                                                                                 and inspection costs of
                                                                                 $423,000 were previously
                                                                                 authorized), and estimated
                                                                                 construction costs of
                                                                                 $23,625,000 (estimated
                                                                                 construction costs of
                                                                                 $5,388,000 were previously
                                                                                 authorized), at a proposed
                                                                                 total cost of $30,276,000, a
                                                                                 prospectus for which is
                                                                                 attached to and included in
                                                                                 this resolution. This
                                                                                 resolution amends the Committee
                                                                                 resolution of July 21, 2004.

                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable and
                                                                                 considering life-cycle costs
                                                                                 appropriate for the geographic
                                                                                 area, the General Services
                                                                                 Administration (GSA) shall use
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, in
                                                                                 carrying out the project.                                                                                Provided further, that within
                                                                                 180 days of approval of this
                                                                                 resolution, GSA shall submit to
                                                                                 the Committee on Transportation
                                                                                 and Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives and
                                                                                 the Committee on Environment
                                                                                 and Public Works of the U.S.
                                                                                 Senate a report on the planned
                                                                                 use of energy efficient and
                                                                                 renewable energy systems,
                                                                                 including photovoltaic systems,
                                                                                 for such project and if such
                                                                                 systems are not used for the
                                                                                 project, the specific rational
                                                                                 for GSA's decision.                                                                                Provided further, that beginning
                                                                                 on the date of approval of this
                                                                                 resolution, GSA shall, to the
                                                                                 maximum extent practicable and
                                                                                 considering life-cycle costs
                                                                                 appropriate for the geographic
                                                                                 area, use energy efficient and
                                                                                 renewable energy systems,
                                                                                 including photovoltaic systems,
                                                                                 in carrying out alteration,
                                                                                 design, or construction
                                                                                 projects.                                                                                Provided further, that beginning
                                                                                 on the date of approval of this
                                                                                 resolution, each alteration,
                                                                                 design, or construction
                                                                                 prospectus submitted by GSA
                                                                                 shall include an estimate of
                                                                                 the future energy performance
                                                                                 of the building and specific
                                                                                 description of the use of
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, in
                                                                                 carrying out the project.September 24, 2009....................  Washington, DC........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives, that,
                                                                                 pursuant to 40 U.S.C. Sec.
                                                                                 3307, appropriations are
                                                                                 authorized for repairs and
                                                                                 alterations to the Dwight D.
                                                                                 Eisenhower Office Building
                                                                                 located at Pennsylvania Avenue
                                                                                 and 17th Street, NW, in
                                                                                 Washington, D.C., at design and
                                                                                 review costs of $1,050,000, at
                                                                                 management and inspections
                                                                                 costs of $1,800,000, and
                                                                                 estimated construction costs of
                                                                                 $12,150,000, at a proposed
                                                                                 total cost of $15,000,000, a
                                                                                 prospectus for which is
                                                                                 attached to and included in
                                                                                 this resolution.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable and
                                                                                 considering life-cycle costs
                                                                                 appropriate for the geographic
                                                                                 area, the General Services
                                                                                 Administration (GSA) shall use
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, in
                                                                                 carrying out the project.                                                                                Provided further, that within
                                                                                 180 days of approval of this
                                                                                 resolution, GSA shall submit to
                                                                                 the Committee on Transportation
                                                                                 and Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives and
                                                                                 the Committee on Environment
                                                                                 and Public Works of the U.S.
                                                                                 Senate a report on the planned
                                                                                 use of energy efficient and
                                                                                 renewable energy systems,
                                                                                 including photovoltaic systems,
                                                                                 for such project and if such
                                                                                 systems are not used for the
                                                                                 project, the specific rational
                                                                                 for GSA's decision.                                                                                Provided further, that beginning
                                                                                 on the date of approval of this
                                                                                 resolution, GSA shall, to the
                                                                                 maximum extent practicable and
                                                                                 considering life-cycle costs
                                                                                 appropriate for the geographic
                                                                                 area, use energy efficient and
                                                                                 renewable energy systems,
                                                                                 including photovoltaic systems,
                                                                                 in carrying out alteration,
                                                                                 design, or construction
                                                                                 projects.                                                                                Provided further, that beginning
                                                                                 on the date of approval of this
                                                                                 resolution, each alteration,
                                                                                 design, or construction
                                                                                 prospectus submitted by GSA
                                                                                 shall include an estimate of
                                                                                 the future energy performance
                                                                                 of the building and specific
                                                                                 description of the use of
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, in
                                                                                 carrying out the project.September 24, 2009....................  Washington, DC........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives, that,
                                                                                 pursuant to 40 U.S.C. Sec.
                                                                                 3307, appropriations are
                                                                                 authorized for repairs and
                                                                                 alterations to the New
                                                                                 Executive Office Building,
                                                                                 located at 725 17th Street, NW,
                                                                                 in Washington, D.C., at design
                                                                                 costs of $18,687,000 (design
                                                                                 costs of $22,179,000 were
                                                                                 previously authorized), at
                                                                                 management and inspections
                                                                                 costs of $14,504,000
                                                                                 (management and inspection
                                                                                 costs of $12,416,000 were
                                                                                 previously authorized), and
                                                                                 estimated construction costs of
                                                                                 $164,159,000 (estimated
                                                                                 construction costs of
                                                                                 $144,271,000 were previously
                                                                                 authorized), at a proposed
                                                                                 total cost of $197,350,000, a
                                                                                 prospectus for which is
                                                                                 attached to and included in
                                                                                 this resolution. This
                                                                                 resolution amends the Committee
                                                                                 resolution of September 24,
                                                                                 2008.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable and
                                                                                 considering life-cycle costs
                                                                                 appropriate for the geographic
                                                                                 area, the General Services
                                                                                 Administration (GSA) shall use
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, in
                                                                                 carrying out the project.                                                                                Provided further, that within
                                                                                 180 days of approval of this
                                                                                 resolution, GSA shall submit to
                                                                                 the Committee on Transportation
                                                                                 and Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives and
                                                                                 the Committee on Environment
                                                                                 and Public Works of the U.S.
                                                                                 Senate a report on the planned
                                                                                 use of energy efficient and
                                                                                 renewable energy systems,
                                                                                 including photovoltaic systems,
                                                                                 for such project and if such
                                                                                 systems are not used for the
                                                                                 project, the specific rational
                                                                                 for GSA's decision.                                                                                Provided further, that beginning
                                                                                 on the date of approval of this
                                                                                 resolution, GSA shall, to the
                                                                                 maximum extent practicable and
                                                                                 considering life-cycle costs
                                                                                 appropriate for the geographic
                                                                                 area, use energy efficient and
                                                                                 renewable energy systems,
                                                                                 including photovoltaic systems,
                                                                                 in carrying out alteration,
                                                                                 design, or construction
                                                                                 projects.                                                                                Provided further, that beginning
                                                                                 on the date of approval of this
                                                                                 resolution, each alteration,
                                                                                 design, or construction
                                                                                 prospectus submitted by GSA
                                                                                 shall include an estimate of
                                                                                 the future energy performance
                                                                                 of the building and specific
                                                                                 description of the use of
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, in
                                                                                 carrying out the project.September 24, 2009....................  Washington, DC........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives, that,
                                                                                 pursuant to 40 U.S.C. Sec.
                                                                                 3307, appropriations are
                                                                                 authorized for acquisition,
                                                                                 through a purchase option, of
                                                                                 the Columbia Plaza Building
                                                                                 located at 2401 E Street, NW,
                                                                                 Washington, D.C., at a proposed
                                                                                 cost of $100,000,000, a
                                                                                 prospectus for which is
                                                                                 attached to and included in
                                                                                 this resolution.September 24, 2009....................  Miami/Miramar, FL.....................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives, that,
                                                                                 pursuant to 40 U.S.C. Sec.
                                                                                 3307, appropriations are
                                                                                 authorized for a new Federal
                                                                                 Building in the Miami/Miramar,
                                                                                 Florida area for the Federal
                                                                                 Bureau of Investigation,
                                                                                 currently located in twelve
                                                                                 separate locations spread
                                                                                 across the Miami, Miramar, and
                                                                                 Dade County, Florida area, at
                                                                                 site costs of $9,000,000,
                                                                                 design and review costs of
                                                                                 $11,924,000, management and
                                                                                 inspection costs of $8,401,000
                                                                                 and estimated construction
                                                                                 costs of $161,350,000, for a
                                                                                 combined cost of $190,675,000,
                                                                                 a prospectus for which is
                                                                                 attached to and included in
                                                                                 this resolution.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable and
                                                                                 considering life-cycle costs
                                                                                 appropriate for the geographic
                                                                                 area, the General Services
                                                                                 Administration (GSA) shall use
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, in
                                                                                 carrying out the project.                                                                                Provided further, that within
                                                                                 180 days of approval of this
                                                                                 resolution, GSA shall submit to
                                                                                 the Committee on Transportation
                                                                                 and Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives and
                                                                                 the Committee on Environment
                                                                                 and Public Works of the U.S.
                                                                                 Senate a report on the planned
                                                                                 use of energy efficient and
                                                                                 renewable energy systems,
                                                                                 including photovoltaic systems,
                                                                                 for such project and if such
                                                                                 systems are not used for the
                                                                                 project, the specific rationale
                                                                                 for GSA's decision.                                                                                Provided further, that beginning
                                                                                 on the date of approval of this
                                                                                 resolution, GSA shall, to the
                                                                                 maximum extent practicable and
                                                                                 considering life-cycle costs
                                                                                 appropriate for the geographic
                                                                                 area, use energy efficient and
                                                                                 renewable energy systems,
                                                                                 including photovoltaic systems,
                                                                                 in carrying out alteration,
                                                                                 design, or construction
                                                                                 projects.                                                                                Provided further, that beginning
                                                                                 on the date of approval of this
                                                                                 resolution, each alteration,
                                                                                 design, or construction
                                                                                 prospectus submitted by GSA
                                                                                 shall include an estimate of
                                                                                 the future energy performance
                                                                                 of the building and specific
                                                                                 description of the use of
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, in
                                                                                 carrying out the project.September 24, 2009....................  Madawaska, ME.........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives, that,
                                                                                 pursuant to 40 U.S.C. Sec.
                                                                                 3307, appropriations are
                                                                                 authorized for the construction
                                                                                 of a new land port of entry at
                                                                                 Madawaska, ME to replace the
                                                                                 existing Port of Entry, at
                                                                                 management and inspection costs
                                                                                 of $3,827,000 and estimated
                                                                                 construction costs of
                                                                                 $46,300,000, for a combined
                                                                                 cost of $50,127,000, a
                                                                                 prospectus for which is
                                                                                 attached to and included in
                                                                                 this resolution.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable and
                                                                                 considering life-cycle costs
                                                                                 appropriate for the geographic
                                                                                 area, the General Services
                                                                                 Administration (GSA) shall use
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, in
                                                                                 carrying out the project.                                                                                Provided further, that within
                                                                                 180 days of approval of this
                                                                                 resolution, GSA shall submit to
                                                                                 the Committee on Transportation
                                                                                 and Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives and
                                                                                 the Committee on Environment
                                                                                 and Public Works of the U.S.
                                                                                 Senate a report on the planned
                                                                                 use of energy efficient and
                                                                                 renewable energy systems,
                                                                                 including photovoltaic systems,
                                                                                 for such project and if such
                                                                                 systems are not used for the
                                                                                 project, the specific rationale
                                                                                 for GSA's decision.                                                                                Provided further, that beginning
                                                                                 on the date of approval of this
                                                                                 resolution, GSA shall, to the
                                                                                 maximum extent practicable and
                                                                                 considering life-cycle costs
                                                                                 appropriate for the geographic
                                                                                 area, use energy efficient and
                                                                                 renewable energy systems,
                                                                                 including photovoltaic systems,
                                                                                 in carrying out alteration,
                                                                                 design, or construction
                                                                                 projects.                                                                                Provided further, that beginning
                                                                                 on the date of approval of this
                                                                                 resolution, each alteration,
                                                                                 design, or construction
                                                                                 prospectus submitted by GSA
                                                                                 shall include an estimate of
                                                                                 the future energy performance
                                                                                 of the building and specific
                                                                                 description of the use of
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, in
                                                                                 carrying out the project.September 24, 2009....................  El Paso County, TX....................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives, that,
                                                                                 pursuant to 40 U.S.C. Sec.
                                                                                 3307, appropriations are
                                                                                 authorized for the construction
                                                                                 of a new port of entry at
                                                                                 Fabens-Casita in El Paso
                                                                                 County, TX, at additional
                                                                                 design costs of $3,800,000,
                                                                                 management and inspections
                                                                                 costs of $6,381,000 and
                                                                                 estimated construction costs of
                                                                                 $81,384,000, for a combined
                                                                                 cost of $91,565,000, a
                                                                                 prospectus for which is
                                                                                 attached to and included in
                                                                                 this resolution.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable and
                                                                                 considering life-cycle costs
                                                                                 appropriate for the geographic
                                                                                 area, the General Services
                                                                                 Administration (GSA) shall use
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, in
                                                                                 carrying out the project.                                                                                Provided further, that within
                                                                                 180 days of approval of this
                                                                                 resolution, GSA shall submit to
                                                                                 the Committee on Transportation
                                                                                 and Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives and
                                                                                 the Committee on Environment
                                                                                 and Public Works of the U.S.
                                                                                 Senate a report on the planned
                                                                                 use of energy efficient and
                                                                                 renewable energy systems,
                                                                                 including photovoltaic systems,
                                                                                 for such project and if such
                                                                                 systems are not used for the
                                                                                 project, the specific rationale
                                                                                 for GSA's decision.                                                                                Provided further, that beginning
                                                                                 on the date of approval of this
                                                                                 resolution, GSA shall, to the
                                                                                 maximum extent practicable and
                                                                                 considering life-cycle costs
                                                                                 appropriate for the geographic
                                                                                 area, use energy efficient and
                                                                                 renewable energy systems,
                                                                                 including photovoltaic systems,
                                                                                 in carrying out alteration,
                                                                                 design, or construction
                                                                                 projects.                                                                                Provided further, that beginning
                                                                                 on the date of approval of this
                                                                                 resolution, each alteration,
                                                                                 design, or construction
                                                                                 prospectus submitted by GSA
                                                                                 shall include an estimate of
                                                                                 the future energy performance
                                                                                 of the building and specific
                                                                                 description of the use of
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, in
                                                                                 carrying out the project.
September 24, 2009....................  San Diego, CA.........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives, that,
                                                                                 pursuant to 40 U.S.C. Sec.
                                                                                 3307, additional appropriations
                                                                                 in the amount of $78,000,000
                                                                                 are authorized for management
                                                                                 and inspection and construction
                                                                                 of the United States Courthouse
                                                                                 Annex, San Diego, California,
                                                                                 not to exceed 466,886 gross
                                                                                 square feet. This resolution
                                                                                 amends the Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure Committee
                                                                                 resolution dated July 19, 2006;                                                                                Provided, that the Administrator
                                                                                 of General Services shall
                                                                                 ensure that the San Diego,
                                                                                 California Courthouse Complex
                                                                                 contains no more than 22
                                                                                 courtrooms;                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall not construct
                                                                                 more than six courtrooms or 12
                                                                                 chambers in the San Diego,
                                                                                 California Courthouse Annex
                                                                                 under the authority of this
                                                                                 resolution;                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall ensure that a
                                                                                 sharing plan approved by the
                                                                                 Judicial Conference on
                                                                                 September 15, 2009, for
                                                                                 courtrooms for magistrate
                                                                                 judges is adopted within 30
                                                                                 days of this resolution and is
                                                                                 implemented in the design of
                                                                                 the San Diego Courthouse
                                                                                 Complex;                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall require that any
                                                                                 excess space not allocated to
                                                                                 courtroom or other court-
                                                                                 related use in the San Diego,
                                                                                 California Courthouse Annex
                                                                                 shall be used to provide office
                                                                                 space to Executive Branch
                                                                                 agencies that are not ancillary
                                                                                 or related to the Federal
                                                                                 judiciary;                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall submit a
                                                                                 prospectus for any additional
                                                                                 expansion space, after
                                                                                 completion of construction and
                                                                                 occupancy of the San Diego
                                                                                 Courthouse Annex, for court or
                                                                                 other court-related use
                                                                                 requested in the San Diego,
                                                                                 California Courthouse Annex;                                                                                Provided further, that, prior to
                                                                                 acceptance of the Guaranteed
                                                                                 Maximum Price (GMP), the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall advise the
                                                                                 Committee on Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the number of
                                                                                 courtrooms, chambers, court
                                                                                 space, court related space, and
                                                                                 other agency space to be
                                                                                 provided in the San Diego,
                                                                                 California Courthouse Annex;                                                                                Provided further, that no
                                                                                 additional funds, beyond the
                                                                                 GMP, in effect on the date of
                                                                                 this resolution, for the
                                                                                 procurement for the
                                                                                 construction of the San Diego,
                                                                                 California Courthouse Annex, as
                                                                                 of the date of adoption of this
                                                                                 resolution, shall be authorized
                                                                                 or obligated for the project;                                                                                Provided further, that, to the
                                                                                 maximum extent practicable and
                                                                                 considering life-cycle costs
                                                                                 appropriate for the geographic
                                                                                 area, the General Services
                                                                                 Administration (GSA) shall use
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, in
                                                                                 carrying out the project;                                                                                Provided further, that, within
                                                                                 180 days of adoption of this
                                                                                 resolution, GSA shall submit to
                                                                                 the Committee on Transportation
                                                                                 and Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives and
                                                                                 the Committee on Environment
                                                                                 and Public Works of the U.S.
                                                                                 Senate a report on the planned
                                                                                 use of energy efficient and
                                                                                 renewable energy systems,
                                                                                 including photovoltaic systems,
                                                                                 for the project and if such
                                                                                 systems are not used for the
                                                                                 project, the specific rationale
                                                                                 for GSA's decision.November 5, 2009......................  Calexico, CA..........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, that, pursuant
                                                                                 to 40 U.S.C. Sec.  3307,
                                                                                 appropriations are authorized
                                                                                 for additional site acquisition
                                                                                 and design for the
                                                                                 reconfiguration and expansion
                                                                                 of the existing land port of
                                                                                 entry in downtown Calexico, CA,
                                                                                 at additional site costs of
                                                                                 $3,000,000 (site acquisition
                                                                                 costs of which $2,000,000 were
                                                                                 previously authorized) and
                                                                                 design costs of $6,437,000
                                                                                 (design costs of which
                                                                                 $12,350,000 were previously
                                                                                 authorized), for a combined
                                                                                 cost of $9,437,000, a
                                                                                 prospectus for which is
                                                                                 attached to, and included in,
                                                                                 this resolution. This
                                                                                 resolution amends the Committee
                                                                                 resolution of April 5, 2006.                                                                                Provided, that the General
                                                                                 Services Administration (GSA)
                                                                                 will plan, design, and
                                                                                 construct a minimum of five
                                                                                 privately owned vehicle (POV)
                                                                                 southbound lanes, as
                                                                                 recommended by the
                                                                                 ``BorderWizard'' traffic
                                                                                 simulation model used for Land
                                                                                 Port of Entry (LPOE) studies.                                                                                Provided further, that GSA, in
                                                                                 coordination and consultation
                                                                                 with the U.S. Army Corps of
                                                                                 Engineers, shall submit a
                                                                                 report to the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure, within 180 days
                                                                                 of adoption of the resolution,
                                                                                 on options to plan, design, and
                                                                                 construct covering and or
                                                                                 piping underground the New
                                                                                 River, north from the
                                                                                 International Border to Highway
                                                                                 98 in the City of Calexico.                                                                                Provided further, that to the
                                                                                 maximum extent practicable and
                                                                                 considering life-cycle costs
                                                                                 appropriate for the geographic
                                                                                 area, GSA shall use energy
                                                                                 efficient and renewable energy
                                                                                 systems, including photovoltaic
                                                                                 systems, in carrying out the
                                                                                 project.                                                                                Provided further, that within
                                                                                 180 days of adoption of the
                                                                                 resolution, GSA shall submit to
                                                                                 the Committee on Transportation
                                                                                 and Infrastructure of the House
                                                                                 of Representatives and the
                                                                                 Committee on Environment and
                                                                                 Public Works of the Senate a
                                                                                 report on the planned use of
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, for such
                                                                                 project and if such systems are
                                                                                 not used for the project, the
                                                                                 specific rationale for GSA's
                                                                                 decision.                                                                                Provided further, each
                                                                                 alteration, design, or
                                                                                 construction prospectus
                                                                                 submitted by GSA shall include
                                                                                 an estimate of the future
                                                                                 energy performance of the
                                                                                 building and specific
                                                                                 description of the use of
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, in
                                                                                 carrying out the project.
November 5, 2009......................  Mobile, AL............................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, that, pursuant
                                                                                 to 40 U.S.C. Sec.  3307,
                                                                                 appropriations are authorized
                                                                                 for the construction of a new
                                                                                 U.S. courthouse, up to 346,691
                                                                                 gross square feet, located in
                                                                                 Mobile, AL, at additional site
                                                                                 costs of $2,603,000, additional
                                                                                 design costs of $6,009,000,
                                                                                 management and inspection costs
                                                                                 of $7,922,000, and construction
                                                                                 costs of $173,506,000 at a
                                                                                 proposed total cost of
                                                                                 $190,040,000, for which a May
                                                                                 11, 2000 11(b) report and a
                                                                                 fact sheet is attached to, and
                                                                                 included, in this resolution.
                                                                                 This resolution amends the
                                                                                 Committee resolution of July
                                                                                 23, 2003.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable and
                                                                                 considering life-cycle costs
                                                                                 appropriate for the geographic
                                                                                 area, the General Services
                                                                                 Administration (GSA) shall use
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, in
                                                                                 carrying out the project.                                                                                Provided further, that within
                                                                                 180 days of adoption of the
                                                                                 resolution, GSA shall submit to
                                                                                 the Committee on Transportation
                                                                                 and Infrastructure of the House
                                                                                 of Representatives and the
                                                                                 Committee on Environment and
                                                                                 Public Works of the Senate a
                                                                                 report on the planned use of
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, for such
                                                                                 project and if such systems are
                                                                                 not used for the project, the
                                                                                 specific rationale for GSA's
                                                                                 decision.                                                                                Provided further, that beginning
                                                                                 on the date of adoption of the
                                                                                 resolution, each alteration,
                                                                                 design, or construction
                                                                                 prospectus submitted by GSA
                                                                                 shall include an estimate of
                                                                                 the future energy performance
                                                                                 of the building and specific
                                                                                 description of the use of
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, in
                                                                                 carrying out the project.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall ensure that a
                                                                                 sharing plan approved by the
                                                                                 Judicial Conference on
                                                                                 September 15, 2009, for
                                                                                 courtrooms for magistrate
                                                                                 judges is adopted and is
                                                                                 implemented in the design of
                                                                                 the courthouse.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall ensure that the
                                                                                 design provides courtroom space
                                                                                 for senior judges for up to 10
                                                                                 years from eligibility for
                                                                                 senior status, not to exceed
                                                                                 one courtroom for every two
                                                                                 senior judges.                                                                                Provided further, that, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall ensure that the
                                                                                 Mobile, Alabama Courthouse
                                                                                 contains no more than seven
                                                                                 courtrooms.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services submit a flood plain
                                                                                 mitigation plan to the
                                                                                 Committee on Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives before a
                                                                                 construction award is made.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Judicial Conference of the
                                                                                 United States shall
                                                                                 specifically approve each
                                                                                 departure from the U.S. Courts
                                                                                 Design Guide for each U.S.
                                                                                 courthouse construction project
                                                                                 that results in additional
                                                                                 estimated costs of the project
                                                                                 (including additional rent
                                                                                 payment obligations) and that
                                                                                 the Judicial Conference provide
                                                                                 a specific list of each
                                                                                 departure and the justification
                                                                                 and estimated costs (as
                                                                                 supplied by the GSA) of such
                                                                                 departure for each U.S.
                                                                                 courthouse construction project
                                                                                 to the GSA. Each U.S.
                                                                                 courthouse construction
                                                                                 prospectus submitted by GSA
                                                                                 shall include a specific list
                                                                                 of each departure and the
                                                                                 justification and estimated
                                                                                 cost (including additional rent
                                                                                 payment obligations) of such
                                                                                 departure and GSA's
                                                                                 recommendation on whether the
                                                                                 Committee on Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives and the
                                                                                 Committee on Environment and
                                                                                 Public Works of the Senate
                                                                                 should approve such departure.November 5, 2009......................  Greenbelt, MD.........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, that, pursuant
                                                                                 to 40 U.S.C. Sec.  3307,
                                                                                 appropriations are authorized
                                                                                 for the construction of an
                                                                                 expansion, up to 262,579 gross
                                                                                 square feet, of the U.S.
                                                                                 courthouse located in
                                                                                 Greenbelt, MD at design costs
                                                                                 of $10,000,000, for which a
                                                                                 February 12, 1990 11(b) report
                                                                                 and factsheet is attached to,
                                                                                 and included in, this
                                                                                 resolution.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable and
                                                                                 considering life-cycle costs
                                                                                 appropriate for the geographic
                                                                                 area, the General Services
                                                                                 Administration (GSA) shall use
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, in
                                                                                 carrying out the project.                                                                                Provided further, that within
                                                                                 180 days of adoption of the
                                                                                 resolution, GSA shall submit to
                                                                                 the Committee on Transportation
                                                                                 and Infrastructure of the House
                                                                                 of Representatives and the
                                                                                 Committee on Environment and
                                                                                 Public Works of the Senate a
                                                                                 report on the planned use of
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, for such
                                                                                 project and if such systems are
                                                                                 not used for the project, the
                                                                                 specific rational for GSA's
                                                                                 decision.                                                                                Provided further, that beginning
                                                                                 on the date of adoption of the
                                                                                 resolution, each alteration,
                                                                                 design, or construction
                                                                                 prospectus submitted by GSA
                                                                                 shall include an estimate of
                                                                                 the future energy performance
                                                                                 of the building and specific
                                                                                 description of the use of
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, in
                                                                                 carrying out the project.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall ensure that a
                                                                                 sharing plan approved by the
                                                                                 Judicial Conference on
                                                                                 September 15, 2009, for
                                                                                 courtrooms for magistrate
                                                                                 judges is adopted and is
                                                                                 implemented in the design of
                                                                                 the courthouse.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall ensure that the
                                                                                 design provides courtroom space
                                                                                 for senior judges for up to 10
                                                                                 years from eligibility for
                                                                                 senior status, not to exceed
                                                                                 one courtroom for every two
                                                                                 senior judges.                                                                                Provided further, that, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall ensure that the
                                                                                 Greenbelt, Maryland Courthouse
                                                                                 Annex contains no more than 12
                                                                                 courtrooms;                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Judicial Conference of the
                                                                                 United States shall
                                                                                 specifically approve each
                                                                                 departure from the U.S. Courts
                                                                                 Design Guide for each U.S.
                                                                                 courthouse construction project
                                                                                 that results in additional
                                                                                 estimated costs of the project
                                                                                 (including additional rent
                                                                                 payment obligations) and that
                                                                                 the Judicial Conference provide
                                                                                 a specific list of each
                                                                                 departure and the justification
                                                                                 and estimated costs (as
                                                                                 supplied by the GSA) of such
                                                                                 departure for each U.S.
                                                                                 courthouse construction project
                                                                                 to the GSA. Each U.S.
                                                                                 courthouse construction
                                                                                 prospectus submitted by GSA
                                                                                 shall include a specific list
                                                                                 of each departure and the
                                                                                 justification and estimated
                                                                                 cost (including additional rent
                                                                                 payment obligations) of such
                                                                                 departure and GSA's
                                                                                 recommendation on whether the
                                                                                 Committee on Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives and the
                                                                                 Committee on Environment and
                                                                                 Public Works of the Senate
                                                                                 should approve such departure.November 5, 2009......................  Savannah, GA..........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, that, pursuant
                                                                                 to 40 U.S.C. Sec.  3307,
                                                                                 appropriations are authorized
                                                                                 for the construction of a new
                                                                                 U.S. courthouse, up to 184,955
                                                                                 gross square feet, located in
                                                                                 Savannah, GA, at design costs
                                                                                 of $7,900,000, for which a
                                                                                 March 15, 1994 prospectus and
                                                                                 factsheet is attached to, and
                                                                                 included in, this resolution.
                                                                                 This resolution amends the
                                                                                 Committee resolution of July
                                                                                 23, 2003.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable and
                                                                                 considering life-cycle costs
                                                                                 appropriate for the geographic
                                                                                 area, the General Services
                                                                                 Administration (GSA) shall use
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, in
                                                                                 carrying out the project.                                                                                Provided further, that within
                                                                                 180 days of adoption of the
                                                                                 resolution, GSA shall submit to
                                                                                 the Committee on Transportation
                                                                                 and Infrastructure of the House
                                                                                 of Representatives and the
                                                                                 Committee on Environment and
                                                                                 Public Works of the Senate a
                                                                                 report on the planned use of
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, for such
                                                                                 project and if such systems are
                                                                                 not used for the project, the
                                                                                 specific rationale for GSA's
                                                                                 decision.                                                                                Provided further, that beginning
                                                                                 on the date of adoption of this
                                                                                 resolution, each alteration,
                                                                                 design, or construction
                                                                                 prospectus submitted by GSA
                                                                                 shall include an estimate of
                                                                                 the future energy performance
                                                                                 of the building and specific
                                                                                 description of the use of
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, in
                                                                                 carrying out the project.                                                                                Provided further, that, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall ensure that a
                                                                                 sharing plan approved by the
                                                                                 Judicial Conference on
                                                                                 September 15, 2009, for
                                                                                 courtrooms for magistrate
                                                                                 judges is adopted and is
                                                                                 implemented in the design of
                                                                                 the courthouse.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall ensure that the
                                                                                 design provides courtroom space
                                                                                 for senior judges for up to 10
                                                                                 years from eligibility for
                                                                                 senior status, not to exceed
                                                                                 one courtroom for every two
                                                                                 senior judges.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall ensure that the
                                                                                 Savannah Courthouse Annex
                                                                                 contains no more than four
                                                                                 courtrooms;                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall prepare a
                                                                                 feasibility report on the need
                                                                                 for the courthouse and re-
                                                                                 evaluate the design. The report
                                                                                 shall be submitted to the
                                                                                 Committee on Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives before
                                                                                 proceeding with construction of
                                                                                 the Savannah, Georgia
                                                                                 Courthouse.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Judicial Conference of the
                                                                                 United States shall
                                                                                 specifically approve each
                                                                                 departure from the U.S. Courts
                                                                                 Design Guide for each U.S.
                                                                                 courthouse construction project
                                                                                 that results in additional
                                                                                 estimated costs of the project
                                                                                 (including additional rent
                                                                                 payment obligations) and that
                                                                                 the Judicial Conference provide
                                                                                 a specific list of each
                                                                                 departure and the justification
                                                                                 and estimated costs (as
                                                                                 supplied by the GSA) of such
                                                                                 departure for each U.S.
                                                                                 courthouse construction project
                                                                                 to the GSA. Each U.S.
                                                                                 courthouse construction
                                                                                 prospectus submitted by GSA
                                                                                 shall include a specific list
                                                                                 of each departure and the
                                                                                 justification and estimated
                                                                                 cost (including additional rent
                                                                                 payment obligations) of such
                                                                                 departure and GSA's
                                                                                 recommendation on whether the
                                                                                 Committee on Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives and the
                                                                                 Committee on Environment and
                                                                                 Public Works of the Senate
                                                                                 should approve such departure.November 5, 2009......................  San Antonio, TX.......................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, that, pursuant
                                                                                 to 40 U.S.C. Sec.  3307,
                                                                                 appropriations are authorized
                                                                                 for the construction of a new
                                                                                 U.S. courthouse, up to 334,335
                                                                                 gross square feet, located in
                                                                                 San Antonio, TX, at additional
                                                                                 design costs of $4,000,000, for
                                                                                 which prospectus PTX-CTSD-SA04
                                                                                 and a factsheet is attached to,
                                                                                 and included in, this
                                                                                 resolution.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable and
                                                                                 considering life-cycle costs
                                                                                 appropriate for the geographic
                                                                                 area, the General Services
                                                                                 Administration (GSA) shall use
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, in
                                                                                 carrying out the project.                                                                                Provided further, that within
                                                                                 180 days of adoption of the
                                                                                 resolution, GSA shall submit to
                                                                                 the Committee on Transportation
                                                                                 and Infrastructure of the House
                                                                                 of Representatives and the
                                                                                 Committee on Environment and
                                                                                 Public Works of the Senate a
                                                                                 report on the planned use of
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, for such
                                                                                 project and if such systems are
                                                                                 not used for the project, the
                                                                                 specific rationale for GSA's
                                                                                 decision.                                                                                Provided further, that beginning
                                                                                 on the date of adoption of the
                                                                                 resolution, each alteration,
                                                                                 design, or construction
                                                                                 prospectus submitted by GSA
                                                                                 shall include an estimate of
                                                                                 the future energy performance
                                                                                 of the building and specific
                                                                                 description of the use of
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, in
                                                                                 carrying out the project.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall ensure that a
                                                                                 sharing plan approved by the
                                                                                 Judicial Conference on
                                                                                 September 15, 2009, for
                                                                                 courtrooms for magistrate
                                                                                 judges is adopted within 30
                                                                                 days of this resolution and is
                                                                                 implemented in the design of
                                                                                 the courthouse.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall ensure that the
                                                                                 design provides courtroom space
                                                                                 for senior judges for up to 10
                                                                                 years from eligibility for
                                                                                 senior status, not to exceed
                                                                                 one courtroom for every two
                                                                                 senior judges.                                                                                Provided, that the Administrator
                                                                                 of General Services shall
                                                                                 ensure that the San Antonio,
                                                                                 Texas Courthouse contains no
                                                                                 more than seven courtrooms;                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Judicial Conference of the
                                                                                 United States shall
                                                                                 specifically approve each
                                                                                 departure from the U.S. Courts
                                                                                 Design Guide for each U.S.
                                                                                 courthouse construction project
                                                                                 that results in additional
                                                                                 estimated costs of the project
                                                                                 (including additional rent
                                                                                 payment obligations) and that
                                                                                 the Judicial Conference provide
                                                                                 a specific list of each
                                                                                 departure and the justification
                                                                                 and estimated costs (as
                                                                                 supplied by the GSA) of such
                                                                                 departure for each U.S.
                                                                                 courthouse construction project
                                                                                 to the GSA. Each U.S.
                                                                                 courthouse construction
                                                                                 prospectus submitted by GSA
                                                                                 shall include a specific list
                                                                                 of each departure and the
                                                                                 justification and estimated
                                                                                 cost (including additional rent
                                                                                 payment obligations) of such
                                                                                 departure and GSA's
                                                                                 recommendation on whether the
                                                                                 Committee on Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives and the
                                                                                 Committee on Environment and
                                                                                 Public Works of the Senate
                                                                                 should approve such departure.November 5, 2009......................  Washington, DC........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, that, pursuant
                                                                                 to 40 U.S.C. Sec.  3307,
                                                                                 appropriations are authorized
                                                                                 for a lease extension of up to
                                                                                 71,914 rentable square feet for
                                                                                 the Federal Emergency
                                                                                 Management Agency, currently
                                                                                 located 395 E Street, SW,
                                                                                 Washington, D.C., at a proposed
                                                                                 total annual cost of $3,523,786
                                                                                 for a lease term of up to five
                                                                                 years, a prospectus for which
                                                                                 is attached to, and included
                                                                                 in, this resolution.                                                                                Approval of this prospectus
                                                                                 constitutes authority to
                                                                                 execute an interim lease for
                                                                                 all tenants, if necessary,
                                                                                 prior to the execution of the
                                                                                 new lease.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services (Administrator) shall
                                                                                 require that the procurement
                                                                                 includes minimum performance
                                                                                 requirements requiring energy
                                                                                 efficiency and the use of
                                                                                 renewable energy.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator shall require
                                                                                 that the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement is identical to the
                                                                                 delineated area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, except that, if the
                                                                                 Administrator determines that
                                                                                 the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement should not be
                                                                                 identical to the delineated
                                                                                 area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, the Administrator
                                                                                 shall provide an explanatory
                                                                                 statement to the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives prior to
                                                                                 exercising any lease authority
                                                                                 provided in this resolution.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.November 5, 2009......................  Washington, DC........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, that, pursuant
                                                                                 to 40 U.S.C. Sec.  3307,
                                                                                 appropriations are authorized
                                                                                 for a replacement lease of up
                                                                                 to 183,157 rentable square feet
                                                                                 for the National Transportation
                                                                                 Safety Board (NTSB), currently
                                                                                 located 490 and 429 L'Enfant
                                                                                 Plaza East, SW, Washington,
                                                                                 D.C., at a proposed total
                                                                                 annual cost of $8,974,693 for a
                                                                                 lease term of up to 15 years, a
                                                                                 prospectus for which is
                                                                                 attached to, and included in,
                                                                                 this resolution.                                                                                Approval of this prospectus
                                                                                 constitutes authority to
                                                                                 execute an interim lease for
                                                                                 all tenants, if necessary,
                                                                                 prior to the execution of the
                                                                                 new lease.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services (Administrator) shall
                                                                                 require that the procurement
                                                                                 includes minimum performance
                                                                                 requirements requiring energy
                                                                                 efficiency and the use of
                                                                                 renewable energy.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator shall require
                                                                                 that the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement is identical to the
                                                                                 delineated area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, except that, if the
                                                                                 Administrator determines that
                                                                                 the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement should not be
                                                                                 identical to the delineated
                                                                                 area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, the Administrator
                                                                                 shall provide an explanatory
                                                                                 statement to the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives prior to
                                                                                 exercising any lease authority
                                                                                 provided in the resolution.                                                                                Provided further, within six
                                                                                 months of the date of adoption
                                                                                 of the resolution and prior to
                                                                                 exercising the authority
                                                                                 granted in the resolution, the
                                                                                 Administrator shall provide to
                                                                                 the Committee on Transportation
                                                                                 and Infrastructure of the House
                                                                                 of Representatives a draft
                                                                                 housing plan, including Federal
                                                                                 Government ownership options,
                                                                                 for the NTSB in the National
                                                                                 Capital Region.                                                                                Provided further, within two
                                                                                 years of the date of the
                                                                                 resolution, the Administrator
                                                                                 shall provide to the Committee
                                                                                 on Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives a final housing
                                                                                 plan, approved by the Office of
                                                                                 Management and Budget, that
                                                                                 provides Federal Government
                                                                                 ownership for the NTSB in the
                                                                                 National Capital Region.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.
November 5, 2009......................  Portland, OR..........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, that, pursuant
                                                                                 to 40 U.S.C. Sec.  3307,
                                                                                 appropriations are authorized
                                                                                 for a replacement lease of up
                                                                                 to 126,500 rentable square feet
                                                                                 for the U.S. Army Corps of
                                                                                 Engineers, Portland District
                                                                                 Office, currently located at
                                                                                 Robert Duncan Plaza, 333 SW
                                                                                 First Avenue, Portland, OR, at
                                                                                 a proposed total annual cost of
                                                                                 $5,060,000 for a lease term of
                                                                                 up to 15 years, a prospectus
                                                                                 for which is attached to, and
                                                                                 included in, this resolution.                                                                                Approval of this prospectus
                                                                                 constitutes authority to
                                                                                 execute an interim lease for
                                                                                 all tenants, if necessary,
                                                                                 prior to the execution of the
                                                                                 new lease.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services (Administrator) shall
                                                                                 require that the procurement
                                                                                 includes minimum performance
                                                                                 requirements requiring energy
                                                                                 efficiency and the use of
                                                                                 renewable energy.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator shall require
                                                                                 that the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement is identical to the
                                                                                 delineated area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, except that, if the
                                                                                 Administrator determines that
                                                                                 the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement should not be
                                                                                 identical to the delineated
                                                                                 area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, the Administrator
                                                                                 shall provide an explanatory
                                                                                 statement to the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives prior to
                                                                                 exercising any lease authority
                                                                                 provided in this resolution.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.November 5, 2009......................  Philadelphia, PA......................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, that, pursuant
                                                                                 to 40 U.S.C. Sec.  3307,
                                                                                 appropriations are authorized
                                                                                 for a superseding lease and
                                                                                 space alteration of up to
                                                                                 345,000 rentable square feet
                                                                                 for the National Archives and
                                                                                 Records Administration,
                                                                                 currently located at 14700
                                                                                 Townsend Road, Philadelphia,
                                                                                 PA, at a proposed total annual
                                                                                 cost of $3,795,000 for a lease
                                                                                 term of up to 20 years, a
                                                                                 prospectus for which is
                                                                                 attached to, and included in,
                                                                                 this resolution.                                                                                Approval of this prospectus
                                                                                 constitutes authority to
                                                                                 execute an interim lease for
                                                                                 all tenants, if necessary,
                                                                                 prior to the execution of the
                                                                                 new lease.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services (Administrator) shall
                                                                                 require that the procurement
                                                                                 includes minimum performance
                                                                                 requirements requiring energy
                                                                                 efficiency and the use of
                                                                                 renewable energy.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator shall require
                                                                                 that the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement is identical to the
                                                                                 delineated area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, except that, if the
                                                                                 Administrator determines that
                                                                                 the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement should not be
                                                                                 identical to the delineated
                                                                                 area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, the Administrator
                                                                                 shall provide an explanatory
                                                                                 statement to the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives prior to
                                                                                 exercising any lease authority
                                                                                 provided in this resolution.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.November 5, 2009......................  Washington, DC........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, that, pursuant
                                                                                 to 40 U.S.C. Sec.  3307,
                                                                                 appropriations are authorized
                                                                                 for a replacement lease of up
                                                                                 to 100,500 rentable square feet
                                                                                 for the Internal Revenue
                                                                                 Service, currently located at
                                                                                 1750 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW,
                                                                                 Washington, D.C., at a proposed
                                                                                 total annual cost of $4,924,500
                                                                                 for a lease term of up to 10
                                                                                 years, a prospectus for which
                                                                                 is attached to, and included
                                                                                 in, this resolution.                                                                                Approval of this prospectus
                                                                                 constitutes authority to
                                                                                 execute an interim lease for
                                                                                 all tenants, if necessary,
                                                                                 prior to the execution of the
                                                                                 new lease.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services (Administrator) shall
                                                                                 require that the procurement
                                                                                 includes minimum performance
                                                                                 requirements requiring energy
                                                                                 efficiency and the use of
                                                                                 renewable energy.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator shall require
                                                                                 that the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement is identical to the
                                                                                 delineated area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, except that, if the
                                                                                 Administrator determines that
                                                                                 the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement should not be
                                                                                 identical to the delineated
                                                                                 area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, the Administrator
                                                                                 shall provide an explanatory
                                                                                 statement to the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives prior to
                                                                                 exercising any lease authority
                                                                                 provided in this resolution.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.November 5, 2009......................  Washington, DC........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, that, pursuant
                                                                                 to 40 U.S.C. Sec.  3307,
                                                                                 appropriations are authorized
                                                                                 for a replacement lease of up
                                                                                 to 254,267 rentable square feet
                                                                                 for the Small Business
                                                                                 Administration (SBA), currently
                                                                                 located at 409 Third Street,
                                                                                 SW, Washington, D.C., at a
                                                                                 proposed total annual cost of
                                                                                 $12,459,083 for a lease term of
                                                                                 up to 10 years, a prospectus
                                                                                 for which is attached to, and
                                                                                 included in, this resolution.                                                                                Approval of this prospectus
                                                                                 constitutes authority to
                                                                                 execute an interim lease for
                                                                                 all tenants, if necessary,
                                                                                 prior to the execution of the
                                                                                 new lease.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services (Administrator) shall
                                                                                 require that the procurement
                                                                                 includes minimum performance
                                                                                 requirements requiring energy
                                                                                 efficiency and the use of
                                                                                 renewable energy.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator shall require
                                                                                 that the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement is identical to the
                                                                                 delineated area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, except that, if the
                                                                                 Administrator determines that
                                                                                 the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement should not be
                                                                                 identical to the delineated
                                                                                 area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, the Administrator
                                                                                 shall provide an explanatory
                                                                                 statement to the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives prior to
                                                                                 exercising any lease authority
                                                                                 provided in this resolution.                                                                                Provided further, within six
                                                                                 months of the date of the
                                                                                 resolution and prior to
                                                                                 exercising the authority
                                                                                 granted in the resolution, the
                                                                                 Administrator shall provide to
                                                                                 the Committee on Transportation
                                                                                 and Infrastructure of the House
                                                                                 of Representatives a draft
                                                                                 housing plan, including Federal
                                                                                 Government ownership options,
                                                                                 for the SBA in the National
                                                                                 Capital Region.                                                                                Provided further, within two
                                                                                 years of the date of the
                                                                                 resolution, the Administrator
                                                                                 shall provide to the Committee
                                                                                 on Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives a final housing
                                                                                 plan, approved by the Office of
                                                                                 Management and Budget, that
                                                                                 provides Federal Government
                                                                                 ownership for the SBA in the
                                                                                 National Capital Region.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.November 5, 2009......................  Suburban MD...........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, that, pursuant
                                                                                 to 40 U.S.C. Sec.  3307,
                                                                                 appropriations are authorized
                                                                                 for a succeeding lease of up to
                                                                                 159,731 rentable square feet
                                                                                 for the National Institute of
                                                                                 Allergy and Infectious Disease,
                                                                                 currently located 6700
                                                                                 Rockledge Drive, Bethesda, MD,
                                                                                 at a proposed total annual cost
                                                                                 of $5,430,854 for a lease term
                                                                                 of up to five years, a
                                                                                 prospectus for which is
                                                                                 attached to, and included in,
                                                                                 this resolution.                                                                                Approval of this prospectus
                                                                                 constitutes authority to
                                                                                 execute an interim lease for
                                                                                 all tenants, if necessary,
                                                                                 prior to the execution of the
                                                                                 new lease.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services (Administrator) shall
                                                                                 require that the procurement
                                                                                 includes minimum performance
                                                                                 requirements requiring energy
                                                                                 efficiency and the use of
                                                                                 renewable energy.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator shall require
                                                                                 that the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement is identical to the
                                                                                 delineated area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, except that, if the
                                                                                 Administrator determines that
                                                                                 the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement should not be
                                                                                 identical to the delineated
                                                                                 area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, the Administrator
                                                                                 shall provide an explanatory
                                                                                 statement to the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives prior to
                                                                                 exercising any lease authority
                                                                                 provided in this resolution.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.November 5, 2009......................  Arlington, VA.........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, that, pursuant
                                                                                 to 40 U.S.C. Sec.  3307,
                                                                                 appropriations are authorized
                                                                                 for a succeeding lease of up to
                                                                                 102,238 rentable square feet
                                                                                 for the Federal Emergency
                                                                                 Management Agency, currently
                                                                                 located at 1800 South Bell
                                                                                 Street, Arlington, VA, at a
                                                                                 proposed total annual cost of
                                                                                 $3,885,044 for a lease term of
                                                                                 up to 10 years, a prospectus
                                                                                 for which is attached to, and
                                                                                 included in, this resolution.                                                                                Approval of this prospectus
                                                                                 constitutes authority to
                                                                                 execute an interim lease for
                                                                                 all tenants, if necessary,
                                                                                 prior to the execution of the
                                                                                 new lease.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services (Administrator) shall
                                                                                 require that the procurement
                                                                                 includes minimum performance
                                                                                 requirements requiring energy
                                                                                 efficiency and the use of
                                                                                 renewable energy.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator shall require
                                                                                 that the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement is identical to the
                                                                                 delineated area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, except that, if the
                                                                                 Administrator determines that
                                                                                 the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement should not be
                                                                                 identical to the delineated
                                                                                 area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, the Administrator
                                                                                 shall provide an explanatory
                                                                                 statement to the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives prior to
                                                                                 exercising any lease authority
                                                                                 provided in this resolution.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.November 5, 2009......................  Northern VA...........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, that, pursuant
                                                                                 to 40 U.S.C. Sec.  3307,
                                                                                 appropriations are authorized
                                                                                 for a succeeding lease of up to
                                                                                 312,976 rentable square feet
                                                                                 for the Department of Defense,
                                                                                 currently located at the
                                                                                 Hoffman I building, 2461
                                                                                 Eisenhower Avenue, Alexandria,
                                                                                 VA, at a proposed total annual
                                                                                 cost of $10,641,184 for a lease
                                                                                 term of up to five years, a
                                                                                 prospectus for which is
                                                                                 attached to, and included in,
                                                                                 this resolution.                                                                                Approval of this prospectus
                                                                                 constitutes authority to
                                                                                 execute an interim lease for
                                                                                 all tenants, if necessary,
                                                                                 prior to the execution of the
                                                                                 new lease.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services (Administrator) shall
                                                                                 require that the procurement
                                                                                 includes minimum performance
                                                                                 requirements requiring energy
                                                                                 efficiency and the use of
                                                                                 renewable energy.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator shall require
                                                                                 that the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement is identical to the
                                                                                 delineated area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, except that, if the
                                                                                 Administrator determines that
                                                                                 the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement should not be
                                                                                 identical to the delineated
                                                                                 area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, the Administrator
                                                                                 shall provide an explanatory
                                                                                 statement to the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives prior to
                                                                                 exercising any lease authority
                                                                                 provided in this resolution.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.November 5, 2009......................  Northern VA...........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, that, pursuant
                                                                                 to 40 U.S.C. Sec.  3307,
                                                                                 appropriations are authorized
                                                                                 for a succeeding lease of up to
                                                                                 204,783 rentable square feet
                                                                                 for the Department of Defense,
                                                                                 currently located at the
                                                                                 Hoffman II building, 200
                                                                                 Stovall Street, Alexandria, VA,
                                                                                 at a proposed total annual cost
                                                                                 of $6,962,622 for a lease term
                                                                                 of up to five years, a
                                                                                 prospectus for which is
                                                                                 attached to, and included in,
                                                                                 this resolution.                                                                                Approval of this prospectus
                                                                                 constitutes authority to
                                                                                 execute an interim lease for
                                                                                 all tenants, if necessary,
                                                                                 prior to the execution of the
                                                                                 new lease.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services (Administrator) shall
                                                                                 require that the procurement
                                                                                 includes minimum performance
                                                                                 requirements requiring energy
                                                                                 efficiency and the use of
                                                                                 renewable energy.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator shall require
                                                                                 that the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement is identical to the
                                                                                 delineated area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, except that, if the
                                                                                 Administrator determines that
                                                                                 the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement should not be
                                                                                 identical to the delineated
                                                                                 area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, the Administrator
                                                                                 shall provide an explanatory
                                                                                 statement to the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives prior to
                                                                                 exercising any lease authority
                                                                                 provided in this resolution.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.November 5, 2009......................  Fort Worth, TX........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, that, pursuant
                                                                                 to 40 U.S.C. Sec.  3307,
                                                                                 appropriations are authorized
                                                                                 for a replacement/expansion
                                                                                 lease of up to 530,039 rentable
                                                                                 square feet for the Federal
                                                                                 Aviation Administration,
                                                                                 currently located at the 2601
                                                                                 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, TX,
                                                                                 at a proposed total annual cost
                                                                                 of $18,551,365 for a lease term
                                                                                 of up to 20 years, a prospectus
                                                                                 for which is attached to, and
                                                                                 included in, this resolution.                                                                                Approval of this prospectus
                                                                                 constitutes authority to
                                                                                 execute an interim lease for
                                                                                 all tenants, if necessary,
                                                                                 prior to the execution of the
                                                                                 new lease.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services (Administrator) shall
                                                                                 require that the procurement
                                                                                 includes minimum performance
                                                                                 requirements requiring energy
                                                                                 efficiency and the use of
                                                                                 renewable energy.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator shall require
                                                                                 that the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement is identical to the
                                                                                 delineated area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, except that, if the
                                                                                 Administrator determines that
                                                                                 the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement should not be
                                                                                 identical to the delineated
                                                                                 area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, the Administrator
                                                                                 shall provide an explanatory
                                                                                 statement to the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives prior to
                                                                                 exercising any lease authority
                                                                                 provided in this resolution.                                                                                Provided further, that any lease
                                                                                 agreement entered into pursuant
                                                                                 to this resolution shall
                                                                                 include an option to purchase
                                                                                 and obtain fee title to the
                                                                                 facility leased to the Federal
                                                                                 Government. The lease agreement
                                                                                 shall provide for the exercise
                                                                                 of the purchase option on such
                                                                                 dates prior to the expiration
                                                                                 of the leasehold interest and
                                                                                 under such terms and conditions
                                                                                 deemed by the Administrator to
                                                                                 be in the best interest of the
                                                                                 Federal Government.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.November 5, 2009......................  Renton Area, WA.......................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, that, pursuant
                                                                                 to 40 U.S.C. Sec.  3307,
                                                                                 appropriations are authorized
                                                                                 for a new lease of up to
                                                                                 518,865 rentable square feet
                                                                                 for the Federal Aviation
                                                                                 Administration, currently
                                                                                 located in multiple locations
                                                                                 in the Renton, WA area, at a
                                                                                 proposed total annual cost of
                                                                                 $24,386,655 for a lease term of
                                                                                 up to 20 years, a prospectus
                                                                                 for which is attached to, and
                                                                                 included in, this resolution.                                                                                Approval of this prospectus
                                                                                 constitutes authority to
                                                                                 execute an interim lease for
                                                                                 all tenants, if necessary,
                                                                                 prior to the execution of the
                                                                                 new lease.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services (Administrator) shall
                                                                                 require that the procurement
                                                                                 includes minimum performance
                                                                                 requirements requiring energy
                                                                                 efficiency and the use of
                                                                                 renewable energy.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator shall require
                                                                                 that the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement is identical to the
                                                                                 delineated area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, except that, if the
                                                                                 Administrator determines that
                                                                                 the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement should not be
                                                                                 identical to the delineated
                                                                                 area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, the Administrator
                                                                                 shall provide an explanatory
                                                                                 statement to the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives prior to
                                                                                 exercising any lease authority
                                                                                 provided in this resolution.                                                                                Provided further, that any lease
                                                                                 agreement entered into pursuant
                                                                                 to this resolution shall
                                                                                 include an option to purchase
                                                                                 and obtain fee title to the
                                                                                 facility leased to the Federal
                                                                                 Government. The lease agreement
                                                                                 shall provide for the exercise
                                                                                 of the purchase option on such
                                                                                 dates prior to the expiration
                                                                                 of the leasehold interest and
                                                                                 under such terms and conditions
                                                                                 deemed by the Administrator to
                                                                                 be in the best interest of the
                                                                                 Federal Government.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.November 5, 2009......................  Washington, DC........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, that, pursuant
                                                                                 to 40 U.S.C. Sec.  3307,
                                                                                 appropriations are authorized
                                                                                 for a replacement lease of up
                                                                                 to 136,787 rentable square feet
                                                                                 for the U.S. Department of
                                                                                 Agriculture (USDA), currently
                                                                                 located at 800 9th Street, SW,
                                                                                 Washington, D.C., at a proposed
                                                                                 total annual cost of $6,702,563
                                                                                 for a lease term of up to 10
                                                                                 years, a prospectus for which
                                                                                 is attached to, and included
                                                                                 in, this resolution.                                                                                Approval of this prospectus
                                                                                 constitutes authority to
                                                                                 execute an interim lease for
                                                                                 all tenants, if necessary,
                                                                                 prior to the execution of the
                                                                                 new lease.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services (Administrator) shall
                                                                                 require that the procurement
                                                                                 includes minimum performance
                                                                                 requirements requiring energy
                                                                                 efficiency and the use of
                                                                                 renewable energy.                                                                                Provided further, prior to
                                                                                 exercising the authority
                                                                                 granted in the resolution, the
                                                                                 Administrator shall provide to
                                                                                 the Committee on Transportation
                                                                                 and Infrastructure of the House
                                                                                 of Representatives a draft
                                                                                 housing plan, including Federal
                                                                                 Government ownership options,
                                                                                 for the USDA in the National
                                                                                 Capital Region.                                                                                Provided further, within 60 days
                                                                                 of the date of the resolution,
                                                                                 the Administrator shall provide
                                                                                 to the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives a final housing
                                                                                 plan, approved by the Office of
                                                                                 Management and Budget, that
                                                                                 provides Federal Government
                                                                                 ownership for the USDA in the
                                                                                 National Capital Region.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator shall require
                                                                                 that the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement is identical to the
                                                                                 delineated area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, except that, if the
                                                                                 Administrator determines that
                                                                                 the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement should not be
                                                                                 identical to the delineated
                                                                                 area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, the Administrator
                                                                                 shall provide an explanatory
                                                                                 statement to the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives prior to
                                                                                 exercising any lease authority
                                                                                 provided in this resolution.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.
November 5, 2009......................  Seattle, WA...........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, that, pursuant
                                                                                 to 40 U.S.C. Sec.  3307,
                                                                                 appropriations are authorized
                                                                                 for a consolidation lease of up
                                                                                 to 85,608 rentable square feet
                                                                                 for the Department of Labor,
                                                                                 currently located at 1111 Third
                                                                                 Avenue, and 719 Second Avenue,
                                                                                 Seattle, WA, at a proposed
                                                                                 total annual cost of $4,109,184
                                                                                 for a lease term of up to 15
                                                                                 years, a prospectus for which
                                                                                 is attached to, and included
                                                                                 in, this resolution.                                                                                Approval of this prospectus
                                                                                 constitutes authority to
                                                                                 execute an interim lease for
                                                                                 all tenants, if necessary,
                                                                                 prior to the execution of the
                                                                                 new lease.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services (Administrator) shall
                                                                                 require that the procurement
                                                                                 includes minimum performance
                                                                                 requirements requiring energy
                                                                                 efficiency and the use of
                                                                                 renewable energy.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator shall require
                                                                                 that the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement is identical to the
                                                                                 delineated area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, except that, if the
                                                                                 Administrator determines that
                                                                                 the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement should not be
                                                                                 identical to the delineated
                                                                                 area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, the Administrator
                                                                                 shall provide an explanatory
                                                                                 statement to the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives prior to
                                                                                 exercising any lease authority
                                                                                 provided in this resolution.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.November 5, 2009......................  Des Plaines, IL.......................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, that, pursuant
                                                                                 to 40 U.S.C. Sec.  3307,
                                                                                 appropriations are authorized
                                                                                 for an extension/expansion
                                                                                 lease of up to 210,000 rentable
                                                                                 square feet for the Great Lakes
                                                                                 Regional Office of the Federal
                                                                                 Aviation Administration
                                                                                 currently located at 2300 Devon
                                                                                 Avenue in Des Plaines, IL, at a
                                                                                 proposed total annual cost of
                                                                                 $4,979,100 for a lease term of
                                                                                 up to 10 years, a prospectus
                                                                                 for which is attached to, and
                                                                                 included in, this resolution.                                                                                Approval of this prospectus
                                                                                 constitutes authority to
                                                                                 execute an interim lease for
                                                                                 all tenants, if necessary,
                                                                                 prior to the execution of the
                                                                                 new lease.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services (Administrator) shall
                                                                                 require that the procurement
                                                                                 includes minimum performance
                                                                                 requirements requiring energy
                                                                                 efficiency and the use of
                                                                                 renewable energy.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator shall require
                                                                                 that the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement is identical to the
                                                                                 delineated area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, except that, if the
                                                                                 Administrator determines that
                                                                                 the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement should not be
                                                                                 identical to the delineated
                                                                                 area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, the Administrator
                                                                                 shall provide an explanatory
                                                                                 statement to the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives prior to
                                                                                 exercising any lease authority
                                                                                 provided in this resolution.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.July 1, 2010..........................  Washington, DC........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives, that,
                                                                                 pursuant to 40 U.S.C. Sec.
                                                                                 3307, appropriations are
                                                                                 authorized for a replacement
                                                                                 lease of up to 605,000 rentable
                                                                                 square feet for the National
                                                                                 Aeronautics and Space
                                                                                 Administration (NASA),
                                                                                 currently located in the 2
                                                                                 Independence Square Building at
                                                                                 300 E Street, SW, in
                                                                                 Washington, D.C., at a proposed
                                                                                 total annual cost of
                                                                                 $29,645,000 for a lease term of
                                                                                 up to 15 years, a prospectus
                                                                                 for which is attached to and
                                                                                 included in this resolution.                                                                                Approval of this prospectus
                                                                                 constitutes authority to
                                                                                 execute an interim lease for
                                                                                 all tenants, if necessary,
                                                                                 prior to the execution of the
                                                                                 new lease.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall require that the
                                                                                 procurement includes minimum
                                                                                 performance requirements
                                                                                 requiring energy efficiency and
                                                                                 the use of renewable energy.                                                                                Provided further, that within
                                                                                 two years of the adoption of
                                                                                 this resolution, the
                                                                                 Administrator shall provide the
                                                                                 Committee on Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, with a final
                                                                                 housing plan approved by the
                                                                                 Office of Management and Budget
                                                                                 that provides for Federal
                                                                                 Government ownership of the
                                                                                 NASA headquarters functions in
                                                                                 the National Capital Region.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator shall require
                                                                                 that the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement is identical to the
                                                                                 delineated area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, except that, if the
                                                                                 Administrator determines that
                                                                                 the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement should not be
                                                                                 identical to the delineated
                                                                                 area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, the Administrator
                                                                                 shall provide an explanatory
                                                                                 statement to the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives prior to
                                                                                 exercising any lease authority
                                                                                 provided in this resolution.July 1, 2010..........................  Washington, DC........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives, that,
                                                                                 pursuant to 40 U.S.C. Sec.
                                                                                 3307, appropriations are
                                                                                 authorized for a new lease of
                                                                                 up to 70,000 rentable square
                                                                                 feet for the Department of
                                                                                 Treasury, currently located in
                                                                                 the Treasury Annex, 501 Madison
                                                                                 Place, NW, in Washington, D.C.,
                                                                                 at a proposed total annual cost
                                                                                 of $3,430,000 for a lease term
                                                                                 of up to 10 years, a prospectus
                                                                                 for which is attached to and
                                                                                 included in this resolution.                                                                                Approval of this prospectus
                                                                                 constitutes authority to
                                                                                 execute an interim lease for
                                                                                 all tenants, if necessary,
                                                                                 prior to the execution of the
                                                                                 new lease.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall require that the
                                                                                 procurement includes minimum
                                                                                 performance requirements
                                                                                 requiring energy efficiency and
                                                                                 the use of renewable energy.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator shall require
                                                                                 that the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement is identical to the
                                                                                 delineated area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, except that, if the
                                                                                 Administrator determines that
                                                                                 the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement should not be
                                                                                 identical to the delineated
                                                                                 area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, the Administrator
                                                                                 shall provide an explanatory
                                                                                 statement to the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives prior to
                                                                                 exercising any lease authority
                                                                                 provided in this resolution.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.July 1, 2010..........................  Suburban Maryland.....................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives, that,
                                                                                 pursuant to 40 U.S.C. Sec.
                                                                                 3307, appropriations are
                                                                                 authorized for a lease
                                                                                 consolidation of up to 491,000
                                                                                 rentable square feet for the
                                                                                 National Institutes of Health,
                                                                                 National Institute of Allergy
                                                                                 and Infectious Diseases,
                                                                                 currently located in multiple
                                                                                 buildings in the Rock Springs
                                                                                 Office Park in Bethesda, MD, at
                                                                                 a proposed total annual cost of
                                                                                 $16,694,000 for a lease term of
                                                                                 up to 15 years, a prospectus
                                                                                 for which is attached to and
                                                                                 included in this resolution.                                                                                Approval of this prospectus
                                                                                 constitutes authority to
                                                                                 execute an interim lease for
                                                                                 all tenants, if necessary,
                                                                                 prior to the execution of the
                                                                                 new lease.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall require that the
                                                                                 procurement includes minimum
                                                                                 performance requirements
                                                                                 requiring energy efficiency and
                                                                                 the use of renewable energy.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator shall require
                                                                                 that the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement is identical to the
                                                                                 delineated area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, except that, if the
                                                                                 Administrator determines that
                                                                                 the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement should not be
                                                                                 identical to the delineated
                                                                                 area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, the Administrator
                                                                                 shall provide an explanatory
                                                                                 statement to the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives prior to
                                                                                 exercising any lease authority
                                                                                 provided in this resolution.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.July 1, 2010..........................  Suburban Maryland.....................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives, that,
                                                                                 pursuant to 40 U.S.C. Sec.
                                                                                 3307, appropriations are
                                                                                 authorized for a replacement
                                                                                 lease of up to 986,000 rentable
                                                                                 square feet for the National
                                                                                 Oceanic and Atmospheric
                                                                                 Administration (NOAA),
                                                                                 currently located in Silver
                                                                                 Spring Metro Center at 1315
                                                                                 East West Hwy, 1325 East West
                                                                                 Hwy, and 1305 East West Hwy,
                                                                                 Silver Spring, MD, at a
                                                                                 proposed total annual cost of
                                                                                 $33,524,000 for a lease term of
                                                                                 up to 15 years, a prospectus
                                                                                 for which is attached to and
                                                                                 included in this resolution.                                                                                Approval of this prospectus
                                                                                 constitutes authority to
                                                                                 execute interim leases for all
                                                                                 tenants, if necessary, prior to
                                                                                 the execution of the new lease.                                                                                Provided. that the General
                                                                                 Services Administration shall
                                                                                 extend current leases as
                                                                                 necessary to ensure full
                                                                                 competition, including
                                                                                 proposals for new lease-
                                                                                 construction, for the
                                                                                 replacement lease.                                                                                Provided further, that, in the
                                                                                 event that ``best value''
                                                                                 procedures are employed in the
                                                                                 replacement lease procurement,
                                                                                 and the source selection plan
                                                                                 is structured such that
                                                                                 technical factors in aggregate
                                                                                 are more important than price,
                                                                                 that the Administrator provide
                                                                                 a detailed justification for
                                                                                 this procurement structure to
                                                                                 the Committee on Transportation
                                                                                 and Infrastructure of the House
                                                                                 of Representatives, prior to
                                                                                 the inception of the
                                                                                 procurement.                                                                                Provided further, that to the
                                                                                 maximum extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall require that the
                                                                                 procurement includes minimum
                                                                                 performance requirements
                                                                                 requiring energy efficiency and
                                                                                 the use of renewable energy.                                                                                Provided further, that within
                                                                                 two years of the adoption of
                                                                                 this resolution, the
                                                                                 Administrator shall provide the
                                                                                 Committee on Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, with a final
                                                                                 housing plan approved by the
                                                                                 Office of Management and Budget
                                                                                 that provides for Federal
                                                                                 Government ownership of the
                                                                                 NOAA headquarters functions in
                                                                                 the National Capital Region.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator shall require
                                                                                 that the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement is identical to the
                                                                                 delineated area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, except that, if the
                                                                                 Administrator determines that
                                                                                 the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement should not be
                                                                                 identical to the delineated
                                                                                 area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, the Administrator
                                                                                 shall provide an explanatory
                                                                                 statement to the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives prior to
                                                                                 exercising any lease authority
                                                                                 provided in this resolution.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.July 1, 2010..........................  Northern Virginia.....................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives, that,
                                                                                 pursuant to 40 U.S.C. Sec.
                                                                                 3307, appropriations are
                                                                                 authorized for a new lease of
                                                                                 up to 751,000 rentable square
                                                                                 feet for the Department of
                                                                                 Defense Medical Command
                                                                                 Headquarters, currently located
                                                                                 at multiple leased and
                                                                                 government owned locations
                                                                                 throughout the Washington
                                                                                 Metropolitan region, at a
                                                                                 proposed total annual cost of
                                                                                 $30,040,000 for a lease term of
                                                                                 up to 15 years, a prospectus
                                                                                 for which is attached to and
                                                                                 included in this resolution.                                                                                Approval of this prospectus
                                                                                 constitutes authority to
                                                                                 execute interim leases for all
                                                                                 tenants, if necessary, prior to
                                                                                 the execution of the new lease.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall require that the
                                                                                 procurement includes minimum
                                                                                 performance requirements
                                                                                 requiring energy efficiency and
                                                                                 the use of renewable energy.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator shall require
                                                                                 that the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement is identical to the
                                                                                 delineated area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, except that, if the
                                                                                 Administrator determines that
                                                                                 the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement should not be
                                                                                 identical to the delineated
                                                                                 area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, the Administrator
                                                                                 shall provide an explanatory
                                                                                 statement to the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives prior to
                                                                                 exercising any lease authority
                                                                                 provided in this resolution.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator is authorized to
                                                                                 apply only the security
                                                                                 standards promulgated by the
                                                                                 Interagency Security Committee
                                                                                 (ISC) to this lease
                                                                                 procurement, given that the
                                                                                 space will not be housed on a
                                                                                 military installation, unless
                                                                                 the Administrator determines
                                                                                 that to comply only with the
                                                                                 ISC criteria would jeopardize
                                                                                 compliance with the Base
                                                                                 Realignment and Closure
                                                                                 requirement that the medical
                                                                                 command headquarters be
                                                                                 relocated by September 15,
                                                                                 2011.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.July 1, 2010..........................  Northern Virginia.....................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives, that,
                                                                                 pursuant to 40 U.S.C. Sec.
                                                                                 3307, appropriations are
                                                                                 authorized for short-term lease
                                                                                 extensions of up to 402,822
                                                                                 rentable square feet for the
                                                                                 Department of Defense currently
                                                                                 located at the Skyline Place,
                                                                                 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls
                                                                                 Church, VA, at a proposed total
                                                                                 annual cost of $15,307,236 for
                                                                                 a lease term of up to two
                                                                                 years, a prospectus for which
                                                                                 is attached to and included in
                                                                                 this resolution.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall require that the
                                                                                 procurement includes minimum
                                                                                 performance requirements
                                                                                 requiring energy efficiency and
                                                                                 the use of renewable energy.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.July 1, 2010..........................  Northern Virginia.....................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives, that,
                                                                                 pursuant to 40 U.S.C. Sec.
                                                                                 3307, appropriations are
                                                                                 authorized for a replacement
                                                                                 lease of up to 118,000 rentable
                                                                                 square feet for the Department
                                                                                 of State currently located in
                                                                                 the Architects Building at 1400
                                                                                 Wilson Boulevard in Arlington,
                                                                                 VA, at a proposed total annual
                                                                                 cost of $4,484,000 for a lease
                                                                                 term of up to 15 years, a
                                                                                 prospectus for which is
                                                                                 attached to and included in
                                                                                 this resolution.                                                                                Approval of this prospectus
                                                                                 constitutes authority to
                                                                                 execute an interim lease for
                                                                                 all tenants, if necessary,
                                                                                 prior to the execution of the
                                                                                 new lease.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall require that the
                                                                                 procurement includes minimum
                                                                                 performance requirements
                                                                                 requiring energy efficiency and
                                                                                 the use of renewable energy.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator shall require
                                                                                 that the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement is identical to the
                                                                                 delineated area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, except that, if the
                                                                                 Administrator determines that
                                                                                 the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement should not be
                                                                                 identical to the delineated
                                                                                 area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, the Administrator
                                                                                 shall provide an explanatory
                                                                                 statement to the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives prior to
                                                                                 exercising any lease authority
                                                                                 provided in this resolution.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.July 1, 2010..........................  Northern Virginia.....................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives, that,
                                                                                 pursuant to 40 U.S.C. Sec.
                                                                                 3307, appropriations are
                                                                                 authorized for a replacement/
                                                                                 expansion lease of up to
                                                                                 243,000 rentable square feet
                                                                                 for the Department of State
                                                                                 Office of the Coordinator for
                                                                                 Reconstruction and
                                                                                 Stabilization Division and
                                                                                 Bureau of Diplomatic Security
                                                                                 currently located in the
                                                                                 Pomponio Plaza East building at
                                                                                 1800 North Kent Street,
                                                                                 Arlington, VA, at a proposed
                                                                                 total annual cost of $9,234,000
                                                                                 for a lease term of up to 15
                                                                                 years, a prospectus for which
                                                                                 is attached to and included in
                                                                                 this resolution.                                                                                Approval of this prospectus
                                                                                 constitutes authority to
                                                                                 execute an interim lease for
                                                                                 all tenants, if necessary,
                                                                                 prior to the execution of the
                                                                                 new lease.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall require that the
                                                                                 procurement includes minimum
                                                                                 performance requirements
                                                                                 requiring energy efficiency and
                                                                                 the use of renewable energy.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator shall require
                                                                                 that the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement is identical to the
                                                                                 delineated area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, except that, if the
                                                                                 Administrator determines that
                                                                                 the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement should not be
                                                                                 identical to the delineated
                                                                                 area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, the Administrator
                                                                                 shall provide an explanatory
                                                                                 statement to the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives prior to
                                                                                 exercising any lease authority
                                                                                 provided in this resolution.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.July 1, 2010..........................  Atlanta, GA...........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives, that,
                                                                                 pursuant to 40 U.S.C. Sec.
                                                                                 3307, appropriations are
                                                                                 authorized for a new lease of
                                                                                 up to 165,000 rentable square
                                                                                 feet for the Department of
                                                                                 Housing and Urban Development
                                                                                 currently located at Five
                                                                                 Points Plaza, 40 Marietta
                                                                                 Street, and the Richard B.
                                                                                 Russell Federal Building, 75
                                                                                 Spring Street, in Atlanta, GA,
                                                                                 at a proposed total annual cost
                                                                                 of $5,445,000 for a lease term
                                                                                 of up to 15 years, a prospectus
                                                                                 for which is attached to and
                                                                                 included in this resolution.                                                                                Approval of this prospectus
                                                                                 constitutes authority to
                                                                                 execute an interim lease for
                                                                                 all tenants, if necessary,
                                                                                 prior to the execution of the
                                                                                 new lease.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall require that the
                                                                                 procurement includes minimum
                                                                                 performance requirements
                                                                                 requiring energy efficiency and
                                                                                 the use of renewable energy.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator shall require
                                                                                 that the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement is identical to the
                                                                                 delineated area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, except that, if the
                                                                                 Administrator determines that
                                                                                 the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement should not be
                                                                                 identical to the delineated
                                                                                 area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, the Administrator
                                                                                 shall provide an explanatory
                                                                                 statement to the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives prior to
                                                                                 exercising any lease authority
                                                                                 provided in this resolution.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.July 1, 2010..........................  Brooklyn, NY..........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives, that,
                                                                                 pursuant to 40 U.S.C. Sec.
                                                                                 3307, appropriations are
                                                                                 authorized for a replacement
                                                                                 lease of up to 120,000 rentable
                                                                                 square feet for the Internal
                                                                                 Revenue Service, currently
                                                                                 located at 10 MetroTech Center,
                                                                                 Brooklyn, NY, at a proposed
                                                                                 total annual cost of $6,600,000
                                                                                 for a lease term of up to 10
                                                                                 years, a prospectus for which
                                                                                 is attached to and included in
                                                                                 this resolution.                                                                                Approval of this prospectus
                                                                                 constitutes authority to
                                                                                 execute an interim lease for
                                                                                 all tenants, if necessary,
                                                                                 prior to the execution of the
                                                                                 new lease.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall require that the
                                                                                 procurement includes minimum
                                                                                 performance requirements
                                                                                 requiring energy efficiency and
                                                                                 the use of renewable energy.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator shall require
                                                                                 that the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement is identical to the
                                                                                 delineated area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, except that, if the
                                                                                 Administrator determines that
                                                                                 the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement should not be
                                                                                 identical to the delineated
                                                                                 area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, the Administrator
                                                                                 shall provide an explanatory
                                                                                 statement to the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives prior to
                                                                                 exercising any lease authority
                                                                                 provided in this resolution.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.July 1, 2010..........................  Guayabo, PR...........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives, that,
                                                                                 pursuant to 40 U.S.C. Sec.
                                                                                 3307, appropriations are
                                                                                 authorized to exercise a
                                                                                 renewal option of up to 111,541
                                                                                 rentable square feet for the
                                                                                 Internal Revenue Service,
                                                                                 currently located in the San
                                                                                 Patricio Office Building, 7
                                                                                 Tabonuco Street, Guaynabo, PR,
                                                                                 at a proposed total annual cost
                                                                                 of $4,433,754 for a lease term
                                                                                 of up to five years, a
                                                                                 prospectus for which is
                                                                                 attached to and included in
                                                                                 this resolution.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall require that the
                                                                                 procurement includes minimum
                                                                                 performance requirements
                                                                                 requiring energy efficiency and
                                                                                 the use of renewable energy.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.July 1, 2010..........................  National Capital Region...............  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives, that,
                                                                                 pursuant to 40 U.S.C. Sec.
                                                                                 3307, appropriations are
                                                                                 authorized for new leases of up
                                                                                 to a total of 1,136,000
                                                                                 rentable square feet for the
                                                                                 Department of Homeland Security
                                                                                 ``Mission Support'' elements,
                                                                                 currently located in
                                                                                 Washington, D.C., at a proposed
                                                                                 total annual cost of
                                                                                 $55,664,000 in Washington,
                                                                                 D.C.; in Crystal City/Pentagon
                                                                                 City, VA, at a proposed total
                                                                                 annual cost of $43,168,000; or
                                                                                 in Southern Prince Georges
                                                                                 County, MD, at a proposed total
                                                                                 annual cost of $38,624,000; for
                                                                                 a lease term of up to 20 years,
                                                                                 a prospectus for which is
                                                                                 attached to and included in
                                                                                 this resolution.                                                                                Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives, that,
                                                                                 pursuant to 40 U.S.C. Sec.
                                                                                 3307, appropriations are
                                                                                 authorized for replacement
                                                                                 leases of up to a total of
                                                                                 225,000 rentable square feet,
                                                                                 for elements of the Customs and
                                                                                 Border Protection of the
                                                                                 Department of Homeland Security
                                                                                 as identified in the prospectus
                                                                                 request, currently located in
                                                                                 Washington, D.C., until these
                                                                                 elements can relocate to the
                                                                                 Ronald Reagan Office Building,
                                                                                 at a proposed total annual cost
                                                                                 of $11,025,000 for a lease term
                                                                                 of up to ten years, a
                                                                                 prospectus for which is
                                                                                 attached to and included in
                                                                                 this resolution.                                                                                Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives, that,
                                                                                 pursuant to 40 U.S.C. Sec.
                                                                                 3307, appropriations are
                                                                                 authorized to extend current
                                                                                 leases of up to a total of
                                                                                 364,000 rentable square feet
                                                                                 for the United States Coast
                                                                                 Guard of the Department of
                                                                                 Homeland Security, currently
                                                                                 located at 1900 Half Street,
                                                                                 SW, Washington, D.C., for lease
                                                                                 durations as necessary until
                                                                                 the U.S. Coast Guard relocates
                                                                                 to the St. Elizabeths Campus,
                                                                                 at a proposed total annual cost
                                                                                 of $14,560,000, for a lease
                                                                                 term of up to five years, a
                                                                                 prospectus for which is
                                                                                 attached to and included in
                                                                                 this resolution.                                                                                Approval of this prospectus
                                                                                 constitutes authority to
                                                                                 execute interim leases for all
                                                                                 tenants, if necessary, prior to
                                                                                 the execution of the new lease.                                                                                Provided, that the Administrator
                                                                                 of General Services shall
                                                                                 conduct the lease procurement
                                                                                 for the Mission Support
                                                                                 elements to enable full and
                                                                                 fair consideration of lease
                                                                                 construction proposals and
                                                                                 proposals to lease existing
                                                                                 buildings, and structure the
                                                                                 lease procurement in terms of
                                                                                 milestones and deliverable due
                                                                                 dates, including site plan
                                                                                 approval, design, construction
                                                                                 permitting, and construction
                                                                                 delivery, in a manner
                                                                                 consistent with General
                                                                                 Services Administration
                                                                                 conventions employed in lease-
                                                                                 construct procurements.                                                                                Provided further, that, to the
                                                                                 maximum extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall include in the
                                                                                 lease contract(s) a purchase
                                                                                 option than can be exercised at
                                                                                 the conclusion of the firm term
                                                                                 of the lease.                                                                                Provided further, that, to the
                                                                                 maximum extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall require that the
                                                                                 procurement includes minimum
                                                                                 performance requirements
                                                                                 requiring energy efficiency and
                                                                                 the use of renewable energy.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator shall require
                                                                                 that the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement is identical to the
                                                                                 delineated area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, except that, if the
                                                                                 Administrator determines that
                                                                                 the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement should not be
                                                                                 identical to the delineated
                                                                                 area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, the Administrator
                                                                                 shall provide an explanatory
                                                                                 statement to the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives prior to
                                                                                 exercising any lease authority
                                                                                 provided in this resolution.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.July 1, 2010..........................  Washington, DC........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives, that,
                                                                                 pursuant to 40 U.S.C. Sec.
                                                                                 3307, appropriations are
                                                                                 authorized for a replacement
                                                                                 lease of up to 252,000 rentable
                                                                                 square feet for the Department
                                                                                 of Education, currently located
                                                                                 in the Union Center Plaza
                                                                                 building at 830 First Street,
                                                                                 NE, in Washington, D.C., at a
                                                                                 proposed total annual cost of
                                                                                 $12,348,000 for a lease term of
                                                                                 up to 15 years, a prospectus
                                                                                 for which is attached to and
                                                                                 included in this resolution.                                                                                Approval of this prospectus
                                                                                 constitutes authority to
                                                                                 execute an interim lease for
                                                                                 all tenants, if necessary,
                                                                                 prior to the execution of the
                                                                                 new lease.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall require that the
                                                                                 procurement includes minimum
                                                                                 performance requirements
                                                                                 requiring energy efficiency and
                                                                                 the use of renewable energy.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator shall require
                                                                                 that the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement is identical to the
                                                                                 delineated area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, except that, if the
                                                                                 Administrator determines that
                                                                                 the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement should not be
                                                                                 identical to the delineated
                                                                                 area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, the Administrator
                                                                                 shall provide an explanatory
                                                                                 statement to the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives prior to
                                                                                 exercising any lease authority
                                                                                 provided in this resolution.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.July 1, 2010..........................  Washington, DC........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives, that,
                                                                                 pursuant to 40 U.S.C. Sec.
                                                                                 3307, appropriations are
                                                                                 authorized for replacement
                                                                                 leases of up to a total of
                                                                                 468,000 rentable square feet
                                                                                 for the Department of Justice
                                                                                 (DOJ) Criminal Division and
                                                                                 several other smaller
                                                                                 components of DOJ Offices,
                                                                                 Boards, and Divisions,
                                                                                 currently located in three
                                                                                 locations in Washington, D.C.,
                                                                                 at a proposed total annual cost
                                                                                 of $22,932,000 for a lease term
                                                                                 of up to 15 years, a prospectus
                                                                                 for which is attached to and
                                                                                 included in this resolution.                                                                                Approval of this prospectus
                                                                                 constitutes authority to
                                                                                 execute an interim lease for
                                                                                 all tenants, if necessary,
                                                                                 prior to the execution of the
                                                                                 new lease.                                                                                Provided, that, in the event
                                                                                 that ``best value'' procedures
                                                                                 are employed in the replacement
                                                                                 lease procurement, and the
                                                                                 source selection plan is
                                                                                 structured such that technical
                                                                                 factors in aggregate are more
                                                                                 important than price, that the
                                                                                 Administrator provide a
                                                                                 detailed justification for this
                                                                                 procurement structure to the
                                                                                 Committee on Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, prior to the
                                                                                 inception of the procurement.                                                                                Provided further, that, to the
                                                                                 maximum extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall require that the
                                                                                 procurement includes minimum
                                                                                 performance requirements
                                                                                 requiring energy efficiency and
                                                                                 the use of renewable energy.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator shall require
                                                                                 that the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement is identical to the
                                                                                 delineated area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, except that, if the
                                                                                 Administrator determines that
                                                                                 the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement should not be
                                                                                 identical to the delineated
                                                                                 area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, the Administrator
                                                                                 shall provide an explanatory
                                                                                 statement to the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives prior to
                                                                                 exercising any lease authority
                                                                                 provided in this resolution.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.July 1, 2010..........................  Portland, OR..........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives, that,
                                                                                 pursuant to 40 U.S.C. Sec.
                                                                                 3307, appropriations are
                                                                                 authorized for a replacement
                                                                                 lease of up to 156,000 rentable
                                                                                 square feet for the U.S.
                                                                                 Department of Agriculture, the
                                                                                 U.S. Department of the
                                                                                 Interior, and National Business
                                                                                 Center currently located in the
                                                                                 Robert Duncan Plaza, 333 SW
                                                                                 First Avenue, Portland, OR, at
                                                                                 a proposed total annual cost of
                                                                                 $6,240,000 for a lease term of
                                                                                 up to 15 years, a prospectus
                                                                                 for which is attached to and
                                                                                 included in this resolution.                                                                                Approval of this prospectus
                                                                                 constitutes authority to
                                                                                 execute an interim lease for
                                                                                 all tenants, if necessary,
                                                                                 prior to the execution of the
                                                                                 new lease.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall require that the
                                                                                 procurement includes minimum
                                                                                 performance requirements
                                                                                 requiring energy efficiency and
                                                                                 the use of renewable energy.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator shall require
                                                                                 that the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement is identical to the
                                                                                 delineated area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, except that, if the
                                                                                 Administrator determines that
                                                                                 the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement should not be
                                                                                 identical to the delineated
                                                                                 area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, the Administrator
                                                                                 shall provide an explanatory
                                                                                 statement to the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives prior to
                                                                                 exercising any lease authority
                                                                                 provided in this resolution.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.December 2, 2010......................  Various buildings.....................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, that, pursuant
                                                                                 to 40 U.S.C. Sec.  3307,
                                                                                 appropriations are authorized
                                                                                 for alterations to upgrade,
                                                                                 replace, and improve life
                                                                                 safety features and fire
                                                                                 protection systems in
                                                                                 Government-owned buildings
                                                                                 during fiscal year 2011, at a
                                                                                 proposed cost of $20,000,000, a
                                                                                 prospectus for which is
                                                                                 attached to and included in
                                                                                 this resolution.                                                                                Provided, that the General
                                                                                 Services Administration shall
                                                                                 not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.December 2, 2010......................  Various buildings.....................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, that, pursuant
                                                                                 to 40 U.S.C. Sec.  3307,
                                                                                 appropriations are authorized
                                                                                 to implement energy and water
                                                                                 retrofit and conservation
                                                                                 measures in Government-owned
                                                                                 buildings during fiscal year
                                                                                 2011, at a proposed cost of
                                                                                 $20,000,000, a prospectus for
                                                                                 which is attached to and
                                                                                 included in this resolution.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall require that
                                                                                 procurements executed pursuant
                                                                                 to this authority include
                                                                                 minimum performance
                                                                                 requirements requiring energy
                                                                                 efficiency and the use of
                                                                                 renewable energy.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.December 2, 2010......................  Various buildings.....................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, that, pursuant
                                                                                 to 40 U.S.C. Sec.  3307,
                                                                                 appropriations are authorized
                                                                                 to upgrade, replace, and
                                                                                 improve space within Government-
                                                                                 owned buildings in support of
                                                                                 employee wellness during fiscal
                                                                                 year 2011, at a proposed cost
                                                                                 of $7,000,000, a prospectus for
                                                                                 which is attached to and
                                                                                 included in this resolution.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall require that
                                                                                 procurements executed pursuant
                                                                                 to this authority include
                                                                                 minimum performance
                                                                                 requirements requiring energy
                                                                                 efficiency and the use of
                                                                                 renewable energy.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.December 2, 2010......................  Van Nuys, CA..........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, that, pursuant
                                                                                 to 40 U.S.C. Sec.  3307,
                                                                                 appropriations are authorized
                                                                                 for the build-out of space for
                                                                                 the Department of State's
                                                                                 Consular Affairs Office and
                                                                                 Internal Revenue Service, and
                                                                                 roof replacement at the James
                                                                                 C. Corman Federal Building at
                                                                                 6230 Van Nuys Boulevard, Van
                                                                                 Nuys, CA, at a proposed total
                                                                                 cost of $11,039,000, a
                                                                                 prospectus for which is
                                                                                 attached to and included in
                                                                                 this resolution.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable and
                                                                                 considering life-cycle costs
                                                                                 appropriate for the geographic
                                                                                 area, the General Services
                                                                                 Administration (GSA) shall use
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, in
                                                                                 carrying out the project.                                                                                Provided further, that within
                                                                                 180 days of approval of this
                                                                                 resolution, GSA shall submit to
                                                                                 the Committee on Transportation
                                                                                 and Infrastructure of the House
                                                                                 of Representatives and the
                                                                                 Committee on Environment and
                                                                                 Public Works of the Senate a
                                                                                 report on the planned use of
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, for the
                                                                                 project and if such systems are
                                                                                 not used for the project, the
                                                                                 specific rationale for GSA's
                                                                                 decision.December 2, 2010......................  Richmond, CA..........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, that, pursuant
                                                                                 to 40 U.S.C. Sec.  3307,
                                                                                 appropriations are authorized
                                                                                 for a multi-phase repair and
                                                                                 alteration project for the
                                                                                 Frank Hagel Federal Building at
                                                                                 1221 Nevin Avenue, Richmond,
                                                                                 CA, at a proposed total cost of
                                                                                 $221,670,000, a prospectus for
                                                                                 which is attached to and
                                                                                 included in this resolution.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable and
                                                                                 considering life-cycle costs
                                                                                 appropriate for the geographic
                                                                                 area, the General Services
                                                                                 Administration (GSA) shall use
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, in
                                                                                 carrying out the project.                                                                                Provided further, that within
                                                                                 180 days of approval of this
                                                                                 resolution, GSA shall submit to
                                                                                 the Committee on Transportation
                                                                                 and Infrastructure of the House
                                                                                 of Representatives and the
                                                                                 Committee on Environment and
                                                                                 Public Works of the Senate a
                                                                                 report on the planned use of
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, for such
                                                                                 project and if such systems are
                                                                                 not used for the project, the
                                                                                 specific rationale for GSA's
                                                                                 decision.December 2, 2010......................  Indianapolis, IN......................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, that, pursuant
                                                                                 to 40 U.S.C. Sec.  3307,
                                                                                 appropriations are authorized
                                                                                 for an alteration of the Major
                                                                                 General Emmett J. Bean Federal
                                                                                 Center at 8899 East 56th
                                                                                 Street, Indianapolis, IN, at a
                                                                                 proposed total cost of
                                                                                 $46,426,000, a prospectus for
                                                                                 which is attached to and
                                                                                 included in this resolution.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable and
                                                                                 considering life-cycle costs
                                                                                 appropriate for the geographic
                                                                                 area, the General Services
                                                                                 Administration (GSA) shall use
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, in
                                                                                 carrying out the project.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services is authorized to
                                                                                 undertake design and
                                                                                 construction of only those
                                                                                 security features which will
                                                                                 bring the Major General Emmett
                                                                                 J. Bean Federal Center and
                                                                                 grounds into compliance with
                                                                                 the security standards
                                                                                 promulgated by the Interagency
                                                                                 Security Committee.                                                                                Provided further, that within
                                                                                 180 days of approval of this
                                                                                 resolution, GSA shall submit to
                                                                                 the Committee on Transportation
                                                                                 and Infrastructure of the House
                                                                                 of Representatives and the
                                                                                 Committee on Environment and
                                                                                 Public Works of the Senate a
                                                                                 report on the planned use of
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, for such
                                                                                 project and if such systems are
                                                                                 not used for the project, the
                                                                                 specific rationale for GSA's
                                                                                 decision.December 2, 2010......................  New York, NY..........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, that, pursuant
                                                                                 to 40 U.S.C. Sec.  3307,
                                                                                 appropriations are authorized
                                                                                 for alterations to the Daniel
                                                                                 Patrick Moynihan U.S.
                                                                                 Courthouse at 500 Pearl Street,
                                                                                 New York, NY, at a proposed
                                                                                 total cost of $28,000,000, a
                                                                                 prospectus for which is
                                                                                 attached to and included in
                                                                                 this resolution.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable and
                                                                                 considering life-cycle costs
                                                                                 appropriate for the geographic
                                                                                 area, the General Services
                                                                                 Administration (GSA) shall use
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, in
                                                                                 carrying out the project.                                                                                Provided further, that within
                                                                                 180 days of approval of this
                                                                                 resolution, GSA shall submit to
                                                                                 the Committee on Transportation
                                                                                 and Infrastructure of the House
                                                                                 of Representatives and the
                                                                                 Committee on Environment and
                                                                                 Public Works of the Senate a
                                                                                 report on the planned use of
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, for such
                                                                                 project and if such systems are
                                                                                 not used for the project, the
                                                                                 specific rationale for GSA's
                                                                                 decision.December 2, 2010......................  Calexico, CA..........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, that, pursuant
                                                                                 to 40 U.S.C. Sec.  3307,
                                                                                 appropriations are authorized
                                                                                 for the reconfiguration and
                                                                                 expansion of the existing land
                                                                                 port of entry in downtown
                                                                                 Calexico, CA, at management and
                                                                                 inspection costs of $28,119,000
                                                                                 and estimated construction
                                                                                 costs of $246,344,000, for a
                                                                                 combined cost of $274,463,000,
                                                                                 a prospectus for which is
                                                                                 attached to and included in
                                                                                 this resolution.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable and
                                                                                 considering life-cycle costs
                                                                                 appropriate for the geographic
                                                                                 area, the General Services
                                                                                 Administration (GSA) shall use
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, in
                                                                                 carrying out the project.                                                                                Provided further, that within
                                                                                 180 days of approval of this
                                                                                 resolution, GSA shall submit to
                                                                                 the Committee on Transportation
                                                                                 and Infrastructure of the House
                                                                                 of Representatives and the
                                                                                 Committee on Environment and
                                                                                 Public Works of the Senate a
                                                                                 report on the planned use of
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, for such
                                                                                 project and if such systems are
                                                                                 not used for the project, the
                                                                                 specific rationale for GSA's
                                                                                 decision.December 2, 2010......................  Washington, DC........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, that, pursuant
                                                                                 to 40 U.S.C. Sec.  3307,
                                                                                 additional appropriations are
                                                                                 authorized for the
                                                                                 consolidation of the Department
                                                                                 of Homeland Security
                                                                                 headquarters at St. Elizabeths
                                                                                 West Campus, Washington, DC,
                                                                                 for an additional combined
                                                                                 estimated project cost of
                                                                                 $1,149,406,000, a prospectus
                                                                                 for which is attached to and
                                                                                 included in this resolution.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable and
                                                                                 considering life-cycle costs
                                                                                 appropriate for the geographic
                                                                                 area, the General Services
                                                                                 Administration (GSA) shall use
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, in
                                                                                 carrying out the project.                                                                                Provided further, that no new
                                                                                 pedestrian tunnels shall be
                                                                                 constructed between the East
                                                                                 Campus and West Campus of St.
                                                                                 Elizabeths.                                                                                Provided further, that within
                                                                                 180 days of approval of this
                                                                                 resolution, GSA shall submit to
                                                                                 the Committee on Transportation
                                                                                 and Infrastructure of the House
                                                                                 of Representatives and the
                                                                                 Committee on Environment and
                                                                                 Public Works of the Senate a
                                                                                 report on the planned use of
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, for such
                                                                                 project and if such systems are
                                                                                 not used for the project, the
                                                                                 specific rationale for GSA's
                                                                                 decision.December 2, 2010......................  Calais, ME............................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the. House of
                                                                                 Representatives, that, pursuant
                                                                                 to 40 U.S.C. Sec.  3307,
                                                                                 appropriations are authorized
                                                                                 for the redevelopment of the
                                                                                 existing land port of entry at
                                                                                 Ferry Point, Calais, ME, at
                                                                                 site acquisition costs of
                                                                                 $500,000 and design and review
                                                                                 costs of $1,052,000, for a
                                                                                 combined cost of $1,552,000, a
                                                                                 prospectus for which is
                                                                                 attached to and included in
                                                                                 this resolution.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable and
                                                                                 considering life-cycle costs
                                                                                 appropriate for the geographic
                                                                                 area, the General Services
                                                                                 Administration (GSA) shall use
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, in
                                                                                 carrying out the project.                                                                                Provided further, that within
                                                                                 180 days of approval of this
                                                                                 resolution, GSA shall submit to
                                                                                 the Committee on Transportation
                                                                                 and Infrastructure of the House
                                                                                 of Representatives and the
                                                                                 Committee on Environment and
                                                                                 Public Works of the Senate a
                                                                                 report on the planned use of
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, for such
                                                                                 project and if such systems are
                                                                                 not used for the project, the
                                                                                 specific rationale for GSA's
                                                                                 decision.December 2, 2010......................  Detroit, MI...........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, that, pursuant
                                                                                 to 40 U.S.C. Sec.  3307,
                                                                                 appropriations are authorized
                                                                                 for the design of an annex to
                                                                                 the Patrick V. McNamara Federal
                                                                                 Building to provide an
                                                                                 automotive maintenance shop and
                                                                                 a secured parking garage for
                                                                                 the Federal Bureau of
                                                                                 Investigation, at a proposed
                                                                                 cost of $3,658,000, a
                                                                                 prospectus for which is
                                                                                 attached to and included in
                                                                                 this resolution.                                                                                Provided, that, to achieve cost
                                                                                 savings, the Administrator of
                                                                                 General Services, in
                                                                                 coordination with the Federal
                                                                                 Bureau of Investigation, shall
                                                                                 critically examine all
                                                                                 opportunities to reduce the
                                                                                 number of parking spaces and/or
                                                                                 the size of the garage,
                                                                                 including the use of stacked
                                                                                 parking, and by accounting for
                                                                                 diversity factors (e.g.,
                                                                                 average number of agents on
                                                                                 leave or travel) which may
                                                                                 attenuate the daily total
                                                                                 parking need.                                                                                Provided further, that, to the
                                                                                 maximum extent practicable and
                                                                                 considering life-cycle costs
                                                                                 appropriate for the geographic
                                                                                 area, that the General Services
                                                                                 Administration (GSA) shall use
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, in
                                                                                 carrying out the project.                                                                                Provided further, that, within
                                                                                 180 days of approval of this
                                                                                 resolution, GSA shall submit to
                                                                                 the Committee on Transportation
                                                                                 and Infrastructure of the House
                                                                                 of Representatives and the
                                                                                 Committee on Environment and
                                                                                 Public Works of the Senate a
                                                                                 report on the planned use of
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, for such
                                                                                 project and if such systems are
                                                                                 not used for the project, the
                                                                                 specific rationale for GSA's
                                                                                 decision.December 2, 2010......................  Martinsburg, WV.......................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, that, pursuant
                                                                                 to 40 U.S.C. Sec.  3307,
                                                                                 appropriations are authorized
                                                                                 for acquisition, through an
                                                                                 existing purchase option, of
                                                                                 the building located at 145
                                                                                 Murall Drive, Martinsburg, WV,
                                                                                 at a proposed total cost of
                                                                                 $24,767,000, a prospectus for
                                                                                 which is attached to and
                                                                                 included in this resolution.December 2, 2010......................  Salt Lake City, UT....................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, that pursuant
                                                                                 to 40 U.S.C. Sec.  3307,
                                                                                 appropriations are authorized
                                                                                 for the management and
                                                                                 inspection costs and
                                                                                 construction costs of the U.S.
                                                                                 courthouse, Salt Lake City, UT,
                                                                                 not to exceed 409,397 gross
                                                                                 square feet (including inside
                                                                                 parking), at a combined cost of
                                                                                 $185,700,000, a fact sheet for
                                                                                 which is attached to and
                                                                                 included in this resolution.                                                                                Provided, that the Administrator
                                                                                 of General Services shall
                                                                                 ensure that the Salt Lake City,
                                                                                 Utah courthouse contains no
                                                                                 more than 10 courtrooms.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall ensure that the
                                                                                 courtroom sharing policies
                                                                                 approved by the Judicial
                                                                                 Conference in September 2008
                                                                                 for senior District Judges and
                                                                                 in March 2009 for Magistrate
                                                                                 Judges are utilized in the
                                                                                 design and construction of the
                                                                                 Salt Lake City, Utah
                                                                                 courthouse;                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall require that any
                                                                                 excess space not allocated to
                                                                                 courtroom or other court-
                                                                                 related use in the Salt Lake
                                                                                 City, Utah courthouse shall be
                                                                                 used to provide office space to
                                                                                 Executive Branch agencies that
                                                                                 are not ancillary or related to
                                                                                 the Federal judiciary;                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall submit a
                                                                                 prospectus for any additional
                                                                                 expansion space, after
                                                                                 completion of construction and
                                                                                 occupancy of the Salt Lake
                                                                                 City, Utah courthouse, for
                                                                                 court or other court-related
                                                                                 use requested in such
                                                                                 courthouse;                                                                                Provided further, that prior to
                                                                                 acceptance of the Guaranteed
                                                                                 Maximum Price (GMP), the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall advise the
                                                                                 Committee on Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives of the number
                                                                                 of courtrooms, chambers, court
                                                                                 space, and other agency space
                                                                                 to be provided in the entire
                                                                                 Salt Lake City, Utah courthouse
                                                                                 complex (including the Moss
                                                                                 Courthouse);                                                                                Provided further, that no
                                                                                 additional funds, beyond the
                                                                                 GMP, in effect on the date of
                                                                                 this resolution, for the
                                                                                 construction of the Salt Lake
                                                                                 City, Utah courthouse, as of
                                                                                 the adoption of this
                                                                                 resolution, shall be authorized
                                                                                 or obligated for this project;                                                                                Provided further, that prior to
                                                                                 the design of the Moss
                                                                                 Courthouse renovation, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall provide the
                                                                                 Committee on Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives a report on the
                                                                                 optimal housing plan for the
                                                                                 courts, including
                                                                                 recommendations about the
                                                                                 preferred asset management
                                                                                 strategy, with accompanying
                                                                                 economic analyses of
                                                                                 alternatives for the Moss
                                                                                 Courthouse as: a Federal
                                                                                 building and courthouse; a
                                                                                 Federal building without a
                                                                                 court presence; or a plan to
                                                                                 reposition the Moss Courthouse
                                                                                 out of Federal ownership;                                                                                Provided further, that to the
                                                                                 maximum extent practicable and
                                                                                 considering life-cycle costs
                                                                                 appropriate for the geographic
                                                                                 area, the General Services
                                                                                 Administration (GSA) shall use
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, in
                                                                                 carrying out the project;                                                                                Provided further, that within
                                                                                 180 days of adoption of this
                                                                                 resolution, GSA shall submit to
                                                                                 the Committee on Transportation
                                                                                 and Infrastructure a report on
                                                                                 the planned use of energy
                                                                                 efficient and renewable energy
                                                                                 systems, including photovoltaic
                                                                                 systems, for the project, and
                                                                                 if such systems are not used
                                                                                 for the project, the specific
                                                                                 rationale for GSA's decision.                                                                                Provided further, that beginning
                                                                                 on July 19, 2006, the Judicial
                                                                                 Conference of the United States
                                                                                 shall specifically approve each
                                                                                 departure from the U.S. Courts
                                                                                 Design Guide for each U.S.
                                                                                 courthouse construction project
                                                                                 which results in additional
                                                                                 estimated costs of the project
                                                                                 (including additional rent
                                                                                 payment obligations) and that
                                                                                 the Judicial Conference provide
                                                                                 a specific list of each
                                                                                 departure and the justification
                                                                                 and estimated costs (as
                                                                                 supplied by GSA) of such
                                                                                 departure for each U.S.
                                                                                 courthouse construction project
                                                                                 to GSA. Each U.S. courthouse
                                                                                 construction prospectus
                                                                                 submitted by GSA shall include
                                                                                 a specific list of each
                                                                                 departure and the justification
                                                                                 and estimated cost (including
                                                                                 additional rent payment
                                                                                 obligations) of such departure
                                                                                 and GSA's recommendation on
                                                                                 whether the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives and the
                                                                                 Committee on Environment and
                                                                                 Public Works of the Senate
                                                                                 should approve such departure.December 2, 2010......................  Los Angeles, CA.......................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives, that, pursuant
                                                                                 to 40 U.S.C. Sec.  3307,
                                                                                 appropriations are authorized
                                                                                 for the design of alterations
                                                                                 for the Federal Building/
                                                                                 Parking Garage at 11000
                                                                                 Wilshire Boulevard, Los
                                                                                 Angeles, CA, at a proposed cost
                                                                                 of $51,217,000, a prospectus
                                                                                 for which is attached to and
                                                                                 included in this resolution.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable and
                                                                                 considering life-cycle costs
                                                                                 appropriate for the geographic
                                                                                 area, the General Services
                                                                                 Administration (GSA) shall use
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, in
                                                                                 carrying out the project.                                                                                Provided further, that within
                                                                                 180 days of approval of this
                                                                                 resolution, GSA shall submit to
                                                                                 the Committee on Transportation
                                                                                 and Infrastructure of the House
                                                                                 of Representatives and the
                                                                                 Committee on Environment and
                                                                                 Public Works of the Senate a
                                                                                 report on the planned use of
                                                                                 energy efficient and renewable
                                                                                 energy systems, including
                                                                                 photovoltaic systems, for such
                                                                                 project and if such systems are
                                                                                 not used for the project, the
                                                                                 specific rationale for GSA's
                                                                                 decision.December 2, 2010......................  Northern VA...........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives, that,
                                                                                 pursuant to 40 U.S.C. Sec.
                                                                                 3307, appropriations are
                                                                                 authorized for a new lease of
                                                                                 up to 103,684 rentable square
                                                                                 feet for the General Services
                                                                                 Administration Federal
                                                                                 Acquisition Service currently
                                                                                 located at several locations in
                                                                                 Northern Virginia at a proposed
                                                                                 total annual cost of $3,939,992
                                                                                 for a lease term of up to 10
                                                                                 years, a prospectus for which
                                                                                 is attached to and included in
                                                                                 this resolution.                                                                                Approval of this prospectus
                                                                                 constitutes authority to
                                                                                 execute an interim lease for
                                                                                 all tenants, if necessary,
                                                                                 prior to the execution of the
                                                                                 new lease.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall require that the
                                                                                 procurement includes minimum
                                                                                 performance requirements
                                                                                 requiring energy efficiency and
                                                                                 the use of renewable energy.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator shall require
                                                                                 that the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement is identical to the
                                                                                 delineated area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, except that, if the
                                                                                 Administrator determines that
                                                                                 the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement should not be
                                                                                 identical to the delineated
                                                                                 area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, the Administrator
                                                                                 shall provide an explanatory
                                                                                 statement to the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives prior to
                                                                                 exercising any lease authority
                                                                                 provided in this resolution.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.December 2, 2010......................  Berkley and Jefferson Counties, WV....  Pursuant to 40 U.S.C. Sec.
                                                                                 3307, appropriations are
                                                                                 authorized for a new lease of
                                                                                 up to 161,000 rentable square
                                                                                 feet for partial consolidation/
                                                                                 expansion requirements of the
                                                                                 United States Coast Guard
                                                                                 Operations System Center,
                                                                                 currently located in multiple
                                                                                 leased locations at a proposed
                                                                                 total annual cost of $4,186,000
                                                                                 for a lease term of up to 20
                                                                                 years, a prospectus for which
                                                                                 is attached to and included in
                                                                                 this resolution.                                                                                Approval of this prospectus
                                                                                 constitutes authority to
                                                                                 execute interim leases for all
                                                                                 tenants, if necessary, prior to
                                                                                 the execution of the new lease.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall require that the
                                                                                 procurement includes minimum
                                                                                 performance requirements
                                                                                 requiring energy efficiency and
                                                                                 the use of renewable energy.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator shall require
                                                                                 that the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement is identical to the
                                                                                 delineated area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, except that, if the
                                                                                 Administrator determines that
                                                                                 the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement should not be
                                                                                 identical to the delineated
                                                                                 area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, the Administrator
                                                                                 shall provide an explanatory
                                                                                 statement to the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives prior to
                                                                                 exercising any lease authority
                                                                                 provided in this resolution.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.December 2, 2010......................  Northern VA...........................  Resolved by the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the U.S.
                                                                                 House of Representatives, that,
                                                                                 pursuant to 40 U.S.C. Sec.
                                                                                 3307, appropriations are
                                                                                 authorized for a replacement
                                                                                 lease of up to 329,000 rentable
                                                                                 square feet for the Department
                                                                                 of Defense, Office of Naval
                                                                                 Research, currently located at
                                                                                 875 North Randolph Street,
                                                                                 Arlington, VA, at a proposed
                                                                                 total annual cost of
                                                                                 $12,502,000 for a lease term of
                                                                                 up to 15 years, a prospectus
                                                                                 for which is attached to and
                                                                                 included in this resolution.                                                                                Approval of this prospectus
                                                                                 constitutes authority to
                                                                                 execute an interim lease for
                                                                                 all tenants, if necessary,
                                                                                 prior to the execution of the
                                                                                 new lease.                                                                                Provided, that, to the maximum
                                                                                 extent practicable, the
                                                                                 Administrator of General
                                                                                 Services shall require that the
                                                                                 procurement includes minimum
                                                                                 performance requirements
                                                                                 requiring energy efficiency and
                                                                                 the use of renewable energy.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator shall require
                                                                                 that the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement is identical to the
                                                                                 delineated area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, except that, if the
                                                                                 Administrator determines that
                                                                                 the delineated area of the
                                                                                 procurement should not be
                                                                                 identical to the delineated
                                                                                 area included in the
                                                                                 prospectus, the Administrator
                                                                                 shall provide an explanatory
                                                                                 statement to the Committee on
                                                                                 Transportation and
                                                                                 Infrastructure of the House of
                                                                                 Representatives prior to
                                                                                 exercising any lease authority
                                                                                 provided in this resolution.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 Administrator is authorized to
                                                                                 apply only the security
                                                                                 standards promulgated by the
                                                                                 Interagency Security Committee
                                                                                 (ISC) to this lease
                                                                                 procurement.                                                                                Provided further, that the
                                                                                 General Services Administration
                                                                                 shall not delegate to any other
                                                                                 agency the authority granted by
                                                                                 this resolution.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                       PUBLIC BUILDING 3314(b) RESOLUTIONS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Date Approved                       Location                                 Project
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
June 4, 2009....................  Panama City and Bay County, FL..  Resolved by the Committee on Transportation
                                                                     and Infrastructure of the U.S. House of
                                                                     Representatives, that, pursuant to 40
                                                                     U.S.C. Sec.  3315(b), the Administrator of
                                                                     General Services shall investigate the
                                                                     feasibility and need to construct or
                                                                     acquire a replacement facility to house the
                                                                     United States District Court for the
                                                                     Northern District of Florida and other
                                                                     Federal agencies, located in Panama City
                                                                     and Bay County, Florida. The analysis shall
                                                                     include a full and complete evaluation
                                                                     including, but not limited to: (i) the
                                                                     identification and cost of potential sites;
                                                                     and (ii) 30-year present value evaluations
                                                                     of all options, including Federal
                                                                     construction, purchase (including lease
                                                                     with an option to purchase or purchase
                                                                     contract), and lease. The Administrator
                                                                     shall submit a report to Congress within 60
                                                                     days of the adoption of this resolution.June 4, 2009....................  Clarksburg, WV..................  Resolved by the Committee on Transportation
                                                                     and Infrastructure of the U.S. House of
                                                                     Representatives, that, pursuant to 40
                                                                     U.S.C. Sec.  3315(b), the Administrator of
                                                                     General Services shall investigate the
                                                                     feasibility and need to construct or
                                                                     acquire a replacement facility to house the
                                                                     United States District Court for the
                                                                     Northern District of West Virginia and
                                                                     other federal agencies, located in
                                                                     Clarksburg, West Virginia. The analysis
                                                                     shall include a full and complete
                                                                     evaluation including, but not limited to:
                                                                     (i) the identification and cost of
                                                                     potential sites; and (ii) 30-year present
                                                                     value evaluations of all options, including
                                                                     Federal construction, purchase (including
                                                                     lease with an option to purchase or
                                                                     purchase contract), and lease. The
                                                                     Administrator shall submit a report to
                                                                     Congress within 60 days of the adoption of
                                                                     this resolution.July 1, 2010....................  McAllen, TX.....................  Resolved by the Committee on Transportation
                                                                     and Infrastructure of the U.S. House of
                                                                     Representatives, that, pursuant to Title 40
                                                                     U.S.C. Sec.  3315(b), the Administrator of
                                                                     General Services shall investigate the
                                                                     feasibility and need to construct or
                                                                     acquire a replacement facility to house the
                                                                     Federal agencies and the United States
                                                                     District Court for the Southern District of
                                                                     Texas, located in McAllen, Texas. The
                                                                     analysis shall include a full and complete
                                                                     evaluation including: (1) the
                                                                     identification and cost of potential sites;
                                                                     (2) the 30-year present value evaluations
                                                                     of all options, including Federal
                                                                     construction, purchase (including lease
                                                                     with an option to purchase or purchase
                                                                     contract), and lease; and (3) an assessment
                                                                     of the space requirements that provides
                                                                     courtroom sharing in accordance with the
                                                                     following requirements: one courtroom for
                                                                     every two magistrate judges; and one
                                                                     courtroom for every two senior district
                                                                     judges, with active district judges being
                                                                     counted as senior district judges if such
                                                                     judges become eligible for senior status
                                                                     within the ten year planning period, and no
                                                                     senior judge being counted beyond age 85.
                                                                     The Administrator shall submit a report to
                                                                     the Committee on Transportation and
                                                                     Infrastructure of the U.S. House of
                                                                     Representatives within 60 days of the
                                                                     adoption of this resolution.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


  

                       Summary of Activities for

                the Subcommittee on Highways and Transit

    During the 111th Congress, the Subcommittee on Highways and 
Transit, chaired by Representative Peter A. DeFazio, with 
Representative John J. Duncan, Jr. serving as Ranking Member, 
held 13 hearings (94 witnesses and approximately 47 hours) and 
one Members' roundtable, covering the breadth of issues within 
the jurisdiction of the Subcommittee.
    The Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure 
developed major legislation, H.R. ___, the ``Surface 
Transportation Authorization Act of 2009'', to reauthorize 
Federal surface transportation programs and provide $450 
billion over six years for surface transportation programs and 
$50 billion for development of high-speed rail. On June 24, 
2009, the Subcommittee reported the bill favorably to the 
Committee by voice vote. No further action was taken on this 
legislation.
    The following bills and resolutions were enacted in the 
111th Congress:
           Public Law 111-147, the Hiring Incentives to 
        Restore Employment Act,
           Public Law 111-144, the Temporary Extension 
        Act of 2010,
           Public Law 111-157, the Continuing Extension 
        Act of 2010,
           Public Law 111-322, the Continuing 
        Appropriations and Surface Transportation Extensions 
        Act, 2011
           Public Law 111-___, the Pedestrian Safety 
        Enhancement Act of 2010,
           H. Res. 269, supporting the goals of 
        Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month,
           H. Res. 841, expressing support for 
        designation of November 29, 2009, as ``Drive Safer 
        Sunday'',
           H. Res. 907 recognizing the Grand Concourse 
        on its 100th anniversary as the preeminent thoroughfare 
        in the Borough of the Bronx and an important nexus of 
        commerce and culture for the City of New York,
           H. Res. 917, recognizing the Florida Keys 
        Scenic Highway on the occasion of its designation as an 
        All-American Road by the U.S. Department of 
        Transportation, and
           H. Res. 1186, expressing support for 
        designation of April as National Distracted Driving 
        Awareness Month.
    Other bills that passed the House include:
           H.R. 5730, the ``Surface Transportation 
        Earmark Rescission, Savings, and Accountability Act'',
           H.R. 5604, the ``Surface Transportation 
        Savings Act of 2010'',
           H.R. 3617, the ``Surface Transportation 
        Extension Act of 2009'',
           H.R. 3427, the ``State Ethics Law Protection 
        Act of 2010'',
           H.R. 3960, the ``Residential and Commuter 
        Toll Fairness Act of 2010'', and
           H.R. 3804, the National Park Service 
        Authorities and Corrections Act of 2009

                      Public Laws and Resolutions


              Hiring Incentives To Restore Employment Act


                           Public Law 111-147


                               (Title IV)


                              (H.R. 2847)


                             March 18, 2010

    The HIRE Act extends Federal highway, highway safety, 
public transportation, motor carrier safety, surface 
transportation research programs and policies authorized by 
SAFETEA-LU through December 31, 2010. Authorizations for these 
programs were set to expire on March 28, 2010.

                    Temporary Extension Act of 2010


                           Public Law 111-144


                              (H.R. 4691)


                             March 2, 2010

    The Temporary Extension Act of 2010 extended a number of 
Federal programs, including the Federal highway, highway 
safety, public transportation, motor carrier safety, surface 
transportation research programs, and policies authorized by 
the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation 
Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU). These programs and 
policies, which had been scheduled to expire on September 29, 
2009, were extended through February 28, 2010 by three 
Continuing Resolutions. The Temporary Extension Act of 2010 
extends these programs and policies from the date of enactment 
through March 28, 2010. Funding for these programs and policies 
has subsequently been provided through passage of P.L. 111-147, 
the Hiring Incentives to Restore Employment (HIRE) Act, on 
March 18, 2010. Currently, these funds will continue through 
December 31, 2010.

                    Continuing Extension Act of 2010


                           Public Law 111-157


                              (section 8)


                              (H.R. 4851)


                          (See also H.R. 4786)


                             April 15, 2010

    This law includes a provision to compensate Federal 
employees furloughed as a result of the lapse in expenditure 
authority from the Highway Trust Fund beginning on February 28, 
2010 at midnight and lasting through March 2, 2010. Furloughs 
affected nearly 2,000 employees at the Federal Highway 
Administration, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety 
Administration, the National Highway Traffic Safety 
Administration and the Research and Innovative Technology 
Administration that are funded by the Highway Trust Fund.
    This law also ratified and approved all actions taken by 
Federal employees, contractors, and grantees during that period 
of lapse to: (1) maintain the essential level of government 
operations, services, and activities to protect life and 
property; and (2) bring about orderly termination of government 
functions.

         Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2010, Part II


                           Public Law 111-322


                               (Title II)


                              (H.R. 3082)


                           December 22, 2010

    The Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2010, Part II, 
(STEA of 2010 Part II) extends--through March 4, 2011--the 
authority for surface transportation programs originally 
authorized under SAFETEA-LU through September 30, 2009, and 
subsequently extended through December 31, 2010. Specifically, 
STEA of 2010 Part II extends all the provisions of SAFETEA-LU 
(or its extensions) that otherwise would have expired on or 
ceased to apply after December 31, 2010.
    STEA of 2010 Part II continues, through March 4, 2011, to 
provide funding at fiscal year 2009 levels (as authorized in 
SAFETEA-LU). This provides, for the period beginning on January 
1, 2011, and ending on March 4, 2011, a total of $9.564 billion 
for highway, highway safety, motor carrier safety, and transit 
programs, including the following amounts: $7.500 billion for 
highway programs, $1.839 billion for transit programs, $129 
million for highway safety programs, and $96 million for motor 
carrier safety programs. This funding will allow States and 
local governments to carry out important capital and 
operational programs, projects and activities, pending 
enactment of a multiyear law reauthorizing the Federal surface 
transportation programs.
    As in prior SAFETEA-LU extensions, STEA of 2010 Part II 
distributes ``bonus'' formula funds in lieu of additional 
highway or transit program earmarks. The law provides each 
State with a pro-rated amount of bonus funding that is equal to 
the amount that the State received in fiscal year 2009 to carry 
out the High Priority Projects program, Transportation 
Improvements, the Maglev program, Highway Bridge Program set-
asides, Projects of National and Regional Significance, and the 
National Corridor Infrastructure Improvement program. Prior 
extensions distributed each State's share of these bonus funds 
among six of the 13 State highway formula programs. STEA of 
2010 Part II instead distributes these funds among all 13 
programs. The law requires the Federal Highway Administration 
to administer all bonus funds in the same manner and with the 
same period of availability as other funding that the States 
receive under each of these formula programs.
    In addition to these provisions, STEA of 2010 Part II 
extends through August 2012 the SAFETEA-LU-authorized Surface 
Transportation Project Delivery Pilot Program. This program, 
which was otherwise scheduled to expire in August 2011, allows 
five designated States to assume many of the Secretary of 
Transportation's responsibilities under the National 
Environmental Policy Act. Finally, STEA of 2010 Part II grants 
the Secretary of Transportation authority to implement the 
results of the future strategic highway research program.

               Pedestrian Safety Enhancement Act of 2010


                           Public Law 111-___


                                (S. 841)


                              January 2011

    This law directs the Secretary of Transportation to study 
and establish a motor vehicle safety standard that provides a 
means of alerting blind and other pedestrians of the presence 
of a motor vehicle operation for otherwise silent vehicles, 
such as hybrids. The law directs $2 million of the amounts 
appropriated to the Department under safety belt performance 
grants to develop and implement the new standards.

       Supporting the Goals of Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month


                             (H. Res. 269)


                              May 5, 2009

    H. Res. 269 expresses the House of Representatives' support 
for the goals of Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month and brings 
much needed attention to motorcycle safety on our nation's 
roadways. Motorcycles are a fuel-efficient and congestion-
decreasing mode of transportation and are a valuable component 
of our transportation system. This increasingly popular mode of 
transportation also requires greater attention to the safety 
concerns associated with riding. Public awareness of motorcycle 
safety benefits everyone that uses our nation's roadways, not 
just motorcyclists, because it can lead to a decrease in car-
motorcycle crashes.

  Expressing Support for Designation of November 29, 2009 as ``Drive 
                             Safer Sunday''


                             (H. Res. 841)


                           November 17, 2009

    H. Res. 841 expresses support for the designation of 
November 29, 2009 as ``Drive Safer Sunday.'' This resolution 
highlights the dangers posed by unsafe driving, including 
distracted driving, and encourages administrators and teachers 
at high schools and colleges to launch campus-wide educational 
campaigns to urge students to be careful about safety when 
driving. It also encourages national trucking firms to alert 
their drivers to be especially focused on driving safely during 
the heaviest traffic day of the year, and to publicize the 
importance of the day using Citizen's Band radios and in truck 
stops across the nation. Finally, this resolution urges all 
Americans to use this as an opportunity to educate themselves 
about highway safety and the dangers of distracted driving.

    Recognizing the Grand Concourse on Its 100th Anniversary as the 
 Preeminent Thoroughfare in the Borough of the Bronx and an Important 
        Nexus of Commerce and Culture for the City of New York 


                             (H. Res. 907)


                            December 8, 2009

    H. Res. 907 recognizes the Grand Concourse on its 100th 
anniversary as the preeminent thoroughfare in the borough of 
the Bronx, and its roles as an important nexus of commerce and 
culture for the City of New York. Designed by Louis Aloys Risse 
and opened in 1909, this tree-lined thoroughfare was first 
conceived of in 1890 as a means of connecting the borough of 
Manhattan to the northern Bronx. Over the course of its 100 
years, the Grand Concourse has played a long-standing role in 
defining the Bronx community, and serving as the central north-
south artery of the borough. For over four miles, the Grand 
Concourse is lined by several parks, fountains, and other 
pedestrian-friendly community treasures.

  Recognizing the Florida Keys Scenic Highway on the Occasion of Its 
     Designation as an All-American Road by the U.S. Department of 
                             Transportation


                             (H. Res. 917)


                             March 24, 2010

    H. Res. 917 recognizes the Florida Keys Scenic Highway on 
the occasion of its designation as an All-American Road by the 
DOT and congratulates those residents of the Florida Keys who 
participated in the effort to support this designation.

  Expressing Support for Designation of April as National Distracted 
                        Driving Awareness Month


                             (H. Res. 1186)


                             March 23, 2010

    H. Res. 1186 expresses support for the designation of April 
as Distracted Driving Awareness month; encourages all people in 
the United States to consider the lives of others on the road 
and avoid distracted driving; and requests the Clerk of the 
House to transmit a copy of the resolution to FocusDriven, an 
advocacy group for victims of motor vehicle crashes involving 
drivers using cell phones.

                           Other Legislation


            Surface Transportation Authorization Act of 2009


                               (H.R. ___)


          Subcommittee Reported Favorably to the Committee on
                             June 24, 2009

    On June 24, 2009, the Subcommittee on Highways and Transit 
met to mark up H.R. ___, the ``Surface Transportation 
Authorization Act of 2009''.
    The Surface Transportation Authorization Act of 2009 
authorizes the nation's highway, highway safety, and public 
transportation programs. This legislation is designed to 
replace the current authorization, the Safe, Accountable, 
Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for 
Users (SAFETEA-LU) (P.L. 109-59), which expired on September 
30, 2009.
    In preparation for authorization of the surface 
transportation programs, the Subcommittee on Highways and 
Transit held more than 30 hearings and six Member briefings in 
the 110th and 111th Congresses to examine various aspects of 
the surface transportation networks or policies.
    Prior to the Subcommittee markup, the bipartisan leadership 
of the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure released 
a white paper, entitled ``A Blueprint for Investment and 
Reform'', outlining the new surface transportation 
authorization bill.
    The Surface Transportation Authorization Act of 2009 
transforms the nation's surface transportation programs to 
achieve specific national objectives: reducing fatalities and 
serious injuries on highways; improving mobility and access in 
metropolitan areas; upgrading the freight transportation 
network; expanding the interconnectivity of communities; 
providing transportation choices for commuters and travelers; 
limiting the adverse effects of transportation on the 
environment; and promoting modal choice, public health and the 
livability of our communities.
    The Surface Transportation Authorization Act of 2009 
modernizes and reforms the nation's surface transportation 
framework and provides the necessary investment to carry out 
this vision. The bill provides increased transparency, 
accountability, oversight, and performance measurement to 
ensure maximum return on investments in the nation's surface 
transportation network. Specifically, the Surface 
Transportation Authorization Act of 2009:
           Redefines the Federal role and restructures 
        Federal surface transportation by consolidating or 
        terminating more than 75 programs;
           Consolidates the majority of highway funding 
        into four core formula categories designed to bring our 
        highway and bridge systems to a state of good repair; 
        improve highway safety; develop new and improved system 
        capacity; and reduce congestion and greenhouse gas 
        emissions and improve air quality;
           Focuses the majority of transit funding into 
        four core categories to bring urban and rural public 
        transit systems to a state of good repair; provide 
        specific funding to restore transit rail systems; 
        provide mobility and access to transit-dependent 
        individuals; and plan, design, and construct new 
        transit lines and intermodal facilities;
           Directs Federal highway safety investments 
        to specific activities demonstrated to reduce 
        fatalities and injuries on our roads;
           Establishes new initiatives to address the 
        crippling impacts of congestion in major metropolitan 
        regions, and eliminate bottlenecks in freight 
        transportation;
           Creates a National Transportation Strategic 
        Plan, based on long-range highway, transit, and rail 
        plans developed by States and metropolitan regions, to 
        develop intermodal connectivity of the nation's 
        transportation system and identify projects of national 
        significance;
           Reforms the U.S. Department of 
        Transportation (DOT) to require intermodal planning and 
        decision-making; ensuring that projects are planned and 
        completed in a timely manner; and making certain that 
        DOT programs advance the livability of communities;
           Requires States and local governments to 
        establish transportation plans with specific 
        performance standards; measure their progress in 
        meeting these standards annually; and periodically 
        adjust their plans as necessary to achieve specific 
        objectives;
           Improves the project delivery process by 
        eliminating duplication in documentation and 
        procedures;
           Establishes a new program to finance 
        planning, design, and construction of high-speed rail;
           Creates a National Infrastructure Bank to 
        better leverage limited transportation dollars.
    On June 24, 2009, the Subcommittee reported the bill 
favorably to the Committee by voice vote. No further action was 
taken on this legislation.

      The Surface Transportation Earmark Rescission, Savings, and 
                           Accountability Act


                              (H.R. 5730)


                   Passed the House on July 27, 2010

    H.R. 5730 rescinds $713.208 million of Federal-aid highway 
contract authority from 309 Member-designated high priority 
projects from four prior surface transportation authorization 
acts, including every surface transportation authorization act 
of the past two decades.
    Specifically, the bill: rescinds all remaining highway 
earmarks ($4.55 million for 2 projects) designated in the 
Surface Transportation and Uniform Relocation Assistance Act of 
1987 (STURAA) (P.L. 100-17); rescinds all remaining highway 
earmarks ($263.543 million for 154 projects) designated in the 
Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 
(ISTEA) (P.L. 102-240); rescinds all highway projects ($441.475 
million for 152 projects) designated in the Transportation 
Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA 21) (P.L. 105-178) that 
have not obligated at least 10 percent of the funds authorized 
for the project; and rescinds all High Priority Project program 
funds ($8.190 million for 1 project) authorized by SAFETEA-LU 
(P.L. 109-59) that were not designated for use on a specific 
project.
    Additionally, the bill repeals a corridor designation under 
the Appalachian Development Highway System program. The bill 
also requires the Secretary of Transportation to submit an 
annual report on highway earmarks that have inactive funds.

                 The Surface Transportation Savings Act


                              (H.R. 5604)


                   Passed the House on July 20, 2010

    H.R. 5604 rescinds $106.8 million in excess contract 
authority that NHTSA and the Federal Transit Administration 
(FTA) cannot use in FY 2010. Specifically, the bill: Rescinds 
$81 million from NHTSA's safety belt performance grant program; 
rescinds $8.5 million from NHTSA's administrative expenses, 
National Driver Register program, and research and development 
programs; and rescinds $17.4 million from FTA's formula and bus 
grant programs.

            The Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2009


                              (H.R. 3617)


                 Passed the House on September 23, 2009

    The Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2009 called for 
the extension of Federal highway, highway safety, public 
transportation, motor carrier safety, surface transportation 
research programs and policies authorized by the Safe, 
Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A 
Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU) through December 31, 2009. The 
authorizations for Federal surface transportation programs 
expired on September 29, 2009. Funding for these programs and 
policies was subsequently provided through a series of 
Continuing Resolutions and passage of the Hiring Incentives to 
Restore Employment (HIRE) Act (P.L. 111-147); these funds will 
continue through December 31, 2010.

              The State Ethics Law Protection Act of 2010


                              (H.R. 3427)


                 Passed the House on September 28, 2010

    H.R. 3427 provides that a State may not be considered to 
have violated the FHWA statutory requirements under 23 U.S.C. 
Sec. 112(b) solely because of enactment of a State or local law 
prohibiting ``pay-to-play''.
    Some States have enacted statutes (``anti-pay-to-play 
laws'') limiting the amount of money that an individual or 
entity doing business with a State agency may contribute to a 
political party, campaign, or elected official. FHWA has 
interpreted State anti-pay-to-play laws as potentially 
conflicting with the competitive bidding requirements that 
apply to the use of Federal-aid highway funds in 23 U.S.C. 
Sec. 112(b). FHWA has threatened to withhold Federal highway 
funds from States that enacted anti-pay-to-play laws that apply 
to contracts on Federal-aid highway projects.
    H.R. 3427 provides that a State will not be considered to 
have violated FHWA bidding requirements solely because the 
State enacted an anti-pay-to-play law.

         The Residential and Commuter Toll Fairness Act of 2010


                              (H.R. 3960)


                 Passed the House on September 28, 2010

    H.R. 3960 clarifies the existing authority of, and as 
necessary provides express authorization for, public entities 
to offer residentially-based toll discounts to ``captive 
tollpayers'' who reside in, or regularly commute to, areas with 
geographically-constrained transportation access--e.g., 
communities on islands or peninsulas accessed only by toll 
bridges--that requires the payment of transportation tolls or 
fares and thus bear heavy toll burdens. Nothing in H.R. 3960 
limits any other existing authorities possessed by these public 
authorities, including the authority to offer toll discounts to 
other travelers. H.R. 3960 also clarifies that nothing in the 
Act affects, alters, or limits the applicability of existing 
State or local laws regarding the authority to impose toll 
discounts.

                Horse Transportation Safety Act of 2009


                               (H.R. 305)


            Reported Favorably to the House on July 29, 2010

    This legislation prohibits a person from transporting a 
horse in interstate commerce in a motor vehicle containing two 
or more levels stacked on top of one another. It also sets 
forth civil penalties for persons who knowingly violate such 
prohibition.

     National Park Service Authorities and Corrections Act of 2009


                              (H.R. 3804)


                  Passed the House on December 7, 2009

    H.R. 3804 makes technical corrections to various Acts 
affecting the National Park Service (NPS) and also authorizes a 
land exchange between the George Washington Memorial Parkway 
and Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to reflect an 
agreement signed by the two agencies. The FHWA's Turner-
Fairbank Highway Research Center is adjacent to the GW Parkway, 
and FHWA has allowed the use of a road on the Center's property 
to provide access to the popular Claude Moore Colonial Farm, 
which is inside the parkway boundaries. FHWA has agreed to 
transfer to NPS a parcel of less than an acre that is needed to 
keep access to the farm open; in exchange, NPS has agreed to 
transfer to FHWA a strip of land outside the perimeter fence of 
the research center, and to restrict use on another parcel.

 To Direct the Secretary of Transportation To Update a Research Report 
 and Issue Guidance to the States With Respect to Reducing Lighting on 
 the Federal-Aid System During Periods of Low Traffic Density, and for 
                             Other Purposes


                              (H.R. 1997)


         Reported Favorably to the House on September 22, 2010

    This legislation directs the Secretary, acting through the 
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and in cooperation with 
the American Association of State Highway and Transportation 
Officials (AASHTO), to update a FHWA research report entitled 
``Reduced Lighting on Freeways During Periods of Low Traffic 
Density.'' This report was released in August 1985.
    In updating the report, H.R. 1997 instructs the Secretary 
to address issues of optimal times and conditions for reduced 
lighting; appropriate lighting levels for various roads and 
road features; appropriate manner in which to carry out reduced 
lighting; energy savings and reduction in greenhouse gases that 
may result from reduced lighting; and any legal issues relating 
to reducing lighting, including the development of such issues 
since the release of the original research report in 1985.
    This bill instructs the Secretary, within 180 days of 
enactment, to issue guidance to the States with respect to 
reducing lighting on the Federal-aid system during periods of 
low traffic density based on the findings of the updated 
research report.

                               Hearings 

    During the 111th Congress, the Subcommittee on Highways and 
Transit held 13 hearings and one Members' roundtable.

     Energy Reduction and Environmental Sustainability in Surface 
                            Transportation 

    On January 27, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on approaches for addressing energy usage and 
environmental sustainability in surface transportation. This 
hearing was part of the Subcommittee's effort to prepare for 
the reauthorization of Federal surface transportation programs 
under SAFETEA-LU, which expired on September 20, 2009. The 
Subcommittee received testimony from a State Secretary of 
Transportation, a general manager of a metropolitan transit 
agency, a representative of local government, a representative 
of an environmental organization, a director of urban and land 
use policy for a think tank, and a number of representatives 
from industries that offer methods for improving environmental 
sustainability in the nation's infrastructure.
    Currently, the U.S. is the world's largest energy consumer 
and largest greenhouse gas (GHG) emitter. According to the 
Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of 
Energy, approximately 30 percent of the United States' 
greenhouse gas emissions are produced by mobile sources. 
Private vehicles are the largest contributor to household 
``carbon foot prints''--accounting for 55 percent of carbon 
emissions from U.S. households, while 85 percent of 
transportation sector emissions are related to the surface 
transportation system. The U.S. is responsible for one-quarter 
of the 85 million barrels of petroleum consumed worldwide every 
day.
    With the nation's population expected to grow from 
approximately 300 million today to 420 million by 2050 and 
freight volumes expected to grow by 70 percent by 2020, future 
demands on the intermodal surface transportation network will 
require implementation of a variety of approaches to address 
the challenges of the 21st Century.

         Confronting Freight Challenges in Southern California 

    On February 20, 2009, the Subcommittee on Highways and 
Transit and the Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and 
Hazardous Materials held a joint field hearing in Los Angeles, 
California, to receive testimony on the challenges facing the 
Southern California region due to the movement of freight. The 
Subcommittees heard testimony from the Executive Directors of 
the Port of Long Beach and the Port of Los Angeles, 
representatives from three local and regional governmental 
organizations, a labor representative for workers at the ports, 
trucking industry representatives and independent owners and 
operators, as well as representatives from the two largest 
railroads serving the ports.
    The Subcommittees also discussed the ports' efforts to 
reduce emissions from port-related activities, including from 
trucks that provide drayage services at the ports. 
Specifically, the hearing examined the ports' effort to invest 
in infrastructure to increase efficiency and expand 
transportation options for moving freight through the ports and 
the region. The hearing also examined the ports' adoption of 
the San Pedro Bay Ports Clean Air Action Plan, including the 
Plan's ``Clean Trucks'' program.
    The Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach are adjacent port 
facilities located on San Pedro Bay in Southern California. 
Together, they constitute the fifth busiest port complex in the 
world, moving some $260 billion in total trade, including 
handling 14.33 million 20-foot containers (commonly referred to 
as twenty-foot equivalent units or TEUs) in 2009. The ports 
handle approximately 40 percent of all the containers entering 
the United States.
    Air pollution from international goods movement activities 
at the ports is a major public health problem for the Southern 
California area. The Southern California region has 
consistently ranked as having the worst air quality and 
congestion in the nation. California's transportation sector is 
the leading source of GHG emissions in the state, contributing 
over 40 percent of the state's annual GHG emissions.
    To mitigate the growing congestion levels on Southern 
California roadways and environmental damages threatening local 
health and safety, state, local and regional governments have 
undertaken a number of policy and infrastructure initiatives. 
These initiatives range from investments in expanded highway 
and freight rail infrastructure capacity to innovative 
initiatives to reduce emissions from port-related vehicles. At 
the hearing, the Subcommittees heard from several witnesses on 
the steps taken to reduce congestion and the environmental and 
societal impacts of freight movement, and the role that the 
Federal Government can play in facilitating goods movement.

                     High Priority Project Program

    On April 28, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on specific High Priority Project (HPP) 
requests of Members of Congress. The hearing provided an 
opportunity for Members to provide information to the 
Subcommittee and to the public about the HPPs that they planned 
to request in the Surface Transportation Authorization Act of 
2009. The hearing is part of the Committee's effort to ensure 
greater transparency and accountability in the upcoming surface 
transportation authorization legislation.
    As part of the Committee's initiative to dramatically 
increase transparency and accountability in the HPP process, 
the Committee requires all projects to meet eligibility 
criteria under Title 23 (Highways) or Chapter 53 of Title 49 
(Public Transit) of the United States Code to ensure that HPPs 
comply with highway and transit program objectives. In 
addition, the Committee specifically prohibits HPP funding for 
non-surface transportation projects, such as funding of 
transportation museums, horse trails, historic battlefields, 
and other non-transportation projects.
    The Committee requires Members to provide specific 
information on the type, location, total cost, percentage of 
total cost that the request would finance, and benefits of the 
project, in order for the Committee to effectively analyze the 
merits of project requests.
    The new Committee HPP guidelines also require Members to 
specifically identify funding to finance at least 80 percent of 
the total cost of the phase or segment of the project requested 
through either (1) the amount requested by the Member; or (2) 
the amount requested by the Member and other specifically 
designated Federal, state, local, or private funding sources. 
The intent of this provision is to increase the likelihood that 
construction of the project will be underway during the term of 
the Act. To ensure that HPPs have significant state or local 
support, the Committee requires Members to provide at least one 
letter of support for the project from the state Department of 
Transportation or affected local government or governmental 
agency.

  The Importance of Long-Term Surface Transportation Authorization in 
                      Sustaining Economic Recovery

    On July 16, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the importance of a long-term surface 
transportation authorization in sustaining economic recovery. 
The Subcommittee received testimony from the Under Secretary of 
Policy of the U.S. Department of Transportation, as well as 
representatives from the highway and transit construction 
associations and a motor coach manufacturer. Witnesses 
discussed the broad economic benefits and job creation that is 
driven by investments in the nation's infrastructure.
    With the current Federal surface transportation 
authorization, SAFETEA-LU, set to expire on September 30, 2009, 
this hearing examined the critical role a long-term 
authorization would play in creating and sustaining employment 
opportunities and economic activity.

              Addressing the Problem of Distracted Driving

    On October 29, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the impact of distracted driving on 
roadway safety. Witnesses discussed efforts and options for 
combating distracted driving, and integrating emerging 
technologies in a manner that does not jeopardize roadway 
safety. This hearing was part of the Subcommittee's effort to 
authorize Federal surface transportation programs. The 
Subcommittee heard testimony from the Secretary of 
Transportation, a state highway safety administrator, 
representatives from academia, the wireless industry, the 
trucking industry, a labor union, and highway safety advocates.
    Distracted driving--or driving while engaging in behavior 
or activities that interfere with operation of a vehicle or 
divert the attention of the driver--has become recognized as a 
growing roadway safety concern. According to the National 
Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2008, 5,870 
people lost their lives and an estimated 515,000 people were 
injured in police-reported crashes in which at least one form 
of driver distraction was reported on the crash report. Driver 
distraction was reported to have been involved in 16 percent of 
all fatal crashes in 2008, according to data from the Fatality 
Analysis Reporting System (FARS), increasing from 12 percent in 
2004.
    There are a wide array of activities that cause vehicle 
operators' attention to be diverted away from the primary task 
of driving, which has the potential to cause or contribute to a 
crash. Much of the recent focus on this issue has been on the 
impact of the introduction of greater technology--both in-
vehicle systems and communication devices such as cell phones--
which have grown quickly during the past decade.
    On October 1, 2009, President Obama signed an Executive 
Order directing Federal employees not to engage in text 
messaging while driving government-owned vehicles, when using 
electronic equipment supplied by the government while driving, 
or while driving privately-owned vehicles when on official 
government business.
    Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood also announced DOT's 
intention to develop three separate rulemakings to combat 
distracted driving in the rail, truck, and bus industries. DOT 
intends to ban text messaging and restrict the use of cell 
phones by truck and interstate bus operators, and to suspend 
and revoke the Commercial Driver Licenses of school bus drivers 
convicted of texting while driving.

           Public Transit Safety: Examining the Federal Role

    On December 8, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on DOT's role in ensuring the safety of 
public transit systems, and to specifically examine the Obama 
administration's proposed legislation to significantly change 
the State Safety Oversight (SSO) program while increasing the 
Federal Transit Administration's (FTA) safety oversight and 
funding role. The hearing was part of the Subcommittee's effort 
to reauthorize Federal surface transportation programs under 
SAFETEA-LU. The Subcommittee heard from the Secretary of 
Transportation, the Administrator of FTA, the Managing Director 
of the Government Accountability Office (GAO), the Director of 
Rail Transit Safety of the National Transportation Safety Board 
(NTSB), the Director of a state safety oversight agency, and 
the President of a public transportation association.
    In 2008, Americans took 10.7 billion unlinked transit 
passenger trips on public transportation systems, representing 
the highest transit ridership levels in 52 years. In addition 
to increasing in use, rail transit continues to be one of the 
safest modes of transportation. Transit agencies have fewer 
fatalities and injuries than does any other mode of travel. 
Nevertheless, a number of high profile transit accidents in 
recent years (e.g., Chicago, Boston, San Francisco, and 
Washington, D.C.) have highlighted several weaknesses in the 
current state of rail transit safety. According to FTA, more 
than one-third of the total assets of the largest rail systems 
are in either marginal or poor condition. Data contained in the 
U.S. Department of Transportation's 2006 Conditions and 
Performance Report indicate that 16 percent of elevated transit 
structures, 13 percent of underground transit tunnels, and 
eight percent of transit track is in substandard condition. 
This results in an estimated $80 billion maintenance backlog 
for the nation's rail transit systems.
    Public transit systems, however, are not directly regulated 
by FTA and there are no nationwide mandatory minimum standards 
for rail transit safety, only voluntary standard produced by 
industry associations. In fact, FTA is statutorily barred from 
regulating the operations of any public transportation system, 
except for purposes of national defense or in the event of a 
national or regional emergency. In lieu of direct Federal 
oversight of rail transit or the authority to issue unified 
Federal safety standards, FTA oversees 26 separate and distinct 
state transit safety programs operating in 27 different states 
with inconsistent safety practices and effectiveness. This 
current state-based system is known as the ``State Safety 
Oversight'' (SSO) program.

   Using Innovative Financing To Deliver Highway and Transit Projects

    On April 14, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on innovative financing practices in surface 
transportation project delivery. The Subcommittee heard from 
the Assistant Secretary for Budget and Programs and Chief 
Financial Officer of the United States Department of 
Transportation, the Secretary of the North Carolina Department 
of Transportation, the General Manager and Chief Executive 
Officer of Denver's Regional Transportation District, the Chief 
Executive Officer of the Los Angeles County Metropolitan 
Transit Authority, and the President of a consulting firm 
specializing in the financing of transportation infrastructure 
projects. This hearing was part of the Subcommittee's effort to 
reauthorize Federal surface transportation programs under 
SAFETEA-LU.
    Adequate investment in surface transportation 
infrastructure is critical to the nation's economic growth, 
competitiveness in the world marketplace, and the quality of 
life in our communities. Delivering successful transportation 
projects requires both sustained and reliable levels of 
funding, as well as access to sufficient financing mechanisms. 
Traditionally, highway and public transit investments have been 
funded through a combination of Federal, state, and local 
public funds. In addition, private funds have been used to 
augment and leverage public funds for certain types of 
transportation projects.
    Current public investments in surface transportation are 
not adequate to meet the needs of the system. According to the 
U.S. Department of Transportation's 2008 Status of the Nation's 
Highways, Bridges, and Transit: Conditions and Performance 
report, over the next 20 years, an additional:
           $27 billion per year from all levels of 
        government is needed simply to sustain highway 
        conditions and performance;
           $96 billion per year from all levels of 
        government is needed to make all cost-beneficial 
        highway improvements and to eliminate the backlog of 
        bridge deficiencies;
           $15.1 billion per year in capital 
        investments from all levels of government are necessary 
        to maintain the current average transit asset 
        conditions and current transit vehicle occupancy 
        levels; and
           $21.1 billion per year in capital investment 
        from all levels of government are necessary to improve 
        transit conditions and performance.
    Compounding the state, local, and private sector funding 
and financing shortfalls is the lack of a long-term 
reauthorization of the Federal surface transportation programs. 
This severely limits the ability of the Federal Government to 
provide increased funding and innovative financing tools to 
achieve the needed investments in the nation's surface 
transportation systems. Addressing the Federal surface 
transportation funding and financing challenges is critical, 
and the hearing focused specifically on innovative financing 
tools and programs that can assist in successfully delivering 
highway and transit projects.
    At the hearing, the Subcommittee received testimony from 
witnesses that outlined past uses of innovative finance 
techniques as well as proposed uses for the future that could 
potentially assist in overcoming the substantial investment gap 
facing the nation's infrastructure. Witnesses also testified 
regarding several significant risks and unintended consequences 
resulting from poorly structured innovative financing 
agreements in the past and the impact that these types of 
arrangements can have on the public benefit over the life of 
the entire agreement.

Assessing the Implementation and Impacts of the Clean Truck Programs at 
           the Port of Los Angeles and the Port of Long Beach

    On May 5, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to receive 
testimony on the clean truck programs at the Port of Los 
Angeles and the Port of Long Beach. The Subcommittee heard from 
the Deputy Executive Directors of the Port of Los Angeles and 
the Port of Long Beach; affected parties at the ports including 
a licensed motor carrier, an independent drayage driver, and 
representatives of trucking associations; and labor and 
environmental organizations.
    The Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach are located in the 
South Coast Air Basin air district, as designated by the State 
of California to monitor air quality pursuant to the 
requirements of the Clean Air Act. This air district is 
consistently rated as having some of the worst air quality in 
the nation. Specifically, the South Coast Air Basin is 
designated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as 
a nonattainment area for National Ambient Air Quality Standards 
for both ozone and particulate matter less than 2.5 microns (PM 
2.5).
    Diesel particulate matter has been found by the California 
Air Resources Board (CARB) to pose significant health risks. 
According to CARB assessments, each year in California, diesel 
particulate matter contributes to 3,500 premature deaths, 250 
cases of lung cancer, and thousands of hospital admissions and 
lost workdays.
    To address these environmental and public health concerns 
and to allow the ports to continue to grow, in November 2006, 
the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach adopted a plan, 
entitled the ``San Pedro Bay Ports Clean Air Action Plan'' 
(Clean Air Action Plan), for reducing emissions of air 
pollutants at the ports. The Plan's components are expected to 
cut diesel particulate matter emissions from port-related 
sources by 47 percent within five years. The Plan is also 
expected to reduce emissions of nitrogen oxide by 45 percent, 
and reduce emissions of sulfur oxide by 52 percent.
    On October 1, 2008, as a component of the Clean Air Action 
Plan, the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach each launched 
clean truck programs. The goal of these programs is to reduce 
the emissions of trucks servicing the ports by more than 80 
percent below pre-program emissions levels by 2012. These 
reductions are to be achieved through a phased-in ban of older, 
polluting trucks that have not been retrofitted with emissions 
control technologies.
    Under the Clean Truck program at the Port of Los Angeles, 
as of October 1, 2008, all trucks manufactured prior to 1989 
are prohibited entry to the port. On January 1, 2010, the port 
banned any trucks manufactured prior to 2003 that had not been 
retrofitted, but granted a 120-day extension through April 30, 
2010, for trucking companies or drivers who had a clean truck 
on order. By January 1, 2012, any truck, regardless of age, 
that is not in compliance with the 2007 Federal Environmental 
Protection Agency emissions standards will be banned from the 
port.
    The Los Angeles Clean Truck program was designed to limit 
access to the port to only those trucks and motor carriers 
operating under concession agreements with the port. Under the 
terms of the program as initially envisioned, licensed motor 
carriers would have been required to meet safety and security 
requirements and pay various fees, as well as register their 
trucks with the port. The Port of Los Angeles, under its 
program as initially developed, proposed to offer concession 
agreements only to motor carriers whose drivers are direct 
employees of the motor carrier, not independent contractors.
    Since October 1, 2008, the Port of Long Beach has banned 
the entry of trucks of model year 1988 and older as part of the 
port's Clean Trucks program. Since January 1, 2010, trucks of 
model year 1993 and older have been forbidden from serving the 
Port of Long Beach, along with trucks from model years 1994 
through 2003 that have not been retrofitted with emissions 
control technology. Beginning January 1, 2012, any truck not 
meeting the model year 2007 Federal emission standards will be 
prohibited from serving the Port of Long Beach. The Long Beach 
Clean Trucks program differs from the program developed by the 
Port of Los Angeles in that the Long Beach program did not 
propose to require a motor carrier to use employee drivers to 
qualify for a concession agreement.
    Both plans have faced legal challenges. The implementation 
and legal issues regarding each plan were discussed at this 
hearing, and the Subcommittee received testimony from a variety 
of witnesses involved in the ports' plans to address the 
environmental impacts of increased freight volume on the 
communities surrounding the ports.

 Using Practical Design and Context-Sensitive Solutions in Developing 
                    Surface Transportation Projects

    On June 10, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the use of practical design and context-
sensitive solutions to develop highway and road projects. The 
Subcommittee heard from the Federal Highway Administration 
(FHWA), the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, the 
Chair of the Clackamas County, Oregon Board of Commissioners, a 
professor of civil engineering at the University of Kentucky; 
and transportation consultants with engineering firms. This 
hearing was part of the Subcommittee's effort to reauthorize 
Federal surface transportation programs under SAFETEA-LU.
    The Federal Government and state and local governments make 
significant annual investments in highways and bridges. In 
2006, all levels of government spent $161.1 billion on our 
nation's highways. The safety and efficiency of travel along 
these highways is directly impacted by the standards to which 
they are designed and constructed.
    According to FHWA, the context-sensitive solutions (CSS) 
process is generally considered to be an approach to designing 
and delivering projects that ``considers the total context 
within which a transportation improvement project will exist.'' 
Traditionally, transportation design has placed principal 
importance on vehicular throughput (i.e., moving traffic). The 
CSS process emphasizes that transportation facilities should 
fit their physical settings and preserve scenic, aesthetic, 
historic, and environmental resources, while maintaining safety 
and mobility.
    Another innovative aspect of delivering highway projects is 
practical design. While some consider practical design to be 
similar to CSS, and practical design can be part of a context-
sensitive approach, practical design is more about planning and 
designing projects to more effectively reach desired objectives 
with cost-efficiency as a principal concern.Utilizing a 
practical design approach focuses on ``right-sizing'' projects 
to more appropriately reflect financial constraints, therefore 
allowing the delivery of a greater number of transportation 
projects.

Comprehensive Safety Analysis 2010: Understanding FMCSA's New System of 
                        Motor Carrier Oversight

    On June 23, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety 
Administration's (FMCSA) new system to oversee motor carriers 
and commercial motor vehicle drivers, known as the 
Comprehensive Safety Analysis 2010 (CSA 2010). The Subcommittee 
received testimony from the Administrator of FMCSA, as well as 
representatives from trucking associations and the Commercial 
Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA).
    FMCSA utilizes several tools to target its monitoring and 
enforcement activities over the motor carrier industry, 
including roadside inspections and safety audits of ``new 
entrants'', or carriers granted new authority to operate, 
within the first 18 months of their operation. These 
enforcement tools will remain in place after the implementation 
of CSA 2010. However, changes will occur regarding the agency's 
primary use of Compliance Reviews (CR) to assess the compliance 
of motor carriers with safety and hazardous materials 
regulations.
    FMCSA cannot conduct CRs of all carriers due to resource 
constraints; currently, on average the agency conducts a CR of 
two percent of carriers annually. In 2009, of the 744,809 motor 
carriers registered with the agency, FMCSA conducted reviews of 
9,817 carriers. An additional 6,404 reviews were conducted by 
State partners. The total of 16,221 CRs represents 2.18 percent 
of the population regulated by the agency.
    To improve motor carrier safety and to reduce the number of 
crashes and fatalities involving large trucks and buses, in 
2004, FMCSA began developing a new enforcement and compliance 
model known as CSA 2010.
    CSA 2010 is designed to allow FMCSA and its State partners 
to have contact with a larger number of motor carriers than 
under the current enforcement and monitoring system, to utilize 
a broader set of data from roadside inspections, to generate 
safety information on more carriers, and to identify and 
correct safety deficiencies among a broader population of 
carriers before they become a serious safety threat. Under CSA 
2010, FMCSA plans to use a new Safety Measurement System (SMS) 
to prioritize and target motor carriers for enforcement and 
interventions.
    FMCSA has conducted pilot tests of this model in nine 
States, and plans full implementation of this model nationwide 
by winter 2010. The agency plans to issue a Notice of Proposed 
Rulemaking to change the way it determines the safety fitness 
of a motor carrier in 2011.
    The Subcommittee received testimony from the FMCSA 
Administrator on the status of CSA 2010 implementation, as well 
as testimony from industry associations regarding their views 
on the new initiative. There was broad agreement among the 
trucking industry and enforcement community witnesses that the 
current model of motor carrier oversight needs to be changed to 
increase effectiveness, to reach more carriers, and to improve 
safety. However, several stakeholder groups expressed concerns 
with certain elements of the proposed CSA 2010 model, including 
States responsible for enforcement and implementation of the 
program.

        Utilization and Impacts of Automated Traffic Enforcement

    On June 30, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the utilization and impacts of automated 
traffic enforcement techniques. The Subcommittee heard from 
representatives from NHTSA, several local elected and law 
enforcement officials, an insurance association, a road safety 
advocacy association, and a motorist association.
    Automated traffic enforcement refers to the use of 
technology to monitor and enforce compliance with traffic 
safety laws. Red-light cameras, which are activated when a 
vehicle remains in an intersection for a set amount of time 
after the light turns red, are the most prevalent form of 
automated traffic enforcement. Speed cameras, which are 
triggered when a passing vehicle exceeds the speed limit by a 
predetermined amount, are becoming more common, although they 
are still less prevalent than red-light cameras. According to 
the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, red-light cameras 
have been implemented in approximately 482 communities across 
the nation, and approximately 57 communities utilize speed 
cameras.
    As automated enforcement techniques have become more 
prevalent, debates have arisen on a number of topics relating 
to its use. Foremost among these debates is whether automated 
enforcement systems are used primarily for safety improvements, 
or if their primary purpose is to serve as revenue-generators.
    Automated enforcement generates revenue for private-sector 
photo enforcement vendors and public sector entities including 
law enforcement and highway safety departments. Photo 
enforcement systems often become controversial when the laws 
regarding the length of a yellow-light are not adhered to, when 
fines increase rapidly in a short period of time, or when photo 
enforcement becomes primarily focused on raising revenue, 
rather than improving safety and aiding law enforcement 
efforts. The Subcommittee heard from witnesses who supported 
and opposed these enforcement techniques.

    Oversight of the Highway Bridge Program and the National Bridge 
                           Inspection Program

    On July 21, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony regarding oversight by FHWA of the Federal 
Highway Bridge Program (HBP) and the National Bridge Inspection 
Program (NBIP). The Subcommittee heard testimony from the U.S. 
Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General (DOT 
IG), FHWA, GAO, and the American Association of State Highway 
and Transportation Officials. This hearing was part of the 
Subcommittee's effort to prepare for the reauthorization of 
Federal surface transportation programs under SAFETEA-LU.
    According to the latest published data compiled by FHWA, as 
of December 2009, 149,647 of the nation's 603,245 public road 
bridges (approximately 25 percent) were classified as 
deficient, including 71,179 structurally deficient bridges and 
78,468 functionally obsolete bridges. According to a September 
2008 GAO report on the HBP, the number of deficient bridges 
declined by nearly 12 percent from 1998 through 2007, even with 
the addition of more than 16,000 new bridges to the National 
Bridge Inventory.
    After the collapse of the I-35W highway bridge in 
Minneapolis, Minnesota, the DOT IG, at the request of the 
Secretary of Transportation, conducted two evaluations of 
FHWA's management of bridge safety and oversight of the Federal 
HBP. Those evaluations, as well as a 2006 DOT IG audit, 
collectively document deficiencies related to States' and 
FHWA's management and oversight of various aspects of the NBIP 
and HBP.
    Overall, these evaluations have uncovered significant 
examples of States' failure to properly load rate, post, or 
close bridges as required by the National Bridge Inspection 
Standards. The DOT IG also documented serious weaknesses in 
Federal oversight, including decentralized and inconsistent 
FHWA oversight and evaluation of state compliance with the NBIP 
and widespread deficiencies in the quality of National Bridge 
Inventory data. Furthermore, the DOT IG noted FHWA's current 
inability to effectively identify and respond to national 
bridge safety priorities, track effectiveness of HBP funding, 
or strategically establish and evaluate progress against 
national bridge priorities.
    This hearing assessed the progress being made at the state 
level to implement the DOT IG recommendations and improve 
safety on the nation's extensive bridge inventory.

  

                       Summary of Activities for

             the Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and

                          Hazardous Materials

    During the 111th Congress, the Subcommittee on Railroads, 
Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials, chaired by Representative 
Corrine Brown, with Representative Bill Shuster serving as 
Ranking Member, held 13 hearings, including one joint hearing 
with the Subcommittee on Highways and Transit, and one Members' 
roundtable, (111 witnesses and approximately 41 hours) covering 
the breadth of issues within the jurisdiction of the 
Subcommittee.
    The Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure 
developed major legislation, H.R. __, the ``Surface 
Transportation Authorization Act of 2009'', to reauthorize 
Federal surface transportation programs and provide $450 
billion over six years for surface transportation programs and 
$50 billion for development of high-speed rail. On June 24, 
2009, the Subcommittee on Highways and Transit reported the 
bill favorably to the Committee by voice vote. No further 
action was taken on this legislation.
    The Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure also 
developed separate legislation to reauthorize the Pipeline and 
Hazardous Materials Safety Administration's (PHMSA's) hazardous 
materials safety program and establish safety measures designed 
to ensure the safe transport of hazardous material in all modes 
of transportation. On November 4, 2009, Chairman James L. 
Oberstar introduced H.R. 4016, the ``Hazardous Material 
Transportation Safety Act of 2009''. On November, 19, 2009, the 
Committee ordered H.R. 4016, as amended, reported favorably to 
the House by voice vote. No further action was taken on the 
legislation.
    The following resolutions were enacted in the 111th 
Congress:
           H. Res. 367, supporting the goals and ideals 
        of National Train Day,
           H. Res. 484, expressing support for 
        designation of June 10th as ``National Pipeline Safety 
        Day'',
           H. Res. 1278, in support and recognition of 
        National Safe Digging Month, April, 2010,
           H. Res. 1301, supporting the goals and 
        ideals of National Train Day,
           H. Res. 1366, recognizing and honoring the 
        freight railroad industry and its employees, and
           H. Res. 1463, supporting the goals and 
        ideals of Railroad Retirement Day.
    Bills that passed the House include:
           H.R. 6008, the ``Corporate Liability and 
        Emergency Accident Notification Act''.

                      Public Laws and Resolutions


         Supporting the Goals and Ideals of National Train Day


                             (H. Res. 367)


                              May 6, 2009

    H. Res. 367 recognizes the House of Representatives' 
support for National Train Day and the contribution that trains 
make to the national transportation system. May 9, 2009 is 
designated as National Train Day because it marked the 140th 
anniversary of the ``golden spike'' being driven into the final 
tie at Promontory Summit, Utah, to complete the first 
transcontinental railroad.

Expressing Support for Designation of June 10th as ``National Pipeline 
                              Safety Day''


                             (H. Res. 484)


                              June 9, 2009

    H. Res. 484 expresses support for the designation of June 
10th as ``National Pipeline Safety Day''; encourages State and 
local governments, safety groups, industry, and other pipeline 
stakeholders to promote pipeline safety; and urges individuals 
across the nation to become more aware of the pipelines that 
run through their communities, and to take appropriate safety 
measures to prevent damage to underground pipelines.

           Expressing Support for National Safe Digging Month


                             (H. Res. 1278)


                              May 5, 2010

    H. Res. 1278 expresses support for the designation of April 
2010 as National Safe Digging Month, and encourages all 
homeowners and excavators to call 811 before conducting any 
digging or excavation activities to prevent fatalities, 
injuries, environmental damage, and loss of critical 
infrastructure and services. According to the DOT's Pipeline 
and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, excavation 
damage continues to be a leading cause of serious pipeline 
incidents. More than 256,000 underground utility lines are 
damaged during excavation each year in the United States; 37.5 
percent of which are the result of not calling before digging.

         Supporting the Goals and Ideals of National Train Day


                             (H. Res. 1301)


                              May 5, 2010

    H. Res. 1301 recognizes the House of Representatives' 
support for National Train Day and the contribution that trains 
make to the national transportation system. May 8, 2010, is 
designated by Amtrak as National Train Day because it marks the 
141st anniversary of passenger rail service in the United 
States and commemorates the day that the first transcontinental 
railroad was created. On May 10, 1869, in Promontory Summit, 
Utah, the golden spike was driven into the final tie that 
joined 1,776 miles of the Central Pacific and Union Pacific 
railways, transforming America by creating the nation's first 
transcontinental railroad.

    Recognizing and Honoring the Freight Railroad Industry and Its 
                               Employees


                             (H. Res. 1366)


                             July 27, 2010

    H. Res. 1366 recognizes and honors the freight railroad 
industry and its employees; recognizes its important 
contributions to the national transportation system; and 
supports the efforts of the freight rail industry and its 
employees to continue improving safety as our nation moves 
forward with developing its infrastructure.
    Freight railroads have a long and important history in the 
United States. As early as 1827, freight railroads have aided 
in the expansion and development of this nation, its 
infrastructure and its economy. The first common-carrier 
railroad in North America, the Baltimore ` Ohio (B`O) Railroad, 
was chartered by the State of Maryland in 1827. The B`O 
continued to operate until 1963, when the Chesapeake and Ohio 
Railway took control of the railroad; today, it operates as 
part of CSX Transportation. The B`O was preceded by a few other 
freight railroads including the Granite Railway in 
Massachusetts, which began operations in 1826, and the Mohawk ` 
Hudson Railroad in New York, which was created in 1826 and 
began operations in 1831.
    Since 1830, freight rail has been instrumental in bringing 
American goods to markets both nationally and internationally. 
Today, 43 percent of all intercity freight volume is moved by 
freight rail. Over the past three decades, freight railroads 
have nearly doubled the amount of cargo they ship with 
virtually no increase in fuel consumption. Freight railroads 
are one of the most fuel-efficient modes of transportation; 
they are able to move one ton of freight 480 miles using only 
one gallon of diesel fuel. One train can take 280 trucks off 
the road, the equivalent of 1,100 automobiles.
    Today, the freight rail industry is comprised of more than 
560 railroad companies that operate on 140,000 miles of track 
across the nation. Freight rail carries more than 2.2 billion 
tons of freight annually. The freight rail industry employs 
more than 183,000 people. Since 1980, the freight railroad 
industry has reinvested $460 billion in revenue toward 
equipment, maintenance, and rail expansion, which has supported 
employment and economic activity throughout the United States. 
For every dollar invested in freight rail capacity, the 
national economy experiences $3 in economic output.

       Supporting the Goals and Ideals of Railroad Retirement Day


                             (H. Res. 1463)


                             July 20, 2010

    H. Res. 1463 supports the goals and ideals of Railroad 
Retirement Day, as designated by the U.S. Railroad Retirement 
Board; recognizes the important contributions that the rail 
industry, rail workers, and railroad retirees make to the 
national transportation system; and urges the people of the 
United States to recognize Railroad Retirement Day (August 29, 
2010) as an opportunity to celebrate the success and importance 
of the railroad retirement system to America's working 
families. By the beginning of its 75th year, in 2010, railroad 
retirement benefits had been provided to two million retired 
employees, 1.1 million spouses, and 2.4 million survivors. 
Additional unemployment and sickness benefits have been paid to 
railroad workers who were laid off or injured on the job.

                           Other Legislation


            Surface Transportation Authorization Act of 2009


                               (H.R. __)


    Subcommittee on Highways and Transit Reported Favorably to the 
                       Committee on June 24, 2009

    On June 24, 2009, the Subcommittee on Highways and Transit 
met to mark up H.R. __, the ``Surface Transportation 
Authorization Act of 2009''.
    The Surface Transportation Authorization Act of 2009 
authorizes the nation's highway, highway safety, and public 
transportation programs. This legislation is designed to 
replace the current authorization, the Safe, Accountable, 
Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for 
Users (SAFETEA-LU) (P.L. 109-59), which expired on September 
30, 2009.
    In preparation for authorization of the surface 
transportation programs, the Subcommittee on Highways and 
Transit held more than 30 hearings and six Member briefings in 
the 110th and 111th Congresses to examine various aspects of 
the surface transportation networks or policies.
    Prior to the Subcommittee markup, the bipartisan leadership 
of the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure released 
a white paper, titled ``A Blueprint for Investment and 
Reform'', outlining the new surface transportation 
authorization bill.
    The Surface Transportation Authorization Act of 2009 
transforms the nation's surface transportation programs to 
achieve specific national objectives: reducing fatalities and 
serious injuries on highways; improving mobility and access in 
metropolitan areas; upgrading the freight transportation 
network; expanding the interconnectivity of communities; 
providing transportation choices for commuters and travelers; 
limiting the adverse effects of transportation on the 
environment; and promoting modal choice, public health and the 
livability of our communities.
    The Surface Transportation Authorization Act of 2009 also 
advances the Committee's and President Barack Obama's bold 
vision for development of high-speed rail in the United States. 
The Act provides $50 billion over six years to develop 11 
authorized high-speed rail corridors linking major metropolitan 
regions in the United States. To support this high-speed rail 
initiative, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), acting 
in part through the National Infrastructure Bank, may provide 
grants, loans, loan guarantees, lines of credit, private-
activity bonds, tax-credit bonds, and other financial tools to 
States to invest in construction of these high-speed rail 
corridors. This funding will not be provided from motor vehicle 
fuel user fees of the Highway Trust Fund.
    In addition to addressing high-speed rail, the Surface 
Transportation Authorization Act of 2009 reauthorizes several 
programs, including the Rail Line Relocation program and a 
capital grant program for Class II and Class III railroads, 
that provide funding for freight rail infrastructure 
improvements that, combined with the high-speed rail 
initiative, will help resolve some of our nation's economic, 
energy, environmental, and transportation challenges.
    The Surface Transportation Authorization Act of 2009 also 
makes significant improvements to the Railroad Rehabilitation 
and Improvement Financing loan program by authorizing the 
Secretary of Transportation (Secretary) to reduce the interest 
paid on direct loans provided to loan recipients; authorizing 
the Secretary to allow recipients of direct loans and loan 
guarantees to pay the credit risk premium over the life of the 
loan; allowing recipients of direct loans and loan guarantees 
to provide private insurance, including bond insurance, in lieu 
of credit risk premiums; and requiring recipients of direct 
loans and loan guarantees to comply with Buy America. In 
addition, the bill increases transparency for Buy America 
waivers provided to Amtrak; requires the Secretary to conduct a 
study to determine the optimum separation requirements between 
locomotives and hazardous material cars, and to develop 
regulations based on the results of that study; directs the 
Secretary to transmit a report on the conditions and 
performance of the freight and intercity passenger rail system; 
and makes technical corrections to the Rail Safety Improvement 
Act of 2008 and the Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement 
Act of 2008.
    On June 24, 2009, the Subcommittee on Highways and Transit 
reported the bill favorably to the Committee. No further action 
was taken on this legislation.

          Hazardous Material Transportation Safety Act of 2009


                              (H.R. 4016)


      Ordered Reported Favorably to the House on November 19, 2010

    H.R. 4016, the ``Hazardous Material Transportation Safety 
Act of 2009'', reauthorizes PHMSA's Office of Hazardous 
Materials Safety and establishes safety measures designed to 
ensure the safe transport of hazardous material in all modes of 
transportation and reduce the risks to life and property 
inherent in the commercial transportation of hazardous 
material. The authorization of PHMSA's hazardous material 
safety program expired on September 30, 2008.
    The bill authorizes $273 million over five years to provide 
resources to enable PHMSA to increase hazardous material 
safety, strengthen emergency response capabilities, and 
increase enforcement of hazardous material laws and 
regulations. The bill requires PHMSA to increase personnel by a 
total of 84 full-time employees, including inspectors, by 
fiscal year 2012. The authorization maintains the Hazardous 
Materials Emergency Preparedness (HMEP) grant program at the 
current level of $23.7 million but provides the Secretary with 
the flexibility to use more of the available funding for 
training. Funding for nonprofit organizations to conduct train-
the-trainer programs remains at $5 million.
    The bill requires the Secretary of Transportation 
(Secretary) to prescribe minimum standards for persons who 
provide hazardous material transportation emergency response 
information services. In addition, it enhances training for 
emergency responders. The legislation requires the Secretary to 
establish a national hazardous materials fusion center to serve 
as a data and information network for emergency response 
providers to enhance communication and safety.
    The legislation requires the Administrator of PHMSA, in 
coordination with the Administrator of the Federal Aviation 
Administration (FAA), to issue regulations for the safe 
transportation of lithium cells and batteries on board aircraft 
no later than 24 months after the date of enactment of the 
Hazardous Material Transportation Safety Act of 2009. In part, 
the regulations, at a minimum, must: (1) require proper 
identification of lithium cells and batteries as hazardous 
material on packages and in shipping documents; (2) establish 
requirements for testing and retesting lithium cells and 
batteries that are, at a minimum, equivalent to the United 
Nations testing regime; (3) limit the stowage of lithium cells 
and batteries to crew-accessible locations, unless the 
batteries or cells are transported in a fire-resistant 
container or the aircraft contains a fire suppression system 
capable of extinguishing or controlling a fire involving a 
lithium cell or battery; and (4) require reporting of all 
accidents and incidents involving lithium cells and batteries 
that occur on board an aircraft, during loading or unloading 
operations, or storage incidental to movement and require 
retention of the failed cells or batteries for evaluation.
    Consistent with the National Transportation Safety Board's 
(NTSB) longstanding safety recommendation, H.R. 4106 prohibits 
the transportation of Class 3 flammable liquid in the external 
product piping of all cargo tank motor vehicles manufactured 
two years after the date of enactment of the Act. The bill 
mandates that all existing vehicles are prohibited from 
transporting Class 3 flammable liquid in the external product 
piping of cargo tank motor vehicles on or after December 31, 
2025, and provides the Secretary with authority to grant a 
public interest waiver. The prohibition does not apply to cargo 
tank motor vehicles that employ alternative means to achieve an 
equivalent level of safety.
    This legislation maintains current law authorizing the 
Secretary to issue special permits and approvals but requires 
the Secretary to determine that the person is fit, willing, and 
able to conduct the authorized activity prior to issuance of 
any special permit or approval. Finally, H.R. 4016 directs the 
Secretary to carry out a program to develop uniform forms and 
procedures for States to register, and issue permits to persons 
who transport, or cause to be transported, hazardous material 
by motor vehicle.
    On November, 19, 2009, the Committee ordered H.R. 4016, as 
amended, reported favorably to the House. No further action was 
taken on the legislation.

  The ``Corporate Liability and Emergency Accident Notification Act'' 
                              (CLEAN Act)


                              (H.R. 6008)


                 Passed the House on September 28, 2010

    H.R. 6008, the ``Corporate Liability and Emergency Accident 
Notification Act'' (CLEAN Act), requires the owner or operator 
of a pipeline facility to provide immediate telephonic notice 
to the Secretary of the DOT and the National Response Center at 
the earliest practicable moment following discovery of a 
release of gas or hazardous liquid and no later than one hour 
following the time of discovery. It further instructs the DOT 
to issue guidance within 60 days of the date of enactment to 
clarify the meaning of the term ``discovery'' as it relates to 
the reporting requirement for a leak. The legislation increases 
the maximum civil penalty per violation from $100,000 to 
$250,000 and it increases the maximum civil penalty per 
incident from $1 million to $2.5 million. The legislation also 
expands the scope of civil penalties to include violations for 
acts that obstruct or prevent the Secretary from carrying out 
an inspection or investigation under this chapter. In addition, 
the legislation requires the Secretary to maintain a database 
by December 31, 2010, of all reportable incidents involving gas 
or hazardous liquid pipelines on DOT's website to allow the 
public to search the database for incidents by pipeline owner 
or operator. Finally, this legislation ensures that the 
budgetary effects of H.R. 6008 will be recorded, for purposes 
of the statutory Pay-As-You-Go Act of 2010 (P.L. 111-139), 
based on estimates of the Congressional Budget Office.

                                Hearings

    During the 110th Congress, the Subcommittee on Railroads, 
Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials held 13 hearings and one 
Members' roundtable. Additionally, the Committee on 
Transportation and Infrastructure held three hearings within 
the Subcommittee's jurisdiction.

  Freight and Passenger Rail: Present and Future Roles, Performance, 
                           Benefits and Needs

    On January 28, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the roles of freight and passenger 
railroads in the U.S. economy; the impact of the current 
economic crisis on the railroad industry, its suppliers, and 
employees; the benefits of freight and passenger rail; and 
freight and passenger rail investment needs.
    At the request of the National Surface Transportation 
Policy and Revenue Study Commission, a railroad association 
commissioned an assessment of the capacity of the nation's rail 
system to accommodate the estimated increase in rail freight 
traffic. The assessment, which was discussed at the hearing, 
found the costs of improvements needed to accommodate rail 
freight demand in 2035 is estimated at $148 billion (in 2007 
dollars). The Class I freight railroads' share of this cost is 
projected to be $135 billion and the short line and regional 
freight railroads' share is projected to be $13 billion. Prior 
the economic crisis, the Class I railroads anticipated that 
they would be able to generate about $96 billion of their $135 
billion share through increased earnings from revenue growth, 
higher volumes, and productivity improvements, while continuing 
to renew existing infrastructure and equipment, leaving a 
balance for the Class I freight railroads of $39 billion or 
about $1.4 billion annually to be funded from other sources. 
Witnesses testified that, without this investment, 30 percent 
of the rail miles in primary rail corridors (the preponderance 
of rail freight traffic) will be operating above capacity by 
2035, and another 25 percent will be operating near or at 
capacity. The $96 billion, however, had assumed that the 
railroads could continue increasing investments in capital 
expansion. Due to the economic crisis, railroads are cutting 
back on those investments; rail volumes are sliding 
considerably; and rail employees are being laid off.
    Witnesses also discussed the importance of investing in 
passenger rail. The Passenger Rail Working Group for the 
National Surface Transportation Policy and Revenue Study 
Commission reported in 2007 that the total capital cost 
estimate for re-establishing the national intercity passenger 
rail network between now and 2050 was $357.2 billion (in 2007 
dollars), for an annualized cost of $8.1 billion, about $5 
billion of which the States would request annually from the 
Federal Government. Witnesses focused on the benefits of 
investing in passenger and freight rail.

         Confronting Freight Challenges in Southern California

    On February 20, 2009, the Subcommittee on Highways and 
Transit and the Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and 
Hazardous Materials held a joint field hearing in Los Angeles, 
California, to receive testimony on the challenges facing the 
Southern California region due to the movement of freight. The 
Subcommittees heard testimony from the Executive Directors of 
the Port of Long Beach and the Port of Los Angeles, 
representatives from three local and regional governmental 
organizations, a labor representative for workers at the ports, 
trucking industry representatives and independent owners and 
operators, as well as representatives from the two largest 
railroad operators serving the ports.
    The Subcommittees also discussed the ports' efforts to 
reduce emissions from port-related activities, including from 
trucks that provide drayage services at the ports. 
Specifically, the hearing examined the ports' effort to invest 
in infrastructure to increase efficiency and expand 
transportation options for moving freight through the ports and 
the region. The hearing also examined the ports' adoption of 
the San Pedro Bay Ports Clean Air Action Plan, including the 
Plan's ``Clean Trucks'' program.
    The Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach are adjacent port 
facilities located on San Pedro Bay in Southern California. 
Together, they constitute the fifth busiest port complex in the 
world, moving some $260 billion in total trade, including 
handling 14.33 million 20-foot containers (commonly referred to 
as twenty-foot equivalent units or TEUs) in 2009. This 
represented approximately 40 percent of all the containers 
entering the United States.
    Air pollution from international goods movement activities 
at the ports is a major public health problem for the Southern 
California area. The Southern California region has 
consistently ranked as having the worst air quality and 
congestion in the nation. California's transportation sector is 
the leading source of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the 
state, contributing over 40 percent of the state's annual GHG 
emissions.
    To mitigate the growing congestion levels on the Southern 
California roadways and environmental damages threatening local 
health and safety, state, local and regional governments have 
undertaken a number of policy and infrastructure initiatives. 
These initiatives range from investments in expanded highway 
and freight rail infrastructure capacity to innovative 
initiatives to reduce emissions from port related vehicles. At 
the hearing, the Subcommittees heard from several witnesses on 
the steps taken to reduce congestion and the environmental and 
societal impacts of freight movement, and the role that the 
Federal Government can play in facilitating goods movement.

       Railroad Rehabilitation and Improvement Financing Program

    On April 22, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the Railroad Rehabilitation and 
Improvement Financing (RRIF) program. The hearing focused on 
the importance of the RRIF program in helping States, 
railroads, and shippers finance development of, and 
improvements to, existing railroad infrastructure. In addition, 
the hearing highlighted the problems RRIF applicants face in 
obtaining RRIF loans and ways of improving the RRIF loan 
program in the surface transportation reauthorization bill.
    FRA officials testified that since the creation of the 
program, the FRA has made 22 loans totaling $786.72 million. 
Three of the loans (totaling $381 million) have been repaid in 
full and there have been no defaults on RRIF loans. Some 
railroad witnesses highlighted problems with the timing and 
unpredictability of the program; one witness testified it took 
more than 50 months to secure a RRIF loan from the FRA. The 
hearing specifically addressed the value of the program and 
ways to improve it. FRA officials testified that they were in 
the process of recruiting staff to administer the program. In 
addition, FRA officials testified that they had received a 
significant increase in the number of inquiries about the 
program in light of the economy and widespread problems in the 
credit markets.

    Reauthorization of the Department of Transportation's Hazardous 
                        Materials Safety Program

    On May 14, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to receive 
testimony on reauthorization of DOT's hazardous materials 
safety program. The program was last reauthorized in SAFETEA-
LU. The authorization for DOT's hazardous materials safety 
program expired on September 30, 2008. The purpose of the 
hearing was to review implementation of the SAFETEA-LU 
amendments and prepare for reauthorization of the program.
    Witnesses focused on ways to strengthen the safety of 
transporting hazardous materials, including providing for 
increased training for fire personnel, maintaining the shared 
jurisdiction of DOT and the Department of Labor in protecting 
the safety and health of hazardous materials employees, and 
establishing standards for ensuring the safe transport of 
flammable liquid, such as gasoline, by tank truck.
    Gasoline and diesel fuel can be transported in external 
pipes, or wet lines, situated below cargo tanks on tanker 
trucks. Wet lines are designed to break away at the connection 
point to the tank to prevent the loss of the entire contents of 
the tank. The Chairman of the National Transportation Safety 
Board (NTSB) testified at the hearing that if a wet line is 
full of gasoline or diesel when the breakaway occurs, it can 
release as much as 50 gallons of product, presenting a 
significant fire hazard. The NTSB Chairman testified that this 
safety hazard should be addressed in the legislation.
    At the hearing, PHMSA also unveiled a plan, developed 
jointly with the FAA, to adopt additional safety standards for 
transporting lithium cells and batteries on board passenger and 
cargo aircraft, including requiring that all lithium cells and 
batteries be designated as hazardous material, triggering 
packaging, notification, and marking requirements.
    The NTSB testified that the PHMSA-FAA plan, as drafted, 
would address many of the NTSB's safety concerns with respect 
to transporting lithium cells and batteries on board aircraft.

                    Expanding Passenger Rail Service

    On June 22, 2009, the Subcommittee held a field hearing in 
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to receive testimony on the need for 
expanding passenger rail service across the nation and the 
benefits of expansion.
    Witnesses testified that our nation's transportation system 
is near capacity, with gridlock on our highways and in our 
airspace. In 2006, there were more than three trillion vehicle 
miles traveled, five times the level in 1955. This figure is 
roughly double the nation's total mileage traveled in 1980, and 
more than four times the total mileage traveled in 1957, the 
interstate's first year.
    According to the Texas Transportation Institute's 2007 
Urban Mobility Report, the wasted fuel and time resulting from 
this congestion has translated into a total congestion cost of 
$78.2 billion in 2005--$5.1 billion higher than in 2004. The 
report also found that congestion causes the average peak-
period traveler to spend an extra 38 hours of travel time, 26 
gallons of fuel, and amounts to a cost of $710 per traveler.
    Our nation's airways fared no better. Despite record 
passenger loadings of 765.3 million domestic and international 
passengers in 2007, delays in the nation's aviation system 
delivered a staggering blow to the economy, costing passengers, 
airlines and related businesses $41 billion, according to a 
congressional study. In fiscal year 2008, U.S. airlines 
continued to meet demand, carrying 757.4 million passengers, 
but the impact of unprecedented fuel prices and a recession 
caused airlines to cutback capacity through reductions and 
elimination of routes leaving consumers to vie for fewer 
choices and capacity.
    The DOT witness testified that the resulting increase in 
congestion is ``chronic''. All of the witnesses testified that 
moving passengers to railways can have an immediate impact on 
highways and airways, alleviating congestion, and reducing the 
use of and pollutants from fossil fuels.
    Amtrak has five intercity rail routes in Pennsylvania, and 
the state has higher-than-average passenger rail ridership. 
However, only one route, the Pennsylvanian, provides service 
west of Harrisburg. At the hearing witnesses testified that 
there was a significant need for more passenger rail service in 
Western Pennsylvania.

   High-Speed Rail in the United States: Opportunities and Challenges

    On October 14, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the opportunities and challenges of 
developing high-speed rail in the United States. Witnesses 
focused on the need to increase Federal investment in rail and 
pointed to the discrepancy in historical Federal investment 
between highways, aviation, and intercity passenger rail as a 
major problem. Between 1958 and 2008, nearly $1.3 trillion has 
been invested in our nation's highways and more than $473 
billion in the nation's aviation system. Federal investment in 
passenger rail began in 1971 with the creation of the National 
Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak). Between 1971 and 2008, 
only $53 billion has been invested in passenger rail.

    Reauthorization of the Department of Transportation's Hazardous 
                        Materials Safety Program

    On November 16, 2009, the Subcommittee held a field hearing 
in Baltimore, Maryland, to receive testimony on reauthorization 
of DOT's hazardous materials safety program. The hearing also 
focused on issues addressed in H.R. 4016, the ``Hazardous 
Material Transportation Safety Act of 2009'', particularly 
provisions of the bill addressing wet lines and lithium 
batteries.
    Gasoline and diesel fuel can be transported in external 
pipes, or wet lines, situated below cargo tanks on tanker 
trucks. Wet lines are designed to break away at the connection 
point to the tank to prevent the loss of the entire contents of 
the tank. According to the NTSB, if a wet line is full of 
gasoline or diesel fuel when the breakaway occurs, it can 
release as much as 50 gallons of product, presenting a 
significant fire hazard.
    Section 202 of H.R. 4016 prohibits the transportation of 
Class 3 flammable liquid, such as gasoline, in the external 
product piping (``wet lines'') of all cargo tank motor vehicles 
manufactured two years after the date of enactment. All 
existing vehicles are prohibited from transporting Class 3 
flammable liquid in the external product pipeline of cargo tank 
motor vehicles on or after December 31, 2025. NTSB and DOT 
officials and a labor representative testified in support of 
Section 202. Witnesses representing the tank truck industry 
opposed the provision.
    Section 201 of the bill requires DOT to issue regulations 
for the safe transportation of lithium cells and batteries on 
board aircraft. The regulations, at a minimum, must: (1) 
require proper identification of lithium cells and batteries as 
hazardous material on packages and in shipping documents; (2) 
establish requirements for testing and retesting lithium cells 
and batteries; (3) provide for an appropriate marking that 
indicates compliance with testing requirements; (4) adopt a 
watt-hours requirement for easily understandable hazard levels; 
(5) establish limits on the number of packages that may be 
transported in a unit load device, pallet, or crew-accessible 
locations, unless the batteries or cells are transported in a 
fire-resistant container or the aircraft is equipped with 
appropriate fire-suppression systems; and (8) requires 
reporting of all accidents and incidents involving lithium 
cells and batteries. The section provides exceptions for small 
quantities of batteries that are shipped on board aircraft for 
the personal use of the receiver of the shipment, and maintains 
the exceptions in current regulations for passengers, 
crewmembers, and air operators. The legislation mirrored the 
joint PHMSA-FAA plan to adopt additional safety standards for 
transporting lithium cells and batteries on board passenger and 
cargo aircraft, which was unveiled at the Subcommittee's May 
14, 2009 hearing. NTSB and DOT officials and representatives of 
labor organizations testified in support of Section 202. A 
witness representing U.S. air carriers testified in opposition 
to the provision.

         High-Speed Rail Grants Awarded Under the Recovery Act

    On April 20, 2010, the Subcommittee held a field hearing in 
Chicago, Illinois, on the high-speed intercity passenger rail 
(HSIPR) grants awarded under the American Recovery and 
Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Recovery Act) (P.L. 111-5). On 
January 28, 2010, President Barack Obama announced the awards 
for the $8 billion provided under the Recovery Act for HSIPR 
projects across the United States.
    The awards covered 13 large-scale high-speed rail corridors 
across the country. The major corridors are part of a total of 
31 states receiving investments, including smaller projects and 
planning work that will help lay the groundwork for future 
HSIPR service. In the West, seven projects received a total of 
$2.94 billion. In the Midwest, nine projects received a total 
of $2.62 billion. In the Northeast, eight projects received a 
total of $485 million. In the Southeast, five projects received 
a total of $1.88 billion. Only two states requested funding for 
high-speed rail express service or emerging high-speed rail; 
both projects were funded. Florida was awarded $1.25 billion 
for a new high-speed rail corridor between Tampa and Orlando 
with trains running up to 168 miles per hour. California was 
awarded $2.25 billion for its planned project to connect Los 
Angeles to San Francisco and points in between with trains 
running up to 220 miles per hour.
    The hearing focused on the need for increased investment in 
passenger and high-speed rail and State plans for improving 
high-speed rail service with the Recovery Act grants. The 
hearing also focused on the selection process that the FRA used 
to make the awards. FRA officials testified in detail about 
their selection process, including how they established a 
review panel to ensure consistency in their decisions. Further, 
FRA officials defended their selections as meeting the intent 
of both the Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act and 
the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act by selecting both 
high-speed projects as well as those designed to improve speeds 
and service on intercity passenger rail routes, such as in the 
Midwest corridor.

                 Intermodal High-Speed Rail Connections

    On May 3, 2010, the Subcommittee held a field hearing in 
Miami, Florida, to receive testimony on intermodal high-speed 
rail connections. This hearing followed up on the April 20, 
2010 hearing on high-speed intercity passenger rail grants 
awarded under the Recovery Act and focused on how investments 
in passenger rail service can create an intermodal 
transportation network.
    The hearing focused on Florida as an example of a state's 
efforts to create a comprehensive intermodal transportation 
network and the benefits that can potentially be derived from 
such a network. Alternatively, it also highlighted weak links 
in a system when the network is planned by mode or facility and 
not with connections between modes, airports, and seaports.
    Witnesses from the Orlando International and Miami 
International airports highlighted the benefits that high-speed 
rail connectivity will bring to the state. In addition, 
testimony from the cruise lines, commuter railroads, and Amtrak 
supported the idea of interconnectivity as the high-speed rail 
corridor is developed. The hearing was also designed to 
highlight the importance of a provision of H.R. __ the 
``Surface Transportation Authorization Act of 2009'', that 
establishes an Office of Intermodalism within DOT that would be 
tasked with creating a national strategic transportation plan.

Implementation of the Pipeline Inspection, Protection, Enforcement and 
 Safety Act of 2006 and Reauthorization of the Pipeline Safety Program

    On May 20, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to receive 
testimony on the efforts of PHMSA to implement the Pipeline 
Inspection, Protection, Enforcement and Safety Act of 2006 
(P.L. 109-468) in preparation for reauthorization of the 
pipeline safety program, which expired on September 30, 2010. 
The hearing focused on the substantial progress PHMSA had made 
in implementing the law and suggestions for items to include in 
a reauthorization bill.

  The Safety of Hazardous Liquid Pipelines: Regulated vs. Unregulated 
                               Pipelines

    On June 29, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the regulation of pipelines, exemptions 
from regulation, and any gaps that exist in the current statute 
or regulations.
    PHMSA has jurisdiction over the safety of the nation's 
pipeline system. However, PHMSA authorizes certain states to 
conduct oversight of intrastate and interstate pipelines in 
lieu of Federal oversight. When this occurs, the states must 
certify annually to the Secretary that they have adopted, or 
are in the process of adopting, the Federal standards; are 
enforcing the standards; and are encouraging and promoting the 
establishment of damage prevention programs. PHMSA testified 
that 17 states are certified to inspect intrastate hazardous 
liquid pipelines and six states are authorized to conduct 
inspections for interstate hazardous liquid pipelines.
    At the hearing, witnesses discussed the significant number 
of pipelines that are exempt from PHMSA's safety regulations 
(e.g., certain gathering lines and flow lines). Numerous safety 
and environmental groups have requested that PHMSA review these 
exemptions. The hearing also addressed concerns with PHMSA's 
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) issued on June 23, 2010, 
to regulate low-stress pipelines. NTSB officials testified that 
they were concerned with certain aspects of PHMSA's pipeline 
safety program including regulation of low-stress pipeline 
systems and underscored the importance of effective oversight 
by pipeline operators and PHMSA to ensure success of the 
pipeline safety program.

The Safety of Hazardous Liquid Pipelines (Part 2): Integrity Management

    On July 15, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing on 
pipeline operators' management of the safety of hazardous 
liquid pipelines, known as integrity management. Federal 
regulations require pipeline operators to continually evaluate 
the potential consequences of failure of their pipeline 
segments that could affect a high consequence area (HCA), and 
set priorities for inspecting, operating, and maintaining the 
pipeline based on whether people, property, or the environment 
might be at risk should a pipeline failure occur. According to 
PHMSA, pipeline segments that could affect an HCA represent 
about 44 percent of the total hazardous liquid pipeline mileage 
in the United States.
    Witnesses testified that pipeline operators should conduct 
such integrity management assessments on pipelines outside of 
HCAs and that PHMSA should require more comprehensive 
information from pipeline operators on what defects were 
identified, the cause of those defects, and the repairs that 
were made in order to get a better understanding of the 
condition of our nation's pipeline infrastructure. The hearing 
also focused on recent failures at Alyeska and potential 
problems with recent management decisions which may impact 
Alyeska's integrity management programs.

             Pipeline Safety Public Awareness and Education

    On July 18, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing on the 
public awareness and education programs of pipeline operators.
    The Pipeline Safety Improvement Act of 2002 (P.L. 107-355) 
requires each owner or operator of a gas or hazardous liquid 
pipeline facility to carry out a continuing program to educate 
the public on possible hazards associated with unintentional 
releases from a pipeline facility, the physical indications 
that such a release may have occurred, what steps should be 
taken for public safety in the event of a pipeline release, and 
how to report such an event. The program also must educate the 
public on the use of a one-call notification system prior to 
excavation and other damage prevention activities.
    Witnesses testified on potential improvements to existing 
public awareness and education programs, including evaluation 
of pipeline programs by Federal regulators, pipeline operators' 
self-evaluation of the effectiveness of their public education 
programs, the needs to increase technical assistance grants to 
communities and improve the national pipeline mapping system, 
and to make available free of charge industry-developed 
standards that are referenced in pipeline safety regulations to 
enable local communities to understand Federal requirements.
    The Subcommittee also held a Members' roundtable discussion 
on high-speed rail and opportunities for creating a domestic 
manufacturing base for developing high-speed and intercity 
passenger rail and creating jobs in the United States.

  

                       Summary of Activities for

          the Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment

    During the 111th Congress, the Subcommittee on Water 
Resources and Environment, chaired by Representative Eddie 
Bernice Johnson, with Representative John Boozman serving as 
Ranking Member, held 20 hearings (136 witnesses and 
approximately 47 hours) and two Members' roundtables, covering 
the breadth of issues within the jurisdiction of the 
Subcommittee.
    The Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure 
developed major legislation, H.R. 1262, the ``Water Quality 
Investment Act of 2009'', to reauthorize increased 
appropriations for the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (Clean 
Water SRF), the principal Federal program for the construction 
of wastewater infrastructure, to provide communities with 
increased flexibility in the use and repayment of Clean Water 
SRF funding to allow communities to meet ever growing local 
water quality needs, and to restore the application of 
prevailing wage requirements to the program. H.R. 1262 also 
reauthorizes funding for the U.S. Environmental Protection 
Agency's (EPA) combined and sanitary sewer overflow grant 
program and alternative water source program, reauthorizes 
increased appropriations for the EPA's Great Lakes Legacy Act, 
and authorizes a sewer overflow right-to-know program that 
requires sewer owners to provide notice to communities in the 
event of a sewer overflow. On March 12, 2009, the House passed 
H.R. 1262.
    In addition, the Committee developed legislation, contained 
in Title VII of H.R. 3534, the ``Oil Spill Accountability and 
Environmental Protection Act of 2010'', to make several 
critical reforms to the Federal Water Pollution Control Act 
(Clean Water Act) and the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 in response 
to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill disaster. First, this 
legislation increases the limitations of liability for offshore 
facilities, such as the Deepwater Horizon, and vessels as well 
as the level of financial responsibility or insurance coverage 
(through a certificate of financial responsibility or COFR) to 
more appropriately address the potential impacts of a release 
of oil or hazardous substances. In addition, Title VII of H.R. 
3534 requires the owners or operators of facilities and vessels 
to have adequate oil spill response plans, and requires 
additional transparency, inspection, and enforcement of such 
response plans to limit the potential impacts of a release. The 
legislation also amends the process for review and approval of 
oil spill dispersants, chemicals, or other spill mitigating 
devices to require additional transparency and testing on the 
toxicity, effectiveness, and potential human health or 
environmental impacts of such products before they can be 
listed for use in response to an oil spill. Finally, the 
legislation repeals the Clean Water Act exemption from the 
stormwater permitting requirement for construction of oil and 
gas exploration and production sites. On July 30, 2010, the 
House passed H.R. 3534.
    The Committee also developed legislation, contained in 
Title III of H.R. 2868, the ``Wastewater Treatment Works 
Security Act of 2009'', to enhance the security and safety of 
the nation's wastewater treatment facilities. Title III of H.R. 
2868 ensures that all large- and medium-sized wastewater 
treatment facilities (e.g., facilities that treat at least 2.5 
million gallons of sewage per day) perform a nationally-
consistent, threshold security assessment, and take proactive 
steps to reduce their overall vulnerability. For those 
facilities that possess sufficient quantities of potentially-
dangerous chemicals, this legislation requires an assessment of 
whether ``inherently safer technologies'' can be implemented to 
reduce the overall risk posed by the facility, while enabling 
the facility to continue meeting its water quality obligations 
under the Clean Water Act. Finally, Title III of H.R. 2868 
authorizes appropriations for grants to publicly owned 
treatment works to carry out vulnerability assessments, site 
security and emergency response plans, and to implement 
measures to improve the overall security of the wastewater 
treatment facilities, as well as provide emergency response 
training to first responders and firefighters who may be called 
upon in the event of a terrorist act. On November 6, 2009, the 
House passed H.R. 2868.
    Finally, the Committee developed several bills to modify 
existing Clean Water Act authorities to enhance Federal, state, 
and local efforts to improve water quality and environment, to 
strengthen the protection of public health, and to provide 
additional Federal resources for and accountability in 
restoring and maintaining the nation's water-related resources. 
H.R. 2093, the ``Clean Coastal Environmental and Public Health 
Act of 2009'', provides additional resources to state and local 
governments for the monitoring and assessment of coastal 
recreational waters, and requires that communities adopt a 
rapid-testing methodology for testing coastal water quality to 
ensure that the public is provided immediate notification of 
potential threats to human health from contaminated 
recreational waters. On July 29, 2009, the House passed H.R. 
2093. H.R. 4715, the ``National Estuaries Program 
Reauthorization Act of 2010'', reauthorizes increased funding 
for the Environmental Protection Agency's National Estuary 
Program (``NEP''), as well as requires increased accountability 
of Federal resources used for the restoration of the nation's 
estuarine areas. On April 15, 2010, the House passed H.R. 4715.
    The following bills and resolutions were enacted in the 
111th Congress:
           Public Law 111-__, to amend the Federal 
        Water Pollution Control Act to clarify Federal 
        responsibility for stormwater pollution,
           Public Law 111-215, to modify the date on 
        which the Administrator of the Environmental Protection 
        Agency and applicable States may require permits for 
        discharges from certain vessels,
           Public Law 111-315, to amend the Water 
        Resources and Development Act of 2000 to extend and 
        modify the program allowing the Secretary of the Army 
        to accept and expend funds contributed by non-Federal 
        public entities to expedite the evaluation of permits, 
        and for other purposes,
           Public Law 111-120, to extend through 
        December 31, 2010, the authority of the Secretary of 
        the Army to accept and expend funds contributed by non-
        Federal public entities to expedite the processing of 
        permits,
           H. Res. 465, recognizing the Atlantic 
        Intracoastal Waterway Association on the occasion of 
        its 10th anniversary, and for other purposes,
           H. Res. 1639, recognizing the contributions 
        of the National Waterways Conference on the occasion of 
        its 50th anniversary, and for other purposes, and
          10 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Survey 
        resolutions.
    Other bills that passed the House include:
           H.R. 1262, the ``Water Quality Investment 
        Act of 2009'',
           H.R. 2868, Title III, the ``Wastewater 
        Treatment Works Security Act of 2009''
           H.R. 2093, the ``Clean Coastal Environmental 
        and Public Health Act of 2009'',
           H.R. 4715, the ``National Estuaries Program 
        Reauthorization Act of 2010'',
           H.R. 3650, the ``Harmful Algal Blooms and 
        Hypoxia Research and Control Amendments of 2009'',
           H.R. 5282, to provide funds to the Army 
        Corps of Engineers to hire veterans and members of the 
        Armed Forces to assist the Corps with curation and 
        historic preservation activities, and for other 
        purposes,
           H.R. 1053, the ``Chesapeake Bay 
        Accountability and Recovery Act of 2009'',
           H.R. 5545, to deauthorize a portion of the 
        project for navigation, Potomac River, Washington, 
        Channel, District of Columbia, under the jurisdiction 
        of the Corps of Engineers, and
           H.R. 1854, to amend the Water Resources 
        Development Act of 1992 to modify and environmental 
        infrastructure project for Big Bear Lake, California.

                      Public Laws and Resolutions


  To Amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act To Clarify Federal 
                Responsibility for Stormwater Pollution


                           Public Law 111- __


                               (S. 3481)


                              January 2011

    This legislation amends section 313 of the Federal Water 
Pollution Control Act (Clean Water Act) to clarify that 
reasonable service charges for addressing pollution from 
Federal facilities include reasonable and nondiscriminatory 
fees, charges, or assessments that are based on the proportion 
of stormwater emanating from the facility and used to pay (or 
reimburse) costs associated with any stormwater management 
program.

  To Modify the Date on Which the Administrator of the Environmental 
    Protection Agency and Applicable States May Require Permits for 
                    Discharges From Certain Vessels


                           Public Law 111-215


                               (S. 3372)


                          (See also H.R. 5301)


                             July 30, 2010

    This law extends the period during which the Administrator 
of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and States are 
prohibited from requiring a permit under section 402 of the 
Clean Water Act for discharges that are incidental to the 
normal operation of certain commercial vessels. In July 2008, 
Congress enacted P.L. 110-299, a two-year moratorium of 
requirements that an owner or an operator of a fishing vessel 
or a vessel less than 79 feet in length must obtain a Clean 
Water Act permit for discharges incidental to the normal 
operation of such vessel. P.L. 110-299 also required that the 
EPA and the United States Coast Guard jointly conduct a study 
on the impacts of such discharges on water quality. The results 
of this study would guide the EPA in developing a permitting 
program for these discharges. The two-year moratorium expired 
on July 31, 2010. While initial study results showed that the 
effects of such discharges are not benign, EPA was continuing 
to evaluate the results of the study, and was not in a position 
to develop and issue guidelines to properly address such 
discharges. S. 3372 extends the permitting moratorium through 
December 18, 2013.

  To Amend the Water Resources Development Act of 2000 To Extend and 
  Modify the Program Allowing the Secretary of the Army To Accept and 
Expend Funds Contributed by Non-Federal Public Entities To Expedite the 
             Evaluation of Permits, and for Other Purposes


                           Public Law 111-315


                              (H.R. 6184)


                           December 18, 2010

    The law amends section 214 of the Water Resources 
Development Act of 2000 to extend the authority of the 
Secretary of the Army to accept funds from non-Federal public 
entities for the consideration of permits under the Clean Water 
Act and the Rivers and Harbors Appropriation Act of 1899 
through December 31, 2016. This authority was set to expire on 
December 31, 2010.
    In addition, this law amends the permit review authority of 
section 214 to reduce the potential ``conflict of interests'' 
inherent in the program by: (1) clarifying that the authority 
can only be used by a public entity to review permits related 
to projects or activities for a public purpose; (2) requiring a 
formal, higher-order review of permits considered under this 
authority; and (3) ensuring that information on individual 
permits reviewed under the 214 authority be made publicly 
available, including on the Internet.

To Extend Through December 31, 2010, the Authority of the Secretary of 
 the Army To Accept and Expend Funds Contributed by Non-Federal Public 
             Entities To Expedite the Processing of Permits


                           Public Law 111-120


                              (H.R. 4165)


                           December 22, 2009

    This law extends through December 31, 2010, the authority 
of the Secretary of the Army to accept funds from non-Federal 
public entities for the consideration of permits under the 
Federal Water Pollution Control Act (Clean Water Act) and the 
Rivers and Harbor Act of 1899. This authority, enacted as 
section 214 of the Water Resources Development Act of 2000, was 
set to expire on December 31, 2009.

   Recognizing the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway Association on the 
        Occasion of its 10th Anniversary, and for Other Purposes


                             (H. Res. 465)


                            October 14, 2009

    H. Res. 465 recognizes the importance of the Atlantic 
Intracoastal Waterway and commends the Atlantic Intracoastal 
Waterway Association on the occasion of its 10th anniversary.

 Recognizing the Contributions of the National Waterways Conference on 
      the Occasion of Its 50th Anniversary, and for Other Purposes


                             H. Res. 1639)


                           September 28, 2010

    H. Res. 1639 recognizes the value of the U.S. Army Corps of 
Engineers and its civil works mission to the economic 
prosperity and sustainable environmental health of the nation; 
recognizes the contributions of the National Waterways 
Conference on the formulation of the nation's water resources-
related policies and programs for the Corps' civil works 
mission and its advocacy for continued and increased investment 
in meeting the water resources needs of the nation; and 
commends the National Waterways Conference on the occasion of 
its 50th anniversary.

                           Other Legislation


              The Water Resources Development Act of 2010


                              (H.R. 5892)


         Reported Favorably to the House on September 29, 2010

    H.R. 5892, as amended, includes project authorizations, 
modifications, deauthorizations, studies, and policy 
initiatives for the Army Corps of Engineers' (Corps) Civil 
Works Program--the nation's largest water resources program. 
The bill authorizes and directs the Corps to carry out various 
studies, projects, and programmatic authorities relating to 
navigation, flood damage reduction, shoreline protection, water 
supply, recreation, environmental restoration and protection, 
and other water-related activities.
    H.R. 5892 also includes important policy provisions that 
address concerns with the Corps' existing study, design, 
review, and mitigation processes, including implementation of 
provisions enacted as part of the Water Resources Development 
Act of 2007. This legislation includes technical changes to the 
Corps' programmatic authorities, including: clarifying the 
intent of Congress related to the Corps' crediting authority; 
increasing the transparency of independent reviews; and 
improving the effectiveness of mitigation that addresses 
impacts from Corps' projects on the natural environment. 
Finally, H.R. 5892, creates a mechanism for increased 
expenditures from the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund to ensure 
that annual revenues collected are utilized to meet the 
Nation's navigation maintenance dredging needs; authorizes the 
Corps to work with local communities in the assessment and 
evaluation of local flood control structures, including levees; 
and directs the Corps to provide additional information to 
Congress on the estimated costs of recommended projects.

                  Water Quality Investment Act of 2009


                              (H.R. 1262)


                   Passed the House on March 12, 2009

    H.R. 1262, the ``Water Quality Investment Act of 2009'', 
amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to reauthorize 
appropriations for capitalization grants to States for state 
water pollution control revolving funds; to reauthorize 
appropriations for the EPA to provide grants for alternative 
water source projects to meet critical water supply needs; to 
reauthorize appropriations for grants to municipalities and 
States to control combined sewer overflows and sanitary sewer 
overflows; to provide a uniform, national standard for 
monitoring, reporting, and public notification of municipal 
combined sewer overflows and sanitary sewer overflows; and to 
reauthorize and increase appropriations for projects to 
remediate contaminated sediment in the Great Lakes areas of 
concern. H.R. 1262 also restores the application of prevailing 
wage requirements (Davis-Bacon), and requires all construction 
projects utilizing clean water state revolving funds to pay 
contractors the prevailing local wage, as determined by the 
Department of Labor.

            Wastewater Treatment Works Security Act of 2009


                         (H.R. 2868, Title III)


                          (See also H.R. 2883)


                  Passed the House on November 6, 2009

    The ``Wastewater Treatment Works Security Act of 2009'', 
which is Title III of H.R. 2868, the ``Chemical and Water 
Security Act of 2009'', amends the Federal Water Pollution 
Control Act to enhance the security of operations at wastewater 
treatment works (i.e., sewage treatment facilities) from 
intentional acts that may substantially disrupt the ability of 
the facility to safely and reliably operate, or that may have a 
substantial adverse impact on critical infrastructure, public 
health or safety, or the environment. This legislation 
authorizes $1 billion over five years in Federal resources to 
enhance the security of public sewage treatment facilities, and 
requires development of risk-based vulnerability assessments, 
site security plans, and emergency response plans for treatment 
works that treat at least 2.5 million gallons per day 
(estimated by EPA to be a facility that serves a population of 
25,000 or greater). For certain high-risk wastewater treatment 
facilities, H.R. 2868 also requires the assessment and 
implementation of methods to reduce the consequence of a 
chemical release from an intentional act (i.e., inherently 
safer technologies).

        Clean Coastal Environment and Public Health Act of 2009


                              (H.R. 2093)


                   Passed the House on July 29, 2009

    H.R. 2093, the ``Clean Coastal Environment and Public 
Health Act of 2009'', amends the Federal Water Pollution 
Control Act to reauthorize appropriations for the Beaches 
Environmental Assessment and Coastal Health Act (BEACH Act) 
through FY 2014; to codify a definitive timeline for the 
development, testing, and utilization of rapid testing methods 
for detecting the contamination of coastal recreation waters; 
to establish a non-discretionary duty for the Administrator of 
the EPA to continuously review and revise rapid testing methods 
where such methods make accurate water quality sampling results 
available in less time (with a goal of two hour testing by 
2017); and to make programmatic changes to State and local 
coastal recreation water quality monitoring and notification 
programs.

                      Clean Estuaries Act of 2010


                              (H.R. 4715)


                          (See also H.R. 5301)


                   Passed the House on April 15, 2010

    H.R. 4715, the ``Clean Estuaries Act of 2010'', amends 
section 320 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to 
reauthorize appropriations for the National Estuary Program 
through FY 2016, and makes programmatic changes. The 
legislation provides a framework for the grant funding of 
estuary programs to protect and restore estuarine resources. 
H.R. 4715 requires that estuary programs funded through the 
program adopt new accountability requirements, as well as 
provides for new requirements that must be addressed by each 
program's comprehensive conservation and management plan. The 
legislation also includes additional requirements for the 
periodic review and approval of each program and management 
plan by the EPA. H.R. 4715 also requires increased federal 
agency coordination, pursuant to the goals of approved estuary 
management plans. The legislation increases the authorization 
of appropriations to $50 million per year, for FY 2011 through 
FY 2016, and also requires that each approved estuary program 
receives grants of no less than $1.25 million per year.
    On July 20, 2010, the House passed H.R. 5301, which 
incorporated H.R. 4715 as Title II of the bill.

Harmful Algal Blooms and Hypoxia Research and Control Amendments Act of 
                                  2010


                              (H.R. 3650)


                   Passed the House on March, 12 2010

    H.R. 3650, the ``Harmful Algal Blooms and Hypoxia Research 
and Control Amendments Act of 2010,'' amends the Harmful Algal 
Blooms and Hypoxia Research and Control Act of 1998 (P.L. 105-
383.). The legislation establishes a Harmful Algal Blooms and 
Hypoxia Research Program (the Program) to develop and 
coordinate a comprehensive and integrated strategy to address 
harmful algal blooms and hypoxia in marine and freshwater 
bodies. The Program would be established by the National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and carried out 
through the existing Inter-Agency Task Force on Harmful Algal 
Blooms and Hypoxia (established by section 603 of P.L. 105-
383). This Program also provides for the development and 
implementation of regional action plans to reduce the incidence 
of harmful algal blooms and hypoxia. Each of these plans would 
include regional research priorities, methods for reducing the 
intensity of hypoxia and harmful algal blooms, and the roles 
that Federal agencies should play in implementing the plans, 
among other elements. NOAA and the EPA would jointly carry out 
the duties of the freshwater elements of the Program. H.R. 3650 
authorizes appropriations of $41 million for each of FYs 2011 
through FY 2015, including $7 million annually for the 
activities of the EPA.

 To Provide Funds to the Army Corps of Engineers To Hire Veterans and 
   Members of the Armed Forces To Assist the Corps With Curation and 
        Historic Preservation Activities, and for Other Purposes


                              (H.R. 5282)


                 Passed the House on September 15, 2010

    H.R. 5282 authorizes the Army Corps of Engineers' (Corps) 
Veterans Curation Program, and allows the Corps to hire 
veterans and members of the Armed Forces to assist the Corps 
with curation and historic preservation activities. Curation is 
defined as the long-term, professional management and care of 
all objects, materials, and records recovered as the result of 
a Federal or non-Federal archeological undertaking. As part of 
the Federal Government's effort to protect and preserve the 
nation's cultural and archeological resources, Federal 
regulations (notably 36 CFR part 79) require Federal agencies 
to provide curatorial services to manage and preserve 
collections according to professional museum and archival 
practices.
    In 2009, the Corps allocated $29.7 million from the 
American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (P.L. 111-5) (Recovery 
Act) to open three Veterans Curation Project (VCP) laboratories 
throughout the nation. The locations of these laboratories are: 
(1) Augusta, Georgia; (2) Washington, D.C.; and (3) St. Louis, 
Missouri (at the Mandatory Center of Expertise for the Curation 
and Management of Archaeological Collections (MCX-CMAC)). The 
purpose of these laboratories is to carry out the Corps' 
curation responsibilities, including cataloging, scanning, and 
photographing records and artifacts, while utilizing and 
training a workforce of disabled or wounded veterans, or 
veterans who have recently-returned from overseas (including 
tours in Iraq and Afghanistan). The VCP program seeks to impart 
skills in computer databases, digital scanning, digital image 
capture, and writing skills to the veterans while improving the 
Corps' management of its heritage assets. According to the U.S. 
Army, the technical skills learned by veterans at the 
laboratories will be transferrable to jobs outside the 
laboratories, including forensic technicians and records 
management.
    H.R. 5282 provides a total authorization of appropriations 
of $35 million for FY 2011 through FY 2015.

         Chesapeake Bay Accountability and Recovery Act of 2009


                              (H.R. 1053)


                 Passed the House on September 30, 2009

    H.R. 1053, the ``Chesapeake Bay Accountability and Recovery 
Act of 2009'', directs the Director of the Office of Management 
and Budget to annually prepare a financial report containing an 
interagency crosscut budget for Federal agency activities 
related to the restoration of the Chesapeake Bay. In addition, 
this legislation requires the Administrator of the EPA to 
develop an adaptive management plan for its Chesapeake Bay 
Program and restoration activities. Finally, H.R. 1053 directs 
the Administrator of EPA to appoint an Independent Evaluator to 
review and report on Chesapeake Bay restoration activities and 
the use of adaptive management. The Independent Evaluator is 
required to submit a report to Congress every three years, 
detailing findings and recommendations of the evaluation.

To Deauthorize a Portion of the Project for Navigation, Potomac River, 
Washington Channel, District of Columbia, Under the Jurisdiction of the 
                           Corps of Engineers


                              (H.R. 5545)


                   Passed the House on July 20, 2010

    H.R. 5545 deauthorizes a designated portion of the Federal 
project for navigation, Potomac River, Washington Channel, 
District of Columbia. The project for navigation, Potomac 
River, north side of Washington Channel, District of Columbia, 
was initially authorized by the River and Harbor Improvement 
Act, dated August 30, 1935 (chapter 831; 49 Stat. 1028). H.R. 
5545 deauthorizes one-half of the Federal navigation project 
width of the Washington Channel. The channel deauthorization 
runs from the northern limit of the Federal navigation project 
to just south of the Marine Police pier.

   To Amend the Water Resources Development Act of 1992 To Modify an 
   Environmental Infrastructure Project for Big Bear Lake, California


                              (H.R. 1854)


                  Passed the House on December 8, 2009

    H.R. 1854 amends section 219(f)(84) of the Water Resources 
Development Act of 1992 to modify an environmental 
infrastructure project for Big Bear Lake, California, 
originally authorized in the Water Resources Development Act of 
2007 (P.L. 110-114). Specifically, this legislation would 
modify the project purpose from wastewater treatment to water 
supply infrastructure, and reduce the authorization of 
appropriations from $15 million to $9 million to reflect the 
change in use for the project.

Resolution of Inquiry Requesting the President To Transmit to the House 
of Representatives Copies of Certain Documents in the Possession of the 
          Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency


                             (H. Res. 995)


Reported to the House as amended without Recommendation on January 29, 
                                  2010

    H. Res. 995 is a resolution of inquiry that, pursuant to 
clause 7 of rule XIII of the Rules of the House, directs the 
Committee to act on the resolution within 14 legislative days, 
or a privileged motion to discharge the Committee is in order. 
Under the rules and precedents of the House, a resolution of 
inquiry is a means by which the House requests information from 
the Executive Branch.
    The central focus of H. Res. 995 related to the 
establishment of a permissible Clean Water Act discharge 
standard for phosphorous for the planned Northwest Arkansas 
Conservation Authority (NACA) regional wastewater treatment 
facility, proposed for Benton County, Arkansas. In the view of 
the Committee, the Environmental Protection Agency had provided 
sufficient information to Representative John Boozman with 
respect to his information requests, including publicly 
committing to brief the Representative on any data, modeling, 
and any other questions related to this determination at a time 
convenient to the Representative, thereby making the resolution 
of inquiry unnecessary.

                               Hearings 


                 Sustainable Wastewater Infrastructure 

    On February 4, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on sustainable wastewater infrastructure. The 
Subcommittee received testimony from representatives of EPA, 
the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, the Water 
Environment Federation, and other stakeholder organizations.
    This hearing highlighted the current energy consumption 
demands for water and wastewater treatment in the United 
States--estimated by witnesses as consuming approximately four 
percent of the nation's total annual electrical needs. The U.S. 
wastewater industry, alone, is estimated to consume 
approximately one percent of the nation's annual electricity 
sales.
    The hearing also highlighted the availability and use of 
various technologies and approaches for promoting sustainable 
infrastructure in wastewater treatment facilities, specifically 
in the areas of water conservation and reuse, and energy 
efficiency. The concept of sustainable water infrastructure can 
apply to a number of areas, including the efficient use of 
water and energy, efforts at promoting water conservation, and 
the development and utilization of more effective stormwater 
mitigation projects and techniques. With respect to energy 
efficiencies, witnesses testified how existing technologies, 
such as digester gas fuel cells, micro-hydro turbines, solar 
photovoltaic systems, and on-site small wind turbines, can be 
incorporated into wastewater treatment facility systems to 
realize significant energy efficiency gains, often at minimal 
capital costs. Depending on the type of system and technologies 
included, witnesses noted the possibility that wastewater 
treatment facilities can achieve complete energy independence. 
With respect to water efficiency, the use of sustainable 
planning, design, and construction projects, such as low-impact 
development techniques and technologies or decentralized 
wastewater treatment systems, can result in lower adverse 
impacts on water quality and watersheds and often at a reduced 
long-term cost. In addition, witnesses noted that the use of 
such approaches can often address immediate water quality 
concerns, such as stormwater runoff, in conjunction with a 
number of other benefits, such as improved air quality, 
mitigation of urban heat island effects, energy savings, and 
increased property values from aesthetic improvements (e.g., 
the planting of trees and rain gardens for evapotranspiration).

               Efforts To Address Urban Stormwater Runoff

    On March 19, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on efforts to address urban stormwater 
runoff. The Subcommittee received testimony from 
representatives of the National Research Council; EPA; the 
cities of Dallas, Texas; Kansas City, Missouri; Milwaukee, 
Wisconsin; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Portland, Oregon; and 
other stakeholders.
    The purpose of the hearing was to gather information on the 
utility of green infrastructure and low-impact development 
technologies and approaches in addressing urban stormwater 
runoff, as well as identify any barriers to implementing these 
technologies and approaches. Several witnesses noted that the 
expanded use of impervious surfaces through urbanization has 
significant adverse impacts on the manner in which water moves 
both above and below ground during and after wet weather 
events. For example, the movement of great volumes of 
stormwater through combined and sanitary sewer systems has 
resulted in greater numbers of sewer overflows, which have had 
a demonstrable adverse impact on the nation's water quality. 
Discharges of pollutants from engineered conveyances, such as 
gutters, pipes, and concrete canals are regulated under the 
Clean Water Act. A ``green infrastructure'' or low-impact 
development (LID) approach for stormwater mitigation is 
premised on the notion that the volume of stormwater can be 
reduced before entering into sewage conveyance systems. Various 
green infrastructure methods include green roofs, permeable 
pavement, curb cut-outs, rain swales and gardens, increased 
tree cover, as well as green space and buffer zones.
    Witnesses highlighted the importance of the set-aside for 
green infrastructure in the American Recovery and Reinvestment 
Act (Recovery Act) (P.L. 111-5), with the EPA witness 
testifying that the set-aside ``provides an outstanding 
opportunity to accelerate the integration of green 
infrastructure into [the] stormwater management programs.'' 
Witnesses also highlighted the potential cost-savings for 
improving water quality that can be achieved by utilizing green 
infrastructure, including low-impact development techniques and 
technologies.

 The Tennessee Valley Authority's Kingston Ash Slide: Potential Water 
            Quality Impacts of Coal Combustion Waste Storage

    On March 31, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the Tennessee Valley Authority's Kingston 
ash slide and the potential water quality impact of coal 
combustion waste storage. The Subcommittee received testimony 
from representatives of the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), 
EPA, the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, 
Duke University, and other interested parties.
    The hearing investigated the potential causes, response, 
and cleanup of the coal ash spill at the TVA's Kingston 
(Tennessee) Fossil Plant, and uncovered information on 
potential water quality implications from the ash spill. On 
December 22, 2008, a retaining wall failed at a coal ash 
retention pond at the Kingston Fossil Plant, resulting in the 
release of 5.4 million cubic yards of ash and 327 million 
gallons of water onto adjacent land and into the nearby Clinch 
and Emory Rivers. Multiple state, local and Federal agencies 
were involved in the clean-up effort, including EPA, the 
Tennessee Department of Health, the Tennessee Wildlife 
Resources Agency, and representatives from Roane County, 
Tennessee. EPA considered the spill to be an unpermitted 
discharge of a pollutant under the Clean Water Act. The ash 
spill was determined to have a number of threatening 
implications, including a potential to harm human health at 
certain exposure levels, contamination of private drinking 
water wells, and a negative impact on the rivers' aquatic 
ecosystem. The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency advised that 
fishing be avoided in the lower Emory River, although the 
Tennessee Department of Health determined that there should be 
no adverse health effects from occasionally ingesting the ash.

            Coal Combustion Waste Storage and Water Quality

    On April 30, 2009, the Subcommittee held on hearing on coal 
combustion waste storage and water quality. The Subcommittee 
received testimony from representatives of EPA, the Maryland 
Department of Environmental Quality, academia, and other 
interested parties.
    The hearing clarified the relationship between water 
quality and the storage and disposal of coal combustion waste 
(CCW). CCW consists of a variety of residues that remain after 
coal has been burned, such as coarse particles that settle to 
the bottom of the power plant's combustion chamber, as well as 
fine particles that are removed from the flue gas. CCW is 
subject to regulation (at the time of the hearing) by States as 
a non-hazardous substance under the Resource Conservation and 
Recovery Act (RCRA). The Federal role in CCW storage and 
disposal is primarily through Clean Water Act permitting 
requirements in those instances where there is a discharge of 
pollutants to a waterbody from a CCW storage or disposal 
facility. Currently, CCW is stored in approximately 1,200 
locations across the United States, including landfills, 
storage ponds, and surface impoundments. More than one-half of 
these sites (620) remain in active use, with the remainder 
being closed or currently unused. Studies from EPA have 
concluded that CCW should not be stored or used in environments 
where it will come into contact with water (surface or 
groundwater).
    One additional management tool for CCW is to recycle the 
waste into other products, such as Portland cement and flue gas 
desulfurization residues. This recycling into other products is 
referred to as ``beneficial reuse''. Several witnesses at the 
hearing discussed the safety and economic value of beneficial 
uses for CCW. Witnesses also stressed the importance of 
tracking potentially harmful byproducts from the use of coal, 
and ensuring that such byproducts, which may be reduced from 
air emissions due to regulation under the Clean Air Act, are 
not otherwise released into the environment through under-
regulated discharges of wastewater under the Clean Water Act.

        Recommendation of the National Committee on Levee Safety

    On May 19, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to receive 
testimony on the recommendations of the National Committee on 
Levee Safety. The Subcommittee received testimony from 
representatives of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps), 
state and local governments, and stakeholders.
    The purpose of the hearing was to receive a report on the 
status of the nation's levees and develop recommendations for 
the creation of a national levee safety program, as outlined in 
the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2007. The Corps' 
levee safety program listed 114 levees at the time of the 
hearing that had received an unacceptable rating from routine 
maintenance inspections conducted since February 1, 2007. An 
unacceptable rating means that a levee has one or more 
deficient conditions that may prevent it from functioning as 
designed, intended, or required. If the levee is not brought 
into compliance within one year, the non-federal levee sponsor 
is not eligible for Federal repair funds following a flood 
event.
    The Subcommittee received 20 recommendations for the 
creation of a National Levee Safety Program, in the following 
three categories: leadership in the form of a National Levee 
Safety Commission, the creation of strong levee safety programs 
in all states, and an increase in efficiency of existing 
federal programs, such as the Federal Emergency Management 
Agency's (FEMA's) Mapping Program and Community Rating System.
    Witness testimony generally supported the recommendations 
of the National Committee's report. Witnesses also testified 
that a comprehensive program needs to be developed that goes 
beyond just levee safety and captures a broader flood risk 
management approach to areas behind levees. Witnesses also 
commented on the need to complete the ongoing Federal levee 
survey, and expand the survey to capture non-federal levees as 
well.

           Agency Budgets and Priorities for Fiscal Year 2010

    On June 3, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to receive 
testimony on the President's Fiscal Year 2010 Budget request 
for programs within the jurisdiction of the Subcommittee. The 
Subcommittee received testimony from representatives of EPA, 
the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Natural Resources 
Conservation Service (NRCS), the National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Saint Lawrence Seaway 
Development Corporation (SLSDC), and TVA.

       Agency Budgets and Priorities for Fiscal Year 2010, Part 2

    On June 16, 2009, the Subcommittee held a second hearing to 
receive testimony on the President's Fiscal Year 2010 Budget 
request for programs within the jurisdiction of the 
Subcommittee. The Subcommittee received testimony from 
representatives of the Corps, the United States Sector of the 
International Boundary and Water Commission (USIBWC), and the 
Agency for the Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) at 
the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

  Opportunities and Challenges in the Creation of a Clean Water Trust 
                                  Fund

    On July 15, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on creation of a Clean Water Trust Fund. The 
Subcommittee received testimony from Members of Congress, a 
representative of the Government Accountability Office (GAO), 
representatives of State and local governments, and other 
stakeholders.
    The hearing explored issues related to the creation of a 
dedicated, revenue-neutral trust fund to finance wastewater 
infrastructure projects and improve water quality under the 
Clean Water Act. Over the decades, investment in wastewater 
infrastructure has provided significant environmental, public 
health, and economic benefits to the nation. Yet, recent 
studies from EPA and others have noted that without increased 
investment in wastewater infrastructure, the United States 
could lose much of the gains it has made in improving water 
quality as a result of the 1972 Clean Water Act. The 
Congressional Budget Office (CBO) and other stakeholders each 
have estimated that as much as twice the current level of 
investment is needed by Federal, state, and local governments 
to address this shortfall. EPA is examining how improved 
technologies and innovative financing options might help close 
the gap between projected needs and current expenditures.
    Several witnesses at the hearing suggested that, even with 
increased appropriations for the Clean Water State Revolving 
Fund, additional resources would still be necessary to address 
the growing wastewater infrastructure needs. Several witnesses 
suggested that the creation of a national trust fund would 
provide a long-term federal contribution to protecting water 
resources, allow for uniform progress toward the country's 
water quality goals, and provide greater predictability to 
state and local governments on the availability of water 
quality funding.

  The Tennessee Valley Authority's Kingston Ash Slide: Evaluation of 
            Potential Causes and Updates on Cleanup Efforts

    On July 28, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on potential causes and cleanup efforts of 
TVA's Kingston ash slide. The Subcommittee received testimony 
from representatives of EPA, TVA, the TVA Office of Inspector 
General (TVA IG), and engineering firms.
    The hearing served to provide an update on TVA's Kingston 
ash slide cleanup efforts, as well as analyses of the root 
cause of the Kingston surface impoundment collapse. On December 
22, 2008, a retaining wall surrounding TVA's Kingston Fossil 
Plant coal ash retention pond collapsed, releasing 5.4 million 
cubic yards of ash and 327 million gallons of water onto 
adjacent land and into the Clinch and Emory Rivers. According 
to an engineering firm hired by TVA, the impoundment wall 
failure was caused by the combination of four distinct factors, 
including concerns with initial construction of the coal ash 
impoundment, as well as concerns with TVA's ongoing storage and 
disposal practices for ash within the storage cells. A law 
firm, which was hired by TVA to advise the TVA Board of 
Directors on its legal duties and potential litigation 
exposure, provided a report that outlines the circumstances 
surrounding the spill, and recommended improvements on TVA's 
governance, systems, and controls to reduce the likelihood of 
similar or other harmful incidents.
    Testimony from the witnesses and discussion among the 
Members and witnesses focused on the need for adequate 
regulation to prevent a spill like Kingston from happening in 
the future, as well as the fact that poor oversight and 
management of the coal ash facility by TVA contributed to the 
spill. In addition, witnesses testified on the potential short- 
and long-term human health effects of the spill.

             Reauthorization of the Chesapeake Bay Program

    On September 22, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on reauthorization of the Chesapeake Bay 
program. The Subcommittee received testimony from 
representatives of EPA, the States of Maryland, Pennsylvania, 
and Virginia, the University of Maryland, and other 
stakeholders.
    The Chesapeake Bay is the largest of the nation's 
estuaries; its watershed covers 64,000 square miles and GAO 
estimates that the population of the watershed will reach 18 
million by 2020. The Bay ecosystem (including its water 
quality) has been under stress due to sustained and excessive 
levels of pollution. Sources of this pollution include 
agricultural runoff, wastewater treatment facilities, new land 
development, and emissions from vehicles and power plants. 
According to EPA, the key to restoring water quality in the Bay 
watershed is to achieve significant reductions in nitrogen, 
phosphorus, and sediment loads. According to information 
provided by EPA, approximately 60 percent of the total nitrogen 
load, 65 percent of the total phosphorus load, and 96 percent 
of the total sediment load to the Chesapeake Bay is not subject 
to Federal regulation, including the Clean Water Act. 
Significant reductions in each of these pollutant loads are 
necessary to have the Chesapeake Bay meet water quality 
standards.
    In the 1990s, the States of Pennsylvania, Virginia, West 
Virginia, and Delaware each entered into a judicial consent 
decree with EPA to establish and have approved a total maximum 
daily load (TMDL) for all impaired waters (listed on a State's 
303(d) list) under the authority of the respective states by 
May 1, 2011. This timeline was approved by the other principal 
members of the Chesapeake Bay watershed, together with an 
agreement that EPA would establish the draft TMDL for 
Chesapeake Bay by December 2010, and that each of the 
respective Bay States would develop and submit to EPA watershed 
implementation plans for the TMDL.
    The EPA's Chesapeake Bay Program, authorized by the Clean 
Water Act, is a partnership that directs and conducts the 
restoration of the Bay. The most recent Bay Agreement is 
Chesapeake 2000, in which the Bay State partners agreed to 
improve water quality in the Bay and its tributaries to the 
point that these waters would be removed from EPA's impaired 
waters list by 2010. The Bay Program's Chesapeake Action Plan 
was released in July 2008, and its goal was to improve and 
accelerate the coordination, integration, and implementation of 
efforts to protect and restore the Bay. President Barack Obama 
issued an Executive Order on May 12, 2009, which directed the 
Federal Government to exercise greater leadership to restore 
the Bay.

 Protecting and Restoring America's Great Waters: The Long Island Sound

    On October 6, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on protecting Long Island Sound. The 
Subcommittee received testimony from representatives of EPA, 
the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, 
the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection, and 
other interested parties.
    The Long Island Sound is under stress, primarily due to the 
effects of urbanization within the Long Island Sound watershed. 
As a result, the Sound suffers from degraded water quality, 
loss of habitat, and reduced fish and shellfish populations. 
Discharges from wastewater treatment plants are the largest 
source of nitrogen to the Sound, according to a Total Maximum 
Daily Load (TMDL) analysis completed by Connecticut and New 
York in 2001. Atmospheric deposition and urban runoff are other 
sources.
    To improve the water quality of the Sound in accordance 
with the TMDL, Connecticut established the Nitrogen Credit 
Exchange program, in which municipal sewage treatment plants 
can trade nitrogen credits to achieve nitrogen reduction goals. 
Congress authorized the Long Island Sound Study under section 
119 of the Clean Water Act to develop and coordinate water 
quality restoration efforts in the Sound. Congress has 
supplemented the Long Island Sound Study with two other 
programs: the Long Island Sound Restoration Act, which is 
funded at up to $40 million per year for sewage treatment 
system upgrades, and the Long Island Sound Stewardship Act of 
2006, which supplies up to $25 million per year for land 
acquisition, habitat protection, and expanded public access in 
designated ``stewardship sites''.
    Testimony from the witnesses and discussion among Members 
and witnesses during the hearing focused on expansion of a 
nitrogen credit trading program to the rest of the Long Island 
Sound; the need for full funding of the existing Long Island 
Sound programs; the benefits of an expansion of the Municipal 
Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4) permitting program to 
improve water quality in the Sound; and the benefit of 
inclusion of the upstream states into the Long Island Sound 
TMDL.

    Recovery Act: Progress Report on Water Resources Infrastructure 
                               Investment

    On November 4, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the water resources infrastructure 
investment of the Recovery Act. The Subcommittee received 
testimony from EPA, the Corps, the Pennsylvania Department of 
Environmental Protection, the Village of Ruidoso, New Mexico, 
and the Pima County, Arizona Regional Wastewater Reclamation 
Department.
    The Subcommittee explored progress to date on EPA 
implementation of Recovery Act programs. At the time of the 
hearing, EPA had committed nearly $4.6 billion for Recovery Act 
projects, representing 98 percent of the total amount of 
Recovery Act funds allocated to EPA. However, the Subcommittee 
also explored the relatively slower implementation of the Clean 
Water SRFs by EPA and States, as well as the challenges posed 
by the Buy America requirements of the Recovery Act. At the 
time of the hearing, EPA had issued three nationwide waivers 
and 17 regional waivers. Members questioned whether States 
required more guidance on complying with Buy America 
requirements and whether EPA ought to publish additional 
waivers.
    The Subcommittee also reviewed Recovery Act implementation 
by the Corps. The Recovery Act provided $4.6 billion to the 
Corps. As of September 30, 2009, the Corps had begun work on 
731 Recovery Act projects all across the country, totaling more 
than $2.2 billion, representing nearly 50 percent of the total 
amount of funds allocated to the Corps.

        Proposals for a Water Resources Development Act of 2010

    On November 18, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on proposals for a Water Resources 
Development Act of 2010. The Subcommittee received testimony 
from Members of Congress. Members of Congress testified about 
high priority water resource projects being requested for 
inclusion in a Water Resources Development Act.

 The One-Year Anniversary of the Tennessee Valley Authority's Kingston 
  Ash Slide: Evaluating Current Cleanup Progress and Assessing Future 
                          Environmental Goals

    On December 9, 2009, the Subcommittee held a hearing on 
TVA's Kingston ash slide. The Subcommittee received testimony 
from representatives of EPA, TVA, the TVA IG, Perry County, 
Alabama, and an engineering firm.
    The TVA witness testified about progress being made to 
address both the time-critical and non-time critical removal of 
the coal ash released from the Kingston Fossil Fuel facility. 
The TVA IG witness testified about his observations on the need 
to ``change the culture'' of TVA which served as a factor in 
the failure of the Kingston coal ash storage pond. According to 
the TVA IG, ``TVA has suffered from an insular culture that 
shuns views outside the Valley. This defensive and 
protectionist philosophy has produced a tunnel vision that 
eschews input that might have aided in changing the very 
culture that contributed to TVA's current woes. That same 
culture resisted system-wide standards and accountability. All 
of this is based on an underlying philosophy that TVA's 
uniqueness as a hybrid government agency exempted it from 
adherence to standards and uniform process.''
    The engineering firm witness provided an update on its 
structural integrity assessment of TVA's 24 additional coal 
ash/gypsum storage ponds. The firm was hired by TVA, following 
the Kingston spill, to assess the safety of the utility's 
remaining coal ash and gypsum ponds.
    Finally, witnesses testified about the long-term human 
health and environmental implications of moving recovered coal-
ash (from the Kingston site) to a landfill in Perry County, 
Alabama.

                     Asian Carp and the Great Lakes

    On February 9, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on preventing the introduction of Asian Carp, 
an aquatic invasive species, into the Great Lakes. The 
Subcommittee received testimony from representatives of EPA, 
the Corps, the States of Illinois and Michigan, academia, and 
interested parties on the issue.
    Testimony centered on the introduction and spread of Asian 
Carp into the Mississippi River and scientific evidence of its 
potential spread into the Great Lakes. DNA from Asian Carp 
indicates that some Asian Carp may be entering the lower Great 
Lakes. The witnesses from EPA and the Corps discussed their 
joint efforts to respond to the Asian Carp and to develop a 
long-term solution to prevent the spread of the Asian Carp 
beyond their current territory.

           Agency Budgets and Priorities for Fiscal Year 2011

    On March 4, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the President's Fiscal Year 2011 Budget 
request for programs within the jurisdiction of the 
Subcommittee. The Subcommittee received testimony from EPA, the 
Corps, NRCS, NOAA, the SLSDC, TVA, the USIBWC, and ATSDR.

    Proposals for a Water Resources Development Act of 2010, Part II

    On April 15, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on proposals for a Water Resources 
Development Act of 2010. The Subcommittee received testimony 
from the Corps and several interested organizations.
    Testimony was presented covering project and programmatic 
needs that spanned the broad jurisdictional range of the Corps 
civil works program. All witnesses agreed about the need for 
Congress to consider the Water Resources Development Act of 
2010 in a timely manner and to consider this legislation more 
regularly than the seven-year gap that preceded passage of the 
Water Resources Development Act of 2007. Witnesses also 
expressed support for the need to continue and expand public 
investment in infrastructure.
    Witnesses also testified on the challenges facing the two 
waterway trust funds--the Inland Waterways Trust Fund and the 
Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund. Testimony discussed how the 
Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund collects more money than is 
expended on an annual basis to support harbor maintenance. 
Testimony was also presented about the significant shortfall in 
revenue facing the Inland Waterways Trust Fund, and how this 
shortfall could negatively impact the schedule for carrying out 
new and ongoing navigation construction projects on the inland 
system. Witnesses recommended Congressional action to address 
these trust fund issues.

Protecting and Restoring America's Great Waters, Part II: The Columbia 
                      River and San Francisco Bay

    On April 28, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the Columbia River and San Francisco Bay. 
The Subcommittee received testimony from Members of Congress, 
representatives of EPA, San Francisco Bay Estuary Partnership, 
Lower Columbia River Estuary Partnership, Columbia River Inter-
Tribal Fish Commission, Oregon State Senate, Bay Area Council, 
Contra Costa County, and other interested parties from the 
Columbia River Basin and San Francisco Bay.
    The hearing provided an update on the current environmental 
conditions of the Columbia River Basin and San Francisco Bay, 
as well as efforts to protect and restore both of these 
waterbodies. The Columbia River Basin and the San Francisco 
Estuary receive funding through the Clean Water Act's National 
Estuary Program (NEP). The EPA rates the Lower Columbia River 
Estuary as fair. Its main impairments are from non-point 
sources, including agriculture, urban and suburban stormwater, 
habitat modification, and emerging contaminants, such as flame 
retardant residue, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products. 
The EPA rates the San Francisco Estuary's overall condition as 
fair. The Estuary faces a number of threats because of human 
activity: threats to freshwater, population pressures, invasive 
species, and contaminants in sediments.
    Testimony centered on the strengths of these NEP programs 
and the need to increase funding for the ongoing work to 
continue to make progress in cleaning up these waterbodies.

    Putting America Back To Work Through Clean Water Infrastructure 
                               Investment

    On July 15, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on investments in Clean Water Act 
infrastructure. The Subcommittee received testimony from 
representatives of the City of New York, New York; the City of 
Kansas City, Missouri; and the District of Columbia's 
wastewater agency; the business community; and labor 
organizations.
    The hearing focused on investments in clean water 
infrastructure and the benefits to the environment and job 
creation that such investment has in the United States. The 
Clean Water SRF is the primary Federal vehicle for funding 
wastewater infrastructure programs throughout the nation. Clean 
Water SRFs are used for capitalization grants for state clean 
water programs and infrastructure. One witness cited a 2009 
report of the Alliance for American Manufacturing, which found 
that infrastructure investment spending will directly create 
18,000 total jobs for every $1 billion in new investment 
spending, and will create additional sources of employment, 
over time, through the maintenance, repair, and improvement of 
these systems. Another witness expressed strong support for the 
$4 billion appropriation to the Clean Water SRF included as 
part of the Recovery Act, which, according to this witness, 
``quite literally, pulled the construction industry back from 
the precipice.''
    The hearing discussion among Members of the Subcommittee 
and witnesses focused on the effectiveness of Recovery Act 
investments in clean water infrastructure and job creation at 
the local and state level. Witnesses also expressed continued 
support for H.R. 1262, the ``Water Quality Investment Act of 
2009''.

   Impact of Green Infrastructure and Low Impact Development on the 
            Nation's Water Quality, Economy, and Communities

    On September 30, 2010, the Subcommittee held a hearing to 
receive testimony on the impact of green infrastructure and 
low-impact development on the nation's water quality, economy, 
and communities. The Subcommittee received testimony from 
Members of Congress; and representatives of the City of 
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; the Town of Edmondson, Maryland; 
the business and development community and the regulated 
community.
    Green infrastructure can take a variety of forms, including 
green roofs, permeable pavement, curb cut-outs, rain swales and 
gardens, increased tree cover, and green space/buffer zones. 
Green infrastructure or low-impact development approaches can 
offer a number of benefits, including mitigation of urban heat 
island effects, reduction of energy demands, reduction of 
stormwater flows, protection from flooding, sequestration of 
carbon, and filtration of air and water pollutants.
    Testimony of the witnesses centered on the experiences of 
several municipalities that have utilized green infrastructure 
projects and the benefits of these efforts in improved water 
quality, which often times, can be achieved in a more cost-
effective and environmentally sustainable manner than 
traditional ``grey-infrastructure'' approaches. While witnesses 
noted that green infrastructure/low-impact development projects 
may not be appropriate in every circumstance, the witnesses 
recognized the value of such approaches, as well as the 
importance of Federal investment in these approaches to further 
their development and implementation. One witness cited to a 
2010 American Rivers report that highlighted the importance of 
the ``Green Project Reserve'' or set-aside of the Recovery Act, 
which dedicated 20 percent of Clean Water SRF funds for green 
infrastructure, water and energy efficiency, and environmental 
innovation, in promoting the awareness, acceptance, and use of 
green infrastructure approaches throughout the nation.





  

                     Summary of Oversight Hearings

           Pursuant to Clauses 2(n), (o), and (p) of Rule XI

              of the Rules of the House of Representatives

    In the 111th Congress, Rule XI of the Rules of the House of 
Representatives was amended to add new clauses 2(n), (o), and 
(p), and establish new oversight requirements for committees.
    New clause (n) requires each standing committee, or a 
subcommittee thereof, to hold at least one hearing during each 
120-day period following the establishment of the committee on 
the topic of waste, fraud, abuse, or mismanagement in 
government programs which that committee may authorize. The 
Committee complied with the requirements of Rule XI by 
conducting 15 separate hearings, including at least two in each 
of the 120-day periods of the 111th Congress.
    Clause (o) requires each committee, or a subcommittee 
thereof, to hold at least one hearing in any session in which 
the committee has received disclaimers of agency financial 
statements from auditors of any Federal agency that the 
committee may authorize to hear testimony on such disclaimers 
from representatives of any such agency. The Committee did not 
receive any disclaimers of agency financial statements from 
auditors of any Federal agency under the Committee's 
jurisdiction.
    Finally, clause (p) requires each standing committee, or a 
subcommittee thereof, to hold at least one hearing on issues 
raised by reports issued by the Comptroller General of the 
United States indicating that Federal programs or operations 
that the committee may authorize are at high risk for waste, 
fraud, and mismanagement, known as the ``high-risk list'' or 
the ``high-risk series''. The Committee conducted three 
hearings concerning programs that are on the Comptroller 
General's ``high-risk series'', and one hearing on a program 
that had previously been identified by the Comptroller on the 
``high-risk series''.
    This chapter of the report provides a summary of the 
hearings conducted pursuant to Clauses 2(n), (o), and (p) of 
Rule XI.

    Date: March 18, 2009.
    Subcommittee: Aviation.
    Title: Air Traffic Control Modernization and the Next 
Generation Air Transportation System: Near-Term Achievable 
Goals.
    Purpose: Receive testimony on the air traffic control 
modernization and the next generation air transportation 
system, an area that had been identified by the Government 
Accountability Office as a ``high risk'' area.
    Result: The Committee has engaged in continuing oversight 
of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Next Generation 
Air Transportation System (NextGen). The project historically 
incurred high costs and complexity, but has shown recent 
improvements. These improvements do not obviate the need for 
continuing oversight.
    The FAA requested that RTCA, Inc. establish a government-
industry NextGen Mid-Term Implementation Task Force (``RTCA 
Task Force'') to forge an aviation community consensus on 
NextGen operational improvements to be implemented between now 
and 2018, maximizing NextGen benefits in the near-term, and 
developing a business case for industry investment in NextGen. 
(RTCA is a private, not-for-profit corporation that operates as 
a Federal Advisory Committee.) The RTCA Task Force was formed 
in January 2009 and consisted of approximately 335 individuals 
from 141 different organizations. On September 9, 2009, the 
Task Force issued its final report and disbanded.
    The report contained several recommendations designed to 
help FAA maximize its ability to deliver near-term benefits and 
build a foundation for the mid-term. Overall, the FAA has been 
engaged and collaborative, and the agency has moved forward on 
a number of the Task Force's recommendations. In early 2010, 
FAA reported in its annual NextGen Implementation Plan (NGIP) 
how it would attempt to address the recommendations, and 
provided timeframes for those actions. The NGIP will provide 
greater transparency and accountability with regard to 
measuring the FAA's progress meeting NextGen milestones.

    Date: March 24, 2009.
    Subcommittee: Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation.
    Title: Overview of Coast Guard Acquisition Policies and 
Programs.
    Purpose: Receive testimony on the Coast Guard's acquisition 
programs, as well as the policies and procedures the service is 
implementing to strengthen its management of the entire 
acquisition process.
    Result: The Coast Guard has begun a comprehensive 
acquisition reform effort. The reforms are necessary to avoid 
repeating the problems the service encountered in the Deepwater 
program and to ensure proper oversight and management of each 
acquisition project. Several improvements included better 
communication among headquarters offices, consolidation of 
project offices, clarification of the roles of key players, and 
changes in policies and processes. The service's efforts at 
reform were being aided through consultation with the Defense 
Acquisition University and others.
    GAO testified that over the two years leading up to the 
hearing, the Coast Guard had repositioned itself to assume 
responsibilities associated with systems integration and 
program management functions that were formerly carried out by 
contractors. GAO stated that a key development had been a shift 
to an asset-by-asset management approach rather than an overall 
system-of-systems acquisition strategy. The new approach 
allowed the Coast Guard to track costs and schedule information 
at the individual asset level which resulted in greater 
capability to identify and report problems.
    GAO also testified that the Coast Guard still faced 
challenges and the outcome of the Deepwater acquisition 
remained uncertain. Further, the failure of not implementing a 
disciplined acquisition approach and the reliance upon a 
contractor to define the Coast Guard's requirements had 
resulted in certain assets being delivered and paid for without 
the Coast Guard having determined whether the assets would meet 
mission needs.
    Coast Guard capital expenditures, including acquisitions, 
are funded through appropriations to the service's Acquisition, 
Construction, and Improvement (AC`I) account. The largest 
single acquisition program to be funded through the AC`I budget 
is the Deepwater acquisition program, which is projected to 
cost $24 billion and require 25 years to complete.
    The most highly publicized failure of the Deepwater 
acquisition project was the effort to lengthen the Coast 
Guard's existing 110-foot patrol boats to 123 feet and install 
new, upgraded information technology equipment. The original 
task order for these vessels was issued in August 2002. In June 
2005, the Coast Guard decided to suspend the conversion process 
after eight boats had been delivered because the converted 
cutters lacked adequate capabilities to meet their expanded 
post-September 11, 2001, operational requirements. In November 
2006, the eight converted boats were removed from service 
because of concerns about their operational safety. The vessels 
have now been de-commissioned.
    The Deepwater program was the subject of intense scrutiny 
and hearings by the Committee in the 110th Congress. While 
improvements to Deepwater followed the Committee's 
intervention, a legislative response was warranted.
    On March 23, 2009, Representative Elijah E. Cummings 
introduced H.R. 1665, the ``Coast Guard Acquisition Reform Act 
of 2009''. The bill passed in the House under suspension of the 
rules on July 29, 2009 by a vote of 426-0. The Senate took no 
action on the bill.
    H.R. 1665 strengthened the Coast Guard's acquisition 
management processes by building on the reforms the Coast Guard 
had already implemented. H.R. 1665 also required independent 
cost estimates for the service's largest acquisitions, the 
appointment of a Chief Acquisition Officer who must be 
certified as a Level III Program Manager and have at least 10 
years of professional experience in acquisition management, and 
the establishment of a dedicated acquisition workforce within 
the Coast Guard.
    H.R. 1665 was later included as Title IV--Acquisition 
Reform, in H.R. 3619, the ``Coast Guard Authorization Act of 
2010''. An amended version of H.R. 3619 passed the House and 
the Senate on September 30, 2010. The bill was signed by the 
President and became Public Law 111-281 on October 15, 2010.

    Date: March 31, 2009
    Subcommittee: Water Resources and Environment
    Title: The Tennessee Valley Authority's Kingston Ash Slide 
and Potential Water Quality Impacts of Coal Combustion Waste 
Storage.
    Purpose: To investigate the potential causes of the coal 
ash spill at the TVA's Kingston Fossil Plant, the response and 
cleanup, as well as receive information on potential water 
quality implications from the ash spill.
    Result: The Clean Water Act directs EPA to develop effluent 
guidelines to limit the amount of pollutants that are 
discharged to surface waters or to sewage treatment plants 
through National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) 
permits. The effluent guidelines for the steam electric power 
generating point source category apply to steam electric 
generating units, including TVA's Kingston Fossil Plant. 
Following the subcommittee's hearing, on March 9, 2010, EPA 
published a notice in the Federal Register that it was 
initiating an Information Collection Request (ICR) for the 
Steam Electric Power Generating effluent guidelines. The need 
to revisit the existing guidelines was demonstrated at the 
hearing.
    This ICR was sent to 733 of the approximately 1,200 fossil- 
and nuclear-fueled steam electric power plants that are 
potentially within the scope of the data collection objectives, 
and will provide the detailed information necessary for EPA to 
consider revising its effluent guidelines for the steam 
electric power generating point source category. According to 
the Federal Register notice, EPA is seeking information on 
potentially more stringent limits for pollutants in steam 
electric power generation facility wastewater, as well as the 
potential impacts of leachate from waste management units 
(i.e., surface impoundments and landfills) entering the 
groundwater system.
    The hearing clearly demonstrated that devastating spills 
such as the spill at Kingston should not occur. The Committee's 
oversight and the public debate will result in improved 
management practices.

    Date: July 15, 2009
    Subcommittee: Economic Development, Public Buildings and 
Emergency Management
    Title: Evaluating GSA's First Experience with National 
Broker Contracts.
    Purpose: To determine whether the National Broker Contract 
provides the General Services Administration (GSA) a legitimate 
tool to meet its statutory obligation to provide commercial 
office space for Federal agencies.
    High Risk Series: This hearing addressed issues related to 
``Managing Federal Real Property'', a topic contained on GAO's 
2009 High Risk Series.
    Result: Based upon the hearing and other data, the 
Committee has continuing concerns regarding the efficacy and 
business case for GSA's reliance upon commission-based brokers 
to augment the in-house tenant representation function 
performed by GSA employees. To that end, the subcommittee has 
commissioned GAO to examine and compare the fee structure 
employed by GSA with corporate users of tenant representation 
services and to examine the overall business case for GSA's 
reliance upon the broker contract commission-based structure, 
as compared to increasing the ranks of Federal employees in 
realty specialist positions, or supplementing Federal realty 
specialists with contract employees hired through consulting 
services contracts on an hourly fee basis.

    Date: July 28, 2009
    Subcommittee: Water Resources and Environment
    Title: The Tennessee Valley Authority's Kingston Ash Slide: 
Evaluation of Potential Causes and Updates on Cleanup Efforts.
    Purpose: Receive updates on the status of the Kingston ash 
slide cleanup efforts and analyses of the root cause of the 
Kingston surface impoundment collapse.
    Result: The subcommittee continued its oversight of the 
Kingston spill following its March 31, 2009 hearing. On May 11, 
2009, EPA entered into an Administrative Order and Agreement on 
Consent (AOC) under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, 
Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (CERCLA), which 
requires TVA to perform all necessary response actions to 
address the release of coal ash from the Kingston Fossil Fuel 
Plant.
    On August 4, 2009, TVA and EPA jointly agreed to an Action 
Memorandum (Request for Removal Action for the Tennessee Valley 
Authority at the Kingston Fossil Plant in Roane County, 
Tennessee) that established the time-critical removal actions 
required to recover, remove, and manage the major portion of 
the approximately 3 million cubic yards of coal ash released 
into the Emory River. This time-critical removal action was 
coordinated and overseen by an EPA On-Scene Coordinator. 
Dredging for the time-critical removal action was completed in 
July, 2010, and off-site removal of dredged coal ash is 
expected to be completed by the end of 2010.
    On October 20, 2010, an engineering consultant hired by TVA 
to assess the safety of the utility's remaining coal ash and 
gypsum ponds reported that only half of the 24 earthen dams at 
TVA ash ponds meet the top safety standard for stability. 
However, according to the consultant, none of the ash ponds 
presents an immediate danger of failure. TVA reports that the 
agency expects to have completed at least 86 ongoing 
engineering and construction projects to improve the safety of 
its ponds by the end of 2011. The Committee's interest in 
ensuring vigilance on the part of TVA and EPA is having 
positive results. Additional oversight of TVA's efforts to 
improve the safety of its storage ponds is essential for 
ensuring public health and safety.

    Date: September 10, 2009
    Committee: Transportation and Infrastructure
    Title: Concerns with Hazardous Materials Safety in the 
U.S.: Is PHMSA Performing its Mission?
    Purpose: Receive concerns with the Pipeline and Hazardous 
Materials Safety Administration's (PHMSA) oversight and 
management of hazardous materials safety in the United States.
    Result: Committee Majority staff released preliminary 
findings of an extensive oversight investigation of the 
Department of Transportation's hazardous materials safety 
program.
    The Committee's investigation, coupled with Department of 
Transportation (DOT) Office of Inspector General (OIG) 
findings, strongly suggests that PHMSA's performance of its 
primary safety mission is less than diligent in far too many 
instances. It appears to be inappropriately ``cozy'' with 
industry, which demands an immediate, high-level policy review.
    The details of the Committee's preliminary findings are: 
PHMSA does not review prior incident or enforcement histories 
of applicants before authorizing special permits and approvals; 
PHMSA does not verify whether an applicant for a special permit 
or approval is (or should be) registered to transport, or offer 
for transport, hazardous material in commerce before 
authorizing a special permit or approval; PHMSA could not 
provide the necessary support for granting an applicant's 
request for a special permit or approval; PHMSA largely relies 
on self-certification by the applicant for special permits and 
approvals; PHMSA allows an unlimited number of unrelated 
entities to utilize special permits granted to other parties; 
PHMSA does not know where special permits are being utilized; 
PHMSA issues special permits to trade associations and allows 
the association members to become ``party to'' the permit 
without any evaluation as to their fitness and ability to carry 
out the terms and conditions of the special permit; PHMSA does 
not follow its own regulations for issuing emergency special 
permits; PHMSA grants emergency special permits to applicants 
absent any meaningful justification for a waiver of the 
regulations; PHMSA is pre-disposed to approving requests for 
special permits, emergency special permits, and approvals; 
there is no process established in law for issuing approvals; 
PHMSA issues approvals to domestic ``agents'' representing 
foreign companies to carry hazardous materials in the United 
States without any evaluation of the fitness of the foreign 
company; investigators identified special permits that should 
be incorporated in the regulations; PHMSA has failed to 
coordinate with the Department of Transportation modal 
administrations, in particular the Federal Aviation 
Administration; PHMSA has largely ignored oversight and 
enforcement concerns; PHMSA found that 60 to 90 percent of all 
accidents are unreported, but little has been done to address 
it; contrary to its claims, PHMSA is not a data-driven agency; 
PHMSA developed a comprehensive plan to address its data issues 
but it was never implemented; there have been concerns that 
PHMSA failed to maintain an arms-length relationship with 
industry; and, PHMSA has lost sight of its safety mission.

    Date: October 14, 2009
    Subcommittee: Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials
    Title: High-Speed Rail in the United States: Opportunities 
and Challenges.
    Purpose: Receive testimony on the opportunities and 
challenges of developing high-speed rail in the United States.
    High Risk Series: This hearing addressed issues related to 
``Funding the Nation's Surface Transportation System'', a topic 
contained on GAO's 2009 High Risk Series.
    Result: The subcommittee heard from a number of witnesses 
on the need to increase Federal investment in rail. The 
witnesses pointed to the discrepancy in historical Federal 
investment between highways, aviation, and intercity passenger 
rail as a major problem. Between 1958 and 2008, nearly $1.3 
trillion has been invested in our nation's highways and more 
than $473 billion in the nation's aviation system. Federal 
investment in passenger rail began in 1971 with the creation of 
the National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak). Between 
1971 and 2008, only $53 billion has been invested in passenger 
rail. Many witnesses supported $9.3 billion investment in high-
speed and intercity passenger rail provided in the American 
Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (111-1). Witnesses also 
supported the $50 billion investment (over six years) for high-
speed and intercity passenger rail contained in the Surface 
Transportation Authorization Act (STAA), which was unveiled in 
June 2009. Additional hearings were held in 2010 focused on 
implementing a national high-speed and intercity passenger rail 
program.

    Date: December 9, 2009
    Subcommittee: Water Resources and Environment
    Title: The One Year Anniversary of the Tennessee Valley 
Authority's Kingston Ash Slide: Evaluating Current Cleanup 
Progress and Assessing Future Environmental Goals.
    Purpose: To receive updates as to the status of the 
Kingston ash slide cleanup efforts, as well as disposal of 
reclaimed and dredged ash in Perry County, Alabama.
    Result: On May 18, 2010, TVA and EPA jointly agreed to an 
Action Memorandum for the Non-Time Critical Removal Action 
Embayment/Dredge Cell components. In this memorandum, TVA 
agreed to the removal of 2.8 million cubic yards of coal ash 
from the Swan Pond Embayment, consolidation and on-site 
disposal of coal ash remaining in the failed dredge cell and 
ash pond, installation of an enhanced perimeter containment 
system around the closed out cell using deep soil-cement mixing 
techniques, and the restoration of the Swan Pond embayment 
ecosystem to pre-spill conditions. Actions pursuant to the 
Action Memorandum are ongoing and are expected to be completed 
by 2015. The Committee's continuing interest in EPA and TVA 
actions reveals that additional oversight of progress on the 
non-time critical removal actions is essential for ensuring 
public health and safety.

    Date: March 3, 2010
    Committee: Transportation and Infrastructure
    Title: The Water Resources Development Act of 2007: A 
Review of Implementation in its Third Year.
    Purpose: To receive testimony on the successes and failures 
associated with implementing the programmatic reforms contained 
in the Water Resources Development Act of 2007.
    Result: On November 8, 2007, Congress enacted the Water 
Resources Development Act of 2007 over the veto of the 
President. Enacting the Water Resources Development Act of 2007 
(WRDA 2007) was only the 107th successful veto override in the 
history of the Congress.
    WRDA 2007 was the culmination of seven years of pent up 
demand for authorizations to address the Nation's water 
resources needs. Among its over 900 projects or programs are 
significant new authorities associated with the Florida 
Everglades, the restoration and protection of coastal Louisiana 
and Mississippi following the devastation of Hurricanes Katrina 
and Rita, and modernization of the nation's water-based 
transportation system.
    In addition to its project and program authorizations, WRDA 
2007 includes the most sweeping reforms of how the Department 
of the Army's Corps of Engineers develops and implements its 
projects and programs since the Water Resources Development Act 
of 1986. Since November 8, 2007, the Department of the Army and 
the Corps of Engineers had been slow to implement the 
programmatic reforms and projects contained in that law. Where 
the Army and the Corps implemented reforms, the results often 
were inadequate and inconsistent with the statute and 
Congressional intent. These shortcomings compelled the 
Committee's oversight of WRDA 2007 implementation.
    The Committee staff prepared a report describing many of 
the most serious deficiencies in implementation. (The Water 
Resources Development Act of 2007, Public Law 110-114, a Report 
on Implementation in the Third Year.) The report described how 
the Department of the Army and Corps of Engineers 
implementation of the major programmatic reforms--mitigation, 
independent review, and the planning principles and 
guidelines--was well behind the schedules established by WRDA 
2007 and did not fulfill the law's intent.
    The implementation documents for WRDA 2007 did not appear 
to have been issued with a sense of priority. Significant 
programmatic changes with immediate and universal applicability 
called for immediate attention. Instead, implementation of 
programmatic reforms was delayed while guidance for unfunded 
activities that would not be implemented was routinely issued.
    In implementing WRDA 2007, the Assistant Secretary and the 
Corps should have allocated resources to programmatic changes 
that have universal applicability and immediate effective 
dates. Of equal importance would be project related provisions 
that have immediate impact on funded activities, or immediate 
impact where funding is not necessary.
    Since the March hearing, the Department of the Army and the 
Corps have improved their WRDA 2007 implementation. The 
Committee continues to monitor implementation to ensure prompt 
adherence with Congressional intent. WRDA 2007 implementation 
will require continuing oversight by the Committee.

    Date: April 14, 2010
    Subcommittee: Highways and Transit
    Title: Using Innovative Financing to Deliver Highway and 
Transit Projects.
    Purpose: To receive testimony on innovative financing 
practices in surface transportation project delivery. This 
hearing is part of the Subcommittee's effort to reauthorize 
Federal surface transportation programs under the Safe, 
Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A 
Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU) (P.L. 109-59).
    High Risk Series: This hearing addressed issues related to 
``Funding the Nation's Surface Transportation System'', a topic 
contained on GAO's 2009 High Risk Series.
    Result: This hearing provided an opportunity to examine the 
role of innovative financing tools and programs that can assist 
in successfully delivering highway and transit projects, and to 
ensure that when these financing tools are utilized, the 
primary focus remains on protecting the public interest and 
providing the maximum public benefit. The Nation continues to 
underinvest in highway and transit projects in relation to the 
need and demand for such projects. The hearing also highlighted 
that while these project financing tools will play an important 
role in addressing the surface transportation investment gap, 
they will not supplant or replace the primary financing 
mechanism of Federal motor fuel tax and the Highway Trust Fund. 
The Committee's record clearly demonstrates that the 
complexities of funding surface transportation warrant serious 
time and attention.

    Date: April 22, 2010
    Committee: Transportation and Infrastructure
    Title: The Department of Transportation's Oversight and 
Management of Hazardous Materials Special Permits and 
Approvals.
    Purpose: To receive testimony on concerns with the Pipeline 
and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration's (PHMSA) 
oversight and management of its special permits and approvals 
program. This hearing is a follow-up to a Committee hearing 
held on September 10, 2009.
    Result: In July 2009, the Committee majority staff launched 
an investigation of PHMSA, including its oversight and 
management of its special permits and approvals program in 
response to significant concerns raised in a Department of 
Transportation Inspector General audit of PHMSA. On September 
10, 2009, the Committee held an oversight hearing on PHMSA's 
special permits and approvals program. Preliminary findings of 
the Majority staff's investigation were publicly released just 
prior to the hearing. In response to the hearings and staff 
findings, Chairman Oberstar introduced H.R. 4016, the Hazardous 
Material Transportation Safety Act of 2009 on November 4, 2009. 
Section 401 of the bill addresses shortcomings in special 
permits and approvals by:
           Maintaining PHMSA's ability to issue special 
        permits so long as the authorized activity is carried 
        out in a way that achieves a safety level at least 
        equal to the safety level required under chapter 51 of 
        title 49, United States Code; or is consistent with the 
        public interest and chapter 51, if a required safety 
        level does not exist;
           Requiring PHMSA to determine that an 
        applicant for a special permit or approval is fit, 
        willing, and able to conduct the activity authorized by 
        the special permit or approval in a safe manner. In 
        making the determination, the Secretary will consider 
        the applicant's safety history (including prior 
        compliance history), accident and incident history, and 
        any other information the Secretary considers 
        appropriate to make such a determination;
           Requiring PHMSA to consult and coordinate 
        with the Federal Aviation Administration, Federal Motor 
        Carrier Safety Administration, and the Federal Railroad 
        Administration prior to issuing a special permit or 
        approval;
           Requiring PHMSA to publish all special 
        permits, including emergency special permits, and 
        approvals in the Federal Register for public review and 
        comment; and
           Authorizing PHMSA to establish a reasonable 
        fee for processing applications for special permits and 
        approvals.
    On November 16, 2009, the Subcommittee on Railroads, 
Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials held a field hearing in 
Baltimore, Maryland, focused on Reauthorization of the 
Department of Transportation's Hazardous Materials Safety 
Program. On November 19, 2009, the Committee on Transportation 
and Infrastructure met in open session to consider H.R. 4016, 
and ordered the bill reported to the House.
    Federal programs intended to protect lives and property are 
of the highest priority. The Committee review of PHSMA 
indicated that serious flaws existed and improvements were 
warranted to ensure agency accountability. The Committee 
responded with the Hazardous Material Transportation Safety Act 
of 2009.

    Date: May 25, 2010
    Subcommittee: Economic Development, Public Buildings and 
Emergency Management
    Title: Eliminating Waste and Managing Space in Federal 
Courthouses: GAO Recommendations on Courthouse Construction, 
Courtroom Sharing, and Enforcing Congressionally Authorized 
Limits on Size and Cost.
    Purpose: To receive testimony from the Government 
Accountability Office (GAO) on its draft report, Federal 
Courthouse Construction: Better Planning, Oversight and 
Courtroom Sharing Needed to Address Future Costs, and 
commentary from representatives of the Judiciary and the 
General Services Administration (GSA) on the draft report.
    Result: The hearing largely confirmed the three principal 
GAO findings of overbuilding by GSA, consistent over-projection 
of future judgeships by the Judiciary, and inadequate courtroom 
sharing by the Judiciary. The result was additional 
expenditures of nearly $900 million. These findings were 
developed on the basis of GAO's modeling of the Judiciary's own 
study of courtroom use. GAO's estimate of the cost attributable 
to the overbuilding by GSA was vociferously contested by GSA, 
with some validity; nonetheless, the hearing substantially 
confirmed the GAO finding that the courthouse construction 
program requires greater oversight and management to ensure 
that unneeded space is not constructed.
    The Committee determined that there is a need for new 
controls on the courthouse construction program through 
legislation to ensure that GSA reports to Congress when it 
plans to exceed authorized dollar limits by ten percent or 
more, when it plans to depart from the authorized square 
footage limitation by five percent or more, and by prescribing 
a courtroom allocation formula based upon numbers of 
Congressionally approved judgeship positions and senior judges. 
Until such legislation is enacted, the Committee will continue 
to control courthouse costs through prescriptions and limits in 
specific project authorizations.

    Date: July 21, 2010
    Subcommittee: Highways and Transit
    Title: Oversight of the Highway Bridge Program and the 
National Bridge Inspection Program.
    Purpose: To receive testimony regarding oversight by the 
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) of the Federal Highway 
Bridge Program (HBP) and the National Bridge Inspection Program 
(NBIP) through testimony from the U.S. Department of 
Transportation (U.S. DOT) Office of Inspector General (IG), 
FHWA, the Government Accountability Office (GAO), and the 
American Association of State Highway and Transportation 
Officials (AASHTO) in preparation for the reauthorization of 
Federal surface transportation programs under the Safe, 
Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A 
Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU) (P.L. 109-59), which expired in 
October 2009.
    Result: The hearing highlighted serious deficiencies in the 
Highway Bridge Program and the National Bridge Inspection 
Program that were identified in numerous reports issued by the 
U.S. Department of Transportation Inspector General and the 
Government Accountability Office. These deficiencies centered 
on inspection of highway bridges, the oversight of state bridge 
programs, and management of Federal Highway Bridge Program 
funds. The hearing also examined a number of provisions 
included in the Committee's Surface Transportation 
Authorization Act to strengthen FHWA's oversight of the Federal 
bridge program and State bridge inspections, including 
provisions establishing a risk-based priority for replacement 
and rehabilitation of deficient bridges; requiring plans for 
inspection and rehabilitation of deficient bridges; requiring 
FHWA to review the compliance of States and other Federal 
agencies with the National Bridge Inspection Standards and 
withhold project approvals for most highway programs for States 
that fail to comply; and establishing procedures for reporting 
on critical findings from bridge inspections. Each of these 
issues concerning management of Highway Bridge Program funds 
requires the continuing work of the Committee as it considers 
long-term surface transportation legislation.

    Date: September 15, 2010
    Committee: Transportation and Infrastructure
    Title: Enbridge Pipeline Oil Spill in Marshall, Michigan.
    Purpose: To receive testimony to receive testimony on the 
recent Enbridge pipeline failure in Marshall, Michigan. The 
failure resulted in the release of an estimated one million 
gallons of crude oil into Talmadge Creek and the Kalamazoo 
River.
    Result: On August 2, 2010, in response to a request of 
Representative Mark H. Schauer, the Committee launched an 
investigation of the Enbridge pipeline failure in Marshall, 
Michigan. The Committee requested numerous documents from 
Enbridge, Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood and 
Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lisa Jackson 
related to the ruptured pipeline. Committee staff also 
conducted nearly 100 interviews with residents impacted by the 
Line 6B rupture in Marshall, Michigan, in addition to 
interviews of Enbridge, Federal, State, and local officials.
    As a result, the Committee identified numerous safety 
deficiencies, including Enbridge's failure to address numerous 
volume imbalance alarms that had sounded in the days leading up 
to the spill, and to address more than 329 defects on Line 6B 
which required repair within 60 to 180 days under Federal 
regulations.
    The Committee also discovered evidence that Enbridge 
pressured residents affected by the oil spill to waive their 
rights to seek damages in exchange for minimal relief services 
such as air purifiers or motel reimbursements and to sign 
authorization forms for the release of all medical records to 
the company. On September 1, 2010, Chairman Oberstar and 
Representative Schauer sent letters to the U.S. Department of 
Justice and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) 
requesting inquiries into Enbridge's practices relating to the 
liability releases and medical information forms. Chairman 
Oberstar and Representative Schauer also wrote to Enbridge 
regarding the allegation, and asked Enbridge to voluntarily 
rescind any and all releases of full and final settlement and 
any and all authorizations for releases of medical records that 
had been signed pursuant to the oil spill in Marshall, 
Michigan. They requested an immediate halt of Enbridge's 
practice of asking residents to sign the forms, and asked for 
copies of all signed forms and related materials.
    On September 3, 2010, Enbridge sent a letter to Chairman 
Oberstar and Representative Schauer stating that residents or 
businesses that were not satisfied with the claims process or 
Enbridge's approach would have the option to seek legal 
recourse. Enbridge committed to reviewing its claims process 
and discontinuing the use of releases that precluded the 
claimant from bringing future claims for physical injuries or 
medical conditions that result from the leak until Enbridge has 
an opportunity to meet with the parties to the letter. Enbridge 
also agreed to discontinue its efforts to obtain authorizations 
for release of medical information.
    In response to the Committee letter, on September 7, 2010, 
Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen 
Sebelius sent a letter to Patrick Daniel, President and Chief 
Executive Officer of Enbridge, stating that if the reports were 
accurate that the company had ``misled or coerced individuals 
to sign forms authorizing the release of personal medical 
records to Enbridge upon referral to a local family health 
center; that these forms authorize the disclosure of an 
inappropriately broad amount of medical information, including 
information wholly unrelated to their current conditions or 
complaints; that the form could be directed to any provider, 
not only the one(s) to which the patient has sought treatment 
for the potentially oil spill-related condition; and that 
Enbridge has failed to adequately inform these individuals of 
their privacy rights under the Health Insurance Portability and 
Accountability Act (HIPAA) . . . that the company's actions are 
a deplorable affront to patients' privacy rights'' and called 
on Enbridge to cease such practices immediately. HHS also 
reported to the Committee that Enbridge's form was not HIPAA 
compliant.
    The hearing led to House passage of H.R. 6008, the 
Corporate Liability and Emergency Accident and Notification 
Act, as a first step toward holding pipeline operators 
accountable for liquid or gas leaks and requiring prompt 
reporting of pipeline incidents.

    Date: September 22, 2010
    Committee: Transportation and Infrastructure
    Title: Residential Through-the-Fence Agreements at Public 
Airports: Action to Date and Challenges Ahead.
    Purpose: To receive testimony regarding residential 
through-the-fence agreements between airport sponsors and the 
owners of residential property adjacent to airports.
    Result: The hearing built a record of evidence of the 
dilemmas that result from situations in which Federal funds are 
used to maintain and improve airports where adjacent homeowners 
enjoy direct rights of access between their homes and airport 
operational surfaces. Evidence established that, in some cases, 
rights of airport access granted by airport sponsors to 
adjacent homeowners limit the expandability and adaptability of 
public-use airports and may be contrary to the purpose of 
Federal investment in those airports. Consistent with testimony 
presented at the hearing, the Federal Aviation Administration 
(FAA) has been moving to finalize revisions to its policy on 
residential through-the-fence agreements. Implementation of 
these revisions, which were announced prior to the hearing, 
will reduce the potential for future residential through-the-
fence access to inappropriately constrain airport development 
or adversely affect aviation safety. FAA officials began 
reviewing public comments on the proposed revisions following 
the closing of the comment period on October 25, 2010.



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