http://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/api.php?action=feedcontributions&user=Suchen-teh&feedformat=atomedegan.com - User contributions [en]2024-03-28T21:01:37ZUser contributionsMediaWiki 1.34.2http://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=Su_Chen_Teh_(Work_Log)&diff=17948Su Chen Teh (Work Log)2017-04-20T14:41:18Z<p>Suchen-teh: </p>
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<div>[[Category:Work Log]]<br />
<br />
[[Su Chen Teh]] [[Work Logs]] [[Su Chen Teh (Work Log)|(log page)]]<br />
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4/20/17 - Worked on McCarthy's Innovation Initiative pages<br />
<br />
4/19/17 - Sent out rejection emails to summer applicants, drafted tweets, worked on McCarthy's Innovation Initiative pages<br />
<br />
4/18/17 - Collated lunch orders, worked on McCarthy's Innovation Initiative pages<br />
<br />
4/17/17 - Drafted tweets, worked on McCarthy's Innovation Initiative pages, distributed flyers to colleges<br />
<br />
4/14/17 - Drafted tweets, worked on McCarthy's Innovation Initiative pages, worked with Juliette on organizing small business committee pages<br />
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4/13/17 - Drafted tweets, collated lunch orders<br />
<br />
4/12/17 - Drafted tweets, helped to photocopy applicants' resumes, worked on McCarthy's Innovation Initiative pages<br />
<br />
4/10/17 - Drafted Facebook posts and tweets for Carried Interest Debate article, worked on the McCarthy's Innovation Initiative pages<br />
<br />
4/7/17 - Drafted tweets, continued collecting the interns' summer plans, worked on the McCarthy's Innovation Initiative pages<br />
<br />
4/6/17 - Added drafts of job listings for McNair summer internships onto Handshake<br />
<br />
4/5/17 - Worked on the House Small Business Committee page and McCarthy's Innovation Initiative pages<br />
<br />
4/4/17 - Drafted some tweets, created the legislation class on the wiki page with Juliette, Anne and Ed <br />
<br />
4/3/17 - Created wiki pages for House Small Business Committee's bill, collected the interns' summer plans<br />
<br />
3/31/17 - Ed taught Juliette and me how to create a new class on the wiki page and how a few properties work, Juliette and I planned how to organize the legislations on the wiki page<br />
<br />
3/30/17 - Drafted a few tweets<br />
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3/29/17 - Drafted a few tweets, and worked on the Foster Innovation Act and HALOS Act pages, edited the template for the McCarthy's Innovation Initiative<br />
<br />
3/27/17 - Figured out how to create a new form and template for the McCarthy's Innovation Initiative series<br />
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3/24/17 - Updated my work log<br />
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3/23/17 - Finished the tweets over spring break<br />
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3/22/17 - Helped Anne do the envelope template for a letter, drafted more tweets<br />
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3/20/17 - Drafted tweets from the backlog over spring break, edited my own wiki page and included my contact details<br />
<br />
3/9/17 - Edited the vCards, drafted tweets<br />
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3/8/17 - Drafted tweets<br />
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3/6/17 - Drafted facebook posts and tweets for the blog posts<br />
<br />
3/3/17 - Drafted several tweets, updated sling with people's spring break plans, help Juliette with blog linking<br />
<br />
3/2/17 - Drafted several tweets<br />
<br />
3/1/17 - Finished most of the contact files, drafted some tweets<br />
<br />
2/27/17 - Created contact files for former student employees, and Baker Institute staff members<br />
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2/24/17 - Drafted some tweets, created contacts files for McNair Center student employees<br />
<br />
2/23/17 - Finished the video<br />
<br />
2/22/17 - Finished the contacts file, worked on the video of the evening with Bob McNair<br />
<br />
2/21/17 - Continued doing the contacts file<br />
<br />
2/20/17 - Created my work log, got oriented with the communications platforms at the McNair Center, was introduced to other interns working here<br />
[[Category:Work Log]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=115-S78_Modernizing_Government_Travel_Act&diff=17946115-S78 Modernizing Government Travel Act2017-04-19T20:36:57Z<p>Suchen-teh: Created page with "{{Legislation |Has title=115-S78 Modernizing Government Travel Act }} ====Sec. 2==== This bill requires the General Services Administration (GSA) to prescribe regulations to..."</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=115-S78 Modernizing Government Travel Act<br />
}}<br />
====Sec. 2====<br />
This bill requires the General Services Administration (GSA) to prescribe regulations to provide for the reimbursement of federal employees traveling on official business for the use of a transportation network company or innovative mobility technology. The Administrative Office of the United States Courts shall prescribe such regulations with respect to judicial branch employees.<br />
<br />
An "innovative mobility technology company" is an entity that applies technology to expand and enhance available transportation choices, better manage demand for transportation services, and provide alternatives to driving alone.<br />
<br />
A "transportation network company" is an entity that uses a digital network to connect riders to drivers affiliated with such entity in order for a driver to provide transportation services to a rider.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 3====<br />
The bill revises the reporting requirements regarding payments pertaining to official travel.<br />
<br />
By November 31 of each year, each agency shall submit to the GSA, in a format prescribed by it and approved by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), an analysis of the total costs of transportation service by type and the total number of trips utilizing each transportation type for purposes of official travel.<br />
<br />
The GSA shall make the data submitted publicly available upon receipt.<br />
<br />
By January 31 of each year, the GSA shall submit to the OMB and to specified congressional committees: (1) an analysis of the data submitted for specified agencies (as listed under a provision regarding the establishment of agency Chief Financial Officers), and (2) a description of any new regulations promulgated or changes to existing regulations authorized.<br />
<br />
<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
115th CONGRESS<br />
1st Session<br />
S. 78<br />
<br />
To provide for reimbursement for the use of modern travel services by Federal employees traveling on official Government business, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES<br />
January 10, 2017<br />
Mr. Lee (for himself, Mr. Cassidy, Mr. Carper, Mr. Booker, and Mr. Johnson) introduced the following bill; which was read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs<br />
<br />
A BILL<br />
To provide for reimbursement for the use of modern travel services by Federal employees traveling on official Government business, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.<br />
<br />
This Act may be cited as the “Modernizing Government Travel Act”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 2. FEDERAL EMPLOYEE REIMBURSEMENT FOR USE OF MODERN TRAVEL SERVICES.<br />
<br />
(a) In General.—Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act—<br />
<br />
(1) the Administrator of General Services shall prescribe regulations under section 5707 of title 5, United States Code, to provide for the reimbursement for the use of a transportation network company or innovative mobility technology company by a Federal employee traveling on official business under subchapter I of chapter 57 of such title; and<br />
<br />
(2) the Director of the Administrative Office of the United States Courts shall prescribe such regulations with respect to the reimbursement of employees of the judicial branch of the Government.<br />
<br />
(b) Definitions.—In this section:<br />
<br />
(1) INNOVATIVE MOBILITY TECHNOLOGY COMPANY.—The term “innovative mobility technology company” means an organization, including a corporation, limited liability company, partnership, sole proprietorship, or any other entity, that applies technology to expand and enhance available transportation choices, better manage demand for transportation services, or provide alternatives to driving alone.<br />
<br />
(2) TRANSPORTATION NETWORK COMPANY.—The term “transportation network company”—<br />
<br />
(A) means a corporation, partnership, sole proprietorship, or other entity that uses a digital network to connect riders to drivers affiliated with the entity in order for the driver to transport the rider using a vehicle owned, leased, or otherwise authorized for use by the driver to a point chosen by the rider; and<br />
<br />
(B) does not include a shared-expense carpool or vanpool arrangement that is not intended to generate profit for the driver.<br />
<br />
SEC. 3. REPORT ON TRANSPORTATION COSTS.<br />
<br />
Section 5707(c) of title 5, United States Code, is amended to read as follows:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(c)(1) Not later than November 31 of each year, the head of each agency shall submit to the Administrator of General Services, in a format prescribed by the Administrator and approved by the Director of the Office of Management and Budget—<br />
<br />
“(A) data on total agency payments for such items as travel and transportation of people, average costs and durations of trips, and purposes of official travel;<br />
<br />
“(B) data on estimated total agency payments for employee relocation; and<br />
<br />
“(C) an analysis of—<br />
<br />
“(i) the total costs of transportation service by type; and<br />
<br />
“(ii) the total number of trips using each transportation type for purposes of official travel.<br />
<br />
“(2) The Administrator of General Services shall make the data and analyses submitted under paragraph (1) publically available upon receipt.<br />
<br />
“(3) Not later than January 31 of each year, the Administrator of General Services shall submit to the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform of the House of Representatives, and the Committee on Homeland Security and Government Affairs of the Senate—<br />
<br />
“(A) an examination of the data and analyses submitted under paragraph (1) for the agencies listed in section 901(b) of title 31;<br />
<br />
“(B) a survey of such data and analyses for each agency not listed in section 901(b) of title 31; and<br />
<br />
“(C) a description of any regulations promulgated, or changes to regulations promulgated, under this section during the previous year.”.<br />
<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/5625 Link to 114th Congress bill page]<br />
https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/78/ Link to 115th Congress bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: McCarthy]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=114-HR6004_Modernizing_Government_Technology_Act&diff=17945114-HR6004 Modernizing Government Technology Act2017-04-19T20:11:01Z<p>Suchen-teh: Created page with "{{Legislation |Has title=114-HR6004 Modernizing Government Technology Act |Proposed in=114 |Sponsored by=Rep. Hurd, Will (R-TX-23) |Reviewing committee=House - Oversight and G..."</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=114-HR6004 Modernizing Government Technology Act<br />
|Proposed in=114<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Hurd, Will (R-TX-23)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House - Oversight and Government Reform, Senate - Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs<br />
|Has bill status=Died<br />
|Has keywords=McCarthy<br />
}}<br />
====Sec. 3====<br />
This bill establishes in each covered agency (specified agencies for which there are Chief Financial Officers) an information technology system modernization and working capital fund which may be used for necessary expenses for the agency to:<br />
*improve, retire, or replace existing information technology systems to improve efficiency and effectiveness;<br />
*transition to cloud computing and innovative platforms and technologies;<br />
*assist and support efforts to provide adequate, risk-based, and cost-effective information technology capabilities that address evolving threats to information security; and<br />
*reimburse amounts transferred from the Information Technology Modernization Fund (ITMF) (established under this bill), with the approval of the agency's Chief Information Officer (CIO).<br />
<br />
Deposits into such fund may include reprogrammed or transferred amounts available for the operation and maintenance of legacy information technology systems. Each agency shall prioritize amounts within such fund to be used initially for cost savings activities approved by the agency's Chief Information Officer. Amounts deposited into an IT working capital fund shall be available for obligation for three years after the date of such deposit.<br />
<br />
Each agency, by one year after this Act's enactment and every six months thereafter, shall submit to the OMB a list of each information technology investment funded by, and a summary of the obligations, expenditures, and unused balances of, the agency's IT working capital fund. The OMB shall make such information publicly available on a website.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 4====<br />
The bill establishes the ITMF for technology related activities, to improve information technology, and to enhance cybersecurity across the federal government. The ITMF shall be administered by the General Services Administration (GSA) in accordance with guidance established by, and with the concurrence of, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).<br />
<br />
The GSA shall:<br />
*transfer amounts from the ITMF to an agency to improve, retire, or replace existing information technology systems to enhance cybersecurity and improve efficiency and effectiveness;<br />
*use amounts in the ITMF for the development, operation, and procurement of information technology products, services, and acquisition vehicles for use by agencies to improve efficiency and cybersecurity; and<br />
*use amounts in the ITMF to provide services or work performed in support of such activities.<br />
<br />
An agency shall: (1) reimburse the ITMF for any such transfer, and (2) pay prices to be fixed by the GSA for such products or services the agency uses at levels sufficient to ensure the solvency of the ITMF. The GSA may obtain reimbursement by the issuance of transfer and counterwarrants if timely payment is not made by an agency.<br />
<br />
The OMB shall publish on a public website and and update quarterly a list of each project funded by the ITMF.<br />
<br />
The bill establishes an Information Technology Modernization Board, which shall:<br />
*evaluate proposals submitted by agencies for funding authorized under the ITMF;<br />
*provide input to the OMB for the development of processes for agencies to submit modernization proposals to the board and to establish the criteria by which such proposals are evaluated;<br />
*make recommendations to the GSA to assist agencies in the further development and refinement of select proposals;<br />
*review and prioritize such modernization proposals;<br />
*identify opportunities to improve or replace multiple information technology systems with a smaller number of information technology systems common to multiple agencies;<br />
*recommend the funding of modernization projects;<br />
*monitor progress and performance in executing approved projects and, if necessary, recommend the suspension or termination of funding; and<br />
*monitor operating costs of the ITMF.<br />
<br />
The GSA shall support board activities and provide technical support to, and oversight of, agencies that receive transfers from the ITMF.<br />
<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/6004/text Link to full bill]<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/6004/ Link to bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: McCarthy]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=114-HRes847_Expressing_the_sense_of_the_House_of_Representatives_about_a_national_strategy_for_the_Internet_of_Things_to_promote_economic_growth_and_consumer_empowerment&diff=17943114-HRes847 Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives about a national strategy for the Internet of Things to promote economic growth and consumer empowerment2017-04-19T19:48:23Z<p>Suchen-teh: Created page with "{{Legislation |Has title=114-HRes847 Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives about a national strategy for the Internet of Things to promote economic growth and c..."</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=114-HRes847 Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives about a national strategy for the Internet of Things to promote economic growth and consumer empowerment<br />
|Proposed in=114<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Lance, Leonard (R-NJ-7)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House - Energy and Commerce<br />
|Has keywords=McCarthy<br />
}}<br />
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the United States should: (1) develop a national strategy to encourage development of the Internet of Things for connected technologies to empower consumers, foster future economic growth, and improve the nation's collective social well-being; (2) recognize the role of businesses in the future development of the Internet of Things; (3) engage in inclusive dialogue with industry and work cooperatively; and (4) determine if using the Internet of Things can improve the government's efficiency and effectiveness and cut waste, fraud, and abuse.<br />
<br />
Calls on U.S. innovators to commit to improving the quality of life for future generations by developing safe, new technologies aimed at tackling the most challenging societal issues facing the world.<br />
<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
H. Res. 847<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
In the House of Representatives, U. S.,<br />
September 12, 2016. <br />
<br />
Whereas the Internet of Things currently connects tens of billions of devices worldwide and has the potential to generate trillions of dollars in economic opportunity;<br />
<br />
Whereas increased connectivity can empower consumers in nearly every aspect of their daily lives, including in the fields of agriculture, education, energy, healthcare, public safety, security, and transportation, to name just a few;<br />
<br />
Whereas businesses across the economy can simplify logistics, cut costs in supply chains, and pass savings on to consumers because of the Internet of Things and innovations derived from it;<br />
<br />
Whereas the Internet of Things, through augmented data collection and process analyses, optimizes energy consumption by increasing energy efficiency and reducing usage and demand;<br />
<br />
Whereas the United States should strive to be a world leader in smart cities and smart infrastructure to ensure its citizens and businesses, in both rural and urban parts of the country, have access to the safest and most resilient communities in the world;<br />
<br />
Whereas the United States is the world leader in developing the Internet of Things technology, and with a national strategy guiding both public and private entities, the United States will continue to produce breakthrough technologies and lead the world in innovation;<br />
<br />
Whereas the evolution of the Internet of Things is a nascent market, the future direction of which holds much promise;<br />
<br />
Whereas businesses should implement reasonable privacy and cybersecurity practices and protect consumers’ personal information to increase confidence, trust, and acceptance of this emerging market;<br />
<br />
Whereas the Internet of Things represents a wide range of technologies, in numerous industry sectors and overseen by various governmental entities; and<br />
<br />
Whereas coordination between all stakeholders of the Internet of Things on relevant developments, impediments, and achievements is a vital ingredient to the continued advancement of pioneering technology: Now, therefore, be it<br />
<br />
Resolved, That it is the sense of the House of Representatives that—<br />
<br />
(1) the United States should develop a national strategy to encourage the development of the Internet of Things in a way that maximizes the promise connected technologies hold to empower consumers, foster future economic growth, and improve the Nation’s collective social well-being;<br />
<br />
(2) the United States should prioritize accelerating the development and deployment of the Internet of Things in a way that recognizes its benefits, allows for future innovation, and responsibly protects against misuse;<br />
<br />
(3) the United States should recognize the important role that businesses play in the future development of the Internet of Things and engage in inclusive dialogue with industry and work cooperatively wherever possible;<br />
<br />
(4) the United States Government should determine if using the Internet of Things can improve Government efficiency and effectiveness and cut waste, fraud, and abuse; and<br />
<br />
(5) using the Internet of Things, innovators in the United States should commit to improving the quality of life for future generations by developing safe, new technologies aimed at tackling the most challenging societal issues facing the world.<br />
<br />
Attest:<br />
Clerk. <br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-resolution/847/ Link to bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: McCarthy]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=114-HRes835_Expressing_the_sense_of_the_House_of_Representatives_that_the_United_States_should_adopt_a_national_policy_for_technology_to_promote_consumers%27_access_to_financial_tools_and_online_commerce_to_promote_economic_growth_and_consumer_empowerment&diff=17942114-HRes835 Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the United States should adopt a national policy for technology to promote consumers' access to financial tools and online commerce to promote economic growth and consumer empowerment2017-04-19T19:47:26Z<p>Suchen-teh: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=114-HRes835 Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the United States should adopt a national policy for technology to promote consumers' access to financial tools and online commerce to promote economic growth and consumer empowerment<br />
|Proposed in=114<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Kinzinger, Adam (R-IL-16)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House - Energy and Commerce<br />
|Has keywords=McCarthy<br />
}}<br />
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the United States should:<br />
*develop a national policy to encourage the development of tools for consumers to learn and protect their assets in a way that maximizes the promise customized, connected devices hold to empower consumers, foster future economic growth, and create new commerce and markets;<br />
*prioritize accelerating the development of alternative technologies that support transparency, security, and authentication in a way that recognizes their benefits, allows for future innovation, and responsibly protects consumers' personal information;<br />
*recognize that technology experts can play an important role in the future development of consumer-facing technology applications for manufacturing, automobiles, telecommunications, tourism, health care, energy, and general commerce; and<br />
*support further innovation and economic growth and ensure cybersecurity and the protection of consumer privacy.<br />
<br />
Calls for innovators in technology, manufacturing, automobiles, telecommunications, tourism, health care, and energy industries to commit to improving the quality of life for future generations by developing new technology that is safe and consumer protective and that is aimed at improving consumers' access to commerce.<br />
<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
H. Res. 835<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
In the House of Representatives, U. S.,<br />
September 12, 2016. <br />
<br />
Whereas technology solutions have the potential to improve consumers’ ability to control their economic well-being, to encourage their financial literacy, and improve their knowledge base and increase their options to manage their finances and engage in commerce;<br />
<br />
Whereas new payment methods and new payment strategies reflect new commercial opportunities;<br />
<br />
Whereas the United States is the world leader in software development and technology creation;<br />
<br />
Whereas financial technology is creating new opportunities for the 24,800,000 underbanked households in the United States;<br />
<br />
Whereas the growth of consumers’ use of mobile devices and the deployment of broadband access has supported the growth of financial technology products and services outside of traditional products and services offered by banks and other financial institutions in the United States increasing commerce and job growth;<br />
<br />
Whereas identity theft is a rising concern for people in the United States as their personal information is targeted by criminal enterprises for monetization on the black market;<br />
<br />
Whereas cyberattacks against domestic and international financial institutions and cooperatives continue;<br />
<br />
Whereas emerging payment options, including alternative non-fiat currencies, are leveraging technology to improve security through increased transparency and verifiable trust mechanisms to supplant decades old payment technology deployed by traditional financial institutions; and<br />
<br />
Whereas blockchain technology with the appropriate protections has the potential to fundamentally change the manner in which trust and security are established in online transactions through various potential applications in sectors including financial services, payments, health care, energy, property management, and intellectual property management: Now, therefore, be it<br />
<br />
Resolved, That it is the sense of the House of Representatives that—<br />
<br />
(1) the United States should develop a national policy to encourage the development of tools for consumers to learn and protect their assets in a way that maximizes the promise customized, connected devices hold to empower consumers, foster future economic growth, create new commerce and new markets;<br />
<br />
(2) the United States should prioritize accelerating the development of alternative technologies that support transparency, security, and authentication in a way that recognizes their benefits, allows for future innovation, and responsibly protects consumers’ personal information;<br />
<br />
(3) the United States should recognize that technology experts can play an important role in the future development of consumer-facing technology applications for manufacturing, automobiles, telecommunications, tourism, health care, energy, and general commerce;<br />
<br />
(4) the United States should support further innovation, and economic growth, and ensure cybersecurity, and the protection of consumer privacy; and<br />
<br />
(5) innovators in technology, manufacturing, automobiles, telecommunications, tourism, health care, and energy industries should commit to improving the quality of life for future generations by developing safe and consumer protective, new technology aimed at improving consumers’ access to commerce.<br />
<br />
Attest:<br />
Clerk. <br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-resolution/835/ Link to bill page]<br />
<br />
'''Edits'''<br />
*title should be shorter... maybe summary of the the long title or just 114-HRes835? <br />
*This is a resolution, should we have a category defined for resolutions since they and bills have different functions?<br />
<br />
[[Category: McCarthy]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=114-HR5638_Solar_Fuels_Innovation_Act&diff=17941114-HR5638 Solar Fuels Innovation Act2017-04-19T19:45:25Z<p>Suchen-teh: Created page with "{{Legislation |Has title=114-HR5638 Solar Fuels Innovation Act |Proposed in=114 |Sponsored by=Rep. Knight, Stephen (R-CA-25) |Reviewing committee=House - Science, Space, and T..."</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=114-HR5638 Solar Fuels Innovation Act<br />
|Proposed in=114<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Knight, Stephen (R-CA-25)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House - Science, Space, and Technology, Senate - Energy and Natural Resources<br />
|Has bill status=Died<br />
|Has keywords=McCarthy<br />
}}<br />
====Sec. 2====<br />
This bill amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 by requiring the Department of Energy (DOE) to carry out the Solar Fuels Basic Research Initiative to expand scientific knowledge about converting solar energy into chemical energy. Specifically, DOE must support research about: (1) replicating natural photosynthetic processes in artificial photosynthesis processes, and (2) generating a variety of fuels produced from sunlight through artificial photosynthesis. (A photosynthetic process is one used by plants to convert light from the sun into chemical energy. Artificial, human-made photosynthesis mimics the natural process.)<br />
<br />
Appropriations authorized under the bill may not be obligated or expended for commercial application of energy technology.<br />
<br />
The bill repeals a requirement for DOE to support a research and development program in catalysis science (the acceleration of a chemical reaction by a catalyst).<br />
<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
114th CONGRESS<br />
2d Session<br />
H. R. 5638<br />
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES<br />
July 12, 2016<br />
Received; read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources<br />
<br />
AN ACT<br />
To provide for the establishment at the Department of Energy of a Solar Fuels Basic Research Initiative.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.<br />
<br />
This Act may be cited as the “Solar Fuels Innovation Act”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 2. SOLAR FUELS BASIC RESEARCH INITIATIVE.<br />
<br />
(a) Amendment.—Section 973 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 16313) is amended to read as follows:<br />
<br />
“SEC. 973. SOLAR FUELS BASIC RESEARCH INITIATIVE.<br />
<br />
“(a) Initiative.—<br />
<br />
“(1) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary shall carry out a research initiative, to be known as the Solar Fuels Basic Research Initiative, to expand theoretical and fundamental knowledge of photochemistry, electrochemistry, biochemistry, and materials science useful for the practical development of experimental systems to convert solar energy to chemical energy.<br />
<br />
“(2) LEVERAGING.—The Secretary shall leverage expertise and resources from the Basic Energy Sciences Program and Biological and Environmental Research Program within the Office of Science, and the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, as provided under subsections (b) and (c).<br />
<br />
“(3) TEAMS.—The Secretary shall organize activities under the Solar Fuels Basic Research Initiative to include multidisciplinary teams leveraging expertise from the National Laboratories, universities, and the private sector to the extent practicable. These multidisciplinary teams shall pursue aggressive, milestone-driven basic research goals. The Secretary shall provide sufficient resources for those teams to achieve those goals over a period of time to be determined by the Secretary.<br />
<br />
“(4) ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES.—The Secretary is authorized to organize additional activities under this subsection through Energy Frontier Research Centers, Energy Innovation Hubs, or other organizational structures.<br />
<br />
“(b) Artificial Photosynthesis.—<br />
<br />
“(1) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary shall, as part of the Solar Fuels Basic Research Initiative, carry out a program to support research needed to bridge scientific barriers and discover knowledge relevant to artificial photosynthetic systems. In carrying out activities under this subsection, the Director of the Office of Basic Energy Sciences shall support basic research to pursue distinct lines of scientific inquiry, including photoinduced production of hydrogen and oxygen from water, and the sustainable photoinduced reduction of carbon dioxide to fuel products including hydrocarbons, alcohols, carbon monoxide, and natural gas. The Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy shall support translational research, development, and validation of physical concepts developed under this subsection.<br />
<br />
“(2) STANDARD OF REVIEW.—The Secretary shall review the program activities under this subsection to determine the achievement of technical milestones.<br />
<br />
“(3) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.—<br />
<br />
“(A) AUTHORIZATION.—Subject to subsection (d), there are authorized for carrying out activities under this subsection for each of fiscal years 2017 through 2020—<br />
<br />
“(i) $50,000,000 from funds within the Basic Energy Sciences Program account; and<br />
<br />
“(ii) $25,000,000 from funds within the Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy account.<br />
<br />
“(B) PROHIBITION.—No funds authorized under this subsection may be obligated or expended for commercial application of energy technology.<br />
<br />
“(c) Biochemistry, Replication Of Natural Photosynthesis, And Related Processes.—<br />
<br />
“(1) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary shall, as part of the Solar Fuels Basic Research Initiative, carry out a program to support research needed to replicate natural photosynthetic processes by use of artificial photosynthetic components and materials. In carrying out activities under this subsection, the Director of the Office of Basic Energy Sciences shall support basic research to expand fundamental knowledge to replicate natural synthesis processes, including the photoinduced reduction of dinitrogen to ammonia, absorption of carbon dioxide from ambient air, molecular-based charge separation and storage, photoinitiated electron transfer, and catalysis in biological or biomimetic systems. The Associate Director of Biological and Environmental Research shall support systems biology and genomics approaches to understand genetic and physiological pathways connected to photosynthetic mechanisms. The Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy shall support translational research, development, and validation of physical concepts developed under this subsection.<br />
<br />
“(2) STANDARD OF REVIEW.—The Secretary shall review the program activities under this subsection to determine the achievement of technical milestones.<br />
<br />
“(3) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.—<br />
<br />
“(A) AUTHORIZATION.—Subject to subsection (d), there are authorized for carrying out activities under this subsection for each of fiscal years 2017 through 2020—<br />
<br />
“(i) $50,000,000 from funds within the Basic Energy Sciences Program and Biological and Environmental Research Program accounts; and<br />
<br />
“(ii) $25,000,000 from funds within the Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy account.<br />
<br />
“(B) PROHIBITION.—No funds authorized under this subsection may be obligated or expended for commercial application of energy technology.<br />
<br />
“(d) Funding.—No additional funds are authorized to be appropriated under this section. This section shall be carried out using funds otherwise authorized by law.”.<br />
<br />
(b) Table Of Contents Amendment.—The item relating to section 973 in the table of contents of such Act is amended to read as follows:<br />
<br />
<br />
“Sec. 973. Solar Fuels Basic Research Initiative.”.<br />
Passed the House of Representatives July 11, 2016.<br />
<br />
Attest: karen l. haas, <br />
Clerk<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/5638/ Link to bill page]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=114-HR5640_Electricity_Storage_Innovation_Act&diff=17940114-HR5640 Electricity Storage Innovation Act2017-04-19T19:40:31Z<p>Suchen-teh: Created page with "{{Legislation |Has title=114-HR5640 Electricity Storage Innovation Act |Proposed in=114 |Sponsored by=Rep. Smith, Lamar (R-TX-21) |Reviewing committee=House - Science, Space,..."</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=114-HR5640 Electricity Storage Innovation Act<br />
|Proposed in=114<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Smith, Lamar (R-TX-21)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House - Science, Space, and Technology, Senate - Energy and Natural Resources<br />
|Has bill status=Died<br />
|Has keywords=McCarthy<br />
}}<br />
====Sec. 2====<br />
This bill requires the Department of Energy (DOE) to establish the Electricity Storage Basic Research Initiative. The initiative is designed to expand knowledge related to the control, storage, and conversion of electrical energy into chemical energy, and chemical energy into electrical energy.<br />
<br />
DOE must support specific programs within its Office of Science and Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy as part of the initiative.<br />
<br />
In addition, DOE must organize activities under the initiative utilizing research teams consisting of experts from the national laboratories, universities, and the private sector.<br />
<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
114th CONGRESS<br />
2d Session<br />
H. R. 5640<br />
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES<br />
July 12, 2016<br />
Received; read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources<br />
<br />
AN ACT<br />
To provide for the establishment at the Department of Energy of an Electricity Storage Basic Research Initiative.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.<br />
<br />
This Act may be cited as the “Electricity Storage Innovation Act”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 2. ELECTRICITY STORAGE BASIC RESEARCH INITIATIVE.<br />
<br />
(a) Amendment.—Section 975 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 16315) is amended to read as follows:<br />
<br />
“SEC. 975. ELECTRICITY STORAGE BASIC RESEARCH INITIATIVE.<br />
<br />
“(a) Initiative.—<br />
<br />
“(1) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary shall carry out a research initiative, to be known as the Electricity Storage Basic Research Initiative, to expand theoretical and fundamental knowledge to control, store, and convert electrical energy to chemical energy and the inverse. This initiative shall support scientific inquiry into the practical understanding of chemical and physical processes that occur within systems involving crystalline and amorphous solids, polymers, and organic and aqueous liquids.<br />
<br />
“(2) LEVERAGING.—The Secretary shall leverage expertise and resources from the Basic Energy Sciences Program, Advanced Scientific Computing Research Program, and Biological and Environmental Research Program within the Office of Science, and the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, as provided under subsections (b), (c), and (d).<br />
<br />
“(3) TEAMS.—The Secretary shall organize activities under the Electricity Storage Basic Research Initiative to include multidisciplinary teams leveraging expertise from the National Laboratories, universities, and the private sector to the extent practicable. These multidisciplinary teams shall pursue aggressive, milestone-driven basic research goals. The Secretary shall provide sufficient resources for those teams to achieve those goals over a period of time to be determined by the Secretary.<br />
<br />
“(4) ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES.—The Secretary is authorized to organize additional activities under this subsection through Energy Frontier Research Centers, Energy Innovation Hubs, or other organizational structures.<br />
<br />
“(b) Multivalent Systems.—<br />
<br />
“(1) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary shall, as part of the Electricity Storage Basic Research Initiative, carry out a program to support research needed to bridge scientific barriers and discover knowledge relevant to multivalent ion materials in electric energy storage systems. In carrying out activities under this subsection, the Director of the Office of Basic Energy Sciences shall investigate electrochemical properties and the dynamics of materials, including charge transfer phenomena and mass transport in materials. The Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy shall support translational research, development, and validation of physical concepts developed under this subsection.<br />
<br />
“(2) STANDARD OF REVIEW.—The Secretary shall review the program activities under this subsection to determine the achievement of technical milestones.<br />
<br />
“(3) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.—<br />
<br />
“(A) AUTHORIZATION.—Subject to subsection (e), there are authorized for carrying out activities under this subsection for each of fiscal years 2017 through 2020—<br />
<br />
“(i) $50,000,000 from funds within the Basic Energy Sciences Program account; and<br />
<br />
“(ii) $25,000,000 from funds within the Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy account.<br />
<br />
“(B) PROHIBITION.—No funds authorized under this subsection may be obligated or expended for commercial application of energy technology.<br />
<br />
“(c) Electrochemistry Modeling And Simulation.—<br />
<br />
“(1) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary shall, as part of the Electricity Storage Basic Research Initiative, carry out a program to support research to model and simulate organic electrolytes, including their static and dynamic electrochemical behavior and phenomena at the molecular and atomic level in monovalent and multivalent systems. In carrying out activities under this subsection, the Director of the Office of Basic Energy Sciences shall, in coordination with the Associate Director of Advanced Scientific Computing Research, support the development of high performance computational tools through a joint development process to maximize the effectiveness of current and projected high performance computing systems. The Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy shall support translational research, development, and validation of physical concepts developed under this subsection.<br />
<br />
“(2) STANDARD OF REVIEW.—The Secretary shall review the program activities under this subsection to determine the achievement of technical milestones.<br />
<br />
“(3) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.—<br />
<br />
“(A) AUTHORIZATION.—Subject to subsection (e), there are authorized for carrying out activities under this subsection for each of fiscal years 2017 through 2020—<br />
<br />
“(i) $30,000,000 from funds within the Basic Energy Sciences Program and Advanced Scientific Computing Research Program accounts; and<br />
<br />
“(ii) $15,000,000 from funds within the Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy account.<br />
<br />
“(B) PROHIBITION.—No funds authorized under this subsection may be obligated or expended for commercial application of energy technology.<br />
<br />
“(d) Mesoscale Electrochemistry.—<br />
<br />
“(1) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary shall, as part of the Electricity Storage Basic Research Initiative, carry out a program to support research needed to reveal electrochemistry in confined mesoscale spaces, including scientific discoveries relevant to bio-electrochemistry and electrochemical energy conversion and storage in confined spaces and the dynamics of these phenomena. In carrying out activities under this subsection, the Director of the Office of Basic Energy Sciences and the Associate Director of Biological and Environmental Research shall investigate phenomena of mesoscale electrochemical confinement for the purpose of replicating and controlling new electrochemical behavior. The Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy shall support translational research, development, and validation of physical concepts developed under this subsection.<br />
<br />
“(2) STANDARD OF REVIEW.—The Secretary shall review the program activities under this subsection to determine the achievement of technical milestones.<br />
<br />
“(3) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.—<br />
<br />
“(A) AUTHORIZATION.—Subject to subsection (e), there are authorized for carrying out activities under this subsection for each of fiscal years 2017 through 2020—<br />
<br />
“(i) $20,000,000 from funds within the Basic Energy Sciences Program and the Biological and Environmental Research Program accounts; and<br />
<br />
“(ii) $10,000,000 from funds within the Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy account.<br />
<br />
“(B) PROHIBITION.—No funds authorized under this subsection may be obligated or expended for commercial application of energy technology.<br />
<br />
“(e) Funding.—No additional funds are authorized to be appropriated under this section. This section shall be carried out using funds otherwise authorized by law.”.<br />
<br />
(b) Table Of Contents Amendment.—The item relating to section 975 in the table of contents of such Act is amended to read as follows:<br />
<br />
<br />
“Sec. 975. Electricity Storage Basic Research Initiative.”.<br />
Passed the House of Representatives July 11, 2016.<br />
<br />
Attest: karen l. haas, <br />
Clerk<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/5640/ Link to bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: McCarthy]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=Su_Chen_Teh_(Work_Log)&diff=17939Su Chen Teh (Work Log)2017-04-19T19:35:55Z<p>Suchen-teh: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:Work Log]]<br />
<br />
[[Su Chen Teh]] [[Work Logs]] [[Su Chen Teh (Work Log)|(log page)]]<br />
<br />
4/19/17 - Sent out rejection emails to summer applicants, drafted tweets, worked on McCarthy's Innovation Initiative pages<br />
<br />
4/18/17 - Collated lunch orders, worked on McCarthy's Innovation Initiative pages<br />
<br />
4/17/17 - Drafted tweets, worked on McCarthy's Innovation Initiative pages, distributed flyers to colleges<br />
<br />
4/14/17 - Drafted tweets, worked on McCarthy's Innovation Initiative pages, worked with Juliette on organizing small business committee pages<br />
<br />
4/13/17 - Drafted tweets, collated lunch orders<br />
<br />
4/12/17 - Drafted tweets, helped to photocopy applicants' resumes, worked on McCarthy's Innovation Initiative pages<br />
<br />
4/10/17 - Drafted Facebook posts and tweets for Carried Interest Debate article, worked on the McCarthy's Innovation Initiative pages<br />
<br />
4/7/17 - Drafted tweets, continued collecting the interns' summer plans, worked on the McCarthy's Innovation Initiative pages<br />
<br />
4/6/17 - Added drafts of job listings for McNair summer internships onto Handshake<br />
<br />
4/5/17 - Worked on the House Small Business Committee page and McCarthy's Innovation Initiative pages<br />
<br />
4/4/17 - Drafted some tweets, created the legislation class on the wiki page with Juliette, Anne and Ed <br />
<br />
4/3/17 - Created wiki pages for House Small Business Committee's bill, collected the interns' summer plans<br />
<br />
3/31/17 - Ed taught Juliette and me how to create a new class on the wiki page and how a few properties work, Juliette and I planned how to organize the legislations on the wiki page<br />
<br />
3/30/17 - Drafted a few tweets<br />
<br />
3/29/17 - Drafted a few tweets, and worked on the Foster Innovation Act and HALOS Act pages, edited the template for the McCarthy's Innovation Initiative<br />
<br />
3/27/17 - Figured out how to create a new form and template for the McCarthy's Innovation Initiative series<br />
<br />
3/24/17 - Updated my work log<br />
<br />
3/23/17 - Finished the tweets over spring break<br />
<br />
3/22/17 - Helped Anne do the envelope template for a letter, drafted more tweets<br />
<br />
3/20/17 - Drafted tweets from the backlog over spring break, edited my own wiki page and included my contact details<br />
<br />
3/9/17 - Edited the vCards, drafted tweets<br />
<br />
3/8/17 - Drafted tweets<br />
<br />
3/6/17 - Drafted facebook posts and tweets for the blog posts<br />
<br />
3/3/17 - Drafted several tweets, updated sling with people's spring break plans, help Juliette with blog linking<br />
<br />
3/2/17 - Drafted several tweets<br />
<br />
3/1/17 - Finished most of the contact files, drafted some tweets<br />
<br />
2/27/17 - Created contact files for former student employees, and Baker Institute staff members<br />
<br />
2/24/17 - Drafted some tweets, created contacts files for McNair Center student employees<br />
<br />
2/23/17 - Finished the video<br />
<br />
2/22/17 - Finished the contacts file, worked on the video of the evening with Bob McNair<br />
<br />
2/21/17 - Continued doing the contacts file<br />
<br />
2/20/17 - Created my work log, got oriented with the communications platforms at the McNair Center, was introduced to other interns working here<br />
[[Category:Work Log]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=Su_Chen_Teh_(Work_Log)&diff=17938Su Chen Teh (Work Log)2017-04-19T19:09:29Z<p>Suchen-teh: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:Work Log]]<br />
<br />
[[Su Chen Teh]] [[Work Logs]] [[Su Chen Teh (Work Log)|(log page)]]<br />
<br />
4/19/17 - Sent out rejection emails to summer applicants<br />
<br />
4/18/17 - Collated lunch orders, worked on McCarthy's Innovation Initiative pages<br />
<br />
4/17/17 - Drafted tweets, worked on McCarthy's Innovation Initiative pages, distributed flyers to colleges<br />
<br />
4/14/17 - Drafted tweets, worked on McCarthy's Innovation Initiative pages, worked with Juliette on organizing small business committee pages<br />
<br />
4/13/17 - Drafted tweets, collated lunch orders<br />
<br />
4/12/17 - Drafted tweets, helped to photocopy applicants' resumes, worked on McCarthy's Innovation Initiative pages<br />
<br />
4/10/17 - Drafted Facebook posts and tweets for Carried Interest Debate article, worked on the McCarthy's Innovation Initiative pages<br />
<br />
4/7/17 - Drafted tweets, continued collecting the interns' summer plans, worked on the McCarthy's Innovation Initiative pages<br />
<br />
4/6/17 - Added drafts of job listings for McNair summer internships onto Handshake<br />
<br />
4/5/17 - Worked on the House Small Business Committee page and McCarthy's Innovation Initiative pages<br />
<br />
4/4/17 - Drafted some tweets, created the legislation class on the wiki page with Juliette, Anne and Ed <br />
<br />
4/3/17 - Created wiki pages for House Small Business Committee's bill, collected the interns' summer plans<br />
<br />
3/31/17 - Ed taught Juliette and me how to create a new class on the wiki page and how a few properties work, Juliette and I planned how to organize the legislations on the wiki page<br />
<br />
3/30/17 - Drafted a few tweets<br />
<br />
3/29/17 - Drafted a few tweets, and worked on the Foster Innovation Act and HALOS Act pages, edited the template for the McCarthy's Innovation Initiative<br />
<br />
3/27/17 - Figured out how to create a new form and template for the McCarthy's Innovation Initiative series<br />
<br />
3/24/17 - Updated my work log<br />
<br />
3/23/17 - Finished the tweets over spring break<br />
<br />
3/22/17 - Helped Anne do the envelope template for a letter, drafted more tweets<br />
<br />
3/20/17 - Drafted tweets from the backlog over spring break, edited my own wiki page and included my contact details<br />
<br />
3/9/17 - Edited the vCards, drafted tweets<br />
<br />
3/8/17 - Drafted tweets<br />
<br />
3/6/17 - Drafted facebook posts and tweets for the blog posts<br />
<br />
3/3/17 - Drafted several tweets, updated sling with people's spring break plans, help Juliette with blog linking<br />
<br />
3/2/17 - Drafted several tweets<br />
<br />
3/1/17 - Finished most of the contact files, drafted some tweets<br />
<br />
2/27/17 - Created contact files for former student employees, and Baker Institute staff members<br />
<br />
2/24/17 - Drafted some tweets, created contacts files for McNair Center student employees<br />
<br />
2/23/17 - Finished the video<br />
<br />
2/22/17 - Finished the contacts file, worked on the video of the evening with Bob McNair<br />
<br />
2/21/17 - Continued doing the contacts file<br />
<br />
2/20/17 - Created my work log, got oriented with the communications platforms at the McNair Center, was introduced to other interns working here<br />
[[Category:Work Log]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=115-HR39_TALENT_Act&diff=17910115-HR39 TALENT Act2017-04-18T19:14:47Z<p>Suchen-teh: Created page with "{{Legislation |Has title=115-HR39 TALENT Act |Proposed in=115 |Sponsored by=Rep. McCarthy, Kevin (R-CA-23) |Reviewing committee=House - Oversight and Government Reform |Has bi..."</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=115-HR39 TALENT Act<br />
|Proposed in=115<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. McCarthy, Kevin (R-CA-23)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House - Oversight and Government Reform<br />
|Has bill status=Enacted<br />
|Has keywords=McCarthy<br />
}}<br />
The TALENT Act is short for the "Tested Ability to Leverage Exceptional National Talent Act".<br />
<br />
====Sec. 2====<br />
This bill codifies provisions establishing the Presidential Innovation Fellows Program (originally established pursuant to Executive Order 13704) to encourage successful entrepreneurs, executives, and innovators to join the government and work in close cooperation with government leaders to create meaningful solutions that can help save lives and taxpayer money, fuel job creation, and significantly improve how the government serves the American people.<br />
<br />
The General Services Administration (GSA) shall continue the program in order to enable exceptional individuals with proven track records to serve time-limited appointments in executive agencies to address some of the nation's most significant challenges and improve existing government efforts that would particularly benefit from expertise using innovative techniques and technology.<br />
<br />
The program shall be administered by a Director, who shall appoint program fellows and facilitate their placement to participate in projects that have the potential for significant positive effects and that are consistent with the President's goals.<br />
<br />
The GSA shall continue an advisory board to recommend priorities and standards for fulfilling the program's mission and to assist in identifying potential projects and placements for fellows.<br />
<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
One Hundred Fifteenth Congress of the United States of America<br />
At the First Session<br />
Begun and held at the City of Washington on Tuesday, the third day of January, two thousand and seventeen<br />
H. R. 39<br />
<br />
AN ACT<br />
<br />
To amend title 5, United States Code, to codify the Presidential Innovation Fellows Program, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
1.Short title<br />
This Act may be cited as the Tested Ability to Leverage Exceptional National Talent Act of 2017 or the TALENT Act of 2017.<br />
<br />
2.Presidential Innovation Fellows Program<br />
(a)In general<br />
Chapter 31 of title 5, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:<br />
<br />
V<br />
Presidential Innovation Fellows Program<br />
<br />
3171.Presidential Innovation Fellows Program<br />
(a)Policy<br />
It is in the national interest for the Government to attract the brightest minds skilled in technology or innovative practices to serve in the Government to work on some of the Nation’s biggest and most pressing challenges. This subchapter establishes a program to encourage successful entrepreneurs, executives, and innovators to join the Government and work in close cooperation with Government leaders, to create meaningful solutions that can help save lives and taxpayer money, fuel job creation, and significantly improve how the Government serves the American people.<br />
<br />
(b)Establishment<br />
The Administrator of General Services shall continue the Presidential Innovation Fellows Program (hereinafter referred to as the Program) to enable exceptional individuals with proven track records to serve time-limited appointments in executive agencies to address some of the Nation’s most significant challenges and improve existing Government efforts that would particularly benefit from expertise using innovative techniques and technology.<br />
<br />
(c)Administration<br />
The Program shall be administered by a Director, appointed by the Administrator under authorities of the General Services Administration. The Administrator shall provide necessary staff, resources and administrative support for the Program.<br />
<br />
(d)Appointment of fellows<br />
The Director shall appoint fellows pursuant to the Program and, in cooperation with executive agencies, shall facilitate placement of fellows to participate in projects that have the potential for significant positive effects and are consistent with the President’s goals.<br />
<br />
(e)Application process<br />
(1)In general<br />
The Director shall prescribe the process for applications and nominations of individuals to the Program.<br />
<br />
(2)Program standards<br />
Following publication of these processes, the Director may accept for consideration applications from individuals. The Director shall establish, administer, review, and revise, if appropriate, a Governmentwide cap on the number of fellows. The Director shall establish and publish salary ranges, benefits, and standards for the Program.<br />
<br />
(f)Selection, appointment, and assignment of fellows<br />
(1)Procedures<br />
The Director shall prescribe appropriate procedures for the selection, appointment, and assignment of fellows.<br />
<br />
(2)Consultation<br />
Prior to the selection of fellows, the Director shall consult with the heads of executive agencies regarding potential projects and how best to meet those needs. Following such consultation, the Director shall select and appoint individuals to serve as fellows.<br />
<br />
(3)Time limitation<br />
Fellows selected for the Program shall serve under short-term, time-limited appointments. Such fellows shall be appointed for no less than 6 months and no longer than 2 years in the Program. The Director shall facilitate the process of placing fellows at requesting executive agencies.<br />
<br />
(g)Responsibilities of agencies<br />
Each executive agency shall work with the Director and the Presidential Innovation Fellows Program advisory board established under section 3172 to attempt to maximize the Program’s benefits to the agency and the Government, including by identifying initiatives that have a meaningful effect on the people served and that benefit from involvement by one or more fellows. Such agencies shall ensure that each fellow works closely with responsible senior officials for the duration of the assignment.<br />
<br />
3172.Presidential Innovation Fellows Program advisory board<br />
(a)In general<br />
The Administrator of General Services shall continue an advisory board to advise the Director of the Presidential Innovation Fellows Program by recommending such priorities and standards as may be beneficial to fulfill the mission of the Presidential Innovation Fellows Program and assist in identifying potential projects and placements for fellows. The advisory board may not participate in the selection process under section 3171(f).<br />
<br />
(b)Chair; membership<br />
The Administrator shall designate a representative to serve as the Chair of the advisory board. In addition to the Chair, the membership of the advisory board shall include—<br />
<br />
(1)the Deputy Director for Management of the Office of Management and Budget;<br />
(2)the Director of the Office of Personnel Management;<br />
(3)the Administrator of the Office of Electronic Government of the Office of Management and Budget;<br />
(4)the Assistant to the President and Chief Technology Officer; and<br />
(5)other individuals as may be designated by the Administrator.<br />
(c)Consultation<br />
The advisory board may consult with industry, academia, or nonprofits to ensure the Presidential Innovation Fellows Program is continually identifying opportunities to apply advanced skillsets and innovative practices in effective ways to address the Nation’s most significant challenges.<br />
<br />
.<br />
<br />
(b)Clerical amendment<br />
The table of sections for chapter 31 of title 5, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:<br />
<br />
Subchapter V—Presidential Innovation Fellows Program<br />
<br />
3171. Presidential Innovation Fellows Program.<br />
3172. Presidential Innovation Fellows Program advisory board.<br />
.<br />
<br />
(c)Transition<br />
The Presidential Innovation Fellows Program established pursuant to Executive Order No. 13704 (5 U.S.C. 3301 note) as in existence on the day before the date of enactment of this Act shall be considered the Presidential Innovation Fellows Program described in the amendments made by this Act.<br />
<br />
(d)No additional funds authorized<br />
No additional funds are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this Act or the amendments made by this Act. This Act and the amendments made by this Act shall be carried out using amounts otherwise authorized.<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/39 Link to 115th Congress bill page]<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/5658 Link to 114th Congress bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: McCarthy]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=114-HR4498_HALOS_Act&diff=17909114-HR4498 HALOS Act2017-04-18T19:14:36Z<p>Suchen-teh: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=114-HR4498 HALOS Act<br />
|Proposed in=114<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Chabot, Steve (R-OH-1)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House - Financial Services, Senate - Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs<br />
|Has bill status=Died<br />
|Has keywords=McCarthy<br />
}}<br />
The HALOS Act is short for the "Helping Angels Lead Our Startups Act".<br />
<br />
====Sec. 3====<br />
This bill directs the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to amend Regulation D (governing the limited offer and sale of securities without registration under the Securities Act of 1933) to make the prohibition against general solicitation or general advertising inapplicable to events with specified kinds of sponsors (including angel investor groups not connected to broker-dealers or investment advisers) where:<br />
*presentations or communications are made by or on behalf of an issuer,<br />
*the advertising does not refer to any specific offering of securities by the issuer,<br />
*the sponsor does not engage in certain activities (such as offering investment recommendations or advice to attendees),<br />
*the sponsor does not receive compensation for the event which would require registration as a broker or dealer or as an investment advisor, and<br />
*no specific information regarding a securities offering is communicated (other than that the issuer is in the process of offering or planning to offer securities, including the type and amount of securities being offered).<br />
<br />
This bill may only be construed as requiring the SEC to amend Regulation D with respect to presentations and communications, and not with respect to purchases or sales.<br />
<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
<br />
114th CONGRESS<br />
2d Session<br />
H. R. 4498<br />
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES<br />
April 28, 2016<br />
Received; read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs<br />
<br />
AN ACT<br />
To clarify the definition of general solicitation under Federal securities law.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.<br />
<br />
This Act may be cited as the “Helping Angels Lead Our Startups Act” or the “HALOS Act”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 2. DEFINITION OF ANGEL INVESTOR GROUP.<br />
<br />
As used in this Act, the term “angel investor group” means any group that—<br />
<br />
(1) is composed of accredited investors interested in investing personal capital in early-stage companies;<br />
<br />
(2) holds regular meetings and has defined processes and procedures for making investment decisions, either individually or among the membership of the group as a whole; and<br />
<br />
(3) is neither associated nor affiliated with brokers, dealers, or investment advisers.<br />
<br />
SEC. 3. CLARIFICATION OF GENERAL SOLICITATION.<br />
<br />
(a) In General.—Not later than 6 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Securities and Exchange Commission shall revise Regulation D of its rules (17 CFR 230.500 et seq.) to require that in carrying out the prohibition against general solicitation or general advertising contained in section 230.502(c) of title 17, Code of Federal Regulations, the prohibition shall not apply to a presentation or other communication made by or on behalf of an issuer which is made at an event—<br />
<br />
(1) sponsored by—<br />
<br />
(A) the United States or any territory thereof, by the District of Columbia, by any State, by a political subdivision of any State or territory, or by any agency or public instrumentality of any of the foregoing;<br />
<br />
(B) a college, university, or other institution of higher education;<br />
<br />
(C) a nonprofit organization;<br />
<br />
(D) an angel investor group;<br />
<br />
(E) a venture forum, venture capital association, or trade association; or<br />
<br />
(F) any other group, person or entity as the Securities and Exchange Commission may determine by rule;<br />
<br />
(2) where any advertising for the event does not reference any specific offering of securities by the issuer;<br />
<br />
(3) the sponsor of which—<br />
<br />
(A) does not make investment recommendations or provide investment advice to event attendees;<br />
<br />
(B) does not engage in an active role in any investment negotiations between the issuer and investors attending the event;<br />
<br />
(C) does not charge event attendees any fees other than administrative fees; and<br />
<br />
(D) does not receive any compensation with respect to such event that would require registration of the sponsor as a broker or a dealer under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, or as an investment advisor under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940; and<br />
<br />
(4) where no specific information regarding an offering of securities by the issuer is communicated or distributed by or on behalf of the issuer, other than—<br />
<br />
(A) that the issuer is in the process of offering securities or planning to offer securities;<br />
<br />
(B) the type and amount of securities being offered;<br />
<br />
(C) the amount of securities being offered that have already been subscribed for; and<br />
<br />
(D) the intended use of proceeds of the offering.<br />
<br />
(b) Rule Of Construction.—Subsection (a) may only be construed as requiring the Securities and Exchange Commission to amend the requirements of Regulation D with respect to presentations and communications, and not with respect to purchases or sales.<br />
<br />
Passed the House of Representatives April 27, 2016.<br />
<br />
Attest: karen l. haas, <br />
Clerk<br />
<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/4498 Link to bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: McCarthy]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=115-HR1465_National_Cybersecurity_Preparedness_Consortium_Act&diff=17908115-HR1465 National Cybersecurity Preparedness Consortium Act2017-04-18T19:10:43Z<p>Suchen-teh: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=115-HR1465 National Cybersecurity Preparedness Consortium Act<br />
|Proposed in=115<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Castro, Joaquin (D-TX-20)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House - Homeland Security<br />
|Has bill status=Proposed<br />
|Has keywords=McCarthy<br />
}}<br />
This bill authorizes the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to work with a consortium, including the National Cybersecurity Preparedness Consortium, to support efforts to address cybersecurity risks and incidents, including threats or acts of terrorism.<br />
<br />
DHS may work with such a consortium to assist its national cybersecurity and communications integration center to:<br />
*provide training to state and local first responders and officials, develop curriculums, and provide technical assistance;<br />
*conduct cross-sector cybersecurity training and simulation exercises for state and local governments, critical infrastructure owners and operators, and private industry;<br />
*help states and communities develop cybersecurity information sharing programs; and<br />
*help incorporate cybersecurity risk and incident prevention and response into existing state and local emergency plans and continuity of operations plans.<br />
<br />
DHS's authority to carry out this bill terminates five years after its enactment.<br />
<br />
This bill was also previously introduced in the 114th Congress (HR4743) with the same sponsor. <br />
<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
115th CONGRESS<br />
1st Session<br />
H. R. 1465<br />
<br />
To authorize the Secretary of Homeland Security to work with cybersecurity consortia for training, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES<br />
March 9, 2017<br />
Mr. Castro of Texas (for himself, Mr. Hurd, Mr. Doggett, Mr. Smith of Texas, and Mr. Cuellar) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Homeland Security<br />
<br />
A BILL<br />
To authorize the Secretary of Homeland Security to work with cybersecurity consortia for training, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.<br />
<br />
This Act may be cited as the “National Cybersecurity Preparedness Consortium Act of 2017”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.<br />
<br />
In this Act—<br />
<br />
(1) the term “consortium” means a group primarily composed of nonprofit entities, including academic institutions, that develop, update, and deliver cybersecurity training in support of homeland security;<br />
<br />
(2) the terms “cybersecurity risk” and “incident” have the meanings given those terms in section 227(a) of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 148(a));<br />
<br />
(3) the term “Department” means the Department of Homeland Security; and<br />
<br />
(4) the term “Secretary” means the Secretary of Homeland Security.<br />
<br />
SEC. 3. NATIONAL CYBERSECURITY PREPAREDNESS CONSORTIUM.<br />
<br />
(a) In General.—The Secretary may work with a consortium, including the National Cybersecurity Preparedness Consortium, to support efforts to address cybersecurity risks and incidents, including threats of terrorism and acts of terrorism.<br />
<br />
(b) Assistance To The NCCIC.—The Secretary may work with a consortium to assist the national cybersecurity and communications integration center of the Department (established under section 227 of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 148)) to—<br />
<br />
(1) provide training to State and local first responders and officials specifically for preparing for and responding to cybersecurity risks and incidents, including threats of terrorism and acts of terrorism, in accordance with applicable law;<br />
<br />
(2) develop and update a curriculum utilizing existing programs and models in accordance with such section 227, for State and local first responders and officials, related to cybersecurity risks and incidents, including threats of terrorism and acts of terrorism;<br />
<br />
(3) provide technical assistance services to build and sustain capabilities in support of preparedness for and response to cybersecurity risks and incidents, including threats of terrorism and acts of terrorism, in accordance with such section 227;<br />
<br />
(4) conduct cross-sector cybersecurity training and simulation exercises for entities, including State and local governments, critical infrastructure owners and operators, and private industry, to encourage community-wide coordination in defending against and responding to cybersecurity risks and incidents, including threats of terrorism and acts of terrorism, in accordance with section 228(c) of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 149(c));<br />
<br />
(5) help States and communities develop cybersecurity information sharing programs, in accordance with section 227 of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 148), for the dissemination of homeland security information related to cybersecurity risks and incidents, including threats of terrorism and acts of terrorism; and<br />
<br />
(6) help incorporate cybersecurity risk and incident prevention and response (including related to threats of terrorism and acts of terrorism) into existing State and local emergency plans, including continuity of operations plans.<br />
<br />
(c) Prohibition On Duplication.—In carrying out the functions under subsection (b), the Secretary shall, to the greatest extent practicable, seek to prevent unnecessary duplication of existing programs or efforts of the Department.<br />
<br />
(d) Considerations Regarding Selection Of A Consortium.—In selecting a consortium with which to work under this Act, the Secretary shall take into consideration the following:<br />
<br />
(1) Any prior experience conducting cybersecurity training and exercises for State and local entities.<br />
<br />
(2) Geographic diversity of the members of any such consortium so as to cover different regions throughout the United States.<br />
<br />
(e) Metrics.—If the Secretary works with a consortium under subsection (a), the Secretary shall measure the effectiveness of the activities undertaken by the consortium under this Act.<br />
<br />
(f) Outreach.—The Secretary shall conduct outreach to universities and colleges, including historically Black colleges and universities, Hispanic-serving institutions, Tribal Colleges and Universities, and other minority-serving institutions, regarding opportunities to support efforts to address cybersecurity risks and incidents, including threats of terrorism and acts of terrorism, by working with the Secretary under subsection (a).<br />
<br />
(g) Termination.—The authority to carry out this Act shall terminate on the date that is five years after the date of the enactment of this Act.<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/1465 Link to 115th Congress bill page]<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/4743/ Link to 114th Congress bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: McCarthy]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=115-HR1560_Protecting_Cyber_Networks_Act&diff=17907115-HR1560 Protecting Cyber Networks Act2017-04-18T19:10:08Z<p>Suchen-teh: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=115-HR1560 Protecting Cyber Networks Act<br />
|Proposed in=114<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Nunes, Devin (R-CA-22)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House - Intelligence (Permanent), Senate - Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs<br />
|Has bill status=Died<br />
|Has keywords=McCarthy<br />
}}<br />
==Summary==<br />
<br />
===TITLE I--PROTECTING CYBER NETWORKS ACT===<br />
<br />
Protecting Cyber Networks Act<br />
<br />
====Sec. 102====<br />
Amends the National Security Act of 1947 to require the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) to develop and promulgate procedures to promote: (1) the timely sharing of classified and declassified cyber threat indicators in possession of the federal government with private entities, non-federal government agencies, or state, tribal, or local governments; and (2) the sharing of imminent or ongoing cybersecurity threats with such entities to prevent or mitigate adverse impacts.<br />
<br />
Requires the procedures to provide for: (1) notification to entities when the federal government has shared indicators in error or in contravention of law; and (2) the federal government, prior to sharing indicators, to remove personal information of, or information identifying, a specific person not directly related to a cybersecurity threat.<br />
<br />
Directs the DNI to submit such procedures to Congress within 90 days after enactment of this title.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 103====<br />
Permits private entities to monitor or operate defensive measures to prevent or mitigate cybersecurity threats or security vulnerabilities, or to identify the source of a threat, on: (1) their own information systems; and (2) with written authorization, the information systems of other private or government entities. Authorizes entities to conduct such activities on information that is stored on, processed by, or transiting such monitored systems.<br />
<br />
Prohibits defensive measures from being used to destroy, render unusable or inaccessible, or substantially harm an information system that is not owned by: (1) the operator of the defensive measure, or (2) an entity that authorizes the operation of defensive measures on its systems.<br />
<br />
Allows non-federal entities to share and receive indicators or defensive measures with other non-federal entities or specifically designated federal entities, but does not authorize non-federal entities to share directly with components of the Department of Defense (DOD), including the National Security Agency (NSA). Allows otherwise lawful sharing by non-federal entities of indicators or defensive measures with DOD or the NSA. Requires recipients to comply with lawful restrictions that sharing entities place on the sharing or use of shared indicators or defensive measures.<br />
<br />
Requires non-federal entities monitoring, operating, or sharing indicators or defensive measures: (1) to implement security controls to protect against unauthorized access or acquisitions; and (2) prior to sharing an indicator, to take reasonable efforts to remove information that the non-federal entity reasonably believes to be personal information of, or information identifying, a specific person not directly related to a cybersecurity threat.<br />
<br />
Permits state, tribal, or local agencies to use shared indicators or defensive measures:<br />
*to protect (including through the use of a defensive measure) an information system or information that is stored on, processed by, or transiting an information system from a cybersecurity threat or security vulnerability or to identify the source of a cybersecurity threat;<br />
*to respond to, prosecute, prevent, or mitigate a threat of death or serious bodily harm or an offense arising out of such a threat; or<br />
*to respond to, prevent, or mitigate a serious threat to a minor, including sexual exploitation and threats to physical safety.<br />
<br />
Requires the Small Business Administration (SBA) to provide assistance to small businesses and financial institutions to monitor information systems, operate defensive measures, and share and receive indicators and defensive measures. Directs the SBA to submit to the President a report regarding the degree to which small businesses and financial institutions are able to engage in such sharing. Requires the federal government to conduct outreach to encourage such businesses and institutions to engage in those activities.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 104====<br />
Directs the President to report on procedures for the receipt of cyber threat indicators and defensive measures by the federal government. Requires the procedures to ensure that: (1) cyber threat indicators shared by a non-federal entity with the Department of Commerce, the Department of Energy, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the Department of Justice (DOJ), the Department of the Treasury, and the DNI (but not DOD, including the NSA) are shared in real time with all appropriate federal entities; (2) such indicators are provided to other relevant federal entities; (3) there is an audit capability; and (4) there are appropriate sanctions for federal officers, employees, or agents who use shared indicators or defensive measures in an unauthorized manner.<br />
<br />
Requires DOJ to develop and periodically review privacy and civil liberties guidelines to govern the receipt, retention, use, and dissemination of cyber threat indicators by federal entities, including guidelines to ensure that personal information of, or information identifying, specific persons is properly removed from information received, retained, used, or disseminated by a federal entity.<br />
<br />
Establishes within the Office of the Director of National Intelligence a Cyber Threat Intelligence Integration Center (CTIIC) to serve as the primary organization within the federal government for analyzing and integrating all intelligence possessed or acquired by the United States pertaining to cyber threats. Requires the CTIIC to: (1) ensure that appropriate agencies receive all-source intelligence support to execute cyber threat intelligence activities and perform independent, alternative analyses; (2) disseminate threat analysis to the President, federal agencies, and Congress; and (3) coordinate federal cyber threat intelligence activities and conduct strategic planning.<br />
<br />
Requires the head of the CTIIC to be appointed by the DNI.<br />
<br />
Authorizes indicators or defensive measures to be disclosed to, retained by, and used by, consistent with otherwise applicable federal law, any agency or agent of the federal government solely for:<br />
*protecting an information system or information that is stored on, processed by, or transiting an information system from a cybersecurity threat or security vulnerability or identifying the source of a cybersecurity threat;<br />
*responding to, investigating, prosecuting, or otherwise preventing or mitigating a threat of death or serious bodily harm or an offense arising out of such a threat;<br />
*responding to, investigating, prosecuting, or otherwise preventing or mitigating a serious threat to a minor, including sexual exploitation and threats to physical safety; or<br />
*preventing, investigating, disrupting, or prosecuting specified criminal offenses relating to fraud and identity theft, serious violent felonies, espionage and censorship, or trade secrets.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 105====<br />
Allows a person to bring a private cause of action against the federal government if an agency intentionally or willfully violates DOJ's privacy and civil liberties guidelines.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 106====<br />
Provides liability protections to: (1) private entities that monitor information systems; or (2) non-federal entities that share, receive, or fail, in good faith, to act upon shared indicators or defensive measures.<br />
<br />
Prohibits such liability protections from being construed to apply to willful misconduct.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 107====<br />
Requires reports to Congress, at least biennially, by: (1) the DNI regarding the implementation of the federal government's information sharing procedures, including assessments of any misuse of information or disciplinary actions taken; and (2) inspectors general of specified agencies regarding the receipt, use, and dissemination of indicators and defensive measures that have been shared with federal entities.<br />
<br />
Directs the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board, every two years, to report to Congress and the President regarding the sufficiency of procedures to address privacy and civil liberties concerns.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 108====<br />
Directs the DNI, in a report to Congress regarding cyber threats, attacks, theft, and data breaches, to: (1) assess current U.S. intelligence sharing and cooperation relationships with other countries regarding cybersecurity threats to U.S. national security interests, the economy, and intellectual property; (2) list countries and non-state actors that are primary threats; (3) describe U.S. response and prevention capabilities; and (4) assess additional technologies that would enhance U.S. capabilities, including private sector technologies that could be rapidly fielded to assist the intelligence community.<br />
<br />
Requires unclassified portions of reports under this title to be made publicly available.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 109====<br />
Prohibits this title from being construed to: (1) authorize the federal government to conduct surveillance of a person or allow the intelligence community to target a person for surveillance; (2) limit lawful disclosures of communications or records, including reporting of known or suspected criminal activity, by a non-federal entity to another non-federal entity or the federal government; or (3) permit the federal government to require a non-federal entity to provide information to the federal government.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 111====<br />
Requires the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to report on federal actions to remove personal information from shared cyber threat indicators.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 112====<br />
Terminates the provisions of this title seven years after its enactment.<br />
<br />
===TITLE II--NATIONAL CYBERSECURITY PROTECTION ADVANCEMENT ACT===<br />
<br />
National Cybersecurity Protection Advancement Act of 2015<br />
<br />
====Sec. 202====<br />
Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to allow DHS's national cybersecurity and communications integration center (NCCIC) to include tribal governments, information sharing and analysis centers, and private entities among its non-federal representatives. Expands the composition of the NCCIC to include:<br />
*a collaborator with state and local governments on cybersecurity risks and incidents;<br />
*a U.S. Computer Emergency Readiness Team that coordinates and shares information in a timely manner and provides technical assistance, upon request, to information system owners and operators;<br />
*the Industrial Control System Cyber Emergency Response Team that coordinates with owners and operators of industrial control systems, provides requested training, and remains current on industry adoption of new technologies;<br />
*a National Coordinating Center for Communications that coordinates the protection, response, and recovery of emergency communications; and<br />
*a coordinator of small and medium-sized businesses.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 203====<br />
Requires the NCCIC to be the lead federal civilian interface for multi-directional and cross-sector sharing of information related to cyber threat indicators, defensive measures, and cybersecurity risks for federal and non-federal entities. Expands the NCCIC's functions to include:<br />
*global cybersecurity with international partners;<br />
*information sharing across critical infrastructure sectors, with state and major urban area fusion centers and with small and medium-sized businesses;<br />
*notification to Congress regarding any significant violations of information retention or disclosure policies;<br />
*notification to non-federal entities of indicators or defensive measures shared in error or in contravention of specified requirements; and<br />
*participation in exercises run by DHS's National Exercise Program.<br />
<br />
Excludes from the definition of "cybersecurity risk" violations of consumer terms of service or licensing agreements.<br />
<br />
Requires the NCCIC to designate an agency contact for non-federal entities.<br />
<br />
Directs the NCCIC to: (1) safeguard cybersecurity information against unauthorized disclosure, and (2) work with the Chief Privacy Officer to follow appropriate privacy procedures.<br />
<br />
Requires the Under Secretary for Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Protection (the Under Secretary) to develop capabilities that make use of existing industry standards to advance implementation of automated mechanisms for the timely sharing of indicators and defensive measures to and from the NCCIC and with federal agencies designated as sector specific agencies for critical infrastructure sectors.<br />
<br />
Directs the Under Secretary, every six months, to provide Congress with progress reports regarding the development of such capabilities.<br />
<br />
Authorizes the NCCIC to enter voluntary information sharing relationships with consenting non-federal entities.<br />
<br />
Directs the Under Secretary to develop procedures for coordinating vulnerability disclosures consistent with international standards.<br />
<br />
Allows non-federal entities, for cybersecurity purposes, to share with other non-federal entities or the NCCIC any indicators or defensive measures obtained from: (1) their own information systems; or (2) the information systems of other federal or non-federal entities, with written consent. Authorizes non-federal entities (excluding state, local, or tribal governments) to conduct network awareness to scan, identify, acquire, monitor, log, or analyze information, or to operate defensive measures, on the information systems of entities that provide consent.<br />
<br />
Requires entities, prior to sharing, to take reasonable efforts to: (1) exclude information that can be used to identify specific persons and that is unrelated to cybersecurity risks or incidents, and (2) safeguard information that can be used to identify specific persons from unintended disclosure or unauthorized access or acquisition.<br />
<br />
Directs the Under Secretary to establish and annually review privacy and civil liberties policies governing the receipt, retention, use, and disclosure of cybersecurity information shared with the NCCIC. Provides for such policies to apply only to DHS. Allows the Under Secretary to consult with the National Institute of Standards and Technology on such policies.<br />
<br />
Requires the Chief Privacy Officer to:<br />
*monitor implementation of such privacy and civil liberties policies;<br />
*update privacy impact assessments on a regular basis to ensure that all relevant privacy protections are followed;<br />
*work with the Under Secretary to carry out certain notifications to Congress and non-federal entities;<br />
*submit an annual report to Congress regarding the effectiveness of DHS's privacy and civil liberties policies; and<br />
*ensure appropriate sanctions for DHS officers, employees, or agents who intentionally or willfully conduct activities in an unauthorized manner.<br />
<br />
Directs the DHS Inspector General to periodically report to Congress with a review of the use of cybersecurity risk information shared with the NCCIC.<br />
<br />
Requires the Chief Privacy Officer and the Chief Civil Rights and Civil Liberties Officer to biennially submit a report to Congress that: (1) assesses the privacy and civil liberties impact of DHS's retention, use, and disclosure policies; and (2) recommends methods to minimize or mitigate the impact of sharing indicators and defensive measures.<br />
<br />
Prohibits federal entities from using shared indicators or defensive measures to engage in surveillance or other collection activities for the purpose of tracking an individual's personally identifiable information, except for purposes authorized under this section. Bars the federal government from using such information for regulatory purposes.<br />
<br />
Provides liability protections to non-federal entities (excluding state, local, or tribal governments) acting in accordance with this section that: (1) conduct network awareness, or (2) share indicators or defensive measures or that fail, in good faith, to act based on such sharing.<br />
<br />
Prohibits such liability protections from being construed to apply to willful misconduct.<br />
<br />
Establishes a private cause of action that a person may bring against the federal government if a federal agency intentionally or willfully violates restrictions on the use and protection of voluntarily shared indicators or defensive measures.<br />
<br />
Exempts from antitrust laws non-federal entities that, for cybersecurity purposes, share: (1) cyber threat indicators or defensive measures; or (2) assistance relating to the prevention, investigation, or mitigation of cybersecurity risks or incidents. Makes such exemption inapplicable to price-fixing, allocating a market between competitors, monopolizing or attempting to monopolize a market, or exchanges of price or cost information, customer lists, or information regarding future competitive planning.<br />
<br />
Prohibits this section from being construed to permit the federal government to require a non-federal entity to provide information to a federal entity.<br />
<br />
Requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to: (1) develop procedures for the NCCIC Director to report directly to the Secretary regarding significant cybersecurity risks and incidents, and (2) promote a national awareness effort to educate the general public on the importance of securing information systems.<br />
<br />
Directs DHS to report to Congress on the range of efforts underway to bolster cybersecurity collaboration with relevant international partners.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 204====<br />
Expands the purpose of information sharing and analysis organizations to include responsibilities for disseminating information about cybersecurity risks and incidents.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 205====<br />
Redesignates DHS's National Protection and Programs Directorate as the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Protection. Requires the President to appoint: (1) the Under Secretary, with the advice and consent of the Senate; and (2) the Deputy Under Secretaries for Cybersecurity and for Infrastructure Protection, without the advice and consent of the Senate. Requires the Under Secretary to report to Congress regarding the feasibility of becoming an operational component.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 206====<br />
Requires the Secretary to regularly update, maintain, and exercise the Cyber Incident Annex to DHS's National Response Framework.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 207====<br />
Requires the NCCIC to facilitate improvements to the security and resiliency of public safety communications.<br />
<br />
Directs the Under Secretary to implement a cybersecurity awareness campaign to disseminate: (1) public service announcements targeted at state, local, and tribal governments, the private sector, academia, and stakeholders in specific audiences, including the elderly, students, small businesses, members of the Armed Forces, and veterans; and (2) vendor and technology-neutral voluntary best practices.<br />
<br />
Requires DHS to establish a National Cybersecurity Preparedness Consortium to:<br />
*train state and local first responders and officials to prepare for and respond to cyber attacks,<br />
*develop a curriculum utilizing the DHS-sponsored Community Cyber Security Maturity Model,<br />
*provide technical assistance,<br />
*conduct cybersecurity training and simulation exercises,<br />
*coordinate with the NCCIC to help states and communities develop information sharing programs, and<br />
*coordinate with the National Domestic Preparedness Consortium to incorporate cybersecurity emergency responses into existing state and local emergency management functions.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 208====<br />
Directs the Under Secretary for Science and Technology to biennially provide to Congress an updated strategic plan to guide the overall direction of federal physical security and cybersecurity technology research and development efforts for protecting critical infrastructure. Requires the plan to:<br />
*identify critical infrastructure security risks and any associated security technology gaps;<br />
*prioritize technology needs based on gaps, risks, evolving threats, and technology advancements;<br />
*include research, development, and acquisition roadmaps with clearly defined objectives, goals, and measures;<br />
*identify laboratories, facilities, modeling, and simulation capabilities required to support new technologies; and<br />
*identify programmatic initiatives for the rapid advancement and deployment of security technologies for critical infrastructure protection, including public-private partnerships, intragovernment collaboration, university centers of excellence, and national laboratory technology transfers.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 209====<br />
Requires DHS to report to Congress regarding the feasibility of DHS reducing cybersecurity risks in DHS data centers, including by increasing compartmentalization between systems and providing a mix of security controls between such compartments.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 210====<br />
Directs the GAO to report on DHS's implementation of this title, including any findings regarding increases in sharing at the NCCIC and throughout the United States.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 211====<br />
Requires the Under Secretary to produce a report on the feasibility of creating a risk-informed prioritization plan should multiple critical infrastructures experience cyber incidents simultaneously.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 212====<br />
Directs the DHS Inspector General to review operations of the U.S. Computer Emergency Readiness Team and the Industrial Control Systems Cyber Emergency Response Team to assess the capacity to provide technical assistance to non-federal entities and to adequately respond to potential increases in requests for technical assistance.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 213====<br />
Prohibits this title from being construed to grant DHS any authority to promulgate regulations or set standards relating to the cybersecurity of non-federal entities (excluding state, local, and tribal governments) that were not in effect on the day before the enactment of this title.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 214====<br />
Terminates reporting requirements under this title seven years after enactment of this title.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 216====<br />
Requires DHS to deploy and operate (to make available for use by any federal agency, with or without reimbursement) capabilities to protect federal agency information and information systems, including technologies to continuously diagnose, detect, prevent, and mitigate against cybersecurity risks involving such systems. Authorizes the DHS Secretary to access, and allows federal agency heads to disclose to the Secretary, information traveling to or from or stored on a federal agency information system, regardless of from where the Secretary accesses such information, notwithstanding any law that would otherwise restrict or prevent federal agency heads from disclosing such information to the Secretary.<br />
<br />
Allows a private entity to assist the Secretary in carrying out such activities.<br />
<br />
Authorizes the Secretary to retain, use, and disclose information obtained through the conduct of activities authorized under this section only to protect federal agency information and information systems from cybersecurity risks, or, with DOJ approval and if disclosure of such information is not otherwise prohibited by law, to law enforcement only to investigate, prosecute, disrupt, or otherwise respond to:<br />
*criminal computer fraud;<br />
*an imminent threat of death or serious bodily harm;<br />
*a serious threat to a minor, including sexual exploitation or threats to physical safety; or<br />
*an attempt or conspiracy to commit any of such offenses.<br />
<br />
Provides liability protections to private entities that provide assistance to the Secretary for such purposes.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 217==== Terminates the provisions of this title seven years after its enactment.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 218====<br />
Requires DHS to report to Congress with recommendations to mitigate cybersecurity vulnerabilities for the 10 U.S. ports that are at greatest risk of a cybersecurity incident.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 219==== <br />
Authorizes DHS to consult with sector specific agencies, businesses, and stakeholders to submit to Congress a report on how to align federally funded cybersecurity research and development activities with private sector efforts to protect privacy and civil liberties while assuring security and resilience of the nation's critical infrastructure.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 220====<br />
Directs the GAO to assess the impact on privacy and civil liberties limited to the work of the NCCIC.<br />
<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/1560/ Link to 115th Congress bill text]<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/1560/ Link to 114th Congress bill text]<br />
<br />
[[Category: McCarthy]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=115-HR1645_Fostering_Innovation_Act&diff=17906115-HR1645 Fostering Innovation Act2017-04-18T19:09:34Z<p>Suchen-teh: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=115-HR1645 Fostering Innovation Act<br />
|Proposed in=115<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Sinema, Kyrsten (D-AZ-9)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House - Financial Services, Senate - Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs<br />
|Has bill status=Proposed<br />
|Has keywords=McCarthy<br />
}}<br />
====Sec. 2====<br />
This bill amends the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 with respect to the requirement that each registered public accounting firm that prepares or issues an audit report for an issuer of securities (other than an emerging growth company) shall attest to, and report on, the internal control assessment made by the issuer's management.<br />
<br />
This requirement shall not apply with respect to any audit report prepared for an issuer that:<br />
<br />
ceased to be an emerging growth company on the last day of its fiscal year following the fifth anniversary of its first sale of common equity securities,<br />
had average annual gross revenues of less than $50 million as of its most recently completed fiscal year, and<br />
is not a large accelerated filer.<br />
This temporary exemption for low-revenue issuers shall expire upon the earliest of:<br />
<br />
the last day of the issuer's fiscal year following the tenth anniversary of its first sale of common equity securities pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act of 1933,<br />
the last day of the issuer's fiscal year during which the issuer's average annual gross revenues exceed $50 million, or<br />
the date upon which the issuer becomes a large accelerated filer.<br />
<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
115th CONGRESS<br />
1st Session<br />
H. R. 1645<br />
<br />
To amend the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 to provide a temporary exemption for low-revenue issuers from certain auditor attestation requirements.<br />
<br />
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES<br />
March 21, 2017<br />
Ms. Sinema (for herself and Mr. Hollingsworth) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Financial Services<br />
<br />
A BILL<br />
To amend the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 to provide a temporary exemption for low-revenue issuers from certain auditor attestation requirements.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.<br />
<br />
This Act may be cited as the “Fostering Innovation Act of 2017”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 2. TEMPORARY EXEMPTION FOR LOW-REVENUE ISSUERS.<br />
<br />
Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (15 U.S.C. 7262) is amended by adding at the end the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(d) Temporary Exemption For Low-Revenue Issuers.—<br />
<br />
“(1) LOW-REVENUE EXEMPTION.—Subsection (b) shall not apply with respect to an audit report prepared for an issuer that—<br />
<br />
“(A) ceased to be an emerging growth company on the last day of the fiscal year of the issuer following the fifth anniversary of the date of the first sale of common equity securities of the issuer pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act of 1933;<br />
<br />
“(B) had average annual gross revenues of less than $50,000,000 as of its most recently completed fiscal year; and<br />
<br />
“(C) is not a large accelerated filer.<br />
<br />
“(2) EXPIRATION OF TEMPORARY EXEMPTION.—An issuer ceases to be eligible for the exemption described under paragraph (1) at the earliest of—<br />
<br />
“(A) the last day of the fiscal year of the issuer following the tenth anniversary of the date of the first sale of common equity securities of the issuer pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act of 1933;<br />
<br />
“(B) the last day of the fiscal year of the issuer during which the average annual gross revenues of the issuer exceed $50,000,000; or<br />
<br />
“(C) the date on which the issuer becomes a large accelerated filer.<br />
<br />
“(3) DEFINITIONS.—For purposes of this subsection:<br />
<br />
“(A) AVERAGE ANNUAL GROSS REVENUES.—The term ‘average annual gross revenues’ means the total gross revenues of an issuer over its most recently completed three fiscal years divided by three.<br />
<br />
“(B) EMERGING GROWTH COMPANY.—The term ‘emerging growth company’ has the meaning given such term under section 3 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (15 U.S.C. 78c).<br />
<br />
“(C) LARGE ACCELERATED FILER.—The term ‘large accelerated filer’ has the meaning given that term under section 240.12b–2 of title 17, Code of Federal Regulations, or any successor thereto.”.<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/1645 Link to 115th Congress bill page]<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/4139/ Link to 114th Congress bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: McCarthy]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=115-HR240_Leveraging_Emerging_Technologies_Act&diff=17905115-HR240 Leveraging Emerging Technologies Act2017-04-18T19:09:05Z<p>Suchen-teh: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=115-HR240 Leveraging Emerging Technologies Act<br />
|Proposed in=115<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Ratcliffe, John (R-TX-4)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House - Homeland Security, Senate - Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs<br />
|Has bill status=Proposed<br />
|Has keywords=McCarthy<br />
}}<br />
====Sec. 2====<br />
This bill requires the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to: (1) engage with innovative and emerging technology developers and firms, including technology-based small businesses and startup ventures, to address homeland security needs; and (2) develop, submit to Congress, and implement a DHS-wide strategy to proactively engage with such developers and firms that focuses on sustainable methods and guidance to build relationships to establish, develop, and enhance DHS capabilities to address such needs.<br />
<br />
DHS may establish personnel and office space in areas in the United States with high concentrations of such developers and firms, co-located with other assets of DHS or other federal facilities, where possible.<br />
<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
115th CONGRESS<br />
1st Session<br />
H. R. 240<br />
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES<br />
January 11, 2017<br />
Received; read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs<br />
<br />
AN ACT<br />
To encourage engagement between the Department of Homeland Security and technology innovators, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.<br />
<br />
This Act may be cited as the “Leveraging Emerging Technologies Act of 2017”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 2. INNOVATION ENGAGEMENT.<br />
<br />
(a) Innovation Engagement.—<br />
<br />
(1) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary of Homeland Security—<br />
<br />
(A) shall engage with innovative and emerging technology developers and firms, including technology-based small businesses and startup ventures, to address homeland security needs; and<br />
<br />
(B) may identify geographic areas in the United States with high concentrations of such innovative and emerging technology developers and firms, and may establish personnel and office space in such areas, as appropriate.<br />
<br />
(2) ENGAGEMENT.—Engagement under paragraph (1) may include innovative and emerging technology developers or firms with proven technologies, supported with outside investment, with potential applications for the Department of Homeland Security.<br />
<br />
(3) CO-LOCATION.—If the Secretary of Homeland Security determines that it is appropriate to establish personnel and office space in a specific geographic area in the United States pursuant to paragraph (1)(B), the Secretary shall co-locate such personnel and office space with other existing assets of—<br />
<br />
(A) the Department of Homeland Security, where possible; or<br />
<br />
(B) Federal facilities, where appropriate.<br />
<br />
(4) OVERSIGHT.—Not later than 30 days after establishing personnel and office space in a specific geographic area in the United States pursuant to paragraph (1)(B), the Secretary of Homeland Security shall inform Congress about the rationale for such establishment, the anticipated costs associated with such establishment, and the specific goals for such establishment.<br />
<br />
(b) Strategic Plan.—Not later than 6 months after the date of the enactment of this section, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall develop, implement, and submit to the Committee on Homeland Security of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the Senate a Department of Homeland Security-wide strategy to proactively engage with innovative and emerging technology developers and firms, including technology-based small businesses and startup ventures, in accordance with subsection (a). Such strategy shall—<br />
<br />
(1) focus on sustainable methods and guidance to build relationships, including with such innovative and emerging technology developers and firms in geographic areas in the United States with high concentrations of such innovative and emerging technology developers and firms, and in geographic areas outside such areas, to establish, develop, and enhance departmental capabilities to address homeland security needs;<br />
<br />
(2) include efforts to—<br />
<br />
(A) ensure proven innovative and emerging technologies can be included in existing and future acquisition contracts;<br />
<br />
(B) coordinate with organizations that provide venture capital to businesses, particularly small businesses and startup ventures, as appropriate, to assist the commercialization of innovative and emerging technologies that are expected to be ready for commercialization in the near term and within 36 months; and<br />
<br />
(C) address barriers to the utilization of innovative and emerging technologies and the engagement of small businesses and startup ventures in the acquisition process;<br />
<br />
(3) include a description of how the Department plans to leverage proven innovative and emerging technologies to address homeland security needs; and<br />
<br />
(4) include the criteria the Secretary plans to use to determine an innovation or technology is proven.<br />
<br />
(c) No Additional Funds Authorized.—No additional funds are authorized to carry out the requirements of this Act. Such requirements shall be carried out using amounts otherwise authorized.<br />
<br />
Passed the House of Representatives January 10, 2017.<br />
<br />
Attest: karen l. haas, <br />
Clerk<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/240/ Link to 115th Congress bill page]<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/5389/ Link to 114th Congress bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: McCarthy]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=115-HR240_Leveraging_Emerging_Technologies_Act&diff=17904115-HR240 Leveraging Emerging Technologies Act2017-04-18T19:08:52Z<p>Suchen-teh: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=115-HR240 Leveraging Emerging Technologies Act<br />
|Proposed in=115<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Ratcliffe, John (R-TX-4)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House - Homeland Security, Senate - Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs<br />
|Has bill status=Proposed<br />
|Has keywords=McCarthy<br />
}}<br />
====Sec. 2====<br />
This bill requires the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to: (1) engage with innovative and emerging technology developers and firms, including technology-based small businesses and startup ventures, to address homeland security needs; and (2) develop, submit to Congress, and implement a DHS-wide strategy to proactively engage with such developers and firms that focuses on sustainable methods and guidance to build relationships to establish, develop, and enhance DHS capabilities to address such needs.<br />
<br />
DHS may establish personnel and office space in areas in the United States with high concentrations of such developers and firms, co-located with other assets of DHS or other federal facilities, where possible.<br />
<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
115th CONGRESS<br />
1st Session<br />
H. R. 240<br />
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES<br />
January 11, 2017<br />
Received; read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs<br />
<br />
AN ACT<br />
To encourage engagement between the Department of Homeland Security and technology innovators, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.<br />
<br />
This Act may be cited as the “Leveraging Emerging Technologies Act of 2017”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 2. INNOVATION ENGAGEMENT.<br />
<br />
(a) Innovation Engagement.—<br />
<br />
(1) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary of Homeland Security—<br />
<br />
(A) shall engage with innovative and emerging technology developers and firms, including technology-based small businesses and startup ventures, to address homeland security needs; and<br />
<br />
(B) may identify geographic areas in the United States with high concentrations of such innovative and emerging technology developers and firms, and may establish personnel and office space in such areas, as appropriate.<br />
<br />
(2) ENGAGEMENT.—Engagement under paragraph (1) may include innovative and emerging technology developers or firms with proven technologies, supported with outside investment, with potential applications for the Department of Homeland Security.<br />
<br />
(3) CO-LOCATION.—If the Secretary of Homeland Security determines that it is appropriate to establish personnel and office space in a specific geographic area in the United States pursuant to paragraph (1)(B), the Secretary shall co-locate such personnel and office space with other existing assets of—<br />
<br />
(A) the Department of Homeland Security, where possible; or<br />
<br />
(B) Federal facilities, where appropriate.<br />
<br />
(4) OVERSIGHT.—Not later than 30 days after establishing personnel and office space in a specific geographic area in the United States pursuant to paragraph (1)(B), the Secretary of Homeland Security shall inform Congress about the rationale for such establishment, the anticipated costs associated with such establishment, and the specific goals for such establishment.<br />
<br />
(b) Strategic Plan.—Not later than 6 months after the date of the enactment of this section, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall develop, implement, and submit to the Committee on Homeland Security of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the Senate a Department of Homeland Security-wide strategy to proactively engage with innovative and emerging technology developers and firms, including technology-based small businesses and startup ventures, in accordance with subsection (a). Such strategy shall—<br />
<br />
(1) focus on sustainable methods and guidance to build relationships, including with such innovative and emerging technology developers and firms in geographic areas in the United States with high concentrations of such innovative and emerging technology developers and firms, and in geographic areas outside such areas, to establish, develop, and enhance departmental capabilities to address homeland security needs;<br />
<br />
(2) include efforts to—<br />
<br />
(A) ensure proven innovative and emerging technologies can be included in existing and future acquisition contracts;<br />
<br />
(B) coordinate with organizations that provide venture capital to businesses, particularly small businesses and startup ventures, as appropriate, to assist the commercialization of innovative and emerging technologies that are expected to be ready for commercialization in the near term and within 36 months; and<br />
<br />
(C) address barriers to the utilization of innovative and emerging technologies and the engagement of small businesses and startup ventures in the acquisition process;<br />
<br />
(3) include a description of how the Department plans to leverage proven innovative and emerging technologies to address homeland security needs; and<br />
<br />
(4) include the criteria the Secretary plans to use to determine an innovation or technology is proven.<br />
<br />
(c) No Additional Funds Authorized.—No additional funds are authorized to carry out the requirements of this Act. Such requirements shall be carried out using amounts otherwise authorized.<br />
<br />
Passed the House of Representatives January 10, 2017.<br />
<br />
Attest: karen l. haas, <br />
Clerk<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/240/ Link to bill page]<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/5389/actions Link to 114th Congress bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: McCarthy]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=115-HR387_Email_Privacy_Act&diff=17903115-HR387 Email Privacy Act2017-04-18T19:08:23Z<p>Suchen-teh: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=115-HR387 Email Privacy Act<br />
|Proposed in=115, 114<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Yoder, Kevin (R-KS-3)<br />
|Reviewing committee=Senate - Judiciary, House - Judiciary<br />
|Has bill status=Proposed<br />
|Has keywords=McCarthy<br />
}}<br />
Amends the Electronic Communications Privacy Act of 1986 to prohibit a provider of remote computing service or electronic communication service to the public from knowingly divulging to a governmental entity the contents of any communication that is in electronic storage or otherwise maintained by the provider, subject to exceptions.<br />
<br />
Revises provisions under which the government may require a provider to disclose the contents of such communications. Eliminates the different requirements applicable under current law depending on whether such communications were: (1) stored for fewer than, or more than, 180 days by an electronic communication service; or (2) held by an electronic communication service as opposed to a remote computing service.<br />
<br />
Requires the government to obtain a warrant from a court before requiring providers to disclose the content of such communications regardless of how long the communication has been held in electronic storage by an electronic communication service or whether the information is sought from an electronic communication service or a remote computing service<br />
<br />
Requires a law enforcement agency, within 10 days after receiving the contents of a customer's communication, or a governmental entity, within 3 days, to provide a customer whose communications were disclosed by the provider a copy of the warrant and a notice that such information was requested by, and supplied to, the government entity. Allows the government to request delays of such notifications.<br />
<br />
Prohibits disclosure requirements that apply to providers from being construed to limit the government's authority to use an administrative or civil discovery subpoena to require: (1) an originator or recipient of an electronic communication to disclose the contents of such communication, or (2) an entity that provides electronic communication services to its employees or agents to disclose the contents of an electronic communication to or from such employee or agent if the communication is on an electronic communications system owned or operated by the entity.<br />
<br />
Allows the government to apply for an order directing a provider, for a specified period, to refrain from notifying any other person that the provider has been required to disclose communications or records.<br />
<br />
Directs the Comptroller General to report to Congress regarding disclosures of customer communications and records under provisions: (1) as in effect before the enactment of this Act, and (2) as amended by this Act.<br />
<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
115th CONGRESS<br />
1st Session<br />
H. R. 387<br />
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES<br />
February 7 (legislative day, February 6), 2017<br />
Received; read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary<br />
<br />
AN ACT<br />
To amend title 18, United States Code, to update the privacy protections for electronic communications information that is stored by third-party service providers in order to protect consumer privacy interests while meeting law enforcement needs, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.<br />
<br />
This Act may be cited as the “Email Privacy Act”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 2. VOLUNTARY DISCLOSURE CORRECTIONS.<br />
<br />
(a) In General.—Section 2702 of title 18, United States Code, is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) in subsection (a)—<br />
<br />
(A) in paragraph (1)—<br />
<br />
(i) by striking “divulge” and inserting “disclose”; and<br />
<br />
(ii) by striking “while in electronic storage by that service” and inserting “that is in electronic storage with or otherwise stored, held, or maintained by that service”;<br />
<br />
(B) in paragraph (2)—<br />
<br />
(i) by striking “to the public”;<br />
<br />
(ii) by striking “divulge” and inserting “disclose”; and<br />
<br />
(iii) by striking “which is carried or maintained on that service” and inserting “that is stored, held, or maintained by that service”; and<br />
<br />
(C) in paragraph (3)—<br />
<br />
(i) by striking “divulge” and inserting “disclose”; and<br />
<br />
(ii) by striking “a provider of” and inserting “a person or entity providing”;<br />
<br />
(2) in subsection (b)—<br />
<br />
(A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by inserting “wire or electronic” before “communication”;<br />
<br />
(B) by amending paragraph (1) to read as follows:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(1) to an originator, addressee, or intended recipient of such communication, to the subscriber or customer on whose behalf the provider stores, holds, or maintains such communication, or to an agent of such addressee, intended recipient, subscriber, or customer;”; and<br />
<br />
(C) by amending paragraph (3) to read as follows:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(3) with the lawful consent of the originator, addressee, or intended recipient of such communication, or of the subscriber or customer on whose behalf the provider stores, holds, or maintains such communication;”;<br />
<br />
(3) in subsection (c) by inserting “wire or electronic” before “communications”;<br />
<br />
(4) in each of subsections (b) and (c), by striking “divulge” and inserting “disclose”; and<br />
<br />
(5) in subsection (c), by amending paragraph (2) to read as follows:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(2) with the lawful consent of the subscriber or customer;”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 3. AMENDMENTS TO REQUIRED DISCLOSURE SECTION.<br />
<br />
Section 2703 of title 18, United States Code, is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) by striking subsections (a) through (c) and inserting the following:<br />
<br />
“(a) Contents Of Wire Or Electronic Communications In Electronic Storage.—Except as provided in subsections (i) and (j), a governmental entity may require the disclosure by a provider of electronic communication service of the contents of a wire or electronic communication that is in electronic storage with or otherwise stored, held, or maintained by that service only if the governmental entity obtains a warrant issued using the procedures described in the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure (or, in the case of a State court, issued using State warrant procedures) that—<br />
<br />
“(1) is issued by a court of competent jurisdiction; and<br />
<br />
“(2) may indicate the date by which the provider must make the disclosure to the governmental entity.<br />
<br />
In the absence of a date on the warrant indicating the date by which the provider must make disclosure to the governmental entity, the provider shall promptly respond to the warrant.<br />
“(b) Contents Of Wire Or Electronic Communications In A Remote Computing Service.—<br />
<br />
“(1) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided in subsections (i) and (j), a governmental entity may require the disclosure by a provider of remote computing service of the contents of a wire or electronic communication that is stored, held, or maintained by that service only if the governmental entity obtains a warrant issued using the procedures described in the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure (or, in the case of a State court, issued using State warrant procedures) that—<br />
<br />
“(A) is issued by a court of competent jurisdiction; and<br />
<br />
“(B) may indicate the date by which the provider must make the disclosure to the governmental entity.<br />
<br />
In the absence of a date on the warrant indicating the date by which the provider must make disclosure to the governmental entity, the provider shall promptly respond to the warrant.<br />
<br />
“(2) APPLICABILITY.—Paragraph (1) is applicable with respect to any wire or electronic communication that is stored, held, or maintained by the provider—<br />
<br />
“(A) on behalf of, and received by means of electronic transmission from (or created by means of computer processing of communication received by means of electronic transmission from), a subscriber or customer of such remote computing service; and<br />
<br />
“(B) solely for the purpose of providing storage or computer processing services to such subscriber or customer, if the provider is not authorized to access the contents of any such communications for purposes of providing any services other than storage or computer processing.<br />
<br />
“(c) Records Concerning Electronic Communication Service Or Remote Computing Service.—<br />
<br />
“(1) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided in subsections (i) and (j), a governmental entity may require the disclosure by a provider of electronic communication service or remote computing service of a record or other information pertaining to a subscriber to or customer of such service (not including the contents of wire or electronic communications), only—<br />
<br />
“(A) if a governmental entity obtains a warrant issued using the procedures described in the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure (or, in the case of a State court, issued using State warrant procedures) that—<br />
<br />
“(i) is issued by a court of competent jurisdiction directing the disclosure; and<br />
<br />
“(ii) may indicate the date by which the provider must make the disclosure to the governmental entity;<br />
<br />
“(B) if a governmental entity obtains a court order directing the disclosure under subsection (d);<br />
<br />
“(C) with the lawful consent of the subscriber or customer; or<br />
<br />
“(D) as otherwise authorized in paragraph (2).<br />
<br />
“(2) SUBSCRIBER OR CUSTOMER INFORMATION.—A provider of electronic communication service or remote computing service shall, in response to an administrative subpoena authorized by Federal or State statute, a grand jury, trial, or civil discovery subpoena, or any means available under paragraph (1), disclose to a governmental entity the—<br />
<br />
“(A) name;<br />
<br />
“(B) address;<br />
<br />
“(C) local and long distance telephone connection records, or records of session times and durations;<br />
<br />
“(D) length of service (including start date) and types of service used;<br />
<br />
“(E) telephone or instrument number or other subscriber or customer number or identity, including any temporarily assigned network address; and<br />
<br />
“(F) means and source of payment for such service (including any credit card or bank account number),<br />
<br />
of a subscriber or customer of such service.<br />
<br />
“(3) NOTICE NOT REQUIRED.—A governmental entity that receives records or information under this subsection is not required to provide notice to a subscriber or customer.”;<br />
<br />
(2) in subsection (d)—<br />
<br />
(A) by striking “(b) or”;<br />
<br />
(B) by striking “the contents of a wire or electronic communication, or”;<br />
<br />
(C) by striking “sought,” and inserting “sought”; and<br />
<br />
(D) by striking “section” and inserting “subsection”; and<br />
<br />
(3) by adding at the end the following:<br />
<br />
“(h) Notice.—Except as provided in section 2705, a provider of electronic communication service or remote computing service may notify a subscriber or customer of a receipt of a warrant, court order, subpoena, or request under subsection (a), (b), (c), or (d) of this section.<br />
<br />
“(i) Rule Of Construction Related To Legal Process.—Nothing in this section or in section 2702 shall limit the authority of a governmental entity to use an administrative subpoena authorized by Federal or State statute, a grand jury, trial, or civil discovery subpoena, or a warrant issued using the procedures described in the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure (or, in the case of a State court, issued using State warrant procedures) by a court of competent jurisdiction to—<br />
<br />
“(1) require an originator, addressee, or intended recipient of a wire or electronic communication to disclose a wire or electronic communication (including the contents of that communication) to the governmental entity;<br />
<br />
“(2) require a person or entity that provides an electronic communication service to the officers, directors, employees, or agents of the person or entity (for the purpose of carrying out their duties) to disclose a wire or electronic communication (including the contents of that communication) to or from the person or entity itself or to or from an officer, director, employee, or agent of the entity to a governmental entity, if the wire or electronic communication is stored, held, or maintained on an electronic communications system owned, operated, or controlled by the person or entity; or<br />
<br />
“(3) require a person or entity that provides a remote computing service or electronic communication service to disclose a wire or electronic communication (including the contents of that communication) that advertises or promotes a product or service and that has been made readily accessible to the general public.<br />
<br />
“(j) Rule Of Construction Related To Congressional Subpoenas.—Nothing in this section or in section 2702 shall limit the power of inquiry vested in the Congress by article I of the Constitution of the United States, including the authority to compel the production of a wire or electronic communication (including the contents of a wire or electronic communication) that is stored, held, or maintained by a person or entity that provides remote computing service or electronic communication service.”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 4. DELAYED NOTICE.<br />
<br />
Section 2705 of title 18, United States Code, is amended to read as follows:<br />
<br />
Ҥ 2705. Delayed notice<br />
<br />
“(a) In General.—A governmental entity acting under section 2703 may apply to a court for an order directing a provider of electronic communication service or remote computing service to which a warrant, order, subpoena, or other directive under section 2703 is directed not to notify any other person of the existence of the warrant, order, subpoena, or other directive.<br />
<br />
“(b) Determination.—A court shall grant a request for an order made under subsection (a) for delayed notification of up to 180 days if the court determines that there is reason to believe that notification of the existence of the warrant, order, subpoena, or other directive will likely result in—<br />
<br />
“(1) endangering the life or physical safety of an individual;<br />
<br />
“(2) flight from prosecution;<br />
<br />
“(3) destruction of or tampering with evidence;<br />
<br />
“(4) intimidation of potential witnesses; or<br />
<br />
“(5) otherwise seriously jeopardizing an investigation or unduly delaying a trial.<br />
<br />
“(c) Extension.—Upon request by a governmental entity, a court may grant one or more extensions, for periods of up to 180 days each, of an order granted in accordance with subsection (b).”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 5. RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.<br />
<br />
Nothing in this Act or an amendment made by this Act shall be construed to preclude the acquisition by the United States Government of—<br />
<br />
(1) the contents of a wire or electronic communication pursuant to other lawful authorities, including the authorities under chapter 119 of title 18 (commonly known as the “Wiretap Act”), the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (50 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.), or any other provision of Federal law not specifically amended by this Act; or<br />
<br />
(2) records or other information relating to a subscriber or customer of any electronic communication service or remote computing service (not including the content of such communications) pursuant to the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (50 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.), chapter 119 of title 18 (commonly known as the “Wiretap Act”), or any other provision of Federal law not specifically amended by this Act.<br />
<br />
Passed the House of Representatives February 6, 2017.<br />
<br />
Attest: karen l. haas, <br />
Clerk<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/387/ Link to 115th Congress bill text]<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/699/ Link to 114th Congress bill text]<br />
<br />
[[Category: McCarthy]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=115-S278_Support_for_Rapid_Innovation_Act&diff=17902115-S278 Support for Rapid Innovation Act2017-04-18T19:05:17Z<p>Suchen-teh: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=115-S278 Support for Rapid Innovation Act<br />
|Proposed in=115<br />
|Sponsored by=Sen. Daines, Steve (R-MT)<br />
|Reviewing committee=Senate - Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs<br />
|Has bill status=Proposed<br />
|Has keywords=McCarthy<br />
}}<br />
This bill amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to direct the Under Secretary for Science and Technology of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to support the research, development, testing, evaluation, and transition of cybersecurity technologies.<br />
<br />
Such research and development shall:<br />
*advance the development and accelerate the deployment of more secure information systems;<br />
*improve and create technologies for detecting and preventing attacks or intrusions;<br />
*improve and create mitigation and recovery methodologies and development of resilient networks and information systems;<br />
*support the review of source code that underpins critical infrastructure information systems; and<br />
*assist the development, support, or deployment of technologies for industrial control systems, cyber forensics, attack attribution capabilities, full information lifecycle security technologies, information security measures and perimeter-based protections, detection of improper information access by authorized users, cryptography, assurance that software is free from vulnerabilities and functioning as intended, automatic updates of software and firmware, and identification of unidentified or future threats.<br />
<br />
The Under Secretary shall:<br />
*support projects carried out under this bill through their full life cycle;<br />
*identify mature technologies that address existing or imminent cybersecurity gaps in public or private information systems and networks, protect sensitive information within and outside networks, identify and support necessary improvements, and introduce new cybersecurity technologies throughout the homeland security enterprise through partnerships and commercialization; and<br />
*target federally funded cybersecurity research that demonstrates a high probability of successful transition to the commercial market within two years and that is expected to have a notable impact on information systems and networks.<br />
<br />
The bill: (1) extends the authority of the DHS to carry out a research and development projects pilot program until September 30, 2021; (2) requires a DHS component to obtain the DHS Secretary's approval before utilizing authority for such a project by providing a proposal that includes the rationale, funds to be spent, and expected outcome for the project; and (3) requires DHS's annual report on such program to include the extent of cost-sharing for projects among federal and nonfederal sources and the extent to which utilization of project authority has addressed a homeland security capability gap or threat to the homeland.<br />
<br />
DHS must develop training for acquisitions staff on the utilization of DHS's authority to enter into transactions (other than contracts, cooperative agreements, and grants) for research and development projects to ensure accountability and effective management of projects consistent with the Program Management Improvement Accountability Act.<br />
<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
115th CONGRESS<br />
1st Session<br />
S. 278<br />
<br />
To amend the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to provide for innovative research and development, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES<br />
February 2, 2017<br />
Mr. Daines (for himself and Mr. Warner) introduced the following bill; which was read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs<br />
<br />
A BILL<br />
To amend the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to provide for innovative research and development, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.<br />
<br />
This Act may be cited as the “Support for Rapid Innovation Act of 2017”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 2. CYBERSECURITY RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS.<br />
<br />
(a) Cybersecurity Research And Development.—<br />
<br />
(1) IN GENERAL.—Title III of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 181 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following new section:<br />
<br />
“SEC. 321. CYBERSECURITY RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT.<br />
<br />
“(a) In General.—The Under Secretary for Science and Technology shall support the research, development, testing, evaluation, and transition of cybersecurity technologies, including fundamental research to improve the sharing of information, information security, analytics, and methodologies related to cybersecurity risks and incidents, consistent with current law.<br />
<br />
“(b) ActIvities.—The research and development supported under subsection (a) shall serve the components of the Department and shall—<br />
<br />
“(1) advance the development and accelerate the deployment of more secure information systems;<br />
<br />
“(2) improve and create technologies for detecting and preventing attacks or intrusions, including real-time continuous diagnostics, real-time analytic technologies, and full lifecycle information protection;<br />
<br />
“(3) improve and create mitigation and recovery methodologies, including techniques and policies for real-time containment of attacks, and development of resilient networks and information systems;<br />
<br />
“(4) support, in coordination with non-Federal entities, the review of source code that underpins critical infrastructure information systems;<br />
<br />
“(5) assist the development and support infrastructure and tools to support cybersecurity research and development efforts, including modeling, testbeds, and data sets for assessment of new cybersecurity technologies;<br />
<br />
“(6) assist the development and support of technologies to reduce vulnerabilities in industrial control systems;<br />
<br />
“(7) assist the development and support cyber forensics and attack attribution capabilities;<br />
<br />
“(8) assist the development and accelerate the deployment of full information lifecycle security technologies to enhance protection, control, and privacy of information to detect and prevent cybersecurity risks and incidents;<br />
<br />
“(9) assist the development and accelerate the deployment of information security measures, in addition to perimeter-based protections;<br />
<br />
“(10) assist the development and accelerate the deployment of technologies to detect improper information access by authorized users;<br />
<br />
“(11) assist the development and accelerate the deployment of cryptographic technologies to protect information at rest, in transit, and in use;<br />
<br />
“(12) assist the development and accelerate the deployment of methods to promote greater software assurance;<br />
<br />
“(13) assist the development and accelerate the deployment of tools to securely and automatically update software and firmware in use, with limited or no necessary intervention by users and limited impact on concurrently operating systems and processes; and<br />
<br />
“(14) assist in identifying and addressing unidentified or future cybersecurity threats.<br />
<br />
“(c) Coordination.—In carrying out this section, the Under Secretary for Science and Technology shall coordinate activities with—<br />
<br />
“(1) the Under Secretary appointed pursuant to section 103(a)(1)(H);<br />
<br />
“(2) the heads of other relevant Federal departments and agencies, as appropriate; and<br />
<br />
“(3) industry and academia.<br />
<br />
“(d) Transition To Practice.—The Under Secretary for Science and Technology shall support projects carried out under this title through the full life cycle of such projects, including research, development, testing, evaluation, pilots, and transitions. The Under Secretary shall identify mature technologies that address existing or imminent cybersecurity gaps in public or private information systems and networks of information systems, protect sensitive information within and outside networks of information systems, identify and support necessary improvements identified during pilot programs and testing and evaluation activities, and introduce new cybersecurity technologies throughout the homeland security enterprise through partnerships and commercialization. The Under Secretary shall target federally funded cybersecurity research that demonstrates a high probability of successful transition to the commercial market within two years and that is expected to have a notable impact on the public or private information systems and networks of information systems.<br />
<br />
“(e) Definitions.—In this section:<br />
<br />
“(1) CYBERSECURITY RISK.—The term ‘cybersecurity risk’ has the meaning given such term in section 227.<br />
<br />
“(2) HOMELAND SECURITY ENTERPRISE.—The term ‘homeland security enterprise’ means relevant governmental and nongovernmental entities involved in homeland security, including Federal, State, local, and tribal government officials, private sector representatives, academics, and other policy experts.<br />
<br />
“(3) INCIDENT.—The term ‘incident’ has the meaning given such term in section 227.<br />
<br />
“(4) INFORMATION SYSTEM.—The term ‘information system’ has the meaning given such term in section 3502(8) of title 44, United States Code.<br />
<br />
“(5) SOFTWARE ASSURANCE.—The term ‘software assurance’ means confidence that software—<br />
<br />
“(A) is free from vulnerabilities, either intentionally designed into the software or accidentally inserted at any time during the life cycle of the software; and<br />
<br />
“(B) functioning in the intended manner.”.<br />
<br />
(2) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of contents in section 1(b) of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 is amended by inserting after the item relating to the second section 319 the following new item:<br />
<br />
<br />
“Sec. 321. Cybersecurity research and development.”.<br />
(b) Research And Development Projects.—Section 831 of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 391) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) in subsection (a)—<br />
<br />
(A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking “2016” and inserting “2021”;<br />
<br />
(B) in paragraph (1), by striking the last sentence; and<br />
<br />
(C) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(3) PRIOR APPROVAL.—In any case in which the head of a component or office of the Department seeks to utilize the authority under this section, such head shall first receive prior approval from the Secretary by providing to the Secretary a proposal that includes the rationale for the utilization of such authority, the funds to be spent on the use of such authority, and the expected outcome for each project that is the subject of the use of such authority. In such a case, the authority for evaluating the proposal may not be delegated by the Secretary to anyone other than the Under Secretary for Management.”;<br />
<br />
(2) in subsection (c)—<br />
<br />
(A) in paragraph (1), in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking “2016” and inserting “2021”; and<br />
<br />
(B) by amending paragraph (2) to read as follows:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(2) REPORT.—The Secretary shall annually submit to the Committee on Homeland Security and the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the Senate a report detailing the projects for which the authority granted by subsection (a) was utilized, the rationale for such utilizations, the funds spent utilizing such authority, the extent of cost-sharing for such projects among Federal and non-Federal sources, the extent to which utilization of such authority has addressed a homeland security capability gap or threat to the homeland identified by the Department, the total amount of payments, if any, that were received by the Federal Government as a result of the utilization of such authority during the period covered by each such report, the outcome of each project for which such authority was utilized, and the results of any audits of such projects.”; and<br />
<br />
(3) by adding at the end the following new subsection:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(e) Training.—The Secretary shall develop a training program for acquisitions staff on the utilization of the authority provided under subsection (a) to ensure accountability and effective management of projects consistent with the Program Management Improvement Accountability Act (Public Law 114–264) and the amendments made by such Act.”.<br />
<br />
(c) No Additional Funds Authorized.—No additional funds are authorized to carry out the requirements of this Act and the amendments made by this Act. Such requirements shall be carried out using amounts otherwise authorized.<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/278/ Link to 115th Congress bill page]<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/5388/ Link to 114th Congress bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: McCarthy]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=115-HR1219_Supporting_America%27s_Innovators_Act&diff=17901115-HR1219 Supporting America's Innovators Act2017-04-18T19:04:14Z<p>Suchen-teh: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=115-HR1219 Supporting America's Innovators Act<br />
|Proposed in=115<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. McHenry, Patrick T. (R-NC-10)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House - Financial Services<br />
|Has bill status=Proposed<br />
|Has keywords=McCarthy<br />
}}<br />
This bill amends the Investment Company Act of 1940 to exempt from its coverage any issuer whose outstanding securities with respect to a qualifying venture capital fund (other than short-term paper) are beneficially owned by not more than 250 persons.<br />
<br />
The bill defines "qualifying venture capital fund" as one with no more than $10 million (annually adjusted for inflation) in invested capital.<br />
<br />
The bill was previously introduced in the 114th Congress in 2016 where it passed the House. The previous and current bill differ mainly in clause (2)(C) in their clarifications of the term "qualifying venture capital fund" and "venture capital fund". <br />
<br />
==2017 Bill Text==<br />
115th CONGRESS<br />
1st Session<br />
H. R. 1219<br />
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES<br />
April 6 (legislative day, April 4), 2017<br />
Received; read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs<br />
<br />
AN ACT<br />
To amend the Investment Company Act of 1940 to expand the investor limitation for qualifying venture capital funds under an exemption from the definition of an investment company.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.<br />
<br />
This Act may be cited as the “Supporting America’s Innovators Act of 2017”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 2. INVESTOR LIMITATION FOR QUALIFYING VENTURE CAPITAL FUNDS.<br />
<br />
Section 3(c)(1) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (15 U.S.C. 80a–3(c)(1)) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by inserting “(or, in the case of a qualifying venture capital fund, 250 persons)” after “one hundred persons”; and<br />
<br />
(2) by adding at the end the following:<br />
<br />
“(C)(i) The term ‘qualifying venture capital fund’ means a venture capital fund that has not more than $10,000,000 in aggregate capital contributions and uncalled committed capital, with such dollar amount to be indexed for inflation once every 5 years by the Commission, beginning from a measurement made by the Commission on a date selected by the Commission, rounded to the nearest $1,000,000.<br />
<br />
“(ii) The term ‘venture capital fund’ has the meaning given the term in section 275.203(l)–1 of title 17, Code of Federal Regulations, or any successor regulation.”.<br />
<br />
Passed the House of Representatives April 6, 2017.<br />
<br />
Attest: karen l. haas, <br />
Clerk<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/1219/ Link to 115th Congress bill page]<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/4854 Link to 114th Congress bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: Legislation]] [[Category: McCarthy]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=115-HR240_Leveraging_Emerging_Technologies_Act&diff=17900115-HR240 Leveraging Emerging Technologies Act2017-04-18T18:57:30Z<p>Suchen-teh: Created page with "{{Legislation |Has title=115-HR240 Leveraging Emerging Technologies Act |Proposed in=115 |Sponsored by=Rep. Ratcliffe, John (R-TX-4) |Reviewing committee=House - Homeland Secu..."</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=115-HR240 Leveraging Emerging Technologies Act<br />
|Proposed in=115<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Ratcliffe, John (R-TX-4)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House - Homeland Security, Senate - Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs<br />
|Has bill status=Proposed<br />
|Has keywords=McCarthy<br />
}}<br />
====Sec. 2====<br />
This bill requires the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to: (1) engage with innovative and emerging technology developers and firms, including technology-based small businesses and startup ventures, to address homeland security needs; and (2) develop, submit to Congress, and implement a DHS-wide strategy to proactively engage with such developers and firms that focuses on sustainable methods and guidance to build relationships to establish, develop, and enhance DHS capabilities to address such needs.<br />
<br />
DHS may establish personnel and office space in areas in the United States with high concentrations of such developers and firms, co-located with other assets of DHS or other federal facilities, where possible.<br />
<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
115th CONGRESS<br />
1st Session<br />
H. R. 240<br />
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES<br />
January 11, 2017<br />
Received; read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs<br />
<br />
AN ACT<br />
To encourage engagement between the Department of Homeland Security and technology innovators, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.<br />
<br />
This Act may be cited as the “Leveraging Emerging Technologies Act of 2017”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 2. INNOVATION ENGAGEMENT.<br />
<br />
(a) Innovation Engagement.—<br />
<br />
(1) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary of Homeland Security—<br />
<br />
(A) shall engage with innovative and emerging technology developers and firms, including technology-based small businesses and startup ventures, to address homeland security needs; and<br />
<br />
(B) may identify geographic areas in the United States with high concentrations of such innovative and emerging technology developers and firms, and may establish personnel and office space in such areas, as appropriate.<br />
<br />
(2) ENGAGEMENT.—Engagement under paragraph (1) may include innovative and emerging technology developers or firms with proven technologies, supported with outside investment, with potential applications for the Department of Homeland Security.<br />
<br />
(3) CO-LOCATION.—If the Secretary of Homeland Security determines that it is appropriate to establish personnel and office space in a specific geographic area in the United States pursuant to paragraph (1)(B), the Secretary shall co-locate such personnel and office space with other existing assets of—<br />
<br />
(A) the Department of Homeland Security, where possible; or<br />
<br />
(B) Federal facilities, where appropriate.<br />
<br />
(4) OVERSIGHT.—Not later than 30 days after establishing personnel and office space in a specific geographic area in the United States pursuant to paragraph (1)(B), the Secretary of Homeland Security shall inform Congress about the rationale for such establishment, the anticipated costs associated with such establishment, and the specific goals for such establishment.<br />
<br />
(b) Strategic Plan.—Not later than 6 months after the date of the enactment of this section, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall develop, implement, and submit to the Committee on Homeland Security of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the Senate a Department of Homeland Security-wide strategy to proactively engage with innovative and emerging technology developers and firms, including technology-based small businesses and startup ventures, in accordance with subsection (a). Such strategy shall—<br />
<br />
(1) focus on sustainable methods and guidance to build relationships, including with such innovative and emerging technology developers and firms in geographic areas in the United States with high concentrations of such innovative and emerging technology developers and firms, and in geographic areas outside such areas, to establish, develop, and enhance departmental capabilities to address homeland security needs;<br />
<br />
(2) include efforts to—<br />
<br />
(A) ensure proven innovative and emerging technologies can be included in existing and future acquisition contracts;<br />
<br />
(B) coordinate with organizations that provide venture capital to businesses, particularly small businesses and startup ventures, as appropriate, to assist the commercialization of innovative and emerging technologies that are expected to be ready for commercialization in the near term and within 36 months; and<br />
<br />
(C) address barriers to the utilization of innovative and emerging technologies and the engagement of small businesses and startup ventures in the acquisition process;<br />
<br />
(3) include a description of how the Department plans to leverage proven innovative and emerging technologies to address homeland security needs; and<br />
<br />
(4) include the criteria the Secretary plans to use to determine an innovation or technology is proven.<br />
<br />
(c) No Additional Funds Authorized.—No additional funds are authorized to carry out the requirements of this Act. Such requirements shall be carried out using amounts otherwise authorized.<br />
<br />
Passed the House of Representatives January 10, 2017.<br />
<br />
Attest: karen l. haas, <br />
Clerk<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/240/ Link to bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: McCarthy]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=115-S278_Support_for_Rapid_Innovation_Act&diff=17899115-S278 Support for Rapid Innovation Act2017-04-18T18:37:48Z<p>Suchen-teh: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=115-S278 Support for Rapid Innovation Act<br />
|Proposed in=115<br />
|Sponsored by=Sen. Daines, Steve (R-MT)<br />
|Reviewing committee=Senate - Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs<br />
|Has bill status=Proposed<br />
|Has keywords=McCarthy<br />
}}<br />
This bill amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to direct the Under Secretary for Science and Technology of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to support the research, development, testing, evaluation, and transition of cybersecurity technologies.<br />
<br />
Such research and development shall:<br />
*advance the development and accelerate the deployment of more secure information systems;<br />
*improve and create technologies for detecting and preventing attacks or intrusions;<br />
*improve and create mitigation and recovery methodologies and development of resilient networks and information systems;<br />
*support the review of source code that underpins critical infrastructure information systems; and<br />
*assist the development, support, or deployment of technologies for industrial control systems, cyber forensics, attack attribution capabilities, full information lifecycle security technologies, information security measures and perimeter-based protections, detection of improper information access by authorized users, cryptography, assurance that software is free from vulnerabilities and functioning as intended, automatic updates of software and firmware, and identification of unidentified or future threats.<br />
<br />
The Under Secretary shall:<br />
*support projects carried out under this bill through their full life cycle;<br />
*identify mature technologies that address existing or imminent cybersecurity gaps in public or private information systems and networks, protect sensitive information within and outside networks, identify and support necessary improvements, and introduce new cybersecurity technologies throughout the homeland security enterprise through partnerships and commercialization; and<br />
*target federally funded cybersecurity research that demonstrates a high probability of successful transition to the commercial market within two years and that is expected to have a notable impact on information systems and networks.<br />
<br />
The bill: (1) extends the authority of the DHS to carry out a research and development projects pilot program until September 30, 2021; (2) requires a DHS component to obtain the DHS Secretary's approval before utilizing authority for such a project by providing a proposal that includes the rationale, funds to be spent, and expected outcome for the project; and (3) requires DHS's annual report on such program to include the extent of cost-sharing for projects among federal and nonfederal sources and the extent to which utilization of project authority has addressed a homeland security capability gap or threat to the homeland.<br />
<br />
DHS must develop training for acquisitions staff on the utilization of DHS's authority to enter into transactions (other than contracts, cooperative agreements, and grants) for research and development projects to ensure accountability and effective management of projects consistent with the Program Management Improvement Accountability Act.<br />
<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
115th CONGRESS<br />
1st Session<br />
S. 278<br />
<br />
To amend the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to provide for innovative research and development, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES<br />
February 2, 2017<br />
Mr. Daines (for himself and Mr. Warner) introduced the following bill; which was read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs<br />
<br />
A BILL<br />
To amend the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to provide for innovative research and development, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.<br />
<br />
This Act may be cited as the “Support for Rapid Innovation Act of 2017”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 2. CYBERSECURITY RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS.<br />
<br />
(a) Cybersecurity Research And Development.—<br />
<br />
(1) IN GENERAL.—Title III of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 181 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following new section:<br />
<br />
“SEC. 321. CYBERSECURITY RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT.<br />
<br />
“(a) In General.—The Under Secretary for Science and Technology shall support the research, development, testing, evaluation, and transition of cybersecurity technologies, including fundamental research to improve the sharing of information, information security, analytics, and methodologies related to cybersecurity risks and incidents, consistent with current law.<br />
<br />
“(b) ActIvities.—The research and development supported under subsection (a) shall serve the components of the Department and shall—<br />
<br />
“(1) advance the development and accelerate the deployment of more secure information systems;<br />
<br />
“(2) improve and create technologies for detecting and preventing attacks or intrusions, including real-time continuous diagnostics, real-time analytic technologies, and full lifecycle information protection;<br />
<br />
“(3) improve and create mitigation and recovery methodologies, including techniques and policies for real-time containment of attacks, and development of resilient networks and information systems;<br />
<br />
“(4) support, in coordination with non-Federal entities, the review of source code that underpins critical infrastructure information systems;<br />
<br />
“(5) assist the development and support infrastructure and tools to support cybersecurity research and development efforts, including modeling, testbeds, and data sets for assessment of new cybersecurity technologies;<br />
<br />
“(6) assist the development and support of technologies to reduce vulnerabilities in industrial control systems;<br />
<br />
“(7) assist the development and support cyber forensics and attack attribution capabilities;<br />
<br />
“(8) assist the development and accelerate the deployment of full information lifecycle security technologies to enhance protection, control, and privacy of information to detect and prevent cybersecurity risks and incidents;<br />
<br />
“(9) assist the development and accelerate the deployment of information security measures, in addition to perimeter-based protections;<br />
<br />
“(10) assist the development and accelerate the deployment of technologies to detect improper information access by authorized users;<br />
<br />
“(11) assist the development and accelerate the deployment of cryptographic technologies to protect information at rest, in transit, and in use;<br />
<br />
“(12) assist the development and accelerate the deployment of methods to promote greater software assurance;<br />
<br />
“(13) assist the development and accelerate the deployment of tools to securely and automatically update software and firmware in use, with limited or no necessary intervention by users and limited impact on concurrently operating systems and processes; and<br />
<br />
“(14) assist in identifying and addressing unidentified or future cybersecurity threats.<br />
<br />
“(c) Coordination.—In carrying out this section, the Under Secretary for Science and Technology shall coordinate activities with—<br />
<br />
“(1) the Under Secretary appointed pursuant to section 103(a)(1)(H);<br />
<br />
“(2) the heads of other relevant Federal departments and agencies, as appropriate; and<br />
<br />
“(3) industry and academia.<br />
<br />
“(d) Transition To Practice.—The Under Secretary for Science and Technology shall support projects carried out under this title through the full life cycle of such projects, including research, development, testing, evaluation, pilots, and transitions. The Under Secretary shall identify mature technologies that address existing or imminent cybersecurity gaps in public or private information systems and networks of information systems, protect sensitive information within and outside networks of information systems, identify and support necessary improvements identified during pilot programs and testing and evaluation activities, and introduce new cybersecurity technologies throughout the homeland security enterprise through partnerships and commercialization. The Under Secretary shall target federally funded cybersecurity research that demonstrates a high probability of successful transition to the commercial market within two years and that is expected to have a notable impact on the public or private information systems and networks of information systems.<br />
<br />
“(e) Definitions.—In this section:<br />
<br />
“(1) CYBERSECURITY RISK.—The term ‘cybersecurity risk’ has the meaning given such term in section 227.<br />
<br />
“(2) HOMELAND SECURITY ENTERPRISE.—The term ‘homeland security enterprise’ means relevant governmental and nongovernmental entities involved in homeland security, including Federal, State, local, and tribal government officials, private sector representatives, academics, and other policy experts.<br />
<br />
“(3) INCIDENT.—The term ‘incident’ has the meaning given such term in section 227.<br />
<br />
“(4) INFORMATION SYSTEM.—The term ‘information system’ has the meaning given such term in section 3502(8) of title 44, United States Code.<br />
<br />
“(5) SOFTWARE ASSURANCE.—The term ‘software assurance’ means confidence that software—<br />
<br />
“(A) is free from vulnerabilities, either intentionally designed into the software or accidentally inserted at any time during the life cycle of the software; and<br />
<br />
“(B) functioning in the intended manner.”.<br />
<br />
(2) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of contents in section 1(b) of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 is amended by inserting after the item relating to the second section 319 the following new item:<br />
<br />
<br />
“Sec. 321. Cybersecurity research and development.”.<br />
(b) Research And Development Projects.—Section 831 of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 391) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) in subsection (a)—<br />
<br />
(A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking “2016” and inserting “2021”;<br />
<br />
(B) in paragraph (1), by striking the last sentence; and<br />
<br />
(C) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(3) PRIOR APPROVAL.—In any case in which the head of a component or office of the Department seeks to utilize the authority under this section, such head shall first receive prior approval from the Secretary by providing to the Secretary a proposal that includes the rationale for the utilization of such authority, the funds to be spent on the use of such authority, and the expected outcome for each project that is the subject of the use of such authority. In such a case, the authority for evaluating the proposal may not be delegated by the Secretary to anyone other than the Under Secretary for Management.”;<br />
<br />
(2) in subsection (c)—<br />
<br />
(A) in paragraph (1), in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking “2016” and inserting “2021”; and<br />
<br />
(B) by amending paragraph (2) to read as follows:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(2) REPORT.—The Secretary shall annually submit to the Committee on Homeland Security and the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the Senate a report detailing the projects for which the authority granted by subsection (a) was utilized, the rationale for such utilizations, the funds spent utilizing such authority, the extent of cost-sharing for such projects among Federal and non-Federal sources, the extent to which utilization of such authority has addressed a homeland security capability gap or threat to the homeland identified by the Department, the total amount of payments, if any, that were received by the Federal Government as a result of the utilization of such authority during the period covered by each such report, the outcome of each project for which such authority was utilized, and the results of any audits of such projects.”; and<br />
<br />
(3) by adding at the end the following new subsection:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(e) Training.—The Secretary shall develop a training program for acquisitions staff on the utilization of the authority provided under subsection (a) to ensure accountability and effective management of projects consistent with the Program Management Improvement Accountability Act (Public Law 114–264) and the amendments made by such Act.”.<br />
<br />
(c) No Additional Funds Authorized.—No additional funds are authorized to carry out the requirements of this Act and the amendments made by this Act. Such requirements shall be carried out using amounts otherwise authorized.<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/278/ Link to bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: McCarthy]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=Su_Chen_Teh_(Work_Log)&diff=17898Su Chen Teh (Work Log)2017-04-18T18:34:43Z<p>Suchen-teh: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Category:Work Log]]<br />
<br />
[[Su Chen Teh]] [[Work Logs]] [[Su Chen Teh (Work Log)|(log page)]]<br />
<br />
4/18/17 - Collated lunch orders<br />
<br />
4/17/17 - Drafted tweets, worked on McCarthy's Innovation Initiative pages, distributed flyers to colleges<br />
<br />
4/14/17 - Drafted tweets, worked on McCarthy's Innovation Initiative pages, worked with Juliette on organizing small business committee pages<br />
<br />
4/13/17 - Drafted tweets, collated lunch orders<br />
<br />
4/12/17 - Drafted tweets, helped to photocopy applicants' resumes, worked on McCarthy's Innovation Initiative pages<br />
<br />
4/10/17 - Drafted Facebook posts and tweets for Carried Interest Debate article, worked on the McCarthy's Innovation Initiative pages<br />
<br />
4/7/17 - Drafted tweets, continued collecting the interns' summer plans, worked on the McCarthy's Innovation Initiative pages<br />
<br />
4/6/17 - Added drafts of job listings for McNair summer internships onto Handshake<br />
<br />
4/5/17 - Worked on the House Small Business Committee page and McCarthy's Innovation Initiative pages<br />
<br />
4/4/17 - Drafted some tweets, created the legislation class on the wiki page with Juliette, Anne and Ed <br />
<br />
4/3/17 - Created wiki pages for House Small Business Committee's bill, collected the interns' summer plans<br />
<br />
3/31/17 - Ed taught Juliette and me how to create a new class on the wiki page and how a few properties work, Juliette and I planned how to organize the legislations on the wiki page<br />
<br />
3/30/17 - Drafted a few tweets<br />
<br />
3/29/17 - Drafted a few tweets, and worked on the Foster Innovation Act and HALOS Act pages, edited the template for the McCarthy's Innovation Initiative<br />
<br />
3/27/17 - Figured out how to create a new form and template for the McCarthy's Innovation Initiative series<br />
<br />
3/24/17 - Updated my work log<br />
<br />
3/23/17 - Finished the tweets over spring break<br />
<br />
3/22/17 - Helped Anne do the envelope template for a letter, drafted more tweets<br />
<br />
3/20/17 - Drafted tweets from the backlog over spring break, edited my own wiki page and included my contact details<br />
<br />
3/9/17 - Edited the vCards, drafted tweets<br />
<br />
3/8/17 - Drafted tweets<br />
<br />
3/6/17 - Drafted facebook posts and tweets for the blog posts<br />
<br />
3/3/17 - Drafted several tweets, updated sling with people's spring break plans, help Juliette with blog linking<br />
<br />
3/2/17 - Drafted several tweets<br />
<br />
3/1/17 - Finished most of the contact files, drafted some tweets<br />
<br />
2/27/17 - Created contact files for former student employees, and Baker Institute staff members<br />
<br />
2/24/17 - Drafted some tweets, created contacts files for McNair Center student employees<br />
<br />
2/23/17 - Finished the video<br />
<br />
2/22/17 - Finished the contacts file, worked on the video of the evening with Bob McNair<br />
<br />
2/21/17 - Continued doing the contacts file<br />
<br />
2/20/17 - Created my work log, got oriented with the communications platforms at the McNair Center, was introduced to other interns working here<br />
[[Category:Work Log]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=115-S278_Support_for_Rapid_Innovation_Act&diff=17854115-S278 Support for Rapid Innovation Act2017-04-17T20:09:27Z<p>Suchen-teh: Created page with "{{Legislation |Has title=115-S278 Support for Rapid Innovation Act |Proposed in=115 |Sponsored by=Sen. Daines, Steve (R-MT) |Reviewing committee=Senate - Homeland Security and..."</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=115-S278 Support for Rapid Innovation Act<br />
|Proposed in=115<br />
|Sponsored by=Sen. Daines, Steve (R-MT)<br />
|Reviewing committee=Senate - Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs<br />
|Has bill status=Proposed<br />
|Has keywords=McCarthy<br />
}}<br />
This bill amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to direct the Under Secretary for Science and Technology of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to support the research, development, testing, evaluation, and transition of cybersecurity technologies.<br />
<br />
Such research and development shall:<br />
*advance the development and accelerate the deployment of more secure information systems;<br />
*improve and create technologies for detecting and preventing attacks or intrusions;<br />
*improve and create mitigation and recovery methodologies and development of resilient networks and information systems;<br />
*support the review of source code that underpins critical infrastructure information systems; and<br />
*assist the development, support, or deployment of technologies for industrial control systems, cyber forensics, attack attribution capabilities, full information lifecycle security technologies, information security measures and perimeter-based protections, detection of improper information access by authorized users, cryptography, assurance that software is free from vulnerabilities and functioning as intended, automatic updates of software and firmware, and identification of unidentified or future threats.<br />
<br />
The Under Secretary shall:<br />
*support projects carried out under this bill through their full life cycle;<br />
*identify mature technologies that address existing or imminent cybersecurity gaps in public or private information systems and networks, protect sensitive information within and outside networks, identify and support necessary improvements, and introduce new cybersecurity technologies throughout the homeland security enterprise through partnerships and commercialization; and<br />
*target federally funded cybersecurity research that demonstrates a high probability of successful transition to the commercial market within two years and that is expected to have a notable impact on information systems and networks.<br />
<br />
The bill: (1) extends the authority of the DHS to carry out a research and development projects pilot program until September 30, 2021; (2) requires a DHS component to obtain the DHS Secretary's approval before utilizing authority for such a project by providing a proposal that includes the rationale, funds to be spent, and expected outcome for the project; and (3) requires DHS's annual report on such program to include the extent of cost-sharing for projects among federal and nonfederal sources and the extent to which utilization of project authority has addressed a homeland security capability gap or threat to the homeland.<br />
<br />
DHS must develop training for acquisitions staff on the utilization of DHS's authority to enter into transactions (other than contracts, cooperative agreements, and grants) for research and development projects to ensure accountability and effective management of projects consistent with the Program Management Improvement Accountability Act.</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=114-HR4498_HALOS_Act&diff=17849114-HR4498 HALOS Act2017-04-17T19:58:54Z<p>Suchen-teh: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=114-HR4498 HALOS Act<br />
|Proposed in=114<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Chabot, Steve (R-OH-1)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House - Financial Services, Senate - Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs<br />
|Has bill status=Died<br />
|Has keywords=McCarthy<br />
}}<br />
The HALOS Act is short for the "Helping Angels Lead Our Startups Act"<br />
<br />
====Sec. 3====<br />
This bill directs the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to amend Regulation D (governing the limited offer and sale of securities without registration under the Securities Act of 1933) to make the prohibition against general solicitation or general advertising inapplicable to events with specified kinds of sponsors (including angel investor groups not connected to broker-dealers or investment advisers) where:<br />
*presentations or communications are made by or on behalf of an issuer,<br />
*the advertising does not refer to any specific offering of securities by the issuer,<br />
*the sponsor does not engage in certain activities (such as offering investment recommendations or advice to attendees),<br />
*the sponsor does not receive compensation for the event which would require registration as a broker or dealer or as an investment advisor, and<br />
*no specific information regarding a securities offering is communicated (other than that the issuer is in the process of offering or planning to offer securities, including the type and amount of securities being offered).<br />
<br />
This bill may only be construed as requiring the SEC to amend Regulation D with respect to presentations and communications, and not with respect to purchases or sales.<br />
<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
<br />
114th CONGRESS<br />
2d Session<br />
H. R. 4498<br />
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES<br />
April 28, 2016<br />
Received; read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs<br />
<br />
AN ACT<br />
To clarify the definition of general solicitation under Federal securities law.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.<br />
<br />
This Act may be cited as the “Helping Angels Lead Our Startups Act” or the “HALOS Act”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 2. DEFINITION OF ANGEL INVESTOR GROUP.<br />
<br />
As used in this Act, the term “angel investor group” means any group that—<br />
<br />
(1) is composed of accredited investors interested in investing personal capital in early-stage companies;<br />
<br />
(2) holds regular meetings and has defined processes and procedures for making investment decisions, either individually or among the membership of the group as a whole; and<br />
<br />
(3) is neither associated nor affiliated with brokers, dealers, or investment advisers.<br />
<br />
SEC. 3. CLARIFICATION OF GENERAL SOLICITATION.<br />
<br />
(a) In General.—Not later than 6 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Securities and Exchange Commission shall revise Regulation D of its rules (17 CFR 230.500 et seq.) to require that in carrying out the prohibition against general solicitation or general advertising contained in section 230.502(c) of title 17, Code of Federal Regulations, the prohibition shall not apply to a presentation or other communication made by or on behalf of an issuer which is made at an event—<br />
<br />
(1) sponsored by—<br />
<br />
(A) the United States or any territory thereof, by the District of Columbia, by any State, by a political subdivision of any State or territory, or by any agency or public instrumentality of any of the foregoing;<br />
<br />
(B) a college, university, or other institution of higher education;<br />
<br />
(C) a nonprofit organization;<br />
<br />
(D) an angel investor group;<br />
<br />
(E) a venture forum, venture capital association, or trade association; or<br />
<br />
(F) any other group, person or entity as the Securities and Exchange Commission may determine by rule;<br />
<br />
(2) where any advertising for the event does not reference any specific offering of securities by the issuer;<br />
<br />
(3) the sponsor of which—<br />
<br />
(A) does not make investment recommendations or provide investment advice to event attendees;<br />
<br />
(B) does not engage in an active role in any investment negotiations between the issuer and investors attending the event;<br />
<br />
(C) does not charge event attendees any fees other than administrative fees; and<br />
<br />
(D) does not receive any compensation with respect to such event that would require registration of the sponsor as a broker or a dealer under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, or as an investment advisor under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940; and<br />
<br />
(4) where no specific information regarding an offering of securities by the issuer is communicated or distributed by or on behalf of the issuer, other than—<br />
<br />
(A) that the issuer is in the process of offering securities or planning to offer securities;<br />
<br />
(B) the type and amount of securities being offered;<br />
<br />
(C) the amount of securities being offered that have already been subscribed for; and<br />
<br />
(D) the intended use of proceeds of the offering.<br />
<br />
(b) Rule Of Construction.—Subsection (a) may only be construed as requiring the Securities and Exchange Commission to amend the requirements of Regulation D with respect to presentations and communications, and not with respect to purchases or sales.<br />
<br />
Passed the House of Representatives April 27, 2016.<br />
<br />
Attest: karen l. haas, <br />
Clerk<br />
<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/4498 Link to bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: McCarthy]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=114-HR4498_HALOS_Act&diff=17848114-HR4498 HALOS Act2017-04-17T19:58:23Z<p>Suchen-teh: Suchen-teh moved page 114-HR4498 Helping Angels Lead Our Startups (HALOS) Act to 114-HR4498 HALOS Act without leaving a redirect</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=114-HR4498 Helping Angels Lead Our Startups (HALOS) Act<br />
|Proposed in=114<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Chabot, Steve (R-OH-1)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House - Financial Services, Senate - Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs<br />
|Has bill status=Died<br />
|Has keywords=McCarthy<br />
}}<br />
====Sec. 3====<br />
This bill directs the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to amend Regulation D (governing the limited offer and sale of securities without registration under the Securities Act of 1933) to make the prohibition against general solicitation or general advertising inapplicable to events with specified kinds of sponsors (including angel investor groups not connected to broker-dealers or investment advisers) where:<br />
*presentations or communications are made by or on behalf of an issuer,<br />
*the advertising does not refer to any specific offering of securities by the issuer,<br />
*the sponsor does not engage in certain activities (such as offering investment recommendations or advice to attendees),<br />
*the sponsor does not receive compensation for the event which would require registration as a broker or dealer or as an investment advisor, and<br />
*no specific information regarding a securities offering is communicated (other than that the issuer is in the process of offering or planning to offer securities, including the type and amount of securities being offered).<br />
<br />
This bill may only be construed as requiring the SEC to amend Regulation D with respect to presentations and communications, and not with respect to purchases or sales.<br />
<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
<br />
114th CONGRESS<br />
2d Session<br />
H. R. 4498<br />
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES<br />
April 28, 2016<br />
Received; read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs<br />
<br />
AN ACT<br />
To clarify the definition of general solicitation under Federal securities law.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.<br />
<br />
This Act may be cited as the “Helping Angels Lead Our Startups Act” or the “HALOS Act”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 2. DEFINITION OF ANGEL INVESTOR GROUP.<br />
<br />
As used in this Act, the term “angel investor group” means any group that—<br />
<br />
(1) is composed of accredited investors interested in investing personal capital in early-stage companies;<br />
<br />
(2) holds regular meetings and has defined processes and procedures for making investment decisions, either individually or among the membership of the group as a whole; and<br />
<br />
(3) is neither associated nor affiliated with brokers, dealers, or investment advisers.<br />
<br />
SEC. 3. CLARIFICATION OF GENERAL SOLICITATION.<br />
<br />
(a) In General.—Not later than 6 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Securities and Exchange Commission shall revise Regulation D of its rules (17 CFR 230.500 et seq.) to require that in carrying out the prohibition against general solicitation or general advertising contained in section 230.502(c) of title 17, Code of Federal Regulations, the prohibition shall not apply to a presentation or other communication made by or on behalf of an issuer which is made at an event—<br />
<br />
(1) sponsored by—<br />
<br />
(A) the United States or any territory thereof, by the District of Columbia, by any State, by a political subdivision of any State or territory, or by any agency or public instrumentality of any of the foregoing;<br />
<br />
(B) a college, university, or other institution of higher education;<br />
<br />
(C) a nonprofit organization;<br />
<br />
(D) an angel investor group;<br />
<br />
(E) a venture forum, venture capital association, or trade association; or<br />
<br />
(F) any other group, person or entity as the Securities and Exchange Commission may determine by rule;<br />
<br />
(2) where any advertising for the event does not reference any specific offering of securities by the issuer;<br />
<br />
(3) the sponsor of which—<br />
<br />
(A) does not make investment recommendations or provide investment advice to event attendees;<br />
<br />
(B) does not engage in an active role in any investment negotiations between the issuer and investors attending the event;<br />
<br />
(C) does not charge event attendees any fees other than administrative fees; and<br />
<br />
(D) does not receive any compensation with respect to such event that would require registration of the sponsor as a broker or a dealer under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, or as an investment advisor under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940; and<br />
<br />
(4) where no specific information regarding an offering of securities by the issuer is communicated or distributed by or on behalf of the issuer, other than—<br />
<br />
(A) that the issuer is in the process of offering securities or planning to offer securities;<br />
<br />
(B) the type and amount of securities being offered;<br />
<br />
(C) the amount of securities being offered that have already been subscribed for; and<br />
<br />
(D) the intended use of proceeds of the offering.<br />
<br />
(b) Rule Of Construction.—Subsection (a) may only be construed as requiring the Securities and Exchange Commission to amend the requirements of Regulation D with respect to presentations and communications, and not with respect to purchases or sales.<br />
<br />
Passed the House of Representatives April 27, 2016.<br />
<br />
Attest: karen l. haas, <br />
Clerk<br />
<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/4498 Link to bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: McCarthy]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=114-HR4904_MEGABYTE_Act&diff=17847114-HR4904 MEGABYTE Act2017-04-17T19:58:03Z<p>Suchen-teh: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=114-HR4904 MEGABYTE Act<br />
|Proposed in=114<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Cartwright, Matt (D-PA-17)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House - Oversight and Government Reform, Senate - Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs<br />
|Has bill status=Enacted<br />
|Has keywords=McCarthy<br />
}}<br />
The MEGABYTE Act is short for the "Making Electronic Government Accountable By Yielding Tangible Efficiencies Act". <br />
<br />
====Sec. 2====<br />
This bill requires the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to issue a directive to require the Chief Information Officer (CIO) of each executive agency to develop a comprehensive software licensing policy, which shall: (1) require the CIO of each agency to establish a comprehensive inventory of software licenses; (2) track and maintain such licenses; (3) analyze software usage to make cost-effective decisions; (4) provide software license management training; (5) establish goals and objectives of the agency's software license management program; and (6) consider the software license management life cycle phases to implement effective decision making and incorporate existing standards, processes, and metrics.<br />
<br />
The CIO of each executive agency must report to the OMB, beginning in the first fiscal year after this Act's enactment and in each of the following five fiscal years, on the savings from improved software license management.<br />
<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
One Hundred Fourteenth Congress of the United States of America<br />
At the Second Session<br />
Begun and held at the City of Washington on Monday, the fourth day of January, two thousand and sixteen<br />
H. R. 4904<br />
<br />
AN ACT<br />
<br />
To require the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to issue a directive on the management of software licenses, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
1.Short title<br />
This Act may be cited as the Making Electronic Government Accountable By Yielding Tangible Efficiencies Act of 2016 or the MEGABYTE Act of 2016.<br />
<br />
2.OMB Directive on management of software licenses<br />
(a)Definition<br />
In this section—<br />
<br />
(1)the term Director means the Director of the Office of Management and Budget; and<br />
(2)the term executive agency has the meaning given that term in section 105 of title 5, United States Code.<br />
(b)OMB Directive<br />
The Director shall issue a directive to require the Chief Information Officer of each executive agency to develop a comprehensive software licensing policy, which shall—<br />
<br />
(1)identify clear roles, responsibilities, and central oversight authority within the executive agency for managing enterprise software license agreements and commercial software licenses; and<br />
(2)require the Chief Information Officer of each executive agency to—<br />
(A)establish a comprehensive inventory, including 80 percent of software license spending and enterprise licenses in the executive agency, by identifying and collecting information about software license agreements using automated discovery and inventory tools;<br />
(B)regularly track and maintain software licenses to assist the executive agency in implementing decisions throughout the software license management life cycle;<br />
(C)analyze software usage and other data to make cost-effective decisions;<br />
(D)provide training relevant to software license management;<br />
(E)establish goals and objectives of the software license management program of the executive agency; and<br />
(F)consider the software license management life cycle phases, including the requisition, reception, deployment and maintenance, retirement, and disposal phases, to implement effective decisionmaking and incorporate existing standards, processes, and metrics.<br />
(c)Report on software license management<br />
(1)In general<br />
Beginning in the first fiscal year beginning after the date of enactment of this Act, and in each of the following 5 fiscal years, the Chief Information Officer of each executive agency shall submit to the Director a report on the financial savings or avoidance of spending that resulted from improved software license management.<br />
<br />
(2)Availability<br />
The Director shall make each report submitted under paragraph (1) publically available.<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/4904/ Link to bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: McCarthy]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=114-HR4904_MEGABYTE_Act&diff=17846114-HR4904 MEGABYTE Act2017-04-17T19:54:02Z<p>Suchen-teh: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=114-HR4904 MEGABYTE Act<br />
|Proposed in=114<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Cartwright, Matt (D-PA-17)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House - Oversight and Government Reform, Senate - Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs<br />
|Has bill status=Enacted<br />
|Has keywords=McCarthy<br />
}}<br />
====Sec. 2====<br />
This bill requires the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to issue a directive to require the Chief Information Officer (CIO) of each executive agency to develop a comprehensive software licensing policy, which shall: (1) require the CIO of each agency to establish a comprehensive inventory of software licenses; (2) track and maintain such licenses; (3) analyze software usage to make cost-effective decisions; (4) provide software license management training; (5) establish goals and objectives of the agency's software license management program; and (6) consider the software license management life cycle phases to implement effective decision making and incorporate existing standards, processes, and metrics.<br />
<br />
The CIO of each executive agency must report to the OMB, beginning in the first fiscal year after this Act's enactment and in each of the following five fiscal years, on the savings from improved software license management.<br />
<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
One Hundred Fourteenth Congress of the United States of America<br />
At the Second Session<br />
Begun and held at the City of Washington on Monday, the fourth day of January, two thousand and sixteen<br />
H. R. 4904<br />
<br />
AN ACT<br />
<br />
To require the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to issue a directive on the management of software licenses, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
1.Short title<br />
This Act may be cited as the Making Electronic Government Accountable By Yielding Tangible Efficiencies Act of 2016 or the MEGABYTE Act of 2016.<br />
<br />
2.OMB Directive on management of software licenses<br />
(a)Definition<br />
In this section—<br />
<br />
(1)the term Director means the Director of the Office of Management and Budget; and<br />
(2)the term executive agency has the meaning given that term in section 105 of title 5, United States Code.<br />
(b)OMB Directive<br />
The Director shall issue a directive to require the Chief Information Officer of each executive agency to develop a comprehensive software licensing policy, which shall—<br />
<br />
(1)identify clear roles, responsibilities, and central oversight authority within the executive agency for managing enterprise software license agreements and commercial software licenses; and<br />
(2)require the Chief Information Officer of each executive agency to—<br />
(A)establish a comprehensive inventory, including 80 percent of software license spending and enterprise licenses in the executive agency, by identifying and collecting information about software license agreements using automated discovery and inventory tools;<br />
(B)regularly track and maintain software licenses to assist the executive agency in implementing decisions throughout the software license management life cycle;<br />
(C)analyze software usage and other data to make cost-effective decisions;<br />
(D)provide training relevant to software license management;<br />
(E)establish goals and objectives of the software license management program of the executive agency; and<br />
(F)consider the software license management life cycle phases, including the requisition, reception, deployment and maintenance, retirement, and disposal phases, to implement effective decisionmaking and incorporate existing standards, processes, and metrics.<br />
(c)Report on software license management<br />
(1)In general<br />
Beginning in the first fiscal year beginning after the date of enactment of this Act, and in each of the following 5 fiscal years, the Chief Information Officer of each executive agency shall submit to the Director a report on the financial savings or avoidance of spending that resulted from improved software license management.<br />
<br />
(2)Availability<br />
The Director shall make each report submitted under paragraph (1) publically available.<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/4904/ Link to bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: McCarthy]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=114-HR4904_MEGABYTE_Act&diff=17845114-HR4904 MEGABYTE Act2017-04-17T19:51:31Z<p>Suchen-teh: Created page with "{{Legislation |Has title=114-HR4904 MEGABYTE Act |Proposed in=114 |Sponsored by=Rep. Cartwright, Matt (D-PA-17) |Reviewing committee=House - Oversight and Government Reform, S..."</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=114-HR4904 MEGABYTE Act<br />
|Proposed in=114<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Cartwright, Matt (D-PA-17)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House - Oversight and Government Reform, Senate - Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs<br />
|Has bill status=Enacted<br />
|Has keywords=McCarthy<br />
}}<br />
====Sec. 2====<br />
This bill requires the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to issue a directive to require the Chief Information Officer (CIO) of each executive agency to develop a comprehensive software licensing policy, which shall: (1) require the CIO of each agency to establish a comprehensive inventory of software licenses; (2) track and maintain such licenses; (3) analyze software usage to make cost-effective decisions; (4) provide software license management training; (5) establish goals and objectives of the agency's software license management program; and (6) consider the software license management life cycle phases to implement effective decision making and incorporate existing standards, processes, and metrics.<br />
<br />
The CIO of each executive agency must report to the OMB, beginning in the first fiscal year after this Act's enactment and in each of the following five fiscal years, on the savings from improved software license management.<br />
<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
[114th Congress Public Law 210]<br />
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Page 130 STAT. 824]]<br />
<br />
Public Law 114-210<br />
114th Congress<br />
<br />
An Act<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
To require the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to issue <br />
a directive on the management of software licenses, and for other <br />
purposes. &lt;&lt;NOTE: July 29, 2016 - [H.R. 4904]&gt;&gt; <br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the <br />
United States of America in Congress assembled, &lt;&lt;NOTE: Making <br />
Electronic Government Accountable By Yielding Tangible Efficiencies <br />
Act of 2016. 40 USC 11302 note.&gt;&gt; <br />
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.<br />
<br />
This Act may be cited as the ``Making Electronic Government <br />
Accountable By Yielding Tangible Efficiencies Act of 2016'' or the <br />
``MEGABYTE Act of 2016''.<br />
SEC. 2. OMB DIRECTIVE ON MANAGEMENT OF SOFTWARE LICENSES.<br />
<br />
(a) Definition.--In this section--<br />
(1) the term ``Director'' means the Director of the Office <br />
of Management and Budget; and<br />
(2) the term ``executive agency'' has the meaning given that <br />
term in section 105 of title 5, United States Code.<br />
<br />
(b) OMB Directive.--The Director shall issue a directive to require <br />
the Chief Information Officer of each executive agency to develop a <br />
comprehensive software licensing policy, which shall--<br />
(1) identify clear roles, responsibilities, and central <br />
oversight authority within the executive agency for managing <br />
enterprise software license agreements and commercial software <br />
licenses; and<br />
(2) require the Chief Information Officer of each executive <br />
agency to--<br />
(A) &lt;&lt;NOTE: Inventory.&gt;&gt; establish a comprehensive <br />
inventory, including 80 percent of software license <br />
spending and enterprise licenses in the executive <br />
agency, by identifying and collecting information about <br />
software license agreements using automated discovery <br />
and inventory tools;<br />
(B) regularly track and maintain software licenses <br />
to assist the executive agency in implementing decisions <br />
throughout the software license management life cycle;<br />
(C) &lt;&lt;NOTE: Analyze.&gt;&gt; analyze software usage and <br />
other data to make cost-effective decisions;<br />
(D) provide training relevant to software license <br />
management;<br />
(E) establish goals and objectives of the software <br />
license management program of the executive agency; and<br />
(F) consider the software license management life <br />
cycle phases, including the requisition, reception, <br />
deployment and maintenance, retirement, and disposal <br />
phases, to implement effective decisionmaking and <br />
incorporate existing standards, processes, and metrics.<br />
<br />
[[Page 130 STAT. 825]]<br />
<br />
(c) Report on Software License Management.--<br />
(1) &lt;&lt;NOTE: Effective date. Deadline.&gt;&gt; In general.--<br />
Beginning in the first fiscal year beginning after the date of <br />
enactment of this Act, and in each of the following 5 fiscal <br />
years, the Chief Information Officer of each executive agency <br />
shall submit to the Director a report on the financial savings <br />
or avoidance of spending that resulted from improved software <br />
license management.<br />
(2) &lt;&lt;NOTE: Public information.&gt;&gt; Availability.--The <br />
Director shall make each report submitted under paragraph (1) <br />
publically available.<br />
<br />
Approved July 29, 2016.<br />
<br />
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY--H.R. 4904 (S. 2340):<br />
---------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />
<br />
HOUSE REPORTS: No. 114-587 (Comm. on Oversight and Government Reform).<br />
SENATE REPORTS: No. 114-289 (Comm. on Homeland Security and Governmental <br />
Affairs) accompanying S. 2340.<br />
CONGRESSIONAL RECORD, Vol. 162 (2016):<br />
June 7, considered and passed House.<br />
July 14, considered and passed Senate.<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/4904/ Link to bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: McCarthy]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=115-HR1465_National_Cybersecurity_Preparedness_Consortium_Act&diff=17811115-HR1465 National Cybersecurity Preparedness Consortium Act2017-04-14T17:29:53Z<p>Suchen-teh: Created page with "{{Legislation |Has title=115-HR1465 National Cybersecurity Preparedness Consortium Act |Proposed in=115 |Sponsored by=Rep. Castro, Joaquin (D-TX-20) |Reviewing committee=House..."</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=115-HR1465 National Cybersecurity Preparedness Consortium Act<br />
|Proposed in=115<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Castro, Joaquin (D-TX-20)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House - Homeland Security<br />
|Has bill status=Proposed<br />
|Has keywords=McCarthy<br />
}}<br />
This bill authorizes the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to work with a consortium, including the National Cybersecurity Preparedness Consortium, to support efforts to address cybersecurity risks and incidents, including threats or acts of terrorism.<br />
<br />
DHS may work with such a consortium to assist its national cybersecurity and communications integration center to:<br />
*provide training to state and local first responders and officials, develop curriculums, and provide technical assistance;<br />
*conduct cross-sector cybersecurity training and simulation exercises for state and local governments, critical infrastructure owners and operators, and private industry;<br />
*help states and communities develop cybersecurity information sharing programs; and<br />
*help incorporate cybersecurity risk and incident prevention and response into existing state and local emergency plans and continuity of operations plans.<br />
<br />
DHS's authority to carry out this bill terminates five years after its enactment.<br />
<br />
This bill was also previously introduced in the 114th Congress (HR4743) with the same sponsor. <br />
<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
115th CONGRESS<br />
1st Session<br />
H. R. 1465<br />
<br />
To authorize the Secretary of Homeland Security to work with cybersecurity consortia for training, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES<br />
March 9, 2017<br />
Mr. Castro of Texas (for himself, Mr. Hurd, Mr. Doggett, Mr. Smith of Texas, and Mr. Cuellar) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Homeland Security<br />
<br />
A BILL<br />
To authorize the Secretary of Homeland Security to work with cybersecurity consortia for training, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.<br />
<br />
This Act may be cited as the “National Cybersecurity Preparedness Consortium Act of 2017”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.<br />
<br />
In this Act—<br />
<br />
(1) the term “consortium” means a group primarily composed of nonprofit entities, including academic institutions, that develop, update, and deliver cybersecurity training in support of homeland security;<br />
<br />
(2) the terms “cybersecurity risk” and “incident” have the meanings given those terms in section 227(a) of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 148(a));<br />
<br />
(3) the term “Department” means the Department of Homeland Security; and<br />
<br />
(4) the term “Secretary” means the Secretary of Homeland Security.<br />
<br />
SEC. 3. NATIONAL CYBERSECURITY PREPAREDNESS CONSORTIUM.<br />
<br />
(a) In General.—The Secretary may work with a consortium, including the National Cybersecurity Preparedness Consortium, to support efforts to address cybersecurity risks and incidents, including threats of terrorism and acts of terrorism.<br />
<br />
(b) Assistance To The NCCIC.—The Secretary may work with a consortium to assist the national cybersecurity and communications integration center of the Department (established under section 227 of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 148)) to—<br />
<br />
(1) provide training to State and local first responders and officials specifically for preparing for and responding to cybersecurity risks and incidents, including threats of terrorism and acts of terrorism, in accordance with applicable law;<br />
<br />
(2) develop and update a curriculum utilizing existing programs and models in accordance with such section 227, for State and local first responders and officials, related to cybersecurity risks and incidents, including threats of terrorism and acts of terrorism;<br />
<br />
(3) provide technical assistance services to build and sustain capabilities in support of preparedness for and response to cybersecurity risks and incidents, including threats of terrorism and acts of terrorism, in accordance with such section 227;<br />
<br />
(4) conduct cross-sector cybersecurity training and simulation exercises for entities, including State and local governments, critical infrastructure owners and operators, and private industry, to encourage community-wide coordination in defending against and responding to cybersecurity risks and incidents, including threats of terrorism and acts of terrorism, in accordance with section 228(c) of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 149(c));<br />
<br />
(5) help States and communities develop cybersecurity information sharing programs, in accordance with section 227 of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 148), for the dissemination of homeland security information related to cybersecurity risks and incidents, including threats of terrorism and acts of terrorism; and<br />
<br />
(6) help incorporate cybersecurity risk and incident prevention and response (including related to threats of terrorism and acts of terrorism) into existing State and local emergency plans, including continuity of operations plans.<br />
<br />
(c) Prohibition On Duplication.—In carrying out the functions under subsection (b), the Secretary shall, to the greatest extent practicable, seek to prevent unnecessary duplication of existing programs or efforts of the Department.<br />
<br />
(d) Considerations Regarding Selection Of A Consortium.—In selecting a consortium with which to work under this Act, the Secretary shall take into consideration the following:<br />
<br />
(1) Any prior experience conducting cybersecurity training and exercises for State and local entities.<br />
<br />
(2) Geographic diversity of the members of any such consortium so as to cover different regions throughout the United States.<br />
<br />
(e) Metrics.—If the Secretary works with a consortium under subsection (a), the Secretary shall measure the effectiveness of the activities undertaken by the consortium under this Act.<br />
<br />
(f) Outreach.—The Secretary shall conduct outreach to universities and colleges, including historically Black colleges and universities, Hispanic-serving institutions, Tribal Colleges and Universities, and other minority-serving institutions, regarding opportunities to support efforts to address cybersecurity risks and incidents, including threats of terrorism and acts of terrorism, by working with the Secretary under subsection (a).<br />
<br />
(g) Termination.—The authority to carry out this Act shall terminate on the date that is five years after the date of the enactment of this Act.<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/1465 Link to bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: McCarthy]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=114-HR4596_Small_Business_Broadband_Deployment_Act&diff=17810114-HR4596 Small Business Broadband Deployment Act2017-04-14T17:26:22Z<p>Suchen-teh: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=114-HR4596 Small Business Broadband Deployment Act<br />
|Proposed in=114<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Walden, Greg (R-OR-2)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House - Energy and Commerce, Senate - Commerce, Science, and Transportation<br />
|Has bill status=Died<br />
|Has keywords=McCarthy<br />
}}<br />
====Sec. 2====<br />
This bill exempts for five years any small business broadband Internet access service provider with no more than 250,000 subscribers from the enhancements to the transparency rule of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) under which any person engaged in the provision of broadband Internet access service must disclose publicly accurate information regarding the network management practices, performance, and commercial terms of its broadband Internet access services sufficient for:<br />
*consumers to make informed choices regarding their use; and<br />
*content, application, service, and device providers to develop, market, and maintain Internet offerings.<br />
<br />
The FCC shall report to specified congressional committees, within 180 days after enactment of this Act, its recommendations (together with supporting data) on whether:<br />
*this exception should be made permanent, and<br />
*the definition of "small business" for these purposes should be modified.<br />
<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
114th CONGRESS<br />
2d Session<br />
H. R. 4596<br />
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES<br />
March 17, 2016<br />
Received; read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation<br />
<br />
AN ACT<br />
To ensure that small business providers of broadband Internet access service can devote resources to broadband deployment rather than compliance with cumbersome regulatory requirements.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.<br />
<br />
This Act may be cited as the “Small Business Broadband Deployment Act”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 2. EXCEPTION TO ENHANCEMENT TO TRANSPARENCY REQUIREMENTS FOR SMALL BUSINESSES.<br />
<br />
(a) In General.—The enhancements to the transparency rule of the Federal Communications Commission under section 8.3 of title 47, Code of Federal Regulations, as described in paragraphs 162 through 184 of the Report and Order on Remand, Declaratory Ruling, and Order of the Federal Communications Commission with regard to protecting and promoting the open Internet (adopted February 26, 2015) (FCC 15–24), shall not apply to any small business.<br />
<br />
(b) Sunset.—Subsection (a) shall not have any force or effect after the date that is 5 years after the date of the enactment of this Act.<br />
<br />
(c) Report By FCC.—Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Federal Communications Commission shall submit to the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report that contains the recommendations of the Commission (and data supporting such recommendations) regarding—<br />
<br />
(1) whether the exception provided by subsection (a) should be made permanent; and<br />
<br />
(2) whether the definition of the term “small business” for purposes of such exception should be modified from the definition in subsection (d)(2).<br />
<br />
(d) Definitions.—In this section:<br />
<br />
(1) BROADBAND INTERNET ACCESS SERVICE.—The term “broadband Internet access service” has the meaning given such term in section 8.2 of title 47, Code of Federal Regulations.<br />
<br />
(2) SMALL BUSINESS.—The term “small business” means any provider of broadband Internet access service that has not more than 250,000 subscribers.<br />
<br />
Passed the House of Representatives March 16, 2016.<br />
<br />
Attest: karen l. haas, <br />
Clerk<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/4596/ Link to bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: McCarthy]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=114-HR4596_Small_Business_Broadband_Deployment_Act&diff=17809114-HR4596 Small Business Broadband Deployment Act2017-04-14T17:26:04Z<p>Suchen-teh: Created page with "{{Legislation |Has title=114-HR4596 Small Business Broadband Deployment Act |Proposed in=114 |Sponsored by=Rep. Walden, Greg (R-OR-2) |Reviewing committee=House - Energy and C..."</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=114-HR4596 Small Business Broadband Deployment Act<br />
|Proposed in=114<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Walden, Greg (R-OR-2)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House - Energy and Commerce, Senate - Commerce, Science, and Transportation<br />
|Has bill status=Died<br />
|Has keywords=McCarthy<br />
}}<br />
====Sec. 2====<br />
This bill exempts for five years any small business broadband Internet access service provider with no more than 250,000 subscribers from the enhancements to the transparency rule of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) under which any person engaged in the provision of broadband Internet access service must disclose publicly accurate information regarding the network management practices, performance, and commercial terms of its broadband Internet access services sufficient for:<br />
*consumers to make informed choices regarding their use; and<br />
*content, application, service, and device providers to develop, market, and maintain Internet offerings.<br />
<br />
The FCC shall report to specified congressional committees, within 180 days after enactment of this Act, its recommendations (together with supporting data) on whether:<br />
*this exception should be made permanent, and<br />
*the definition of "small business" for these purposes should be modified.<br />
<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
114th CONGRESS<br />
2d Session<br />
H. R. 4596<br />
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES<br />
March 17, 2016<br />
Received; read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation<br />
<br />
AN ACT<br />
To ensure that small business providers of broadband Internet access service can devote resources to broadband deployment rather than compliance with cumbersome regulatory requirements.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.<br />
<br />
This Act may be cited as the “Small Business Broadband Deployment Act”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 2. EXCEPTION TO ENHANCEMENT TO TRANSPARENCY REQUIREMENTS FOR SMALL BUSINESSES.<br />
<br />
(a) In General.—The enhancements to the transparency rule of the Federal Communications Commission under section 8.3 of title 47, Code of Federal Regulations, as described in paragraphs 162 through 184 of the Report and Order on Remand, Declaratory Ruling, and Order of the Federal Communications Commission with regard to protecting and promoting the open Internet (adopted February 26, 2015) (FCC 15–24), shall not apply to any small business.<br />
<br />
(b) Sunset.—Subsection (a) shall not have any force or effect after the date that is 5 years after the date of the enactment of this Act.<br />
<br />
(c) Report By FCC.—Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Federal Communications Commission shall submit to the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report that contains the recommendations of the Commission (and data supporting such recommendations) regarding—<br />
<br />
(1) whether the exception provided by subsection (a) should be made permanent; and<br />
<br />
(2) whether the definition of the term “small business” for purposes of such exception should be modified from the definition in subsection (d)(2).<br />
<br />
(d) Definitions.—In this section:<br />
<br />
(1) BROADBAND INTERNET ACCESS SERVICE.—The term “broadband Internet access service” has the meaning given such term in section 8.2 of title 47, Code of Federal Regulations.<br />
<br />
(2) SMALL BUSINESS.—The term “small business” means any provider of broadband Internet access service that has not more than 250,000 subscribers.<br />
<br />
Passed the House of Representatives March 16, 2016.<br />
<br />
Attest: karen l. haas, <br />
Clerk<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/4596/ Link to bill page]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=114-HR2666_No_Rate_Regulation_of_Broadband_Internet_Access_Act&diff=17807114-HR2666 No Rate Regulation of Broadband Internet Access Act2017-04-14T16:55:48Z<p>Suchen-teh: Created page with "{{Legislation |Has title=114-HR2666 No Rate Regulation of Broadband Internet Access Act |Proposed in=114 |Sponsored by=Rep. Kinzinger, Adam (R-IL-16) |Reviewing committee=Hous..."</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=114-HR2666 No Rate Regulation of Broadband Internet Access Act<br />
|Proposed in=114<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Kinzinger, Adam (R-IL-16)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House - Energy and Commerce<br />
|Has bill status=Died<br />
|Has keywords=McCarthy<br />
}}<br />
====Sec. 2====<br />
This bill prohibits the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) from regulating the rates charged for broadband Internet access service.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 3====<br />
Nothing in this Act shall be construed to affect the FCC's authority to: (1) condition receipt of universal service support by a provider of broadband Internet access service on the regulation of the rates charged by such provider for the supported service, or (2) enforce regulations relating to truth-in-billing requirements or paid prioritization.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 4====<br />
Broadband Internet access service shall not be construed to include data roaming or interconnection for purposes of this Act.<br />
<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
114th CONGRESS<br />
2d Session<br />
H. R. 2666<br />
<br />
To prohibit the Federal Communications Commission from regulating the rates charged for broadband Internet access service.<br />
<br />
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES<br />
April 18, 2016<br />
Received<br />
<br />
April 20, 2016<br />
Read the first time<br />
<br />
April 21, 2016<br />
Read the second time and placed on the calendar<br />
<br />
AN ACT<br />
To prohibit the Federal Communications Commission from regulating the rates charged for broadband Internet access service.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.<br />
<br />
This Act may be cited as the “No Rate Regulation of Broadband Internet Access Act”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 2. REGULATION OF BROADBAND RATES PROHIBITED.<br />
<br />
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Federal Communications Commission may not regulate the rates charged for broadband Internet access service.<br />
<br />
SEC. 3. EXCEPTIONS.<br />
<br />
Nothing in this Act shall be construed to affect the authority of the Commission to—<br />
<br />
(1) condition receipt of universal service support under section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 (47 U.S.C. 254) by a provider of broadband Internet access service on the regulation of the rates charged by such provider for the supported service;<br />
<br />
(2) enforce subpart Y of part 64 of title 47, Code of Federal Regulations (relating to truth-in-billing requirements); or<br />
<br />
(3) enforce section 8.9 of title 47, Code of Federal Regulations (relating to paid prioritization).<br />
<br />
SEC. 4. ADDITIONAL RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.<br />
<br />
For purposes of this Act, broadband Internet access service shall not be construed to include data roaming or interconnection.<br />
<br />
SEC. 5. DEFINITIONS.<br />
<br />
In this Act:<br />
<br />
(1) BROADBAND INTERNET ACCESS SERVICE.—The term “broadband Internet access service” has the meaning given such term in the rules adopted in the Report and Order on Remand, Declaratory Ruling, and Order that was adopted by the Commission on February 26, 2015 (FCC 15–24).<br />
<br />
(2) COMMISSION.—The term “Commission” means the Federal Communications Commission.<br />
<br />
(3) RATE.—The term “rate” means the amount charged by a provider of broadband Internet access service for the delivery of broadband Internet traffic.<br />
<br />
(4) REGULATION.—The term “regulation” or “regulate” means, with respect to a rate, the use by the Commission of rulemaking or enforcement authority to establish, declare, or review the reasonableness of such rate.<br />
<br />
Passed the House of Representatives April 15, 2016.<br />
<br />
Attest:<br />
Karen L. Haas,<br />
Clerk <br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/2666/ Link to bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: McCarthy]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=114-HR4111_Rural_Health_Care_Connectivity_Act&diff=17805114-HR4111 Rural Health Care Connectivity Act2017-04-14T16:39:23Z<p>Suchen-teh: Created page with "{{Legislation |Has title=114-HR4111 Rural Health Care Connectivity Act |Proposed in=114 |Sponsored by=Rep. Lance, Leonard (R-NJ-7) |Reviewing committee=House - Energy and Comm..."</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=114-HR4111 Rural Health Care Connectivity Act<br />
|Proposed in=114<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Lance, Leonard (R-NJ-7)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House - Energy and Commerce<br />
|Has bill status=Died<br />
|Has keywords=McCarthy<br />
}}<br />
====Sec. 2====<br />
This bill amends the Communications Act of 1934 to include skilled nursing facilities among the types of health care providers who may request from a telecommunications carrier under the Universal Service Fund the necessary telecommunications and information services to serve persons who reside in rural areas at rates that are reasonably comparable to rates charged for similar services in urban areas.<br />
<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
114th CONGRESS<br />
2d Session<br />
H. R. 4111<br />
[Report No. 114–582]<br />
<br />
<br />
To include skilled nursing facilities as a type of health care provider under section 254(h) of the Communications Act of 1934.<br />
<br />
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES<br />
November 19, 2015<br />
Mr. Lance (for himself, Mr. Cramer, and Mr. Loebsack) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce<br />
<br />
May 23, 2016<br />
Reported with an amendment, committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the State of the Union, and ordered to be printed<br />
<br />
[Strike out all after the enacting clause and insert the part printed in italic]<br />
<br />
[For text of introduced bill, see copy of bill as introduced on November 19, 2015]<br />
<br />
A BILL<br />
To include skilled nursing facilities as a type of health care provider under section 254(h) of the Communications Act of 1934.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.<br />
<br />
This Act may be cited as the “Rural Health Care Connectivity Act of 2016”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 2. TELECOMMUNICATIONS SERVICES FOR SKILLED NURSING FACILITIES.<br />
<br />
(a) In General.—Section 254(h)(7)(B) of the Communications Act of 1934 (47 U.S.C. 254(h)(7)(B)) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) in clause (vi), by striking “and” at the end;<br />
<br />
(2) by redesignating clause (vii) as clause (viii);<br />
<br />
(3) by inserting after clause (vi) the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(vii) skilled nursing facilities (as defined in section 1819(a) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395i–3(a))); and”; and<br />
<br />
(4) in clause (viii), as redesignated, by striking “clauses (i) through (vi)” and inserting “clauses (i) through (vii)”.<br />
<br />
(b) Savings Clause.—Nothing in subsection (a) shall be construed to affect the aggregate annual cap on Federal universal service support for health care providers under section 54.675 of title 47, Code of Federal Regulations, or any successor regulation.<br />
<br />
(c) Effective Date.—The amendments made by subsection (a) shall apply beginning on the date that is 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act.<br />
<br />
Union Calendar No. 452<br />
<br />
114th CONGRESS<br />
2d Session<br />
H. R. 4111<br />
[Report No. 114–582]<br />
A BILL<br />
To include skilled nursing facilities as a type of health care provider under section 254(h) of the Communications Act of 1934.<br />
May 23, 2016<br />
Reported with an amendment, committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the State of the Union, and ordered to be printed<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/4111 Link to bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: McCarthy]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=114-HRes835_Expressing_the_sense_of_the_House_of_Representatives_that_the_United_States_should_adopt_a_national_policy_for_technology_to_promote_consumers%27_access_to_financial_tools_and_online_commerce_to_promote_economic_growth_and_consumer_empowerment&diff=17804114-HRes835 Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the United States should adopt a national policy for technology to promote consumers' access to financial tools and online commerce to promote economic growth and consumer empowerment2017-04-14T16:30:40Z<p>Suchen-teh: Created page with "{{Legislation |Has title=114-HRes835 Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the United States should adopt a national policy for technology to promote consu..."</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=114-HRes835 Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the United States should adopt a national policy for technology to promote consumers' access to financial tools and online commerce to promote economic growth and consumer empowerment<br />
|Proposed in=114<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Kinzinger, Adam (R-IL-16)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House - Energy and Commerce<br />
|Has bill status=Died<br />
|Has keywords=McCarthy<br />
}}<br />
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the United States should:<br />
*develop a national policy to encourage the development of tools for consumers to learn and protect their assets in a way that maximizes the promise customized, connected devices hold to empower consumers, foster future economic growth, and create new commerce and markets;<br />
*prioritize accelerating the development of alternative technologies that support transparency, security, and authentication in a way that recognizes their benefits, allows for future innovation, and responsibly protects consumers' personal information;<br />
*recognize that technology experts can play an important role in the future development of consumer-facing technology applications for manufacturing, automobiles, telecommunications, tourism, health care, energy, and general commerce; and<br />
*support further innovation and economic growth and ensure cybersecurity and the protection of consumer privacy.<br />
<br />
Calls for innovators in technology, manufacturing, automobiles, telecommunications, tourism, health care, and energy industries to commit to improving the quality of life for future generations by developing new technology that is safe and consumer protective and that is aimed at improving consumers' access to commerce.<br />
<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
H. Res. 835<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
In the House of Representatives, U. S.,<br />
September 12, 2016. <br />
<br />
Whereas technology solutions have the potential to improve consumers’ ability to control their economic well-being, to encourage their financial literacy, and improve their knowledge base and increase their options to manage their finances and engage in commerce;<br />
<br />
Whereas new payment methods and new payment strategies reflect new commercial opportunities;<br />
<br />
Whereas the United States is the world leader in software development and technology creation;<br />
<br />
Whereas financial technology is creating new opportunities for the 24,800,000 underbanked households in the United States;<br />
<br />
Whereas the growth of consumers’ use of mobile devices and the deployment of broadband access has supported the growth of financial technology products and services outside of traditional products and services offered by banks and other financial institutions in the United States increasing commerce and job growth;<br />
<br />
Whereas identity theft is a rising concern for people in the United States as their personal information is targeted by criminal enterprises for monetization on the black market;<br />
<br />
Whereas cyberattacks against domestic and international financial institutions and cooperatives continue;<br />
<br />
Whereas emerging payment options, including alternative non-fiat currencies, are leveraging technology to improve security through increased transparency and verifiable trust mechanisms to supplant decades old payment technology deployed by traditional financial institutions; and<br />
<br />
Whereas blockchain technology with the appropriate protections has the potential to fundamentally change the manner in which trust and security are established in online transactions through various potential applications in sectors including financial services, payments, health care, energy, property management, and intellectual property management: Now, therefore, be it<br />
<br />
Resolved, That it is the sense of the House of Representatives that—<br />
<br />
(1) the United States should develop a national policy to encourage the development of tools for consumers to learn and protect their assets in a way that maximizes the promise customized, connected devices hold to empower consumers, foster future economic growth, create new commerce and new markets;<br />
<br />
(2) the United States should prioritize accelerating the development of alternative technologies that support transparency, security, and authentication in a way that recognizes their benefits, allows for future innovation, and responsibly protects consumers’ personal information;<br />
<br />
(3) the United States should recognize that technology experts can play an important role in the future development of consumer-facing technology applications for manufacturing, automobiles, telecommunications, tourism, health care, energy, and general commerce;<br />
<br />
(4) the United States should support further innovation, and economic growth, and ensure cybersecurity, and the protection of consumer privacy; and<br />
<br />
(5) innovators in technology, manufacturing, automobiles, telecommunications, tourism, health care, and energy industries should commit to improving the quality of life for future generations by developing safe and consumer protective, new technology aimed at improving consumers’ access to commerce.<br />
<br />
Attest:<br />
Clerk. <br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-resolution/835/ Link to bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: McCarthy]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=114-HR5577_Innovation_in_Offshore_Leasing_Act&diff=17803114-HR5577 Innovation in Offshore Leasing Act2017-04-14T16:29:39Z<p>Suchen-teh: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=114-HR5577 Innovation in Offshore Leasing Act<br />
|Proposed in=114<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Graves, Garret (R-LA-6)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House - Natural Resources, Senate - Energy and Natural Resources<br />
|Has bill status=Died<br />
|Has keywords=McCarthy<br />
}}<br />
====Sec. 2====<br />
This bill amends the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to authorize the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) to conduct offshore oil and gas lease sales through Internet-based bidding methods.<br />
<br />
Before conducting any Internet-based sale, BOEM is required to gather information from each company present for bidding at the 10 most recent oil and gas lease sales conducted under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act. The information is designed to provide the bidding public sufficient opportunity to share ideas, methods, and concerns regarding Internet-based leasing.<br />
<br />
All Internet-based sales must meet certain requirements and BOEM shall publicly disclose statistical data regarding any sale on the day the sale is executed.<br />
<br />
Additionally, BOEM must conduct at least one Internet-based lease sale in the Gulf of Mexico Outer Continental Shelf Region within 18 months.<br />
<br />
BOEM must also provide a report to Congress within 90 days after it conducts a third Internet-based lease sale.<br />
<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
114th CONGRESS<br />
2d Session<br />
H. R. 5577<br />
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES<br />
September 7, 2016<br />
Received; read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources<br />
<br />
AN ACT<br />
To amend the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to conduct offshore oil and gas lease sales through Internet-based live lease sales, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.<br />
<br />
This Act may be cited as the “Innovation in Offshore Leasing Act”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 2. INTERNET-BASED OFFSHORE OIL AND GAS LEASE SALES.<br />
<br />
(a) Authorization.—Section 8 of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (43 U.S.C. 1337) is amended by adding at the end the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(q) Internet-Based Oil And Gas Lease Sales.—<br />
<br />
“(1) IN GENERAL.—In order to modernize the Nation’s offshore leasing program to ensure the best return to the Federal taxpayer, reduce fraud, and ensure a fair and competitive leasing process, the Secretary may conduct lease sales under this section through Internet-based, sealed-bidding methods.<br />
<br />
“(2) SALE REQUIREMENTS.—Sales conducted under paragraph (1) shall ensure—<br />
<br />
“(A) a publicly and freely accessible digital delivery of the bid reading process, such as live Internet streaming, and an option for bidders to submit bids electronically;<br />
<br />
“(B) a bidder verification process that discloses to bidders, by no later than 5 p.m. Central Time of the day before each sale, a list of all bids submitted (including the person submitting each bid) on each lease tract without disclosing bid amounts;<br />
<br />
“(C) the ability for a bidder to correct a possible misreading of a submitted bid;<br />
<br />
“(D) a designee from within the Office of the Solicitor of the Department of the Interior to act as an independent, third-party observer who will be present during the bid reading process to prevent wrongdoing, independently certify the bidding process, and maintain transparency;<br />
<br />
“(E) data security measures to ensure bidder data is kept secure; and<br />
<br />
“(F) a participant survey soliciting voluntary feedback from bidders on the bidding process.<br />
<br />
“(3) TRANSPARENCY IN SALE-DAY STATISTICS.—<br />
<br />
“(A) REQUIREMENT.—The Secretary shall publicly disclose statistical data regarding each lease sale under this subsection, on the day the sale is executed.<br />
<br />
“(B) INCLUDED DATA.—Among data disclosed, the Secretary shall include—<br />
<br />
“(i) the total value of high bids;<br />
<br />
“(ii) the number of tracts offered;<br />
<br />
“(iii) the number of acres offered;<br />
<br />
“(iv) the number of tracts receiving bids;<br />
<br />
“(v) the number of acres receiving bids;<br />
<br />
“(vi) the total number of bids;<br />
<br />
“(vii) the average number of bids per tract;<br />
<br />
“(viii) the total number of bidders participating;<br />
<br />
“(ix) bidding statistics by water depth;<br />
<br />
“(x) the name of the entity that submitted each bid, the amount of the bid, and the tract for which the bid was submitted;<br />
<br />
“(xi) of tracts receiving bids, the number of bids per tract by water depth;<br />
<br />
“(xii) the tract receiving the greatest number of bids;<br />
<br />
“(xiii) the tract receiving the highest bid; and<br />
<br />
“(xiv) any other statistical data that may be disclosed in accordance with this Act.<br />
<br />
“(C) DATA TRANSPARENCY.—The Secretary shall ensure all data regarding lease sales under this subsection is publicly available and easily accessible, free of charge, on the Internet, including for download and aggregation in machine-readable format.”.<br />
<br />
(b) Modernizing Leasing Through Collaboration.—<br />
<br />
(1) IN GENERAL.—Before conducting the first Internet-based lease sale under the amendment made by this section, the Secretary of the Interior shall issue a request for information from each company present for bidding at the ten most recent oil and gas lease sales conducted by the Secretary under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act, in order to provide the bidding public sufficient opportunity to share innovative ideas, methods, and concerns regarding Internet-based leasing.<br />
<br />
(2) INTEGRATION OF INFORMATION.—The Secretary shall review, evaluate, and integrate suggestions and concerns collected under paragraph (1) as the Secretary works to modernize the offshore leasing process through Internet-based leasing options.<br />
<br />
(3) USER WORKSHOP.—The Secretary shall conduct not less than one user workshop with viable bidders prior to conducting an Internet-based lease sale to provide the bidding public with an opportunity to beta test any prototype of an Internet-based leasing platform.<br />
<br />
(c) Deadline For Gulf Of Mexico Lease Sale.—Not later than 18 months after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Interior shall conduct at least one Internet-based lease sale under the amendment made by subsection (a) for leasable acreage in the Gulf of Mexico.<br />
<br />
(d) Evaluating Internet-Based Offshore Leasing.—Not later than 90 days after the third Internet-based lease sale conducted under the amendment made by subsection (a), the Secretary of the Interior shall analyze all such Internet-based lease sales and transmit to Congress a thorough analysis of the sales. The analysis shall include—<br />
<br />
(1) estimates of increases or decreases in such lease sales, compared to sales conducted by non-Internet-based bidding, in—<br />
<br />
(A) the number of bidders;<br />
<br />
(B) the average amount of bids;<br />
<br />
(C) the highest bid; and<br />
<br />
(D) the lowest bid;<br />
<br />
(2) an estimate of the total cost or savings to the Department of the Interior as a result of such sales, compared to sales conducted by non-Internet-based bidding;<br />
<br />
(3) voluntary and anonymous feedback from persons participating in such sales, on the Internet-based leasing process and potential areas for improvement in such sales; and<br />
<br />
(4) an evaluation of the demonstrated or expected effectiveness of different structures for lease sales that may provide an opportunity to better maximize bidder participation, ensure the highest return to the Federal taxpayers, minimize opportunities for fraud or collusion, and ensure the security and integrity of the leasing process.<br />
<br />
Passed the House of Representatives September 6, 2016.<br />
<br />
Attest: karen l. haas, <br />
Clerk.<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/5577/ Link to bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: McCarthy]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=114-HR5577_Innovation_in_Offshore_Leasing_Act&diff=17802114-HR5577 Innovation in Offshore Leasing Act2017-04-14T16:22:27Z<p>Suchen-teh: Created page with "{{Legislation |Has title=114-HR5577 Innovation in Offshore Leasing Act |Proposed in=114 |Sponsored by=Rep. Graves, Garret (R-LA-6) |Reviewing committee=House - Natural Resourc..."</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=114-HR5577 Innovation in Offshore Leasing Act<br />
|Proposed in=114<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Graves, Garret (R-LA-6)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House - Natural Resources, Senate - Energy and Natural Resources<br />
|Has bill status=Died<br />
}}<br />
====Sec. 2====<br />
This bill amends the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to authorize the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) to conduct offshore oil and gas lease sales through Internet-based bidding methods.<br />
<br />
Before conducting any Internet-based sale, BOEM is required to gather information from each company present for bidding at the 10 most recent oil and gas lease sales conducted under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act. The information is designed to provide the bidding public sufficient opportunity to share ideas, methods, and concerns regarding Internet-based leasing.<br />
<br />
All Internet-based sales must meet certain requirements and BOEM shall publicly disclose statistical data regarding any sale on the day the sale is executed.<br />
<br />
Additionally, BOEM must conduct at least one Internet-based lease sale in the Gulf of Mexico Outer Continental Shelf Region within 18 months.<br />
<br />
BOEM must also provide a report to Congress within 90 days after it conducts a third Internet-based lease sale.<br />
<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
114th CONGRESS<br />
2d Session<br />
H. R. 5577<br />
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES<br />
September 7, 2016<br />
Received; read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources<br />
<br />
AN ACT<br />
To amend the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to conduct offshore oil and gas lease sales through Internet-based live lease sales, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.<br />
<br />
This Act may be cited as the “Innovation in Offshore Leasing Act”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 2. INTERNET-BASED OFFSHORE OIL AND GAS LEASE SALES.<br />
<br />
(a) Authorization.—Section 8 of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (43 U.S.C. 1337) is amended by adding at the end the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(q) Internet-Based Oil And Gas Lease Sales.—<br />
<br />
“(1) IN GENERAL.—In order to modernize the Nation’s offshore leasing program to ensure the best return to the Federal taxpayer, reduce fraud, and ensure a fair and competitive leasing process, the Secretary may conduct lease sales under this section through Internet-based, sealed-bidding methods.<br />
<br />
“(2) SALE REQUIREMENTS.—Sales conducted under paragraph (1) shall ensure—<br />
<br />
“(A) a publicly and freely accessible digital delivery of the bid reading process, such as live Internet streaming, and an option for bidders to submit bids electronically;<br />
<br />
“(B) a bidder verification process that discloses to bidders, by no later than 5 p.m. Central Time of the day before each sale, a list of all bids submitted (including the person submitting each bid) on each lease tract without disclosing bid amounts;<br />
<br />
“(C) the ability for a bidder to correct a possible misreading of a submitted bid;<br />
<br />
“(D) a designee from within the Office of the Solicitor of the Department of the Interior to act as an independent, third-party observer who will be present during the bid reading process to prevent wrongdoing, independently certify the bidding process, and maintain transparency;<br />
<br />
“(E) data security measures to ensure bidder data is kept secure; and<br />
<br />
“(F) a participant survey soliciting voluntary feedback from bidders on the bidding process.<br />
<br />
“(3) TRANSPARENCY IN SALE-DAY STATISTICS.—<br />
<br />
“(A) REQUIREMENT.—The Secretary shall publicly disclose statistical data regarding each lease sale under this subsection, on the day the sale is executed.<br />
<br />
“(B) INCLUDED DATA.—Among data disclosed, the Secretary shall include—<br />
<br />
“(i) the total value of high bids;<br />
<br />
“(ii) the number of tracts offered;<br />
<br />
“(iii) the number of acres offered;<br />
<br />
“(iv) the number of tracts receiving bids;<br />
<br />
“(v) the number of acres receiving bids;<br />
<br />
“(vi) the total number of bids;<br />
<br />
“(vii) the average number of bids per tract;<br />
<br />
“(viii) the total number of bidders participating;<br />
<br />
“(ix) bidding statistics by water depth;<br />
<br />
“(x) the name of the entity that submitted each bid, the amount of the bid, and the tract for which the bid was submitted;<br />
<br />
“(xi) of tracts receiving bids, the number of bids per tract by water depth;<br />
<br />
“(xii) the tract receiving the greatest number of bids;<br />
<br />
“(xiii) the tract receiving the highest bid; and<br />
<br />
“(xiv) any other statistical data that may be disclosed in accordance with this Act.<br />
<br />
“(C) DATA TRANSPARENCY.—The Secretary shall ensure all data regarding lease sales under this subsection is publicly available and easily accessible, free of charge, on the Internet, including for download and aggregation in machine-readable format.”.<br />
<br />
(b) Modernizing Leasing Through Collaboration.—<br />
<br />
(1) IN GENERAL.—Before conducting the first Internet-based lease sale under the amendment made by this section, the Secretary of the Interior shall issue a request for information from each company present for bidding at the ten most recent oil and gas lease sales conducted by the Secretary under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act, in order to provide the bidding public sufficient opportunity to share innovative ideas, methods, and concerns regarding Internet-based leasing.<br />
<br />
(2) INTEGRATION OF INFORMATION.—The Secretary shall review, evaluate, and integrate suggestions and concerns collected under paragraph (1) as the Secretary works to modernize the offshore leasing process through Internet-based leasing options.<br />
<br />
(3) USER WORKSHOP.—The Secretary shall conduct not less than one user workshop with viable bidders prior to conducting an Internet-based lease sale to provide the bidding public with an opportunity to beta test any prototype of an Internet-based leasing platform.<br />
<br />
(c) Deadline For Gulf Of Mexico Lease Sale.—Not later than 18 months after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Interior shall conduct at least one Internet-based lease sale under the amendment made by subsection (a) for leasable acreage in the Gulf of Mexico.<br />
<br />
(d) Evaluating Internet-Based Offshore Leasing.—Not later than 90 days after the third Internet-based lease sale conducted under the amendment made by subsection (a), the Secretary of the Interior shall analyze all such Internet-based lease sales and transmit to Congress a thorough analysis of the sales. The analysis shall include—<br />
<br />
(1) estimates of increases or decreases in such lease sales, compared to sales conducted by non-Internet-based bidding, in—<br />
<br />
(A) the number of bidders;<br />
<br />
(B) the average amount of bids;<br />
<br />
(C) the highest bid; and<br />
<br />
(D) the lowest bid;<br />
<br />
(2) an estimate of the total cost or savings to the Department of the Interior as a result of such sales, compared to sales conducted by non-Internet-based bidding;<br />
<br />
(3) voluntary and anonymous feedback from persons participating in such sales, on the Internet-based leasing process and potential areas for improvement in such sales; and<br />
<br />
(4) an evaluation of the demonstrated or expected effectiveness of different structures for lease sales that may provide an opportunity to better maximize bidder participation, ensure the highest return to the Federal taxpayers, minimize opportunities for fraud or collusion, and ensure the security and integrity of the leasing process.<br />
<br />
Passed the House of Representatives September 6, 2016.<br />
<br />
Attest: karen l. haas, <br />
Clerk.<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/5577/ Link to bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: McCarthy]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=114-HR5312_Networking_and_Information_Technology_Research_and_Development_Modernization_Act&diff=17801114-HR5312 Networking and Information Technology Research and Development Modernization Act2017-04-14T16:15:34Z<p>Suchen-teh: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=114-HR5312 Networking and Information Technology Research and Development Modernization Act<br />
|Proposed in=114<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. LaHood, Darin (R-IL-18)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House - Science, Space, and Technology, Senate - Commerce, Science, and Transportation<br />
|Has bill status=Died<br />
|Has keywords=McCarthy<br />
}}<br />
====Sec. 5====<br />
This bill amends the High-Performance Computing Act of 1991 to rename the National High-Performance Computing program as the Networking and Information Technology Research and Development Program.<br />
<br />
The program, in addition to its current requirements, shall:<br />
*promote increased understanding of the scientific principles of cyber-physical systems and improve methods available for the design, development, and operation of those that are characterized by high reliability, safety, and security;<br />
*conduct or arrange for research and development on human-computer interactions, visualization, and big data, as well as the enhancement of cybersecurity; and<br />
*create a research framework to leverage cyber-physical systems, high capacity and high speed communication networks, and large-scale data analytics to integrate city-scale information technology and physical infrastructures.<br />
<br />
The Office of Science and Technology Policy shall encourage and monitor the efforts of agencies participating in the program to allocate the resources and management attention necessary to ensure that the strategic plan is executed effectively and that program objectives are met.<br />
<br />
Annual reports on the implementation of the program shall, among other things, furnish:<br />
*a list of the senior steering groups and strategic plans that address research areas of emerging importance, and<br />
*a description of the workshops and other activities conducted.<br />
<br />
Each chair of the advisory committee on networking and information technology (currently on high-performance computing) shall meet membership qualifications, and may be a member of the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology.<br />
<br />
Participating federal agencies, working through the National Science and Technology Council and with the assistance of the National Coordination Office (established by this bill), shall develop, and update every five years, a strategic plan for the program.<br />
<br />
The plan shall specify near-term and long-term objectives and how the program will accomplish other specified objectives, including by:<br />
*fostering the transfer of research and development (R&D) results into new technologies and applications for the benefit of society,<br />
*encouraging and supporting mechanisms for interdisciplinary R&D in networking and information technology, and<br />
*promote cyberinfrastructure needs across federally funded large-scale research facilities that produce or will produce large amounts of data that will need to be stored, curated, and made available to the public.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 6====<br />
The bill replaces the National Research and Education Network with a National Coordination Office, which the Office of Science and Technology Policy shall maintain, and which shall give technical and administrative support to participating federal agencies and, as appropriate, the advisory committee.<br />
<br />
The National Coordination Office shall:<br />
*serve as the primary point of contact on federal networking and information technology activities;<br />
*through at least one workshop solicit recommendations from stakeholders during the development of each strategic plan;<br />
*conduct outreach to relevant organizations and the public in order to increase awareness of the program and its benefits, and potential opportunities for collaboration between the participating agencies and the private sector; and<br />
*promote access to and early application of the technologies, innovations, and expertise derived from program activities to agency missions and systems across the federal government and to U.S. industry.<br />
<br />
The operation of the National Coordination Office shall be supported by funds from participating agencies.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 7====<br />
The bill repeals the authorization for a Next Generation Internet program.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 8====<br />
The program shall encourage participating agencies to support large-scale, long-term, interdisciplinary R&D activities in networking and information technology designed to advance the development of fundamental discoveries, and directed toward agency grand challenge mission areas with the potential for significant contributions to national economic competitiveness and other significant societal benefits.<br />
<br />
Such R&D activities shall:<br />
*include projects based on applications selected through a competitive, merit-based process;<br />
*involve collaborations among researchers in institutions of higher education and industry, and may involve nonprofit research institutions and federal laboratories;<br />
*leverage federal investments through collaboration with related state and private sector initiatives; and<br />
*include a plan for fostering the transfer of research discoveries and the results of technology demonstration activities to industry for commercial development.<br />
<br />
Participating agencies may give special consideration to projects that include cost-sharing from nonfederal sources.<br />
<br />
R&D activities may be supported through existing or new interdisciplinary research centers organized to investigate basic research questions and carry out technology demonstration activities.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 9====<br />
The National Coordination Office may conduct workshops and other activities on research areas of emerging importance, which may include grand challenge areas, to help guide program investments and strategic planning in those areas.<br />
<br />
Workshop participants shall:<br />
*develop options for models for R&D partnerships among institutions of higher education, federal laboratories, and industry;<br />
*develop R&D options for specific issues addressed through those partnerships; and<br />
*propose guidelines for assigning intellectual property rights and for transferring research results to the private sector.<br />
<br />
The National Coordination Office shall:<br />
*ensure that workshop participants have knowledge and expertise in the specific issue areas and represent a broad mix of relevant stakeholders; and<br />
*establish senior steering groups and develop focused strategic plans to coordinate and guide activities under the identified research areas.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 10====<br />
The National Science Foundation, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the Department of Energy, the National Institute of Standards and Technology, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Department of Education shall each engage in specified research and development activities in conjunction with the program.<br />
<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
114th CONGRESS<br />
2d Session<br />
H. R. 5312<br />
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES<br />
June 14, 2016<br />
Received; read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation<br />
<br />
AN ACT<br />
To amend the High-Performance Computing Act of 1991 to authorize activities for support of networking and information technology research, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.<br />
<br />
This Act may be cited as the “Networking and Information Technology Research and Development Modernization Act of 2016”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 2. PURPOSES.<br />
<br />
Section 3 of the High-Performance Computing Act of 1991 (15 U.S.C. 5502) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking “high-performance computing” and inserting “networking and information technology”;<br />
<br />
(2) in paragraph (1)—<br />
<br />
(A) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking “expanding Federal support for research, development, and application of high-performance computing” and inserting “supporting Federal research, development, and application of networking and information technology”;<br />
<br />
(B) in subparagraph (A), by striking “high-performance computing” both places it appears and inserting “networking and information technology”;<br />
<br />
(C) by striking subparagraphs (C) and (D);<br />
<br />
(D) by inserting after subparagraph (B) the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(C) stimulate research on and promote more rapid development of high-end computing systems software and applications software;”;<br />
<br />
(E) by redesignating subparagraphs (E) through (H) as subparagraphs (D) through (G), respectively;<br />
<br />
(F) in subparagraph (D), as so redesignated, by inserting “high-end” after “the development of”;<br />
<br />
(G) in subparagraphs (E) and (F), as so redesignated, by striking “high-performance computing” each place it appears and inserting “networking and information technology”; and<br />
<br />
(H) in subparagraph (G), as so redesignated, by striking “high-performance” and inserting “high-end”; and<br />
<br />
(3) in paragraph (2)—<br />
<br />
(A) by striking “high-performance computing and” and inserting “networking and information technology and”; and<br />
<br />
(B) by striking “high-performance computing network” and inserting “networking and information technology”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.<br />
<br />
Section 4 of the High-Performance Computing Act of 1991 (15 U.S.C. 5503) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) by striking paragraphs (3) and (5);<br />
<br />
(2) by redesignating paragraphs (1), (2), (4), (6), and (7) as paragraphs (2), (3), (5), (7), and (8), respectively;<br />
<br />
(3) by inserting before paragraph (2), as so redesignated, the following new paragraph:<br />
<br />
“(1) ‘cyber-physical systems’ means physical or engineered systems whose networking and information technology functions and physical elements are deeply integrated and are actively connected to the physical world through sensors, actuators, or other means to perform monitoring and control functions;”;<br />
<br />
(4) in paragraph (3), as so redesignated, by striking “high-performance computing” and inserting “networking and information technology”;<br />
<br />
(5) by inserting after paragraph (3), as so redesignated, the following new paragraph:<br />
<br />
“(4) ‘high-end computing’ means the most advanced and capable computing systems, including their hardware, storage, networking and software, encompassing both massive computational capability and large-scale data analytics;”;<br />
<br />
(6) by inserting after paragraph (5), as so redesignated, the following new paragraph:<br />
<br />
“(6) ‘networking and information technology’ means high-end computing, communications, and information technologies, high-capacity and high-speed networks, special purpose and experimental systems, high-end computing systems software and applications software, and the management of large data sets;”; and<br />
<br />
(7) in paragraph (7), as so redesignated, by striking “National High-Performance Computing Program” and inserting “Networking and Information Technology Research and Development Program”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 4. TITLE I HEADING.<br />
<br />
The heading of title I of such Act (15 U.S.C. 5511 et seq.) is amended by striking “HIGH-PERFORMANCE COMPUTING” and inserting “NETWORKING AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 5. NETWORKING AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM.<br />
<br />
Section 101 of the High-Performance Computing Act of 1991 (15 U.S.C. 5511) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) in the section heading, by striking “NATIONAL HIGH-PERFORMANCE COMPUTING PROGRAM” and inserting “NETWORKING AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM”;<br />
<br />
(2) in subsection (a)—<br />
<br />
(A) in the subsection heading, by striking “National High-Performance Computing Program” and inserting “Networking And Information Technology Research And Development”;<br />
<br />
(B) in paragraph (1)—<br />
<br />
(i) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking “National High-Performance Computing Program” and inserting “Networking and Information Technology Research and Development Program”;<br />
<br />
(ii) in subparagraph (A), by striking “high-performance computing, including networking” and inserting “networking and information technology”;<br />
<br />
(iii) in subparagraphs (B) and (G), by striking “high-performance” each place it appears and inserting “high-end”;<br />
<br />
(iv) in subparagraph (C), by striking “high-performance computing and networking” and inserting “high-end computing, distributed, and networking”;<br />
<br />
(v) by amending subparagraph (D) to read as follows:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(D) provide for efforts to increase software security and reliability;”;<br />
<br />
(vi) in subparagraph (H)—<br />
<br />
(I) by inserting “support and guidance” after “provide”; and<br />
<br />
(II) by striking “and” after the semicolon;<br />
<br />
(vii) in subparagraph (I)—<br />
<br />
(I) by striking “improving the security” and inserting “improving the security, reliability, and resilience”; and<br />
<br />
(II) by striking the period at the end and inserting a semicolon; and<br />
<br />
(viii) by adding at the end the following new subparagraphs:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(J) provide for increased understanding of the scientific principles of cyber-physical systems and improve the methods available for the design, development, and operation of cyber-physical systems that are characterized by high reliability, safety, and security;<br />
<br />
“(K) provide for research and development on human-computer interactions, visualization, and big data;<br />
<br />
“(L) provide for research and development on the enhancement of cybersecurity; and<br />
<br />
“(M) provide for a research framework to leverage cyber-physical systems, high capacity and high speed communication networks, and large-scale data analytics to integrate city-scale information technology and physical infrastructures.”;<br />
<br />
(C) in paragraph (2)—<br />
<br />
(i) by amending subparagraph (A) to read as follows:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(A) establish the goals and priorities for Federal networking and information technology research, development, education, and other activities;”;<br />
<br />
(ii) by amending subparagraph (C) to read as follows:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(C) provide for interagency coordination of Federal networking and information technology research, development, education, and other activities undertaken pursuant to the Program;”;<br />
<br />
(iii) by amending subparagraph (E) to read as follows:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(E) encourage and monitor the efforts of the agencies participating in the Program to allocate the level of resources and management attention necessary to ensure that the strategic plan under subsection (e) is developed and executed effectively and that the objectives of the Program are met; and”; and<br />
<br />
(iv) in subparagraph (F), by striking “high-performance” and inserting “high-end”; and<br />
<br />
(D) in paragraph (3)—<br />
<br />
(i) by redesignating subparagraphs (B), (C), (D), and (E) as subparagraphs (E), (F), (G), and (J), respectively;<br />
<br />
(ii) by inserting after subparagraph (A) the following new subparagraphs:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(B) provide, as appropriate, a list of the senior steering groups and strategic plans that are planned or underway as addressed under section 104;<br />
<br />
“(C) provide a description of workshops and other activities conducted under section 104, including participants and findings;<br />
<br />
“(D) provide a detailed description of the nature and scope of research infrastructure designated as such under the Program;”;<br />
<br />
(iii) in subparagraph (E), as so redesignated—<br />
<br />
(I) by redesignating clauses (vii) through (xi) as clauses (viii) through (xii), respectively; and<br />
<br />
(II) by inserting after clause (vi) the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(vii) the Department of Homeland Security;”;<br />
<br />
(iv) in subparagraph (F), as so redesignated—<br />
<br />
(I) by striking “is submitted,” and inserting “is submitted, the levels for the previous fiscal year,”; and<br />
<br />
(II) by striking “each Program Component Area;” and inserting “each Program Component Area and research area supported in accordance with section 103;”;<br />
<br />
(v) by amending subparagraph (G), as so redesignated, to read as follows:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(G) describe the levels of Federal funding for each agency and department participating in the Program, and for each Program Component Area, for the fiscal year during which such report is submitted, the levels for the previous fiscal year, and the levels proposed for the fiscal year with respect to which the budget submission applies;”; and<br />
<br />
(vi) by inserting after subparagraph (G), as so redesignated, the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(H) include a description of how the objectives for each Program Component Area, and the objectives for activities that involve multiple Program Component Areas, relate to the objectives of the Program identified in the strategic plan required under subsection (e);<br />
<br />
“(I) include—<br />
<br />
“(i) a description of the funding required by the National Coordination Office to perform the functions specified under section 102(b) for the current fiscal year;<br />
<br />
“(ii) a description of the estimated funding required by such Office to perform the functions specified under section 102(b) for the next fiscal year; and<br />
<br />
“(iii) the amount of funding provided for such Office for the current fiscal year by each agency participating in the Program; and”;<br />
<br />
(3) in subsection (b)—<br />
<br />
(A) in paragraph (1), in the matter preceding subparagraph (A)—<br />
<br />
(i) by striking “high-performance computing” both places it appears and inserting “networking and information technology”; and<br />
<br />
(ii) after the first sentence, by inserting the following: “Each chair of the advisory committee shall meet the qualifications of committee membership and may be a member of the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology.”;<br />
<br />
(B) in paragraph (1)(D), by striking “high-performance computing, networking technology, and related software” and inserting “networking and information technology”; and<br />
<br />
(C) in paragraph (2)—<br />
<br />
(i) in the second sentence, by striking “2” and inserting “3”;<br />
<br />
(ii) by striking “Committee on Science and Technology” and inserting “Committee on Science, Space, and Technology”; and<br />
<br />
(iii) by striking “The first report shall be due within 1 year after the date of enactment of the America COMPETES Act.”;<br />
<br />
(4) in subsection (c)(1)(A), by striking “high-performance computing” and inserting “networking and information technology”; and<br />
<br />
(5) by adding at the end the following new subsections:<br />
<br />
“(d) Periodic Reviews.—The agencies identified in subsection (a)(3)(B) shall—<br />
<br />
“(1) periodically assess and update, as appropriate, the contents, scope, and funding levels of the Program Component Areas and work through the National Science and Technology Council and with the assistance of the National Coordination Office described under section 102 to restructure the Program when warranted, taking into consideration any relevant recommendations of the advisory committee established under subsection (b); and<br />
<br />
“(2) working through the National Science and Technology Council and with the assistance of the National Coordination Office described under section 102, ensure that the Program includes large-scale, long-term, interdisciplinary research and development activities, including activities described in section 103.<br />
<br />
“(e) Strategic Plan.—<br />
<br />
“(1) IN GENERAL.—The agencies identified in subsection (a)(3)(B), working through the National Science and Technology Council and with the assistance of the National Coordination Office described under section 102, shall develop, within 12 months after the date of enactment of the Networking and Information Technology Research and Development Modernization Act of 2016, and update every 5 years thereafter, a 5-year strategic plan for the Program.<br />
<br />
“(2) CONTENTS.—The strategic plan shall specify near-term and long-term cross-cutting objectives for the Program, the anticipated time frame for achieving the near-term objectives, the metrics to be used for assessing progress toward the objectives, and how the Program will—<br />
<br />
“(A) address long-term challenges of national importance for which solutions require large-scale, long-term, interdisciplinary research and development;<br />
<br />
“(B) encourage and support mechanisms for interdisciplinary research and development in networking and information technology and for Grand Challenges, including through collaborations across agencies, across Program Component Areas, with industry, with Federal laboratories (as defined in section 4 of the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980 (15 U.S.C. 3703)), and with international organizations;<br />
<br />
“(C) foster the transfer of research and development results into new technologies and applications in the national interest, including through cooperation and collaborations with networking and information technology research, development, and technology transition initiatives supported by the States;<br />
<br />
“(D) provide for cyberinfrastructure needs, as appropriate, across federally funded large-scale research facilities that produce or will produce large amounts of data that will need to be stored, curated, and made publicly available;<br />
<br />
“(E) strengthen all levels of networking and information technology education and training programs to ensure an adequate, well-trained workforce; and<br />
<br />
“(F) attract individuals identified in sections 33 and 34 of the Science and Engineering Equal Opportunities Act (42 U.S.C. 1885a and 1885b) to networking and information technology fields.<br />
<br />
“(3) RECOMMENDATIONS.—The entities involved in developing the strategic plan under paragraph (1) shall take into consideration the recommendations—<br />
<br />
“(A) of the advisory committee established under subsection (b);<br />
<br />
“(B) of the Committee on Science and relevant subcommittees of the National Science and Technology Council; and<br />
<br />
“(C) of the stakeholders whose input was solicited by the National Coordination Office, as required under section 102(b)(3).<br />
<br />
“(4) REPORT TO CONGRESS.—The Director of the National Coordination Office shall transmit the strategic plan required under paragraph (1) to the advisory committee, the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives, and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate.”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 6. NATIONAL COORDINATION OFFICE.<br />
<br />
Section 102 of such Act (15 U.S.C. 5512) is amended to read as follows:<br />
<br />
“SEC. 102. NATIONAL COORDINATION OFFICE.<br />
<br />
“(a) Office.—The Director shall maintain a National Coordination Office with a Director and full-time staff.<br />
<br />
“(b) Functions.—The National Coordination Office shall—<br />
<br />
“(1) provide technical and administrative support to—<br />
<br />
“(A) the agencies participating in planning and implementing the Program, including such support as needed in the development of the strategic plan under section 101(e); and<br />
<br />
“(B) the advisory committee established under section 101(b), as appropriate;<br />
<br />
“(2) serve as the primary point of contact on Federal networking and information technology activities for government organizations, academia, industry, professional societies, State computing and networking technology programs, interested citizen groups, and others to exchange technical and programmatic information;<br />
<br />
“(3) solicit input and recommendations from a wide range of stakeholders during the development of each strategic plan required under section 101(e) and the scope of the Program Component Areas through the convening of at least one workshop with invitees from academia, industry, Federal laboratories, and other relevant organizations and institutions;<br />
<br />
“(4) conduct and increase outreach, including to academia, industry, other relevant organizations and institutions, and the public, in order to increase awareness of the Program and the benefits of the Program and to increase potential opportunities for collaboration between agencies participating in the Program and the private sector; and<br />
<br />
“(5) promote access to and early application of the technologies, innovations, and expertise derived from Program activities to agency missions and systems across the Federal Government and to United States industry.<br />
<br />
“(c) Source Of Funding.—<br />
<br />
“(1) IN GENERAL.—The operation of the National Coordination Office shall be supported by funds from each agency participating in the Program, subject to the availability of appropriations for such purpose.<br />
<br />
“(2) SPECIFICATIONS.—The portion of the total budget of such Office that is authorized to be provided by each agency for each fiscal year shall be in the same proportion as each such agency’s share of the total budget for the Program for the previous fiscal year, as specified in the report required under section 101(a)(3).<br />
<br />
“(3) WAIVER.—As appropriate, the Director may consider and approve a reduction or waiver of an agency contribution requirement under paragraph (2).”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 7. NEXT GENERATION INTERNET.<br />
<br />
Section 103 of such Act (15 U.S.C. 5513) is repealed.<br />
<br />
SEC. 8. GRAND CHALLENGES IN AREAS OF NATIONAL IMPORTANCE.<br />
<br />
Title I of such Act (15 U.S.C. 5511 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following new section:<br />
<br />
“SEC. 103. GRAND CHALLENGES IN AREAS OF NATIONAL IMPORTANCE.<br />
<br />
“(a) In General.—The Program shall encourage agencies identified in section 101(a)(3)(E) to support large-scale, long-term, interdisciplinary research and development activities in networking and information technology directed toward agency mission areas that have the potential for significant contributions to national economic competitiveness and for other significant societal benefits. Such activities, ranging from basic research to the demonstration of technical solutions, shall be designed to advance the development of fundamental discoveries. The advisory committee established under section 101(b) shall make recommendations to the Program for candidate research and development areas for support under this section.<br />
<br />
“(b) Characteristics.—<br />
<br />
“(1) IN GENERAL.—Research and development activities under this section shall—<br />
<br />
“(A) include projects selected on the basis of applications for support through a competitive, merit-based process;<br />
<br />
“(B) involve collaborations among researchers in institutions of higher education and industry, and may involve nonprofit research institutions and Federal laboratories, as appropriate;<br />
<br />
“(C) leverage Federal investments through collaboration with related State and private sector initiatives; and<br />
<br />
“(D) include a plan for fostering the transfer of research discoveries and the results of technology demonstration activities, including from institutions of higher education and Federal laboratories, to industry for commercial development.<br />
<br />
“(2) COST-SHARING.—In selecting applications for support, the agencies may give special consideration to projects that include cost sharing from non-Federal sources.<br />
<br />
“(3) AGENCY COLLABORATION.—If two or more agencies identified in section 101(a)(3)(E), or other appropriate agencies, are working on large-scale networking and information technology research and development activities in the same area of national importance, then such agencies shall strive to collaborate through joint solicitation and selection of applications for support and subsequent funding of projects.<br />
<br />
“(4) INTERDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH CENTERS.—Research and development activities under this section may be supported through interdisciplinary research centers that are organized to investigate basic research questions and carry out technology demonstration activities in areas described in subsection (a). Research may be carried out through existing interdisciplinary centers.”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 9. WORKSHOPS AND SENIOR STEERING GROUPS.<br />
<br />
Title I of such Act (15 U.S.C. 5511 et seq.) is amended further by adding after section 103, as added by section 8 of this Act, the following new section:<br />
<br />
“SEC. 104. ADDRESSING EMERGING ISSUES.<br />
<br />
“(a) In General.—In order to address emerging issues, the Director of the National Coordination Office may conduct workshops and other activities on research areas of emerging importance, which may include the grand challenge areas identified under section 103, with participants from institutions of higher education, Federal laboratories, and industry, in order to help guide Program investments and strategic planning in those areas, including areas identified in subsection (b).<br />
<br />
“(b) Focus Areas.—In selecting research areas under subsection (a), the Director of the National Coordination Office shall consider the following topics:<br />
<br />
“(1) Data analytics to identify the current and future state of performing inference, prediction, and other forms of analysis of data, and methods for the collection, management, preservation, and use of data.<br />
<br />
“(2) The current and future state of the science, engineering, policy, and social understanding of privacy protection.<br />
<br />
“(3) The current and future state of fundamental research on the systems and science of the interplay of people and computing as well as the coordination and support being undertaken in areas such as social computing, human-robot interaction, privacy, and health-related aspects in human-computer systems.<br />
<br />
“(c) Functions.—The participants in the workshops shall, as appropriate—<br />
<br />
“(1) develop options for models for research and development partnerships among institutions of higher education, Federal laboratories, and industry, including mechanisms for the support of research and development carried out under these partnerships;<br />
<br />
“(2) develop options for research and development for the specific issue areas that would be addressed through such partnerships;<br />
<br />
“(3) propose guidelines for assigning intellectual property rights and for the transfer of research results to the private sector; and<br />
<br />
“(4) make recommendations for how Federal agencies participating in the Program can help support research and development partnerships for the specific issue areas.<br />
<br />
“(d) Participants.—The Director of the National Coordination Office shall ensure that the participants in the workshops—<br />
<br />
“(1) are individuals with knowledge and expertise in the specific issue areas; and<br />
<br />
“(2) represent a broad mix of relevant stakeholders, including academic and industry researchers and, as appropriate, Federal agencies.<br />
<br />
“(e) Senior Steering Groups And Strategic Plans.—As appropriate, the Director of the National Coordination Office shall establish senior steering groups and develop focused strategic plans to coordinate and guide activities under the research areas identified under this section, taking into consideration the findings and recommendations from any workshops carried out on those research topics.”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 10. NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION ACTIVITIES.<br />
<br />
Section 201 of such Act (15 U.S.C. 5521) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) in subsection (a)—<br />
<br />
(A) in paragraph (1)—<br />
<br />
(i) by inserting “high-end” after “National Science Foundation shall provide”; and<br />
<br />
(ii) by striking “high-performance computing” and all that follows through “networking;” and inserting “networking and information technology; and”;<br />
<br />
(B) by striking paragraphs (2) through (4); and<br />
<br />
(C) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following new paragraph:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(2) the National Science Foundation shall use its existing programs, in collaboration with other agencies, as appropriate, to improve the teaching and learning of networking and information technology at all levels of education and to increase participation in networking and information technology fields, including by individuals identified in sections 33 and 34 of the Science and Engineering Equal Opportunities Act (42 U.S.C. 1885a and 1885b).”; and<br />
<br />
(2) by striking subsection (b).<br />
<br />
SEC. 11. NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION ACTIVITIES.<br />
<br />
Section 202 of such Act (15 U.S.C. 5522) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) by striking subsection (b);<br />
<br />
(2) by striking “(a) General Responsibilities.—”; and<br />
<br />
(3) by striking “high-performance computing” and inserting “networking and information technology”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 12. DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY ACTIVITIES.<br />
<br />
Section 203 of such Act (15 U.S.C. 5523) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) by striking subsection (b);<br />
<br />
(2) by striking “(a) General Responsibilities.—”;<br />
<br />
(3) in paragraph (1), by striking “high-performance computing and networking” and inserting “networking and information technology”; and<br />
<br />
(4) in paragraph (2)(A), by striking “high-performance” and inserting “high-end”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 13. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE ACTIVITIES.<br />
<br />
Section 204 of such Act (15 U.S.C. 5524) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) in subsection (a)(1)—<br />
<br />
(A) in subparagraph (A), by striking “high-performance computing systems and networks” and inserting “networking and information technology systems and capabilities”;<br />
<br />
(B) in subparagraph (B), by striking “interoperability of high-performance computing systems in networks and for common user interfaces to systems” and inserting “interoperability and usability of networking and information technology systems”; and<br />
<br />
(C) in subparagraph (C), by striking “high-performance computing” and inserting “networking and information technology”;<br />
<br />
(2) in subsection (b)—<br />
<br />
(A) in the heading, by striking “High-Performance Computing And Network” and inserting “Networking And Information Technology”;<br />
<br />
(B) by striking “Pursuant to the Computer Security Act of 1987 (Public Law 100–235; 101 Stat. 1724), the” and inserting “The”; and<br />
<br />
(C) by striking “sensitive”; and<br />
<br />
(3) by striking subsections (c) and (d).<br />
<br />
SEC. 14. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY ACTIVITIES.<br />
<br />
Section 205 of such Act (15 U.S.C. 5525) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) by striking subsection (b);<br />
<br />
(2) by striking “(a) General Responsibilities.—”;<br />
<br />
(3) by striking “basic and applied”;<br />
<br />
(4) by striking “computational” and inserting “networking and information technology”; and<br />
<br />
(5) by inserting “All software and code, along with any subsequent updates to the software and code, developed by the Environmental Protection Agency under the Program and used in conducting scientific research shall be made publically available. In cases where the underlying software or code is proprietary or contains confidential business information, the Agency shall disclose only the name and vendor of the software and code used for all proprietary or confidential business information portions of the software or code. The Environmental Protection Agency shall ensure that the research conducted under the Program does not duplicate the scope or aims of similar research and initiatives at other Federal agencies. No Environmental Protection Agency funds shall be used towards research that duplicates the scope or aims of similar research and initiatives at other Federal agencies.” after “dynamics models.”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 15. ROLE OF THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION.<br />
<br />
Section 206 of such Act (15 U.S.C. 5526) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) by striking subsection (b);<br />
<br />
(2) by striking “(a) General Responsibilities.—”; and<br />
<br />
(3) by striking “to conduct basic” and all that follows through “software capabilities” and inserting “to support programs and activities to improve the teaching and learning of networking and information technology fields and contribute to the development of a skilled networking and information technology workforce”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 16. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS.<br />
<br />
Section 207(b) of such Act (15 U.S.C. 5527(b)) is amended by striking “high-performance computing” and inserting “networking and information technology”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 17. REPEAL.<br />
<br />
Section 208 of such Act (15 U.S.C. 5528) is repealed.<br />
<br />
SEC. 18. ADDITIONAL REPEAL.<br />
<br />
Section 4 of the Department of Energy High-End Computing Revitalization Act of 2004 (15 U.S.C. 5543) is repealed.<br />
<br />
Passed the House of Representatives June 13, 2016.<br />
<br />
Attest: karen l. haas, <br />
Clerk.<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/5312/ Link to bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: McCarthy]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=114-HR5312_Networking_and_Information_Technology_Research_and_Development_Modernization_Act&diff=17800114-HR5312 Networking and Information Technology Research and Development Modernization Act2017-04-14T16:14:45Z<p>Suchen-teh: Created page with "{{Legislation |Has title=114-HR5312 Networking and Information Technology Research and Development Modernization Act |Proposed in=114 |Sponsored by=Rep. LaHood, Darin (R-IL-18..."</p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=114-HR5312 Networking and Information Technology Research and Development Modernization Act<br />
|Proposed in=114<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. LaHood, Darin (R-IL-18)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House - Science, Space, and Technology, Senate - Commerce, Science, and Transportation<br />
|Has bill status=Died<br />
|Has keywords=McCarthy<br />
}}<br />
====Sec. 5====<br />
This bill amends the High-Performance Computing Act of 1991 to rename the National High-Performance Computing program as the Networking and Information Technology Research and Development Program.<br />
<br />
The program, in addition to its current requirements, shall:<br />
*promote increased understanding of the scientific principles of cyber-physical systems and improve methods available for the design, development, and operation of those that are characterized by high reliability, safety, and security;<br />
*conduct or arrange for research and development on human-computer interactions, visualization, and big data, as well as the enhancement of cybersecurity; and<br />
*create a research framework to leverage cyber-physical systems, high capacity and high speed communication networks, and large-scale data analytics to integrate city-scale information technology and physical infrastructures.<br />
<br />
The Office of Science and Technology Policy shall encourage and monitor the efforts of agencies participating in the program to allocate the resources and management attention necessary to ensure that the strategic plan is executed effectively and that program objectives are met.<br />
<br />
Annual reports on the implementation of the program shall, among other things, furnish:<br />
*a list of the senior steering groups and strategic plans that address research areas of emerging importance, and<br />
*a description of the workshops and other activities conducted.<br />
<br />
Each chair of the advisory committee on networking and information technology (currently on high-performance computing) shall meet membership qualifications, and may be a member of the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology.<br />
<br />
Participating federal agencies, working through the National Science and Technology Council and with the assistance of the National Coordination Office (established by this bill), shall develop, and update every five years, a strategic plan for the program.<br />
<br />
The plan shall specify near-term and long-term objectives and how the program will accomplish other specified objectives, including by:<br />
*fostering the transfer of research and development (R&D) results into new technologies and applications for the benefit of society,<br />
*encouraging and supporting mechanisms for interdisciplinary R&D in networking and information technology, and<br />
*promote cyberinfrastructure needs across federally funded large-scale research facilities that produce or will produce large amounts of data that will need to be stored, curated, and made available to the public.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 6====<br />
The bill replaces the National Research and Education Network with a National Coordination Office, which the Office of Science and Technology Policy shall maintain, and which shall give technical and administrative support to participating federal agencies and, as appropriate, the advisory committee.<br />
<br />
The National Coordination Office shall:<br />
*serve as the primary point of contact on federal networking and information technology activities;<br />
*through at least one workshop solicit recommendations from stakeholders during the development of each strategic plan;<br />
*conduct outreach to relevant organizations and the public in order to increase awareness of the program and its benefits, and potential opportunities for collaboration between the participating agencies and the private sector; and<br />
*promote access to and early application of the technologies, innovations, and expertise derived from program activities to agency missions and systems across the federal government and to U.S. industry.<br />
<br />
The operation of the National Coordination Office shall be supported by funds from participating agencies.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 7====<br />
The bill repeals the authorization for a Next Generation Internet program.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 8====<br />
The program shall encourage participating agencies to support large-scale, long-term, interdisciplinary R&D activities in networking and information technology designed to advance the development of fundamental discoveries, and directed toward agency grand challenge mission areas with the potential for significant contributions to national economic competitiveness and other significant societal benefits.<br />
<br />
Such R&D activities shall:<br />
*include projects based on applications selected through a competitive, merit-based process;<br />
*involve collaborations among researchers in institutions of higher education and industry, and may involve nonprofit research institutions and federal laboratories;<br />
*leverage federal investments through collaboration with related state and private sector initiatives; and<br />
*include a plan for fostering the transfer of research discoveries and the results of technology demonstration activities to industry for commercial development.<br />
<br />
Participating agencies may give special consideration to projects that include cost-sharing from nonfederal sources.<br />
<br />
R&D activities may be supported through existing or new interdisciplinary research centers organized to investigate basic research questions and carry out technology demonstration activities.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 9====<br />
The National Coordination Office may conduct workshops and other activities on research areas of emerging importance, which may include grand challenge areas, to help guide program investments and strategic planning in those areas.<br />
<br />
Workshop participants shall:<br />
*develop options for models for R&D partnerships among institutions of higher education, federal laboratories, and industry;<br />
*develop R&D options for specific issues addressed through those partnerships; and<br />
*propose guidelines for assigning intellectual property rights and for transferring research results to the private sector.<br />
<br />
The National Coordination Office shall:<br />
*ensure that workshop participants have knowledge and expertise in the specific issue areas and represent a broad mix of relevant stakeholders; and<br />
*establish senior steering groups and develop focused strategic plans to coordinate and guide activities under the identified research areas.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 10====<br />
The National Science Foundation, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the Department of Energy, the National Institute of Standards and Technology, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Department of Education shall each engage in specified research and development activities in conjunction with the program.<br />
<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
114th CONGRESS<br />
2d Session<br />
H. R. 5312<br />
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES<br />
June 14, 2016<br />
Received; read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation<br />
<br />
AN ACT<br />
To amend the High-Performance Computing Act of 1991 to authorize activities for support of networking and information technology research, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.<br />
<br />
This Act may be cited as the “Networking and Information Technology Research and Development Modernization Act of 2016”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 2. PURPOSES.<br />
<br />
Section 3 of the High-Performance Computing Act of 1991 (15 U.S.C. 5502) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking “high-performance computing” and inserting “networking and information technology”;<br />
<br />
(2) in paragraph (1)—<br />
<br />
(A) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking “expanding Federal support for research, development, and application of high-performance computing” and inserting “supporting Federal research, development, and application of networking and information technology”;<br />
<br />
(B) in subparagraph (A), by striking “high-performance computing” both places it appears and inserting “networking and information technology”;<br />
<br />
(C) by striking subparagraphs (C) and (D);<br />
<br />
(D) by inserting after subparagraph (B) the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(C) stimulate research on and promote more rapid development of high-end computing systems software and applications software;”;<br />
<br />
(E) by redesignating subparagraphs (E) through (H) as subparagraphs (D) through (G), respectively;<br />
<br />
(F) in subparagraph (D), as so redesignated, by inserting “high-end” after “the development of”;<br />
<br />
(G) in subparagraphs (E) and (F), as so redesignated, by striking “high-performance computing” each place it appears and inserting “networking and information technology”; and<br />
<br />
(H) in subparagraph (G), as so redesignated, by striking “high-performance” and inserting “high-end”; and<br />
<br />
(3) in paragraph (2)—<br />
<br />
(A) by striking “high-performance computing and” and inserting “networking and information technology and”; and<br />
<br />
(B) by striking “high-performance computing network” and inserting “networking and information technology”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.<br />
<br />
Section 4 of the High-Performance Computing Act of 1991 (15 U.S.C. 5503) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) by striking paragraphs (3) and (5);<br />
<br />
(2) by redesignating paragraphs (1), (2), (4), (6), and (7) as paragraphs (2), (3), (5), (7), and (8), respectively;<br />
<br />
(3) by inserting before paragraph (2), as so redesignated, the following new paragraph:<br />
<br />
“(1) ‘cyber-physical systems’ means physical or engineered systems whose networking and information technology functions and physical elements are deeply integrated and are actively connected to the physical world through sensors, actuators, or other means to perform monitoring and control functions;”;<br />
<br />
(4) in paragraph (3), as so redesignated, by striking “high-performance computing” and inserting “networking and information technology”;<br />
<br />
(5) by inserting after paragraph (3), as so redesignated, the following new paragraph:<br />
<br />
“(4) ‘high-end computing’ means the most advanced and capable computing systems, including their hardware, storage, networking and software, encompassing both massive computational capability and large-scale data analytics;”;<br />
<br />
(6) by inserting after paragraph (5), as so redesignated, the following new paragraph:<br />
<br />
“(6) ‘networking and information technology’ means high-end computing, communications, and information technologies, high-capacity and high-speed networks, special purpose and experimental systems, high-end computing systems software and applications software, and the management of large data sets;”; and<br />
<br />
(7) in paragraph (7), as so redesignated, by striking “National High-Performance Computing Program” and inserting “Networking and Information Technology Research and Development Program”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 4. TITLE I HEADING.<br />
<br />
The heading of title I of such Act (15 U.S.C. 5511 et seq.) is amended by striking “HIGH-PERFORMANCE COMPUTING” and inserting “NETWORKING AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 5. NETWORKING AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM.<br />
<br />
Section 101 of the High-Performance Computing Act of 1991 (15 U.S.C. 5511) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) in the section heading, by striking “NATIONAL HIGH-PERFORMANCE COMPUTING PROGRAM” and inserting “NETWORKING AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM”;<br />
<br />
(2) in subsection (a)—<br />
<br />
(A) in the subsection heading, by striking “National High-Performance Computing Program” and inserting “Networking And Information Technology Research And Development”;<br />
<br />
(B) in paragraph (1)—<br />
<br />
(i) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking “National High-Performance Computing Program” and inserting “Networking and Information Technology Research and Development Program”;<br />
<br />
(ii) in subparagraph (A), by striking “high-performance computing, including networking” and inserting “networking and information technology”;<br />
<br />
(iii) in subparagraphs (B) and (G), by striking “high-performance” each place it appears and inserting “high-end”;<br />
<br />
(iv) in subparagraph (C), by striking “high-performance computing and networking” and inserting “high-end computing, distributed, and networking”;<br />
<br />
(v) by amending subparagraph (D) to read as follows:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(D) provide for efforts to increase software security and reliability;”;<br />
<br />
(vi) in subparagraph (H)—<br />
<br />
(I) by inserting “support and guidance” after “provide”; and<br />
<br />
(II) by striking “and” after the semicolon;<br />
<br />
(vii) in subparagraph (I)—<br />
<br />
(I) by striking “improving the security” and inserting “improving the security, reliability, and resilience”; and<br />
<br />
(II) by striking the period at the end and inserting a semicolon; and<br />
<br />
(viii) by adding at the end the following new subparagraphs:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(J) provide for increased understanding of the scientific principles of cyber-physical systems and improve the methods available for the design, development, and operation of cyber-physical systems that are characterized by high reliability, safety, and security;<br />
<br />
“(K) provide for research and development on human-computer interactions, visualization, and big data;<br />
<br />
“(L) provide for research and development on the enhancement of cybersecurity; and<br />
<br />
“(M) provide for a research framework to leverage cyber-physical systems, high capacity and high speed communication networks, and large-scale data analytics to integrate city-scale information technology and physical infrastructures.”;<br />
<br />
(C) in paragraph (2)—<br />
<br />
(i) by amending subparagraph (A) to read as follows:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(A) establish the goals and priorities for Federal networking and information technology research, development, education, and other activities;”;<br />
<br />
(ii) by amending subparagraph (C) to read as follows:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(C) provide for interagency coordination of Federal networking and information technology research, development, education, and other activities undertaken pursuant to the Program;”;<br />
<br />
(iii) by amending subparagraph (E) to read as follows:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(E) encourage and monitor the efforts of the agencies participating in the Program to allocate the level of resources and management attention necessary to ensure that the strategic plan under subsection (e) is developed and executed effectively and that the objectives of the Program are met; and”; and<br />
<br />
(iv) in subparagraph (F), by striking “high-performance” and inserting “high-end”; and<br />
<br />
(D) in paragraph (3)—<br />
<br />
(i) by redesignating subparagraphs (B), (C), (D), and (E) as subparagraphs (E), (F), (G), and (J), respectively;<br />
<br />
(ii) by inserting after subparagraph (A) the following new subparagraphs:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(B) provide, as appropriate, a list of the senior steering groups and strategic plans that are planned or underway as addressed under section 104;<br />
<br />
“(C) provide a description of workshops and other activities conducted under section 104, including participants and findings;<br />
<br />
“(D) provide a detailed description of the nature and scope of research infrastructure designated as such under the Program;”;<br />
<br />
(iii) in subparagraph (E), as so redesignated—<br />
<br />
(I) by redesignating clauses (vii) through (xi) as clauses (viii) through (xii), respectively; and<br />
<br />
(II) by inserting after clause (vi) the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(vii) the Department of Homeland Security;”;<br />
<br />
(iv) in subparagraph (F), as so redesignated—<br />
<br />
(I) by striking “is submitted,” and inserting “is submitted, the levels for the previous fiscal year,”; and<br />
<br />
(II) by striking “each Program Component Area;” and inserting “each Program Component Area and research area supported in accordance with section 103;”;<br />
<br />
(v) by amending subparagraph (G), as so redesignated, to read as follows:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(G) describe the levels of Federal funding for each agency and department participating in the Program, and for each Program Component Area, for the fiscal year during which such report is submitted, the levels for the previous fiscal year, and the levels proposed for the fiscal year with respect to which the budget submission applies;”; and<br />
<br />
(vi) by inserting after subparagraph (G), as so redesignated, the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(H) include a description of how the objectives for each Program Component Area, and the objectives for activities that involve multiple Program Component Areas, relate to the objectives of the Program identified in the strategic plan required under subsection (e);<br />
<br />
“(I) include—<br />
<br />
“(i) a description of the funding required by the National Coordination Office to perform the functions specified under section 102(b) for the current fiscal year;<br />
<br />
“(ii) a description of the estimated funding required by such Office to perform the functions specified under section 102(b) for the next fiscal year; and<br />
<br />
“(iii) the amount of funding provided for such Office for the current fiscal year by each agency participating in the Program; and”;<br />
<br />
(3) in subsection (b)—<br />
<br />
(A) in paragraph (1), in the matter preceding subparagraph (A)—<br />
<br />
(i) by striking “high-performance computing” both places it appears and inserting “networking and information technology”; and<br />
<br />
(ii) after the first sentence, by inserting the following: “Each chair of the advisory committee shall meet the qualifications of committee membership and may be a member of the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology.”;<br />
<br />
(B) in paragraph (1)(D), by striking “high-performance computing, networking technology, and related software” and inserting “networking and information technology”; and<br />
<br />
(C) in paragraph (2)—<br />
<br />
(i) in the second sentence, by striking “2” and inserting “3”;<br />
<br />
(ii) by striking “Committee on Science and Technology” and inserting “Committee on Science, Space, and Technology”; and<br />
<br />
(iii) by striking “The first report shall be due within 1 year after the date of enactment of the America COMPETES Act.”;<br />
<br />
(4) in subsection (c)(1)(A), by striking “high-performance computing” and inserting “networking and information technology”; and<br />
<br />
(5) by adding at the end the following new subsections:<br />
<br />
“(d) Periodic Reviews.—The agencies identified in subsection (a)(3)(B) shall—<br />
<br />
“(1) periodically assess and update, as appropriate, the contents, scope, and funding levels of the Program Component Areas and work through the National Science and Technology Council and with the assistance of the National Coordination Office described under section 102 to restructure the Program when warranted, taking into consideration any relevant recommendations of the advisory committee established under subsection (b); and<br />
<br />
“(2) working through the National Science and Technology Council and with the assistance of the National Coordination Office described under section 102, ensure that the Program includes large-scale, long-term, interdisciplinary research and development activities, including activities described in section 103.<br />
<br />
“(e) Strategic Plan.—<br />
<br />
“(1) IN GENERAL.—The agencies identified in subsection (a)(3)(B), working through the National Science and Technology Council and with the assistance of the National Coordination Office described under section 102, shall develop, within 12 months after the date of enactment of the Networking and Information Technology Research and Development Modernization Act of 2016, and update every 5 years thereafter, a 5-year strategic plan for the Program.<br />
<br />
“(2) CONTENTS.—The strategic plan shall specify near-term and long-term cross-cutting objectives for the Program, the anticipated time frame for achieving the near-term objectives, the metrics to be used for assessing progress toward the objectives, and how the Program will—<br />
<br />
“(A) address long-term challenges of national importance for which solutions require large-scale, long-term, interdisciplinary research and development;<br />
<br />
“(B) encourage and support mechanisms for interdisciplinary research and development in networking and information technology and for Grand Challenges, including through collaborations across agencies, across Program Component Areas, with industry, with Federal laboratories (as defined in section 4 of the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980 (15 U.S.C. 3703)), and with international organizations;<br />
<br />
“(C) foster the transfer of research and development results into new technologies and applications in the national interest, including through cooperation and collaborations with networking and information technology research, development, and technology transition initiatives supported by the States;<br />
<br />
“(D) provide for cyberinfrastructure needs, as appropriate, across federally funded large-scale research facilities that produce or will produce large amounts of data that will need to be stored, curated, and made publicly available;<br />
<br />
“(E) strengthen all levels of networking and information technology education and training programs to ensure an adequate, well-trained workforce; and<br />
<br />
“(F) attract individuals identified in sections 33 and 34 of the Science and Engineering Equal Opportunities Act (42 U.S.C. 1885a and 1885b) to networking and information technology fields.<br />
<br />
“(3) RECOMMENDATIONS.—The entities involved in developing the strategic plan under paragraph (1) shall take into consideration the recommendations—<br />
<br />
“(A) of the advisory committee established under subsection (b);<br />
<br />
“(B) of the Committee on Science and relevant subcommittees of the National Science and Technology Council; and<br />
<br />
“(C) of the stakeholders whose input was solicited by the National Coordination Office, as required under section 102(b)(3).<br />
<br />
“(4) REPORT TO CONGRESS.—The Director of the National Coordination Office shall transmit the strategic plan required under paragraph (1) to the advisory committee, the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives, and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate.”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 6. NATIONAL COORDINATION OFFICE.<br />
<br />
Section 102 of such Act (15 U.S.C. 5512) is amended to read as follows:<br />
<br />
“SEC. 102. NATIONAL COORDINATION OFFICE.<br />
<br />
“(a) Office.—The Director shall maintain a National Coordination Office with a Director and full-time staff.<br />
<br />
“(b) Functions.—The National Coordination Office shall—<br />
<br />
“(1) provide technical and administrative support to—<br />
<br />
“(A) the agencies participating in planning and implementing the Program, including such support as needed in the development of the strategic plan under section 101(e); and<br />
<br />
“(B) the advisory committee established under section 101(b), as appropriate;<br />
<br />
“(2) serve as the primary point of contact on Federal networking and information technology activities for government organizations, academia, industry, professional societies, State computing and networking technology programs, interested citizen groups, and others to exchange technical and programmatic information;<br />
<br />
“(3) solicit input and recommendations from a wide range of stakeholders during the development of each strategic plan required under section 101(e) and the scope of the Program Component Areas through the convening of at least one workshop with invitees from academia, industry, Federal laboratories, and other relevant organizations and institutions;<br />
<br />
“(4) conduct and increase outreach, including to academia, industry, other relevant organizations and institutions, and the public, in order to increase awareness of the Program and the benefits of the Program and to increase potential opportunities for collaboration between agencies participating in the Program and the private sector; and<br />
<br />
“(5) promote access to and early application of the technologies, innovations, and expertise derived from Program activities to agency missions and systems across the Federal Government and to United States industry.<br />
<br />
“(c) Source Of Funding.—<br />
<br />
“(1) IN GENERAL.—The operation of the National Coordination Office shall be supported by funds from each agency participating in the Program, subject to the availability of appropriations for such purpose.<br />
<br />
“(2) SPECIFICATIONS.—The portion of the total budget of such Office that is authorized to be provided by each agency for each fiscal year shall be in the same proportion as each such agency’s share of the total budget for the Program for the previous fiscal year, as specified in the report required under section 101(a)(3).<br />
<br />
“(3) WAIVER.—As appropriate, the Director may consider and approve a reduction or waiver of an agency contribution requirement under paragraph (2).”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 7. NEXT GENERATION INTERNET.<br />
<br />
Section 103 of such Act (15 U.S.C. 5513) is repealed.<br />
<br />
SEC. 8. GRAND CHALLENGES IN AREAS OF NATIONAL IMPORTANCE.<br />
<br />
Title I of such Act (15 U.S.C. 5511 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following new section:<br />
<br />
“SEC. 103. GRAND CHALLENGES IN AREAS OF NATIONAL IMPORTANCE.<br />
<br />
“(a) In General.—The Program shall encourage agencies identified in section 101(a)(3)(E) to support large-scale, long-term, interdisciplinary research and development activities in networking and information technology directed toward agency mission areas that have the potential for significant contributions to national economic competitiveness and for other significant societal benefits. Such activities, ranging from basic research to the demonstration of technical solutions, shall be designed to advance the development of fundamental discoveries. The advisory committee established under section 101(b) shall make recommendations to the Program for candidate research and development areas for support under this section.<br />
<br />
“(b) Characteristics.—<br />
<br />
“(1) IN GENERAL.—Research and development activities under this section shall—<br />
<br />
“(A) include projects selected on the basis of applications for support through a competitive, merit-based process;<br />
<br />
“(B) involve collaborations among researchers in institutions of higher education and industry, and may involve nonprofit research institutions and Federal laboratories, as appropriate;<br />
<br />
“(C) leverage Federal investments through collaboration with related State and private sector initiatives; and<br />
<br />
“(D) include a plan for fostering the transfer of research discoveries and the results of technology demonstration activities, including from institutions of higher education and Federal laboratories, to industry for commercial development.<br />
<br />
“(2) COST-SHARING.—In selecting applications for support, the agencies may give special consideration to projects that include cost sharing from non-Federal sources.<br />
<br />
“(3) AGENCY COLLABORATION.—If two or more agencies identified in section 101(a)(3)(E), or other appropriate agencies, are working on large-scale networking and information technology research and development activities in the same area of national importance, then such agencies shall strive to collaborate through joint solicitation and selection of applications for support and subsequent funding of projects.<br />
<br />
“(4) INTERDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH CENTERS.—Research and development activities under this section may be supported through interdisciplinary research centers that are organized to investigate basic research questions and carry out technology demonstration activities in areas described in subsection (a). Research may be carried out through existing interdisciplinary centers.”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 9. WORKSHOPS AND SENIOR STEERING GROUPS.<br />
<br />
Title I of such Act (15 U.S.C. 5511 et seq.) is amended further by adding after section 103, as added by section 8 of this Act, the following new section:<br />
<br />
“SEC. 104. ADDRESSING EMERGING ISSUES.<br />
<br />
“(a) In General.—In order to address emerging issues, the Director of the National Coordination Office may conduct workshops and other activities on research areas of emerging importance, which may include the grand challenge areas identified under section 103, with participants from institutions of higher education, Federal laboratories, and industry, in order to help guide Program investments and strategic planning in those areas, including areas identified in subsection (b).<br />
<br />
“(b) Focus Areas.—In selecting research areas under subsection (a), the Director of the National Coordination Office shall consider the following topics:<br />
<br />
“(1) Data analytics to identify the current and future state of performing inference, prediction, and other forms of analysis of data, and methods for the collection, management, preservation, and use of data.<br />
<br />
“(2) The current and future state of the science, engineering, policy, and social understanding of privacy protection.<br />
<br />
“(3) The current and future state of fundamental research on the systems and science of the interplay of people and computing as well as the coordination and support being undertaken in areas such as social computing, human-robot interaction, privacy, and health-related aspects in human-computer systems.<br />
<br />
“(c) Functions.—The participants in the workshops shall, as appropriate—<br />
<br />
“(1) develop options for models for research and development partnerships among institutions of higher education, Federal laboratories, and industry, including mechanisms for the support of research and development carried out under these partnerships;<br />
<br />
“(2) develop options for research and development for the specific issue areas that would be addressed through such partnerships;<br />
<br />
“(3) propose guidelines for assigning intellectual property rights and for the transfer of research results to the private sector; and<br />
<br />
“(4) make recommendations for how Federal agencies participating in the Program can help support research and development partnerships for the specific issue areas.<br />
<br />
“(d) Participants.—The Director of the National Coordination Office shall ensure that the participants in the workshops—<br />
<br />
“(1) are individuals with knowledge and expertise in the specific issue areas; and<br />
<br />
“(2) represent a broad mix of relevant stakeholders, including academic and industry researchers and, as appropriate, Federal agencies.<br />
<br />
“(e) Senior Steering Groups And Strategic Plans.—As appropriate, the Director of the National Coordination Office shall establish senior steering groups and develop focused strategic plans to coordinate and guide activities under the research areas identified under this section, taking into consideration the findings and recommendations from any workshops carried out on those research topics.”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 10. NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION ACTIVITIES.<br />
<br />
Section 201 of such Act (15 U.S.C. 5521) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) in subsection (a)—<br />
<br />
(A) in paragraph (1)—<br />
<br />
(i) by inserting “high-end” after “National Science Foundation shall provide”; and<br />
<br />
(ii) by striking “high-performance computing” and all that follows through “networking;” and inserting “networking and information technology; and”;<br />
<br />
(B) by striking paragraphs (2) through (4); and<br />
<br />
(C) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following new paragraph:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(2) the National Science Foundation shall use its existing programs, in collaboration with other agencies, as appropriate, to improve the teaching and learning of networking and information technology at all levels of education and to increase participation in networking and information technology fields, including by individuals identified in sections 33 and 34 of the Science and Engineering Equal Opportunities Act (42 U.S.C. 1885a and 1885b).”; and<br />
<br />
(2) by striking subsection (b).<br />
<br />
SEC. 11. NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION ACTIVITIES.<br />
<br />
Section 202 of such Act (15 U.S.C. 5522) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) by striking subsection (b);<br />
<br />
(2) by striking “(a) General Responsibilities.—”; and<br />
<br />
(3) by striking “high-performance computing” and inserting “networking and information technology”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 12. DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY ACTIVITIES.<br />
<br />
Section 203 of such Act (15 U.S.C. 5523) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) by striking subsection (b);<br />
<br />
(2) by striking “(a) General Responsibilities.—”;<br />
<br />
(3) in paragraph (1), by striking “high-performance computing and networking” and inserting “networking and information technology”; and<br />
<br />
(4) in paragraph (2)(A), by striking “high-performance” and inserting “high-end”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 13. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE ACTIVITIES.<br />
<br />
Section 204 of such Act (15 U.S.C. 5524) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) in subsection (a)(1)—<br />
<br />
(A) in subparagraph (A), by striking “high-performance computing systems and networks” and inserting “networking and information technology systems and capabilities”;<br />
<br />
(B) in subparagraph (B), by striking “interoperability of high-performance computing systems in networks and for common user interfaces to systems” and inserting “interoperability and usability of networking and information technology systems”; and<br />
<br />
(C) in subparagraph (C), by striking “high-performance computing” and inserting “networking and information technology”;<br />
<br />
(2) in subsection (b)—<br />
<br />
(A) in the heading, by striking “High-Performance Computing And Network” and inserting “Networking And Information Technology”;<br />
<br />
(B) by striking “Pursuant to the Computer Security Act of 1987 (Public Law 100–235; 101 Stat. 1724), the” and inserting “The”; and<br />
<br />
(C) by striking “sensitive”; and<br />
<br />
(3) by striking subsections (c) and (d).<br />
<br />
SEC. 14. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY ACTIVITIES.<br />
<br />
Section 205 of such Act (15 U.S.C. 5525) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) by striking subsection (b);<br />
<br />
(2) by striking “(a) General Responsibilities.—”;<br />
<br />
(3) by striking “basic and applied”;<br />
<br />
(4) by striking “computational” and inserting “networking and information technology”; and<br />
<br />
(5) by inserting “All software and code, along with any subsequent updates to the software and code, developed by the Environmental Protection Agency under the Program and used in conducting scientific research shall be made publically available. In cases where the underlying software or code is proprietary or contains confidential business information, the Agency shall disclose only the name and vendor of the software and code used for all proprietary or confidential business information portions of the software or code. The Environmental Protection Agency shall ensure that the research conducted under the Program does not duplicate the scope or aims of similar research and initiatives at other Federal agencies. No Environmental Protection Agency funds shall be used towards research that duplicates the scope or aims of similar research and initiatives at other Federal agencies.” after “dynamics models.”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 15. ROLE OF THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION.<br />
<br />
Section 206 of such Act (15 U.S.C. 5526) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) by striking subsection (b);<br />
<br />
(2) by striking “(a) General Responsibilities.—”; and<br />
<br />
(3) by striking “to conduct basic” and all that follows through “software capabilities” and inserting “to support programs and activities to improve the teaching and learning of networking and information technology fields and contribute to the development of a skilled networking and information technology workforce”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 16. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS.<br />
<br />
Section 207(b) of such Act (15 U.S.C. 5527(b)) is amended by striking “high-performance computing” and inserting “networking and information technology”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 17. REPEAL.<br />
<br />
Section 208 of such Act (15 U.S.C. 5528) is repealed.<br />
<br />
SEC. 18. ADDITIONAL REPEAL.<br />
<br />
Section 4 of the Department of Energy High-End Computing Revitalization Act of 2004 (15 U.S.C. 5543) is repealed.<br />
<br />
Passed the House of Representatives June 13, 2016.<br />
<br />
Attest: karen l. haas, <br />
Clerk.<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/5312/ Link to bill page]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=115-HR1774_Developing_the_Next_Generation_of_Small_Businesses_Act_of_2017&diff=17799115-HR1774 Developing the Next Generation of Small Businesses Act of 20172017-04-14T16:05:40Z<p>Suchen-teh: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=115-HR1774 Developing the Next Generation of Small Businesses Act of 2017<br />
|Proposed in=115<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Velazquez, Nydia M. (D-NY-7)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House Small Business<br />
|Has bill status=Proposed<br />
}}<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
115th CONGRESS<br />
1st Session<br />
H. R. 1774<br />
<br />
To amend the Small Business Act to provide for improvements to small business development centers, the women’s business center program, the SCORE program, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES<br />
March 29, 2017<br />
Ms. Velázquez (for herself and Mr. Chabot) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Small Business<br />
<br />
A BILL<br />
To amend the Small Business Act to provide for improvements to small business development centers, the women’s business center program, the SCORE program, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
<br />
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.<br />
(a) Short Title.—This Act may be cited as the “Developing the Next Generation of Small Businesses Act of 2017”.<br />
<br />
(b) Table Of Contents.—The table of contents for this Act are as follows:<br />
<br />
<br />
Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents.<br />
TITLE I—SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTERS IMPROVEMENTS<br />
<br />
Sec. 101. Short title.<br />
Sec. 102. Use of authorized entrepreneurial development programs.<br />
Sec. 103. Marketing of services.<br />
Sec. 104. Data collection.<br />
Sec. 105. Fees from private partnerships and cosponsorships.<br />
Sec. 106. Equity for small business development centers.<br />
Sec. 107. Confidentiality requirements.<br />
Sec. 108. Limitation on award of grants to small business development centers.<br />
TITLE II—WOMEN’S BUSINESS CENTERS PROGRAM IMPROVEMENTS<br />
<br />
Sec. 201. Short title.<br />
Sec. 202. Office of Women’s Business Ownership.<br />
Sec. 203. Women’s Business Center Program.<br />
Sec. 204. Matching requirements under Women's Business Center Program.<br />
TITLE III—SCORE PROGRAM REAUTHORIZATION<br />
<br />
Sec. 301. Short title.<br />
Sec. 302. SCORE reauthorization.<br />
Sec. 303. SCORE program.<br />
Sec. 304. Online component.<br />
Sec. 305. Study and report on the future role of the score program.<br />
Sec. 306. Technical and conforming amendments.<br />
TITLE I—SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTERS IMPROVEMENTS<br />
<br />
SEC. 101. SHORT TITLE.<br />
This title may be cited as the “Small Business Development Centers Improvement Act of 2017”.<br />
<br />
<br />
SEC. 102. USE OF AUTHORIZED ENTREPRENEURIAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS.<br />
The Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 631 et seq.) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) by redesignating section 47 as section 48; and<br />
<br />
(2) by inserting after section 46 the following new section:<br />
<br />
“SEC. 47. USE OF AUTHORIZED ENTREPRENEURIAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS.<br />
<br />
“(a) Expanded Support For Entrepreneurs.—<br />
<br />
“(1) IN GENERAL.—Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Administrator shall only use the programs authorized in sections 7(j), 7(m), 8(a), 8(b)(1), 21, 22, 29, and 32 of this Act, and sections 358 and 389 of the Small Business Investment Act to deliver entrepreneurial development services, entrepreneurial education, support for the development and maintenance of clusters, or business training.<br />
<br />
“(2) EXCEPTION.—This section shall not apply to services provided to assist small business concerns owned by an Indian tribe (as such term is defined in section 8(a)(13)).<br />
<br />
“(b) Annual Report.—Beginning on the first December 1 after the date of enactment of this subsection, the Administrator shall annually report to the Committee on Small Business of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship of the Senate on all entrepreneurial development activities undertaken in the current fiscal year. This report shall include—<br />
<br />
“(1) a description and operating details for each program and activity;<br />
<br />
“(2) operating circulars, manuals, and standard operating procedures for each program and activity;<br />
<br />
“(3) a description of the process used to award grants under each program and activity;<br />
<br />
“(4) a list of all awardees, contractors, and vendors (including organization name and location) and the amount of awards for the current fiscal year for each program and activity;<br />
<br />
“(5) the amount of funding obligated for the current fiscal year for each program and activity; and<br />
<br />
“(6) the names and titles for those individuals responsible for each program and activity.”.<br />
<br />
<br />
SEC. 103. MARKETING OF SERVICES.<br />
Section 21 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 648) is amended by adding at the end the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(o) No Prohibition Of Marketing Of Services.—The Administrator shall not prohibit applicants receiving grants under this section from marketing and advertising their services to individuals and small business concerns.”.<br />
<br />
<br />
SEC. 104. DATA COLLECTION.<br />
(a) In General.—Section 21(a)(3)(A) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 648(a)(3)(A)) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) by striking “as provided in this section and” and inserting “as provided in this section,”; and<br />
<br />
(2) by inserting before the period at the end the following: “, and (iv) governing data collection activities related to applicants receiving grants under this section”.<br />
<br />
(b) Annual Report On Data Collection.—Section 21 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 648), as amended by section 103 of this Act, is further amended by adding at the end the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(p) Annual Report On Data Collection.—The Administrator shall report annually to the Committee on Small Business of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship of the Senate on any data collection activities related to the Small Business Development Center program.”.<br />
<br />
(c) Working Group To Improve Data Collection.—<br />
<br />
(1) ESTABLISHMENT AND STUDY.—The Administrator of the Small Business Administration shall establish a Data Collection Working Group consisting of members from entrepreneurial development grant recipients associations and organizations and Administration officials, to carry out a study to determine the best way to capture data collection and create or revise existing systems dedicated to data collection.<br />
<br />
(2) REPORT.—Not later than the end of the 180-day period beginning on the date of the enactment of this Act, the Data Collection Working Group shall issue a report to the Committee on Small Business of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship of the Senate containing the findings and determinations made in carrying out the study required under paragraph (1), including—<br />
<br />
(A) recommendations for revising existing data collection practices; and<br />
<br />
(B) a proposed plan for the Small Business Administration to implement such recommendations.<br />
<br />
<br />
SEC. 105. FEES FROM PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS AND COSPONSORSHIPS.<br />
Section 21(a)(3) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 648(a)(3)(C)), as amended by section 104, is further amended by adding at the end the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(D) Fees From Private Partnerships And Cosponsorships.—Participation in private partnerships and cosponsorships with the Administration shall not limit small business development centers from collecting fees or other income related to the operation of such private partnerships and cosponsorships.”.<br />
<br />
<br />
SEC. 106. EQUITY FOR SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTERS.<br />
Subclause (I) of section 21(a)(4)(C)(v) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 648(a)(4)(C)(v)) is amended to read as follows:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(I) IN GENERAL.—Of the amounts made available in any fiscal year to carry out this section not more than $600,000 may be used by the Administration to pay expenses enumerated in subparagraphs (B) through (D) of section 20(a)(1).”.<br />
<br />
<br />
SEC. 107. CONFIDENTIALITY REQUIREMENTS.<br />
Section 21(a)(7)(A) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 648(a)(7)(A)) is amended by inserting after “under this section” the following: “to any State, local or Federal agency, or third party”.<br />
<br />
<br />
SEC. 108. LIMITATION ON AWARD OF GRANTS TO SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTERS.<br />
(a) In General.—Section 21 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 648), as amended by section 4, is further amended—<br />
<br />
(1) in subsection (a)(1), by striking “any women's business center operating pursuant to section 29,”;<br />
<br />
(2) by adding at the end the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(q) Limitation On Award Of Grants.—Except for not-for-profit institutions of higher education, and notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Administrator may not award grants (including contracts and cooperative agreements) under this section to any entity other than those that received grants (including contracts and cooperative agreements) under this section prior to the date of the enactment of this subsection, and that seek to renew such grants (including contracts and cooperative agreements) after such date.”.<br />
<br />
(b) Rule Of Construction.—The amendments made by this section may not be construed as prohibiting a women’s business center from receiving a subgrant from an entity receiving a grant under section 21 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 648).<br />
<br />
TITLE II—WOMEN’S BUSINESS CENTERS PROGRAM IMPROVEMENTS<br />
<br />
SEC. 201. SHORT TITLE.<br />
This title may be cited as the “Women’s Business Centers Improvements Act of 2017”.<br />
<br />
<br />
SEC. 202. OFFICE OF WOMEN’S BUSINESS OWNERSHIP.<br />
Section 29(g) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 656(g)) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) in paragraph (2), by striking subparagraphs (B) and (C) and inserting the following:<br />
<br />
“(B) RESPONSIBILITIES.—The responsibilities of the Assistant Administrator shall be to administer the programs and services of the Office of Women’s Business Ownership.<br />
<br />
“(C) DUTIES.—The Assistant Administrator shall perform the following functions with respect to the Office of Women’s Business Ownership:<br />
<br />
“(i) Recommend the annual administrative and program budgets of the Office and eligible entities receiving a grant under the Women’s Business Center Program.<br />
<br />
“(ii) Review the annual budgets submitted by each eligible entity receiving a grant under the Women’s Business Center Program.<br />
<br />
“(iii) Select applicants to receive grants to operate a women’s business center after reviewing information required by this section, including the budget of each applicant.<br />
<br />
“(iv) Collaborate with other Federal departments and agencies, State and local governments, not-for-profit organizations, and for-profit enterprises to maximize utilization of taxpayer dollars and reduce (or eliminate) any duplication among the programs overseen by the Office of Women’s Business Ownership and those of other entities that provide similar services to women entrepreneurs.<br />
<br />
“(v) Maintain a clearinghouse to provide for the dissemination and exchange of information between women’s business centers.<br />
<br />
“(vi) Serve as the vice chairperson of the Interagency Committee on Women’s Business Enterprise and as the liaison for the National Women’s Business Council.”; and<br />
<br />
(2) by adding at the end the following:<br />
<br />
“(3) MISSION.—The mission of the Office of Women's Business Ownership shall be to assist women entrepreneurs to start, grow, and compete in global markets by providing quality support with access to capital, access to markets, job creation, growth, and counseling by—<br />
<br />
“(A) fostering participation of women entrepreneurs in the economy by overseeing a network of women's business centers throughout States and territories;<br />
<br />
“(B) creating public-private partnerships to support women entrepreneurs and conduct outreach and education to startup and existing small business concerns owned and controlled by women; and<br />
<br />
“(C) working with other programs overseen by the Administrator to ensure women are well-represented and being served and to identify gaps where participation by women could be increased.<br />
<br />
“(4) ACCREDITATION PROGRAM.—<br />
<br />
“(A) ESTABLISHMENT.—Not later than 270 days after the date of enactment of this paragraph, the Administrator shall establish standards for an accreditation program for accrediting eligible entities receiving a grant under this section.<br />
<br />
“(B) TRANSITION PROVISION.—Before the date on which standards are established under subparagraph (A), the Administrator may not terminate a grant under this section absent evidence of fraud or other criminal misconduct by the recipient.<br />
<br />
“(C) CONTRACTING AUTHORITY.—The Administrator may provide financial assistance, by contract or otherwise, to a relevant national women’s business center representative association to provide assistance in establishing the standards required under subparagraph (A) or for carrying out an accreditation program pursuant to such standards.”.<br />
<br />
<br />
SEC. 203. WOMEN’S BUSINESS CENTER PROGRAM.<br />
(a) Definitions.—Section 29(a) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 656(a)) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) by striking paragraph (4);<br />
<br />
(2) by redesignating paragraphs (2) and (3) as paragraphs (3) and (4), respectively;<br />
<br />
(3) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(2) the term ‘eligible entity’ means—<br />
<br />
“(A) an organization described in section 501(c) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 and exempt from taxation under section 501(a) of such Code;<br />
<br />
“(B) a State, regional, or local economic development organization, so long as the organization certifies that grant funds received under this section will not be commingled with other funds;<br />
<br />
“(C) an institution of higher education, unless such institution is currently receiving a grant under section 21;<br />
<br />
“(D) a development, credit, or finance corporation chartered by a State, so long as the corporation certifies that grant funds received under this section will not be commingled with other funds; or<br />
<br />
“(E) any combination of entities listed in subparagraphs (A) through (D);”; and<br />
<br />
(4) by adding at the end the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(5) the term ‘women's business center’ means the location at which counseling and training on the management, operations (including manufacturing, services, and retail), access to capital, international trade, Government procurement opportunities, and any other matter is needed to start, maintain, or expand a small business concern owned and controlled by women.”.<br />
<br />
(b) Authority.—Section 29(b) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 656(b)) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) by redesignating paragraphs (1), (2), and (3) as subparagraphs (A), (B), and (C), respectively, and adjusting the margins accordingly;<br />
<br />
(2) by striking “The Administration” and all that follows through “5-year projects” and inserting the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(1) IN GENERAL.—There is established a Women’s Business Center Program under which the Administrator may provide a grant to any eligible entity to operate one or more women’s business centers”;<br />
<br />
(3) by striking “The projects shall” and inserting the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(2) USE OF FUNDS.—The women’s business centers shall be designed to provide counseling and training that meets the needs of women, especially socially or economically disadvantaged women, and shall”; and<br />
<br />
(4) by adding at the end the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(3) AMOUNT OF GRANTS.—<br />
<br />
“(A) IN GENERAL.—The amount of a grant provided under this subsection to an eligible entity per project year shall be not more than $185,000 (as such amount is annually adjusted by the Administrator to reflect the change in inflation).<br />
<br />
“(B) ADDITIONAL GRANTS.—<br />
<br />
“(i) IN GENERAL.—Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), with respect to an eligible entity that has received $185,000 in grants under this subsection in a project year, the Administrator may award an additional grant under this subsection of up to $65,000 during such project year if the Administrator determines that the eligible entity—<br />
<br />
“(I) agrees to obtain, after its application has been approved and notice of award has been issued, cash contributions from non-Federal sources of 1 non-Federal dollar for each Federal dollar;<br />
<br />
“(II) is in good standing with the Women's Business Center Program; and<br />
<br />
“(III) has met performance goals for the previous project year, if applicable.<br />
<br />
“(ii) LIMITATIONS.—The Administrator may only award additional grants under clause (i)—<br />
<br />
“(I) during the 3rd and 4th quarters of the fiscal year; and<br />
<br />
“(II) from unobligated amounts made available to the Administrator to carry out this section.<br />
<br />
“(4) NOTICE AND COMMENT REQUIRED.—The Administrator may only make a change to the standards by which an eligible entity obtains or maintains grants under this section, the standards for accreditation, or any other requirement for the operation of a women’s business center if the Administrator first provides notice and the opportunity for public comment, as set forth in section 553(b) of title 5, United States Code, without regard to any exceptions provided for under such section.”.<br />
<br />
(c) Conditions Of Participation.—Section 29(c) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 656(c)) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) in paragraph (1)—<br />
<br />
(A) by striking “the recipient organization” and inserting “an eligible entity”; and<br />
<br />
(B) by striking “financial assistance” and inserting “a grant”;<br />
<br />
(2) in paragraph (3)—<br />
<br />
(A) by striking “financial assistance authorized pursuant to this section may be made by grant, contract, or cooperative agreement and” and inserting “grants authorized pursuant to this section”; and<br />
<br />
(B) in the second sentence, by striking “a recipient organization” and inserting “an eligible entity”;<br />
<br />
(3) in paragraph (4)—<br />
<br />
(A) by striking “recipient of assistance” and inserting “eligible entity”;<br />
<br />
(B) by striking “during any project, it shall not be eligible thereafter” and inserting “during any project for 2 consecutive years, the eligible entity shall not be eligible at any time after that 2-year period”;<br />
<br />
(C) by striking “such organization” and inserting “the eligible entity”; and<br />
<br />
(D) by striking “the recipient” and inserting “the eligible entity”; and<br />
<br />
(4) by adding at end the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(5) SEPARATION OF PROJECT AND FUNDS.—An eligible entity shall—<br />
<br />
“(A) carry out a project under this section separately from other projects, if any, of the eligible entity; and<br />
<br />
“(B) separately maintain and account for any grants under this section.<br />
<br />
“(6) EXAMINATION OF ELIGIBLE ENTITIES.—<br />
<br />
“(A) REQUIRED SITE VISIT.—Each applicant, prior to receiving a grant under this section, shall have a site visit by an employee of the Administration, in order to ensure that the applicant has sufficient resources to provide the services for which the grant is being provided.<br />
<br />
“(B) ANNUAL REVIEW.—An employee of the Administration shall—<br />
<br />
“(i) conduct an annual review of the compliance of each eligible entity receiving a grant under this section with the grant agreement, including a financial examination; and<br />
<br />
“(ii) provide such review to the eligible entity as required under subsection (l).<br />
<br />
“(7) REMEDIATION OF PROBLEMS.—<br />
<br />
“(A) PLAN OF ACTION.—If a review of an eligible entity under paragraph (6)(B) identifies any problems, the eligible entity shall, within 45 calendar days of receiving such review, provide the Assistant Administrator with a plan of action, including specific milestones, for correcting such problems.<br />
<br />
“(B) PLAN OF ACTION REVIEW BY THE ASSISTANT ADMINISTRATOR.—The Assistant Administrator shall review each plan of action submitted under subparagraph (A) within 30 calendar days of receiving such plan and—<br />
<br />
“(i) if the Assistant Administrator determines that such plan will bring the eligible entity into compliance with all the terms of the grant agreement, approve such plan;<br />
<br />
“(ii) if the Assistant Administrator determines that such plan is inadequate to remedy the problems identified in the annual review to which the plan of action relates, the Assistant Administrator shall set forth such reasons in writing and provide such determination to the eligible entity within 15 calendar days of such determination.<br />
<br />
“(C) AMENDMENT TO PLAN OF ACTION.—An eligible entity receiving a determination under subparagraph (B)(ii) shall have 30 calendar days from the receipt of the determination to amend the plan of action to satisfy the problems identified by the Assistant Administrator and resubmit such plan to the Assistant Administrator.<br />
<br />
“(D) AMENDED PLAN REVIEW BY THE ASSISTANT ADMINISTRATOR.—Within 15 calendar days of the receipt of an amended plan of action under subparagraph (C), the Assistant Administrator shall either approve or reject such plan and provide such approval or rejection in writing to the eligible entity.<br />
<br />
“(E) APPEAL OF ASSISTANT ADMINISTRATOR DETERMINATION.—<br />
<br />
“(i) IN GENERAL.—If the Assistant Administrator rejects an amended plan under subparagraph (D), the eligible entity shall have the opportunity to appeal such decision to the Administrator, who may delegate such appeal to an appropriate officer of the Administration.<br />
<br />
“(ii) OPPORTUNITY FOR EXPLANATION.—Any appeal described under clause (i) shall provide an opportunity for the eligible entity to provide, in writing, an explanation of why the eligible entity’s plan remedies the problems identified in the annual review.<br />
<br />
“(iii) NOTICE OF DETERMINATION.—The determination of the appeal shall be provided to the eligible entity, in writing, within 15 calendar days from the eligible entity’s filing of the appeal.<br />
<br />
“(iv) EFFECT OF FAILURE TO ACT.—If the Administrator fails to act on an appeal made under this subparagraph within the 15 calendar day period specified under clause (iii), the eligible entity’s amended plan of action submitted under subparagraph (C) shall be deemed to be approved.<br />
<br />
“(8) TERMINATION OF GRANT.—<br />
<br />
“(A) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator shall require that, if an eligible entity fails to comply with a plan of action approved by the Assistant Administrator under paragraph (7)(B)(i) or an amended plan of action approved by the Assistant Administrator under paragraph (7)(D) or approved on appeal under paragraph (7)(E), the Assistant Administrator shall terminate the grant provided to the eligible entity under this section.<br />
<br />
“(B) APPEAL OF TERMINATION.—An eligible entity that has a grant terminated under subparagraph (A) shall have the opportunity to challenge the termination on the record and after an opportunity for a hearing.<br />
<br />
“(C) FINAL AGENCY ACTION.—The determination made pursuant to subparagraph (B) shall be considered final agency action for the purposes of chapter 7, title 5, United States Code.”.<br />
<br />
(d) Submission Of 5-Year Plan.—Section 29(e) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 656(e)) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) by striking “applicant organization” and inserting “eligible entity”;<br />
<br />
(2) by striking “a recipient organization” and inserting “an eligible entity”;<br />
<br />
(3) by striking “financial assistance” and inserting “grants”; and<br />
<br />
(4) by striking “site”.<br />
<br />
(e) Applications And Criteria For Initial Grant.—Subsection (f) of section 29 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 656) is amended to read as follows:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(f) Applications And Criteria For Initial Grant.—<br />
<br />
“(1) APPLICATION.—Each eligible entity desiring a grant under subsection (b) shall submit to the Administrator an application that contains—<br />
<br />
“(A) a certification that the eligible entity—<br />
<br />
“(i) has designated an executive director or program manager, who may be compensated using grant funds under subsection (b) or other sources, to manage the women's business center for which a grant under subsection (b) is sought; and<br />
<br />
“(ii) meets the accounting and reporting requirements established by the Director of the Office of Management and Budget;<br />
<br />
“(B) information demonstrating that the eligible entity has the ability and resources to meet the needs of the market to be served by the women's business center, including the ability to obtain the non-Federal contribution required under subsection (c);<br />
<br />
“(C) information relating to the assistance to be provided by the women's business center in the area in which the women's business center is located;<br />
<br />
“(D) information demonstrating the experience and effectiveness of the eligible entity in—<br />
<br />
“(i) conducting the services described under subsection (a)(5);<br />
<br />
“(ii) providing training and services to a representative number of women who are socially or economically disadvantaged; and<br />
<br />
“(iii) working with resource partners of the Administration and other entities, such as universities; and<br />
<br />
“(E) a 5-year plan that describes the ability of the eligible entity to provide the services described under subsection (a)(3), including to a representative number of women who are socially or economically disadvantaged.<br />
<br />
“(2) REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF APPLICATIONS FOR INITIAL GRANTS.—<br />
<br />
“(A) REVIEW AND SELECTION OF ELIGIBLE ENTITIES.—<br />
<br />
“(i) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator shall review applications to determine whether the applicant can meet obligations to perform the activities required by a grant under this section, including—<br />
<br />
“(I) the experience of the applicant in conducting activities required by this section;<br />
<br />
“(II) the amount of time needed for the applicant to commence operations should it be awarded a grant;<br />
<br />
“(III) the capacity of the applicant to meet the accreditation standards established by the Administrator in a timely manner;<br />
<br />
“(IV) the ability of the applicant to sustain operations for more than 5 years (including its ability to obtain sufficient non-Federal funds for that period);<br />
<br />
“(V) the location of the women’s business center and its proximity to other grant recipients under this section; and<br />
<br />
“(VI) the population density of the area to be served by the women’s business center.<br />
<br />
“(ii) SELECTION CRITERIA.—<br />
<br />
“(I) GUIDANCE.—The Administrator shall issue guidance (after providing an opportunity for notice and comment) to specify the criteria for review and selection of applicants under this subsection.<br />
<br />
“(II) MODIFICATIONS PROHIBITED AFTER ANNOUNCEMENT.—With respect to a public announcement of any opportunity to be awarded a grant under this section made by the Administrator pursuant to subsection (l)(1), the Administrator may not modify guidance issued pursuant to subclause (I) with respect to such opportunity unless required to do so by an Act of Congress or an order of a Federal court.<br />
<br />
“(III) RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.—Nothing in this clause may be construed as prohibiting the Administrator from modifying the guidance issued pursuant to subclause (I) (after providing an opportunity for notice and comment) as such guidance applies to an opportunity to be awarded a grant under this section that the Administrator has not yet publicly announced pursuant to subsection (l)(1).<br />
<br />
“(B) RECORD RETENTION.—<br />
<br />
“(i) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator shall maintain a copy of each application submitted under this subsection for not less than 5 years.<br />
<br />
“(ii) PAPERWORK REDUCTION.—The Administrator shall take steps to reduce, to the maximum extent practicable, the paperwork burden associated with carrying out clause (i).”.<br />
<br />
(f) Notification Requirements Under The Women’s Business Center Program.—Section 29 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 656) is amended by inserting after subsection (k) the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(l) Notification Requirements Under The Women’s Business Center Program.—The Administrator shall provide—<br />
<br />
“(1) a public announcement of any opportunity to be awarded grants under this section, and such announcement shall include the standards by which such award will be made, including the guidance issued pursuant to subsection (f)(2)(A)(ii);<br />
<br />
“(2) the opportunity for any applicant for a grant under this section that failed to obtain such a grant a debriefing with the Assistant Administrator to review the reasons for the applicant’s failure; and<br />
<br />
“(3) with respect to any site visit or evaluation of an eligible entity receiving a grant under this section that is carried out by an officer or employee of the Administration (other than the Inspector General), a copy of the site visit report or evaluation, as applicable, within 30 calendar days of the completion of such vision or evaluation.”.<br />
<br />
(g) Continued Funding For Centers.—Section 29(m) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 656(m)) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) by striking paragraph (3) and inserting the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(3) APPLICATION AND APPROVAL FOR CONTINUATION GRANTS.—<br />
<br />
“(A) SOLICITATION OF APPLICATIONS.—The Administrator shall solicit applications and award continuation grants under this subsection for the first fiscal year beginning after the date of enactment of this paragraph, and every third fiscal year thereafter.<br />
<br />
“(B) CONTENTS OF APPLICATION.—Each eligible entity desiring a grant under this subsection shall submit to the Administrator an application that contains—<br />
<br />
“(i) a certification that the applicant—<br />
<br />
“(I) is an eligible entity;<br />
<br />
“(II) has designated an executive director or program manager to manage the women's business center operated by the applicant; and<br />
<br />
“(III) as a condition of receiving a grant under this subsection, agrees—<br />
<br />
“(aa) to receive a site visit as part of the final selection process, at the discretion of the Administrator; and<br />
<br />
“(bb) to remedy any problem identified pursuant to the site visit under item (aa);<br />
<br />
“(ii) information demonstrating that the applicant has the ability and resources to meet the needs of the market to be served by the women's business center for which a grant under this subsection is sought, including the ability to obtain the non-Federal contribution required under paragraph (4)(C);<br />
<br />
“(iii) information relating to assistance to be provided by the women's business center in the geographic area served by the women's business center for which a grant under this subsection is sought;<br />
<br />
“(iv) information demonstrating that the applicant has worked with resource partners of the Administration and other entities;<br />
<br />
“(v) a 3-year plan that describes the services provided by the women's business center for which a grant under this subsection is sought—<br />
<br />
“(I) to serve women who are business owners or potential business owners by conducting training and counseling activities; and<br />
<br />
“(II) to provide training and services to a representative number of women who are socially or economically disadvantaged; and<br />
<br />
“(vi) any additional information that the Administrator may reasonably require.<br />
<br />
“(C) REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF APPLICATIONS FOR GRANTS.—<br />
<br />
“(i) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator—<br />
<br />
“(I) shall review each application submitted under subparagraph (B), based on the information described in such subparagraph and the criteria set forth under clause (ii) of this subparagraph; and<br />
<br />
“(II) as part of the final selection process, may, at the discretion of the Administrator, conduct a site visit to each women's business center for which a grant under this subsection is sought, in particular to evaluate the women's business center using the selection criteria described in clause (ii)(II).<br />
<br />
“(ii) SELECTION CRITERIA.—<br />
<br />
“(I) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator shall evaluate applicants for grants under this subsection in accordance with selection criteria that are—<br />
<br />
“(aa) established before the date on which applicants are required to submit the applications;<br />
<br />
“(bb) stated in terms of relative importance; and<br />
<br />
“(cc) publicly available and stated in each solicitation for applications for grants under this subsection made by the Administrator.<br />
<br />
“(II) REQUIRED CRITERIA.—The selection criteria for a grant under this subsection shall include—<br />
<br />
“(aa) the total number of entrepreneurs served by the applicant;<br />
<br />
“(bb) the total number of new startup companies assisted by the applicant;<br />
<br />
“(cc) the percentage of clients of the applicant that are socially or economically disadvantaged;<br />
<br />
“(dd) the percentage of individuals in the community served by the applicant who are socially or economically disadvantaged;<br />
<br />
“(ee) the successful accreditation of the applicant under the accreditation program developed under subsection (g)(5); and<br />
<br />
“(ff) any additional criteria that the Administrator may reasonably require.<br />
<br />
“(iii) CONDITIONS FOR CONTINUED FUNDING.—In determining whether to make a grant under this subsection, the Administrator—<br />
<br />
“(I) shall consider the results of the most recent evaluation of the women's business center for which a grant under this subsection is sought, and, to a lesser extent, previous evaluations; and<br />
<br />
“(II) may withhold a grant under this subsection, if the Administrator determines that the applicant has failed to provide the information required to be provided under this paragraph, or the information provided by the applicant is inadequate.<br />
<br />
“(D) NOTIFICATION.—Not later than 60 calendar days after the date of each deadline to submit applications under this paragraph, the Administrator shall approve or deny each submitted application and notify the applicant for each such application of the approval or denial.<br />
<br />
“(E) RECORD RETENTION.—<br />
<br />
“(i) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator shall maintain a copy of each application submitted under this paragraph for not less than 5 years.<br />
<br />
“(ii) PAPERWORK REDUCTION.—The Administrator shall take steps to reduce, to the maximum extent practicable, the paperwork burden associated with carrying out clause (i).”; and<br />
<br />
(2) by striking paragraph (5) and inserting the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(5) AWARD TO PREVIOUS RECIPIENTS.—There shall be no limitation on the number of times the Administrator may award a grant to an applicant under this subsection.”.<br />
<br />
(h) Technical And Conforming Amendments.—Section 29 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 656) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) in subsection (h)(2), by striking “to award a contract (as a sustainability grant) under subsection (l) or”;<br />
<br />
(2) in subsection (j)(1), by striking “The Administration” and inserting “Not later than November 1 of each year, the Administrator”;<br />
<br />
(3) in subsection (k)—<br />
<br />
(A) by striking paragraphs (1) and (4);<br />
<br />
(B) by inserting before paragraph (2) the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(1) IN GENERAL.—There are authorized to be appropriated to the Administration to carry out this section, to remain available until expended, $21,750,000 for each of fiscal years 2018 through 2021.”; and<br />
<br />
(C) in paragraph (2), by striking subparagraph (B) and inserting the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(B) EXCEPTIONS.—Of the amount made available under this subsection for a fiscal year, the following amounts shall be available for selection panel costs, costs associated with maintaining an accreditation program, and post-award conference costs:<br />
<br />
“(i) For the first fiscal year beginning after the date of the enactment of this subparagraph, 2.65 percent.<br />
<br />
“(ii) For the second fiscal year beginning after the date of the enactment of this subparagraph and each fiscal year thereafter through fiscal year 2021, 2.5 percent.”; and<br />
<br />
(4) in subsection (m)—<br />
<br />
(A) in paragraph (2), by striking “subsection (b) or (l)” and inserting “this subsection or subsection (b)”; and<br />
<br />
(B) in paragraph (4)(D), by striking “or subsection (l)”.<br />
<br />
(i) Effect On Existing Grants.—<br />
<br />
(1) TERMS AND CONDITIONS.—A nonprofit organization receiving a grant under section 29(m) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 656(m)), as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of this Act, shall continue to receive the grant under the terms and conditions in effect for the grant on the day before the date of enactment of this Act, except that the nonprofit organization may not apply for a continuation of the grant under section 29(m)(5) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 656(m)(5)), as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of this Act.<br />
<br />
(2) LENGTH OF CONTINUATION GRANT.—The Administrator of the Small Business Administration may award a grant under section 29(m) of the Small Business Act to a nonprofit organization receiving a grant under section 29(m) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 656(m)), as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of this Act, for the period—<br />
<br />
(A) beginning on the day after the last day of the grant agreement under such section 29(m); and<br />
<br />
(B) ending at the end of the third fiscal year beginning after the date of enactment of this Act.<br />
<br />
<br />
SEC. 204. MATCHING REQUIREMENTS UNDER WOMEN'S BUSINESS CENTER PROGRAM.<br />
Section 29(c) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 656(c)), as amended by this Act, is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) in paragraph (1), by striking “As a condition” and inserting “Subject to paragraph (6), as a condition”; and<br />
<br />
(2) by adding at the end the following:<br />
<br />
“(9) WAIVER OF NON-FEDERAL SHARE.—<br />
<br />
“(A) IN GENERAL.—Upon request by an eligible entity, and in accordance with this paragraph, the Administrator may waive, in whole or in part, the requirement to obtain non-Federal funds under this subsection for counseling and training activities of the eligible entity carried out using a grant under this section for a fiscal year. The Administrator may not waive the requirement for an eligible entity to obtain non-Federal funds under this paragraph for more than a total of 2 consecutive fiscal years.<br />
<br />
“(B) CONSIDERATIONS.—In determining whether to waive the requirement to obtain non-Federal funds under this paragraph, the Administrator shall consider—<br />
<br />
“(i) the economic conditions affecting the eligible entity;<br />
<br />
“(ii) the impact a waiver under this paragraph would have on the credibility of the Women's Business Center Program under this section;<br />
<br />
“(iii) the demonstrated ability of the eligible entity to raise non-Federal funds; and<br />
<br />
“(iv) the performance of the eligible entity.<br />
<br />
“(C) LIMITATION.—The Administrator may not waive the requirement to obtain non-Federal funds under this paragraph if granting the waiver would undermine the credibility of the Women's Business Center Program.<br />
<br />
“(10) SOLICITATION.—Notwithstanding any other provision of law, eligible entity may—<br />
<br />
“(A) solicit cash and in-kind contributions from private individuals and entities to be used to carry out the activities of the eligible entity under the project conducted under this section; and<br />
<br />
“(B) use amounts made available by the Administrator under this section for the cost of such solicitation and management of the contributions received.<br />
<br />
“(11) EXCESS NON-FEDERAL DOLLARS.—The amount of non-Federal dollars obtained by an eligible entity that is above the amount that is required to be obtained by the eligible entity under this subsection shall not be subject to the requirements of part 200 of title 2, Code of Federal Regulations, or any successor thereto, if such amount of non-Federal dollars—<br />
<br />
“(A) is not used as matching funds for purposes of implementing the Women’s Business Center Program; and<br />
<br />
“(B) was not obtained using funds from the Women’s Business Center Program.”.<br />
<br />
TITLE III—SCORE PROGRAM REAUTHORIZATION<br />
<br />
SEC. 301. SHORT TITLE.<br />
This title may be cited as the “SCORE for Small Business Act of 2017”.<br />
<br />
<br />
SEC. 302. SCORE REAUTHORIZATION.<br />
Section 20 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 631 note) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) by redesignating subsection (j) as subsection (f); and<br />
<br />
(2) by adding at the end the following:<br />
<br />
“(g) SCORE Program.—There are authorized to be appropriated to the Administrator to carry out the SCORE program authorized by section 8(b)(1) such sums as are necessary for the Administrator to make grants or enter into cooperative agreements in a total amount that does not exceed $10,500,000 in each of fiscal years 2018 and 2019.”.<br />
<br />
<br />
SEC. 303. SCORE PROGRAM.<br />
Section 8 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 637) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) in subsection (b)(1)(B), by striking “a Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE)” and inserting “the SCORE program described in subsection (c)”; and<br />
<br />
(2) by striking subsection (c) and inserting the following:<br />
<br />
“(c) SCORE Program.—<br />
<br />
“(1) DEFINITION.—In this subsection:<br />
<br />
“(A) SCORE ASSOCIATION.—The term ‘SCORE Association’ means the Service Corps of Retired Executives Association or any successor or other organization who receives a grant from the Administrator to operate the SCORE program under paragraph (2)(A).<br />
<br />
“(B) SCORE PROGRAM.—The term ‘SCORE program’ means the SCORE program authorized by subsection (b)(1)(B).<br />
<br />
“(2) MANAGEMENT AND VOLUNTEERS.—<br />
<br />
“(A) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator shall provide a grant to the SCORE Association to manage the SCORE program.<br />
<br />
“(B) VOLUNTEERS.—A volunteer participating in the SCORE program shall—<br />
<br />
“(i) based on the business experience and knowledge of the volunteer—<br />
<br />
“(I) provide at no cost to individuals who own, or aspire to own, small business concerns personal counseling, mentoring, and coaching relating to the process of starting, expanding, managing, buying, and selling a business; and<br />
<br />
“(II) facilitate low-cost education workshops for individuals who own, or aspire to own, small business concerns; and<br />
<br />
“(ii) as appropriate, use tools, resources, and expertise of other organizations to carry out the SCORE program.<br />
<br />
“(3) PLANS AND GOALS.—The Administrator, in consultation with the SCORE Association, shall ensure that the SCORE program and each chapter of the SCORE program develop and implement plans and goals to more effectively and efficiently provide services to individuals in rural areas, economically disadvantaged communities, and other traditionally underserved communities, including plans for electronic initiatives, web-based initiatives, chapter expansion, partnerships, and the development of new skills by volunteers participating in the SCORE program.<br />
<br />
“(4) ANNUAL REPORT.—The SCORE Association shall submit to the Administrator an annual report that contains—<br />
<br />
“(A) the number of individuals counseled or trained under the SCORE program;<br />
<br />
“(B) the number of hours of counseling provided under the SCORE program; and<br />
<br />
“(C) to the extent possible—<br />
<br />
“(i) the number of small business concerns formed with assistance from the SCORE program;<br />
<br />
“(ii) the number of small business concerns expanded with assistance from the SCORE program; and<br />
<br />
“(iii) the number of jobs created with assistance from the SCORE program.<br />
<br />
“(5) PRIVACY REQUIREMENTS.—<br />
<br />
“(A) IN GENERAL.—Neither the Administrator nor the SCORE Association may disclose the name, address, or telephone number of any individual or small business concern receiving assistance from the SCORE Association without the consent of such individual or small business concern, unless—<br />
<br />
“(i) the Administrator is ordered to make such a disclosure by a court in any civil or criminal enforcement action initiated by a Federal or State agency; or<br />
<br />
“(ii) the Administrator determines such a disclosure to be necessary for the purpose of conducting a financial audit of the SCORE program, in which case disclosure shall be limited to the information necessary for the audit.<br />
<br />
“(B) ADMINISTRATOR USE OF INFORMATION.—This paragraph shall not—<br />
<br />
“(i) restrict the access of the Administrator to program activity data; or<br />
<br />
“(ii) prevent the Administrator from using client information to conduct client surveys.<br />
<br />
“(C) STANDARDS.—<br />
<br />
“(i) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator shall, after the opportunity for notice and comment, establish standards for—<br />
<br />
“(I) disclosures with respect to financial audits under subparagraph (A)(ii); and<br />
<br />
“(II) conducting client surveys, including standards for oversight of the surveys and for dissemination and use of client information.<br />
<br />
“(ii) MAXIMUM PRIVACY PROTECTION.—The standards issued under this subparagraph shall, to the extent practicable, provide for the maximum amount of privacy protection.”.<br />
<br />
<br />
SEC. 304. ONLINE COMPONENT.<br />
(a) In General.—Section 8(c) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 637(c)), as amended by section 3, is further amended by adding at the end the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(6) ONLINE COMPONENT.—In carrying out this subsection, the SCORE Association shall make use of online counseling, including by developing and implementing webinars and an electronic mentoring platform to expand access to services provided under this subsection and to further support entrepreneurs.”.<br />
<br />
(b) Online Component Report.—<br />
<br />
(1) IN GENERAL.—At the end of fiscal year 2018, the SCORE Association shall issue a report to the Committee on Small Business of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship of the Senate on the effectiveness of the online counseling and webinars required as part of the SCORE program, including—<br />
<br />
(A) how the SCORE Association determines electronic mentoring and webinar needs, develops training for electronic mentoring, establishes webinar criteria curricula, and evaluates webinar and electronic mentoring results;<br />
<br />
(B) describing the internal controls that are used and a summary of the topics covered by the webinars; and<br />
<br />
(C) performance metrics, including the number of small business concerns counseled by, the number of small business concerns created by, the number of jobs created and retained by, and the funding amounts directed towards such online counseling and webinars.<br />
<br />
(2) DEFINITIONS.—For purposes of this subsection, the terms “SCORE Association” and “SCORE program” have the meaning given those terms, respectively, under section 8(c)(1) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 637(c)(1)).<br />
<br />
<br />
SEC. 305. STUDY AND REPORT ON THE FUTURE ROLE OF THE SCORE PROGRAM.<br />
(a) Study.—The SCORE Association shall carry out a study on the future role of the SCORE program and develop a strategic plan for how the SCORE program will evolve to meet the needs of small business concerns and potential future small business concerns over the course of the 5 years following the date of enactment of this Act, with markers and specific objectives for year 1, year 3, and year 5.<br />
<br />
(b) Report.—Not later than the end of the 6-month period beginning on the date of the enactment of this Act, the SCORE Association shall issue a report to the Committee on Small Business of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship of the Senate containing—<br />
<br />
(1) all findings and determination made in carrying out the study required under subsection (a);<br />
<br />
(2) the strategic plan developed under subsection (a);<br />
<br />
(3) an explanation of how the SCORE Association plans to achieve the strategic plan, assuming both stagnant and increased funding levels.<br />
<br />
(c) Definitions.—For purposes of this section, the terms “SCORE Association” and “SCORE program” have the meaning given those terms, respectively, under section 8(c)(1) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 637(c)(1)).<br />
<br />
<br />
SEC. 306. TECHNICAL AND CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.<br />
(a) Small Business Act.—The Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 631 et seq.) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) in section 7(m)(3)(A)(i)(VIII) (15 U.S.C. 636(m)(3)(A)(i)(VIII)), by striking “Service Corps of Retired Executives” and inserting “SCORE program”; and<br />
<br />
(2) in section 22 (15 U.S.C. 649)—<br />
<br />
(A) in subsection (b)—<br />
<br />
(i) in paragraph (1), by striking “Service Corps of Retired Executives” and inserting “SCORE program”; and<br />
<br />
(ii) in paragraph (3), by striking “Service Corps of Retired Executives” and inserting “SCORE program”; and<br />
<br />
(B) in subsection (c)(12), by striking “Service Corps of Retired Executives” and inserting “SCORE program”.<br />
<br />
(b) Other Laws.—<br />
<br />
(1) CHILDREN’S HEALTH INSURANCE PROGRAM REAUTHORIZATION ACT OF 2009.—Section 621 of the Children’s Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2009 (15 U.S.C. 657p) is amended—<br />
<br />
(A) in subsection (a), by striking paragraph (4) and inserting the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(4) the term ‘SCORE program’ means the SCORE program authorized by section 8(b)(1)(B) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 637(b)(1)(B));”; and<br />
<br />
(B) in subsection (b)(4)(A)(iv), by striking “Service Corps of Retired Executives” and inserting “SCORE program”.<br />
<br />
(2) ENERGY POLICY AND CONSERVATION ACT.—Section 337(d)(2)(A) of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (42 U.S.C. 6307(d)(2)(A)) is amended by striking “Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE)” and inserting “SCORE program”.<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/1774?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22Developing+the+Next+Generation+of+Small+Businesses+Act+of+2017%22%5D%7D&r=1 Link to bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: Small Business, Committee]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=115-HR1773_Clarity_for_America%E2%80%99s_Small_Contractors_Act_of_2017&diff=17798115-HR1773 Clarity for America’s Small Contractors Act of 20172017-04-14T16:04:53Z<p>Suchen-teh: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=115-HR1773 Clarity for America’s Small Contractors Act of 2017<br />
|Proposed in=115<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Chabot, Steve (R-OH-1)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House Small Business<br />
|Has bill status=Proposed<br />
}}<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
115th CONGRESS<br />
1st Session<br />
H. R. 1773<br />
<br />
To amend the Small Business Act to improve reporting on small business goals, achieve uniformity in procurement terminology, clarify the role of small business advocates, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES<br />
March 29, 2017<br />
Mr. Chabot (for himself and Ms. Velázquez) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Small Business<br />
<br />
A BILL<br />
To amend the Small Business Act to improve reporting on small business goals, achieve uniformity in procurement terminology, clarify the role of small business advocates, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
<br />
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.<br />
(a) Short Title.—This Act may be cited as the “Clarity for America’s Small Contractors Act of 2017”.<br />
<br />
(b) Table Of Contents.—The table of contents for this Act are as follows:<br />
<br />
<br />
Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents.<br />
TITLE I—IMPROVING TRANSPARENCY AND CLARITY FOR SMALL BUSINESSES<br />
<br />
Sec. 101. Improving reporting on small business goals.<br />
Sec. 102. Uniformity in procurement terminology.<br />
TITLE II—CLARIFYING THE ROLES OF SMALL BUSINESS ADVOCATES<br />
<br />
Sec. 201. Responsibilities of commercial market representatives.<br />
Sec. 202. Responsibilities of business opportunity specialists.<br />
TITLE I—IMPROVING TRANSPARENCY AND CLARITY FOR SMALL BUSINESSES<br />
<br />
SEC. 101. IMPROVING REPORTING ON SMALL BUSINESS GOALS.<br />
(a) In General.—Section 15(h)(2)(E) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 644(h)(2)(E)) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) in clause (i)—<br />
<br />
(A) in subclause (III), by striking “and” at the end; and<br />
<br />
(B) by adding at the end the following new subclauses:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(V) that were purchased by another entity after the initial contract was awarded and as a result of the purchase, would no longer be deemed to be small business concerns for purposes of the initial contract; and<br />
<br />
“(VI) that were awarded using a procurement method that restricted competition to small business concerns owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans, qualified HUBZone small business concerns, small business concerns owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, small business concerns owned and controlled by women, or a subset of any such concerns;”;<br />
<br />
(2) in clause (ii)—<br />
<br />
(A) in subclause (IV), by striking “and” at the end; and<br />
<br />
(B) by adding at the end the following new subclauses:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(VI) that were purchased by another entity after the initial contract was awarded and as a result of the purchase, would no longer be deemed to be small business concerns owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans for purposes of the initial contract; and<br />
<br />
“(VII) that were awarded using a procurement method that restricted competition to qualified HUBZone small business concerns, small business concerns owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, small business concerns owned and controlled by women, or a subset of any such concerns;”;<br />
<br />
(3) in clause (iii)—<br />
<br />
(A) in subclause (V), by striking “and” at the end; and<br />
<br />
(B) by adding at the end the following new subclauses:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(VII) that were purchased by another entity after the initial contract was awarded and as a result of the purchase, would no longer be deemed to be qualified HUBZone small business concerns for purposes of the initial contract; and<br />
<br />
“(VIII) that were awarded using a procurement method that restricted competition to small business concerns owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans, small business concerns owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, small business concerns owned and controlled by women, or a subset of any such concerns;”;<br />
<br />
(4) in clause (iv)—<br />
<br />
(A) in subclause (V), by striking “and” at the end; and<br />
<br />
(B) by adding at the end the following new subclauses:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(VII) that were purchased by another entity after the initial contract was awarded and as a result of the purchase, would no longer be deemed to be small business concerns owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals for purposes of the initial contract; and<br />
<br />
“(VIII) that were awarded using a procurement method that restricted competition to small business concerns owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans, qualified HUBZone small business concerns, small business concerns owned and controlled by women, or a subset of any such concerns;”;<br />
<br />
(5) in clause (v)—<br />
<br />
(A) in subclause (IV), by striking “and” at the end;<br />
<br />
(B) in subclause (V), by inserting “and” at the end; and<br />
<br />
(C) by adding at the end the following new subclause:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(VI) that were purchased by another entity after the initial contract was awarded and as a result of the purchase, would no longer be deemed to be small business concerns owned by an Indian tribe other than an Alaska Native Corporation for purposes of the initial contract;”;<br />
<br />
(6) in clause (vi)—<br />
<br />
(A) in subclause (IV), by striking “and” at the end;<br />
<br />
(B) in subclause (V), by inserting “and” at the end; and<br />
<br />
(C) by adding at the end the following new subclause:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(VI) that were purchased by another entity after the initial contract was awarded and as a result of the purchase, would no longer be deemed to be small business concerns owned by a Native Hawaiian Organization for purposes of the initial contract;”;<br />
<br />
(7) in clause (vii)—<br />
<br />
(A) in subclause (IV), by striking “and” at the end; and<br />
<br />
(B) by adding at the end the following new subclause:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(VI) that were purchased by another entity after the initial contract was awarded and as a result of the purchase, would no longer be deemed to be small business concerns owned by an Alaska Native Corporation for purposes of the initial contract; and”; and<br />
<br />
(8) in clause (viii)—<br />
<br />
(A) in subclause (VII), by striking “and” at the end;<br />
<br />
(B) in subclause (VIII), by striking “and” at the end; and<br />
<br />
(C) by adding at the end the following new subclauses:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(IX) that were purchased by another entity after the initial contract was awarded and as a result of the purchase, would no longer be deemed to be small business concerns owned and controlled by women for purposes of the initial contract; and<br />
<br />
“(X) that were awarded using a procurement method that restricted competition to small business concerns owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans, qualified HUBZone small business concerns, small business concerns owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, or a subset of any such concerns; and”.<br />
<br />
(b) Effective Date.—The Administrator of the Small Business Administration shall be required to report on the information required by clauses (i)(V), (ii)(VI), (iii)(VII), (iv)(VII), (v)(VI), (vi)(VI), (vii)(VI), and (viii)(IX) of section 15(h)(2)(E) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 644(h)(2)(E)) beginning on the date that such information is available in the Federal Procurement Data System, the System for Award Management, or any new or successor system.<br />
<br />
<br />
SEC. 102. UNIFORMITY IN PROCUREMENT TERMINOLOGY.<br />
(a) In General.—Section 15(j)(1) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 644(j)(1)) is amended by striking “greater than $2,500 but not greater than $100,000” and inserting “greater than the micro-purchase threshold, but not greater than the simplified acquisition threshold”.<br />
<br />
(b) Technical Amendment.—Section 3(m) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 632(m)) is amended to read as follows:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(m) Definitions Relating To Contracting.—In this Act:<br />
<br />
“(1) PRIME CONTRACT.—The term ‘prime contract’ has the meaning given such term in section 8701(4) of title 41, United States Code.<br />
<br />
“(2) PRIME CONTRACTOR.—The term ‘prime contractor’ has the meaning given such term in section 8701(5) of title 41, United States Code.<br />
<br />
“(3) SIMPLIFIED ACQUISITION THRESHOLD.—The term ‘simplified acquisition threshold’ has the meaning given such term in section 134 of title 41, United States Code.<br />
<br />
“(4) MICRO-PURCHASE THRESHOLD.—The term ‘micro-purchase threshold’ has the meaning given such term in section 1902 of title 41, United States Code.<br />
<br />
“(5) TOTAL PURCHASE AND CONTRACTS FOR PROPERTY AND SERVICES.—The term ‘total purchases and contracts for property and services’ shall mean total number and total dollar amount of contracts and orders for property and services.”.<br />
<br />
TITLE II—CLARIFYING THE ROLES OF SMALL BUSINESS ADVOCATES<br />
<br />
SEC. 201. RESPONSIBILITIES OF COMMERCIAL MARKET REPRESENTATIVES.<br />
Section 4(h) of the Small Business Act is amended to read as follows:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(h) Commercial Market Representatives.—<br />
<br />
“(1) DUTIES.—The principal duties of a Commercial Market Representative employed by the Administrator and reporting to the senior official appointed by the Administrator with responsibilities under sections 8, 15, 31, and 36 (or the designee of such official) shall be to advance the policies established in section 8(d)(1) relating to subcontracting. Such duties shall include—<br />
<br />
“(A) helping prime contractors to find small business concerns that are capable of performing subcontracts;<br />
<br />
“(B) for contractors awarded contracts containing the clause described in section 8(d)(3), providing—<br />
<br />
“(i) counseling on the contractor’s responsibility to maximize subcontracting opportunities for small business concerns;<br />
<br />
“(ii) instruction on methods and tools to identify potential subcontractors that are small business concerns; and<br />
<br />
“(iii) assistance to increase awards to subcontractors that are small business concerns through visits, training, and reviews of past performance;<br />
<br />
“(C) providing counseling on how a small business concern may promote its capacity to contractors awarded contracts containing the clause described in section 8(d)(3); and<br />
<br />
“(D) conducting periodic reviews of contractors awarded contracts containing the clause described in section 8(d)(3) to assess compliance with subcontracting plans required under section 8(d)(6).<br />
<br />
“(2) CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS.—<br />
<br />
“(A) IN GENERAL.—Consistent with the requirements of subparagraph (B), a commercial market representative referred to in section 15(q)(3) shall have a Level I Federal Acquisition Certification in Contracting (or any successor certification) or the equivalent Department of Defense certification.<br />
<br />
“(B) DELAY OF CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENT.—<br />
<br />
“(i) TIMING.—The certification described in subparagraph (A) is not required—<br />
<br />
“(I) for any person serving as a commercial market representative on the date of the enactment of this subsection, until the date that is one calendar year after the date such person was appointed as a commercial market representative; or<br />
<br />
“(II) for any person serving as a commercial market representative on or before November 25, 2015, until November 25, 2020.<br />
<br />
“(ii) APPLICATION.—The requirements of clause (i)(I) shall be included in any initial job posting for the position of a commercial market representative.”.<br />
<br />
<br />
SEC. 202. RESPONSIBILITIES OF BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY SPECIALISTS.<br />
Section 4(g) of the Small Business Act is amended to read as follows:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(g) Business Opportunity Specialists.—<br />
<br />
“(1) DUTIES.—The exclusive duties of a Business Opportunity Specialist employed by the Administrator and reporting to the senior official appointed by the Administrator with responsibilities under sections 8, 15, 31, and 36 (or the designee of such official) shall be to implement sections 7, 8, and 45 and to complete other duties related to contracting programs under this Act. Such duties shall include—<br />
<br />
“(A) with respect to small business concerns eligible to receive contracts and subcontracts pursuant to section 8(a)—<br />
<br />
“(i) providing guidance, counseling, and referrals for assistance with technical, management, financial, or other matters that will improve the competitive viability of such concerns;<br />
<br />
“(ii) identifying causes of success or failure of such concerns;<br />
<br />
“(iii) providing comprehensive assessments of such concerns, including identifying the strengths and weaknesses of such concerns;<br />
<br />
“(iv) monitoring and documenting compliance with the requirements of sections 7 and 8 and any regulations implementing those sections;<br />
<br />
“(v) explaining the requirements of sections 7, 8, 15, 31, 36 and 45; and<br />
<br />
“(vi) advising on compliance with contracting regulations (including the Federal Acquisition Regulation) after award of such a contract or subcontract;<br />
<br />
“(B) reviewing and monitoring compliance with mentor-protege agreements under section 45;<br />
<br />
“(C) representing the interests of the Administrator and small business concerns in the award, modification, and administration of contracts and subcontracts awarded pursuant to section 8(a); and<br />
<br />
“(D) reporting fraud or abuse under section 7, 8, 15, 31, 36, or 45 or any regulations implementing such sections.<br />
<br />
“(2) CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS.—<br />
<br />
“(A) IN GENERAL.—Consistent with the requirements of subparagraph (B), a Business Opportunity Specialist described under section 7(j)(10)(D) shall have a Level I Federal Acquisition Certification in Contracting (or any successor certification) or the equivalent Department of Defense certification.<br />
<br />
“(B) DELAY OF CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENT.—<br />
<br />
“(i) TIMING.—The certification described in subparagraph (A) is not required—<br />
<br />
“(I) for any person serving as a Business Opportunity Specialist on the date of the enactment of this subsection, until the date that is one calendar year after the date such person was appointed as a Business Opportunity Specialist; or<br />
<br />
“(II) for any person serving as a Business Opportunity Specialist on or before January 3, 2013, until January 3, 2020.<br />
<br />
“(ii) APPLICATION.—The requirements of clause (i)(I) shall be included in any initial job posting for the position of a commercial market representative.”.<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/1773?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22Clarity+for+Americas+Small+Contractors+Act+of+2017%22%5D%7D&r=1 Link to bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: Small Business, Committee]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=115-HR1702_Small_Business_Development_Centers_Improvement_Act_of_2017&diff=17797115-HR1702 Small Business Development Centers Improvement Act of 20172017-04-14T16:04:08Z<p>Suchen-teh: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=115-HR1702 Small Business Development Centers Improvement Act of 2017<br />
|Proposed in=115<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Evans, Dwight (D-PA-2)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House Small Business<br />
|Has bill status=Proposed<br />
}}<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
115th CONGRESS<br />
1st Session<br />
H. R. 1702<br />
<br />
To amend the Small Business Act to improve the small business development centers program, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES<br />
March 23, 2017<br />
Mr. Evans (for himself and Mrs. Radewagen) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Small Business<br />
A BILL<br />
To amend the Small Business Act to improve the small business development centers program, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.<br />
<br />
This subtitle may be cited as the “Small Business Development Centers Improvement Act of 2017”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 2. USE OF AUTHORIZED ENTREPRENEURIAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS.<br />
<br />
The Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 631 et seq.) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) by redesignating section 47 as section 48; and<br />
<br />
(2) by inserting after section 46 the following new section:<br />
<br />
“SEC. 47. USE OF AUTHORIZED ENTREPRENEURIAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS.<br />
<br />
“(a) Expanded Support For Entrepreneurs.—<br />
<br />
“(1) IN GENERAL.—Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Administrator shall only use the programs authorized in sections 7(j), 7(m), 8(a), 8(b)(1), 21, 22, 29, and 32 of this Act, and sections 358 and 389 of the Small Business Investment Act to deliver entrepreneurial development services, entrepreneurial education, support for the development and maintenance of clusters, or business training.<br />
<br />
“(2) EXCEPTION.—This section shall not apply to services provided to assist small business concerns owned by an Indian tribe (as such term is defined in section 8(a)(13)).<br />
<br />
“(b) Annual Report.—Beginning on the first December 1 after the date of enactment of this subsection, the Administrator shall annually report to the Committee on Small Business of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship of the Senate on all entrepreneurial development activities undertaken in the current fiscal year. This report shall include—<br />
<br />
“(1) a description and operating details for each program and activity;<br />
<br />
“(2) operating circulars, manuals, and standard operating procedures for each program and activity;<br />
<br />
“(3) a description of the process used to award grants under each program and activity;<br />
<br />
“(4) a list of all awardees, contractors, and vendors (including organization name and location) and the amount of awards for the current fiscal year for each program and activity;<br />
<br />
“(5) the amount of funding obligated for the current fiscal year for each program and activity; and<br />
<br />
“(6) the names and titles for those individuals responsible for each program and activity.”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 3. MARKETING OF SERVICES.<br />
<br />
Section 21 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 648) is amended by adding at the end the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(o) No Prohibition Of Marketing Of Services.—The Administrator shall not prohibit applicants receiving grants under this section from marketing and advertising their services to individuals and small business concerns.”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 4. DATA COLLECTION.<br />
<br />
(a) In General.—Section 21(a)(3)(A) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 648(a)(3)(A)) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) by striking “as provided in this section and” and inserting “as provided in this section,”; and<br />
<br />
(2) by inserting before the period at the end the following: “, and (iv) governing data collection activities related to applicants receiving grants under this section”.<br />
<br />
(b) Annual Report On Data Collection.—Section 21 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 648), as amended by section 3 of this Act, is further amended by adding at the end the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(p) Annual Report On Data Collection.—The Administrator shall report annually to the Committee on Small Business of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship of the Senate on any data collection activities related to the Small Business Development Center program.”.<br />
<br />
(c) Working Group To Improve Data Collection.—<br />
<br />
(1) ESTABLISHMENT AND STUDY.—The Administrator of the Small Business Administration shall establish a Data Collection Working Group consisting of members from entrepreneurial development grant recipients associations and organizations and Administration officials, to carry out a study to determine the best way to capture data collection and create or revise existing systems dedicated to data collection.<br />
<br />
(2) REPORT.—Not later than the end of the 180-day period beginning on the date of the enactment of this Act, the Data Collection Working Group shall issue a report to the Committee on Small Business of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship of the Senate containing the findings and determinations made in carrying out the study required under paragraph (1), including—<br />
<br />
(A) recommendations for revising existing data collection practices; and<br />
<br />
(B) a proposed plan for the Small Business Administration to implement such recommendations.<br />
<br />
SEC. 5. FEES FROM PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS AND COSPONSORSHIPS.<br />
<br />
Section 21(a)(3) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 648(a)(3)(C)), as amended by section 4, is further amended by adding at the end the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(D) Fees From Private Partnerships And Cosponsorships.—Participation in private partnerships and cosponsorships with the Administration shall not limit small business development centers from collecting fees or other income related to the operation of such private partnerships and cosponsorships.”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 6. EQUITY FOR SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTERS.<br />
<br />
Subclause (I) of section 21(a)(4)(C)(v) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 648(a)(4)(C)(v)) is amended to read as follows:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(I) IN GENERAL.—Of the amounts made available in any fiscal year to carry out this section not more than $600,000 may be used by the Administration to pay expenses enumerated in subparagraphs (B) through (D) of section 20(a)(1).”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 7. CONFIDENTIALITY REQUIREMENTS.<br />
<br />
Section 21(a)(7)(A) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 648(a)(7)(A)) is amended by inserting after “under this section” the following: “to any State, local or Federal agency, or third party”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 8. LIMITATION ON AWARD OF GRANTS TO SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTERS.<br />
<br />
(a) In General.—Section 21 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 648), as amended by section 4, is further amended—<br />
<br />
(1) in subsection (a)(1), by striking “any women's business center operating pursuant to section 29,”; and<br />
<br />
(2) by adding at the end the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(q) Limitation On Award Of Grants.—Except for not-for-profit institutions of higher education, and notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Administrator may not award grants (including contracts and cooperative agreements) under this section to any entity other than those that received grants (including contracts and cooperative agreements) under this section prior to the date of the enactment of this subsection, and that seek to renew such grants (including contracts and cooperative agreements) after such date.”.<br />
<br />
(b) Rule Of Construction.—The amendments made by this section may not be construed as prohibiting a women’s business center from receiving a subgrant from an entity receiving a grant under section 21 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 648).<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/1702?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22Small+Business+Development+Centers+Improvement+Act+of+2017%22%5D%7D&r=1 Link to bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: Small Business, Committee]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=115-HR1700_SCORE_for_Small_Business_Act_of_2017&diff=17796115-HR1700 SCORE for Small Business Act of 20172017-04-14T16:03:27Z<p>Suchen-teh: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=115-HR1700 SCORE for Small Business Act of 2017<br />
|Proposed in=115<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Adams, Alma S. (D-NC-12)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House Small Business<br />
|Has bill status=Proposed<br />
}}<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
115th CONGRESS<br />
1st Session<br />
H. R. 1700<br />
<br />
To amend the Small Business Act to reauthorize the SCORE program, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES<br />
March 23, 2017<br />
Ms. Adams (for herself and Mr. Bacon) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Small Business<br />
A BILL<br />
To amend the Small Business Act to reauthorize the SCORE program, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.<br />
<br />
This Act may be cited as the “SCORE for Small Business Act of 2017”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 2. SCORE REAUTHORIZATION.<br />
<br />
Section 20 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 631 note) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) by redesignating subsection (j) as subsection (f); and<br />
<br />
(2) by adding at the end the following:<br />
<br />
“(g) SCORE Program.—There are authorized to be appropriated to the Administrator to carry out the SCORE program authorized by section 8(b)(1) such sums as are necessary for the Administrator to make grants or enter into cooperative agreements in a total amount that does not exceed $10,500,000 in each of fiscal years 2018 and 2019.”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 3. SCORE PROGRAM.<br />
<br />
Section 8 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 637) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) in subsection (b)(1)(B), by striking “a Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE)” and inserting “the SCORE program described in subsection (c)”; and<br />
<br />
(2) by striking subsection (c) and inserting the following:<br />
<br />
“(c) SCORE Program.—<br />
<br />
“(1) DEFINITION.—In this subsection:<br />
<br />
“(A) SCORE ASSOCIATION.—The term ‘SCORE Association’ means the Service Corps of Retired Executives Association or any successor or other organization who receives a grant from the Administrator to operate the SCORE program under paragraph (2)(A).<br />
<br />
“(B) SCORE PROGRAM.—The term ‘SCORE program’ means the SCORE program authorized by subsection (b)(1)(B).<br />
<br />
“(2) MANAGEMENT AND VOLUNTEERS.—<br />
<br />
“(A) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator shall provide a grant to the SCORE Association to manage the SCORE program.<br />
<br />
“(B) VOLUNTEERS.—A volunteer participating in the SCORE program shall—<br />
<br />
“(i) based on the business experience and knowledge of the volunteer—<br />
<br />
“(I) provide at no cost to individuals who own, or aspire to own, small business concerns personal counseling, mentoring, and coaching relating to the process of starting, expanding, managing, buying, and selling a business; and<br />
<br />
“(II) facilitate low-cost education workshops for individuals who own, or aspire to own, small business concerns; and<br />
<br />
“(ii) as appropriate, use tools, resources, and expertise of other organizations to carry out the SCORE program.<br />
<br />
“(3) PLANS AND GOALS.—The Administrator, in consultation with the SCORE Association, shall ensure that the SCORE program and each chapter of the SCORE program develop and implement plans and goals to more effectively and efficiently provide services to individuals in rural areas, economically disadvantaged communities, and other traditionally underserved communities, including plans for electronic initiatives, web-based initiatives, chapter expansion, partnerships, and the development of new skills by volunteers participating in the SCORE program.<br />
<br />
“(4) ANNUAL REPORT.—The SCORE Association shall submit to the Administrator an annual report that contains—<br />
<br />
“(A) the number of individuals counseled or trained under the SCORE program;<br />
<br />
“(B) the number of hours of counseling provided under the SCORE program; and<br />
<br />
“(C) to the extent possible—<br />
<br />
“(i) the number of small business concerns formed with assistance from the SCORE program;<br />
<br />
“(ii) the number of small business concerns expanded with assistance from the SCORE program; and<br />
<br />
“(iii) the number of jobs created with assistance from the SCORE program.<br />
<br />
“(5) PRIVACY REQUIREMENTS.—<br />
<br />
“(A) IN GENERAL.—Neither the Administrator nor the SCORE Association may disclose the name, address, or telephone number of any individual or small business concern receiving assistance from the SCORE Association without the consent of such individual or small business concern, unless—<br />
<br />
“(i) the Administrator is ordered to make such a disclosure by a court in any civil or criminal enforcement action initiated by a Federal or State agency; or<br />
<br />
“(ii) the Administrator determines such a disclosure to be necessary for the purpose of conducting a financial audit of the SCORE program, in which case disclosure shall be limited to the information necessary for the audit.<br />
<br />
“(B) ADMINISTRATOR USE OF INFORMATION.—This paragraph shall not—<br />
<br />
“(i) restrict the access of the Administrator to program activity data; or<br />
<br />
“(ii) prevent the Administrator from using client information to conduct client surveys.<br />
<br />
“(C) STANDARDS.—<br />
<br />
“(i) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator shall, after the opportunity for notice and comment, establish standards for—<br />
<br />
“(I) disclosures with respect to financial audits under subparagraph (A)(ii); and<br />
<br />
“(II) conducting client surveys, including standards for oversight of the surveys and for dissemination and use of client information.<br />
<br />
“(ii) MAXIMUM PRIVACY PROTECTION.—The standards issued under this subparagraph shall, to the extent practicable, provide for the maximum amount of privacy protection.”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 4. ONLINE COMPONENT.<br />
<br />
(a) In General.—Section 8(c) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 637(c)), as amended by section 3, is further amended by adding at the end the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(6) ONLINE COMPONENT.—In carrying out this subsection, the SCORE Association shall make use of online counseling, including by developing and implementing webinars and an electronic mentoring platform to expand access to services provided under this subsection and to further support entrepreneurs.”.<br />
<br />
(b) Online Component Report.—<br />
<br />
(1) IN GENERAL.—At the end of fiscal year 2018, the SCORE Association shall issue a report to the Committee on Small Business of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship of the Senate on the effectiveness of the online counseling and webinars required as part of the SCORE program, including—<br />
<br />
(A) how the SCORE Association determines electronic mentoring and webinar needs, develops training for electronic mentoring, establishes webinar criteria curricula, and evaluates webinar and electronic mentoring results;<br />
<br />
(B) describing the internal controls that are used and a summary of the topics covered by the webinars; and<br />
<br />
(C) performance metrics, including the number of small business concerns counseled by, the number of small business concerns created by, the number of jobs created and retained by, and the funding amounts directed towards such online counseling and webinars.<br />
<br />
(2) DEFINITIONS.—For purposes of this subsection, the terms “SCORE Association” and “SCORE program” have the meaning given those terms, respectively, under section 8(c)(1) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 637(c)(1)).<br />
<br />
SEC. 5. STUDY AND REPORT ON THE FUTURE ROLE OF THE SCORE PROGRAM.<br />
<br />
(a) Study.—The SCORE Association shall carry out a study on the future role of the SCORE program and develop a strategic plan for how the SCORE program will evolve to meet the needs of small business concerns and potential future small business concerns over the course of the 5 years following the date of enactment of this Act, with markers and specific objectives for year 1, year 3, and year 5.<br />
<br />
(b) Report.—Not later than the end of the 6-month period beginning on the date of the enactment of this Act, the SCORE Association shall issue a report to the Committee on Small Business of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship of the Senate containing—<br />
<br />
(1) all findings and determination made in carrying out the study required under subsection (a);<br />
<br />
(2) the strategic plan developed under subsection (a);<br />
<br />
(3) an explanation of how the SCORE Association plans to achieve the strategic plan, assuming both stagnant and increased funding levels.<br />
<br />
(c) Definitions.—For purposes of this section, the terms “SCORE Association” and “SCORE program” have the meaning given those terms, respectively, under section 8(c)(1) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 637(c)(1)).<br />
<br />
SEC. 6. TECHNICAL AND CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.<br />
<br />
(a) Small Business Act.—The Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 631 et seq.) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) in section 7(m)(3)(A)(i)(VIII) (15 U.S.C. 636(m)(3)(A)(i)(VIII)), by striking “Service Corps of Retired Executives” and inserting “SCORE program”; and<br />
<br />
(2) in section 22 (15 U.S.C. 649)—<br />
<br />
(A) in subsection (b)—<br />
<br />
(i) in paragraph (1), by striking “Service Corps of Retired Executives” and inserting “SCORE program”; and<br />
<br />
(ii) in paragraph (3), by striking “Service Corps of Retired Executives” and inserting “SCORE program”; and<br />
<br />
(B) in subsection (c)(12), by striking “Service Corps of Retired Executives” and inserting “SCORE program”.<br />
<br />
(b) Other Laws.—<br />
<br />
(1) CHILDREN’S HEALTH INSURANCE PROGRAM REAUTHORIZATION ACT OF 2009.—Section 621 of the Children’s Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2009 (15 U.S.C. 657p) is amended—<br />
<br />
(A) in subsection (a), by striking paragraph (4) and inserting the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(4) the term ‘SCORE program’ means the SCORE program authorized by section 8(b)(1)(B) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 637(b)(1)(B));”; and<br />
<br />
(B) in subsection (b)(4)(A)(iv), by striking “Service Corps of Retired Executives” and inserting “SCORE program”.<br />
<br />
(2) ENERGY POLICY AND CONSERVATION ACT.—Section 337(d)(2)(A) of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (42 U.S.C. 6307(d)(2)(A)) is amended by striking “Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE)” and inserting “SCORE program”.<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/1700?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22SCORE+for+Small+Business+Act+of+2017%22%5D%7D&r=1 Link to bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: Small Business, Committee]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=115-HR1693_Improving_Reporting_on_Small_Business_Goals&diff=17795115-HR1693 Improving Reporting on Small Business Goals2017-04-14T16:02:38Z<p>Suchen-teh: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=115-HR1693 Improving Reporting on Small Business Goals<br />
|Proposed in=115<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Clarke, Yvette D. (D-NY-9)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House Small Business<br />
|Has bill status=Proposed<br />
}}<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
115th CONGRESS<br />
1st Session<br />
H. R. 1693<br />
<br />
To amend the Small Business Act to add reporting requirements for certain small business concerns, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES<br />
March 23, 2017<br />
Ms. Clarke of New York (for herself and Mr. Fitzpatrick) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Small Business<br />
<br />
A BILL<br />
To amend the Small Business Act to add reporting requirements for certain small business concerns, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.<br />
<br />
This Act may be cited as the “Improving Contract Procurement for Small Businesses through More Accurate Reporting Act of 2017”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 2. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS FOR CERTAIN SMALL BUSINESS CONCERNS.<br />
<br />
Section 15(h)(2)(E) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 644(h)(2)(E)) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) in clause (i)—<br />
<br />
(A) in subclause (III), by striking “and” at the end; and<br />
<br />
(B) by adding at the end the following new subclauses:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(V) that were purchased by another entity after the initial contract was awarded and as a result of the purchase, would no longer be deemed to be small business concerns for purposes of the initial contract; and<br />
<br />
“(VI) that were awarded using a procurement method that restricted competition to small business concerns owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans, qualified HUBZone small business concerns, small business concerns owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, small business concerns owned and controlled by women, or a subset of any such concerns;”;<br />
<br />
(2) in clause (ii)—<br />
<br />
(A) in subclause (IV), by striking “and” at the end; and<br />
<br />
(B) by adding at the end the following new subclauses:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(VI) that were purchased by another entity after the initial contract was awarded and as a result of the purchase, would no longer be deemed to be small business concerns owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans for purposes of the initial contract; and<br />
<br />
“(VII) that were awarded using a procurement method that restricted competition to qualified HUBZone small business concerns, small business concerns owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, small business concerns owned and controlled by women, or a subset of any such concerns;”;<br />
<br />
(3) in clause (iii)—<br />
<br />
(A) in subclause (V), by striking “and” at the end; and<br />
<br />
(B) by adding at the end the following new subclauses:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(VII) that were purchased by another entity after the initial contract was awarded and as a result of the purchase, would no longer be deemed to be qualified HUBZone small business concerns for purposes of the initial contract; and<br />
<br />
“(VIII) that were awarded using a procurement method that restricted competition to small business concerns owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans, small business concerns owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, small business concerns owned and controlled by women, or a subset of any such concerns;”;<br />
<br />
(4) in clause (iv)—<br />
<br />
(A) in subclause (V), by striking “and” at the end; and<br />
<br />
(B) by adding at the end the following new subclauses:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(VII) that were purchased by another entity after the initial contract was awarded and as a result of the purchase, would no longer be deemed to be small business concerns owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals for purposes of the initial contract; and<br />
<br />
“(VIII) that were awarded using a procurement method that restricted competition to small business concerns owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans, qualified HUBZone small business concerns, small business concerns owned and controlled by women, or a subset of any such concerns;”;<br />
<br />
(5) in clause (v)—<br />
<br />
(A) in subclause (IV), by striking “and” at the end;<br />
<br />
(B) in subclause (V), by inserting “and” at the end; and<br />
<br />
(C) by adding at the end the following new subclause:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(VI) that were purchased by another entity after the initial contract was awarded and as a result of the purchase, would no longer be deemed to be small business concerns owned by an Indian tribe other than an Alaska Native Corporation for purposes of the initial contract;”;<br />
<br />
(6) in clause (vi)—<br />
<br />
(A) in subclause (IV), by striking “and” at the end;<br />
<br />
(B) in subclause (V), by inserting “and” at the end; and<br />
<br />
(C) by adding at the end the following new subclause:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(VI) that were purchased by another entity after the initial contract was awarded and as a result of the purchase, would no longer be deemed to be small business concerns owned by a Native Hawaiian Organization for purposes of the initial contract;”;<br />
<br />
(7) in clause (vii)—<br />
<br />
(A) in subclause (IV), by striking “and” at the end;<br />
<br />
(B) in subclause (V), by striking “and” at the end; and<br />
<br />
(C) by adding at the end the following new subclause:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(VI) that were purchased by another entity after the initial contract was awarded and as a result of the purchase, would no longer be deemed to be small business concerns owned by an Alaska Native Corporation for purposes of the initial contract; and”; and<br />
<br />
(8) in clause (viii)—<br />
<br />
(A) in subclause (VII), by striking “and” at the end;<br />
<br />
(B) in subclause (VIII), by striking “and” at the end; and<br />
<br />
(C) by adding at the end the following new subclauses:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(IX) that were purchased by another entity after the initial contract was awarded and as a result of the purchase, would no longer be deemed to be small business concerns owned and controlled by women for purposes of the initial contract; and<br />
<br />
“(X) that were awarded using a procurement method that restricted competition to small business concerns owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans, qualified HUBZone small business concerns, small business concerns owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, or a subset of any such concerns; and”.<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/1693/text?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22yvette+clarke%22%5D%7D&r=3 Link to bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: Small Business, Committee]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=115-HR1680_Women%E2%80%99s_Business_Centers_Improvement_Act_of_2017&diff=17793115-HR1680 Women’s Business Centers Improvement Act of 20172017-04-14T16:01:58Z<p>Suchen-teh: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=115-HR1680 Women’s Business Centers Improvement Act of 2017<br />
|Proposed in=115<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Knight, Stephen (R-CA-25)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House Small Business<br />
|Has bill status=Proposed<br />
}}<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
115th CONGRESS<br />
1st Session<br />
H. R. 1680<br />
<br />
To amend the Small Business Act to improve the women’s business center program, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES<br />
March 22, 2017<br />
Mr. Knight (for himself and Mr. Lawson of Florida) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Small Business<br />
A BILL<br />
To amend the Small Business Act to improve the women’s business center program, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.<br />
<br />
This Act may be cited as the “Women’s Business Centers Improvements Act of 2017”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 2. OFFICE OF WOMEN’S BUSINESS OWNERSHIP.<br />
<br />
Section 29(g) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 656(g)) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) in paragraph (2), by striking subparagraphs (B) and (C) and inserting the following:<br />
<br />
“(B) RESPONSIBILITIES.—The responsibilities of the Assistant Administrator shall be to administer the programs and services of the Office of Women’s Business Ownership.<br />
<br />
“(C) DUTIES.—The Assistant Administrator shall perform the following functions with respect to the Office of Women’s Business Ownership:<br />
<br />
“(i) Recommend the annual administrative and program budgets of the Office and eligible entities receiving a grant under the Women’s Business Center Program.<br />
<br />
“(ii) Review the annual budgets submitted by each eligible entity receiving a grant under the Women’s Business Center Program.<br />
<br />
“(iii) Select applicants to receive grants to operate a women’s business center after reviewing information required by this section, including the budget of each applicant.<br />
<br />
“(iv) Collaborate with other Federal departments and agencies, State and local governments, not-for-profit organizations, and for-profit enterprises to maximize utilization of taxpayer dollars and reduce (or eliminate) any duplication among the programs overseen by the Office of Women’s Business Ownership and those of other entities that provide similar services to women entrepreneurs.<br />
<br />
“(v) Maintain a clearinghouse to provide for the dissemination and exchange of information between women’s business centers.<br />
<br />
“(vi) Serve as the vice chairperson of the Interagency Committee on Women’s Business Enterprise and as the liaison for the National Women’s Business Council.”; and<br />
<br />
(2) by adding at the end the following:<br />
<br />
“(3) MISSION.—The mission of the Office of Women’s Business Ownership shall be to assist women entrepreneurs to start, grow, and compete in global markets by providing quality support with access to capital, access to markets, job creation, growth, and counseling by—<br />
<br />
“(A) fostering participation of women entrepreneurs in the economy by overseeing a network of women’s business centers throughout States and territories;<br />
<br />
“(B) creating public-private partnerships to support women entrepreneurs and conduct outreach and education to startup and existing small business concerns owned and controlled by women; and<br />
<br />
“(C) working with other programs overseen by the Administrator to ensure women are well-represented and being served and to identify gaps where participation by women could be increased.<br />
<br />
“(4) ACCREDITATION PROGRAM.—<br />
<br />
“(A) ESTABLISHMENT.—Not later than 270 days after the date of enactment of this paragraph, the Administrator shall establish standards for an accreditation program for accrediting eligible entities receiving a grant under this section, after notice and the opportunity for public comment of no less than 60 days.<br />
<br />
“(B) TRANSITION PROVISION.—Before the date on which standards are established under subparagraph (A), the Administrator may not terminate a grant under this section absent evidence of fraud or other criminal misconduct by the recipient.<br />
<br />
“(C) CONTRACTING AUTHORITY.—The Administrator may provide financial assistance, by contract or otherwise, to a relevant national women’s business center representative association to provide assistance in establishing the standards required under subparagraph (A) or for carrying out an accreditation program pursuant to such standards.”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 3. WOMEN’S BUSINESS CENTER PROGRAM.<br />
<br />
(a) Definitions.—Section 29(a) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 656(a)) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) by striking paragraph (4);<br />
<br />
(2) by redesignating paragraphs (2) and (3) as paragraphs (3) and (4), respectively;<br />
<br />
(3) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(2) the term ‘eligible entity’ means—<br />
<br />
“(A) an organization described in section 501(c) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 and exempt from taxation under section 501(a) of such Code;<br />
<br />
“(B) a State, regional, or local economic development organization, so long as the organization certifies that grant funds received under this section will not be co-mingled with other funds;<br />
<br />
“(C) an institution of higher education, unless such institution is currently receiving a grant under section 21;<br />
<br />
“(D) a development, credit, or finance corporation chartered by a State, so long as the corporation certifies that grant funds received under this section will not be co-mingled with other funds; or<br />
<br />
“(E) any combination of entities listed in subparagraphs (A) through (D);”; and<br />
<br />
(4) by adding at the end the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(5) the term ‘women’s business center’ means the location at which counseling and training on the management, operations (including manufacturing, services, and retail), access to capital, international trade, Government procurement opportunities, and any other matter is needed to start, maintain, or expand a small business concern owned and controlled by women.”.<br />
<br />
(b) Authority.—Section 29(b) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 656(b)) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) by redesignating paragraphs (1), (2), and (3) as subparagraphs (A), (B), and (C), respectively, and adjusting the margins accordingly;<br />
<br />
(2) by striking “The Administration” and all that follows through “5-year projects” and inserting the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(1) IN GENERAL.—There is established a Women’s Business Center Program under which the Administrator may provide a grant to any eligible entity to operate one or more women’s business centers”;<br />
<br />
(3) by striking “The projects shall” and inserting the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(2) USE OF FUNDS.—The women’s business centers shall be designed to provide counseling and training that meets the needs of women, especially socially or economically disadvantaged women, and shall”; and<br />
<br />
(4) by adding at the end the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(3) AMOUNT OF GRANTS.—<br />
<br />
“(A) IN GENERAL.—The amount of a grant provided under this subsection to an eligible entity per project year shall be not more than $185,000 (as such amount is annually adjusted by the Administrator to reflect the change in inflation).<br />
<br />
“(B) ADDITIONAL GRANTS.—<br />
<br />
“(i) IN GENERAL.—Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), with respect to an eligible entity that has received $185,000 in grants under this subsection in a project year, the Administrator may award an additional grant under this subsection of up to $65,000 during such project year if the Administrator determines that the eligible entity—<br />
<br />
“(I) agrees to obtain, after its application has been approved and notice of award has been issued, cash contributions from non-Federal sources of 1 non-Federal dollar for each Federal dollar;<br />
<br />
“(II) is in good standing with the Women’s Business Center Program; and<br />
<br />
“(III) has met performance goals for the previous project year, if applicable.<br />
<br />
“(ii) LIMITATIONS.—The Administrator may only award additional grants under clause (i)—<br />
<br />
“(I) during the 3rd and 4th quarters of the fiscal year; and<br />
<br />
“(II) from unobligated amounts made available to the Administrator to carry out this section.<br />
<br />
“(4) NOTICE AND COMMENT REQUIRED.—The Administrator may only make a change to the standards by which an eligible entity obtains or maintains grants under this section, the standards for accreditation, or any other requirement for the operation of a women’s business center if the Administrator first provides notice and the opportunity for public comment, as set forth in section 553(b) of title 5, United States Code, without regard to any exceptions provided for under such section.”.<br />
<br />
(c) Conditions Of Participation.—Section 29(c) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 656(c)) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) in paragraph (1)—<br />
<br />
(A) by striking “the recipient organization” and inserting “an eligible entity”; and<br />
<br />
(B) by striking “financial assistance” and inserting “a grant”;<br />
<br />
(2) in paragraph (3)—<br />
<br />
(A) by striking “financial assistance authorized pursuant to this section may be made by grant, contract, or cooperative agreement and” and inserting “grants authorized pursuant to this section”; and<br />
<br />
(B) in the second sentence, by striking “a recipient organization” and inserting “an eligible entity”;<br />
<br />
(3) in paragraph (4)—<br />
<br />
(A) by striking “recipient of assistance” and inserting “eligible entity”;<br />
<br />
(B) by striking “during any project, it shall not be eligible thereafter” and inserting “during any project for 2 consecutive years, the eligible entity shall not be eligible at any time after that 2-year period”;<br />
<br />
(C) by striking “such organization” and inserting “the eligible entity”; and<br />
<br />
(D) by striking “the recipient” and inserting “the eligible entity”; and<br />
<br />
(4) by adding at end the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(5) SEPARATION OF PROJECT AND FUNDS.—An eligible entity shall—<br />
<br />
“(A) carry out a project under this section separately from other projects, if any, of the eligible entity; and<br />
<br />
“(B) separately maintain and account for any grants under this section.<br />
<br />
“(6) EXAMINATION OF ELIGIBLE ENTITIES.—<br />
<br />
“(A) REQUIRED SITE VISIT.—Each applicant, prior to receiving a grant under this section, shall have a site visit by an employee of the Administration, in order to ensure that the applicant has sufficient resources to provide the services for which the grant is being provided.<br />
<br />
“(B) ANNUAL REVIEW.—An employee of the Administration shall—<br />
<br />
“(i) conduct an annual review of the compliance of each eligible entity receiving a grant under this section with the grant agreement, including a financial examination; and<br />
<br />
“(ii) provide such review to the eligible entity as required under subsection (l).<br />
<br />
“(7) REMEDIATION OF PROBLEMS.—<br />
<br />
“(A) PLAN OF ACTION.—If a review of an eligible entity under paragraph (6)(B) identifies any problems, the eligible entity shall, within 45 calendar days of receiving such review, provide the Assistant Administrator with a plan of action, including specific milestones, for correcting such problems.<br />
<br />
“(B) PLAN OF ACTION REVIEW BY THE ASSISTANT ADMINISTRATOR.—The Assistant Administrator shall review each plan of action submitted under subparagraph (A) within 30 calendar days of receiving such plan and—<br />
<br />
“(i) if the Assistant Administrator determines that such plan will bring the eligible entity into compliance with all the terms of the grant agreement, approve such plan;<br />
<br />
“(ii) if the Assistant Administrator determines that such plan is inadequate to remedy the problems identified in the annual review to which the plan of action relates, the Assistant Administrator shall set forth such reasons in writing and provide such determination to the eligible entity within 15 calendar days of such determination.<br />
<br />
“(C) AMENDMENT TO PLAN OF ACTION.—An eligible entity receiving a determination under subparagraph (B)(ii) shall have 30 calendar days from the receipt of the determination to amend the plan of action to satisfy the problems identified by the Assistant Administrator and resubmit such plan to the Assistant Administrator.<br />
<br />
“(D) AMENDED PLAN REVIEW BY THE ASSISTANT ADMINISTRATOR.—Within 15 calendar days of the receipt of an amended plan of action under subparagraph (C), the Assistant Administrator shall either approve or reject such plan and provide such approval or rejection in writing to the eligible entity.<br />
<br />
“(E) APPEAL OF ASSISTANT ADMINISTRATOR DETERMINATION.—<br />
<br />
“(i) IN GENERAL.—If the Assistant Administrator rejects an amended plan under subparagraph (D), the eligible entity shall have the opportunity to appeal such decision to the Administrator, who may delegate such appeal to an appropriate officer of the Administration.<br />
<br />
“(ii) OPPORTUNITY FOR EXPLANATION.—Any appeal described under clause (i) shall provide an opportunity for the eligible entity to provide, in writing, an explanation of why the eligible entity’s plan remedies the problems identified in the annual review.<br />
<br />
“(iii) NOTICE OF DETERMINATION.—The determination of the appeal shall be provided to the eligible entity, in writing, within 15 calendar days from the eligible entity’s filing of the appeal.<br />
<br />
“(iv) EFFECT OF FAILURE TO ACT.—If the Administrator fails to act on an appeal made under this subparagraph within the 15-calendar-day period specified under clause (iii), the eligible entity’s amended plan of action submitted under subparagraph (C) shall be deemed to be approved.<br />
<br />
“(8) TERMINATION OF GRANT.—<br />
<br />
“(A) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator shall issue regulations (after providing an opportunity for notice and comment) to provide that, if an eligible entity fails to comply with a plan of action approved by the Assistant Administrator under paragraph (7)(B)(i) or an amended plan of action approved by the Assistant Administrator under paragraph (7)(D) or approved on appeal under paragraph (7)(E), the Assistant Administrator shall terminate the grant provided to the eligible entity under this section.<br />
<br />
“(B) APPEAL OF TERMINATION.—An eligible entity that has a grant terminated under subparagraph (A) shall have the opportunity to challenge the termination on the record and after an opportunity for a hearing.<br />
<br />
“(C) FINAL AGENCY ACTION.—The determination made pursuant to subparagraph (B) shall be considered final agency action for the purposes of chapter 7, title 5, United States Code.”.<br />
<br />
(d) Submission Of 5-Year Plan.—Section 29(e) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 656(e)) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) by striking “applicant organization” and inserting “eligible entity”;<br />
<br />
(2) by striking “a recipient organization” and inserting “an eligible entity”;<br />
<br />
(3) by striking “financial assistance” and inserting “grants”; and<br />
<br />
(4) by striking “site”.<br />
<br />
(e) Applications And Criteria For Initial Grant.—Subsection (f) of section 29 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 656) is amended to read as follows:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(f) Applications And Criteria For Initial Grant.—<br />
<br />
“(1) APPLICATION.—Each eligible entity desiring a grant under subsection (b) shall submit to the Administrator an application that contains—<br />
<br />
“(A) a certification that the eligible entity—<br />
<br />
“(i) has designated an executive director or program manager, who may be compensated using grant funds under subsection (b) or other sources, to manage the women’s business center for which a grant under subsection (b) is sought;<br />
<br />
“(ii) meets the accounting and reporting requirements established by the Director of the Office of Management and Budget;<br />
<br />
“(B) information demonstrating that the eligible entity has the ability and resources to meet the needs of the market to be served by the women’s business center, including the ability to obtain the non-Federal contribution required under subsection (c);<br />
<br />
“(C) information relating to the assistance to be provided by the women’s business center in the area in which the women’s business center is located;<br />
<br />
“(D) information demonstrating the experience and effectiveness of the eligible entity in—<br />
<br />
“(i) conducting the services described under subsection (a)(5);<br />
<br />
“(ii) providing training and services to a representative number of women who are socially or economically disadvantaged; and<br />
<br />
“(iii) working with resource partners of the Administration and other entities, such as universities; and<br />
<br />
“(E) a 5-year plan that describes the ability of the eligible entity to provide the services described under subsection (a)(3), including to a representative number of women who are socially or economically disadvantaged.<br />
<br />
“(2) REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF APPLICATIONS FOR INITIAL GRANTS.—<br />
<br />
“(A) REVIEW AND SELECTION OF ELIGIBLE ENTITIES.—<br />
<br />
“(i) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator shall review applications to determine whether the applicant can meet obligations to perform the activities required by a grant under this section, including—<br />
<br />
“(I) the experience of the applicant in conducting activities required by this section;<br />
<br />
“(II) the amount of time needed for the applicant to commence operations should it be awarded a grant;<br />
<br />
“(III) the capacity of the applicant to meet the accreditation standards established by the Administrator in a timely manner;<br />
<br />
“(IV) the ability of the applicant to sustain operations for more than 5 years (including its ability to obtain sufficient non-Federal funds for that period);<br />
<br />
“(V) the location of the women’s business center and its proximity to other grant recipients under this section; and<br />
<br />
“(VI) the population density of the area to be served by the women’s business center.<br />
<br />
“(ii) SELECTION CRITERIA.—<br />
<br />
“(I) RULEMAKING.—The Administrator shall issue regulations (after providing an opportunity for notice and comment) to specify the criteria for review and selection of applicants under this subsection.<br />
<br />
“(II) MODIFICATIONS PROHIBITED AFTER ANNOUNCEMENT.—With respect to a public announcement of any opportunity to be awarded a grant under this section made by the Administrator pursuant to subsection (l)(1), the Administrator may not modify regulations issued pursuant to subclause (I) with respect to such opportunity unless required to do so by an Act of Congress or an order of a Federal court.<br />
<br />
“(III) RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.—Nothing in this clause may be construed as prohibiting the Administrator from modifying the regulations issued pursuant to subclause (I) (after providing an opportunity for notice and comment) as such regulations apply to an opportunity to be awarded a grant under this section that the Administrator has not yet publicly announced pursuant to subsection (l)(1).<br />
<br />
“(B) RECORD RETENTION.—<br />
<br />
“(i) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator shall maintain a copy of each application submitted under this subsection for not less than 5 years.<br />
<br />
“(ii) PAPERWORK REDUCTION.—The Administrator shall take steps to reduce, to the maximum extent practicable, the paperwork burden associated with carrying out clause (i).”.<br />
<br />
(f) Notification Requirements Under The Women’s Business Center Program.—Section 29 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 656) is amended by inserting after subsection (k) the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(l) Notification Requirements Under The Women’s Business Center Program.—The Administrator shall provide—<br />
<br />
“(1) a public announcement of any opportunity to be awarded grants under this section, and such announcement shall include the standards by which such award will be made, including the regulations issued pursuant to subsection (f)(2)(A)(ii);<br />
<br />
“(2) the opportunity for any applicant for a grant under this section that failed to obtain such a grant a debriefing with the Assistant Administrator to review the reasons for the applicant’s failure; and<br />
<br />
“(3) with respect to any site visit or evaluation of an eligible entity receiving a grant under this section that is carried out by an officer or employee of the Administration (other than the Inspector General), a copy of the site visit report or evaluation, as applicable, within 30 calendar days of the completion of such vision or evaluation.”.<br />
<br />
(g) Continued Funding For Centers.—Section 29(m) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 656(m)) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) by striking paragraph (3) and inserting the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(3) APPLICATION AND APPROVAL FOR CONTINUATION GRANTS.—<br />
<br />
“(A) SOLICITATION OF APPLICATIONS.—The Administrator shall solicit applications and award continuation grants under this subsection for the first fiscal year beginning after the date of enactment of this paragraph, and every third fiscal year thereafter.<br />
<br />
“(B) CONTENTS OF APPLICATION.—Each eligible entity desiring a grant under this subsection shall submit to the Administrator an application that contains—<br />
<br />
“(i) a certification that the applicant—<br />
<br />
“(I) is an eligible entity;<br />
<br />
“(II) has designated an executive director or program manager to manage the women’s business center operated by the applicant; and<br />
<br />
“(III) as a condition of receiving a grant under this subsection, agrees—<br />
<br />
“(aa) to receive a site visit as part of the final selection process, at the discretion of the Administrator; and<br />
<br />
“(bb) to remedy any problem identified pursuant to the site visit under item (aa);<br />
<br />
“(ii) information demonstrating that the applicant has the ability and resources to meet the needs of the market to be served by the women’s business center for which a grant under this subsection is sought, including the ability to obtain the non-Federal contribution required under paragraph (4)(C);<br />
<br />
“(iii) information relating to assistance to be provided by the women’s business center in the geographic area served by the women’s business center for which a grant under this subsection is sought;<br />
<br />
“(iv) information demonstrating that the applicant has worked with resource partners of the Administration and other entities;<br />
<br />
“(v) a 3-year plan that describes the services provided by the women’s business center for which a grant under this subsection is sought—<br />
<br />
“(I) to serve women who are business owners or potential business owners by conducting training and counseling activities; and<br />
<br />
“(II) to provide training and services to a representative number of women who are socially or economically disadvantaged; and<br />
<br />
“(vi) any additional information that the Administrator may reasonably require.<br />
<br />
“(C) REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF APPLICATIONS FOR GRANTS.—<br />
<br />
“(i) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator—<br />
<br />
“(I) shall review each application submitted under subparagraph (B), based on the information described in such subparagraph and the criteria set forth under clause (ii) of this subparagraph; and<br />
<br />
“(II) as part of the final selection process, may, at the discretion of the Administrator, conduct a site visit to each women’s business center for which a grant under this subsection is sought, in particular to evaluate the women’s business center using the selection criteria described in clause (ii)(II).<br />
<br />
“(ii) SELECTION CRITERIA.—<br />
<br />
“(I) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator shall evaluate applicants for grants under this subsection in accordance with selection criteria that are—<br />
<br />
“(aa) established before the date on which applicants are required to submit the applications;<br />
<br />
“(bb) stated in terms of relative importance; and<br />
<br />
“(cc) publicly available and stated in each solicitation for applications for grants under this subsection made by the Administrator.<br />
<br />
“(II) REQUIRED CRITERIA.—The selection criteria for a grant under this subsection shall include—<br />
<br />
“(aa) the total number of entrepreneurs served by the applicant;<br />
<br />
“(bb) the total number of new startup companies assisted by the applicant;<br />
<br />
“(cc) the percentage of clients of the applicant that are socially or economically disadvantaged;<br />
<br />
“(dd) the percentage of individuals in the community served by the applicant who are socially or economically disadvantaged;<br />
<br />
“(ee) the successful accreditation of the applicant under the accreditation program developed under subsection (g)(5); and<br />
<br />
“(ff) any additional criteria that the Administrator may reasonably require.<br />
<br />
“(iii) CONDITIONS FOR CONTINUED FUNDING.—In determining whether to make a grant under this subsection, the Administrator—<br />
<br />
“(I) shall consider the results of the most recent evaluation of the women’s business center for which a grant under this subsection is sought, and, to a lesser extent, previous evaluations; and<br />
<br />
“(II) may withhold a grant under this subsection, if the Administrator determines that the applicant has failed to provide the information required to be provided under this paragraph, or the information provided by the applicant is inadequate.<br />
<br />
“(D) NOTIFICATION.—Not later than 60 calendar days after the date of each deadline to submit applications under this paragraph, the Administrator shall approve or deny each submitted application and notify the applicant for each such application of the approval or denial.<br />
<br />
“(E) RECORD RETENTION.—<br />
<br />
“(i) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator shall maintain a copy of each application submitted under this paragraph for not less than 5 years.<br />
<br />
“(ii) PAPERWORK REDUCTION.—The Administrator shall take steps to reduce, to the maximum extent practicable, the paperwork burden associated with carrying out clause (i).”; and<br />
<br />
(2) by striking paragraph (5) and inserting the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(5) AWARD TO PREVIOUS RECIPIENTS.—There shall be no limitation on the number of times the Administrator may award a grant to an applicant under this subsection.”.<br />
<br />
(h) Technical And Conforming Amendments.—Section 29 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 656) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) in subsection (h)(2), by striking “to award a contract (as a sustainability grant) under subsection (l) or”;<br />
<br />
(2) in subsection (j)(1), by striking “The Administration” and inserting “Not later than November 1 of each year, the Administrator”;<br />
<br />
(3) in subsection (k)—<br />
<br />
(A) by striking paragraphs (1) and (4);<br />
<br />
(B) by inserting before paragraph (2) the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(1) IN GENERAL.—There are authorized to be appropriated to the Administration to carry out this section, to remain available until expended, $21,750,000 for each of fiscal years 2018 through 2021.”; and<br />
<br />
(C) in paragraph (2), by striking subparagraph (B) and inserting the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(B) EXCEPTIONS.—Of the amount made available under this subsection for a fiscal year, the following amounts shall be available for selection panel costs, costs associated with maintaining an accreditation program, and post-award conference costs:<br />
<br />
“(i) For the first fiscal year beginning after the date of the enactment of this subparagraph, 2.65 percent.<br />
<br />
“(ii) For the second fiscal year beginning after the date of the enactment of this subparagraph and each fiscal year thereafter through fiscal year 2021, 2.5 percent.”; and<br />
<br />
(4) in subsection (m)—<br />
<br />
(A) in paragraph (2), by striking “subsection (b) or (l)” and inserting “this subsection or subsection (b)”; and<br />
<br />
(B) in paragraph (4)(D), by striking “or subsection (l)”.<br />
<br />
(i) Effect On Existing Grants.—<br />
<br />
(1) TERMS AND CONDITIONS.—A nonprofit organization receiving a grant under section 29(m) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 656(m)), as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of this Act, shall continue to receive the grant under the terms and conditions in effect for the grant on the day before the date of enactment of this Act, except that the nonprofit organization may not apply for a continuation of the grant under section 29(m)(5) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 656(m)(5)), as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of this Act.<br />
<br />
(2) LENGTH OF CONTINUATION GRANT.—The Administrator of the Small Business Administration may award a grant under section 29(m) of the Small Business Act to a nonprofit organization receiving a grant under section 29(m) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 656(m)), as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of this Act, for the period—<br />
<br />
(A) beginning on the day after the last day of the grant agreement under such section 29(m); and<br />
<br />
(B) ending at the end of the third fiscal year beginning after the date of enactment of this Act.<br />
<br />
SEC. 4. MATCHING REQUIREMENTS UNDER WOMEN’S BUSINESS CENTER PROGRAM.<br />
<br />
(a) In General.—Section 29(c) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 656(c)), as amended by section 3 of this Act, is further amended—<br />
<br />
(1) in paragraph (1), by striking “As a condition” and inserting “Subject to paragraph (6), as a condition”; and<br />
<br />
(2) by adding at the end the following:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(9) WAIVER OF NON-FEDERAL SHARE.—<br />
<br />
“(A) IN GENERAL.—Upon request by an eligible entity, and in accordance with this paragraph, the Administrator may waive, in whole or in part, the requirement to obtain non-Federal funds under this subsection for counseling and training activities of the eligible entity carried out using a grant under this section for a fiscal year. The Administrator may not waive the requirement for an eligible entity to obtain non-Federal funds under this paragraph for more than a total of 2 consecutive fiscal years.<br />
<br />
“(B) CONSIDERATIONS.—In determining whether to waive the requirement to obtain non-Federal funds under this paragraph, the Administrator shall consider—<br />
<br />
“(i) the economic conditions affecting the eligible entity;<br />
<br />
“(ii) the impact a waiver under this paragraph would have on the credibility of the Women’s Business Center Program under this section;<br />
<br />
“(iii) the demonstrated ability of the eligible entity to raise non-Federal funds; and<br />
<br />
“(iv) the performance of the eligible entity.<br />
<br />
“(C) LIMITATION.—The Administrator may not waive the requirement to obtain non-Federal funds under this paragraph if granting the waiver would undermine the credibility of the Women’s Business Center Program.<br />
<br />
“(10) SOLICITATION.—Notwithstanding any other provision of law, eligible entity may—<br />
<br />
“(A) solicit cash and in-kind contributions from private individuals and entities to be used to carry out the activities of the eligible entity under the project conducted under this section; and<br />
<br />
“(B) use amounts made available by the Administrator under this section for the cost of such solicitation and management of the contributions received.<br />
<br />
“(11) EXCESS NON-FEDERAL DOLLARS.—The amount of non-Federal dollars obtained by an eligible entity that is above the amount that is required to be obtained by the eligible entity under this subsection shall not be subject to the requirements of part 200 of title 2, Code of Federal Regulations, or any successor thereto, if such amount of non-Federal dollars—<br />
<br />
“(A) is not used as matching funds for purposes of implementing the Women’s Business Center Program; and<br />
<br />
“(B) was not obtained using funds from the Women’s Business Center Program.”.<br />
<br />
(b) Regulations.—<br />
<br />
(1) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator of Small Business Administration shall—<br />
<br />
(A) except as provided in paragraph (2), and not later than 270 days after the date of enactment of this Act, publish in the Federal Register proposed regulations by the Administrator to carry out the amendments made to section 29 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 656) by this Act; and<br />
<br />
(B) accept public comments on such proposed regulations for not less than 60 days.<br />
<br />
(2) EXISTING PROPOSED REGULATIONS.—Paragraph (1)(A) shall not apply to the extent proposed regulations by the Administrator have been published on the date of enactment of this Act that are sufficient to carry out the amendments made to section 29 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 656) by this Act.<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/1680?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22Womens+Business+Centers+Improvement+Act+of+2017%22%5D%7D&r=1 Link to bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: Small Business, Committee]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=115-HR1641_Defining_Business_Opportunity_Specialists&diff=17791115-HR1641 Defining Business Opportunity Specialists2017-04-14T16:01:07Z<p>Suchen-teh: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=15-HR1641 Defining Business Opportunity Specialists<br />
|Proposed in=115<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Waters, Maxine (D-CA-43)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House Small Business<br />
|Has bill status=Proposed<br />
}}<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
115th CONGRESS<br />
1st Session<br />
H. R. 1641<br />
<br />
To amend the Small Business Act to clarify the responsibilities of Business Opportunity Specialists, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES<br />
March 20, 2017<br />
Ms. Maxine Waters of California (for herself and Ms. Velázquez) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Small Business<br />
<br />
A BILL<br />
To amend the Small Business Act to clarify the responsibilities of Business Opportunity Specialists, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
SECTION 1. RESPONSIBILITIES OF BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY SPECIALISTS.<br />
<br />
Section 4(g) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 633(g)) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) in the subsection heading, by striking “Certification Requirements For”;<br />
<br />
(2) in paragraph (2)—<br />
<br />
(A) by redesignating subparagraphs (A) and (B) as clauses (i) and (ii), respectively (and conforming the margins accordingly);<br />
<br />
(B) by amending clause (ii) (as so redesignated) to read as follows:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(ii) APPLICATION.—The requirements of clause (i) shall be included in any initial job posting for the position of a Business Opportunity Specialist and shall apply to any person appointed as a Business Opportunity Specialist after January 3, 2013.”; and<br />
<br />
(C) in clause (i) (as so redesignated), by striking “paragraph (1)” and inserting “subparagraph (A)”;<br />
<br />
(3) by redesignating paragraphs (1) and (2) as subparagraphs (A) and (B), respectively (and conforming the margins accordingly);<br />
<br />
(4) in subparagraph (A) (as so redesignated), by striking “paragraph (2)” and inserting “subparagraph (B)”; and<br />
<br />
(5) by inserting before subparagraph (A) (as so redesignated) the following:<br />
<br />
“(1) DUTIES.—The exclusive duties of a Business Opportunity Specialist employed by the Administrator and reporting to the senior official appointed by the Administrator with responsibilities under sections 8, 15, 31, and 36 (or the designee of such official) shall be to implement sections 7, 8, and 45 and to complete other duties related to contracting programs under this Act. Such duties shall include—<br />
<br />
“(A) with respect to small business concerns eligible to receive contracts and subcontracts pursuant to section 8(a)—<br />
<br />
“(i) providing guidance, counseling, and referrals for assistance with technical, management, financial, or other matters that will improve the competitive viability of such concerns;<br />
<br />
“(ii) identifying causes of success or failure of such concerns;<br />
<br />
“(iii) providing comprehensive assessments of such concerns, including identifying the strengths and weaknesses of such concerns;<br />
<br />
“(iv) monitoring and documenting compliance with the requirements of sections 7 and 8 and any regulations implementing those sections;<br />
<br />
“(v) explaining the requirements of sections 7, 8, 15, 31, 36, and 45; and<br />
<br />
“(vi) advising on compliance with contracting regulations (including the Federal Acquisition Regulation) after award of such a contract or subcontract;<br />
<br />
“(B) reviewing and monitoring compliance with mentor-protege agreements under section 45;<br />
<br />
“(C) representing the interests of the Administrator and small business concerns in the award, modification, and administration of contracts and subcontracts awarded pursuant to section 8(a); and<br />
<br />
“(D) reporting fraud or abuse under section 7, 8, 15, 31, 36, or 45 or any regulations implementing such sections.<br />
<br />
“(2) CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS.—<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/1641/text?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%221641%22%5D%7D&r=1 Link to bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: Small Business, Committee]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=115-HR1640_Unifying_Small_Business_Terminology_Act&diff=17790115-HR1640 Unifying Small Business Terminology Act2017-04-14T16:00:31Z<p>Suchen-teh: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=115-HR1640 Unifying Small Business Terminology Act<br />
|Proposed in=115<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Velazquez, Nydia M. (D-NY-7)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House Small Business<br />
|Has bill status=Proposed<br />
}}<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
115th CONGRESS<br />
1st Session<br />
H. R. 1640<br />
<br />
To amend the Small Business Act to ensure uniformity in procurement terminology, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES<br />
March 20, 2017<br />
Ms. Velázquez introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Small Business<br />
<br />
A BILL<br />
To amend the Small Business Act to ensure uniformity in procurement terminology, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
SECTION 1. UNIFORMITY IN PROCUREMENT TERMINOLOGY.<br />
<br />
(a) In General.—Section 15(j)(1) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 644(j)(1)) is amended by striking “greater than $2,500 but not greater than $100,000” and inserting “greater than the micro-purchase threshold, but not greater than the simplified acquisition threshold”.<br />
<br />
(b) Technical Amendment.—Section 3(m) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 632(m)) is amended to read as follows:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(m) Definitions Pertaining To Contracting.—In this Act:<br />
<br />
“(1) PRIME CONTRACT.—The term ‘prime contract’ has the meaning given such term in section 8701(4) of title 41, United States Code.<br />
<br />
“(2) PRIME CONTRACTOR.—The term ‘prime contractor’ has the meaning given such term in section 8701(5) of title 41, United States Code.<br />
<br />
“(3) SIMPLIFIED ACQUISITION THRESHOLD.—The term ‘simplified acquisition threshold’ has the meaning given such term in section 134 of title 41, United States Code.<br />
<br />
“(4) MICRO-PURCHASE THRESHOLD.—The term ‘micro-purchase threshold’ has the meaning given such term in section 1902(a) of title 41, United States Code.<br />
<br />
“(5) TOTAL PURCHASE AND CONTRACTS FOR PROPERTY AND SERVICES.—The term ‘total purchases and contracts for property and services’ means the total number and total dollar amount of contracts and orders for property and services.”.<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/1640/text?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%221640%22%5D%7D&r=1 Link to bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: Small Business, Committee]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=115-HR1597_The_Commercial_Market_Representatives_Clarification_Act_of_2017&diff=17788115-HR1597 The Commercial Market Representatives Clarification Act of 20172017-04-14T15:58:52Z<p>Suchen-teh: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=115-HR1597 The Commercial Market Representatives Clarification Act of 2017<br />
|Proposed in=115<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Brat, Dave (R-VA-7)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House Small Business<br />
|Has bill status=Proposed<br />
}}<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
<br />
115th CONGRESS<br />
1st Session<br />
H. R. 1597<br />
<br />
To amend the Small Business Act to clarify the responsibilities of commercial market representatives, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES<br />
March 17, 2017<br />
Mr. Brat (for himself, Mrs. Murphy of Florida, and Mr. Knight) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Small Business<br />
<br />
A BILL<br />
To amend the Small Business Act to clarify the responsibilities of commercial market representatives, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.<br />
<br />
This Act may be cited as the “The Commercial Market Representatives Clarification Act”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 2. RESPONSIBILITIES OF COMMERCIAL MARKET REPRESENTATIVES.<br />
<br />
Section 4(h) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 633(h)) is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) in the subsection heading, by striking “Certification Requirements For”;<br />
<br />
(2) in paragraph (2)—<br />
<br />
(A) by redesignating subparagraphs (A) and (B) as clauses (i) and (ii), respectively (and conforming the margins accordingly);<br />
<br />
(B) by amending clause (ii) (as so redesignated) to read as follows:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(B) APPLICATION.—The requirements of clause (i) shall be included in any initial job posting for the position of a commercial market representative and shall apply to any person appointed as a commercial market representative after November 25, 2015.”; and<br />
<br />
(C) in clause (i) (as so redesignated), by striking “paragraph (2)” and inserting “subparagraph (A)”;<br />
<br />
(3) by redesignating paragraphs (1) and (2) as subparagraphs (A) and (B), respectively (and conforming the margins accordingly);<br />
<br />
(4) in subparagraph (A) (as so redesignated), by striking “paragraph (2)” and inserting “subparagraph (B)”; and<br />
<br />
(5) by inserting before subparagraph (A) (as so redesignated) the following:<br />
<br />
“(1) DUTIES.—The principal duties of a commercial market representative employed by the Administrator and reporting to the senior official appointed by the Administrator with responsibilities under sections 8, 15, 31, and 36 (or the designee of such official) shall be to advance the policies established in section 8(d)(1) relating to subcontracting. Such duties shall include—<br />
<br />
“(A) helping prime contractors to find small business concerns that are capable of performing subcontracts;<br />
<br />
“(B) for contractors awarded contracts containing the clause described in section 8(d)(3), providing—<br />
<br />
“(i) counseling on the contractor’s responsibility to maximize subcontracting opportunities for small business concerns;<br />
<br />
“(ii) instruction on methods and tools to identify potential subcontractors that are small business concerns; and<br />
<br />
“(iii) assistance to increase awards to subcontractors that are small business concerns through visits, training, and reviews of past performance;<br />
<br />
“(C) providing counseling on how a small business concern may promote its capacity to contractors awarded contracts containing the clause described in section 8(d)(3); and<br />
<br />
“(D) conducting periodic reviews of contractors awarded contracts containing the clause described in section 8(d)(3) to assess compliance with subcontracting plans required under section 8(d)(6).<br />
<br />
“(2) CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS.—<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/1597?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22The+Commercial+Market+Representatives+Clarification+Act+of+2017%22%5D%7D&r=1 Link to bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: Small Business, Committee]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=115-HR387_Email_Privacy_Act&diff=17785115-HR387 Email Privacy Act2017-04-14T15:26:12Z<p>Suchen-teh: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=115-HR387 Email Privacy Act<br />
|Proposed in=115, 114<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Yoder, Kevin (R-KS-3)<br />
|Reviewing committee=Senate - Judiciary, House - Judiciary<br />
|Has bill status=Proposed<br />
|Has keywords=McCarthy<br />
}}<br />
Amends the Electronic Communications Privacy Act of 1986 to prohibit a provider of remote computing service or electronic communication service to the public from knowingly divulging to a governmental entity the contents of any communication that is in electronic storage or otherwise maintained by the provider, subject to exceptions.<br />
<br />
Revises provisions under which the government may require a provider to disclose the contents of such communications. Eliminates the different requirements applicable under current law depending on whether such communications were: (1) stored for fewer than, or more than, 180 days by an electronic communication service; or (2) held by an electronic communication service as opposed to a remote computing service.<br />
<br />
Requires the government to obtain a warrant from a court before requiring providers to disclose the content of such communications regardless of how long the communication has been held in electronic storage by an electronic communication service or whether the information is sought from an electronic communication service or a remote computing service<br />
<br />
Requires a law enforcement agency, within 10 days after receiving the contents of a customer's communication, or a governmental entity, within 3 days, to provide a customer whose communications were disclosed by the provider a copy of the warrant and a notice that such information was requested by, and supplied to, the government entity. Allows the government to request delays of such notifications.<br />
<br />
Prohibits disclosure requirements that apply to providers from being construed to limit the government's authority to use an administrative or civil discovery subpoena to require: (1) an originator or recipient of an electronic communication to disclose the contents of such communication, or (2) an entity that provides electronic communication services to its employees or agents to disclose the contents of an electronic communication to or from such employee or agent if the communication is on an electronic communications system owned or operated by the entity.<br />
<br />
Allows the government to apply for an order directing a provider, for a specified period, to refrain from notifying any other person that the provider has been required to disclose communications or records.<br />
<br />
Directs the Comptroller General to report to Congress regarding disclosures of customer communications and records under provisions: (1) as in effect before the enactment of this Act, and (2) as amended by this Act.<br />
<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
115th CONGRESS<br />
1st Session<br />
H. R. 387<br />
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES<br />
February 7 (legislative day, February 6), 2017<br />
Received; read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary<br />
<br />
AN ACT<br />
To amend title 18, United States Code, to update the privacy protections for electronic communications information that is stored by third-party service providers in order to protect consumer privacy interests while meeting law enforcement needs, and for other purposes.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.<br />
<br />
This Act may be cited as the “Email Privacy Act”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 2. VOLUNTARY DISCLOSURE CORRECTIONS.<br />
<br />
(a) In General.—Section 2702 of title 18, United States Code, is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) in subsection (a)—<br />
<br />
(A) in paragraph (1)—<br />
<br />
(i) by striking “divulge” and inserting “disclose”; and<br />
<br />
(ii) by striking “while in electronic storage by that service” and inserting “that is in electronic storage with or otherwise stored, held, or maintained by that service”;<br />
<br />
(B) in paragraph (2)—<br />
<br />
(i) by striking “to the public”;<br />
<br />
(ii) by striking “divulge” and inserting “disclose”; and<br />
<br />
(iii) by striking “which is carried or maintained on that service” and inserting “that is stored, held, or maintained by that service”; and<br />
<br />
(C) in paragraph (3)—<br />
<br />
(i) by striking “divulge” and inserting “disclose”; and<br />
<br />
(ii) by striking “a provider of” and inserting “a person or entity providing”;<br />
<br />
(2) in subsection (b)—<br />
<br />
(A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by inserting “wire or electronic” before “communication”;<br />
<br />
(B) by amending paragraph (1) to read as follows:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(1) to an originator, addressee, or intended recipient of such communication, to the subscriber or customer on whose behalf the provider stores, holds, or maintains such communication, or to an agent of such addressee, intended recipient, subscriber, or customer;”; and<br />
<br />
(C) by amending paragraph (3) to read as follows:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(3) with the lawful consent of the originator, addressee, or intended recipient of such communication, or of the subscriber or customer on whose behalf the provider stores, holds, or maintains such communication;”;<br />
<br />
(3) in subsection (c) by inserting “wire or electronic” before “communications”;<br />
<br />
(4) in each of subsections (b) and (c), by striking “divulge” and inserting “disclose”; and<br />
<br />
(5) in subsection (c), by amending paragraph (2) to read as follows:<br />
<br />
<br />
“(2) with the lawful consent of the subscriber or customer;”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 3. AMENDMENTS TO REQUIRED DISCLOSURE SECTION.<br />
<br />
Section 2703 of title 18, United States Code, is amended—<br />
<br />
(1) by striking subsections (a) through (c) and inserting the following:<br />
<br />
“(a) Contents Of Wire Or Electronic Communications In Electronic Storage.—Except as provided in subsections (i) and (j), a governmental entity may require the disclosure by a provider of electronic communication service of the contents of a wire or electronic communication that is in electronic storage with or otherwise stored, held, or maintained by that service only if the governmental entity obtains a warrant issued using the procedures described in the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure (or, in the case of a State court, issued using State warrant procedures) that—<br />
<br />
“(1) is issued by a court of competent jurisdiction; and<br />
<br />
“(2) may indicate the date by which the provider must make the disclosure to the governmental entity.<br />
<br />
In the absence of a date on the warrant indicating the date by which the provider must make disclosure to the governmental entity, the provider shall promptly respond to the warrant.<br />
“(b) Contents Of Wire Or Electronic Communications In A Remote Computing Service.—<br />
<br />
“(1) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided in subsections (i) and (j), a governmental entity may require the disclosure by a provider of remote computing service of the contents of a wire or electronic communication that is stored, held, or maintained by that service only if the governmental entity obtains a warrant issued using the procedures described in the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure (or, in the case of a State court, issued using State warrant procedures) that—<br />
<br />
“(A) is issued by a court of competent jurisdiction; and<br />
<br />
“(B) may indicate the date by which the provider must make the disclosure to the governmental entity.<br />
<br />
In the absence of a date on the warrant indicating the date by which the provider must make disclosure to the governmental entity, the provider shall promptly respond to the warrant.<br />
<br />
“(2) APPLICABILITY.—Paragraph (1) is applicable with respect to any wire or electronic communication that is stored, held, or maintained by the provider—<br />
<br />
“(A) on behalf of, and received by means of electronic transmission from (or created by means of computer processing of communication received by means of electronic transmission from), a subscriber or customer of such remote computing service; and<br />
<br />
“(B) solely for the purpose of providing storage or computer processing services to such subscriber or customer, if the provider is not authorized to access the contents of any such communications for purposes of providing any services other than storage or computer processing.<br />
<br />
“(c) Records Concerning Electronic Communication Service Or Remote Computing Service.—<br />
<br />
“(1) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided in subsections (i) and (j), a governmental entity may require the disclosure by a provider of electronic communication service or remote computing service of a record or other information pertaining to a subscriber to or customer of such service (not including the contents of wire or electronic communications), only—<br />
<br />
“(A) if a governmental entity obtains a warrant issued using the procedures described in the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure (or, in the case of a State court, issued using State warrant procedures) that—<br />
<br />
“(i) is issued by a court of competent jurisdiction directing the disclosure; and<br />
<br />
“(ii) may indicate the date by which the provider must make the disclosure to the governmental entity;<br />
<br />
“(B) if a governmental entity obtains a court order directing the disclosure under subsection (d);<br />
<br />
“(C) with the lawful consent of the subscriber or customer; or<br />
<br />
“(D) as otherwise authorized in paragraph (2).<br />
<br />
“(2) SUBSCRIBER OR CUSTOMER INFORMATION.—A provider of electronic communication service or remote computing service shall, in response to an administrative subpoena authorized by Federal or State statute, a grand jury, trial, or civil discovery subpoena, or any means available under paragraph (1), disclose to a governmental entity the—<br />
<br />
“(A) name;<br />
<br />
“(B) address;<br />
<br />
“(C) local and long distance telephone connection records, or records of session times and durations;<br />
<br />
“(D) length of service (including start date) and types of service used;<br />
<br />
“(E) telephone or instrument number or other subscriber or customer number or identity, including any temporarily assigned network address; and<br />
<br />
“(F) means and source of payment for such service (including any credit card or bank account number),<br />
<br />
of a subscriber or customer of such service.<br />
<br />
“(3) NOTICE NOT REQUIRED.—A governmental entity that receives records or information under this subsection is not required to provide notice to a subscriber or customer.”;<br />
<br />
(2) in subsection (d)—<br />
<br />
(A) by striking “(b) or”;<br />
<br />
(B) by striking “the contents of a wire or electronic communication, or”;<br />
<br />
(C) by striking “sought,” and inserting “sought”; and<br />
<br />
(D) by striking “section” and inserting “subsection”; and<br />
<br />
(3) by adding at the end the following:<br />
<br />
“(h) Notice.—Except as provided in section 2705, a provider of electronic communication service or remote computing service may notify a subscriber or customer of a receipt of a warrant, court order, subpoena, or request under subsection (a), (b), (c), or (d) of this section.<br />
<br />
“(i) Rule Of Construction Related To Legal Process.—Nothing in this section or in section 2702 shall limit the authority of a governmental entity to use an administrative subpoena authorized by Federal or State statute, a grand jury, trial, or civil discovery subpoena, or a warrant issued using the procedures described in the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure (or, in the case of a State court, issued using State warrant procedures) by a court of competent jurisdiction to—<br />
<br />
“(1) require an originator, addressee, or intended recipient of a wire or electronic communication to disclose a wire or electronic communication (including the contents of that communication) to the governmental entity;<br />
<br />
“(2) require a person or entity that provides an electronic communication service to the officers, directors, employees, or agents of the person or entity (for the purpose of carrying out their duties) to disclose a wire or electronic communication (including the contents of that communication) to or from the person or entity itself or to or from an officer, director, employee, or agent of the entity to a governmental entity, if the wire or electronic communication is stored, held, or maintained on an electronic communications system owned, operated, or controlled by the person or entity; or<br />
<br />
“(3) require a person or entity that provides a remote computing service or electronic communication service to disclose a wire or electronic communication (including the contents of that communication) that advertises or promotes a product or service and that has been made readily accessible to the general public.<br />
<br />
“(j) Rule Of Construction Related To Congressional Subpoenas.—Nothing in this section or in section 2702 shall limit the power of inquiry vested in the Congress by article I of the Constitution of the United States, including the authority to compel the production of a wire or electronic communication (including the contents of a wire or electronic communication) that is stored, held, or maintained by a person or entity that provides remote computing service or electronic communication service.”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 4. DELAYED NOTICE.<br />
<br />
Section 2705 of title 18, United States Code, is amended to read as follows:<br />
<br />
Ҥ 2705. Delayed notice<br />
<br />
“(a) In General.—A governmental entity acting under section 2703 may apply to a court for an order directing a provider of electronic communication service or remote computing service to which a warrant, order, subpoena, or other directive under section 2703 is directed not to notify any other person of the existence of the warrant, order, subpoena, or other directive.<br />
<br />
“(b) Determination.—A court shall grant a request for an order made under subsection (a) for delayed notification of up to 180 days if the court determines that there is reason to believe that notification of the existence of the warrant, order, subpoena, or other directive will likely result in—<br />
<br />
“(1) endangering the life or physical safety of an individual;<br />
<br />
“(2) flight from prosecution;<br />
<br />
“(3) destruction of or tampering with evidence;<br />
<br />
“(4) intimidation of potential witnesses; or<br />
<br />
“(5) otherwise seriously jeopardizing an investigation or unduly delaying a trial.<br />
<br />
“(c) Extension.—Upon request by a governmental entity, a court may grant one or more extensions, for periods of up to 180 days each, of an order granted in accordance with subsection (b).”.<br />
<br />
SEC. 5. RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.<br />
<br />
Nothing in this Act or an amendment made by this Act shall be construed to preclude the acquisition by the United States Government of—<br />
<br />
(1) the contents of a wire or electronic communication pursuant to other lawful authorities, including the authorities under chapter 119 of title 18 (commonly known as the “Wiretap Act”), the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (50 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.), or any other provision of Federal law not specifically amended by this Act; or<br />
<br />
(2) records or other information relating to a subscriber or customer of any electronic communication service or remote computing service (not including the content of such communications) pursuant to the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (50 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.), chapter 119 of title 18 (commonly known as the “Wiretap Act”), or any other provision of Federal law not specifically amended by this Act.<br />
<br />
Passed the House of Representatives February 6, 2017.<br />
<br />
Attest: karen l. haas, <br />
Clerk<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/387/ Link to bill text]<br />
<br />
[[Category: McCarthy]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=115-HR1560_Protecting_Cyber_Networks_Act&diff=17784115-HR1560 Protecting Cyber Networks Act2017-04-14T15:25:52Z<p>Suchen-teh: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=115-HR1560 Protecting Cyber Networks Act<br />
|Proposed in=114<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. Nunes, Devin (R-CA-22)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House - Intelligence (Permanent), Senate - Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs<br />
|Has bill status=Died<br />
|Has keywords=McCarthy<br />
}}<br />
==Summary==<br />
<br />
===TITLE I--PROTECTING CYBER NETWORKS ACT===<br />
<br />
Protecting Cyber Networks Act<br />
<br />
====Sec. 102====<br />
Amends the National Security Act of 1947 to require the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) to develop and promulgate procedures to promote: (1) the timely sharing of classified and declassified cyber threat indicators in possession of the federal government with private entities, non-federal government agencies, or state, tribal, or local governments; and (2) the sharing of imminent or ongoing cybersecurity threats with such entities to prevent or mitigate adverse impacts.<br />
<br />
Requires the procedures to provide for: (1) notification to entities when the federal government has shared indicators in error or in contravention of law; and (2) the federal government, prior to sharing indicators, to remove personal information of, or information identifying, a specific person not directly related to a cybersecurity threat.<br />
<br />
Directs the DNI to submit such procedures to Congress within 90 days after enactment of this title.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 103====<br />
Permits private entities to monitor or operate defensive measures to prevent or mitigate cybersecurity threats or security vulnerabilities, or to identify the source of a threat, on: (1) their own information systems; and (2) with written authorization, the information systems of other private or government entities. Authorizes entities to conduct such activities on information that is stored on, processed by, or transiting such monitored systems.<br />
<br />
Prohibits defensive measures from being used to destroy, render unusable or inaccessible, or substantially harm an information system that is not owned by: (1) the operator of the defensive measure, or (2) an entity that authorizes the operation of defensive measures on its systems.<br />
<br />
Allows non-federal entities to share and receive indicators or defensive measures with other non-federal entities or specifically designated federal entities, but does not authorize non-federal entities to share directly with components of the Department of Defense (DOD), including the National Security Agency (NSA). Allows otherwise lawful sharing by non-federal entities of indicators or defensive measures with DOD or the NSA. Requires recipients to comply with lawful restrictions that sharing entities place on the sharing or use of shared indicators or defensive measures.<br />
<br />
Requires non-federal entities monitoring, operating, or sharing indicators or defensive measures: (1) to implement security controls to protect against unauthorized access or acquisitions; and (2) prior to sharing an indicator, to take reasonable efforts to remove information that the non-federal entity reasonably believes to be personal information of, or information identifying, a specific person not directly related to a cybersecurity threat.<br />
<br />
Permits state, tribal, or local agencies to use shared indicators or defensive measures:<br />
*to protect (including through the use of a defensive measure) an information system or information that is stored on, processed by, or transiting an information system from a cybersecurity threat or security vulnerability or to identify the source of a cybersecurity threat;<br />
*to respond to, prosecute, prevent, or mitigate a threat of death or serious bodily harm or an offense arising out of such a threat; or<br />
*to respond to, prevent, or mitigate a serious threat to a minor, including sexual exploitation and threats to physical safety.<br />
<br />
Requires the Small Business Administration (SBA) to provide assistance to small businesses and financial institutions to monitor information systems, operate defensive measures, and share and receive indicators and defensive measures. Directs the SBA to submit to the President a report regarding the degree to which small businesses and financial institutions are able to engage in such sharing. Requires the federal government to conduct outreach to encourage such businesses and institutions to engage in those activities.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 104====<br />
Directs the President to report on procedures for the receipt of cyber threat indicators and defensive measures by the federal government. Requires the procedures to ensure that: (1) cyber threat indicators shared by a non-federal entity with the Department of Commerce, the Department of Energy, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the Department of Justice (DOJ), the Department of the Treasury, and the DNI (but not DOD, including the NSA) are shared in real time with all appropriate federal entities; (2) such indicators are provided to other relevant federal entities; (3) there is an audit capability; and (4) there are appropriate sanctions for federal officers, employees, or agents who use shared indicators or defensive measures in an unauthorized manner.<br />
<br />
Requires DOJ to develop and periodically review privacy and civil liberties guidelines to govern the receipt, retention, use, and dissemination of cyber threat indicators by federal entities, including guidelines to ensure that personal information of, or information identifying, specific persons is properly removed from information received, retained, used, or disseminated by a federal entity.<br />
<br />
Establishes within the Office of the Director of National Intelligence a Cyber Threat Intelligence Integration Center (CTIIC) to serve as the primary organization within the federal government for analyzing and integrating all intelligence possessed or acquired by the United States pertaining to cyber threats. Requires the CTIIC to: (1) ensure that appropriate agencies receive all-source intelligence support to execute cyber threat intelligence activities and perform independent, alternative analyses; (2) disseminate threat analysis to the President, federal agencies, and Congress; and (3) coordinate federal cyber threat intelligence activities and conduct strategic planning.<br />
<br />
Requires the head of the CTIIC to be appointed by the DNI.<br />
<br />
Authorizes indicators or defensive measures to be disclosed to, retained by, and used by, consistent with otherwise applicable federal law, any agency or agent of the federal government solely for:<br />
*protecting an information system or information that is stored on, processed by, or transiting an information system from a cybersecurity threat or security vulnerability or identifying the source of a cybersecurity threat;<br />
*responding to, investigating, prosecuting, or otherwise preventing or mitigating a threat of death or serious bodily harm or an offense arising out of such a threat;<br />
*responding to, investigating, prosecuting, or otherwise preventing or mitigating a serious threat to a minor, including sexual exploitation and threats to physical safety; or<br />
*preventing, investigating, disrupting, or prosecuting specified criminal offenses relating to fraud and identity theft, serious violent felonies, espionage and censorship, or trade secrets.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 105====<br />
Allows a person to bring a private cause of action against the federal government if an agency intentionally or willfully violates DOJ's privacy and civil liberties guidelines.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 106====<br />
Provides liability protections to: (1) private entities that monitor information systems; or (2) non-federal entities that share, receive, or fail, in good faith, to act upon shared indicators or defensive measures.<br />
<br />
Prohibits such liability protections from being construed to apply to willful misconduct.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 107====<br />
Requires reports to Congress, at least biennially, by: (1) the DNI regarding the implementation of the federal government's information sharing procedures, including assessments of any misuse of information or disciplinary actions taken; and (2) inspectors general of specified agencies regarding the receipt, use, and dissemination of indicators and defensive measures that have been shared with federal entities.<br />
<br />
Directs the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board, every two years, to report to Congress and the President regarding the sufficiency of procedures to address privacy and civil liberties concerns.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 108====<br />
Directs the DNI, in a report to Congress regarding cyber threats, attacks, theft, and data breaches, to: (1) assess current U.S. intelligence sharing and cooperation relationships with other countries regarding cybersecurity threats to U.S. national security interests, the economy, and intellectual property; (2) list countries and non-state actors that are primary threats; (3) describe U.S. response and prevention capabilities; and (4) assess additional technologies that would enhance U.S. capabilities, including private sector technologies that could be rapidly fielded to assist the intelligence community.<br />
<br />
Requires unclassified portions of reports under this title to be made publicly available.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 109====<br />
Prohibits this title from being construed to: (1) authorize the federal government to conduct surveillance of a person or allow the intelligence community to target a person for surveillance; (2) limit lawful disclosures of communications or records, including reporting of known or suspected criminal activity, by a non-federal entity to another non-federal entity or the federal government; or (3) permit the federal government to require a non-federal entity to provide information to the federal government.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 111====<br />
Requires the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to report on federal actions to remove personal information from shared cyber threat indicators.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 112====<br />
Terminates the provisions of this title seven years after its enactment.<br />
<br />
===TITLE II--NATIONAL CYBERSECURITY PROTECTION ADVANCEMENT ACT===<br />
<br />
National Cybersecurity Protection Advancement Act of 2015<br />
<br />
====Sec. 202====<br />
Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to allow DHS's national cybersecurity and communications integration center (NCCIC) to include tribal governments, information sharing and analysis centers, and private entities among its non-federal representatives. Expands the composition of the NCCIC to include:<br />
*a collaborator with state and local governments on cybersecurity risks and incidents;<br />
*a U.S. Computer Emergency Readiness Team that coordinates and shares information in a timely manner and provides technical assistance, upon request, to information system owners and operators;<br />
*the Industrial Control System Cyber Emergency Response Team that coordinates with owners and operators of industrial control systems, provides requested training, and remains current on industry adoption of new technologies;<br />
*a National Coordinating Center for Communications that coordinates the protection, response, and recovery of emergency communications; and<br />
*a coordinator of small and medium-sized businesses.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 203====<br />
Requires the NCCIC to be the lead federal civilian interface for multi-directional and cross-sector sharing of information related to cyber threat indicators, defensive measures, and cybersecurity risks for federal and non-federal entities. Expands the NCCIC's functions to include:<br />
*global cybersecurity with international partners;<br />
*information sharing across critical infrastructure sectors, with state and major urban area fusion centers and with small and medium-sized businesses;<br />
*notification to Congress regarding any significant violations of information retention or disclosure policies;<br />
*notification to non-federal entities of indicators or defensive measures shared in error or in contravention of specified requirements; and<br />
*participation in exercises run by DHS's National Exercise Program.<br />
<br />
Excludes from the definition of "cybersecurity risk" violations of consumer terms of service or licensing agreements.<br />
<br />
Requires the NCCIC to designate an agency contact for non-federal entities.<br />
<br />
Directs the NCCIC to: (1) safeguard cybersecurity information against unauthorized disclosure, and (2) work with the Chief Privacy Officer to follow appropriate privacy procedures.<br />
<br />
Requires the Under Secretary for Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Protection (the Under Secretary) to develop capabilities that make use of existing industry standards to advance implementation of automated mechanisms for the timely sharing of indicators and defensive measures to and from the NCCIC and with federal agencies designated as sector specific agencies for critical infrastructure sectors.<br />
<br />
Directs the Under Secretary, every six months, to provide Congress with progress reports regarding the development of such capabilities.<br />
<br />
Authorizes the NCCIC to enter voluntary information sharing relationships with consenting non-federal entities.<br />
<br />
Directs the Under Secretary to develop procedures for coordinating vulnerability disclosures consistent with international standards.<br />
<br />
Allows non-federal entities, for cybersecurity purposes, to share with other non-federal entities or the NCCIC any indicators or defensive measures obtained from: (1) their own information systems; or (2) the information systems of other federal or non-federal entities, with written consent. Authorizes non-federal entities (excluding state, local, or tribal governments) to conduct network awareness to scan, identify, acquire, monitor, log, or analyze information, or to operate defensive measures, on the information systems of entities that provide consent.<br />
<br />
Requires entities, prior to sharing, to take reasonable efforts to: (1) exclude information that can be used to identify specific persons and that is unrelated to cybersecurity risks or incidents, and (2) safeguard information that can be used to identify specific persons from unintended disclosure or unauthorized access or acquisition.<br />
<br />
Directs the Under Secretary to establish and annually review privacy and civil liberties policies governing the receipt, retention, use, and disclosure of cybersecurity information shared with the NCCIC. Provides for such policies to apply only to DHS. Allows the Under Secretary to consult with the National Institute of Standards and Technology on such policies.<br />
<br />
Requires the Chief Privacy Officer to:<br />
*monitor implementation of such privacy and civil liberties policies;<br />
*update privacy impact assessments on a regular basis to ensure that all relevant privacy protections are followed;<br />
*work with the Under Secretary to carry out certain notifications to Congress and non-federal entities;<br />
*submit an annual report to Congress regarding the effectiveness of DHS's privacy and civil liberties policies; and<br />
*ensure appropriate sanctions for DHS officers, employees, or agents who intentionally or willfully conduct activities in an unauthorized manner.<br />
<br />
Directs the DHS Inspector General to periodically report to Congress with a review of the use of cybersecurity risk information shared with the NCCIC.<br />
<br />
Requires the Chief Privacy Officer and the Chief Civil Rights and Civil Liberties Officer to biennially submit a report to Congress that: (1) assesses the privacy and civil liberties impact of DHS's retention, use, and disclosure policies; and (2) recommends methods to minimize or mitigate the impact of sharing indicators and defensive measures.<br />
<br />
Prohibits federal entities from using shared indicators or defensive measures to engage in surveillance or other collection activities for the purpose of tracking an individual's personally identifiable information, except for purposes authorized under this section. Bars the federal government from using such information for regulatory purposes.<br />
<br />
Provides liability protections to non-federal entities (excluding state, local, or tribal governments) acting in accordance with this section that: (1) conduct network awareness, or (2) share indicators or defensive measures or that fail, in good faith, to act based on such sharing.<br />
<br />
Prohibits such liability protections from being construed to apply to willful misconduct.<br />
<br />
Establishes a private cause of action that a person may bring against the federal government if a federal agency intentionally or willfully violates restrictions on the use and protection of voluntarily shared indicators or defensive measures.<br />
<br />
Exempts from antitrust laws non-federal entities that, for cybersecurity purposes, share: (1) cyber threat indicators or defensive measures; or (2) assistance relating to the prevention, investigation, or mitigation of cybersecurity risks or incidents. Makes such exemption inapplicable to price-fixing, allocating a market between competitors, monopolizing or attempting to monopolize a market, or exchanges of price or cost information, customer lists, or information regarding future competitive planning.<br />
<br />
Prohibits this section from being construed to permit the federal government to require a non-federal entity to provide information to a federal entity.<br />
<br />
Requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to: (1) develop procedures for the NCCIC Director to report directly to the Secretary regarding significant cybersecurity risks and incidents, and (2) promote a national awareness effort to educate the general public on the importance of securing information systems.<br />
<br />
Directs DHS to report to Congress on the range of efforts underway to bolster cybersecurity collaboration with relevant international partners.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 204====<br />
Expands the purpose of information sharing and analysis organizations to include responsibilities for disseminating information about cybersecurity risks and incidents.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 205====<br />
Redesignates DHS's National Protection and Programs Directorate as the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Protection. Requires the President to appoint: (1) the Under Secretary, with the advice and consent of the Senate; and (2) the Deputy Under Secretaries for Cybersecurity and for Infrastructure Protection, without the advice and consent of the Senate. Requires the Under Secretary to report to Congress regarding the feasibility of becoming an operational component.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 206====<br />
Requires the Secretary to regularly update, maintain, and exercise the Cyber Incident Annex to DHS's National Response Framework.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 207====<br />
Requires the NCCIC to facilitate improvements to the security and resiliency of public safety communications.<br />
<br />
Directs the Under Secretary to implement a cybersecurity awareness campaign to disseminate: (1) public service announcements targeted at state, local, and tribal governments, the private sector, academia, and stakeholders in specific audiences, including the elderly, students, small businesses, members of the Armed Forces, and veterans; and (2) vendor and technology-neutral voluntary best practices.<br />
<br />
Requires DHS to establish a National Cybersecurity Preparedness Consortium to:<br />
*train state and local first responders and officials to prepare for and respond to cyber attacks,<br />
*develop a curriculum utilizing the DHS-sponsored Community Cyber Security Maturity Model,<br />
*provide technical assistance,<br />
*conduct cybersecurity training and simulation exercises,<br />
*coordinate with the NCCIC to help states and communities develop information sharing programs, and<br />
*coordinate with the National Domestic Preparedness Consortium to incorporate cybersecurity emergency responses into existing state and local emergency management functions.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 208====<br />
Directs the Under Secretary for Science and Technology to biennially provide to Congress an updated strategic plan to guide the overall direction of federal physical security and cybersecurity technology research and development efforts for protecting critical infrastructure. Requires the plan to:<br />
*identify critical infrastructure security risks and any associated security technology gaps;<br />
*prioritize technology needs based on gaps, risks, evolving threats, and technology advancements;<br />
*include research, development, and acquisition roadmaps with clearly defined objectives, goals, and measures;<br />
*identify laboratories, facilities, modeling, and simulation capabilities required to support new technologies; and<br />
*identify programmatic initiatives for the rapid advancement and deployment of security technologies for critical infrastructure protection, including public-private partnerships, intragovernment collaboration, university centers of excellence, and national laboratory technology transfers.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 209====<br />
Requires DHS to report to Congress regarding the feasibility of DHS reducing cybersecurity risks in DHS data centers, including by increasing compartmentalization between systems and providing a mix of security controls between such compartments.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 210====<br />
Directs the GAO to report on DHS's implementation of this title, including any findings regarding increases in sharing at the NCCIC and throughout the United States.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 211====<br />
Requires the Under Secretary to produce a report on the feasibility of creating a risk-informed prioritization plan should multiple critical infrastructures experience cyber incidents simultaneously.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 212====<br />
Directs the DHS Inspector General to review operations of the U.S. Computer Emergency Readiness Team and the Industrial Control Systems Cyber Emergency Response Team to assess the capacity to provide technical assistance to non-federal entities and to adequately respond to potential increases in requests for technical assistance.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 213====<br />
Prohibits this title from being construed to grant DHS any authority to promulgate regulations or set standards relating to the cybersecurity of non-federal entities (excluding state, local, and tribal governments) that were not in effect on the day before the enactment of this title.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 214====<br />
Terminates reporting requirements under this title seven years after enactment of this title.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 216====<br />
Requires DHS to deploy and operate (to make available for use by any federal agency, with or without reimbursement) capabilities to protect federal agency information and information systems, including technologies to continuously diagnose, detect, prevent, and mitigate against cybersecurity risks involving such systems. Authorizes the DHS Secretary to access, and allows federal agency heads to disclose to the Secretary, information traveling to or from or stored on a federal agency information system, regardless of from where the Secretary accesses such information, notwithstanding any law that would otherwise restrict or prevent federal agency heads from disclosing such information to the Secretary.<br />
<br />
Allows a private entity to assist the Secretary in carrying out such activities.<br />
<br />
Authorizes the Secretary to retain, use, and disclose information obtained through the conduct of activities authorized under this section only to protect federal agency information and information systems from cybersecurity risks, or, with DOJ approval and if disclosure of such information is not otherwise prohibited by law, to law enforcement only to investigate, prosecute, disrupt, or otherwise respond to:<br />
*criminal computer fraud;<br />
*an imminent threat of death or serious bodily harm;<br />
*a serious threat to a minor, including sexual exploitation or threats to physical safety; or<br />
*an attempt or conspiracy to commit any of such offenses.<br />
<br />
Provides liability protections to private entities that provide assistance to the Secretary for such purposes.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 217==== Terminates the provisions of this title seven years after its enactment.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 218====<br />
Requires DHS to report to Congress with recommendations to mitigate cybersecurity vulnerabilities for the 10 U.S. ports that are at greatest risk of a cybersecurity incident.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 219==== <br />
Authorizes DHS to consult with sector specific agencies, businesses, and stakeholders to submit to Congress a report on how to align federally funded cybersecurity research and development activities with private sector efforts to protect privacy and civil liberties while assuring security and resilience of the nation's critical infrastructure.<br />
<br />
====Sec. 220====<br />
Directs the GAO to assess the impact on privacy and civil liberties limited to the work of the NCCIC.<br />
<br />
==Bill Text==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/1560/text Link to bill text]<br />
<br />
[[Category: McCarthy]]</div>Suchen-tehhttp://www.edegan.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=115-HR1219_Supporting_America%27s_Innovators_Act&diff=17783115-HR1219 Supporting America's Innovators Act2017-04-14T15:25:43Z<p>Suchen-teh: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Legislation<br />
|Has title=115-HR1219 Supporting America's Innovators Act<br />
|Proposed in=115<br />
|Sponsored by=Rep. McHenry, Patrick T. (R-NC-10)<br />
|Reviewing committee=House - Financial Services<br />
|Has bill status=Proposed<br />
|Has keywords=McCarthy<br />
}}<br />
This bill amends the Investment Company Act of 1940 to exempt from its coverage any issuer whose outstanding securities with respect to a qualifying venture capital fund (other than short-term paper) are beneficially owned by not more than 250 persons.<br />
<br />
The bill defines "qualifying venture capital fund" as one with no more than $10 million (annually adjusted for inflation) in invested capital.<br />
<br />
The bill was previously introduced in the 114th Congress in 2016 where it passed the House. The previous and current bill differ mainly in clause (2)(C) in their clarifications of the term "qualifying venture capital fund" and "venture capital fund". <br />
<br />
==2017 Bill Text==<br />
Congressional Bills 115th Congress<br />
From the U.S. Government Publishing Office<br />
H.R. 1219 Introduced in House (IH)<br />
<br />
115th CONGRESS<br />
1st Session<br />
H. R. 1219<br />
<br />
To amend the Investment Company Act of 1940 to expand the investor <br />
limitation for qualifying venture capital funds under an exemption from <br />
the definition of an investment company.<br />
<br />
<br />
_______________________________________________________________________<br />
<br />
<br />
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES<br />
<br />
February 27, 2017<br />
<br />
Mr. McHenry (for himself and Ms. Velazquez) introduced the following <br />
bill; which was referred to the Committee on Financial Services<br />
<br />
_______________________________________________________________________<br />
<br />
A BILL<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
To amend the Investment Company Act of 1940 to expand the investor <br />
limitation for qualifying venture capital funds under an exemption from <br />
the definition of an investment company.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the <br />
United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
<br />
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.<br />
<br />
This Act may be cited as the ``Supporting America's Innovators Act <br />
of 2017''.<br />
<br />
SEC. 2. INVESTOR LIMITATION FOR QUALIFYING VENTURE CAPITAL FUNDS.<br />
<br />
Section 3(c)(1) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (15 U.S.C. <br />
80a-3(c)(1)) is amended--<br />
(1) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by inserting <br />
``(or, in the case of a qualifying venture capital fund, 250 <br />
persons)'' after ``one hundred persons''; and<br />
(2) by adding at the end the following:<br />
``(C)(i) The term `qualifying venture capital fund' <br />
means a venture capital fund that has not more than <br />
$10,000,000 in aggregate capital contributions and <br />
uncalled committed capital, with such dollar amount to <br />
be indexed for inflation once every 5 years by the <br />
Commission, beginning from a measurement made by the <br />
Commission on a date selected by the Commission, <br />
rounded to the nearest $1,000,000.<br />
``(ii) The term `venture capital fund' has the <br />
meaning given the term in section 275.203(l)-1 of title <br />
17, Code of Federal Regulations, or any successor <br />
regulation.''.<br />
<br />
==2016 Bill Text==<br />
[Congressional Bills 114th Congress]<br />
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]<br />
[H.R. 4854 Received in Senate (RDS)]<br />
<br />
114th CONGRESS<br />
2d Session<br />
H. R. 4854<br />
<br />
<br />
_______________________________________________________________________<br />
<br />
<br />
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES<br />
<br />
July 6, 2016<br />
<br />
Received<br />
<br />
_______________________________________________________________________<br />
<br />
AN ACT<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
To amend the Investment Company Act of 1940 to expand the investor <br />
limitation for qualifying venture capital funds under an exemption from <br />
the definition of an investment company.<br />
<br />
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the <br />
United States of America in Congress assembled,<br />
<br />
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.<br />
<br />
This Act may be cited as the ``Supporting America's Innovators Act <br />
of 2016''.<br />
<br />
SEC. 2. INVESTOR LIMITATION FOR QUALIFYING VENTURE CAPITAL FUNDS.<br />
<br />
Section 3(c)(1) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (15 U.S.C. <br />
80a-3(c)(1)) is amended--<br />
(1) by inserting after ``one hundred persons'' the <br />
following: ``(or, with respect to a qualifying venture capital <br />
fund, 250 persons)''; and<br />
(2) by adding at the end the following:<br />
``(C) The term `qualifying venture capital fund' <br />
means any venture capital fund (as defined pursuant to <br />
section 203(l)(1) of the Investment Advisers Act of <br />
1940 (15 U.S.C. 80b-3(l)(1)) with no more than <br />
$10,000,000 in invested capital, as such dollar amount <br />
is annually adjusted by the Commission to reflect the <br />
change in the Consumer Price Index for All Urban <br />
Consumers published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics <br />
of the Department of Labor.''.<br />
<br />
Passed the House of Representatives July 5, 2016.<br />
<br />
Attest:<br />
<br />
KAREN L. HAAS,<br />
<br />
Clerk.<br />
<br />
<br />
==Resources==<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/1219/ Link to 115th Congress bill page]<br />
[https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/4854 Link to 114th Congress bill page]<br />
<br />
[[Category: Legislation]] [[Category: McCarthy]]</div>Suchen-teh