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United States

Laws

158 ingested laws from United States in 2006. Walk years back as far as this source still publishes.

Law· HRH.R. 6429 (109th)enacted

Fallen Firefighters Assistance Tax Clarification Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 7 April 2025

Fallen Firefighters Assistance Tax Clarification Act of 2006 - Treats payments made to a family member before June 1, 2007, by a charitable foundation on behalf of any firefighter who died in the October 2006 Esperanza Incident in southern California as related to such foundation’s exempt function (and thus tax-exempt) if such payments are made in good faith using a reasonable and objective formula which is consistently applied.

Law· HRH.R. 6407 (109th)enacted

Postal Accountability and Enhancement Act

United States · United States Congress · 7 April 2025

Postal Accountability and Enhancement Act - Prohibts the provision of nonpostal services by the Postal Service, except that the Postal Service may provide nonpostal services offered as of January 1, 2006, subject to a specified review. Requires the the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC, replaces the Postal Rate Commission) to review each nonpostal service, determine whether it shall continue, and designate it as a market-dominant, competitive, or experimental product. Provides for: (1) a modern system for regulating rates and classes for market-dominant products; (2) rates and classes for competitive products; and (3)service standards for market-dominant products. Establishes a revolving Postal Service Competitive Products Fund to be available for competitive products costs. Prohibits the Postal Service from establishing anti-competitive rules or regulations. Subjects it to federal fraud, antitrust, unfair competition requirements. Eliminates its sovereign immunity. Revises qualification requirements for members of the Postal Service Board of Governors. Limits annual combined net increases in the amount of obligations issued for capital improvements and operating expenses. Allows the private carriage of letters in specified circumstances. Amends the Inspector General Act of 1978 to establish an Office of Inspector General in the PRC. Postal Civil Service Retirement and Health Benefits Funding Amendments of 2006 - Relieves the Postal Service of an obligation to contribute matching amounts to its employees' civil service retirement. Provides for the handling of any surplus or supplemental liability of the Postal Service regarding the Civil Service Retirement and Disability Fund. Establishes in the Treasury the Postal Service Retiree Health Benefits Fund to cover the government's contribution for health care costs of current and future retirees.

Law· SS. 4091 (109th)enacted

Social Security Trust Funds Restoration Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 7 April 2025

Social Security Trust Funds Restoration Act of 2006 - Makes appropriations to the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund and the Federal Disability Insurance Trust Fund to restore amounts erroneously overpaid from the Trust Funds to the general fund of the Treasury between 1999 and 2005 as transfers, under the voluntary withholding program, of anticipated taxes on benefit payments under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act.

Law· SS. 4092 (109th)enacted

A bill to clarify certain land use in Jefferson County, Colorado.

United States · United States Congress · 7 April 2025

Allows any person that holds an approved Federal Communications Commission (FCC) permit to construct or install on Lookout Mountain in Jefferson County, Colorado, either a digital television broadcast station antenna or tower, or both, to proceed with such construction, and all associated facilities and services, if such antenna or tower is of the same height or lower than the tallest existing analog broadcast antenna or tower at that location.

Law· SS. 4093 (109th)enacted

A bill to amend the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 to extend a suspension of limitation on the period for which certain borrowers are eligible for guaranteed assistance.

United States · United States Congress · 7 April 2025

Amends the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 to extend through September 30, 2007, a suspension of limitation on the period for which certain borrowers are eligible for guaranteed assistance under the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act.

Law· HRH.R. 6338 (109th)enacted

Geneva Distinctive Emblems Protection Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 7 April 2025

Geneva Distinctive Emblems Protection Act of 2006 - Amends the federal criminal code to prohibit the wearing or displaying of the Red Crescent or the Third Protocol Emblem (the Red Crystal) for the fraudulent purpose of claiming membership in an authorized national society using such emblems. Imposes a fine and/or prison term of up to six month for violations.

Law· HRH.R. 6345 (109th)enacted

To make a conforming amendment to the Federal Deposit Insurance Act with respect to examinations of certain insured depository institutions, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 5 December 2025

Amends the Federal Deposit Insurance Act to increase from $250 million to $500 million the maximum size of a small insured depository institution which the appropriate federal banking agency may subject to a full-scope, on-site examination every 18 months (instead of every 12 months), if the greater amount would be consistent with the principles of institution safety and soundness.

Law· HRH.R. 6344 (109th)enacted

Office of National Drug Control Policy Reauthorization Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 6 June 2025

Office of National Drug Control Policy Reauthorization Act of 2006 - Amends the Office of National Drug Control Policy Reauthorization Act of 1998 to: (1) require the Office of National Drug Control Policy (Office) to develop goals and performance measurements to evaluate the effectiveness of national drug control programs; (2) revise the duties of the Director of the Office and the Deputy Directors; (3) revise requirements for the development, submission, implementation, and assessment of the National Drug Control Strategy; and (4) reauthorize the Office through FY2010. Revises the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas Program to: (1) allow law enforcement agencies to petition for the designation of high intensity drug trafficking areas; (2) authorize the Director to use such Program for terrorism prevention activities; and (3) authorize funding to address emerging drug trafficking threats and to combat methamphetamine trafficking. Dawson Family Community Protection Act - Requires the Director to allocate at least $7 million to high intensity drug trafficking areas with severe neighborhood safety and illegal drug distribution problems. Replaces the Director of Technology of the Counter-Drug Technology Assessment Center with a Chief Scientist. Requires the Chief Scientist to coordinate and implement a counter-drug technology transfer program. Revises requirements for the National Youth Anti-Drug Media Campaign. Authorizes appropriations for the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency and the drug-free communities program. Authorizes the Chief of the National Guard Bureau to establish National Guard counterdrug schools. National Methamphetamine Information Clearinghouse Act of 2006 - Establishes the National Methamphetamine Information Clearinghouse and an Advisory Council to promote information sharing on methamphetamine prevention and treatment. Requires the Director to study, and report to Congress on, various drug control issues, including law enforcement intelligence sharing, the South American and Afghan heroin threat, prescription drug abuse prevention, drug endangered children programs, and school drug testing.

Law· HRH.R. 6342 (109th)enacted

Veterans Programs Extension Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 7 April 2025

Veterans Programs Extension Act of 2006 - Extends for specified periods certain expiring programs of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), including: (1) health care for veteran participants in Department of Defense (DOD) chemical and biological warfare testing; (2) certain assistance for homeless veterans and seriously mentally ill veterans; and (3) the educational assistance allowance for work-study. Expands eligibility under the Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance Program to include the spouse or child of a member who: (1) is hospitalized or receiving outpatient medical care; (2) has a total permanent disability incurred in the line of duty; and (3) is likely to be discharged or released due to such disability. Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to designate specified VA health care facilities as: (1) centers of Parkinson's disease research, education, and clinical activities; and (2) multiple sclerosis centers of excellence. Authorizes the Secretary to carry out specified major medical facility leases in FY2006 and FY2007. Codifies recently enacted VA cost-of-living adjustments in veterans' disability compensation, additional compensation for dependents, the clothing allowance for certain disabled veterans, and dependency and indemnity compensation for surviving spouses and children.

Law· HRH.R. 6326 (109th)enacted

To clarify the provision of nutrition services to older Americans.

United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2025

Requires the Secretary of Agriculture to fulfill, and accept reimbursement from the Secretary of Health and Human Services for, commodity procurement requests for FY2007 submitted by the states and tribal organizations before November 14, 2006, in support of the operation of the nutrition services incentive program authorized under the Older Americans Act of 1965.

Law· SS. 4046 (109th)enacted

Iraq Reconstruction Accountability Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 5 December 2025

Iraq Reconstruction Accountability Act of 2006 - Amends the John Warner National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2007 to change the date for termination of the Office of the Special Inspector General for Iraq Reconstruction (Office). Provides that the Office shall terminate 10 months after 80% of the funds appropriated or made available for the Iraq Relief and Reconstruction Fund have been expended. Requires the Special Inspector General, prior to the termination date of the Office, to prepare a final forensic audit report on all funds appropriated or made available to the Iraq Relief and Reconstruction Fund.

Law· HRH.R. 6316 (109th)enacted

To extend through December 31, 2008, the authority of the Secretary of the Army to accept and expend funds contributed by non-Federal public entities to expedite the processing of permits.

United States · United States Congress · 7 April 2025

Amends the Water Resources Development Act of 2000 to extend through December 31, 2008, the authority of the Secretary of the Army to accept and expend funds contributed by non-federal public entities to expedite the processing of permits for water projects.

Law· SS. 4044 (109th)enacted

Religious Liberty and Charitable Donation Clarification Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 2 January 2025

Religious Liberty and Charitable Donation Clarification Act of 2006 - Amends federal bankruptcy law with respect to calculation of the projected disposable income of an individual with regular income to meet the requirements for court confirmation of a plan for adjustment of the individual's debts. Removes charitable contributions from the statutory formula used to determine what portion of such contributions is reasonably necessary to be expended for such purposes from a debtor's current monthly income. (Thus allows full deduction of such contributions from current monthly income to arrive at disposable income, consistent with the requirements of the Religious Liberty and Charitable Contribution Protection Act of 1998.)

Law· SS. 4001 (109th)enacted

New England Wilderness Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 7 April 2025

New England Wilderness Act of 2006 - Designates specified federal lands managed by the United States Forest Service in the White Mountain National Forest area of New Hampshire as wilderness areas and as components of the National Wilderness Preservation System (lands to be known as the Wild River Wilderness and lands to be incorporated in the Sandwich Range Wilderness). Designates specified federal lands managed by the Forest Service in Vermont as: (1) wilderness areas and National Wilderness Preservation System components (lands to be known as the Glastenbury Wilderness, the Joseph Battell Wilderness, the Breadloaf Wilderness, the Lye Brook Wilderness, the Peru Peak Wilderness, and the Big Branch Wilderness); and (2) the Moosalamoo National Recreation Area.

Law· SS. 4042 (109th)enacted

A bill to amend title 18, United States Code, to prohibit disruptions of funerals of members or former members of the Armed Forces.

United States · United States Congress · 10 August 2026

Amends the federal criminal code to make it unlawful for any person to engage in an activity within 60 minutes before and after, and within a specified distance of, a funeral of a member or former member of the Armed Forces at a cemetery other than a national cemetery that intentionally disburbs or tends to disturb the peace or good order of such funeral or impedes access to such funeral. Imposes a fine and/or prison term of up to one year for violations.

Law· HRH.R. 6198 (109th)referred

Iran Freedom Support Act

United States · United States Congress · 5 December 2025

Iran Freedom Support Act - States that: (1) specified U.S. sanctions, controls, and regulations with respect to Iran shall remain in effect. Authorizes the President to terminate such sanctions in whole or in part upon congressional notification; and (2) nothing in this Act shall affect sanctions, controls, or regulations relating to Iranian support of international terrorism. Amends the Iran and Libya Sanctions Act of 1996 to: (1) eliminate mandatory sanction provisions respecting Libya; (2) impose mandatory sanctions on a person or entity that aids Iran acquire or develop weapons of mass destruction or destabilizing types and numbers of conventional weapons; (3) require that Iran be determined to pose no significant threat to U.S. national security, interests, or allies in order to lift sanctions against entities investing in Iran's petroleum industry; (4) extend the sunset provision; and (5) rename such Act as the Iran Sanctions Act of 1996. Authorizes the President to provide financial and political assistance to eligible foreign and domestic individuals and groups that support democracy in Iran. Expresses the sense of Congress that it should be U.S. policy to: (1) not bring into force an agreement for cooperation with the government of any country that is assisting the nuclear program of Iran or transferring advanced conventional weapons or missiles to Iran; and (2) support independent human rights and peaceful pro-democracy forces in Iran. Includes money laundering activities involved in the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction or missiles in the federal provisions regulating certain monetary transactions.

Law· HRH.R. 6197 (109th)enacted

Older Americans Act Amendments of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2025

Older Americans Act Amendments of 2006 - Reauthorizes the Older Americans Act of 1965. Authorizes appropriations for the Administration on Aging, the National Eldercare Locator Service, pension counseling and information programs, supportive, nutrition, and disease prevention and health promotion services, family caregiver support, nutrition grants to American Indians, Alaskan Natives, and Native Hawaiians, the Native Americans Caregiver Support Program, and vulnerable elder rights protection activities. Reduces each state's guaranteed share of any increase in state allotments for such services above the state's FY2006 allotment. Authorizes the Assistant Secretary for Aging to: (1) designate a person to have responsibility for elder abuse prevention and services; (2) designate an employee to administer mental health services; and (3) establish a National Center on Senior Benefits Outreach and Enrollment. Requires the Assistant Secretary to: (1) implement in all states Aging and Disability Resource Centers; and (2) assist entities in integrated health promotion and disease prevention programs. Repeals the authorization for the Assistant Secretary to provide staff and assistance to the Federal Council on Aging. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish an Interagency Coordinating Committee on Aging. Adds state eligibility requirements for grants for programs on aging, including assuring that particular attention will be given to services to older individuals with limited English proficiency. Revises requirements for area plans. Authorizes area agencies to assess preparedness for change in the number of older individuals over the next ten years. Adds state eligibility requirements for grants for programs on aging. Limits nutrition allotments to the purchase of agricultural commodities and other foods. Requires: (1) states to provide nutrition education, counseling, and services to recipients of meals delivered by state nutrition projects; and (2) the Assistant Secretary to contract with the Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences Food and Nutrition Board to establish an independent panel to study nutrition projects. Requires the Assistant Secretary to provide information on methods of improving indoor air quality in buildings where older individuals congregate. Amends the National Family Caregiver Support Act to include within the definition of "child" individuals with disabilities, decrease the specified age for relative caregivers, and require priority for services to family caregivers of older individuals with Alzheimer's. Requires area agencies to encourage using trained volunteers and to coordinate with specified volunteer programs. Authorizes the Assistant Secretary to make grants to prepare communities for the aging of the population, support the use of health monitoring and technology, improve transportation for seniors, conduct activities of national significance to support caregivers, and build public awareness of cognitive impairments. Requires the Assistant Secretary to award grants for projects for multigenerational and civic engagement activities, mental health programs, and model aging in place projects. Redesignates the Older American Community Service Employment Act as the Community Service Senior Opportunities Act and revises provisions concerning the community service employment program. Authorizes the Assistant Secretary to award grants for elder justice programs and collection of data regarding elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Tom Osborne Federal Youth Coordination Act - Establishes the Federal Youth Development Council to provide advice and recommendations on federal programs designed to serve youth.

Law· SS. 3938 (109th)enacted

Export-Import Bank Reauthorization Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 9 March 2026

Export-Import Bank Reauthorization Act of 2006 - Amends the Export-Import Bank Act of 1945 to extend through FY2011: (1) the general authority for the Export-Import Bank of the United States; (2) the termination date of the Sub-Saharan Africa Advisory Committee; (3) the authority for Bank financing for the export of nonlethal articles or services meant primarily for civilian purposes; and (4) the aggregate loan, guarantee, and insurance authority of the Bank. Establishes a Small Business Division and a Small Business Committee in the Bank to improve financial services to and increase exports by small business concerns. Requires the Bank to adopt revised policies and procedures to prevent circumvention of trade laws by loan applicants, improve the process for considering the economic effects of proposed loans or guarantees, and process individual applications involving the use or potential use of the Tied Aid Credit Fund. Prohibits the Bank from assisting the financing of certain foreign railway connections.

Law· HRH.R. 6164 (109th)enacted

National Institutes of Health Reform Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 9 March 2026

National Institutes of Health Reform Act of 2006 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to: (1) reorganize the National Institutes of Health (NIH); (2) establish the Division of Program Coordination, Planning, and Strategic Initiatives (the Division); (3) limit the total number of national research institutes and national centers; and (4) establish procedures for future NIH reorganizations. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish the Scientific Management Review Board to advise the appropriate officials on the organization of NIH. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Director of NIH, to: (1) be responsible for program coordination across national research institutes and national centers; (2) ensure that scientifically based strategic planning is implemented in support of research priorities; and (3) ensure that NIH resources are sufficiently allocated for research projects identified in the strategic plans. Requires the Director to establish the Council of Councils to advise the Director on matters related to the policies and activities of the Division. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Director, to establish an electronic system to uniformly code NIH research grants and activities. Sets forth NIH reporting requirements to Congress, the Secretary, the Commissioner of Food and Drugs, and the Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services. Allows the Secretary, acting through the Director, to allocate funds for the national research institutes and national centers to make grants for the purpose of improving the public health through demonstration projects for biomedical research at the interface between the biological, behavioral, and social sciences and the physical, chemical, mathematical, and computational sciences.

Law· HRH.R. 6159 (109th)enacted

To extend temporarily certain authorities of the Small Business Administration.

United States · United States Congress · 7 April 2025

Extends through February 2, 2007, under the same terms and conditions, any program, authority, or provision, including any pilot program, authorized under the Small Business Act or the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 that is scheduled to expire on or after September 30, 2006, and before February 2, 2007.

Law· SS. 3930 (109th)enacted

Military Commissions Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 9 March 2026

Military Commissions Act of 2006 - Authorizes the: (1) President to establish military commissions (commissions) to try alien unlawful enemy combatants engaged in hostilities against the United States for violations of the law of war and other triable offenses; (2) commissions to impose upon any person found guilty any sentence appropriate to the offense, including death or imprisonment for life; and (3) Secretary of Defense to carry out such sentences. Prohibits a combatant under trial from invoking the Geneva Conventions as a source of rights. Amends the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) to codify and establish procedures governing the use of commissions to try such combatants for violations of triable offenses. Makes eligible to serve on a commission any U.S. commissioned officer on active duty. Requires to be detailed to each commission a military judge, trial and military defense counsel, and reporters and interpreters. Requires at least five members in each commission. Prescribes, with respect to each established commission, pre-trial and trial procedures, including charges, rules of evidence, pleas, opportunity to obtain witnesses and other evidence, and defenses. Requires: (1) a two-thirds commission member vote for conviction; (2) a three-fourths member vote for a sentence of life imprisonment or confinement of more than ten years; and (3) a unanimous vote by at least 12 members in a case in which the death penalty is sought. Prescribes post-trial procedures and reviews of commission actions, including appeal by the United States, rehearings, and review by the Court of Military Commission Review, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, and the U.S. Supreme Court. Outlines offenses triable by commissions. Amends the federal criminal code to add certain actions to be considered violations of the War Crimes Act.

Law· HRH.R. 6131 (109th)enacted

To permit certain expenditures from the Leaking Underground Storage Tank Trust Fund.

United States · United States Congress · 7 April 2025

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to authorize expenditures from the Leaking Underground Storage Tank Trust Fund to carry out various programs enacted by the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to protect groundwater, including underground storage tank and piping secondary containment, maintenance of government-owned tanks, tank inspection, training for tank operators, state compliance and enforcement activities, prevention of delivery of a regulated substance into a tank, and protection of tanks on Indian reservations or tribal lands.

Law· HRH.R. 6143 (109th)enacted

Ryan White HIV/AIDS Treatment Modernization Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 9 March 2026

Ryan White HIV/AIDS Treatment Modernization Act of 2006 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to maintain a metropolitan area's eligibility to receive an AIDS emergency relief grant until such area fails to meet eligibility requirements for three consecutive years. Amends the formula for awarding grant funds to consider the number of living names-based cases of HIV/AIDS. Provides for exemptions and adjustments for states that continue to use code-based reporting. Limits the amount by which a grant to an eligible metropolitan area can decrease each year. Sets forth provisions regarding the use or return of unobligated balances of a grant award. Directs the chief elected official of an eligible area to use not less than 75% of grant funds to provide core medical services. Allows the Secretary of Health and Human Services to grant waivers to such requirement. Establishes a transitional grant program for metropolitan areas with lower numbers of AIDS cases. Requires the Secretary to develop and maintain a list of classes of core AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP) antiretroviral therapeutics. Requires states to ensure that such medications are the minimum treatments provided by the ADAP program. Provides for supplemental grants to states that demonstrate a need for supplemental financial assistance. Provides for grants to states for the universal testing of newborns for HIV/AIDS. Expands the program for early intervention services grants to require the provision of core medical services for individuals with HIV/AIDS in underserved populations. Establishes a grant program for the provision of family-centered care involving outpatient or ambulatory care for women and children with HIV/AIDS. Provides for activities to evaluate and address the disproportionate impact of HIV/AIDS and disparities in access, treatment, care, and outcome on racial and ethnic minorities.

Law· HRH.R. 6138 (109th)enacted

Third Higher Education Extension Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 15 November 2025

Third Higher Education Extension Act of 2006 - Amends the Higher Education Extension Act of 2005 to extend the programs under the Higher Education Act of 1965 through June 30, 2007. Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to bar trustees of institutions of higher education (IHEs), or of institution-affiliated organizations, from serving as eligible lenders under the Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) program, unless the trusteeship continues pursuant to a contract entered into before the enactment of this Act. Alters the grant program for Hispanic-serving IHEs to: (1) move the time at which at least 25% of their full-time students must be Hispanic, from the time such IHEs apply for a new grant back to the end of the preceding grant year; (2) eliminate the requirement that at least 50% of their Hispanic students be poor; and (3) eliminate the two-year waiting period between grant applications. Requires that account maintenance fees payable to guarantee agencies under the FFEL program be calculated on the basis of .10% of the original principal amount of such outstanding loans on which insurance was issued. (Currently, such fees are capped at such percentage.) Directs the Secretary of Education to discharge or cancel the federal student loan indebtedness of spouses and parents of individuals who died (or die) or who became (or become) permanently and totally disabled from injuries suffered in the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. States that, in the case of a consolidation loan used jointly by a victim of such attacks and his or her spouse, the discharge or cancellation shall apply only to that portion of debt incurred on behalf of the victim; except that, where the victim served as a police officer, firefighter, other safety or rescue personnel, or member of the Armed Forces, all of the debt on such loan shall be discharged or canceled.

Law· HRH.R. 6111 (109th)enacted

Tax Relief and Health Care Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 9 March 2026

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to grant jurisdiction to the U.S. Tax Court to review taxpayer petitions for equitable relief from joint and several tax liability (i.e., innocent spouse relief).

Law· HRH.R. 6106 (109th)enacted

To extend the waiver authority for the Secretary of Education under title IV, section 105, of Public Law 109-148.

United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2025

Amends the Department of Defense, Emergency Supplemental Appropriations to Address Hurricanes in the Gulf of Mexico, and Pandemic Influenza Act, 2006 to extend, through FY2007, the authority of the Secretary of Education, in providing any grant or other assistance to entities in states in which a major disaster was declared relating to Hurricane Katrina or Rita, to waive or modify requirements relating to maintenance of effort, supplementary use of funds, and matching funds.

Law· HRH.R. 6060 (109th)enacted

Department of State Authorities Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 7 April 2025

Department of State Authorities Act of 2006 - Provides certain authorities for the Department of State and the Broadcasting Board of Governors. Amends provisions respecting: (1) fraud prevention; (2) protective functions; (3) education allowances; (4) property disposition; (5) protection of North Korean refugees; (6) discrimination; (7) passport fees; (8) personal services contracting; (9) contracting prohibition; (10) Foreign Service compensation; (11) maternal and prenatal care for persons in Belarus and Ukraine affected by Chernobyl; and (12) the dual gateway policy of Ireland. Authorizes the President to extend privileges and immunities to the African Union (AU), the Permanent Observer Mission of the Holy See to the United Nations, and the Bank for International Settlements.

Law· HRH.R. 6061 (109th)enacted

Secure Fence Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 9 March 2026

Secure Fence Act of 2006 - Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to take appropriate actions to achieve operational control (as defined by this Act) over U.S. international land and maritime borders, including: (1) systematic border surveillance through more effective use of personnel and technology, such as unmanned aerial vehicles, ground-based sensors, satellites, radar coverage, and cameras; and (2) physical infrastructure enhancements to prevent unlawful border entry and facilitate border access by United States Customs and Border Protection, such as additional checkpoints, all weather access roads, and vehicle barriers. Amends the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 to direct the Secretary to provide at least two layers of reinforced fencing, installation of additional physical barriers, roads, lighting, cameras, and sensors extending: (1) from ten miles west of the Tecate, California, port of entry to ten miles east of the Tecate, California, port of entry; (2) from ten miles west of the Calexico, California, port of entry to five miles east of the Douglas, Arizona, port of entry (with specified priority areas); (3) from five miles west of the Columbus, New Mexico, port of entry to ten miles east of El Paso, Texas; (4) from five miles northwest of the Del Rio, Texas, port of entry to five miles southeast of the Eagle Pass, Texas, port of entry; and (5) 15 miles northwest of the Laredo, Texas, port of entry to the Brownsville, Texas, port of entry (with specified priority areas). Directs the Secretary to: (1) conduct a study and report to Congress respecting the necessity and feasibility of constructing a state-of-the-art barrier system along the U.S. northern international land and maritime border; and (2) evaluate and report to Congress respecting United States Customs and Border Protection authority to stop fleeing vehicles that enter the United States illegally, including related training, technology, and equipment reviews.

Law· SS. 3880 (109th)enacted

Animal Enterprise Terrorism Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 August 2026

Animal Enterprise Terrorism Act - Amends the federal criminal code to revise criminal prohibitions against damaging or interfering with the operations of an animal enterprise to include threats of death or serious bodily injury against individuals (or their family members or, spouse, or intimate partner) who are involved with animal enterprises. Expands monetary and criminal penalties for such crimes. Requires restitution for certain economic losses. Modifies the definition of "animal enterprise" to include: (1) an enterprise that uses or sells animals or animal products for profit for educational purposes; and (2) an animal shelter, pet store, breeder, or furrier. Provides that expressive conduct (including picketing or other peaceful demonstration) protected by the First Amendment is not prohibited by this Act.

Law· SS. 3850 (109th)enacted

Credit Rating Agency Reform Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 9 March 2026

Credit Rating Agency Reform Act of 2006 - Amends the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 to require nationally recognized statistical rating organizations (NRSROs) to register with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), which is granted enforcement powers. Prescribes requirements for prevention of the misuse of nonpublic information and for management of conflicts of interest. Directs the SEC to issue final rules to prohibit unfair, coercive, or abusive acts or practices by NRSROs. Requires an NRSRO to: (1) designate a compliance officer to ensure compliance with securities laws, rules, and regulations; and (2) furnish to the SEC financial statements certified by an independent public accountant.

Law· SS. 3821 (109th)enacted

COMPETE Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 10 August 2026

Creating Opportunities for Minor League Professionals, Entertainers, and Teams through Legal Entry Act of 2006 or the COMPETE Act of 2006 - Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) to enlarge the scope of P-1 (athletes and entertainers) nonimmigrant visas to include: (1) a professional athlete; (2) a person who performs as an athlete, coach, or part of a team that is located in the United States and is a member of certain amateur foreign leagues or associations from which a significant number of individuals are drafted by major sports leagues or their minor league affiliates; and (3) a professional or amateur athlete who performs individually or as part of a group in a theatrical ice skating production coming to the United States in a specific ice skating production or tour. (Currently such provision is limited to athletes performing at an "internationally recognized level of performance.") Requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to permit: (1) a petition to seek P-1 classification for multiple alien athletes; and (2) athletes or their employers to seek admission for such athletes under other than P-1 provisions of INA.

Law· HRH.R. 4 (109th)enacted

Pension Protection Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 10 February 2026

(This measure has not been amended since it was introduced. The summary has been expanded because action occurred on the measure.) Pension Protection Act of 2006 - Title I: Reform of Funding Rules for Single-Employer Defined Benefit Pension Plans: Subtitle A: Amendments to Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 - (Sec. 101) Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) to repeal existing funding rules for defined benefit pension plans for plan years beginning after 2007. Establishes new minimum funding standards for single-employer defined benefit pension plans, single-employer money purchase plans, and multiemployer plans. Requires employers to pay certain minimum required contributions. Allows the Secretary of the Treasury to: (1) waive minimum funding standards in the event of a temporary substantial business hardship for single-employer plans or a substantial business hardship in the case of a multiemployer plan if application of the standard would be adverse to the interests of plan participants in the aggregate; (2) require a single-employer maintaining such a plan to provide security to such plan as a condition for granting or modifying a waiver. Limits the number of waivers that may be granted. Prohibits any amendment which increases the liability of a plan from being adopted if a waiver is in effect. (Sec. 102) Amends ERISA to set forth funding rules for single-employer defined benefit pension plans. Makes the minimum required contribution for single-employer plans the sum of the target normal cost of the plan for the plan year, the shortfall amortization charge, and the waiver amortization charge. Allows funding shortfalls to be amortized over seven years. Allows waiver charges to be amortized over five years. Sets forth rules governing the valuation of plan assets and liabilities. Allows a plan to determine the value of plan assets using fair market value if certain requirements are met. Requires a determination of present value to be based on actuarial assumptions and methods which: (1) are reasonable, taking into account the experience of the plan and reasonable expectations; and (2) offer the actuary's best estimate of anticipated experience under the plan. Establishes a segmented interest rate for determining the present value of plan benefits. Bases the interest rate on the corporate bond yield curve for bonds which mature at three different times: in less than 5 years; between 5 and 20 years; and after 20 years. Defines "corporate bond yield curve" as a yield curve prescribed by the Secretary of the Treasury which reflects the two-year average of monthly yields on investment grade corporate bonds with varying maturities and that are in the top three quality levels available. Sets forth transition rules for plans to implement the segmented interest rates. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to prescribe mortality tables to be used for determining any present value based on the actual experience of pension plans and projected trends in such experience. Requires such tables to be revised at least every 10 years to reflect the actual experience of pension plans and projected trends in such experience. Sets forth special rules for at-risk plans based on whether they are underfunded. Requires such plans to make different actuarial assumptions, which include assuming that participants will retire at the earliest possible date. (Sec. 103) Sets forth limitations on distributions and benefit accruals under single-employer plans. Prohibits the payment of benefits due to plant shutdowns and other unpredictable contingent events if the adjusted funding target attainment percentage for a plan year: (1) is less than 60%; or (2) would be less than 60% taking into account such occurrence. Prohibits underfunded plans, with funding targets less than 80% as of their valuation dates, from: (1) adopting amendments that increase plan liabilities; and (2) providing lump sum distributions or other accelerated forms of benefits. Prohibits underfunded plans, with funding targets less than 60% as of their valuation dates, from all future benefit accruals. Sets forth exceptions to such prohibitions, as well as special timing rules, provisions for restoration of benefits, and notice requirements. (Sec. 104) Delays the effective date of the funding rules under this Act for eligible cooperative plans until: (1) the first plan year for which the plan ceases to be an eligible cooperative plan; or (2) January 1, 2017. Revises the interest rate used to determine the current liability and required contribution of an eligible cooperative plan sponsored by multiple employers to use the third segment rate, which is the rate of interest based on the corporate bond yield curve for such month taking into account only bonds maturing after 20 years. Makes such rate effective after 2007 and before new funding rules apply. (Sec. 105) Delays application of the funding rules for a PBGC settlement plan until January 1, 2014. Applies the third segment rate after 2007 and before 2014 to determine such a plan's current liability and required contribution. (Sec. 106) Delays application of the funding rules for an eligible government contractor cooperative plan until, at the latest, January 1, 2011. Applies the third segment rate after 2007 and before the funding rules become effective. (Sec. 107) Makes technical and conforming amendments. Subtitle B: Amendments to Internal Revenue Code of 1986 - (Sec. 111) Amends the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) to establish minimum funding standards for single-employer defined benefit pension plans. (Sec. 112) Sets forth funding rules for single-employer defined benefit pension plans. (Sec. 113) Sets forth limitations on distributions and benefit accruals under single-employer plans. (Sec. 114) Makes technical and conforming amendments. (Sec. 115) Sets forth a special funding rule for any underfunded plan sponsored by an employer engaged primarily in the interurban or interstate passenger bus service. (Sec. 116) Sets forth the treatment, including tax treatment, of deferred compensation to certain executives or highly compensated employees under nonqualified deferred compensation plans during any period when an employer's defined benefit plan is in, or within six months of, at-risk status or bankruptcy. Title II: Funding Rules for Multiemployer Defined Benefit Plans and Related Provisions - Subtitle A: Amendments to Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 - (Sec. 201) Amends ERISA to establish new funding rules for multiemployer defined benefit plans. Requires amounts attributable to unfunded past service liability, plan amendments, investment gains and losses, actuarial changes, and waived funding deficiency to be amortized over 15 years. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to extend the amortization period for up to 5 years upon a determination that: (1) without the extension, the plan would have an accumulated funding deficiency in any of the next 10 plan years; (2) the plan sponsor has adopted a plan to improve the plan's funded status; and (3) the plan is projected to have sufficient assets to pay expected benefit liabilities and other anticipated expenses in a timely manner. Authorizes the Secretary to grant an additional 5-year extension if not permitting it would result in substantial risk to voluntary continuation of the plan, or substantial curtailment of pension benefit levels or employee compensation, and be adverse to plan participants' aggregate interests. (Sec. 202) Establishes additional funding rules for multiemployer plans in endangered or critical status, including certification and notice requirements. Deems a plan to be in endangered status if it is not in critical status for the plan year and either: (1) its funded percentage for the plan year is less than 80%; or (2) it has an accumulated funding deficiency for the plan year or is projected to have such a deficiency for any of the six succeeding plan years, taking into account any extension of certain amortization periods. Deems plans to be in critical status if their funded percentage is less than 65% and certain other conditions are present, and in specified alternative circumstances. Requires for endangered plans (in various degrees of endangered status): (1) funding improvement plans; (2) sponsor actions, maintenance of contributions, and benefit restrictions pending such funding improvement plans' approval; (3) certain restrictions upon such approval; (4) default (critical status) if an improvement plan is not adopted; (5) standard funding improvement periods; (6) special rules for seriously underfunded plans; and (7) sponsor recommendation of alternative proposals to bargaining parties, and making relevant information available. Requires for plans in critical status: (1) rehabilitation plans; (2) 10-year rehabilitation periods; (3) plan development proposals that include at least one for the reduction of future benefit accruals (at a limited rate) and one for an increase in contributions; (4) default schedules, with allocation rules for those containing reductions in future benefit accruals; (5) automatic employer surcharges; and (6) benefit adjustments. Allows plan sponsors discretion to treat a failure of a contributing employer to make required contributions under the rehabilitation plan as a withdrawal from the plan. (Sec. 203) Amends ERISA to require a sponsor of a plan in reorganization who determines that the plan will be insolvent in the next five years (by comparing the value of plan assets with the total amount of benefit payments made under the plan) to make such comparison at least annually until the sponsor determines that the plan will not be insolvent in any of the next five plan years. (Sec. 204) Revises the table used to determine an employer's withdrawal liability upon the employer's sale of assets. (Sec. 205) Prohibits a sponsor of a multiemployer plan or any other person from discriminating against any contributing employer for: (1) exercising rights under this Act; or (2) testifying before Congress in any proceeding relating to this Act. (Sec. 206) Exempts a multiemployer plan that is a party to an agreement approved by PBGC that increases benefits and provides for special withdrawal liability rules from the funding rules and withdrawal liability rules under this Act. Subtitle B: Amendments to Internal Revenue Code of 1986 - (Sec. 211) Amends the IRC to establish funding rules for multiemployer defined benefit plans. (Sec. 212) Establishes additional funding rules for multiemployer plans in endangered or critical status. (Sec. 213) Amends the IRC to require a sponsor of a plan in reorganization who determines that the plan will be insolvent in the next five years to evaluate the plan at least annually until the sponsor determines that the plan will not be insolvent in any of the next five plan years. (Sec. 214) Prohibits a tax from being imposed for any accumulated funding deficiency of a multiemployer pension plan meeting certain requirements, including having contributing employers that participate in a federal fishery capacity reduction program and the Northeast Fisheries Assistance Program. Subtitle C: Sunset of Additional Funding Rules - (Sec. 221) Directs the Secretaries of Labor and the Treasury and the PBGC Executive Director to report to Congress on the effect of this Act on the operation and status of multiemployer plans. Provides for the sunset of multiemployer funding rules under this subtitle. Provides that such rules shall cease to apply to plan years beginning after December 31, 2014, and that ERISA and IRC rules in effect before the amendments made by this Act shall be applicable again, except with respect to any plan operating under a funding improvement or rehabilitation plan for its last year beginning before January 1, 2015. Title III: Interest Rate Assumptions - (Sec. 301) Extends through 2007 interest rate rules that require the use of a rate based on long-term investment grade corporate bonds rather than 30-year Treasury securities to calculate a defined benefit plan's liability and required contributions, current liability, and the premium to be paid to PBGC. (Sec. 302) Sets forth the interest rate calculation and mortality tables for determining the present value of a qualified joint and survivor annuity or a qualified preretirement survivor annuity that will be immediately distributed. Phases in use of a yield curve method involving interest rates on corporate bonds to determine the amount of such payments. (Sec. 303) Revises the interest rate assumptions for adjusting a benefit for lump sum distributions. Title IV: PBGC Guarantee and Related Provisions - (Sec. 401) Replaces the interest rate based on 30-year Treasury securities used for the valuation of vested benefits with segmented interest rates based on investment grade corporate bonds with varying maturities. Makes permanent provisions establishing additional premiums to be paid to PBGC upon termination of a single-employer plan. (Sec. 402) Allows commercial passenger airline plan sponsors to elect to: (1) apply an alternative funding schedule and special rules, including amortization of unfunded liability over 17 years; or (2) use applicable funding rules, but amortize the shortfall amortization base over a period of 10 years (rather than 7). (Sec. 403) Makes PBGC responsible, in the event of an unpredictable contingent event, for benefits as of the date of the event. (Sec. 404) Sets the terminating date of a pension plan for PBGC purposes as the date the plan sponsor files for bankruptcy. (Sec. 405) Sets forth maximum premiums to be paid to PBGC by small employers. (Sec. 406) Authorizes PBGC to pay interest on the amount of any premium overpayment refunded to a designated payor. (Sec. 407) Revises rules for substantial owner benefits in terminated plans with respect to: (1)the phase-in of guarantee; and (2) the allocation of assets. (Sec. 408) Provides for accelerated computation of benefits payable to participants and beneficiaries by the PBGC from recoveries of employer liability. Revises provisions relating to: (1) the average recovery percentage of the outstanding amount of such benefits; and (2) the valuation of recovery liability in determining such benefit amounts. (Sec. 409) Establishes a special rule for treatment of certain plans where a member that maintained a single-employer defined benefit plan that is fully funded ceases to be a member of a controlled group. (Sec. 410) Directs PBGC to issue missing participant rules for multiemployer plans. Allows the transfer of missing participants' benefits to PBGC upon plan termination for certain plans not subject to the PBGC termination insurance program. (Sec. 411) Replaces the chairman of the board of directors with a Director to head PBGC, to be approved by the Senate. (Sec. 412) Requires certain information to be included in the PBGC annual report, including: (1) a summary of the Pension Insurance Modeling System microsimulation model; (2) a comparison of the average return on investments earned by PBGC compared to an average return on other specified investments; and (3) a statement regarding the deficit or surplus for such year that PBGC would have had if the corporation earned the same return as the specified investments. Title V: Disclosure - (Sec. 501) Revises requirements for defined benefit plan funding notices and the types of information which multiemployer plans must provide. Requires single-employer plans to provide such notices. (Sec. 502) Requires an administrator of a multiemployer pension plan to furnish actuarial reports, financial reports, and any application for an amortization extension upon the request of any plan participant or beneficiary, employee representative, or any employer with an obligation to contribute to the plan. Requires plan sponsors or administrators to furnish a notice of potential withdrawal liability upon the request of any employer. Requires notice of any amendment providing for a significant reduction in the rate of future benefit accruals to be provided to each such employer. (Sec. 503) Sets forth additional requirements for annual reports to the Secretary of Labor by defined benefit plans, including the funded percentage of each plan and explanations of actuarial assumptions and methods used. (Sec. 504) Requires identification, basic plan information, and actuarial information included in the annual report to be: (1) filed in an electronic format; and (2) displayed on a website maintained by the Secretary of Labor and on an intranet website maintained by the plan sponsor or administrator. (Sec. 505) Requires a contributing sponsor to file a financial report with PBGC if the funding target attainment percentage of the plan is less than 80%. (Currently, the criteria for sponsor reporting is based on the aggregate unfunded vested benefits of the plan.) (Sec. 506) Sets forth requirements for a single-employer plan to disclose termination information to affected parties. (Sec. 507) Requires plan administrators to notify plan participants or beneficiaries of their right to divest employer securities at least 30 days before eligibility. (Sec. 508) Requires an administrator of an individual account plan or a defined benefit plan to provide participants or beneficiaries with a pension benefit statement on a specified schedule. (Sec. 509) Revises the definition of "one-participant retirement plan." Makes such change effective as if it were included in the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Title VI: Investment Advice, Prohibited Transactions, and Fiduciary Rules - Subtitle A: Investment Advice - (Sec. 601) Exempts from prohibited transaction rules the provision of investment advice (and certain transactions pursuant to such advice, as well as certain fees for such advice) to a plan and its participants and beneficiaries regarding plan assets subject to such participants' and beneficiaries' direction, if such advice is given by fiduciary advisors meeting specified requirements. Subtitle B: Prohibited Transactions - (Sec. 611) Establishes exemptions from prohibited transaction rules for specified types of transactions involving: (1) block trading; (2) bonding relief; (3) providing services between a plan and a party in interest, but only if adequate consideration is involved; (4) electronic communication and similar networks subject to governmental regulation, where the identity of the parties is not taken into account; (5) foreign exchange; and (6) cross trading. (Sec. 612) Establishes a prohibited transaction exemption for a transaction that would have been prohibited but is corrected within 14 days after the fiduciary or party in interest or other person discovers, or reasonably should have discovered, that the transaction would constitute a prohibited transaction. Subtitle C: Fiduciary and Other Rules - (Sec. 621) Makes certain provisions for relief from fiduciary liability inapplicable during suspensions of the ability of participants or beneficiaries to direct investments. (Sec. 622) Increases the maximum bond amount required for fiduciaries of an employee benefit plan who hold employer securities. (Sec. 623) Increases penalties for coercive interference with the exercise of ERISA rights. (Sec. 624) Treats a participant in an individual account plan as exercising control over assets where a plan designates default investments meeting certain requirements. (Sec. 625) Directs the Secretary of Labor to issue regulations clarifying that the selection of an annuity contract as an optional form of distribution from an individual account plan to a participant or beneficiary is not subject to the safest available annuity standard. Title VII: Benefit Accrual Standards - (Sec. 701) Revises ERISA rules relating to reductions in accrued benefits. Sets forth the requirements with which defined benefit pension plans, including hybrid plans such as cash balance plans, must comply to be deemed nondiscriminatory as to age in cases of a reduction in accrued benefits because of attainment of any age. (Sec. 702) Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to prescribe regulations to apply such requirements to cases where conversions to applicable defined benefit plans are made with respect to groups who become employees due to mergers, acquisitions, or similar transactions. Title VIII: Pension Related Revenue Provisions - Subtitle A: Deduction Limitations - (Sec. 801) Set forth rules establishing the deduction limit for single-employer defined benefit plans. (Sec. 802) Sets the maximum deductible amount for multiemployer defined benefit plans as not less than the excess of 140% of the current liability of the plan over the value of the plan's assets. (Sec. 803) Applies deduction limits for plan sponsors maintaining both defined benefit plans and defined contribution plans, in the case of employer contributions to one or more defined contribution plans, only to the extent that those contributions exceed 6% of the compensation otherwise paid or accrued to beneficiaries during the plan year. Subtitle B: Certain Pension Provisions Made Permanent - (Sec. 811) Repeals the sunset of provisions of the Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001 related to individual retirement accounts and pensions. (Sec. 812) Repeals the sunset of the tax credit for qualified retirement savings contributions. Subtitle C: Improvements in Portability, Distribution, and Contribution Rules - (Sec. 821) Revises the definition of "permissive service credit" to include: (1) service credit for periods for which there is no performance of service; and (2) service credited in order to provide an increased benefit for service credit which a participant is recovering under the plan. (Sec. 822) Allows rollover of after-tax amounts to an annuity contract. (Sec. 823) Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to issue regulations under which a governmental plan shall be treated as having complied with trust distribution requirements if the plan complies with a reasonable good faith interpretation of those requirements. (Sec. 824) Allows direct rollovers from eligible retirement plans to Roth IRAs. (Sec. 825) Provides that an individual is not precluded from participating in an eligible deferred compensation plan by reason of having received a distribution from a governmental plan or a tax-exempt employer. (Sec. 826) Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to modify rules for determining whether a participant has had a hardship or unforeseen financial emergency. (Sec. 827) Exempts a distribution made to a reservist who is called to active duty for at least 179 days from the imposition of a tax for early distribution from qualified retirement plans. Makes provision retroactive to September 11, 2001. (Sec. 828) Exempts a distribution made to a qualified public safety employee after separation of service after attainment of age 50 (currently, 55) from the imposition of a tax for early distribution from qualified retirement plans. Applies such exemption to police, firefighters, and emergency medical service personnel. (Sec. 829) Permits a distribution from an eligible retirement plan of a deceased employee to an individual retirement plan of a designated beneficiary that is not the surviving spouse of the employee. (Sec. 830) Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to make available a form for individuals to direct that a portion of any tax refund be paid directly to an individual retirement plan. (Sec. 831) Allows, and gives credit for, additional individual retirement account payments in certain bankruptcy cases. (Sec. 832) Amends the calculation of the average compensation for the high three years when calculating the annual benefit limit under a defined benefit plan. (Sec. 833) Adjusts for inflation the maximum income limits for the tax credit for qualified retirement savings contributions. Subtitle D: Health and Medical Benefits - (Sec. 841) Permits an employer maintaining a defined benefit plan to transfer excess pension assets to cover current retirees future health liabilities. (Sec. 842) Removes the exclusion that prevents multiemployer pension plans from transferring excess pension assets to health benefits accounts for retirees. (Sec. 843) Allows qualified asset accounts to include a reserve for medical benefits provided through bona fide association health plans. (Sec. 844) Excludes from gross income any charge against the cash value of an annuity contract or the cash surrender value of a life insurance contract made as payment for coverage under a qualified long-term care insurance contract which is part of or a rider on such annuity or life insurance contract if the investment in the contract is reduced (but not below zero). Requires an individual excluding such charges from gross income to file a return with the Secretary of the Treasury. (Sec. 845) Excludes from gross income direct distributions from governmental retirement plans to pay for health and long-term care insurance premiums for retired public safety officers. Subtitle E: United States Tax Court Modernization - (Sec. 851) Provides for cost-of-living increases to annuities for surviving spouses and dependents of Tax Court judges based on increases paid under the Civil Service Retirement System. (Sec. 852) Authorizes the Tax Court to pay increases in the cost of Federal Employees' Group Life Insurance for judges age 65 and over. (Sec. 853) Allows Tax Court judges to participate in the Thrift Savings Plan. (Sec. 854) Provides for the payment of annuities to surviving spouses and dependents of magistrate judges. (Sec. 855) Grants exclusive jurisdiction to the Tax Court for collection due process case appeals. (Sec. 856) Authorizes the Chief Judge of the Tax Court to recall retired magistrate judges for service. Limits the term of such service to 90 days in any calendar year. (Sec. 857) Authorizes the assignment of employment tax cases involving $50,000 or less to special trial judges. (Sec. 858) Permits the Tax Court to apply the doctrine of equitable recoupment (a defendant's right to claim an offset against a debt in a creditor action) to the same extent that it is available in civil tax cases before the U.S. District Court and the U.S. Court of Federal Claims. (Sec. 859) Authorizes the Tax Court to impose a fee of up to $60 for the filing of any petition. (Sec. 860) Requires a portion of Tax Court practitioner fees to be used to provide services to pro se taxpayers (taxpayers representing themselves before the Tax Court). Subtitle F: Other Provisions - (Sec. 861) Extends to all governmental plans the exemption from application of minimum participation and nondiscrimination rules in favor of highly compensated employees applicable to state and local plans. (Sec. 862) Eliminates the limit that prohibited payments from the Black Lung Disability Trust Fund to pay accident or health benefits for retired miners and their spouses and dependents from exceeding an amount based on aggregate limits from all taxable years. Requires that such limits be based only on the prior taxable year. (Sec. 863) Includes in gross income benefits paid to other employees, directors, and highly compensated employees under employer-owned life insurance contracts upon the death of an insured employee that exceed the sum of the premiums and other amounts paid for the contract. (Sec. 864) Amends the Revenue Reconciliation Act of 1978 to deem to not be an employee any individual providing services as a test proctor or room supervisor by assisting in the administration of college entrance or placement examinations. (Sec. 865) Provides that annuity payments from qualified church plans that otherwise meet specified distribution requirements for money purchase pension plans under the IRC shall not fail to satisfy qualified trust distribution requirements merely because the payments are not made under an annuity contract purchased from an insurance company. (Sec. 866) Defines a "qualified organization" to include a church-maintained retirement income account for purposes of determining the tax on unrelated debt-financed income from real property interests. (Sec. 867) Exempts participants in church plans who are not highly compensated employees from certain defined benefit plan limitations. (Sec. 868) Requires that the amount of a qualified gratuitous transfer to an employee stock ownership plan allocated each year be determined on the basis of the fair market value of securities when allocated to participants. Title IX: Increase in Pension Plan Diversification and Participation and Other Pension Provisions - (Sec. 901) Requires defined contribution plans holding publicly traded securities to provide employees with: (1) the opportunity to divest employer securities; and (2) at least three investment options other than employer securities. (Sec. 902) Allows qualified automatic contribution arrangements where eligible employees are treated as having elected to have the employer make elective contributions in an amount equal to a qualified percentage of compensation until the employees otherwise make an affirmative election. (Sec. 903) Sets forth benefit, contribution, and notice requirements for treatment of eligible combined defined benefit plans and qualified cash or deferred arrangements. (Sec. 904) Provides for faster vesting of employer contributions in defined contribution plans. (Sec. 905) Revises the definition of "employee pension benefit plan" to allow distributions prior to termination of covered employment that is made to an employee who has attained age 62 and who is not separated from employment at the time of the distribution. (Sec. 906) Revises the definition of governmental plan to treat Indian tribal pension plans as tax-qualified governmental plans. Title X: Provisions Relating to Spousal Pension Protection - (Sec. 1001) Directs the Secretary of Labor to issue regulations relating to the time and order of issuance of qualified domestic relations orders under ERISA and IRC provisions. (Sec. 1002) Amends the Railroad Retirement Act of 1974 to eliminate the requirement that an individual be entitled to and receiving an annuity in order for a divorced spouse to receive an annuity. (Sec. 1003) Extends the payment of any portion of Tier II railroad retirement benefits to surviving former spouses pursuant to court decrees upon the death of the individual who performed the service, unless the termination of benefits is required by such court decree. (Sec. 1004) Requires pension plans to offer participants the option of a qualified joint and 3/4 survivor annuity (as an alternative to the current qualified joint and survivor annuity). Title XI: Administrative Provisions - (Sec. 1101) Grants the Secretary of the Treasury full authority to establish, implement, update, and improve the Employee Plans Compliance Resolution System and any other employee plans correction policies, including the authority to waive income, excise, or other taxes to ensure that any tax, penalty, or sanction is not excessive and bears a reasonable relationship to the nature, extent, and severity of the failure. (Sec. 1102) Increases the period during which: (1) a participant may elect to waive the qualified joint and survivor annuity form of benefit; and (2) a plan must provide notice to a participant. Requires the notification to describe not only a participant's right (if any) to defer receipt of a distribution but also the consequences of failing to defer such receipt. (Sec. 1103) Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to modify the requirements for filing annual returns to ensure that one-participant plans with assets of $250,000 or less are not required to file an annual return. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury and the Secretary of Labor to provide for the filing of a simplified annual return for any retirement plan which covers fewer than 25 participants. (Sec. 1104) Amends the IRC and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 to treat certain voluntary early retirement incentive and employment retention plans of local educational agencies and of educational associations as bona fide severance pay plans to the extent that payments as early retirement benefits could otherwise be made, subject to specified conditions. Amends ERISA to treat such plans as welfare plans (not pension plans) for purposes of such payments. (Sec. 1105) Prohibits states from reducing unemployment compensation as a result of any pension, retirement or retired pay, annuity, or similar payment which is not included in the gross income of the individual for the taxable year because it was part of a rollover distribution. (Sec. 1106) Allows a plan to revoke its election to not be treated as a multiemployer plan under certain circumstances. (Sec. 1107) Sets forth provisions relating to plan amendments. Title XII: Provisions Relating to Exempt Organizations - Subtitle A: Charitable Giving Incentives - (Sec. 1201) Amends the IRC to exclude from the gross income of certain individual retirement account holders up to $100,000 of their distributions from such accounts made for charitable purposes. Terminates this tax exclusion after 2007. Increases penalties for the failure of split-interest trusts and trusts claiming certain tax deductions for charitable contributions to file required informational returns. (Sec. 1202) Extends through 2007 provisions allowing non-corporate taxpayers to make tax deductible contributions of food inventory. (Sec. 1203) Provides that the amount of an S corporation shareholder's basis reduction in the stock of such corporation due to a charitable contribution made by the corporation will be the shareholder's pro rata share of the adjusted basis of the contributed property. (Sec. 1204) Extends through 2007 the increased tax deduction for corporate contributions of book inventories to public schools. (Sec. 1205) Sets forth a special rule for the tax treatment of payments of interest, rents, annuities, or royalty payments made to a tax-exempt organization which has a controlling interest in the entity making such payments. Terminates such rule after 2007. Requires the Secretary to report to the Senate Finance Committee and the House Ways and Means Committee on the effectiveness of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in administering this tax provision. (Sec. 1206) Allows individual taxpayers an increased tax deduction (50% of taxpayer contribution base) for qualified conservation contributions (real property donated to a charitable organization exclusively for conservation purposes). Increases such tax deduction to 100% for contributions by certain farmers or ranchers. Allows a 15-year carryforward of unused deduction amounts. Allows an increased tax deduction (and 15-year carryover of such tax deduction) for qualified conservation contributions made by corporate farmers and ranchers. Terminates such provisions after 2007. (Sec. 1207) Exempts tax-exempt blood collector organizations from: (1) the excise tax on diesel and special motor fuels; (2) the manufacturer's excise tax; (3) the communication excise tax; and (4) the excise tax on heavy vehicles. Subtitle B: Reforming Exempt Organizations - Part I: General Reforms - (Sec. 1211) Requires tax-exempt organizations which acquire a direct or indirect interest in certain life insurance, annuity, or endowment contracts to file informational returns during a specified two-year period. Imposes penalties on such organizations for failure to file required information. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to study the use of such contracts by tax-exempt organizations and to report to the Senate Finance Committee and the House Ways and Means Committee. (Sec. 1212) Increases penalties on charitable organizations, including private foundations, for: (1) self-dealing and excess benefit transactions; (2) failure to distribute income; (3) excess business holdings; (4) investments which jeopardize charitable purpose; and (5) taxable expenditures (e.g., political activities). Increases penalties on managers of such organizations for prohibited activities. (Sec. 1213) Modifies requirements for the tax deduction for charitable contributions of easements on buildings in registered historic districts to require such easements to preserve the entire exterior of the building and to prohibit any change that is inconsistent with the historical character of such exterior. (Sec. 1214) Disallows enhanced tax deductions for charitable contributions of taxidermy property (a work of art which is the reproduction or preservation of a dead animal). (Sec. 1215) Sets forth rules for the recapture of tax benefits for charitable contributions of tax-exempt use property which is not used for charitable purposes. Modifies reporting requirements relating to the disposition of charitable deduction property by a donee. Imposes a $10,000 penalty for the fraudulent identification of tax-exempt use property. (Sec. 1216) Disallows a tax deduction for clothing or household items that are not in good used condition or better. Defines "household items" to include furniture, electronics, appliances, linens, and other similar items, but excludes food, paintings, antiques and other objects of art, jewelry and gems, and collectibles. (Sec. 1217) Modifies recordkeeping requirements for charitable contributions of monetary gifts to require bank records for such contributions or confirmation letters from the donee organizations. (Sec. 1218) Requires a tax-exempt organization which receives a donation of a fractional interest in an item of tangible property to take actual possession of such item for the portion of the year corresponding to the organization's percentage interest in such item. (Sec. 1219) Increases penalties for substantial and gross overstatements of valuations of charitable deduction property. Imposes a penalty for intentional misstatements of appraisal values. Sets forth definitions relating to appraisers and appraisals. (Sec. 1220) Establishes standards and requirements for tax-exempt credit counseling organizations. (Sec. 1221) Revises the definitions of private foundation gross investment income and capital gain net income for purposes of the excise tax on such income. (Sec. 1222) Defines "convention or association of churches" to include individuals (with or without voting rights) as well as churches. (Sec. 1223) Imposes certain reporting requirements on exempt organizations not currently required to file information returns (e.g., organizations with gross receipts of less than $25,000). (Sec. 1224) Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to notify state officials of adverse actions taken by the IRS against certain charitable organizations. (Sec. 1225) Permits public disclosure of unrelated business income tax returns filed by tax-exempt charitable organizations. (Sec. 1226) Directs the Secretary to study the organization and operation of donor advised funds and report to the Senate Finance Committee and the House Ways and Means Committee on such study. Part 2: Improved Accountability of Donor Advised Funds - (Sec. 1231) Imposes a 20% excise tax on supporting organizations (5% tax on fund management) for making taxable distributions from a donor advised fund. Limits the amount of such tax to $10,000 for any one taxable distribution. Defines "sponsoring organization" as a tax-exempt organization which is not a private foundation and which maintains one or more donor advised funds. Defines " donor advised fund" as a separately identified fund which is owned and controlled by a sponsoring organization and which permits a donor to have advisory privileges as to the distribution or investment of fund assets. Authorizes the Secretary to exempt a fund from treatment as a donor advised fund under certain conditions. Imposes penalty taxes on prohibited benefits resulting from certain distributions made from donor advised funds. (Sec. 1232) Extends penalties applicable to tax-exempt organizations for excess benefit transactions involving donor advised funds. (Sec. 1233) Extends penalties applicable to private foundations for excess benefit holdings of donor advised funds. (Sec. 1234) Limits the tax deductibility of charitable contributions made to donor advised funds by individuals, estates, and donors of gifts. (Sec. 1235) Requires a supporting organization to report for its taxable year: (1) its total number of its donor advised funds; (2) the aggregate value of assets held in such funds; and (3) the aggregate contributions to, and grants made from, such funds. Part 3: Improved Accountability of Supporting Organizations - (Sec. 1241) Sets forth requirements for supporting organizations relating to distributions and responsiveness to supported organizations. (Sec. 1242) Extends penalties applicable to tax-exempt organizations for excess benefit transactions involving supporting organizations. (Sec. 1243) Extends penalties applicable to private foundations for excess benefit holdings of supporting organizations. (Sec. 1244) Limits distributions and taxable expenditures made by nonoperating private foundations to supporting organizations. (Sec. 1245) Sets forth reporting requirements for supporting organizations. Title XIII: Other Provisions - (Sec. 1301) Amends the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977, as amended by the Mine Improvement and New Emergency Response Act of 2006, to make technical changes. (Sec. 1302) Amends the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users to change the amount authorized for the Going-to-the-Sun Road at Glacier National Park, Montana, and to make such funds available as if they were apportioned consistent with other federal highway aid. Increases the unobligated funds apportioned to the states before September 30, 2009, for certain transportation activities that are subject to rescission. (Sec. 1303) Excludes electricity provided to the city of Hoonah, Alaska, from the determination as to whether any private activity bond issued before May 31, 2006, and used to finance the Snettisham or Lake Dorothy hydroelectric facilities is a qualified bond for purposes of excluding bond interest from gross income. (Sec. 1304) Amends the Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001 to permanently extend provisions related to a qualified tuition program. Allows the Secretary of the Treasury to prescribe regulations to carry out or prevent abuse of such provisions. Title XIV: Tariff Provisions - Miscellaneous Trade and Technical Corrections Act of 2006 - Subtitle A: Temporary Duty Suspensions and Reductions - Chapter 1: New Suspensions and Reductions - (Sec. 1411) Amends the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS) to provide for temporary duty suspensions, increases, or reductions through December 31, 2009 for: (1) certain non-knit auto mechanic's gloves; (2) certain microphones for automotive interiors; (3) various specified acrylic or modacrylic synthetic staple fibers and filament tows; (4) nitrocellulose; (5) potassium sorbate; (6) sorbic acid; (7) certain capers; (8) certain preparations of pepperoncini; (9) certain chemicals, chemical mixtures, and dyes; (10) hydraulic control units; (11) shield asy-steering gear; (12) certain master cylinder assembles; (13) certain transaxles; (14) converter asy; (15) module and bracket asy-power steering; (16) unit asy-battery hi volt; (17) certain articles of natural cork; (18) DEMBB distilled-iso tank; (19) certain acrylic fiber tow; (20) M-alcohol; (21) certain machines for the assembly of motorcycle wheels; (22) palm fatty acid distillate; (23) certain cosmetic bags; (24) formulations of prosulfuron; (25) ion-exchange resins; (26) ion-exchange resin powder; (27) certain cases for toys; (28) aspirin; (29) various specified kinds of camel and vicuna hair; (30) low expansion laboratory glass; (31) stoppers, lids, and other closures; (32) various specified kinds of basketballs; (33) certain volleyballs; (34) certain decorative plates, sculptures, and plaques, and architectural miniatures; (35) certain music boxes; (36) certain footwear; (37) certain refracting and reflecting telescopes; (38) certain liquid crystal device (LCD) panel assemblies; and (39) certain watertube boilers and reactor vessel heads. Chapter 2: Existing Duty Suspensions and Reductions - (Sec. 1611) Extends the existing suspension or reduction of duty through December 31, 2009, for: (1) certain chemicals and dyes; (2) certain yarn of viscose rayon; (3) certain ion-exchange resins; (4) certain bags for toys; (5) cases for certain children's products; (6) certain children's products; (7) certain light absorbing photo dyes; (8) certain R-core transformers; (9) certain filament yarns; (10) certain semi-manufactured forms of gold; (11) sodium petroleum sulfonate; and (12) ceiling fans. Extends the suspension of duty on certain chemicals through December 31, 2009. Imposes a duty on certain chemicals through December 31, 2009 (thus, rescinding their duty-free treatment). Decreases the duty on certain chemicals through December 31, 2009. Subtitle B: Other Tariff Provisions - Chapter 1: Liquidation or Reliquidation of Certain Entries - (Sec. 1621) Directs the Commissioner of the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (Commissioner) to admit free of duty into the United States three tramway cars and their associated spare parts manufactured in Ostrava, Czech Republic, for the use by the city of Portland, Oregon, and imported pursuant to a contract with the city. Requires the Commissioner to reliquidate (refund the duties) paid on such entries before enactment of this section. (Sec. 1622) Requires the Commissioner to liquidate or reliquidate, and refund any amounts owed or interest previously paid on, certain entries of: (1) candles without assessment of antidumping duties and interest; (2) roller chain without assessment of interest; and (3) soundspa clock radios. Chapter 2 - Miscellaneous Provisions - (Sec. 1631) Amends the Tariff Act of 1930 and the HTS to exempt from duty the cost of equipment, repair parts, and materials involved in the repair of certain vessels by U.S. crews done in foreign waters or in a foreign port that does not involve foreign shipyard repairs by foreign labor. (Sec. 1632) Suspends from April 2, 2006 through June 30, 2009, the requirement that the administering authority direct the Customs Service to allow, at the option of the importer of such merchandise, the posting, until completion of the review, of a bond or security in lieu of a cash deposit for each entry of the subject merchandise (bonding privileges). Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to report to specified congressional committees: (1) recommendations on whether such suspension should be extended; and (2) assessments of the effectiveness of any administrative measures that have been implemented to address the difficulties giving rise to the suspension. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to report to specified congressional committees, with recommendations for additional action, on the major problems experienced in the collection of duties, including fraudulent activities intended to avoid their payment. (Sec. 1633) Amends the HTS to extend the duty suspensions and duty-free treatment for certain wool products through December 31, 2009. Amends the Wool Suit and Textile Trade Extension Act of 2004 to require the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection to make annual (currently, two additional) payments from the Wool Apparel Manufacturers Trust Fund to importing and nonimporting manufacturers of certain wool products during calendar year 2005. Requires each subsequent annual payment to be made after January 1 of each subsequent year, but on or before April 15 of such year through calendar year 2010. Extends the authorization of the Secretary of Commerce through calendar year 2009 to provide grants to manufacturers of certain worsted wool fabrics during calendar years 1999, 2000, and 2001. Makes only manufacturers who weave worsted wool fabric in the United States eligible for such grants. Amends the Trade and Development Act of 2000, as amended by the Wool Suit and Textile Trade Extension Act of 2004, to extend the Wool Research, Development, and Promotion Trust Fund through December 31, 2010. (Sec. 1634) Authorizes the President to proclaim modifications to the HTS to carry out amendments to the Agreement proposed by the United States and the Dominican Republic-Central America-United States Free Trade Agreement (DR-CAFTA), the terms of which are contained in letters of understanding specified in this Act. Terminates such authority on December 31, 2007. Authorizes the President to proclaim such modifications to carry out amendments proposed by the United States, Costa Rica, and the Dominican Republic, the terms of which are contained in the letters of understanding exchanged between the countries relating to the rules of origin for articles containing pocket bag fabric used in an apparel article classifiable under the HTS that contains a pocket or pockets. Subjects such modification to consultaton and layover requirements of the Dominican Republic-Central America-United States Free Trade Agreement Implementation Act (DR-CAFTA IA). Makes such modification ineffective if a joint resolution of Congress is enacted into law disapproving it. Terminates such authority on December 31, 2007. Authorizes the Commissioner of Customs to require an importer to submit at the time the importer files a claim for preferential tariff treatment under the Agreement a certificate of eligibility, properly completed and signed, or transmitted pursuant to an authorized electronic data interchange system, by an authorized official of the government of Nicaragua to implement the tariff preference level for Nicaragua provided in the Agreement. Authorizes the President to proclaim a reduction in the overall limit in such tariff preference level if Nicaragua fails to comply with a commitment under an agreement between the United States and Nicaragua with regard to the administration of such tariff preference. Makes a technical correction to the DR-CAFTA IA relating to retroactive application for certain liquidations and reliquidations of textile or apparel goods. Requires, within 30 days after enactment of this Act, and at least quarterly thereafter, the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) to report to the appropriate congressional committees on the status of negotiations and amendments proposed by the United States, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala, Costa Rica, and the Dominican Republic to the Agreement regarding any change to the rule of origin or alteration of the tariff treatment of certain socks classified or described in this Act. Requires the USTR to provide to the appropriate congressional committees copies of any amendments: (1) to be proposed by the United States before the amendments are offered; and (2) received by the United States relating to such negotiations. Terminates such reporting requirements on the date on which any change is made to the rule of origin pursuant to the Agreement for such socks or December 31, 2007, whichever occurs later. (Sec. 1635) Amends the Tariff Act of 1930, the Trade Act of 1974, the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985, and the Bipartisan Trade Promotion Authority Act of 2002 to make technical corrections. Subtitle C: Effective Date - (Sec. 1641) Sets forth the effective date for amendments made by this title.

Law· HRH.R. 5948 (109th)enacted

Belarus Democracy Reauthorization Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 7 April 2025

Belarus Democracy Reauthorization Act of 2006 - Amends the Belarus Democracy Act of 2004 to extend and specify authorization of appropriations for: (1) democracy and civil society activities; and (2) radio and television broadcasting to Belarus. Establishes specified economic and U.S. entry sanctions against Belarus until its government makes progress in meeting specified conditions respecting: (1) release of political prisoners and accounting for the disappearances of opposition leaders and journalists; (2) cessation of political harassment; (3) prosecution of senior government leaders for embezzlement of state assets and administration of fraudulent elections; and (4) holding free presidential and parliamentary elections under independent supervision.

Law· HRH.R. 5946 (109th)enacted

Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Reauthorization Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 9 March 2026

Stevens-Inouye International Fisheries Monitoring and Compliance Legacy Act of 2006 - Amends the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act to authorize the promotion of improved compliance for high seas fisheries or fisheries governed by international fishery management agreements. Requires actions to improve the effectiveness of international fishery management organizations in managing fish stocks. Mandates reports on a nation whose fishing vessels are engaged in illegal, unreported, or unregulated fishing or fishing resulting in certain bycatch. Modifies requirements regarding Pacific Insular Area fisheries monitoring. Mandates research on Atlantic billfish. Reauthorizes the Atlantic Tunas Conventions Act of 1975. Requires the application of alternate provisions (established by this Act) when determined that an area within a Regional Fishery Management Council's geographical area of authority is overfished or approaching a condition of being overfished due to excessive international fishing pressure. Adds a provision to the "bycatch" definition exclusion. Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Convention Implementation Act - Regulates U.S. representation on the Commission for the Conservation and Management of Highly Migratory Fish Stocks in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean. Sets forth authorities of the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Commerce. Makes certain acts unlawful. Requires masters of certain commercial fishing vessels to give notice of the circumstances under which they will enter U.S. exclusive economic zone (EEZ) waters. Pacific Whiting Act of 2006 - Provides for the appointment of members of various bodies under the Agreement between the Government of the United States and the Government of Canada on Pacific Hake/Whiting. Sets the U.S. catch level for pacific whiting according to the standards and procedures of the Agreement and the provisions of this Act rather than under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act.

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