Summary:
FAA Extension, Safety, and Security Act of 2016

TITLE I--FAA EXTENSION

Subtitle A--Airport and Airway Programs

(Sec. 1101) This bill reauthorizes through FY2017 the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and specified FAA programs, including:

 the airport improvement program; air navigation facilities and equipment; research, engineering, and development; and essential air service. (Sec. 1102) The following expiring authorities are extended through FY2017, including:

 the competition disclosure requirement under a development project grant for a large hub airport or a medium hub airport; the eligibility for small airport grants of sponsors of airports in the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, and Republic of Palau; the air traffic control contract program; state and local government compatible land use planning and projects; and Department of Transportation (DOT) authority to make agreements to provide assistance to underserved airports under the Small Community Air Service Development Program. The bill amends the Vision 100--Century of Aviation Reauthorization Act to extend through the same date:

 the authorization for airport development at Midway Island Airport, and the authority of any final order with respect to the eligibility for essential air service compensation. The FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 is amended to extend through FY2017:

 the requirement for an Inspector General report on participation in FAA programs by disadvantaged small business concerns, the advisory committee for aviation consumer protection, and the pilot program under which operators of up to four public-use airports may receive grants for activities related to the redevelopment of airport properties. The bill also extends through FY2019 the pilot program to integrate unmanned aircraft systems into the national airspace system at six test ranges.

Subtitle B--Revenue Provisions

(Sec. 1201) The bill amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend through FY2017 expenditure authority from the Airport and Airway Trust Fund, fuel and ticket taxes, as well as the exemption from ticket taxes for aircraft in fractional ownership aircraft programs.

TITLE II--AVIATION SAFETY CRITICAL REFORMS

Subtitle A--Safety

(Sec. 2101) The bill sets a deadline of April 30, 2017, for the FAA to establish and make available for use an electronic pilot records database.

(Sec. 2102) The FAA shall:

 consider the recommendations of the Pilot Fitness Aviation Rulemaking Committee in determining whether to implement additional screening for mental health conditions, including depression and suicidal thoughts, as part of the medical certification process for pilots with first- or second-class airman medical certificates; provide quarterly updates to Congress on the number of incidents involving the pointing of laser beams at aircraft, as well as impose a maximum civil penalty of $25,000 for persons who commit such acts; and evaluate and update standards for crash-resistant fuel systems for civilian rotorcraft. (Sec. 2103) The FAA shall consider Pilot Fitness Aviation Rulemaking Committee recommendations in determining whether to implement, as part of a comprehensive medical certification process for pilots with a first-or second-class airman medical certificate, additional screening for mental health conditions, including depression and suicidal thoughts or tendencies, and assess treatments that would address such conditions.

(Sec. 2104) The FAA shall:

 quarterly update Congress on the number of incidents involving a laser pointer being aimed at an aircraft in flight, as well as number of civil or criminal enforcement actions taken by the FAA, the Department of Transportation (DOT), or another federal agency with regard to such incidents; and revise and impose a maximum civil penalty of $25,000 against persons who aim a laser pointer at such aircraft. (Sec. 2105) The FAA shall evaluate and update standards for crash-resistant fuel systems for civilian rotorcraft.

(Sec. 2106) The FAA, in appointing air traffic controllers, shall give preferential consideration to qualified individuals maintaining 52 consecutive weeks of experience involving the the full-time active separation of air traffic after receipt of an air traffic certification or facility rating within 5 years of application while serving at an FAA air traffic control facility, a civilian or military air traffic control facility of the Department of Defense (DOD), or a tower operating under contract with the FAA.

The FAA shall consider additional applicants by referring an approximately equal number of employees for appointment among two applicant pools. The number referred from each group shall not differ by more than 10%.

Pool one applicants are individuals who:

 have successfully completed air traffic controller training and graduated from an institution participating in the Collegiate Training Initiative program and have received an appropriate recommendation or endorsement from such institution, are eligible for a veterans recruitment appointment and provide a Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty within 120 days of the announcement closing, are veterans eligible for veterans' benefits who maintain aviation experience obtained in the course of the individual's military experience, or are preference eligible veterans. Pool two applicants are individuals who apply under a vacancy announcement recruiting from all U.S. citizens.

The FAA: (1) shall not use a biographical assessment when hiring, (2) must provide an individual who applied in response to a specified 2014 vacancy announcement and was disqualified as the result of a biographical assessment an opportunity to reapply under the revised hiring practices, and (3) must waive any maximum age limit for such reapplying applicants who met such requirement when they applied under such announcement.

The maximum age limit for an original appointment as an air traffic controller shall be 35 years of age.

The FAA shall consider directly notifying secondary schools and institutes of higher learning of a vacancy announcement for pool one applicants.

(Sec. 2107) The Government Accountability Office (GAO) shall submit to Congress a report assessing air carrier personnel and contractor training programs providing assistance for persons with disabilities. DOT, based on report findings, shall develop, make publicly available, and disseminate to air carriers best practices to improve those programs.

(Sec. 2108) DOT shall issue the supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking referenced in DOT's Report on Significant Rulemakings, dated June 15, 2015.

(Sec. 2109) The FAA may enter into a reimbursable agreement with an applicant for, or holder, of FAA type certificates for aircraft, aircraft engines, and propellers for reasonable FAA travel and per diem expenses associated with official travel to expedite a foreign country's acceptance or validation of an FAA certificate or design approval or FAA's acceptance or validation of a foreign authority certificate or design approval.

(Sec. 2110) The FAA shall issue regulations to require that a covered tower be clearly marked in a manner consistent with applicable guidance under the FAA Advisory Circular issued December 4, 2015.

A "covered tower" means a structure that:

 is self-standing or supported by guy wires and ground anchors; is 10 feet or less in diameter at the above-ground base; is at least 50 feet and no more than 200 feet above ground level; has accessory facilities on which an antenna, sensor, camera, meteorological instrument, or other equipment is mounted; and is located outside the boundaries of an incorporated city or town, or on undeveloped or agricultural lands. The FAA shall develop a database that contains the location and height of each tower.

(Sec. 2111) The FAA shall develop a comprehensive and strategic framework of principles and policies to reduce cyber security risks to the national airspace system, civil aviation, and FAA information systems.

The FAA shall implement the open recommendation issued in 2015 by the GAO to assess and research the potential cost and timetable of developing a FAA threat model, updated regularly, to strengthen FAA cybersecurity systems.

The FAA shall:

 report to Congress on a cybersecurity standards plan to improve implementation of the National Institute of Standards and Technology's latest revisions to information security guidance for FAA information and FAA information systems within set timeframes, and establish a cybersecurity research and development plan for the national airspace system. (Sec. 2112) The FAA shall take measures to ensure that the FAA safety assessment system for foreign repair stations:

 places particular consideration on inspections of foreign repair stations that conduct scheduled heavy maintenance work on domestic air carrier aircraft, and accounts for the frequency and seriousness of any corrective actions implemented by carriers to aircraft following work performed by the repair stations. The FAA shall ensure that:

 a notice of proposed rulemaking requiring the testing of all foreign repair station employees responsible for safety-sensitive maintenance on air carrier aircraft for alcohol and controlled substances is published in the Federal Register, and the rulemaking is finalized; and such employees have undergone a pre-employment background check. (Sec. 2113) The bill revises certain training requirements for flight attendants to require each air carrier to provide initial and annual training to flight attendants on recognizing and responding to potential human trafficking victims.

Subtitle B--UAS Safety

(Sec. 2202) The FAA shall convene industry stakeholders to develop, and report to Congress on, consensus standards for remotely identifying operators and owners of unmanned aircraft (drones).

(Sec. 2203) A manufacturer of a small drone shall make available to the drone owner at the time of delivery a safety statement containing specified information. A violator of this requirement shall be subject to certain civil penalties.

(Sec. 2204) The FAA shall enter into agreements with the Department of the Interior and the Department of Agriculture to continue the expeditious authorization of safe drone operations in support of firefighting operations consistent with certain requirements.

The FAA shall also enter into agreements with the Department of Energy and such other agencies and parties, including the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), to facilitate the expeditious authorization of safe drone operations in support of utility restoration.

(Sec. 2205) A drone operator who knowingly or recklessly interferes with a wildfire suppression, law enforcement, or emergency response shall be subject to a civil penalty of not more than $20,000.

The bill exempts from such requirement drone operations conducted by the U.S. Government or a state, tribal, or local government to protect the public safety and welfare, including firefighting, law enforcement, or emergency response operations.

The FAA may impose civil penalties for violations of the requirement.

(Sec. 2206) The FAA shall establish a pilot program for use of drones for airspace hazard mitigation at airports and other critical infrastructure.

The FAA shall work with DOD, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and the heads of other relevant federal agencies to ensure that technologies developed by such agencies to mitigate threats posed by errant or hostile drones do not interfere with the safe operation of airports and the national airspace system.

The FAA may use such drones to detect and mitigate unauthorized drone operations that pose a risk to aviation safety upon termination of the pilot program.

(Sec. 2207) The FAA shall publish guidance for an emergency exception application process for civil or public operator drone use in response to a catastrophe, disaster, or other emergency response operations, such as firefighting, search and rescue, and utility and infrastructure restoration operations.

(Sec. 2208) The FAA, in coordination with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), shall continue development of a research plan for unmanned aircraft traffic management development and deployment.

The FAA shall report the plan to Congress and publish it on its website.

The FAA, in coordination with NASA, the Drone Advisory Committee, the FAA research advisory committee, and unmanned aircraft industry representatives, shall establish an unmanned aircraft traffic management system pilot program.

(Sec. 2209) DOT shall establish procedures for applicants to petition the FAA to prohibit or restrict the operation of drones in close proximity to a fixed site facility (an affirmative designation).

A "fixed site facility" is considered to be:

 critical infrastructure, such as energy production, transmission, and distribution facilities and equipment; oil refineries and chemical facilities; amusement parks; and other locations that warrant such restrictions. The FAA shall publish designations on a public website.

(Sec. 2210) Any application process for the safe operation of drones in the national airspace system shall allow for a person to apply to the FAA to operate a drone beyond the visual line of sight of the drone operator and during the day or night to:

 ensure compliance with federal or state regulatory requirements for permits for new pipeline or pipeline systems construction or maintenance or rehabilitation of existing pipelines or pipeline systems, as well as natural gas and hazardous liquid pipeline safety regulations; inspect, repair, construct, or protect covered facilities; and respond to a natural or man made disaster, severe weather event, or other incident that may cause material damage to such facilities. A "covered facility" means:

 a pipeline or pipeline system; an electric energy generation, transmission, or distribution facility, including a renewable electric energy facility; an oil or gas production, refining, or processing facility; or any other critical infrastructure facility. The FAA shall certify to Congress that an application process has been established for such drones.

(Sec. 2211) The bill amends the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 to revise FAA's five-year roadmap to include, at a minimum, a description of FAA research and development (R&D) plans and certain other information to integrate drones into the national airspace system.

(Sec. 2212) The FAA shall develop a program to research the collision of drones with manned aircraft.

(Sec. 2213) The FAA shall enter into an arrangement with the National Academy of Sciences to study the potential FAA use of probabilistic assessments of risks to streamline the integration of drones into the national airspace system, including any R&D.

Subtitle C--Time Sensitive Aviation Reforms

(Sec. 2301) The bill prescribes a special rule to require DOT for FY2017 to apportion amounts for airport planning and development and noise compatibility planning and programs to sponsors of primary airports based on the number of passenger boardings at the airport during calendar year 2012 if it had:

 10,000 or more passenger boardings during calendar year 2012, fewer than 10,000 passenger boardings during the calendar year used to calculate the apportionment for FY2017, and scheduled air service at any point during the calendar year used to calculate the apportionment for FY2017. (Sec. 2302) DOT may authorize the use of passenger facility charges (PFC) for customs services to finance an eligible airport-related project if:

 the eligible agency seeking to impose the new charge controls an airport where a $2.00 PFC became effective on January 1, 2013; and the location of the project to be financed by the new charge is at an airport that was under the control of the same eligible agency that had controlled the airport described above. (Sec. 2303) DOT shall establish a working group on improving air service to small communities.

(Sec. 2304) The bill:

 provides that calculation of the basic annuity benefits for an air traffic controller with at least five years of service actively engaged in the separation and control of air traffic shall include service as a first or second level supervisor of such a controller, makes such change effective retroactive to December 12, 2003, and provides for a lump sum payment to each affected annuitant equal to the additional total benefit amount such annuitant would have received had such change been in effect on such date. The Office of Personnel Management shall establish such procedures as necessary to provide for:

 notification to each annuitant affected by this bill; recalculation of the benefits of affected annuitants; an adjustment to applicable monthly benefit amounts pursuant to such recalculation, to begin as soon as practicable; and such lump sum payment. (Sec. 2305) DOT shall issue final regulations to require air carriers or foreign air carriers to promptly provide an automated refund of check baggage fees paid by an air passenger if:

 the air carriers fail to deliver the checked baggage to the passenger within 12 hours after the arrival of a domestic flight or within 15 hours after arrival of an international flight, and the passenger has notified the air carriers of the lost or delayed check baggage. If DOT determines the requirement is not feasible and would adversely affect consumers in certain cases, it may modify one or both deadlines, except that the deadline may not exceed:

 18 hours after the arrival of a domestic flight, and 30 hours after the arrival of an international flight. (Sec. 2306) The FAA shall report to Congress on the effects of the loss of contract weather observer service at 57 targeted airports.

The FAA may not discontinue the contract weather observer program until October 1, 2017.

(Sec. 2307) The bill directs the FAA to issue or revise medical certification regulations to ensure that an individual may operate as a pilot of a covered aircraft if the flight meets certain criteria and the individual:

 possesses a valid driver's license issued by a state, territory, or U.S. possession; complies with medical requirements associated with that license; holds an FAA medical certificate on the date of enactment of this bill, held such a certificate at any point during the 10-year period preceding the date of enactment, or obtains one after the date of enactment; is transporting five or fewer passengers, and is operating under visual or instrument flight rules. The most recent FAA medical certificate to the individual:

 must indicate whether it is first, second, or third class; may include authorization for special issuance; may be expired; cannot have been revoked or suspended; and cannot have been withdrawn. The individual's most recent application to the FAA for airman medical certification cannot have been denied.

The individual must also have completed an Internet medical education course, meeting specified criteria and free of charge, during the 24 calendar months before acting as pilot in command of a covered aircraft. Successful completion of the course shall trigger an electronic release authorizing the National Driver Register through a designated state department of motor vehicles to furnish the FAA with information about the individual's driving record.

If diagnosed with any medical condition that may impact ability to fly, the individual must, when serving as a pilot in command, be under a physician's care and treatment.

The individual must have received a comprehensive medical examination from a state-licensed physician during the previous 48 months and met certain pre-examination requirements involving a checklist of medical conditions and medications.

An individual who has qualified for the third-class medical certificate exemption and is seeking to serve as a pilot in command of a covered aircraft shall be required to have completed the process for obtaining an Authorization for Special Issuance of a Medical Certificate for each of a specified list of mental health disorders, neurological disorders, and cardiovascular conditions. The bill prescribes special rules for such disorders and conditions. The FAA shall review and identify additional medical conditions that could be added to the Conditions Aviation Medical Examiners (AMEs) Can Issue (CACI) program (which allows AMEs to issue airman medical certificates that previously had to be deferred to the Aerospace Medical Certification Division or the Regional Flight Surgeon's Office for further review). The FAA shall also implement procedures to expedite the process for obtaining an Authorization for Special Issuance of a Medical Certificate. Beginning one year after enactment of this bill, the FAA may not take an enforcement action for not holding a valid third-class medical certificate against a pilot of a covered aircraft for a flight, if the pilot and the flight meet, through a good faith effort, certain requirements, unless the FAA has published in the Federal Register final regulations for the medical certification of small aircraft pilots. A "covered aircraft" is one that: is authorized under federal law to carry not more than six occupants, and has a maximum certificated takeoff weight of no more than 6,000 pounds. The requirements of this section shall not apply to pilots electing to operate under regulations for operations not requiring a medical certificate or for operations requiring either a medical certificate or U.S. driver's license.

If it receives credible or urgent information, including from the National Driver Register or the FAA Safety Hotline, that reflects on an individual's ability to safely operate a covered aircraft under the third-class medical certificate exemption, the FAA may require the individual to provide additional information or history so that it may determine whether the individual is safe to continue operating a covered aircraft. The FAA may use such information to request an individual to provide additional information or to take actions to amend, modify, suspend, or revoke the individual's airman certificate.

(Sec. 2308) The bill revises requirements for air carrier and airport operator emergency contingency plans to require an air carrier to deplane an aircraft and return to the airport terminal when there is an excessive tarmac delay within:

 three hours after the main aircraft door closes in the case of a domestic flight, and four hours after the main door closes in the case of an international flight. (Sec. 2309) DOT shall review and, if appropriate, establish a policy to require all air carriers to establish a policy that enables a child, age 13 or under on a scheduled flight, to be seated in a seat adjacent to the seat of an accompanying family member over age 13, except when assignment to an adjacent seat would require an upgrade to another cabin class or a seat with extra legroom or seat pitch for an additional charge.

TITLE III--AVIATION SECURITY

Aviation Security Act of 2016

Subtitle A--TSA PreCheck Expansion

(Sec. 3101) The bill directs the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) of DHS to continue to administer the Precheck Program (trusted traveler program).

 (Sec. 3102) The TSA shall publish application enrollment standards that add multiple private sector application capabilities for the PreCheck program to increase the public's enrollment access to such program.

Upon publication of such standards, the TSA must:

 coordinate with interested parties to deploy TSA-approved ready-to-market private sector solutions that meet such standards, make available additional enrollment capabilities, and offer secure online and mobile enrollment opportunities; partner with the private sector to collect biographic and biometric identification information via mobile enrollment platforms to increase enrollment flexibility and minimize the amount of travel to enrollment centers for applicants; ensure that any biometric and biographic information is collected in a manner that is comparable with National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) standards and that protects privacy and data security, including that any personally identifiable information is collected, retained, used, and shared in a manner consistent with the Privacy Act of 1974; ensure that the enrollment process is streamlined and flexible to allow an individual to provide additional information to complete enrollment and verify identity; ensure that any enrollment expansion using a private sector risk assessment is determined to be equivalent to a fingerprint-based criminal history records check conducted through the Federal Bureau of Investigation; ensure that the TSA has certified that reasonable procedures are in place with regard to accuracy of information employed in private sector risk assessments; develop and implement a continual process for approving private sector marketing of the PreCheck program and a long-term strategy for partnering with the private sector to encourage enrollment; and report on any PreCheck Program application fees collected in excess of the costs of administering the program, including assessment of its feasibility and recommendations for using such fees to support its marketing. The TSA shall:

 coordinate with the heads of appropriate DHS components to leverage DHS-held data and technologies to verify the citizenship of individuals enrolling in the Pre-Check program; partner with the private sector to use biometrics and authentication standards such as those developed by NIST to facilitate enrollment; consider leveraging existing airport resources to conduct fingerprint and background checks to expedite identity verification; ensure that PreCheck Program screening lanes are available during peak and high-volume travel times at airports to enrolled individuals; provide for expedited screening at standard screening lanes during times when PreCheck Program screening lanes are closed; and initiate an assessment to identify security vulnerabilities in the vetting process for the PreCheck program, including whether subjecting program participants to recurrent fingerprint-based criminal history records checks, in addition to recurrent checks against the terrorist watchlist, could be done in a cost-effective manner to strengthen the security of the program. Subtitle B--Securing Aviation From Foreign Entry Points and Guarding Airports Through Enhanced Security

(Sec. 3201) The TSA shall conduct a comprehensive security risk assessment of all last point of departure airports with nonstop flights to the United States.

(Sec. 3202) The TSA shall submit to Congress and the GAO a plan: (1) to enhance collaboration, coordination, and information-sharing about international-inbound aviation between the United States and domestic and foreign partners in order to enhance security capabilities at foreign airports; and (2) that assesses the TSA's ability to enter into a mutual agreement with a foreign government entity to permit TSA representatives to conduct inspections of foreign airports without prior notice.

The GAO shall review TSA efforts to enhance security capabilities at foreign airports and determine if the implementation of such efforts and capabilities effectively secures international-inbound aviation.

(Sec. 3203) The TSA shall submit to Congress a comprehensive workforce assessment of all TSA personnel within its Office of Global Strategies or whose primary professional duties contribute to the TSA's global efforts to secure transportation security, including whether they are assigned in a risk-based, intelligence-driven manner.

(Sec. 3204) The TSA may donate security screening equipment to a foreign last point of departure airport operator if the equipment can be expected to mitigate a specific vulnerability to U.S. security or U.S. citizens.

The TSA shall provide to specified congressional committees within 30 days of any such donation a detailed written explanation of:

 the specific vulnerability to the United States or U.S. citizens that will be mitigated by such donation, an explanation as to why the recipient of such donation is unable or unwilling to purchase security screening equipment to mitigate such vulnerability, an evacuation plan for sensitive technologies in case of emergency or instability in the country to which such donation is being made, how the TSA will ensure the security screening equipment that is being donated is used and maintained over the course of its life by the recipient, and the total dollar value of such donation. (Sec. 3205) The TSA may evaluate foreign countries' air cargo programs to determine whether they provide a level of security commensurate with that required by U.S. air cargo security programs. If so, the TSA shall approve and officially recognize such country's program, in which case such country shall not be required to adhere to the U.S. programs that would otherwise be applicable. The bill provides for revocation or temporary suspension of approval and official recognition if the TSA determines that a country's program no longer provides a level of security commensurate with that required by U.S. air cargo security programs.

The requirements of this section shall apply irrespective of whether cargo is transported on an aircraft of an air carrier, foreign air carrier, a cargo carrier, or a foreign cargo carrier.

(Sec. 3206) The TSA shall establish an international training and capacity development program to train appropriate foreign government authorities in air transportation security.

Subtitle C--Checkpoint Optimization and Efficiency

(Sec. 3301) The bill expresses the sense of Congress that airport checkpoint wait times should not take priority over the security of the U.S. aviation system.

(Sec. 3302) The TSA shall begin and complete, within 30 days after enactment of this bill, an assessment of its staffing allocation model to determine the necessary staffing positions, including use of canine explosives detection teams and technology, at all U.S. airports at which the TSA operates passenger checkpoints.

The staffing allocation model shall be based on staffing levels necessary to maintain minimal passenger wait times and maximum security effectiveness.

The TSA shall require each Federal Security Director to engage regularly with appropriate aviation security stakeholders to exchange information regarding airport and security operations.

The GAO shall review the staffing allocation model.

(Sec. 3303) The TSA shall also:

 require Transportation Security Officers with appropriate certifications and training to be assigned to passenger and baggage security screening functions; use other TSA personnel who may not have certification and training to screen passengers or baggage for tasks not directly related to security screening, including restocking bins and giving instructions and support to passengers in security lines; assess headquarters personnel; and reassign appropriate personnel to assist with airport security screening activities on a permanent or temporary basis. (Sec. 3304) Within 30 days after enactment of this bill, the TSA shall:

 utilize TSA Behavior Detection Officers for passenger and baggage security screening, including the verification of traveler documents, particularly at designated PreCheck lanes to ensure that they are operational for use and maximum efficiency; make every practicable effort to grant additional flexibility and authority to Federal Security Directors in matters related to checkpoint and checked baggage staffing allocation and employee overtime in furtherance of maintaining minimal passenger wait times and maximum security effectiveness; disseminate to aviation security stakeholders and appropriate TSA personnel a list of checkpoint optimization best practices; and request the Aviation Security Advisory Committee to make recommendations on best practices for checkpoint operations optimization. By the same 30-day deadline, the TSA shall direct each Federal Security Director to coordinate local representatives of aviation security stakeholders to establish a staffing advisory working group at each airport at which the TSA oversees or performs passenger security screening to give recommendations to TSA on Transportation Security Officer staffing numbers.

(Sec. 3305) The bill defines the term "aviation security stakeholders" to mean air carriers, airport operators, and labor organizations representing Transportation Security Officers or contract screeners.

Subtitle D--Aviation Security Enhancement and Oversight

(Sec. 3402) The TSA shall assess the level of risk posed to the domestic air transportation system by individuals with unescorted access to a secure area of an airport.

(Sec. 3403) The TSA shall update DHS rules on access controls, considering specified matters.

The TSA may encourage the issuance by airport and aircraft operators in a timely manner of free, one-time, 24-hour temporary credentials for workers who have timely reported their credentials missing, but not permanently lost, stolen, or destroyed, until replacement of such credentials is necessary.

(Sec. 3404) The TSA shall issue guidance to airport operators for placing an expiration date on each airport credential issued to a non-U.S. citizen, which shall not exceed the period of time he or she is lawfully authorized to work in the United States.

The TSA shall:

 also issue guidance for transportation security inspectors to review annually the procedures of airport operators and air carriers for applicants seeking unescorted access to any Secure Identification Display Area (SIDA) of an airport; and make available to airport operators and air carriers information on identifying suspicious or fraudulent identification materials. This guidance shall require a comprehensive review of background checks and employment authorization documents issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services during the review of procedures.

(Sec. 3405) The TSA shall:

 revise certain regulations to enhance the eligibility requirements and disqualifying criminal offenses for individuals seeking or having unescorted access to an airport's SIDA; and propose disqualification if the individual was convicted, or found not guilty by reason of insanity, of a disqualifying criminal offense within 15 years before the date of an individual's application, or if the individual was incarcerated for that crime and released within 5 years before that date. The TSA shall ensure the existence or development of a waiver process for approving the issuance of credentials for unescorted access to a SIDA for an individual found to be otherwise ineligible for such credentials, but about whom circumstances permit the conclusion the individual poses no terrorism risk or any other risk to aviation security warranting denial of the credential.

Both the TSA and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) shall implement fully the FBI's Rap Back service for recurrent criminal history vetting of eligible TSA-regulated populations of individuals with unescorted access to an airport SIDA. (The FBI Rap Back Service notifies authorized agencies of criminal, and, in limited cases, civil activity of individuals that occurs after the initial processing and retention of criminal or civil transactions.)

The TSA and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence shall ensure that the TSA may receive automated, real-time access to additional Terrorist Identities Datamart Environment (TIDE) data and any other terrorism related category codes to improve the TSA credential vetting program.

DHS shall authorize direct access for each airport operator to the E-Verify program and the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) automated system to determine the eligibility of individuals seeking unescorted access to an airport SIDA.

(Sec. 3406) The TSA shall develop performance metrics to measure the effectiveness of security for airport SIDAs.

(Sec. 3407) The TSA shall also:

 develop a model and best practices for unescorted access security meeting specified criteria, expand the use of TSA officers and inspectors to conduct physical inspections of airport workers in each airport SIDA and at each SIDA access point, and review airports that have implemented additional airport worker screening or perimeter security. The TSA may conduct a pilot program to test and validate best practices for comprehensive airport worker screening or perimeter security.

(Sec. 3408) The TSA shall:

 increase the use of red-team, covert testing of access controls to any secure airport areas; and review for continued relevancy and appropriate updating, consolidation, or revocation of every current security directive addressed to any regulated entity. (Sec. 3410) The GAO shall assess TSA progress in implementing the requirements of this bill and their effect on aviation security.

(Sec. 3411) A member of the Aviation Stakeholder Advisory Committee may continue to serve beyond the expiration of his or her term until the TSA appoints a successor.

Subtitle E--Checkpoints of the Future

(Sec. 3501) The TSA shall request the Aviation Security Advisory Committee to develop recommendations for more efficient and effective passenger screening processes. The Committee shall consider the following:

 the configuration of a checkpoint; technology innovation; ways to address any vulnerabilities identified in audits of checkpoint operations; ways to prevent security breaches at airports at which federal security screening is provided; best practices in aviation security; recommendations from airport and aircraft operators, and from any relevant advisory committees; and "curb to curb" processes and procedures. (Sec. 3502) The TSA shall establish a pilot program at three and not more than six category X airports to reconfigure and install security systems that increase efficiency and reduce vulnerabilities in airport terminals, particularly those that have large open areas where screening occurs.

(Sec. 3503) The TSA shall also establish a pilot program at three airports to develop and test prototypes of screening security systems and security checkpoint configurations to expedite the movement of passengers by deploying an array of technologies including passive and active systems, new types of security baggage and passenger screening systems, and new systems to address passenger and baggage anomalies.

(Sec. 3504) The TSA shall report to Congress on the pilot programs.

(Sec. 3505) The TSA shall carry out the pilot programs using amounts:

 appropriated to it before enactment of this bill and available for obligation as of such enactment, and obtained as reimbursements from airports under such pilot programs. Subtitle F--Miscellaneous Provisions

(Sec. 3601) The bill amends the Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007 to require Visible Intermodal Prevention and Response (VIPR) teams to conduct security operations:

 in the sterile areas and other areas of airports where credentialed individuals have unescorted access, and in nonsterile areas. The bill reauthorizes the VIPR program, including funds to develop not more than 60 VIPR teams, for FY2016-FY2018. (Authorization for the VIPR program expired after FY2011.)

(Sec. 3602) The bill amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to direct DHS to ensure that certain terrorism prevention grant funds to state, local, and tribal governments are used for:

 training exercises to enhance preparedness for and response to mass casualty and active shooter incidents and security events at public locations, including airports and mass transit systems;and enhancing the security and preparedness of secure and nonsecure areas of airports and surface transportation systems.

safety security act title faa extension subtitle airport sec bill reauthorizes faa specified faa programs including airport improvement program air navigation facilities equipment research engineering development essential air service sec following expiring authorities extended fy2017 including competition disclosure requirement development project grant large hub airport medium hub airport eligibility small airport grants sponsors airports republic_of_the_marshall_islands federated_states micronesia republic palau air traffic control contract program state local government compatible land use planning projects department_of_transportation dot authority agreements provide assistance underserved airports bill amends vision -century aviation reauthorization act extend date authorization airport development midway island airport authority final order respect eligibility essential air service compensation faa_modernization reform act amended extend fy2017 requirement inspector general report participation faa programs disadvantaged small business concerns advisory committee aviation consumer protection pilot program operators public use airports receive grants activities related redevelopment airport properties bill extends fy2019 pilot program integrate unmanned aircraft systems national airspace system test ranges subtitle revenue provisions sec bill amends internal_revenue_code extend fy2017 expenditure authority airport airway_trust_fund fuel ticket taxes exemption ticket taxes aircraft fractional ownership aircraft programs title aviation safety critical reforms subtitle safety sec bill sets deadline april faa establish available use electronic pilot records database sec faa shall consider recommendations determining implement additional screening mental health conditions including depression suicidal medical certification process pilots first- second class airman medical certificates provide quarterly updates congress number incidents involving laser aircraft impose maximum civil penalty persons commit acts evaluate update standards crash resistant fuel systems civilian sec faa shall consider recommendations determining implement comprehensive medical certification process pilots second class airman medical certificate additional screening mental health conditions including depression suicidal assess treatments address conditions sec faa shall quarterly update congress number incidents involving laser aimed aircraft flight number civil criminal enforcement actions taken faa department_of_transportation dot federal agency regard incidents revise impose maximum civil penalty persons aim laser aircraft sec faa shall evaluate update standards crash resistant fuel systems civilian sec faa appointing air traffic controllers shall preferential consideration qualified individuals maintaining consecutive weeks experience involving time active separation air traffic receipt air traffic certification facility rating years application serving faa air traffic control facility civilian military air traffic control facility department_of_defense dod tower operating contract faa faa shall consider additional applicants referring approximately equal number employees appointment applicant pools number referred group shall differ pool applicants individuals successfully completed air traffic controller training graduated institution participating collegiate training initiative program received appropriate recommendation endorsement institution eligible veterans recruitment appointment provide certificate release discharge active duty days announcement closing veterans eligible veterans benefits maintain aviation experience obtained course individual military experience preference eligible veterans pool applicants individuals apply vacancy announcement recruiting citizens faa shall use biographical assessment hiring provide individual applied response specified vacancy announcement disqualified result biographical assessment opportunity reapply revised hiring practices waive maximum age limit applicants met requirement applied announcement maximum age limit original appointment air traffic controller shall years age faa shall consider directly notifying secondary schools institutes higher learning vacancy announcement pool applicants sec government_accountability_office gao shall submit congress report assessing air carrier personnel contractor training programs providing assistance persons disabilities dot based report findings shall develop publicly available disseminate air carriers best practices improve programs sec dot shall issue supplemental notice proposed rulemaking referenced dot report dated june sec faa enter reimbursable agreement applicant holder faa type certificates aircraft aircraft engines propellers reasonable faa travel diem expenses associated official travel expedite foreign country acceptance validation faa certificate design approval faa acceptance validation foreign authority certificate design approval sec faa shall issue regulations require covered tower clearly marked manner consistent applicable guidance faa advisory circular issued december covered tower means structure self standing supported ground anchors feet diameter ground base feet feet ground level accessory facilities antenna sensor camera meteorological instrument equipment mounted located outside boundaries incorporated city town undeveloped agricultural lands faa shall develop database contains location height tower sec faa shall develop comprehensive strategic framework principles policies reduce cyber security risks national airspace system civil aviation faa information systems faa shall implement open recommendation issued gao assess research potential cost timetable developing faa threat model updated regularly strengthen faa cybersecurity systems faa shall report congress cybersecurity standards plan improve implementation national_institute_of_standards_and_technology latest revisions information security guidance faa information faa information systems set timeframes establish cybersecurity research development plan national airspace system sec faa shall measures ensure faa safety assessment system foreign repair stations places particular consideration inspections foreign repair stations conduct scheduled heavy maintenance work domestic air carrier aircraft accounts frequency corrective actions implemented carriers aircraft following work performed repair stations faa shall ensure notice proposed rulemaking requiring testing foreign repair station employees responsible safety sensitive maintenance air carrier aircraft alcohol controlled substances published federal_register rulemaking finalized employees undergone pre employment background check sec bill revises certain training requirements flight attendants require air carrier provide initial annual training flight attendants recognizing responding potential human trafficking victims subtitle sec faa shall convene industry stakeholders develop report congress consensus standards remotely identifying operators owners unmanned aircraft drones sec manufacturer small drone shall available drone owner time delivery safety statement containing specified information violator requirement shall subject certain civil penalties sec faa shall enter agreements department_of_the_interior_and_the_department_of_agriculture continue expeditious authorization safe drone operations support firefighting operations consistent certain requirements faa shall enter agreements department_of_energy agencies parties including federal_emergency_management_agency fema facilitate expeditious authorization safe drone operations support utility restoration sec drone operator knowingly recklessly interferes wildfire suppression law enforcement emergency response shall subject civil penalty bill exempts requirement drone operations conducted state tribal local government protect public safety welfare including firefighting law enforcement emergency response operations faa impose civil penalties violations requirement sec faa shall establish pilot program use drones airspace hazard mitigation airports critical infrastructure faa shall work dod department_of_homeland_security dhs heads relevant federal agencies ensure technologies developed agencies mitigate threats posed hostile drones interfere safe operation airports national airspace system faa use drones detect mitigate unauthorized drone operations pose risk aviation safety termination pilot program sec faa shall publish guidance emergency exception application process civil public operator drone use response catastrophe disaster emergency response operations firefighting search rescue utility infrastructure restoration operations sec faa coordination national_aeronautics_and_space_administration nasa shall continue development research plan unmanned aircraft traffic management development deployment faa shall report plan congress publish website faa coordination nasa faa research advisory committee unmanned aircraft industry representatives shall establish unmanned aircraft traffic management system pilot program sec dot shall establish procedures applicants petition faa prohibit restrict operation drones close proximity fixed site facility affirmative designation fixed site facility considered critical infrastructure energy production transmission distribution facilities equipment oil refineries chemical facilities amusement parks locations warrant restrictions faa shall publish designations public website sec application process safe operation drones national airspace system shall allow person apply faa operate drone visual line sight drone operator day night ensure compliance federal state regulatory requirements permits new pipeline pipeline systems construction maintenance rehabilitation existing pipelines pipeline systems natural gas hazardous liquid pipeline safety regulations inspect repair construct protect covered facilities respond natural man disaster severe weather event incident cause material damage facilities covered facility means pipeline pipeline system electric energy generation transmission distribution facility including renewable electric energy facility oil gas production refining processing facility critical infrastructure facility faa shall certify congress application process established drones sec bill amends faa_modernization reform act revise faa year roadmap include minimum description faa research development plans certain information integrate drones national airspace system sec faa shall develop program research collision drones manned aircraft sec faa shall enter arrangement national_academy_of_sciences study potential faa use assessments risks streamline integration drones national airspace system including subtitle time sensitive aviation reforms sec bill prescribes special rule require dot fy2017 apportion amounts airport planning development noise compatibility planning programs sponsors primary airports based number passenger boardings airport calendar year passenger boardings calendar year fewer passenger boardings calendar year calculate apportionment fy2017 scheduled air service point calendar year calculate apportionment fy2017 sec dot authorize use passenger facility charges pfc customs services finance eligible airport related project eligible agency seeking impose new charge controls airport pfc effective january location project financed new charge airport control eligible agency controlled airport described sec dot shall establish working group improving air service small communities sec bill provides calculation basic annuity benefits air traffic controller years service actively engaged separation control air traffic shall include service second level supervisor controller makes change effective retroactive december provides lump sum payment affected annuitant equal additional total benefit annuitant received change effect date office_of_personnel_management shall establish procedures necessary provide notification annuitant affected bill recalculation benefits affected annuitants adjustment applicable monthly benefit amounts pursuant recalculation begin soon practicable lump sum payment sec dot shall issue final regulations require air carriers foreign air carriers promptly provide automated refund check baggage fees paid air passenger air carriers fail deliver checked baggage passenger hours arrival domestic flight hours arrival international flight passenger notified air carriers lost delayed check baggage dot determines requirement feasible adversely affect consumers certain cases modify deadlines deadline exceed hours arrival domestic flight hours arrival international flight sec faa shall report congress effects loss contract weather observer service targeted airports faa discontinue contract weather observer program october sec bill directs faa issue revise medical certification regulations ensure individual operate pilot covered aircraft flight meets certain criteria individual possesses valid driver license issued state territory possession complies medical requirements associated license holds faa medical certificate date enactment bill held certificate point year period preceding date enactment obtains date enactment transporting fewer passengers operating visual instrument flight rules recent faa medical certificate individual indicate second class include authorization special issuance expired revoked suspended withdrawn individual recent application faa airman medical certification denied individual completed internet medical education course meeting specified criteria free charge calendar months acting pilot command covered aircraft successful completion course shall trigger electronic release authorizing national_driver_register designated state department motor vehicles furnish faa information individual driving record diagnosed medical condition impact ability fly individual serving pilot command physician care treatment individual received comprehensive medical examination state licensed physician previous months met certain pre examination requirements involving checklist medical conditions medications individual qualified class medical certificate exemption seeking serve pilot command covered aircraft shall required completed process obtaining authorization special issuance medical certificate specified list mental health disorders neurological disorders cardiovascular conditions bill prescribes special rules disorders conditions faa shall review identify additional medical conditions added ames issue program allows ames issue airman medical certificates previously deferred review faa shall implement procedures expedite process obtaining authorization special issuance medical certificate beginning year enactment bill faa enforcement action holding valid class medical certificate pilot covered aircraft flight pilot flight meet good faith effort certain requirements faa published federal_register final regulations medical certification small aircraft pilots covered aircraft authorized federal law carry occupants maximum certificated takeoff weight pounds requirements section shall apply pilots electing operate regulations operations requiring medical certificate operations requiring medical certificate driver license receives credible urgent information including national_driver_register reflects individual ability safely operate covered aircraft class medical certificate exemption faa require individual provide additional information history determine individual safe continue operating covered aircraft faa use information request individual provide additional information actions amend modify suspend revoke individual airman certificate sec bill revises requirements air carrier airport operator emergency contingency plans require air carrier deplane aircraft return airport terminal excessive tarmac delay hours main aircraft door closes case domestic flight hours main door closes case international flight sec dot shall review appropriate establish policy require air carriers establish policy enables child age scheduled flight seat adjacent seat accompanying family member age assignment adjacent seat require upgrade cabin class seat extra seat additional charge title iii aviation security aviation security act subtitle tsa precheck expansion sec bill directs transportation_security_administration tsa dhs continue administer trusted traveler program sec tsa shall publish application enrollment standards add multiple private sector application capabilities precheck program increase public enrollment access program publication standards tsa coordinate interested parties deploy tsa approved ready market private sector solutions meet standards available additional enrollment capabilities offer secure online mobile enrollment opportunities partner private sector collect biographic biometric identification information mobile enrollment platforms increase enrollment flexibility minimize travel enrollment centers applicants ensure biometric biographic information collected manner comparable national_institute_of_standards_and_technology nist standards protects privacy data security including personally identifiable information collected retained shared manner consistent privacy_act ensure enrollment process streamlined flexible allow individual provide additional information complete enrollment verify identity ensure enrollment expansion private sector risk assessment determined equivalent fingerprint based criminal history records check conducted federal_bureau_of_investigation ensure tsa certified reasonable procedures place regard accuracy information employed private sector risk assessments develop implement continual process approving private sector marketing precheck program long term strategy partnering private sector encourage enrollment report application fees collected excess costs administering program including assessment feasibility recommendations fees support marketing tsa shall coordinate heads appropriate dhs components leverage dhs held data technologies verify citizenship individuals enrolling pre check program partner private sector use biometrics authentication standards developed nist facilitate enrollment consider leveraging existing airport resources conduct fingerprint background checks expedite identity verification ensure screening lanes available peak high volume travel times airports enrolled individuals provide expedited screening standard screening lanes times screening lanes closed initiate assessment identify security vulnerabilities vetting process precheck program including subjecting program participants recurrent fingerprint based criminal history records checks addition recurrent checks terrorist watchlist cost effective manner strengthen security program subtitle securing aviation foreign entry points airports enhanced security sec tsa shall conduct comprehensive security risk assessment point departure airports nonstop flights united_states sec tsa shall submit congress gao plan enhance collaboration coordination information sharing international inbound aviation united_states domestic foreign partners order enhance security capabilities foreign airports assesses tsa ability enter mutual agreement foreign government entity permit tsa representatives conduct inspections foreign airports prior notice gao shall review tsa efforts enhance security capabilities foreign airports determine implementation efforts capabilities effectively secures international inbound aviation sec tsa shall submit congress comprehensive workforce assessment tsa personnel primary professional duties contribute tsa global efforts secure transportation security including assigned risk based intelligence driven manner sec tsa donate security screening equipment foreign point departure airport operator equipment expected mitigate specific vulnerability security citizens tsa shall provide specified congressional committees days donation detailed written explanation specific vulnerability united_states citizens mitigated donation explanation recipient donation unable unwilling purchase security screening equipment mitigate vulnerability evacuation plan sensitive technologies case emergency instability country donation tsa ensure security screening equipment donated maintained course life recipient total dollar value donation sec tsa evaluate foreign countries air cargo programs determine provide level security commensurate required air cargo security programs tsa shall approve officially recognize country program case country shall required adhere programs applicable bill provides revocation temporary suspension approval official recognition tsa determines country program longer provides level security commensurate required air cargo security programs requirements section shall apply irrespective cargo transported aircraft air carrier foreign air carrier cargo carrier foreign cargo carrier sec tsa shall establish international training capacity development program train appropriate foreign government authorities air transportation security subtitle checkpoint optimization efficiency sec bill expresses sense congress airport checkpoint wait times priority security aviation system sec tsa shall begin complete days enactment bill assessment staffing allocation model determine necessary staffing positions including use canine explosives detection teams technology airports tsa operates passenger checkpoints staffing allocation model shall based staffing levels necessary maintain minimal passenger wait times maximum security effectiveness tsa shall require director engage regularly appropriate aviation security stakeholders exchange information airport security operations gao shall review staffing allocation model sec tsa shall require appropriate certifications training assigned passenger baggage security screening functions use tsa personnel certification training screen passengers baggage tasks directly related security screening including giving instructions support passengers security lines assess headquarters personnel reassign appropriate personnel assist airport security screening activities permanent temporary basis sec days enactment bill tsa shall utilize passenger baggage security screening including verification traveler documents particularly designated precheck lanes ensure operational use maximum efficiency practicable effort grant additional flexibility authority directors matters related checkpoint checked baggage staffing allocation employee overtime furtherance maintaining minimal passenger wait times maximum security effectiveness disseminate aviation security stakeholders appropriate tsa personnel list checkpoint optimization best practices request aviation_security_advisory_committee recommendations best practices checkpoint operations optimization day deadline tsa shall direct director coordinate local representatives aviation security stakeholders establish staffing advisory working group airport tsa oversees performs passenger security screening recommendations tsa staffing numbers sec bill defines term aviation security stakeholders mean air carriers airport operators labor organizations representing contract screeners subtitle aviation security enhancement oversight sec tsa shall assess level risk posed domestic air transportation system individuals unescorted access secure area airport sec tsa shall update dhs rules access controls considering specified matters tsa encourage issuance airport aircraft operators timely manner free time hour temporary credentials workers timely reported credentials missing permanently lost stolen destroyed replacement credentials necessary sec tsa shall issue guidance airport operators placing expiration date airport credential issued citizen shall exceed period time lawfully authorized work united_states tsa shall issue guidance transportation security inspectors review annually procedures airport operators air carriers applicants seeking unescorted access airport available airport operators air carriers information identifying suspicious fraudulent identification materials guidance shall require comprehensive review background checks employment authorization documents issued review procedures sec tsa shall revise certain regulations enhance eligibility requirements disqualifying criminal offenses individuals seeking having unescorted access airport propose disqualification individual convicted found guilty reason disqualifying criminal offense years date individual application individual incarcerated crime released years date tsa shall ensure existence development waiver process approving issuance credentials unescorted access individual found ineligible credentials circumstances permit conclusion individual poses terrorism risk risk aviation security denial credential tsa federal_bureau_of_investigation fbi shall implement fully fbi service recurrent criminal history vetting eligible tsa regulated populations individuals unescorted access airport fbi service notifies authorized agencies criminal limited cases civil activity individuals occurs initial processing retention criminal civil transactions tsa office_of_the_director national_intelligence shall ensure tsa receive automated real time access additional terrorist identities environment tide data terrorism related category codes improve tsa credential vetting program dhs shall authorize direct access airport operator verify program save automated system determine eligibility individuals seeking unescorted access airport sec tsa shall develop performance metrics measure effectiveness security airport sec tsa shall develop model best practices unescorted access security meeting specified criteria expand use tsa officers inspectors conduct physical inspections airport workers airport access point review airports implemented additional airport worker screening perimeter security tsa conduct pilot program test validate best practices comprehensive airport worker screening perimeter security sec tsa shall increase use red team covert testing access controls secure airport areas review continued appropriate updating consolidation revocation current security directive addressed regulated entity sec gao shall assess tsa progress implementing requirements bill effect aviation security sec member continue serve expiration term tsa appoints successor subtitle checkpoints future sec tsa shall request aviation_security_advisory_committee develop recommendations efficient effective passenger screening processes committee shall consider following configuration checkpoint technology innovation ways address vulnerabilities identified audits checkpoint operations ways prevent security breaches airports federal security screening provided best practices aviation security recommendations airport aircraft operators relevant advisory committees curb curb processes procedures sec tsa shall establish pilot program category airports reconfigure install security systems increase efficiency reduce vulnerabilities airport terminals particularly large open areas screening occurs sec tsa shall establish pilot program airports develop test prototypes screening security systems security checkpoint configurations expedite movement passengers deploying array technologies including passive active systems new types security baggage passenger screening systems new systems address passenger baggage sec tsa shall report congress pilot programs sec tsa shall carry pilot programs amounts appropriated enactment bill available obligation enactment obtained reimbursements airports pilot programs sec bill amends require visible intermodal prevention response teams conduct security operations sterile areas areas airports credentialed individuals unescorted access areas bill reauthorizes program including funds develop teams fy2016 fy2018 authorization program expired fy2011 sec bill amends homeland security act direct dhs ensure certain terrorism prevention grant funds state local tribal governments training exercises enhance preparedness response mass casualty active shooter incidents security events public locations including airports mass transit enhancing security preparedness secure areas airports surface transportation systems


Summary:
(This measure has not been amended since it was reported to the House on April 13, 2015. The summary of that version is repeated here.)

Prevent Targeting at the IRS Act

Amends the Internal Revenue Service Restructuring and Reform Act of 1998 to expand existing grounds for termination of the employment of an Internal Revenue Service employee to include performing, delaying, or failing to perform (or threatening to perform, delay, or fail to perform) any official action (including any audit) with respect to a taxpayer for purpose of extracting personal gain or benefit or for a political purpose.

measure amended reported house april summary version repeated prevent targeting irs act amends internal_revenue_service_restructuring reform_act expand existing grounds termination employment internal_revenue_service employee include performing delaying failing perform threatening perform delay fail perform official action including audit respect taxpayer purpose extracting personal gain benefit political purpose


Summary: Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a state, on behalf of a local government, to submit to the Secretary of the Treasury notice of a past-due, legally enforceable local tax obligation for offset against a taxpayer's tax refund. Defines "past-due, legally enforceable local tax obligation" as any debt which: (1) resulted from a judgment determining an amount of tax due to a local government; (2) is no longer subject to judicial review; or (3) resulted from a tax imposed by a local government which has been assessed but not collected, the time for redetermination of which has expired, and which has not been delinquent for more than 10 years.

amends internal revenue code allow state behalf local government submit secretary treasury notice past legally enforceable local tax obligation offset taxpayer tax refund defines past legally enforceable local tax obligation debt resulted judgment determining tax local government longer subject judicial review resulted tax imposed local government assessed collected time redetermination expired delinquent years


Summary:
IRS Notice for Organizations That Include Charities is Essential (IRS NOTICE) Act

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to require the Secretary of the Treasury to notify any tax-exempt organization, not later than 300 days after such an organization fails to file its annual tax return or other required information for two consecutive years, that: (1) the Internal Revenue Service has no record of its return or information for two consecutive years, and (2) a penalty will occur if the organization fails to file its return or information by the next filing deadline. Allows the reinstatement of the tax-exempt status of such an organization without the requirement of an application if: (1) the organization demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Secretary that it did not receive the notice required by this Act, and (2) it files an annual return or required information for the current year.

irs notice organizations include charities essential irs notice act amends internal revenue code require secretary treasury notify tax exempt organization later days organization fails file annual tax return required information consecutive years internal_revenue_service record return information consecutive years penalty occur organization fails file return information filing deadline allows reinstatement tax exempt status organization requirement application organization demonstrates satisfaction secretary receive notice required act files annual return required information current year


Summary: Permits any enrolled agent properly licensed to represent taxpayers before the Internal Revenue Service to use the credentials or designation of "enrolled agent," "EA," or "E.A."

permits enrolled agent properly licensed represent taxpayers internal_revenue_service use credentials designation enrolled agent


Summary:
(This measure has not been amended since it was reported to the House on April 13, 2015. The summary of that version is repeated here.)

Taxpayer Knowledge of IRS Investigations Act

(Sec. 2) Amends the Internal Revenue Code to authorize the Department of the Treasury to disclose to any person who provides information indicating a violation of internal revenue laws relating to unauthorized disclosure or inspection of tax information or to unlawful acts of revenue officers or agents: (1) whether an investigation based on such information has been initiated and is open or closed; (2) whether any such investigation substantiated a violation; and (3) whether any action has been taken against a violator, including a referral for prosecution.

Makes this Act applicable to disclosures made on or after its enactment date.

measure amended reported house april summary version repeated irs investigations act sec amends internal revenue code authorize department_of_the_treasury disclose person provides information indicating violation internal revenue laws relating unauthorized disclosure inspection tax information unlawful acts revenue officers agents investigation based information initiated open closed investigation substantiated violation action taken violator including referral prosecution makes act applicable disclosures enactment date


Summary:
(This measure has not been amended since it was reported to the House on April 13, 2015. The summary of that version is repeated here.)

Taxpayer Bill of Rights Act of 2015

(Sec. 2) Amends the Internal Revenue Code to require the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to ensure that IRS employees are familiar with and act in accordance with taxpayer rights, including the right to be informed, to quality service, to pay no more than the correct amount of tax, to challenge the position of the IRS and be heard, to an appeal in an independent forum, to finality, to privacy, to confidentiality, to retain representation, and to a fair and just tax system.

measure amended reported house april summary version repeated taxpayer bill rights act sec amends internal revenue code require internal_revenue_service irs ensure irs employees familiar act accordance taxpayer rights including right informed quality service pay correct tax challenge position irs heard appeal independent forum privacy confidentiality retain representation fair tax system


Summary:
Taxpayer Nondiscrimination and Protection Act of 2015

Amends the federal criminal code to establish penalties for misconduct against a taxpayer by an Internal Revenue Service employee during the performance of official duties, specifically including a violation of the protections and guarantees afforded under the First Amendment of the Constitution to political speech and political expression.

protection act amends federal criminal code establish penalties misconduct taxpayer internal_revenue_service employee performance official duties specifically including violation protections guarantees afforded amendment constitution political speech political expression


Summary:
(This measure has not been amended since it was reported to the House on April 13, 2015. The summary of that version is repeated here.)

IRS Email Transparency Act

Prohibits any officer or employee of the Internal Revenue Service from using a personal email account to conduct official business.

measure amended reported house april summary version repeated irs email transparency_act prohibits officer employee internal_revenue_service personal email account conduct official business


Summary:
(This measure has not been amended since it was reported to the House on April 18, 2016. The summary of that version is repeated here.)

No Hires for the Delinquent IRS Act

(Sec. 2) This bill prohibits any federal officer or employee from hiring any Internal Revenue Service (IRS) employees until the IRS submits to Congress either: (1) a written certification that the IRS does not employ any individual who has a seriously delinquent tax debt, or (2) a report detailing why the certification cannot be made and necessary remedial actions.

A seriously delinquent tax debt is an outstanding tax debt for which the IRS has filed a notice of lien in public records, excluding a tax debt: (1) that is being paid in a timely manner under an approved installment payment agreement or an offer-in-compromise, (2) for which a collection due process hearing has been requested or is pending, (3) for which a tax levy has been issued, or (4) with respect to which relief has been granted due to economic hardship.

If the IRS is unable to provide the required certification, it may submit to Congress a report that:

 states that the certification cannot be made, explains why the certification is not possible, outlines remedial actions required to provide a certification, and indicates the time required for the actions to be completed. (Sec. 3) No additional funds are authorized to carry out the requirements of this bill.

measure amended reported house april summary version repeated hires delinquent irs act sec bill prohibits federal officer employee hiring internal_revenue_service irs employees irs submits congress written certification irs employ individual seriously delinquent tax debt report detailing certification necessary remedial actions seriously delinquent tax debt outstanding tax debt irs filed notice lien public records excluding tax debt paid timely manner approved installment payment agreement offer compromise collection process hearing requested pending tax levy issued respect relief granted economic hardship irs unable provide required certification submit congress report states certification explains certification possible outlines remedial actions required provide certification indicates time required actions completed sec additional funds authorized carry requirements bill