Summary: Iran Counter-Proliferation Act of 2007 - Amends the Iran Sanctions Act of 1996 to expand the definitions of "petroleum resources" and "person." Expresses the sense of Congress concerning certain sanctions against Iran. Subjects Russia to specified nuclear energy cooperation prohibitions unless the President certifies to Congress that: (1) Russia has suspended all nuclear assistance and transfers of advanced conventional weapons and missiles to Iran; or (2) Iran has verifiably dismantled all nuclear enrichment-related and reprocessing-related programs. Subjects Iran to specified economic sanctions unless the President certifies to Congress that Iran has verifiably dismantled all nuclear enrichment-related and reprocessing-related programs.Subjects, with respect to prohibited transactions with Iran, a parent company to penalties for violations committed by certain subsidiaries outside the United States that would be subject to prohibitions if committed inside the United States or by a U.S. person. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to eliminate specified geological and geophysical expense amortization benefits if petroleum-related sanctions are imposed under the Iran Sanctions Act of 1996 on any member of an expanded affiliated group whose common parent is a foreign corporation. Revises the definition of "affiliated group." Directs the President to reduce annual U.S. contributions to the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (World Bank) based upon Bank amounts provided to entities and projects in Iran. Authorizes appropriations for the Department of the Treasury's Office of Terrorism and Financial Intelligence.Requires the Director of National Intelligence to submit to Congress an updated National Intelligence Estimate on Iran.Authorizes the President to: (1) carry out exchange programs with the people of Iran; and (2) make voluntary grant-based contributions to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for the establishment of an international nuclear fuel bank to maintain a reserve of low-enriched uranium in case of a disruption in the supply of reactor fuel by normal market mechanisms.Sets forth specified Iran investment-related reporting requirements.

amends iran sanctions act expand definitions petroleum resources person expresses sense congress concerning certain sanctions iran subjects russia specified nuclear energy cooperation prohibitions president certifies congress russia suspended nuclear assistance transfers advanced conventional weapons missiles iran iran verifiably dismantled nuclear enrichment related reprocessing related programs specified economic sanctions president certifies congress iran verifiably dismantled nuclear enrichment related reprocessing related programs subjects respect prohibited transactions iran parent company penalties violations committed certain subsidiaries outside united_states subject prohibitions committed inside united_states person amends internal revenue code eliminate specified geological geophysical expense amortization benefits petroleum related sanctions imposed iran sanctions act member expanded affiliated group common parent foreign corporation revises definition affiliated group directs president reduce annual contributions based bank amounts provided entities projects iran authorizes appropriations department_of_the_treasury requires director national_intelligence submit congress updated iran authorizes president carry exchange programs people iran voluntary grant based contributions international_atomic_energy_agency iaea establishment international nuclear fuel bank maintain reserve low enriched uranium case disruption supply reactor fuel normal market mechanisms sets forth specified iran investment related reporting requirements


Summary: Western Hemisphere Energy Compact - (Sec. 3) Defines specified terms. (Sec. 4) Directs the Secretary of State (Secretary) to establish the Western Hemisphere Energy Cooperation Forum which should seek to: (1) strengthen relationships between the United States and other countries of the Western Hemisphere through cooperation on energy issues; (2) enhance cooperation between major energy producers and major energy consumers in the Western Hemisphere, particularly among the governments of Brazil, Canada, Mexico, the United States, and Venezuela; and (3) promote renewable energy production and lessen oil import dependency. Directs the U.S. government to seek to implement: (1) an energy crisis initiative that will promote national and regional measures to respond to temporary energy supply disruptions; (2) an energy sustainability initiative to facilitate long-term supply security by fostering reliable supply sources of fuels, including energy from biomass; and (3) an energy for development initiative to promote energy access for underdeveloped areas through energy policy and infrastructure development. Directs the Secretary to seek Western Hemisphere governments' cooperation in establishing a Western Hemisphere Energy Industry Group, which shall increase public-private partnerships and foster private investment. Directs the U.S. government to explore the establishment of the Oil and Gas Working Group, which should strengthen oil- and natural gas-related dialogue among international oil companies, national oil companies, and civil society groups. (Sec. 5) Directs the Secretary to work with Brazil to: (1) coordinate efforts to promote the production and use of biofuels among all interested countries, giving preference to the countries in the Western Hemisphere that are among the poorest and most dependent on petroleum imports; (2) invite the European Union (EU), China, India, South Africa, Japan, and other interested countries to expand upon existing international efforts to create global biofuels markets and promote biofuels production and use in developing countries; (3) assess the feasibility of working with the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (World Bank) and relevant regional development banks regarding biofuels; and (4) develop a coordinated strategy regarding the construction and retrofitting of pipelines and terminals near major fuel distribution centers, coastal harbors, and railroads. Authorizes FY2009 appropriations. Directs: (1) the Secretary of Agriculture to work with Brazil in joint agricultural biofuel extension activities; and (2) the Secretary of Energy to establish a grant program to finance advanced biofuels research and collaboration between academic and research institutions in the United States and Brazil. Authorizes FY2009 appropriations. (Sec. 6) Directs the Secretary to work with each partner country (as defined by this Act) to conduct a study to determine the feasibility of increasing biofuel production and use. Provides that such study shall: (1) analyze energy policy; (2) assess demand and resources; (3) analyze technologies and resources; (4) assess food stock and environmental impacts; and (5) develop policy options. Authorizes FY2009 appropriations. (Sec. 7) Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to inform the managements of the international financial institutions and the public that it is U.S. policy that such institutions should encourage development of renewable and biomass energy sources. (Sec. 8) Directs the Secretary to work with Western Hemisphere governments and other countries to organize regional and hemispheric carbon trading mechanisms. Authorizes FY2009 appropriations. (Sec. 9) Directs the Secretary to seek to establish a Western Hemisphere energy crisis response mechanism. Directs the Secretary of Energy to conduct a study of natural gas supply vulnerabilities in the Western Hemisphere. Authorizes FY2009 appropriations. (Sec. 10) Directs the Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to seek to increase U.S. foreign assistance programming in renewable energy, including activities to reduce energy import dependence through biofuel use. Authorizes the Administrator to award grants to nongovernmental organizations for sustainable energy and job creation projects in at-risk nations, such as Haiti. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 11) Authorizes appropriations to the Department of State for renewable energy-related diplomatic activities in the Western Hemisphere. (Sec. 12) Directs the Secretary to report annually to Congress on activities under this Act.

sec defines specified terms sec directs secretary state secretary establish seek strengthen relationships united_states countries western_hemisphere cooperation energy issues enhance cooperation major energy producers major energy consumers western_hemisphere particularly governments brazil canada mexico united_states venezuela promote renewable energy production lessen oil import dependency directs government seek implement energy crisis initiative promote national regional measures respond temporary energy supply disruptions energy sustainability initiative facilitate long term supply security fostering reliable supply sources fuels including energy biomass energy development initiative promote energy access areas energy policy infrastructure development directs secretary seek western_hemisphere governments cooperation establishing shall increase public private partnerships foster private investment directs government explore establishment strengthen oil- natural gas related dialogue international oil companies national oil companies civil society groups sec directs secretary work brazil coordinate efforts promote production use biofuels interested countries giving preference countries western_hemisphere dependent petroleum imports invite european_union china india south_africa japan interested countries expand existing international efforts create global biofuels markets promote biofuels production use developing countries assess feasibility working relevant regional development banks biofuels develop coordinated strategy construction retrofitting pipelines terminals near major fuel distribution centers coastal harbors railroads authorizes fy2009 appropriations directs secretary agriculture work brazil joint agricultural biofuel extension activities secretary energy establish grant program finance advanced biofuels research collaboration academic research institutions united_states brazil authorizes fy2009 appropriations sec directs secretary work partner country defined act conduct study determine feasibility increasing biofuel production use provides study shall analyze energy policy assess demand resources analyze technologies resources assess food stock environmental impacts develop policy options authorizes fy2009 appropriations sec directs secretary treasury inform international financial institutions public policy institutions encourage development renewable biomass energy sources sec directs secretary work western_hemisphere governments countries organize regional carbon trading mechanisms authorizes fy2009 appropriations sec directs secretary seek establish western_hemisphere energy crisis response mechanism directs secretary energy conduct study natural gas supply vulnerabilities western_hemisphere authorizes fy2009 appropriations sec directs administrator united_states_agency international_development usaid seek increase foreign assistance programming renewable energy including activities reduce energy import dependence biofuel use authorizes administrator award grants nongovernmental organizations sustainable energy job creation projects risk nations haiti authorizes appropriations sec authorizes appropriations department_of_state renewable energy related diplomatic activities western_hemisphere sec directs secretary report annually congress activities act


Summary: Iran Sanctions Enabling Act of 2007 - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to: (1) publish biannually in the Federal Register a list of each person, whether within or outside of the United States, that has an investment of more than $20 million in the energy sector in Iran; and (2) maintain on the website of the Department of the Treasury the names of the persons on such list. States it is the policy of the United States to support the decision of state and local governments and educational institutions to divest from, and to prohibit the investment of assets they control in, persons included on the most recent list. Authorizes a state or local government to adopt and enforce measures to divest its assets from, or prohibit investment of assets in, persons included on the most recent list. Amends the Investment Company Act of 1940 to shield any registered investment company from civil, criminal, or administrative action based upon its divesting from, or avoiding investing in, securities issued by companies included on such most recent list. Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 to shield from treatment as breaching a fiduciary duty any person divesting plan assets from, or avoiding investing plan assets in, persons included on such most recent list. Expresses the sense of the Congress that the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board should: (1) initiate efforts to provide a terror-free international investment option among the funds of the Thrift Savings Fund; and (2) initiate similar efforts to provide a genocide-free international investment option.

iran sanctions enabling act directs secretary treasury publish biannually federal_register list person outside united_states investment million energy sector iran maintain website department_of_the_treasury names persons list states policy united_states support decision state local governments educational institutions divest prohibit investment assets control persons included recent list authorizes state local government adopt enforce measures divest assets prohibit investment assets persons included recent list amends investment company act shield registered investment company civil criminal administrative action based divesting avoiding investing securities issued companies included recent list amends employee retirement income security act shield treatment breaching fiduciary duty person divesting plan assets avoiding investing plan assets persons included recent list expresses sense congress federal_retirement_thrift_investment_board initiate efforts provide terror free international investment option funds thrift_savings_fund initiate similar efforts provide genocide free international investment option


Summary: Support for Democracy and Human Rights in Zimbabwe Act of 2007 - States that is U.S. policy to: (1) support the people of Zimbabwe in their efforts to promote democracy and respect for human rights in Zimbabwe; and (2) call on President Mugabe to restore democracy and human rights in Zimbabwe. Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) the United States welcomes the Southern African Development Community's announcement that the President of South Africa, Thabo Mbeki, will lead negotiations between the ruling and opposition parties in Zimbabwe; (2) preparations should be made to hold free elections in accordance with international standards; (3) cooperation among the United States, regional players in Africa, and the international community is an important component of a proactive strategy to support democratic rule and respect for human rights in Zimbabwe; (4) normalized relations with the government of Zimbabwe are desirable but until the government of Zimbabwe promotes democracy and the rule of law the United States will continue to isolate the government of Zimbabwe and expand financial and travel sanctions against those responsible for repressing Zimbabwe's people; and (5) the United States should use its influence in the U.N. Security Council to emphasize the threat to international peace posed by the government of Zimbabwe.Directs the Secretary of State to provide Congress with quarterly briefings on U.S. strategy for engagement with Zimbabwe. (Terminates such requirement three years after the date of the enactment of this Act.)Authorizes appropriations to support democracy and governance activities in Zimbabwe, including support for: (1) free and peaceful national elections; (2) creation of nonviolent political space; and (3) human rights programs.

support democracy human rights zimbabwe act 2007_-_states policy support people zimbabwe efforts promote democracy respect human rights zimbabwe president restore democracy human rights zimbabwe expresses sense congress united_states announcement president south_africa lead negotiations ruling opposition parties zimbabwe preparations hold free elections accordance international standards cooperation united_states regional africa international community important component proactive strategy support democratic rule respect human rights zimbabwe relations government zimbabwe desirable government zimbabwe promotes democracy rule law united_states continue isolate government zimbabwe expand financial travel sanctions responsible zimbabwe people united_states use influence emphasize threat international peace posed government zimbabwe directs secretary state provide congress quarterly briefings strategy engagement zimbabwe terminates requirement years date enactment appropriations support democracy governance activities zimbabwe including support free peaceful national elections creation nonviolent political space human rights programs


Summary: Refugee Crisis in Iraq Act - Directs the Secretary of State (Secretary) to establish processing facilities in Iraq and in countries in the region for eligible Iraqis to apply and interview for U.S. admission as refugees or as special immigrants. Includes among refugees of special humanitarian concern: (1) Iraqis who were employed by, or worked for or directly with the U.S. government in Iraq; (2) Iraqis who were employed in Iraq by a U.S.-based media or nongovernmental organization or an organization that has received a grant from, or entered into a cooperative agreement or contract with the U.S. government; (3) spouses, children, sons, daughters, siblings, and parents of Iraqis who worked for the U.S. government or who are special immigrants; and (4) Iraqis who are members of a religious or minority community and have close family members in the United States. Authorizes the Secretary to identify other priority groups in Iraq. Authorizes the Secretary of Homeland Security to provide special immigrant status to an otherwise admissible Iraqi national (and spouse and children) who was employed by, or worked for or directly with the U.S. government in Iraq for at least one year in or after 2003. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish in the U.S. embassy in Baghdad, Iraq, a Minister Counselor for Iraqi Refugees and Internally Displaced Persons; and (2) designate in the U.S. embassies in Cairo, Egypt; Amman, Jordan; Damascus, Syria; and Beirut, Lebanon a Minister Counselor to oversee U.S. resettlement of persons considered refugees of special humanitarian concern. Directs the Secretary, with respect to each country with a significant population of displaced Iraqis, including Iraq, Jordan, Egypt, Syria, Turkey, and Lebanon, to: (1) consult with other countries regarding resettlement of the most vulnerable members of such refugee populations; and (2) develop mechanisms in and provide assistance to countries with a significant population of displaced Iraqis to ensure their well-being and safety in their host environments. Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to permit a qualifying Iraqi applicant for asylum or withholding of removal whose claim was denied on the basis of changed country conditions to file for reopening of his or her claim.

refugee crisis iraq act directs secretary state secretary establish processing facilities iraq countries region eligible iraqis apply interview admission refugees special immigrants includes refugees special humanitarian concern iraqis employed worked directly government iraq iraqis employed iraq media nongovernmental organization organization received grant entered cooperative agreement contract government spouses children sons daughters siblings parents iraqis worked government special immigrants iraqis members religious minority community close family members united_states authorizes secretary identify priority groups iraq authorizes secretary homeland_security provide special immigrant status admissible iraqi national spouse children employed worked directly government iraq year directs secretary establish embassy baghdad iraq minister counselor iraqi refugees internally designate embassies egypt jordan syria lebanon minister counselor oversee resettlement persons considered refugees special humanitarian concern directs secretary respect country significant population displaced iraqis including iraq jordan egypt syria turkey lebanon consult countries resettlement vulnerable members refugee populations develop mechanisms provide assistance countries significant population displaced iraqis ensure safety host environments amends immigration nationality act permit qualifying iraqi applicant asylum withholding removal claim denied basis changed country conditions file reopening claim


Summary: Promoting American Agricultural and Medical Exports to Cuba Act of 2007 - Prohibits the President from restricting direct transfers from a Cuban depository institution to a U.S. depository institution in payment for a product authorized for sale under the Trade Sanctions Reform and Export Enhancement Act of 2000. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to provide information and technical assistance to U.S. agricultural producers, cooperative organizations, or state agencies to promote U.S. agricultural exports products to Cuba. Expresses the sense of Congress that temporary entry visas should be issued to Cuban nationals to facilitate purchase of U.S. agricultural products. Amends the Department of Commerce and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1999 to repeal the prohibition on enforcement of rights to certain U.S. intellectual properties and such properties' transfer. Prohibits the President from regulating or prohibiting travel to or from Cuba by U.S. citizens or legal residents, or any of the transactions ordinarily incident to such travel, and any regulation restricting or prohibiting such travel shall have no effect, relating to: (1) accompanied personal baggage; (2) payment of living expenses and the acquisition of personal-use goods or services; (3) travel arrangements; (4) nonscheduled air, sea, or land voyage transactions, (such provision does not permit the carriage of articles other than accompanied baggage into Cuba or the United States); and (5) normal banking transactions. States that such provision shall not apply in time of war or armed hostilities between the United States and Cuba, or of imminent danger to the public health or the physical safety of U.S. travelers. Amends the Democracy Act of 1992 to repeal the requirement for onsite verification of certain medical exports to Cuba. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) increase the airport ticket tax for transportation between the United States and Cuba by $1; and (2) establish in the Treasury the Agricultural Export Promotion Trust Fund.

cuba_act prohibits president restricting direct transfers cuban depository institution depository institution payment product authorized sale trade sanctions reform export enhancement act directs secretary agriculture provide information technical assistance agricultural producers cooperative organizations state agencies promote agricultural exports products cuba expresses sense congress temporary entry visas issued cuban nationals facilitate purchase agricultural products amends department_of_commerce_and_related_agencies_appropriations_act repeal prohibition enforcement rights certain intellectual properties properties transfer prohibits president regulating prohibiting travel cuba citizens legal residents transactions ordinarily incident travel regulation restricting prohibiting travel shall effect relating accompanied personal baggage payment living expenses acquisition personal use goods services travel arrangements nonscheduled air sea land voyage transactions provision permit carriage articles accompanied baggage cuba united_states normal banking transactions states provision shall apply time war armed hostilities united_states cuba imminent danger public health physical safety travelers amends democracy act repeal requirement onsite verification certain medical exports cuba amends internal revenue code increase airport ticket tax transportation united_states cuba establish treasury


Summary: United States-Republic of Korea Defense Cooperation Improvement Act of 2007 - Amends the Arms Export Control Act to include the Republic of Korea among those countries given preferential consideration with respect to certain: (1) arms export presidential certification and legislative review requirements; and (2) military training reporting requirements.

defense cooperation improvement act amends arms export control act include republic_of_korea countries given preferential consideration respect certain arms export presidential certification legislative review requirements military training reporting requirements


Summary: Expresses the sense of the Senate on the need for a comprehensive diplomatic offensive to help broker national reconciliation efforts in Iraq and lay the foundation for the eventual redeployment of U.S. combat forces.

expresses sense senate need comprehensive diplomatic offensive help broker national reconciliation efforts iraq lay foundation eventual redeployment combat forces


Summary: Saffron Revolution Support Act of 2007 - States that it is U.S. policy to: (1) support the democratic aspirations of Burma's people; (2) condemn the repression carried out by the State Peace and Development Council (SPDC); and (3) hold accountable individuals responsible for the repression of peaceful political activity in Burma. Directs the President to submit to the appropriate congressional committees a list of: (1) SPDC officials who play or have played a substantial role in political repression in Burma or in the commission of human rights abuses; and (2) other Burmese SPDC supporters. Subjects persons so identified to U.S. entry prohibition and financial sanctions (blocked property, financial transaction prohibitions, and banking sanctions). Terminates such prohibitions upon a presidential certification to the committees that the SPDC has: (1) released all political prisoners, including Aung San Suu Kyi and other members of the National League for Democracy; (2) entered into a dialogue with democratic forces led by the National League for Democracy and the ethnic minorities of Burma on transitioning to democratic government; and (3) allowed humanitarian access to populations affected by armed conflict in all regions of Burma. Amends the the Burmese Freedom and Democracy Act of 2003 to prohibit the importation into the United States of Burmese gems, teak, or other hardwood timber. Prohibits any U.S. person (as defined by this Act) from investing in Burma. Authorizes: (1) the Secretary of State to award grants to nongovernmental organizations, universities, and other organizations to establish an Internet database of SPDC human rights abuses; and (2) the President to assist nonviolent democracy activists in their efforts to promote freedom, democracy, and human rights in Burma. Directs the Secretary to report to the appropriate committees respecting countries that provide military aid to Burma.

2007_-_states policy support democratic aspirations burma people repression carried hold accountable individuals responsible repression peaceful political activity burma directs president submit appropriate congressional committees list officials play played substantial role political repression burma commission human rights abuses burmese supporters subjects persons identified entry prohibition financial sanctions blocked property financial transaction prohibitions banking sanctions terminates prohibitions presidential certification committees released political prisoners including san members entered dialogue democratic forces led ethnic minorities burma transitioning democratic government allowed humanitarian access populations affected armed conflict regions burma amends burmese freedom democracy act prohibit importation united_states burmese timber prohibits person defined act investing burma authorizes secretary state award grants nongovernmental organizations universities organizations establish internet database human rights abuses president assist nonviolent democracy activists efforts promote freedom democracy human rights burma directs secretary report appropriate committees respecting countries provide military aid burma


Summary: Burma Democracy Promotion Act of 2007 - States that it is U.S. policy to: (1) condemn the repression carried out by the State Peace and Development Council (SPDC); (2) support a peaceful transition to constitutional democracy in Burma; and (3) hold accountable individuals responsible for the repression of peaceful political activity in Burma. Directs the President to submit to the appropriate congressional committees a list of: (1) SPDC officials who play or have played a substantial role in political repression in Burma or in the commission of human rights abuses; and (2) other Burmese SPDC supporters. Subjects persons so identified to U.S. entry prohibition and financial sanctions (blocked property, financial transaction prohibitions, and banking sanctions). Exempts medical and humanitarian assistance from such restrictions. Authorizes additional waivers for diplomatic and travel purposes. Terminates such prohibitions upon a presidential certification to the committees that the SPDC has: (1) released all political prisoners, including Aung San Suu Kyi and other members of the National League for Democracy; (2) entered into a dialogue with democratic forces led by the National League for Democracy and the ethnic minorities of Burma on transitioning to democratic government; and (3) allowed humanitarian access to populations affected by armed conflict in all regions of Burma. Amends the the Burmese Freedom and Democracy Act of 2003 to prohibit the importation into the United States of Burmese gems, teak, or other hardwood timber. Directs the President to appoint a Special Representative and Policy Coordinator for Burma. Authorizes: (1) the Secretary of the Treasury to issue multi-year licenses for humanitarian or religious activities in Burma; and (2) the President to assist nonviolent democracy activists in their efforts to promote freedom, democracy, and human rights in Burma. Directs the Secretary of State to report to the appropriate committees respecting countries that provide military aid to Burma. Expresses the sense of Congress that the United States should lead U.N. Security Council efforts to impose an international arms embargo on Burma.

burma democracy promotion act 2007_-_states policy repression carried support peaceful transition constitutional democracy burma hold accountable individuals responsible repression peaceful political activity burma directs president submit appropriate congressional committees list officials play played substantial role political repression burma commission human rights abuses burmese supporters subjects persons identified entry prohibition financial sanctions blocked property financial transaction prohibitions banking sanctions exempts medical humanitarian assistance restrictions authorizes additional waivers diplomatic travel purposes terminates prohibitions presidential certification committees released political prisoners including san members entered dialogue democratic forces led ethnic minorities burma transitioning democratic government allowed humanitarian access populations affected armed conflict regions burma amends burmese freedom democracy act prohibit importation united_states burmese timber directs president appoint special representative policy coordinator burma authorizes secretary treasury issue multi year licenses humanitarian religious activities burma president assist nonviolent democracy activists efforts promote freedom democracy human rights burma directs secretary state report appropriate committees respecting countries provide military aid burma expresses sense congress united_states lead efforts impose international arms embargo burma


Summary: Sudan Accountability and Divestment Act of 2007 - (Sec. 2) Defines specified terms. (Sec. 3) Expresses the sense of Congress that the U.S. government should support a state or local government decision to divest from or prohibit the investment of state or local assets in a person determined to pose a financial or reputational risk. Authorizes a state or local government to divest state or local assets or prohibit investment of state or local assets in persons that are conducting or have direct investments in business operations in Sudan that include power production activities, mineral extraction activities, oil-related activities, or the production of military equipment. Expresses the sense of Congress that a state or local government should not adopt any such measure without verification that the person conducts or has direct investments in such business operations. Excludes from such business operations those operations that: (1) are conducted under contract directly and exclusively with the regional government of southern Sudan; (2) are conducted under a license from the Office of Foreign Assets Control or are exempted under federal law from such license requirement; (3) provide goods or services to marginalized populations of Sudan; (4) provide goods or services to an internationally recognized peacekeeping force or humanitarian organization; (5) provide goods or services to promote health or education; (6) are conducted by a person that has also undertaken significant humanitarian efforts; or (7) have been voluntarily suspended. Requires that a state or local government notify the Department of Justice respecting a divestiture decision. States that a state or local divestiture action under this Act is not preempted by any federal law or regulation. (Sec. 4) Amends the Investment Company Act of 1940 to prohibit a person (including the federal government or a state or local government) from bringing a civil, criminal, or administrative action against any registered investment company, or any employee, officer, director, or investment adviser of such company, based solely upon the investment company divesting from or avoiding investing in securities issued by persons that conduct or have investments in certain business operations in Sudan. States that such prohibition shall not apply to: (1) actions for breaches of fiduciary duties; and (2) a registered investment company, or any employee, officer, director, or investment adviser of such company unless the company makes disclosures in accordance Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) regulations required by this Act. (Sec. 5) Expresses the sense of Congress that a fiduciary of an employee benefit plan (as defined by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA)) may divest plan assets from or avoid investing plan assets in any person conducting certain business operations in Sudan. (Sec. 6) Requires that companies seeking U.S. government contracts certify that they are not conducting certain business operations in Sudan. Sets forth the following federal remedies for a false certification: (1) terminating the contract; (2) suspending a contractor's eligibility for future contractors; and (3) debarring a company from government contracts for up to three years. Authorizes the President to waive such requirement if in the national interest. (Sec. 7) Expresses the sense of Congress that other countries should adopt measures similar to those contained in this Act. (Sec. 8) Expresses the sense of Congress that the President should: (1) work with the international community to facilitate the deployment of a peacekeeping force to Sudan; and (2) call for a vote on a U.N. Security Council resolution imposing multilateral sanctions on Sudan in response to the ongoing genocide in Darfur. (Sec. 9) Expresses the sense of Congress that this Act does not conflict with current U.S. international obligations, or article VI, clause 2 (supremacy clause) of the Constitution. (Sec. 10) Directs the Secretaries of State and the Treasury report on the efficacy of current sanctions on Sudan. (Sec. 11) Amends the U.S. Troop Readiness, Veterans' Care, Katrina Recovery, and Iraq Accountability Appropriations Act, 2007 to repeal a specified reporting requirement by the Secretary of the Treasury. (Sec. 12) Terminates sections 3, 4, 5, 6, and 10 of this Act 30 days after the President certifies to Congress that Sudan has honored its commitments to: (1) abide by Security Council Resolution 1769; (2) cease attacks on civilians; (3) demobilize and demilitarize the Janjaweed and associated militias; (4) grant free access for delivery of humanitarian assistance; and (5) allow for the safe and voluntary return of refugees and internally displaced persons.

divestment_act sec defines specified terms sec expresses sense congress government support state local government decision divest prohibit investment state local assets person determined pose financial reputational risk authorizes state local government divest state local assets prohibit investment state local assets persons conducting direct investments business operations sudan include power production activities mineral extraction activities oil related activities production military equipment expresses sense congress state local government adopt measure verification person conducts direct investments business operations excludes business operations operations conducted contract directly exclusively regional government southern sudan conducted license office_of_foreign_assets_control exempted federal law license requirement provide goods services marginalized populations sudan provide goods services internationally recognized peacekeeping force humanitarian organization provide goods services promote health education conducted person undertaken significant humanitarian efforts voluntarily suspended requires state local government notify department_of_justice respecting divestiture decision states state local divestiture action act preempted federal law regulation sec amends investment company act prohibit person including federal government state local government bringing civil criminal administrative action registered investment company employee officer director investment adviser company based solely investment company divesting avoiding investing securities issued persons conduct investments certain business operations sudan states prohibition shall apply actions breaches fiduciary duties registered investment company employee officer director investment adviser company company makes disclosures accordance securities_and_exchange_commission sec regulations required act sec expresses sense congress fiduciary employee benefit plan defined employee retirement income security act erisa divest plan assets avoid investing plan assets person conducting certain business operations sudan sec requires companies seeking government contracts certify conducting certain business operations sudan sets forth following federal remedies false certification terminating contract suspending contractor eligibility future contractors company government contracts years authorizes president waive requirement national interest sec expresses sense congress countries adopt measures similar contained act sec expresses sense congress president work international community facilitate deployment peacekeeping force sudan vote resolution imposing multilateral sanctions sudan response ongoing genocide darfur sec expresses sense congress act conflict current international obligations article clause clause constitution sec directs secretaries state treasury report efficacy current sanctions sudan sec amends katrina_recovery iraq_accountability_appropriations_act repeal specified reporting requirement secretary treasury sec terminates sections act days president certifies congress sudan honored commitments abide cease attacks civilians associated militias grant free access delivery humanitarian assistance allow safe voluntary return refugees internally displaced persons


Summary: Congressional Oversight of Iraq Agreements Act of 2007 - Directs the Legal Advisor to the Secretary of State to provide Congress with the justification (including the constitutional authority) for the President's decision to deny Congress its constitutionally protected role by concluding an agreement on the future of the security relationship between the United States and Iraq as an executive agreement. Expresses the sense of Congress that any bilateral agreement between the United States and Iraq involving "commitments or risks affecting the nation as a whole," including a status of forces agreement (SOFA), that is not a treaty approved by two-thirds of the Senate under Article II of the Constitution or authorized by legislation does not have the force of law. Prohibits the use of funds to carry out such an agreement.

iraq agreements act directs legal advisor secretary state provide congress justification including constitutional authority president decision deny congress constitutionally protected role concluding agreement future security relationship united_states iraq executive agreement expresses sense congress bilateral agreement united_states iraq involving commitments risks affecting nation including status forces agreement treaty approved thirds senate article constitution authorized legislation force law prohibits use funds carry agreement


Summary: Syria Accountability and Liberation Act - States that U.S. sanctions, controls, and regulations relating to Syria shall remain in effect until the President certifies that Syria has ceased support for terrorism, has dismantled biological, chemical, or nuclear weapons programs and has committed to combat their proliferation, respects the boundaries and sovereignty of all neighboring countries, and upholds human rights and civil liberties. Imposes specified trade, assistance, and military sanctions, as appropriate, on persons or countries that transfer goods or technology so as to contribute to Syria's biological, chemical, nuclear, or advanced conventional weapons programs. Imposes specified sanctions aimed at Syria's energy sector. Sets forth diplomatic measures intended to isolate the government of Syria. Directs the President to provide assistance to support a democratic transition in Syria. Authorizes appropriations.

syria accountability liberation act states sanctions controls regulations relating syria shall remain effect president certifies syria ceased support terrorism dismantled biological chemical nuclear weapons programs committed combat proliferation respects boundaries sovereignty neighboring countries upholds human rights civil liberties imposes specified trade assistance military sanctions appropriate persons countries transfer goods technology contribute syria biological chemical nuclear advanced conventional weapons programs imposes specified sanctions aimed syria energy sector sets forth diplomatic measures intended isolate government syria directs president provide assistance support democratic transition syria authorizes appropriations


Summary: OPEC Accountability Act - Requires the President to initiate consultations with Indonesia, Kuwait, Nigeria, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Venezuela, Ecuador, and Saudi Arabia to seek their elimination of any action that: (1) limits the production or distribution of oil, natural gas, or any other petroleum product; (2) sets or maintains the price of any such product; or (3) otherwise is an action in restraint of trade with respect to such products when such action constitutes an act, policy, or practice that is unjustifiable and burdens and restricts U.S. commerce. Requires the U.S. Trade Representative to: (1) initiate World Trade Organization (WTO) dispute proceedings if the consultation is not successful with respect to any such country; and (2) take appropriate action regarding the country under U.S. trade remedy laws.

accountability act requires president initiate consultations indonesia kuwait nigeria qatar united_arab_emirates venezuela saudi_arabia seek elimination action limits production distribution oil natural gas petroleum product sets maintains price product action restraint trade respect products action constitutes act policy practice burdens restricts commerce requires initiate world_trade_organization wto dispute proceedings consultation successful respect country appropriate action country trade remedy laws


Summary: Iran Sanctions Act of 2008 - (Sec. 3) Expresses the sense of Congress concerning a variety of existing and proposed sanctions against Iran. (Sec. 4) States that nothing in this Act shall be construed as authorizing the President to use military force against Iran. (Sec. 5) Defines specified terms. (Sec. 6) Amends the Iran Sanctions Act of 1996 to expand the definition of "person" to include: (1) a financial institution, insurer, underwriter, guarantor, or any other business organization, including any foreign subsidiary, parent, or affiliate of one of the foregoing; and (2) an export credit agency that is a governmental entity operating as a business enterprise. (Sec. 7) Subjects Russia to specified nuclear energy cooperation prohibitions (affecting agreements, export licenses, and transfers of material, components, or facilities) unless the President certifies to Congress that: (1) Russia has suspended all nuclear assistance and transfers of advanced conventional weapons and missiles to Iran; or (2) Iran has verifiably dismantled all nuclear enrichment-related and reprocessing-related programs. (Sec. 8) Subjects Iran to the following economic sanctions: (1) import prohibitions into the United States; (2) export prohibitions from the United States, with exceptions for agricultural commodities, medicine and medical devices, humanitarian assistance articles, and information materials (with certain prohibited materials). Prohibits the U.S. Trade Representative or any other federal official from taking any action that would extend trade preferences to, or lead to the World Trade Organization (WTO) accession of, Iran. Directs the President to: (1) freeze the assets of Iranian diplomats and representatives of other Iranian government and military or quasi-governmental institutions who are subject to sanctions under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act or other provision of law; (2) freeze the assets of family members or associates of sanctioned Iranian persons who receive transfers of assets or property from such sanctioned persons; and (3) report the names of sanctioned persons to the appropriate congressional committees. Prohibits the head of a U.S. executive agency from entering into a procurement contract with a person who is sanctioned under the Iran Sanctions Act of 1996. (Sec. 9) Subjects, with respect to prohibited transactions with Iran, a parent company to penalties for violations committed by certain subsidiaries outside the United States that would be subject to prohibitions if committed inside the United States or by a U.S. person if the parent company knowingly participated in the transaction. Imposes penalties only for violations that are commenced: (1) on or after the date of enactment of this Act; or (2) prior to enactment of this Act and continuing after such date. Excepts U.S. parent companies from liability if the parent divests or terminates its business with the foreign subsidiary not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act. Defines specified terms. (Sec. 10) Requires that the President initiate investigations to determine whether companies are investing in Iran's petroleum or natural gas sectors in violation of the Act. Authorizes the President to extend such determination period. (Sec. 11) Amends the Internal Revenue Code to require that specified geological and geophysical amortization benefits be taken over a longer time period if petroleum-related sanctions for investing in Iran are imposed on a taxpayer. Revises the definition of "expanded affiliated group." (Sec. 12) Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to report every 180 days to the appropriate congressional committees concerning International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (World Bank) loans to Iran. (Sec. 13) Authorizes FY2009-FY2011 appropriations for the Department of the Treasury's: (1) Office of Terrorism and Financial Intelligence; and (2) Financial Crimes Enforcement Network. (Sec. 14) Expresses the sense of Congress that the United States should seek to enhance its friendship with the people of Iran, particularly by identifying young Iranians to come to the United States under exchange programs. Authorizes the President to carry out exchange programs with the people of Iran. Authorizes FY2009 appropriations. Expresses the sense of Congress that the President should determine the appropriateness of making voluntary contributions to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for an international nuclear fuel bank to maintain a reserve of low-enriched uranium for the production of reactor fuel to be provided to eligible countries in the case of a disruption in the supply of reactor fuel by normal market mechanisms. (Sec. 15) Expresses the sense of Congress that the Broadcasting Board of Governors should devote a greater proportion of Radio Farda service to programs offering news and analysis to further the open communication of information and ideas to Iran. (Sec. 16) States that is U.S. policy to support the establishment of an international regime for the assured supply of nuclear fuel for peaceful means under a multilateral authority such as the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Expresses the sense of Congress respecting: (1) an international regime for the assured supply of nuclear fuel; and (2) contributions to IAEA to establish an international nuclear fuel bank. Authorizes FY2009 appropriations. (Sec. 17) Sets forth specified Iran investment-related reporting requirements by the President and the Secretary. (Sec. 18) Authorizes the President to waive sanctions under sections 8, 9, or 12 of this Act if: (1) determined to be in the national interest; and (2) upon reporting to the appropriate congressional committees. (Sec. 19) Provides that except as provided in section 7 the provisions of this Act shall terminate on the earlier of: (1) the date on which the President determines and certifies to the appropriate congressional committees that Iran has completely, verifiably, and irreversibly dismantled all uranium enrichment-related and reprocessing-related programs; or (2) the date that is five years after the date of enactment of this Act.

iran sanctions act sec expresses sense congress concerning variety existing proposed sanctions iran sec states act shall construed authorizing president use military force iran sec defines specified terms sec amends iran sanctions act expand definition person include financial institution insurer underwriter guarantor business organization including foreign subsidiary parent affiliate foregoing export credit agency governmental entity operating business enterprise sec subjects russia specified nuclear energy cooperation prohibitions affecting agreements export licenses transfers material components facilities president certifies congress russia suspended nuclear assistance transfers advanced conventional weapons missiles iran iran verifiably dismantled nuclear enrichment related reprocessing related programs sec subjects iran following economic sanctions import prohibitions united_states export prohibitions united_states exceptions agricultural commodities medicine medical devices humanitarian assistance articles information materials certain prohibited materials prohibits federal official taking action extend trade preferences lead world_trade_organization wto accession iran directs president freeze assets iranian diplomats representatives iranian government military quasi governmental institutions subject sanctions international_emergency_economic_powers_act provision law freeze assets family members associates sanctioned iranian persons receive transfers assets property sanctioned persons report names sanctioned persons appropriate congressional committees prohibits head executive agency entering procurement contract person sanctioned iran sanctions act sec subjects respect prohibited transactions iran parent company penalties violations committed certain subsidiaries outside united_states subject prohibitions committed inside united_states person parent company knowingly participated transaction imposes penalties violations commenced date enactment act prior enactment act continuing date excepts parent companies liability parent divests terminates business foreign subsidiary later days date enactment act defines specified terms sec requires president initiate investigations determine companies investing iran petroleum natural gas sectors violation act authorizes president extend determination period sec amends internal revenue code require specified geological geophysical amortization benefits taken longer time period petroleum related sanctions investing iran imposed taxpayer revises definition expanded affiliated group sec directs secretary treasury report days appropriate congressional committees concerning loans iran sec authorizes fy2009 fy2011 appropriations department_of_the_treasury office terrorism financial intelligence financial_crimes_enforcement_network sec expresses sense congress united_states seek enhance friendship people iran particularly identifying young come united_states exchange programs authorizes president carry exchange programs people iran authorizes fy2009 appropriations expresses sense congress president determine appropriateness making voluntary contributions international_atomic_energy_agency iaea international nuclear fuel bank maintain reserve low enriched uranium production reactor fuel provided eligible countries case disruption supply reactor fuel normal market mechanisms sec expresses sense congress broadcasting_board_of_governors greater proportion service programs offering news analysis open communication information ideas iran sec states policy support establishment international regime assured supply nuclear fuel peaceful means multilateral authority international_atomic_energy_agency iaea expresses sense congress respecting international regime assured supply nuclear fuel contributions iaea establish international nuclear fuel bank authorizes fy2009 appropriations sec sets forth specified iran investment related reporting requirements president secretary sec authorizes president waive sanctions sections act determined national interest reporting appropriate congressional committees sec provides provided section provisions act shall terminate earlier date president determines certifies appropriate congressional committees iran completely verifiably dismantled uranium enrichment related reprocessing related programs date years date enactment act


Summary: Public Health Emergency Response Act of 2008 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to allow the Secretary of Health and Human Services to activate the coverage of short-term emergency health care services if the Secretary determines that there is a public health emergency. Sets forth factors for the Secretary to consider, including the degree to which the emergency is likely to overwhelm health care providers in the region. Requires the Secretary to establish a medical monitoring program for monitoring and reporting on the health care needs of the affected population over time. Limits eligibility for coverage of emergency health care services to: (1) uninsured or underinsured emergency victims who need health care services due to injuries or disease resulting from the public health emergency; or (2) uninsured individuals residing in the affected area whose ability to access care or medicine is disrupted as a result of the emergency. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish a streamlined process for determining eligibility for emergency health care services; (2) report to Congress on the number and adequacy of volunteers enrolled in the Emergency System for Advance Registration of Volunteer Health Professionals (ESAR-VHP) who will be available to each state in the event of a public health emergency; and (3) conduct an outreach and public education campaign to inform health care providers and the general public about the availability of emergency health care coverage during the period of the emergency.

public health emergency response act amends public_health_service_act allow secretary health_and_human_services activate coverage short term emergency health care services secretary determines public health emergency sets forth factors secretary consider including degree emergency likely health care providers region requires secretary establish medical monitoring program monitoring reporting health care needs affected population time limits eligibility coverage emergency health care services uninsured emergency victims need health care services injuries disease resulting public health emergency uninsured individuals residing affected area ability access care medicine disrupted result emergency directs secretary establish streamlined process determining eligibility emergency health care services report congress number adequacy volunteers enrolled emergency system advance registration volunteer health professionals available state event public health emergency conduct outreach public education campaign inform health care providers general public availability emergency health care coverage period emergency


Summary: Rescinds any amounts that remain unexpended in: (1) the Iraq Relief and Reconstruction Fund; (2) the Iraq Security Forces Fund; and (3) the Economic Support Fund authorized under chapter 4 of part II of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 that are available for Iraq.

rescinds amounts remain unexpended iraq_security_forces_fund economic_support_fund authorized chapter foreign assistance act available iraq


Summary: Encore Service Act of 2008 - Amends the National and Community Service Act of 1990 to make eligible for assistance under the National Service Trust program Encore Service programs that engage individuals age 50 or older in national service addressing specific community needs. Gives Encore Service participants age 50 or older five options for their term of service, ranging from full-time to minimum time. Makes such participants eligible for national service educational awards, which they may transfer to others for use within 20 years. Expresses the sense of Congress that, by 2018, 25% of National Service Trust program participants should be age 50 or older. Requires the Corporation for National and Community Service to identify and address the barriers to program participation by such individuals. Establishes Encore Fellowship programs providing Encore Fellowships to professionals age 50 or older who serve as full-time volunteers for nine months to one year with public or nonprofit organizations that address unmet human, educational, environmental, or public safety needs. Makes such Fellows ineligible for national service educational awards. Creates Silver Scholarship programs providing Silver Scholarships to individuals who, over a one-year period, complete: (1) at least 500 hours of volunteer service after attaining age 55; or (2) between 250 and 500 hours of such service and present compelling personal experiences. Allows such individuals to transfer their scholarships to others for use within 20 years. Directs the Corporation to specify the services that qualify volunteers for scholarships, including: (1) tutoring or mentoring in educational settings; and (2) assisting persons with special needs. Amends the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973 to allow anyone age 55 or older (currently, 60 or older) whose income does not exceed 200% (currently, 125%) of the poverty level to volunteer under the Foster Grandparent and Senior Companion programs that provide supportive services to persons with exceptional needs. Reauthorizes appropriations for the National Senior Volunteer Corps, including the Retired and Senior Volunteer, Foster Grandparent, and Senior Companion programs.

encore service act amends national_and_community_service_act eligible assistance programs engage individuals age older national service addressing specific community needs participants age older options term service ranging time minimum time makes participants eligible national service educational awards transfer use years expresses sense congress national_service_trust program participants age older requires corporation national community service identify address barriers program participation individuals fellowship programs providing encore_fellowships professionals age older serve time volunteers months year public nonprofit organizations address unmet human educational environmental public safety needs makes fellows ineligible national service educational awards programs providing individuals year period complete hours volunteer service attaining age hours service present compelling personal experiences allows individuals transfer scholarships use years directs corporation specify services qualify volunteers scholarships including tutoring mentoring educational settings assisting persons special needs amends domestic_volunteer_service_act allow age older currently older income exceed currently poverty level volunteer programs provide supportive services persons exceptional needs reauthorizes appropriations national senior volunteer_corps including retired senior volunteer foster_grandparent senior companion programs


Summary: Iraqi Refugee and Internally Displaced Persons Humanitarian Assistance, Resettlement, and Security Act of 2008 - Expresses the sense of Congress concerning Iraqi refugees and internally displaced persons.Directs the Secretary of State, with respect to vulnerable populations in Iraq and with respect to countries containing a significant population of Iraqi refugees (including Jordan, Syria, Turkey, Lebanon, Egypt, and Iran), to provide such countries or appropriate international organizations and nongovernmental organizations with specified humanitarian assistance.Directs the Secretary to make every effort to ensure that the humanitarian needs of vulnerable populations in Iraq and Iraqi refugees in neighboring countries are met. Authorizes appropriations to Jordan for humanitarian assistance to Iraqi refugees and to provide the necessary infrastructure to support both the needs of Iraqi refugees and the Jordanian people. Requires that related fund monitoring mechanisms be established.Increases refugee admission limitations for the purpose of admitting Iraqi citizens or nationals who became refugees on or after March 19, 2003.Directs the Secretary, by a specified date and subject to the availability of appropriations, to have increased by 100% the number of federal personnel in Iraq and in other appropriate countries who are conducting security reviews of Iraqi refugee applicants. Directs the Secretary of State to work with the international community to provide: (1) financial assistance to vulnerable populations in Iraq and to Iraqi refugees in neighboring countries; and (2) technical and financial assistance to international organizations in order to process refugees.Defines "vulnerable populations in Iraq" to include internally displaced persons.

internally displaced persons humanitarian assistance resettlement security act expresses sense congress concerning iraqi refugees internally displaced persons directs secretary state respect vulnerable populations iraq respect countries containing significant population iraqi refugees including jordan syria turkey lebanon egypt iran provide countries appropriate international organizations nongovernmental organizations specified humanitarian assistance directs secretary effort ensure humanitarian needs vulnerable populations iraq iraqi refugees neighboring countries met authorizes appropriations jordan humanitarian assistance iraqi refugees provide necessary infrastructure support needs iraqi refugees people requires related fund monitoring mechanisms established increases refugee admission limitations purpose admitting iraqi citizens nationals refugees march secretary specified date subject availability appropriations increased number federal personnel iraq appropriate countries conducting security reviews iraqi refugee applicants directs secretary state work international community provide financial assistance vulnerable populations iraq iraqi refugees neighboring countries technical financial assistance international organizations order process refugees defines vulnerable populations iraq include internally displaced persons


Summary: Establishes the Commission on the Conflict between Russia and Georgia, which shall: (1) examine the causes of the conflict between Russia and Georgia that began in August 2008; and (2) make U.S. policy recommendations with respect to Russia, Georgia, and other countries in the region.Terminates the Commission 60 days after submission of a final report required under this Act.

russia georgia shall examine causes conflict russia georgia began august policy recommendations respect russia georgia countries region terminates commission days submission final report required act


Summary: Vietnam Human Rights Act of 2008 - Prohibits the federal government from providing the government of Vietnam with nonhumanitarian development, trade, economic, and security assistance during any fiscal year that exceeds the amount of such assistance provided during FY2008, unless such increases are matched or exceeded by additional funding for programs focusing on human rights and democracy promotion. Authorizes the President to waive such requirements if increased U.S. nonhumanitarian assistance would promote the purposes of this Act or it is otherwise in the U.S. national interest. Prohibits the President from providing certain duty-free treatment for Vietnam until the President certifies to Congress that the government of Vietnam protects freedom of association and does not engage in violations of workers' rights. Authorizes the President to provide U.S. assistance through appropriate nongovernmental organizations and the Human Rights Defenders Fund for the support of individuals and organizations to promote human rights in Vietnam. Expresses the sense of Congress regarding diplomacy with the government of Vietnam. Declares it is U.S. policy: (1) to take such measures as are necessary to overcome the jamming of Radio Free Asia by the government of Vietnam; and (2) that educational and cultural exchange programs with Vietnam should promote progress toward freedom and democracy. Declares it is U.S. policy to offer refugee resettlement to Vietnam nationals (including members of the Montagnard ethnic minority groups) who were eligible for the Humanitarian Resettlement program, the Orderly Departure program, the Resettlement Opportunities for Vietnamese Returnees program, the Amerasian Homecoming Act of 1988, or any other U.S. refugee program, but who were deemed ineligible for reasons of administrative error or certain circumstances beyond their control.

vietnam human rights act prohibits federal government providing government vietnam nonhumanitarian development trade economic security assistance fiscal year exceeds assistance provided fy2008 increases matched exceeded additional funding programs focusing human rights democracy promotion authorizes president waive requirements increased nonhumanitarian assistance promote purposes act national interest prohibits president providing certain duty free treatment vietnam president certifies congress government vietnam protects freedom association engage violations workers rights authorizes president provide assistance appropriate nongovernmental organizations support individuals organizations promote human rights vietnam expresses sense congress diplomacy government vietnam declares policy measures necessary overcome jamming radio_free_asia government vietnam educational cultural exchange programs vietnam promote progress freedom democracy declares policy offer refugee resettlement vietnam nationals including members montagnard ethnic minority groups eligible humanitarian resettlement program orderly departure program program amerasian act refugee program deemed ineligible reasons administrative error certain circumstances control


Summary: Establishes in the legislative branch the Independent Commission on the 2004 Coup d'Etat in the Republic of Haiti. Directs the Commission to examine the U.S. government's role in the February 2004 coup d'etat in the Republic of Haiti. Terminates the Commission 60 days after submission of its final report to Congress and the President.

establishes legislative branch coup directs commission examine government role february coup terminates commission days submission final report congress president


Summary: Iran Diplomatic Accountability Act of 2009 - Directs: (1) the President to appoint a high-level U.S. representative or special envoy for Iran for the purpose of easing tensions and normalizing relations between the United States and Iran; and (2) the Secretary of State to establish a Department of State office to support the work of such representative or special envoy.

iran diplomatic accountability act directs president appoint high level representative special envoy iran purpose easing tensions relations united_states iran secretary state establish department_of_state office support work representative special envoy


Summary: Iraq Security Agreement Act of 2009 - Directs the President to report annually to the appropriate congressional committees respecting U.S. security commitments to, and arrangements with, other countries. Directs the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Defense to consult with the appropriate congressional committees respecting negotiations pursuant to the Declaration of Principles between the United States and Iraq. Prohibits any agreement (or the obligation of implementing funds) containing a security commitment to, or security arrangement with, the Republic of Iraq, from entering into force except pursuant to Article II, section 2, clause 2 (relating to treaties) or Article I, section 7, clause 2 (relating to enactment of laws) of the Constitution of the United States.

iraq security agreement act directs president report annually appropriate congressional committees respecting security commitments arrangements countries directs secretary state secretary defense consult appropriate congressional committees respecting negotiations pursuant declaration principles united_states iraq prohibits agreement obligation implementing funds containing security commitment security arrangement republic_of_iraq entering force pursuant article section clause relating treaties article section clause relating enactment laws constitution united_states


Summary: Security through Termination Of Proliferation Act of 2009 or the STOP Act of 2009 - States that specified U.S. sanctions with respect to Iran, North Korea, or Syria shall remain in effect until the President certifies to the appropriate congressional committees that such country has verifiably dismantled its weapons of mass destruction programs. Amends the Iran, North Korea, and Syria Nonproliferation Act to include within the scope of such Act (including identification/reporting and sanction provisions) persons involved in the transshipment (as defined by this Act) of certain goods, services, or technology. Establishes restrictions on nuclear cooperation with a country that is assisting the nuclear program of, or transferring advanced conventional weapons or missiles to, Iran, North Korea, or Syria. Provides for exclusion from the United States (with a discretionary national security waiver by the President) of an alien who is a senior government official of a foreign government or a corporate principal or significant shareholder of a foreign person identified as involved in proliferation activities respecting Iran, North Korea, or Syria. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) deny a foreign tax credit to a taxpayer engaged in business activity with Iran that is prohibited by U.S. law; and (2) set forth income tax provisions respecting a foreign corporation engaged in business activity with Iran that is prohibited by U.S. law. Establishes the Compensation for Former United States Hostages in Iran Fund.

security termination proliferation act stop act 2009_-_states specified sanctions respect iran north_korea syria shall remain effect president certifies appropriate congressional committees country verifiably dismantled weapons mass destruction programs amends iran north_korea syria nonproliferation act include scope act including identification reporting sanction provisions persons involved transshipment defined act certain goods services technology establishes restrictions nuclear cooperation country assisting nuclear program transferring advanced conventional weapons missiles iran north_korea syria provides exclusion united_states discretionary national security waiver president alien senior government official foreign government corporate principal significant shareholder foreign person identified involved proliferation activities respecting iran north_korea syria amends internal revenue code deny foreign tax credit taxpayer engaged business activity iran prohibited law set forth income tax provisions respecting foreign corporation engaged business activity iran prohibited law establishes compensation united states hostages iran fund


Summary: Iraqi Refugee and Internally Displaced Persons Humanitarian Assistance, Resettlement, and Security Act of 2009 - Expresses the sense of Congress concerning Iraqi refugees and internally displaced persons. Directs the Secretary of State, with respect to vulnerable populations in Iraq and with respect to countries containing a significant population of Iraqi refugees (including Jordan, Syria, Turkey, Lebanon, and Egypt), to provide such countries or appropriate international organizations and nongovernmental organizations with specified humanitarian assistance. Directs the Secretary to make every effort to ensure that the humanitarian needs of vulnerable populations in Iraq and Iraqi refugees in neighboring countries are met. Authorizes appropriations: (1) for such humanitarian assistance; and (2) to Jordan for humanitarian assistance to Iraqi refugees and to provide the necessary infrastructure to support both the needs of Iraqi refugees and the Jordanian people. Requires that related fund monitoring mechanisms be established. Prohibits direct bilateral assistance to Syria. Increases FY2009-FY2011 refugee admission limitations for the purpose of admitting Iraqi citizens or nationals who became refugees on or after March 19, 2003. Authorizes appropriations. Directs the Secretary, by a specified date and subject to the availability of appropriations, to have increased by 100% the number of federal personnel in Iraq and in other appropriate countries who are conducting security reviews of Iraqi refugee applicants. Authorizes appropriations. Directs the Secretary to work with the international community to provide: (1) financial assistance to vulnerable populations in Iraq and to Iraqi refugees in neighboring countries; and (2) technical and financial assistance to international organizations in order to process refugees. Defines "vulnerable populations in Iraq."

internally displaced persons humanitarian assistance resettlement security act expresses sense congress concerning iraqi refugees internally displaced persons directs secretary state respect vulnerable populations iraq respect countries containing significant population iraqi refugees including jordan syria turkey lebanon egypt provide countries appropriate international organizations nongovernmental organizations specified humanitarian assistance directs secretary effort ensure humanitarian needs vulnerable populations iraq iraqi refugees neighboring countries met authorizes appropriations humanitarian assistance jordan humanitarian assistance iraqi refugees provide necessary infrastructure support needs iraqi refugees people requires related fund monitoring mechanisms established prohibits direct bilateral assistance syria increases fy2009 fy2011 refugee admission limitations purpose admitting iraqi citizens nationals refugees march authorizes appropriations directs secretary specified date subject availability appropriations increased number federal personnel iraq appropriate countries conducting security reviews iraqi refugee applicants authorizes appropriations directs secretary work international community provide financial assistance vulnerable populations iraq iraqi refugees neighboring countries technical financial assistance international organizations order process refugees defines vulnerable populations iraq


Summary: Egyptian Counterterrorism and Political Reform Act - Prohibits military assistance to Egypt beginning in FY2010 unless the President certifies to Congress for a given fiscal year that it is in U.S. national security interests to provide such assistance. Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) funds that would have been provided for military assistance should be given in the form of additional economic support fund assistance and not used by the armed forces of Egypt; (2) the President should certify the establishment of procedures to ensure access by the Comptroller General to appropriate financial information in order to review the use of these funds; and (3) the agreement among the United States, Egypt, and Israel to decrease the overall amount of U.S. foreign assistance for both countries should continue.

egyptian counterterrorism political reform act prohibits military assistance egypt beginning fy2010 president certifies congress given fiscal year national security interests provide assistance expresses sense congress funds provided military assistance given form additional economic support fund assistance armed forces egypt president certify establishment procedures ensure access comptroller_general appropriate financial information order review use funds agreement united_states egypt israel decrease overall foreign assistance countries continue


Summary: Prohibit Aid to Saudi Arabia Act of 2009 - Prohibits obligating or spending funds appropriated for Department of State, foreign operations, and related programs to finance directly any assistance for Saudi Arabia. Includes in such prohibition direct loans, credits, insurance, and guarantees of the U.S. Export-Import Bank.

prohibit aid prohibits obligating spending funds appropriated department_of_state foreign operations related programs finance directly assistance saudi_arabia includes prohibition direct loans credits insurance guarantees


Summary: Freedom to Travel to Cuba Act - Prohibits the President from regulating or prohibiting travel to or from Cuba by U.S. citizens or legal residents or any of the transactions ordinarily incident to such travel, except in time of war or armed hostilities between the United States and Cuba, or of imminent danger to the public health or the physical safety of U.S. travelers.

freedom travel president regulating prohibiting travel cuba citizens legal residents transactions ordinarily incident travel time war armed hostilities united_states cuba imminent danger public health physical safety travelers


Summary: Guadalupe-Hidalgo Treaty Land Claims Act of 2009 - Establishes the Guadalupe-Hidalgo Treaty Land Claims Commission to determine the validity of land claims arising out of the Treaty of Guadalupe-Hidalgo of 1848. Authorizes three or more eligible descendants of the same community land grant to petition the Commission on behalf of themselves and all other descendants. Directs the Commission to recommend appropriate relief to a valid petition, including whether the community land grant should be reconstituted and its non-federal lands restored. Directs the Commission to establish a Community Land Grant Study Center at the Onate Center in Alcalde, New Mexico, to assist the Commission with necessary research and investigations. Directs the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to make necessary personnel, equipment, and facilities available to the Commission. Terminates the Commission 180 days the Commission submits its final report as required by this Act.

establishes treaty land claims commission determine validity land claims arising treaty authorizes eligible descendants community land grant petition commission behalf descendants directs commission recommend appropriate relief valid petition including community land grant non federal lands restored directs commission establish center new_mexico assist commission necessary research investigations directs government_accountability_office gao necessary personnel equipment facilities available commission terminates commission days commission submits final report required act


Summary: Syria Accountability and Liberation Act - Maintains U.S. restrictions against Syria until the President certifies that Syria: (1) has ceased support for terrorism; (2) has dismantled biological, chemical, or nuclear weapons programs and has committed to combat their proliferation; (3) respects the boundaries and sovereignty of all neighboring countries; and (4) upholds human rights and civil liberties. Imposes specified trade, assistance, admissions, and military sanctions, as appropriate, on persons or countries that transfer goods or technology contributing to Syria's biological, chemical, nuclear, or advanced conventional weapons programs. Imposes specified sanctions aimed at Syria's energy sector. Sets forth diplomatic measures intended to isolate the government of Syria. Authorizes the President to provide assistance to support a democratic transition in Syria.

syria accountability liberation act maintains restrictions syria president certifies syria ceased support terrorism dismantled biological chemical nuclear weapons programs committed combat proliferation respects boundaries sovereignty neighboring countries upholds human rights civil liberties imposes specified trade assistance admissions military sanctions appropriate persons countries transfer goods technology contributing syria biological chemical nuclear advanced conventional weapons programs imposes specified sanctions aimed syria energy sector sets forth diplomatic measures intended isolate government syria authorizes president provide assistance support democratic transition syria


Summary: Iran Threat Reduction Act of 2009 - Amends the Iran Freedom Support Act to maintain specified U.S. sanctions with respect to Iran until the President certifies to the appropriate congressional committees that Iran has verifiably dismantled its weapons of mass destruction programs and ceased its support for international terrorism. Amends the Iran Sanctions Act of 1996 to: (1) include transshipment among sanctionable activities; and (2) exclude from the United States an alien who is a senior government official of a foreign government or a corporate principal or significant shareholder of a foreign person involved in proliferation activities relating to Iran. Expands: (1) the scope of sanctionable "persons" to include any business organization and any foreign subsidiary or affiliate; and (2) the definition of "petroleum resources" to include petroleum byproducts, oil or liquefied natural gas or liquefied natural gas tankers, and products used to construct or maintain pipelines used to transport oil or compressed or liquefied natural gas. Prohibits, with a discretionary waiver, U.S. importation of Iranian products other than information materials. Subjects an entity to penalties for violations of certain sanctions committed by a subsidiary established by such entity outside of the United States that would be subject to prohibitions if committed inside the United States or by a U.S. person. Authorizes the President to impose sanctions on principal executive officers of sanctioned persons. Amends the Iran, North Korea, and Syria Nonproliferation Act to include within the scope of such Act persons involved in the transshipment of certain goods, services, or technology. Prohibits service module payments to the Russian Aviation and Space Agency. Sets forth provisions regarding divestment from Iran's energy sector. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) deny a foreign tax credit to a taxpayer engaged in business activity with Iran that is prohibited by U.S. law; and (2) set forth income tax provisions respecting a foreign corporation engaged in business activity with Iran that is prohibited by U.S. law. Establishes the Compensation for Former United States Hostages in Iran Fund. Identifies claims to be paid. Establishes restrictions on nuclear cooperation with a country that is assisting the nuclear program of, or transferring advanced conventional weapons or missiles to, Iran.

iran threat reduction act amends iran freedom support act maintain specified sanctions respect iran president certifies appropriate congressional committees iran verifiably dismantled weapons mass destruction programs ceased support international terrorism amends iran sanctions act include transshipment sanctionable activities exclude united_states alien senior government official foreign government corporate principal significant shareholder foreign person involved proliferation activities relating iran expands scope sanctionable persons include business organization foreign subsidiary affiliate definition petroleum resources include petroleum byproducts oil liquefied natural gas liquefied natural gas tankers products construct maintain pipelines transport oil compressed liquefied natural gas prohibits discretionary waiver importation iranian products information materials subjects entity penalties violations certain sanctions committed subsidiary established entity outside united_states subject prohibitions committed inside united_states person authorizes president impose sanctions principal executive officers sanctioned persons amends iran north_korea syria nonproliferation act include scope act persons involved transshipment certain goods services technology prohibits service module payments sets forth provisions divestment iran energy sector amends internal revenue code deny foreign tax credit taxpayer engaged business activity iran prohibited law set forth income tax provisions respecting foreign corporation engaged business activity iran prohibited law establishes compensation united states hostages iran fund identifies claims paid establishes restrictions nuclear cooperation country assisting nuclear program transferring advanced conventional weapons missiles iran


Summary: Saudi Arabia Accountability Act of 2009 - Expresses the sense of Congress that the government of Saudi Arabia: (1) cooperate fully with the United States in the investigation of terror groups and individuals; (2) close permanently all organizations in Saudi Arabia that fund, train, encourage, or in any way aid terrorism anywhere in the world, and end funding for such organizations outside Saudi Arabia; and (3) block funding from private Saudi citizens and entities to Saudi-based or offshore terror organizations. Directs the President to prohibit certain exports to Saudi Arabia and restrict travel of certain Saudi diplomats if the President cannot certify to the appropriate congressional committees that the government of Saudi Arabia: (1) is fully cooperating with the United States in investigating and preventing terrorist attacks; (2) has closed permanently all Saudi-based terror organizations; (3) has ended funding for any offshore terror organization; and (4) has exercised maximum efforts to block funding from private Saudi citizens and entities to offshore terror organizations. Allows the President to waive such sanctions for national security reasons. Prohibits visa issuance to citizens of Saudi Arabia until the President certifies that Saudi Arabia does not discriminate in visa issuance based upon religion or heritage.

saudi_arabia accountability act expresses sense congress government saudi_arabia cooperate fully united_states investigation terror groups individuals close permanently organizations saudi_arabia fund train encourage way aid terrorism world end funding organizations outside saudi_arabia block funding private citizens entities based offshore terror organizations directs president prohibit certain exports saudi_arabia restrict travel certain diplomats president certify appropriate congressional committees government saudi_arabia fully cooperating united_states investigating preventing terrorist attacks closed permanently based terror organizations ended funding offshore terror organization exercised maximum efforts block funding private citizens entities offshore terror organizations allows president waive sanctions national security reasons prohibits visa issuance citizens saudi_arabia president certifies saudi_arabia discriminate visa issuance based religion heritage


Summary: Iran Sanctions Enabling Act of 2009 - (Sec. 3) States that it is the policy of the United States to support the decision of state and local governments and educational institutions to divest from, and to prohibit the investment of assets they control in, persons that the have investments of more than $20 million in Iran's energy sector. Authorizes a state or local government to adopt and enforce measures to divest its assets from, or prohibit their investment in, any person that the state or local government determines, using credible information available to the public, engages in certain investment activities in Iran. Specifies such activities as: (1) the investment of $20 million or more in Iran's energy sector; or (2) provision of oil or liquefied natural gas tankers, or products used to construct or maintain pipelines used to transport oil or liquefied natural gas, for that energy sector. Authorizes divestment, as well, from any financial institution which extend $20 million or more in credit to another person, for 45 days or more, if that person will use the credit to invest in Iran's energy sector. Expresses the sense of Congress that a state or local government should not adopt such measures against such a person unless it has made every effort to avoid erroneously targeting the person and has verified that such person engages in such investment activities. Declares that any measure of a state or local government authorized under this Act is not preempted by any federal law or regulation. (Sec. 4) Amends the Investment Company Act of 1940 to shield any registered investment company from civil, criminal, or administrative action based upon its divesting from, or avoiding investing in, securities issued by persons that have invested in Sudan or in Iran. (Sec. 5) Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) to shield from treatment as breaching a fiduciary duty any person divesting employee benefit plan assets from, or avoiding investing plan assets in, persons that have engaged in such investment activities in Iran. (Sec. 7) Terminates this Act 30 days after the President certifies to Congress that the government of Iran has ceased: (1) providing support for acts of international terrorism and no longer satisfies the requirements for designation as a state-sponsor of terrorism; or (2) the pursuit, acquisition, and development of nuclear, biological, and chemical weapons and ballistic missiles and ballistic missile launch technology.

iran sanctions enabling act sec states policy united_states support decision state local governments educational institutions divest prohibit investment assets control persons investments million iran energy sector authorizes state local government adopt enforce measures divest assets prohibit investment person state local government determines credible information available public engages certain investment activities iran specifies activities investment million iran energy sector provision oil liquefied natural gas tankers products construct maintain pipelines transport oil liquefied natural gas energy sector authorizes divestment financial institution extend million credit person days person use credit invest iran energy sector expresses sense congress state local government adopt measures person effort avoid erroneously targeting person verified person engages investment activities declares measure state local government authorized act preempted federal law regulation sec amends investment company act shield registered investment company civil criminal administrative action based divesting avoiding investing securities issued persons invested sudan iran sec amends employee retirement income security act erisa shield treatment breaching fiduciary duty person divesting employee benefit plan assets avoiding investing plan assets persons engaged investment activities iran sec terminates act days president certifies congress government iran ceased providing support acts international terrorism longer satisfies requirements designation state sponsor terrorism pursuit acquisition development nuclear biological chemical weapons ballistic missiles ballistic missile launch technology


Summary: Border Reinforcement and Violence Reduction Act of 2009 - Authorizes and directs the Attorney General and the Secretary of Homeland Security to expand resources, make grants, and take other actions to protect U.S. citizens and property and to identify, investigate, and prosecute firearms trafficking and other unlawful activities along the U.S.-Mexican border. Border Law Enforcement Enhancement Act of 2009 - Authorizes the Secretary to make border security grants to local sheriffs' offices and police departments within 25 miles of the southern border of the United States. Allows grant funds to be used to pay for law enforcement operations along the U.S.-Mexican border, the costs of training and equipping law enforcement personnel, transporting illegal aliens to U.S. custody, and building detention facilities. Southwest Border Violence Reduction Act of 2009 - Directs the Attorney General to: (1) to dedicate and expand resources for the Project Gunrunner initiative of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) to identify, investigate, and prosecute firearms trafficking across the U.S.-Mexican border; and (2) provide ATF agents, equipment, and training to assist Mexican law enforcement officers in combating firearms trafficking and other criminal enterprises. Directs the Secretary to: (1) dedicate and expand resources for the Operation Armas Cruzadas of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to identify, investigate, and prosecute firearms trafficking, smuggling, and other unlawful activities across the U.S.-Mexican border; and (2) coordinate with other federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to develop a comprehensive and strategic plan to inspect vehicles heading into Mexico.

border violence reduction act authorizes directs attorney general secretary homeland_security expand resources grants actions protect citizens property identify investigate prosecute firearms trafficking unlawful activities border border law enforcement enhancement act authorizes secretary border security grants local sheriffs offices police departments miles southern border united_states allows grant funds pay law enforcement operations border costs training equipping law enforcement personnel transporting illegal aliens custody building detention facilities directs attorney general dedicate expand resources project gunrunner initiative explosives atf identify investigate prosecute firearms trafficking border provide atf agents equipment training assist mexican law enforcement officers combating firearms trafficking criminal enterprises directs secretary dedicate expand resources operation identify investigate prosecute firearms trafficking smuggling unlawful activities border coordinate federal state local law enforcement agencies develop comprehensive strategic plan inspect vehicles heading mexico


Summary: Export Freedom to Cuba Act of 2009 - Prohibits the President from regulating or prohibiting travel to or from Cuba by U.S. citizens or legal residents, or any of the transactions ordinarily incident to such travel relating to: (1) accompanied personal baggage; (2) payment of living expenses and the acquisition of personal-use goods or services; (3) travel arrangements; (4) nonscheduled air, sea, or land voyage transactions (such provision does not permit the carriage of articles other than accompanied baggage into Cuba or the United States); and (5) normal banking transactions. Prohibits the above provisions from: (1) restricting presidential authority in time of war or armed hostilities between the United States and Cuba, or of imminent danger to the public health or the physical safety of U.S. travelers; and (2) authorizing U.S. importation of personal consumption goods acquired in Cuba.

export freedom cuba act prohibits president regulating prohibiting travel cuba citizens legal residents transactions ordinarily incident travel relating accompanied personal baggage payment living expenses acquisition personal use goods services travel arrangements nonscheduled air sea land voyage transactions provision permit carriage articles accompanied baggage cuba united_states normal banking transactions prohibits provisions restricting presidential authority time war armed hostilities united_states cuba imminent danger public health physical safety travelers authorizing importation personal consumption goods acquired cuba