Fact Sheet: Safety of Thimerosal in Vaccines Against 2009 H1N1 Flu
"The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is aware that pregnant women, parents of young children, and others may have questions about the safety of thimerosal in vaccines against 2009 H1N1 flu. Here is some information to help you in making decisions.
Thimerosal Use Prevents Vaccine Contamination
Thimerosal is a mercury-containing preservative that is added to multi-dose vials (vials containing more than one dose) of vaccine to prevent contamination and growth of potentially harmful bacteria. This may occur when a syringe needle enters a vial as a vaccine is being prepared for administration. Such contamination could cause serious local reactions, illness, or death..."
Friday, January 29, 2010
U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood Announces Federal Ban on Texting for Commercial Truck Drivers
".S Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today announced federal guidance to expressly prohibit texting by drivers of commercial vehicles such as large trucks and buses. The prohibition is effective immediately and is the latest in a series of actions taken by the Department to combat distracted driving since the Secretary convened a national summit on the issue last September.
"We want the drivers of big rigs and buses and those who share the roads with them to be safe," said Secretary LaHood. "This is an important safety step and we will be taking more to eliminate the threat of distracted driving."
The action is the result of the Department's interpretation of standing rules. Truck and bus drivers who text while driving commercial vehicles may be subject to civil or criminal penalties of up to $2,750..."
".S Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today announced federal guidance to expressly prohibit texting by drivers of commercial vehicles such as large trucks and buses. The prohibition is effective immediately and is the latest in a series of actions taken by the Department to combat distracted driving since the Secretary convened a national summit on the issue last September.
"We want the drivers of big rigs and buses and those who share the roads with them to be safe," said Secretary LaHood. "This is an important safety step and we will be taking more to eliminate the threat of distracted driving."
The action is the result of the Department's interpretation of standing rules. Truck and bus drivers who text while driving commercial vehicles may be subject to civil or criminal penalties of up to $2,750..."
President Obama delivers on American High-Speed Rail
"I have looked forward to this day for a long time.
It is a great honor--a great honor--to have President Obama and Vice President Biden in Tampa, Florida, to announce our American Recovery and Reinvestment Act High-Speed and Inter-city Passenger Rail grants...
The investments we announce today make rail a viable transportation alternative in many regions. With this historic $8 billion investment by President Obama, we are jump-starting American High-Speed rail.
The bulk of today's awards go to new, large-scale high-speed rail programs--projects such as Florida, with $1.25 billion to develop a high-speed rail corridor between Tampa and Orlando with trains running up to 168 miles per hour--and California, with $2.25 billion to connect Los Angeles to San Francisco and points in between with trains running up to 220 miles per hour.
In total, 31 states and the District of Columbia will receive awards. In addition to 13 corridor investments, we are also awarding several grants for improvement projects and planning. These efforts on existing routes and emerging corridors will lay the groundwork for future high-speed and intercity rail development..."
"I have looked forward to this day for a long time.
It is a great honor--a great honor--to have President Obama and Vice President Biden in Tampa, Florida, to announce our American Recovery and Reinvestment Act High-Speed and Inter-city Passenger Rail grants...
The investments we announce today make rail a viable transportation alternative in many regions. With this historic $8 billion investment by President Obama, we are jump-starting American High-Speed rail.
The bulk of today's awards go to new, large-scale high-speed rail programs--projects such as Florida, with $1.25 billion to develop a high-speed rail corridor between Tampa and Orlando with trains running up to 168 miles per hour--and California, with $2.25 billion to connect Los Angeles to San Francisco and points in between with trains running up to 220 miles per hour.
In total, 31 states and the District of Columbia will receive awards. In addition to 13 corridor investments, we are also awarding several grants for improvement projects and planning. These efforts on existing routes and emerging corridors will lay the groundwork for future high-speed and intercity rail development..."
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Joint Economic Committee Releases New State-by-State Report
" A new report released today by the Joint Economic Committee (JEC) provides a snapshot of the current economic climate in each state, offering policy makers easy access to the major economic indicators in all 50 states and the District of Columbia in the areas of jobs, unemployment, personal earnings and housing.
“Understanding the Economy: State-by-State Snapshots” offers a gauge of the economic landscape of each state, allowing for quick comparisons with other states and to the overall U.S. economy.
“We believe the state reports are a useful resource for Members of Congress and other policy makers as well as interested individuals who want access to fresh, reliable, state-specific data without having to dig around for it,” said Chair of the Joint Economic Committee (JEC) Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney. “These state pages offer a guide to the state of local economies across the country, helping us to better understand the specific impacts of the Great Recession and also to see where growth and recovery have begun to take hold.".."
" A new report released today by the Joint Economic Committee (JEC) provides a snapshot of the current economic climate in each state, offering policy makers easy access to the major economic indicators in all 50 states and the District of Columbia in the areas of jobs, unemployment, personal earnings and housing.
“Understanding the Economy: State-by-State Snapshots” offers a gauge of the economic landscape of each state, allowing for quick comparisons with other states and to the overall U.S. economy.
“We believe the state reports are a useful resource for Members of Congress and other policy makers as well as interested individuals who want access to fresh, reliable, state-specific data without having to dig around for it,” said Chair of the Joint Economic Committee (JEC) Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney. “These state pages offer a guide to the state of local economies across the country, helping us to better understand the specific impacts of the Great Recession and also to see where growth and recovery have begun to take hold.".."
Honey Bee Colony Collapse Disorder
"Starting in late 2006, commercial migratory beekeepers along the East Coast of the United States
began reporting sharp declines in their honey bee colonies. Because of the severity and unusual
circumstances of these colony declines, scientists named this phenomenon colony collapse
disorder (CCD). Reports indicate that beekeepers in most states have been affected. Overall, the
number of managed honey bee colonies dropped an estimated 35.8% and 31.8% in the winters
of 2007/2008 and 2006/2007, respectively. Preliminary loss estimates for the 2008/2009
winter are reported at 28.6%. To date, the precise reasons for colony losses are not yet known..."
"Starting in late 2006, commercial migratory beekeepers along the East Coast of the United States
began reporting sharp declines in their honey bee colonies. Because of the severity and unusual
circumstances of these colony declines, scientists named this phenomenon colony collapse
disorder (CCD). Reports indicate that beekeepers in most states have been affected. Overall, the
number of managed honey bee colonies dropped an estimated 35.8% and 31.8% in the winters
of 2007/2008 and 2006/2007, respectively. Preliminary loss estimates for the 2008/2009
winter are reported at 28.6%. To date, the precise reasons for colony losses are not yet known..."
Terrorist Attacks on Commercial Airlines: Federal Criminal Prohibitions
"Federal authorities can and have prosecuted terrorist attacks on commercial airlines under a wide variety of federal statutes. Some of those statutes outlaw crimes committed aboard a commercial airliner; some, crimes committed against the aircraft itself; others, crimes involving the use of firearms or explosives; still others, crimes committed for terrorist purposes. Within each category, the law reaches co-conspirators and other accomplices. Moreover, although most apply when committed
within the United States, many apply to terrorist attacks overseas, particularly
but necessarily, when the victims are Americans or U.S. airlines."
"Federal authorities can and have prosecuted terrorist attacks on commercial airlines under a wide variety of federal statutes. Some of those statutes outlaw crimes committed aboard a commercial airliner; some, crimes committed against the aircraft itself; others, crimes involving the use of firearms or explosives; still others, crimes committed for terrorist purposes. Within each category, the law reaches co-conspirators and other accomplices. Moreover, although most apply when committed
within the United States, many apply to terrorist attacks overseas, particularly
but necessarily, when the victims are Americans or U.S. airlines."
Commission for the Prevention of Weapons of Mass Destruction Proliferation, Report Card
"..Former Senator Bob Graham (D-FL) and former Senator Jim Talent (R-MO), chair and vice chair of the bipartisan Commission on the Prevention of Weapons of Mass Destruction Proliferation and Terrorism, today released a report card indicating that the U.S. government is not taking the necessary steps to protect the country from the threats posed by WMD and terrorism.
Of 17 grades, the report card includes three failing “F” grades on rapid and effective response to bioterrorism; Congressional oversight of homeland security and intelligence; and national security workforce recruitment. Fortunately, all three grades could be substantially improved by committed leadership in Congress and the Administration..."
"..Former Senator Bob Graham (D-FL) and former Senator Jim Talent (R-MO), chair and vice chair of the bipartisan Commission on the Prevention of Weapons of Mass Destruction Proliferation and Terrorism, today released a report card indicating that the U.S. government is not taking the necessary steps to protect the country from the threats posed by WMD and terrorism.
Of 17 grades, the report card includes three failing “F” grades on rapid and effective response to bioterrorism; Congressional oversight of homeland security and intelligence; and national security workforce recruitment. Fortunately, all three grades could be substantially improved by committed leadership in Congress and the Administration..."
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
CBO: Budget Outlook 2010
"CBO projects, that if current laws and policies remained unchanged, the federal budget would show a deficit of $1.3 trillion for fiscal year 2010. At 9.2 percent of gross domestic product (GDP), that deficit would be slightly smaller than the shortfall of 9.9 percent of GDP ($1.4 trillion) posted in 2009. Last year's deficit was the largest as a share of GDP since the end of World War II, and the deficit expected for 2010 would be the second largest. Moreover, if legislation is enacted in the next several months that either boosts spending or reduces revenues, the 2010 deficit could equal or exceed last year's shortfall."
"CBO projects, that if current laws and policies remained unchanged, the federal budget would show a deficit of $1.3 trillion for fiscal year 2010. At 9.2 percent of gross domestic product (GDP), that deficit would be slightly smaller than the shortfall of 9.9 percent of GDP ($1.4 trillion) posted in 2009. Last year's deficit was the largest as a share of GDP since the end of World War II, and the deficit expected for 2010 would be the second largest. Moreover, if legislation is enacted in the next several months that either boosts spending or reduces revenues, the 2010 deficit could equal or exceed last year's shortfall."
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
The National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC)—Responsibilities and Potential Congressional Concerns
"...Two recent incidents—the assassination by an Army Major of some 13 individuals at Fort Hood
Army Base on November 5, 2009 and the failed attempt to trigger a bomb on an airliner
approaching Detroit on December 25, 2009—led to increased concern about counterterrorism
capabilities domestically and internationally. An Executive Branch assessment of the December
bombing attempt concluded that, whereas information sharing had been adequate, analysts had
failed to “connect the dots” and achieve an understanding of an ongoing plot. Attention has
focused on the NCTC which is responsible for ensuring both the sharing of information and for
all-source analysis of terrorist issues.
Congressional hearings have been scheduled to review what was known in advance about the
individuals involved in these two incidents. Congress may choose to go further to review the
statutory responsibilities of NCTC as well as the record of the Center since it was established in
2004. This Report will be updated as more information becomes available."
"...Two recent incidents—the assassination by an Army Major of some 13 individuals at Fort Hood
Army Base on November 5, 2009 and the failed attempt to trigger a bomb on an airliner
approaching Detroit on December 25, 2009—led to increased concern about counterterrorism
capabilities domestically and internationally. An Executive Branch assessment of the December
bombing attempt concluded that, whereas information sharing had been adequate, analysts had
failed to “connect the dots” and achieve an understanding of an ongoing plot. Attention has
focused on the NCTC which is responsible for ensuring both the sharing of information and for
all-source analysis of terrorist issues.
Congressional hearings have been scheduled to review what was known in advance about the
individuals involved in these two incidents. Congress may choose to go further to review the
statutory responsibilities of NCTC as well as the record of the Center since it was established in
2004. This Report will be updated as more information becomes available."
EPA Strengthens Air Quality Standard for Nitrogen Dioxide
" The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today announced a new national air quality standard for nitrogen dioxide (NO2). This new one-hour standard will protect millions of Americans from peak short-term exposures, which primarily occur near major roads. Short-term exposures to NO2 have been linked to impaired lung function and increased respiratory infections, especially in people with asthma.
“This new one-hour standard is designed to protect the air we breathe and reduce health threats for millions of Americans. For the first time ever, we are working to prevent short-term exposures in high risk NO2 zones like urban communities and areas near roadways,” said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. “Improving air quality is a top priority for this EPA. We’re moving into the clean, sustainable economy of the 21st century, defined by expanded innovation, stronger pollution standards and healthier communities.”
The agency set the new one-hour standard for NO2 at a level of 100 parts per billion (ppb). EPA also is retaining the existing annual average standard of 53 ppb. NO2 is formed from vehicle, power plant and other industrial emissions, and contributes to the formation of fine particle pollution and smog. Earlier this month, EPA proposed to tighten the nation’s smog standards to protect the health of all Americans, especially children..."
" The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today announced a new national air quality standard for nitrogen dioxide (NO2). This new one-hour standard will protect millions of Americans from peak short-term exposures, which primarily occur near major roads. Short-term exposures to NO2 have been linked to impaired lung function and increased respiratory infections, especially in people with asthma.
“This new one-hour standard is designed to protect the air we breathe and reduce health threats for millions of Americans. For the first time ever, we are working to prevent short-term exposures in high risk NO2 zones like urban communities and areas near roadways,” said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. “Improving air quality is a top priority for this EPA. We’re moving into the clean, sustainable economy of the 21st century, defined by expanded innovation, stronger pollution standards and healthier communities.”
The agency set the new one-hour standard for NO2 at a level of 100 parts per billion (ppb). EPA also is retaining the existing annual average standard of 53 ppb. NO2 is formed from vehicle, power plant and other industrial emissions, and contributes to the formation of fine particle pollution and smog. Earlier this month, EPA proposed to tighten the nation’s smog standards to protect the health of all Americans, especially children..."
Displacing Coal with Generation from Existing Natural Gas-Fired Power Plants
"Reducing carbon dioxide emissions from coal plants is a focus of many proposals for cutting
greenhouse gas emissions. One option is to replace some coal power with natural gas generation,
a relatively low carbon source of electricity, by increasing the power output from currently
underutilized natural gas plants.
This report provides an overview of the issues involved in displacing coal-fired generation with
electricity from existing natural gas plants. This is a complex subject and the report does not seek to provide definitive answers. The report aims to highlight the key issues that Congress may want to consider in deciding whether to rely on, and encourage, displacement of coal-fired electricity with power from existing natural gas plants.
The report finds that the potential for displacing coal by making greater use of existing gas-
fired power plants depends on numerous factors. These include:
• The amount of excess natural gas-fired generating capacity available.
• The current operating patterns of coal and gas plants, and the amount of
flexibility power system operators have for changing those patterns.
• Whether or not the transmission grid can deliver power from existing gas power
plants to loads currently served by coal plants.
• Whether there is sufficient natural gas supply, and pipeline and gas storage
capacity, to deliver large amounts of additional fuel to gas-fired power plants..."
"Reducing carbon dioxide emissions from coal plants is a focus of many proposals for cutting
greenhouse gas emissions. One option is to replace some coal power with natural gas generation,
a relatively low carbon source of electricity, by increasing the power output from currently
underutilized natural gas plants.
This report provides an overview of the issues involved in displacing coal-fired generation with
electricity from existing natural gas plants. This is a complex subject and the report does not seek to provide definitive answers. The report aims to highlight the key issues that Congress may want to consider in deciding whether to rely on, and encourage, displacement of coal-fired electricity with power from existing natural gas plants.
The report finds that the potential for displacing coal by making greater use of existing gas-
fired power plants depends on numerous factors. These include:
• The amount of excess natural gas-fired generating capacity available.
• The current operating patterns of coal and gas plants, and the amount of
flexibility power system operators have for changing those patterns.
• Whether or not the transmission grid can deliver power from existing gas power
plants to loads currently served by coal plants.
• Whether there is sufficient natural gas supply, and pipeline and gas storage
capacity, to deliver large amounts of additional fuel to gas-fired power plants..."
Cargo Targeting and Examinations
"Section 809(g) of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2004 (Public Law 108-293) requires the Office of Inspector General to submit an annual report on its evaluation of the current targeting system for international intermodal cargo containers. The Customs and Border Protection is responsible for operation of the targeting system and conducting cargo examinations. This is our fifth audit on selected aspects of the Automated Targeting System. The purpose of this audit was to evaluate selected aspects of the Automated Targeting System, to determine their effectiveness in assisting the agency in detecting potential acts of terrorism, and to identify actions needed to improve the targeting of high-risk containers for inspection.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection could improve its record retention processes to support decisions made to waive or inspect high-risk shipments. Of the 391 shipments identified as high-risk and selected for review, 57 did not have enough documentation to support the decisions that were made. Therefore, there was no means of substantiating that officers properly or consistently followed procedures in waiving or examining shipments to keep dangerous goods from entering U.S. commerce.
Guidance on how to conduct and record physical examinations..."
"Section 809(g) of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2004 (Public Law 108-293) requires the Office of Inspector General to submit an annual report on its evaluation of the current targeting system for international intermodal cargo containers. The Customs and Border Protection is responsible for operation of the targeting system and conducting cargo examinations. This is our fifth audit on selected aspects of the Automated Targeting System. The purpose of this audit was to evaluate selected aspects of the Automated Targeting System, to determine their effectiveness in assisting the agency in detecting potential acts of terrorism, and to identify actions needed to improve the targeting of high-risk containers for inspection.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection could improve its record retention processes to support decisions made to waive or inspect high-risk shipments. Of the 391 shipments identified as high-risk and selected for review, 57 did not have enough documentation to support the decisions that were made. Therefore, there was no means of substantiating that officers properly or consistently followed procedures in waiving or examining shipments to keep dangerous goods from entering U.S. commerce.
Guidance on how to conduct and record physical examinations..."
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Estimating Mortality Risk Reduction and Economic Benefits from Controlling Ozone Air Pollution
"January 6, 2010 – The Environmental Protection Agency has proposed to strengthen the national ambient air quality standards for ground-level ozone. Ground-level ozone is a primary component of smog. The proposed revisions are based on scientific evidence about ozone and its effects on people and sensitive trees and plants. EPA will accept comments for 60 days following publication of the proposal in the Federal Register."
"January 6, 2010 – The Environmental Protection Agency has proposed to strengthen the national ambient air quality standards for ground-level ozone. Ground-level ozone is a primary component of smog. The proposed revisions are based on scientific evidence about ozone and its effects on people and sensitive trees and plants. EPA will accept comments for 60 days following publication of the proposal in the Federal Register."
Union Members - 2009
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"In 2009, the union membership rate--the percent of wage and salary workers who were members of a union--was 12.3 percent, essentially unchanged from 12.4 percent a year earlier, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported today. The number of wage and salary workers belonging to unions declined by 771,000 to 15.3 million, largely reflecting the overall drop in employment due to the recession. In 1983, the first year for which comparable union data are available, the union membership rate was 20.1 percent, and there were 17.7 million union workers..."
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"In 2009, the union membership rate--the percent of wage and salary workers who were members of a union--was 12.3 percent, essentially unchanged from 12.4 percent a year earlier, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported today. The number of wage and salary workers belonging to unions declined by 771,000 to 15.3 million, largely reflecting the overall drop in employment due to the recession. In 1983, the first year for which comparable union data are available, the union membership rate was 20.1 percent, and there were 17.7 million union workers..."
Friday, January 22, 2010
Race and Hispanic Origin of the Foreign-Born Population in the United States: 2007
"his report from American Community Survey data describes the race and Hispanic-origin composition of the foreign-born population in 2007 and compares it with that of the total and native-born populations. It shows the foreign-born have a pattern of race and Hispanic-origin reporting that is markedly different from the native population." Internet address
"his report from American Community Survey data describes the race and Hispanic-origin composition of the foreign-born population in 2007 and compares it with that of the total and native-born populations. It shows the foreign-born have a pattern of race and Hispanic-origin reporting that is markedly different from the native population." Internet address
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
IRS e-file: It’s Safe; It’s Easy; It’s Time
"IRS e-file, the popular electronic tax return delivery service used by two-thirds of the nation’s taxpayers, opens for business January 15 and marks 20 years of safely and securely transmitting nearly 800 million individual federal tax returns.
The Internal Revenue Service debuted e-file nationally in 1990, delivering 4.2 million tax returns. Last year, IRS e-file delivered 95 million tax returns, 66 percent of all returns filed.
“Electronic filing is more and more popular every year, and most taxpayers now e-file. IRS e-file means faster refunds. It means the option to file now and pay later if you owe additional tax. It means peace of mind knowing the IRS received the return because we send an acknowledgement. Those are the reasons this has been a popular service,” said Doug Shulman, IRS Commissioner. “IRS e-file is safe, it’s easy and everyone should try it.”
Last year, more than 49 million taxpayers missed out on the e-file benefits. The IRS urges taxpayers, especially those people already using tax software, to take the next step and e-file their return or ask their preparer to e-file their return. The IRS urges tax preparers who electronically file some of their clients’ tax returns to consider filing all tax returns through e-file.
The IRS is working on faster acknowledgements of accepted or rejected returns. Last year, taxpayers received an acknowledgement within 48 hours that the IRS had accepted or rejected their return. Paper filers do not receive any acknowledgement. Also, if the IRS rejects an e-filed return, it will provide more specific explanations of the errors that caused the rejection. This will enable taxpayers to make corrections and quickly resubmit their returns.
IRS e-file offers the fastest, safest way for people to receive their tax refunds. By using e-file and direct deposit, taxpayers can get their refunds in as few as 10 days. Taxpayers even can opt to have their refund deposited into two or three financial accounts or purchase a U.S. Savings Bond...
People must access Free File through the IRS Web site at www.IRS.gov and click on Free File or www.IRS.gov/freefile. People can read more about Free File at www.freefile.IRS.gov."
"IRS e-file, the popular electronic tax return delivery service used by two-thirds of the nation’s taxpayers, opens for business January 15 and marks 20 years of safely and securely transmitting nearly 800 million individual federal tax returns.
The Internal Revenue Service debuted e-file nationally in 1990, delivering 4.2 million tax returns. Last year, IRS e-file delivered 95 million tax returns, 66 percent of all returns filed.
“Electronic filing is more and more popular every year, and most taxpayers now e-file. IRS e-file means faster refunds. It means the option to file now and pay later if you owe additional tax. It means peace of mind knowing the IRS received the return because we send an acknowledgement. Those are the reasons this has been a popular service,” said Doug Shulman, IRS Commissioner. “IRS e-file is safe, it’s easy and everyone should try it.”
Last year, more than 49 million taxpayers missed out on the e-file benefits. The IRS urges taxpayers, especially those people already using tax software, to take the next step and e-file their return or ask their preparer to e-file their return. The IRS urges tax preparers who electronically file some of their clients’ tax returns to consider filing all tax returns through e-file.
The IRS is working on faster acknowledgements of accepted or rejected returns. Last year, taxpayers received an acknowledgement within 48 hours that the IRS had accepted or rejected their return. Paper filers do not receive any acknowledgement. Also, if the IRS rejects an e-filed return, it will provide more specific explanations of the errors that caused the rejection. This will enable taxpayers to make corrections and quickly resubmit their returns.
IRS e-file offers the fastest, safest way for people to receive their tax refunds. By using e-file and direct deposit, taxpayers can get their refunds in as few as 10 days. Taxpayers even can opt to have their refund deposited into two or three financial accounts or purchase a U.S. Savings Bond...
People must access Free File through the IRS Web site at www.IRS.gov and click on Free File or www.IRS.gov/freefile. People can read more about Free File at www.freefile.IRS.gov."
CDC Estimates of 2009 H1N1 Influenza Cases, Hospitalizations and Deaths in the United States, April – December 12, 2009
"...Updated Estimates from April – December 12, 2009
Using the same methodology CDC has updated the estimates to include the time period from April through December 12, 2009.
CDC estimates that between 39 million and 80 million cases of 2009 H1N1 occurred between April and December 12, 2009. The mid-level in this range is about 55 million people infected with 2009 H1N1.
CDC estimates that between about 173,000 and 362,000 2009 H1N1-related hospitalizations occurred between April and December 12, 2009. The mid-level in this range is about 246,000 H1N1-related hospitalizations.
CDC estimates that between about 7,880 and 16,460 2009 H1N1-related deaths occurred between April and December 12, 2009. The mid-level in this range is about 11,160 2009 H1N1-related deaths..."
"...Updated Estimates from April – December 12, 2009
Using the same methodology CDC has updated the estimates to include the time period from April through December 12, 2009.
CDC estimates that between 39 million and 80 million cases of 2009 H1N1 occurred between April and December 12, 2009. The mid-level in this range is about 55 million people infected with 2009 H1N1.
CDC estimates that between about 173,000 and 362,000 2009 H1N1-related hospitalizations occurred between April and December 12, 2009. The mid-level in this range is about 246,000 H1N1-related hospitalizations.
CDC estimates that between about 7,880 and 16,460 2009 H1N1-related deaths occurred between April and December 12, 2009. The mid-level in this range is about 11,160 2009 H1N1-related deaths..."
Effectiveness of Weight Management Interventions in Children
"The research on weight-management interventions for obese children and adolescents has improved in terms of quality and quantity in the past several years. Current research suggests that behavioral interventions are probably safe in children aged 4 to 18 years and can be effective, particularly moderate- to high-intensity comprehensive programs. Combined behavioral-pharmacologic interventions may be useful for obese adolescents, particularly if research confirms that weight loss can be maintained after pharmacologic treatment ends.
The research we reviewed is generally consistent with a recently proposed model of a stepped-care approach to weight-management treatments that increases intensity (and treatment-associated risk) according to degree of excess weight, age/maturation, health risks, and motivation.4,6 This stepped-care model, has been recommended by the Expert Committee (which was convened by the American Medical Association and co-funded in collaboration with the Department of Health and Human Services' Health Resources and Services Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC]). Approaches range from simple preventive messages aimed at younger children and those who are not overweight, to weight-management interventions that increase in intensity as the child becomes more obese or has more weight-related health problems."
"The research on weight-management interventions for obese children and adolescents has improved in terms of quality and quantity in the past several years. Current research suggests that behavioral interventions are probably safe in children aged 4 to 18 years and can be effective, particularly moderate- to high-intensity comprehensive programs. Combined behavioral-pharmacologic interventions may be useful for obese adolescents, particularly if research confirms that weight loss can be maintained after pharmacologic treatment ends.
The research we reviewed is generally consistent with a recently proposed model of a stepped-care approach to weight-management treatments that increases intensity (and treatment-associated risk) according to degree of excess weight, age/maturation, health risks, and motivation.4,6 This stepped-care model, has been recommended by the Expert Committee (which was convened by the American Medical Association and co-funded in collaboration with the Department of Health and Human Services' Health Resources and Services Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC]). Approaches range from simple preventive messages aimed at younger children and those who are not overweight, to weight-management interventions that increase in intensity as the child becomes more obese or has more weight-related health problems."
Saturday, January 16, 2010
ATF PUBLISHES 2009 LIST OF EXPLOSIVE MATERIALS SUBJECT TO LAW
"The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) published a notice in the Federal Register today containing the list of 237 explosive materials that are subject to federal law and implementing regulations.
This list covers not only explosives, but also blasting agents and detonators, all of which are defined as explosive materials in the United States Code chapter regulating the importation, manufacture, distribution, receipt, and storage of explosive materials. The Department of Justice must publish and revise the explosives list annually, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 841.
The 2009 list does not contain any new terms. However, ammonium perchlorate composite propellant (APCP) has been removed. As a result of a court decision in March 2009, APCP is no longer regulated under federal explosive laws.
The list is comprehensive, but is not all-inclusive. Therefore, an explosive material may not be on the list but may still be within the coverage of the law if it meets the statutory definitions. Some of the explosive materials on the list include: dynamite, black powder, pellet powder, safety fuses, squibs, detonating cord, display fireworks, igniter cord, and igniters..."
View the full list.
"The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) published a notice in the Federal Register today containing the list of 237 explosive materials that are subject to federal law and implementing regulations.
This list covers not only explosives, but also blasting agents and detonators, all of which are defined as explosive materials in the United States Code chapter regulating the importation, manufacture, distribution, receipt, and storage of explosive materials. The Department of Justice must publish and revise the explosives list annually, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 841.
The 2009 list does not contain any new terms. However, ammonium perchlorate composite propellant (APCP) has been removed. As a result of a court decision in March 2009, APCP is no longer regulated under federal explosive laws.
The list is comprehensive, but is not all-inclusive. Therefore, an explosive material may not be on the list but may still be within the coverage of the law if it meets the statutory definitions. Some of the explosive materials on the list include: dynamite, black powder, pellet powder, safety fuses, squibs, detonating cord, display fireworks, igniter cord, and igniters..."
View the full list.
New Tax Guide Features Recovery Tax Breaks; Helps People Save on their 2009 Taxes
"Taxpayers can get the most out of new recovery tax breaks and get a jump on preparing their 2009 federal income tax returns by consulting a newly revised comprehensive tax guide now available on IRS.gov.
Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax, features details on taking advantage of new tax-saving opportunities, such as the making work pay credit for most workers, American opportunity credit for parents and college students, energy credits for homeowners going green, first-time homebuyer credit, sales or excise tax deduction for new car buyers, and the expanded child tax credit and earned income tax credit for low- and moderate-income workers. This useful 308-page guide also provides more than 6,000 interactive links to help taxpayers quickly get answers to their questions.
Publication 17 has been published annually by the IRS for more than 65 years and has been available on the IRS Web site since 1996. As in prior years, this publication is packed with basic tax-filing information and tips on what income to report and how to report it, figuring capital gains and losses, claiming dependents, choosing the standard deduction versus itemizing deductions, and using IRAs to save for retirement.
Those who do not have access to the Internet can call 1-800-TAX-FORM (829-3676) to request a free copy from the IRS. Printed copies will be available in January 2010.
Besides Publication 17, IRS.gov offers many other helpful resources for those doing year-end tax planning. Many 2009 forms are already posted, and updated versions of other forms, instructions and publications are being posted almost every day. Forms already available include Form 1040, short Forms 1040A and 1040EZ, Schedule A for itemizing deductions, new Schedule L for those increasing their standard deduction by real-estate taxes paid, sales or excise taxes on new car purchases or a net disaster loss, and new Schedule M for claiming the making work pay credit.
In addition, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 Information Center features a variety of recovery-related videos, podcasts, tax tips and answers to frequently-asked questions
"Taxpayers can get the most out of new recovery tax breaks and get a jump on preparing their 2009 federal income tax returns by consulting a newly revised comprehensive tax guide now available on IRS.gov.
Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax, features details on taking advantage of new tax-saving opportunities, such as the making work pay credit for most workers, American opportunity credit for parents and college students, energy credits for homeowners going green, first-time homebuyer credit, sales or excise tax deduction for new car buyers, and the expanded child tax credit and earned income tax credit for low- and moderate-income workers. This useful 308-page guide also provides more than 6,000 interactive links to help taxpayers quickly get answers to their questions.
Publication 17 has been published annually by the IRS for more than 65 years and has been available on the IRS Web site since 1996. As in prior years, this publication is packed with basic tax-filing information and tips on what income to report and how to report it, figuring capital gains and losses, claiming dependents, choosing the standard deduction versus itemizing deductions, and using IRAs to save for retirement.
Those who do not have access to the Internet can call 1-800-TAX-FORM (829-3676) to request a free copy from the IRS. Printed copies will be available in January 2010.
Besides Publication 17, IRS.gov offers many other helpful resources for those doing year-end tax planning. Many 2009 forms are already posted, and updated versions of other forms, instructions and publications are being posted almost every day. Forms already available include Form 1040, short Forms 1040A and 1040EZ, Schedule A for itemizing deductions, new Schedule L for those increasing their standard deduction by real-estate taxes paid, sales or excise taxes on new car purchases or a net disaster loss, and new Schedule M for claiming the making work pay credit.
In addition, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 Information Center features a variety of recovery-related videos, podcasts, tax tips and answers to frequently-asked questions
Crime Against People With Disabilities, 2007
"Presents the first findings about nonfatal violent and property crime experienced by persons with disabilities, based on the National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS). The report includes data on nonfatal violent victimization (rape/sexual assault, robbery, aggravated and simple assault) and property crime (burglary, motor vehicle theft, theft) against persons with disabilities in 2007. It compares the victimization experience of persons with and without disabilities, using population estimates based on the Census Bureau’s American Community Survey (ACS). Data are presented on victim and crime characteristics of persons with and without disabilities, including age, race and gender distribution; offender weapon use; victim injuries; and reporting to the police.
Highlights include the following:
Persons with disabilities were victims of about 47,000 rapes, 79,000 robberies, 114,000 aggravated assaults, and 476,000 simple assaults.
Age-adjusted rate of nonfatal violent crime against persons with disabilities was 1.5 times higher than the rate for persons without disabilities.
Females with a disability had a higher victimization rate than males with a disability; males had a higher rate than females among those without a disability..."
"Presents the first findings about nonfatal violent and property crime experienced by persons with disabilities, based on the National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS). The report includes data on nonfatal violent victimization (rape/sexual assault, robbery, aggravated and simple assault) and property crime (burglary, motor vehicle theft, theft) against persons with disabilities in 2007. It compares the victimization experience of persons with and without disabilities, using population estimates based on the Census Bureau’s American Community Survey (ACS). Data are presented on victim and crime characteristics of persons with and without disabilities, including age, race and gender distribution; offender weapon use; victim injuries; and reporting to the police.
Highlights include the following:
Persons with disabilities were victims of about 47,000 rapes, 79,000 robberies, 114,000 aggravated assaults, and 476,000 simple assaults.
Age-adjusted rate of nonfatal violent crime against persons with disabilities was 1.5 times higher than the rate for persons without disabilities.
Females with a disability had a higher victimization rate than males with a disability; males had a higher rate than females among those without a disability..."
Recommended Immunization Schedules for Persons Aged 0 Through 18 Years --- United States, 2010
"The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) annually publishes an immunization schedule for persons aged 0 through 18 years that summarizes recommendations for currently licensed vaccines for children aged 18 years and younger and includes recommendations in effect as of December 15, 2009. Changes to the previous schedule (1) include the following:
The statement concerning use of combination vaccines in the introductory paragraph has been changed to reflect the revised ACIP recommendation on this issue (2).
The last dose in the inactivated poliovirus vaccine series is now recommended to be administered on or after the fourth birthday and at least 6 months after the previous dose. In addition, if 4 doses are administered before age 4 years, an additional (fifth) dose should be administered at age 4 through 6 years (3).
The hepatitis A footnote has been revised to allow vaccination of children older than 23 months for whom immunity against hepatitis A is desired.
Revaccination with meningococcal conjugate vaccine is now recommended for children who remain at increased risk for meningococcal disease after 3 years (if the first dose was administered at age 2 through 6 years), or after 5 years (if the first dose was administered at age 7 years or older) (4).
Footnotes for human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine have been modified to include 1) the availability of and recommendations for bivalent HPV vaccine, and 2) a permissive recommendation for administration of quadrivalent HPV vaccine to males aged 9 through 18 years to reduce the likelihood of acquiring genital warts (5)..."
"The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) annually publishes an immunization schedule for persons aged 0 through 18 years that summarizes recommendations for currently licensed vaccines for children aged 18 years and younger and includes recommendations in effect as of December 15, 2009. Changes to the previous schedule (1) include the following:
The statement concerning use of combination vaccines in the introductory paragraph has been changed to reflect the revised ACIP recommendation on this issue (2).
The last dose in the inactivated poliovirus vaccine series is now recommended to be administered on or after the fourth birthday and at least 6 months after the previous dose. In addition, if 4 doses are administered before age 4 years, an additional (fifth) dose should be administered at age 4 through 6 years (3).
The hepatitis A footnote has been revised to allow vaccination of children older than 23 months for whom immunity against hepatitis A is desired.
Revaccination with meningococcal conjugate vaccine is now recommended for children who remain at increased risk for meningococcal disease after 3 years (if the first dose was administered at age 2 through 6 years), or after 5 years (if the first dose was administered at age 7 years or older) (4).
Footnotes for human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine have been modified to include 1) the availability of and recommendations for bivalent HPV vaccine, and 2) a permissive recommendation for administration of quadrivalent HPV vaccine to males aged 9 through 18 years to reduce the likelihood of acquiring genital warts (5)..."
USDA Releases 2008 Annual Summary for Pesticide Data Program
" Jan. 11, 2010 -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Marketing Service today released the Pesticide Data Program Annual Summary, Calendar Year 2008, on the Internet. The data collected through this program provide the most comprehensive database available on actual levels of pesticide residues found in the U.S. food supply.
The Pesticide Data Program is a partnership with cooperating state agencies that are responsible for sample collection and analysis. The following 12 states participated in the program during 2008: California, Colorado, Florida, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New York, Ohio, Texas, Washington and Wisconsin..."
" Jan. 11, 2010 -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Marketing Service today released the Pesticide Data Program Annual Summary, Calendar Year 2008, on the Internet. The data collected through this program provide the most comprehensive database available on actual levels of pesticide residues found in the U.S. food supply.
The Pesticide Data Program is a partnership with cooperating state agencies that are responsible for sample collection and analysis. The following 12 states participated in the program during 2008: California, Colorado, Florida, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New York, Ohio, Texas, Washington and Wisconsin..."
OPEC Oil Export Revenues
"ased on projections from the EIA January 2010 Short-Term Energy Outlook (STEO), members of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) could earn $767 billion of net oil export revenues in 2010 and $833 billion in 2011. Last year, OPEC earned $573 billion in net oil export revenues, a 41 percent decrease from 2008. Saudi Arabia earned the largest share of these earnings, $154 billion, representing 27 percent of total OPEC revenues. On a per-capita basis, OPEC net oil export earning reached $1,553 in 2009, a 42 percent decrease from 2008..."
"ased on projections from the EIA January 2010 Short-Term Energy Outlook (STEO), members of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) could earn $767 billion of net oil export revenues in 2010 and $833 billion in 2011. Last year, OPEC earned $573 billion in net oil export revenues, a 41 percent decrease from 2008. Saudi Arabia earned the largest share of these earnings, $154 billion, representing 27 percent of total OPEC revenues. On a per-capita basis, OPEC net oil export earning reached $1,553 in 2009, a 42 percent decrease from 2008..."
New Federal Reserve Rules on Credit Card Practices
"The Federal Reserve Board on Tuesday approved a final rule amending Regulation Z (Truth in Lending) to protect consumers who use credit cards from a number of costly practices. Credit card issuers must comply with most aspects of the rule beginning on February 22.
"This rule marks an important milestone in the Federal Reserve's efforts to ensure that consumers who rely on credit cards are treated fairly," said Federal Reserve Governor Elizabeth A. Duke. "The rule bans several harmful practices and requires greater transparency in the disclosure of the terms and conditions of credit card accounts."
Among other things, the rule will:
Protect consumers from unexpected increases in credit card interest rates by generally prohibiting increases in a rate during the first year after an account is opened and increases in a rate that applies to an existing credit card balance.
Prohibit creditors from issuing a credit card to a consumer who is younger than the age of 21 unless the consumer has the ability to make the required payments or obtains the signature of a parent or other cosigner with the ability to do so.
Require creditors to obtain a consumer's consent before charging fees for transactions that exceed the credit limit.
Limit the high fees associated with subprime credit cards.
Ban creditors from using the "two-cycle" billing method to impose interest charges.
Prohibit creditors from allocating payments in ways that maximize interest charges.
In December 2008, the Federal Reserve adopted final regulations prohibiting unfair credit card practices and improving the disclosures consumers receive in connection with credit card accounts. This rule amends aspects of those regulations to implement provisions of the Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosure Act of 2009 (Credit Card Act), which was enacted in May 2009..."
"The Federal Reserve Board on Tuesday approved a final rule amending Regulation Z (Truth in Lending) to protect consumers who use credit cards from a number of costly practices. Credit card issuers must comply with most aspects of the rule beginning on February 22.
"This rule marks an important milestone in the Federal Reserve's efforts to ensure that consumers who rely on credit cards are treated fairly," said Federal Reserve Governor Elizabeth A. Duke. "The rule bans several harmful practices and requires greater transparency in the disclosure of the terms and conditions of credit card accounts."
Among other things, the rule will:
Protect consumers from unexpected increases in credit card interest rates by generally prohibiting increases in a rate during the first year after an account is opened and increases in a rate that applies to an existing credit card balance.
Prohibit creditors from issuing a credit card to a consumer who is younger than the age of 21 unless the consumer has the ability to make the required payments or obtains the signature of a parent or other cosigner with the ability to do so.
Require creditors to obtain a consumer's consent before charging fees for transactions that exceed the credit limit.
Limit the high fees associated with subprime credit cards.
Ban creditors from using the "two-cycle" billing method to impose interest charges.
Prohibit creditors from allocating payments in ways that maximize interest charges.
In December 2008, the Federal Reserve adopted final regulations prohibiting unfair credit card practices and improving the disclosures consumers receive in connection with credit card accounts. This rule amends aspects of those regulations to implement provisions of the Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosure Act of 2009 (Credit Card Act), which was enacted in May 2009..."
Policies for Increasing Economic Growth and Employment in 2010 and 2011
"The number of jobs in the United States has declined almost every month since December
2007. Nearly all professional forecasters believe that the economy has begun to recover
from the recent recession, but many also predict that the pace of the recovery will be slow and
that unemployment will remain high for several years.
At the request of the Chairman of the Senate Budget Committee, the Congressional Budget
Office (CBO) has examined the potential role and efficacy of fiscal policy options in increasing
economic growth and employment, particularly over the next two years. This paper
updates and expands upon a January 2008 CBO analysis, Options for Responding to Short-
Term Economic Weakness, and a January 2009 CBO testimony, The State of the Economy and
Issues in Developing an Effective Policy Response..."
"The number of jobs in the United States has declined almost every month since December
2007. Nearly all professional forecasters believe that the economy has begun to recover
from the recent recession, but many also predict that the pace of the recovery will be slow and
that unemployment will remain high for several years.
At the request of the Chairman of the Senate Budget Committee, the Congressional Budget
Office (CBO) has examined the potential role and efficacy of fiscal policy options in increasing
economic growth and employment, particularly over the next two years. This paper
updates and expands upon a January 2008 CBO analysis, Options for Responding to Short-
Term Economic Weakness, and a January 2009 CBO testimony, The State of the Economy and
Issues in Developing an Effective Policy Response..."
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
National Radon Action Month, January 2010
"EPA has designated January as National Radon Action Month. Learn more about the national effort to take action against radon."
"EPA has designated January as National Radon Action Month. Learn more about the national effort to take action against radon."
Sexual Victimization In Juvenile Facilities Reported By Youth, 2008-09
"Presents data from the 2008-09 National Survey of Youth in Custody (NSYC), conducted in 195 juvenile confinement facilities between June 2008 and April 2009, with a sample of over 9,000 adjudicated youth. The report provides national-level and facility-level estimates of sexual victimization by type of activity, including youth-on-youth sexual contact, staff sexual misconduct, and level of coercion. It also includes an analysis of the experience of sexual victimization, characteristics of youth most at risk to victimization, where the incidents occur, time of day, characteristics of perpetrators, and nature of the injuries. Finally, it includes estimates of the sampling error for selected measures of sexual victimization and summary characteristics of victims and incidents. The report and appendix tables provide a listing of results for sampled state and large locally or privately operated facilities, as required under the Prison Rape Elimination Act of 2003 (P.L. 108-79). Facilities are listed alphabetically by state with estimated prevalence rates of sexual victimization as reported by youths during a personal interview and based on activity in the 12 months prior to the interview or since admission to the facility, if shorter.
Highlights include the following:
This report presents findings from the first National Survey of Youth in Custody (NSYC), representing 26,550 adjudicated youth held nationwide in state operated and large locally or privately operated juvenile facilities. Overall, 91% of youth in these facilities were male; 9% were female.
About 12% of youth in state juvenile facilities and large non-state facilities (representing 3,220 youth nationwide) reported experiencing one or more incidents of sexual victimization by another youth or facility staff in the past 12 months or since admission, if less than 12 months.
About 2.6% of youth (700 nationwide) reported an incident involving another youth and 10.3% reported an incident involving staff..."
"Presents data from the 2008-09 National Survey of Youth in Custody (NSYC), conducted in 195 juvenile confinement facilities between June 2008 and April 2009, with a sample of over 9,000 adjudicated youth. The report provides national-level and facility-level estimates of sexual victimization by type of activity, including youth-on-youth sexual contact, staff sexual misconduct, and level of coercion. It also includes an analysis of the experience of sexual victimization, characteristics of youth most at risk to victimization, where the incidents occur, time of day, characteristics of perpetrators, and nature of the injuries. Finally, it includes estimates of the sampling error for selected measures of sexual victimization and summary characteristics of victims and incidents. The report and appendix tables provide a listing of results for sampled state and large locally or privately operated facilities, as required under the Prison Rape Elimination Act of 2003 (P.L. 108-79). Facilities are listed alphabetically by state with estimated prevalence rates of sexual victimization as reported by youths during a personal interview and based on activity in the 12 months prior to the interview or since admission to the facility, if shorter.
Highlights include the following:
This report presents findings from the first National Survey of Youth in Custody (NSYC), representing 26,550 adjudicated youth held nationwide in state operated and large locally or privately operated juvenile facilities. Overall, 91% of youth in these facilities were male; 9% were female.
About 12% of youth in state juvenile facilities and large non-state facilities (representing 3,220 youth nationwide) reported experiencing one or more incidents of sexual victimization by another youth or facility staff in the past 12 months or since admission, if less than 12 months.
About 2.6% of youth (700 nationwide) reported an incident involving another youth and 10.3% reported an incident involving staff..."
Patient Protection and Affordable Act "Bronze" Health Insurance Coverage
Letter from Congressional Budget Office Director Douglass W. Elmendorf to Senator Olympic Snow.
"In late November, the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) and the staff of
the Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT) released an analysis of average
premiums for health insurance under the Patient Protection and Affordable
Care Act (PPACA) as introduced.1 That analysis compared the estimates of
average premiums in 2016 under the proposal to those that would prevail
under current law and distinguished the effects among the markets for
individually purchased (nongroup) coverage, for small-group coverage, and
for large-group coverage.
This letter responds to your request for additional information about
expected premiums under that proposal for policies that would meet the
minimum requirements necessary to avoid paying a penalty for not having
insurance. As a rule, individuals would be required to have a policy
covering the “essential benefits” specified in the legislation and having an
actuarial value of at least 60 percent in order to avoid such a penalty. (A
plan’s actuarial value is the share of costs for covered services that it would
pay, on average, with a broadly representative group of people enrolled.)
That minimum level of coverage is designated as a “Bronze” plan..."
Letter from Congressional Budget Office Director Douglass W. Elmendorf to Senator Olympic Snow.
"In late November, the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) and the staff of
the Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT) released an analysis of average
premiums for health insurance under the Patient Protection and Affordable
Care Act (PPACA) as introduced.1 That analysis compared the estimates of
average premiums in 2016 under the proposal to those that would prevail
under current law and distinguished the effects among the markets for
individually purchased (nongroup) coverage, for small-group coverage, and
for large-group coverage.
This letter responds to your request for additional information about
expected premiums under that proposal for policies that would meet the
minimum requirements necessary to avoid paying a penalty for not having
insurance. As a rule, individuals would be required to have a policy
covering the “essential benefits” specified in the legislation and having an
actuarial value of at least 60 percent in order to avoid such a penalty. (A
plan’s actuarial value is the share of costs for covered services that it would
pay, on average, with a broadly representative group of people enrolled.)
That minimum level of coverage is designated as a “Bronze” plan..."
Monday, January 11, 2010
The Google Library Project: Is Digitization for Purposes of Online Indexing Fair Use Under
Copyright Law?
"The Google Book Search Library Project, announced in December 2004, raised important
questions about infringing reproduction and fair use under copyright law. Google planned to
digitize, index, and display “snippets” of print books in the collections of five major libraries
without the permission of the books’ copyright holders, if any. Authors and publishers owning
copyrights to these books sued Google in September and October 2005, seeking to enjoin and
recover damages for Google’s alleged infringement of their exclusive rights to reproduce and
publicly display their works. Google and proponents of its Library Project disputed these
allegations. They essentially contended that Google’s proposed uses were not infringing because
Google allowed rights holders to “opt out” of having their books digitized or indexed. They also
argued that, even if Google’s proposed uses were infringing, they constituted fair uses under
copyright law..."
Copyright Law?
"The Google Book Search Library Project, announced in December 2004, raised important
questions about infringing reproduction and fair use under copyright law. Google planned to
digitize, index, and display “snippets” of print books in the collections of five major libraries
without the permission of the books’ copyright holders, if any. Authors and publishers owning
copyrights to these books sued Google in September and October 2005, seeking to enjoin and
recover damages for Google’s alleged infringement of their exclusive rights to reproduce and
publicly display their works. Google and proponents of its Library Project disputed these
allegations. They essentially contended that Google’s proposed uses were not infringing because
Google allowed rights holders to “opt out” of having their books digitized or indexed. They also
argued that, even if Google’s proposed uses were infringing, they constituted fair uses under
copyright law..."
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Privacy: An Overview of Federal Statutes Governing Wiretapping and Electronic Eavesdropping
"This report provides an overview of federal law governing wiretapping and electronic
eavesdropping. It also appends citations to state law in the area and contains a bibliography of legal commentary as well as the text of the Electronic Communications Privacy Act (ECPA) and the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA).
It is a federal crime to wiretap or to use a machine to capture the communications of others without court approval, unless one of the parties has given their prior consent. It is likewise a federal crime to use or disclose any information acquired by illegal wiretapping or electronic eavesdropping. Violations can result in imprisonment for not more than five years; fines up to $250,000 (up to $500,000 for organizations); in civil liability for damages, attorneys’ fees and possibly punitive damages; in disciplinary action against any attorneys involved; and in suppression of any derivative evidence. Congress has created separate but comparable protective
schemes for electronic communications (e.g., e-mail) and against the surreptitious use of telephone call monitoring practices such as pen registers and trap and trace devices..."
"This report provides an overview of federal law governing wiretapping and electronic
eavesdropping. It also appends citations to state law in the area and contains a bibliography of legal commentary as well as the text of the Electronic Communications Privacy Act (ECPA) and the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA).
It is a federal crime to wiretap or to use a machine to capture the communications of others without court approval, unless one of the parties has given their prior consent. It is likewise a federal crime to use or disclose any information acquired by illegal wiretapping or electronic eavesdropping. Violations can result in imprisonment for not more than five years; fines up to $250,000 (up to $500,000 for organizations); in civil liability for damages, attorneys’ fees and possibly punitive damages; in disciplinary action against any attorneys involved; and in suppression of any derivative evidence. Congress has created separate but comparable protective
schemes for electronic communications (e.g., e-mail) and against the surreptitious use of telephone call monitoring practices such as pen registers and trap and trace devices..."
Cars and Climate: What Can EPA Do to Control Greenhouse Gases from Mobile Sources?
"As Congress considers legislation to reduce the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions that contribute to climate change, attention has focused on “cap-and-trade” legislation. Such legislation would set a national cap on GHG emissions, with allowances (permits) to emit limited amounts of the gases distributed or auctioned to affected parties. Recently, there has also been discussion of taxes on greenhouse-gas-emitting substances (generally referred to as a “carbon tax”), which proponents argue would provide greater transparency and a clearer price signal.
Enacting greenhouse gas controls is not simply a choice between cap-and-trade and carbon tax options, however. A third set of options, using the more traditional regulatory approaches of the Clean Air Act (CAA), is available. Unlike a cap-and-trade system or a carbon tax, regulation under the Clean Air Act does not require new Congressional action. The ability to limit GHG missions already exists under various CAA authorities that Congress has enacted, a point underlined by the Supreme Court in an April 2007 decision (Massachusetts v. EPA).
Thus, controlling GHGs could follow a two-track approach, with Congress and the
Administration pursuing new legal authority (for cap-and-trade, carbon tax, or whatever) at the same time that the Administration, through the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), exercises existing authority under the Clean Air Act to begin regulation of greenhouse gas emissions. The Administration has made clear that its preference would be for Congress to address the climate issue through new legislation. Nevertheless, it is moving forward on several fronts to define how the Clean Air Act might be used..."
"As Congress considers legislation to reduce the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions that contribute to climate change, attention has focused on “cap-and-trade” legislation. Such legislation would set a national cap on GHG emissions, with allowances (permits) to emit limited amounts of the gases distributed or auctioned to affected parties. Recently, there has also been discussion of taxes on greenhouse-gas-emitting substances (generally referred to as a “carbon tax”), which proponents argue would provide greater transparency and a clearer price signal.
Enacting greenhouse gas controls is not simply a choice between cap-and-trade and carbon tax options, however. A third set of options, using the more traditional regulatory approaches of the Clean Air Act (CAA), is available. Unlike a cap-and-trade system or a carbon tax, regulation under the Clean Air Act does not require new Congressional action. The ability to limit GHG missions already exists under various CAA authorities that Congress has enacted, a point underlined by the Supreme Court in an April 2007 decision (Massachusetts v. EPA).
Thus, controlling GHGs could follow a two-track approach, with Congress and the
Administration pursuing new legal authority (for cap-and-trade, carbon tax, or whatever) at the same time that the Administration, through the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), exercises existing authority under the Clean Air Act to begin regulation of greenhouse gas emissions. The Administration has made clear that its preference would be for Congress to address the climate issue through new legislation. Nevertheless, it is moving forward on several fronts to define how the Clean Air Act might be used..."
Who Regulates Whom? An Overview of U.S. Financial Supervision
"Federal financial regulation in the United States has evolved through a series of piecemeal responses to developments and crises in financial markets. This report provides an overview of current U.S. financial regulation: which agencies are responsible for which institutions and markets, and what kinds of authority they have. There are two traditional components to U.S. banking regulation: deposit insurance and adequate capital. Commercial banks accept a quid pro quo that was adopted in response to widespread bank failures during the 1930s. Through deposit insurance, the federal government provides a safety net for some banking operations and in return the banks that are exposed to depositor runs accept federal regulation of their operations, including the amount of risk they may incur. Since the 1860s, federal banking regulation has sought to prevent excessive risk taking by banks that
might seek to make extra profit by reducing their capital reserves—at the time called “wildcat” banks. There are five federal bank regulators, each supervising different (and often overlapping) sets of depository institutions.
Federal securities regulation is based on the principle of disclosure, rather than direct regulation. Firms that sell securities to the public must register with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), but the agency has no authority to prevent excessive risk taking. SEC registration in no way implies that an investment is safe, only that the risks have been fully disclosed. The SEC also registers several classes of securities market participants and firms, but relies more on industry self-regulation than do the banking agencies. Derivatives trading is supervised by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), which oversees trading on the futures exchanges, which have self-regulatory responsibilities as well. There is also a large
over-the-counter (off-exchange) derivatives market that is largely unregulated..."
"Federal financial regulation in the United States has evolved through a series of piecemeal responses to developments and crises in financial markets. This report provides an overview of current U.S. financial regulation: which agencies are responsible for which institutions and markets, and what kinds of authority they have. There are two traditional components to U.S. banking regulation: deposit insurance and adequate capital. Commercial banks accept a quid pro quo that was adopted in response to widespread bank failures during the 1930s. Through deposit insurance, the federal government provides a safety net for some banking operations and in return the banks that are exposed to depositor runs accept federal regulation of their operations, including the amount of risk they may incur. Since the 1860s, federal banking regulation has sought to prevent excessive risk taking by banks that
might seek to make extra profit by reducing their capital reserves—at the time called “wildcat” banks. There are five federal bank regulators, each supervising different (and often overlapping) sets of depository institutions.
Federal securities regulation is based on the principle of disclosure, rather than direct regulation. Firms that sell securities to the public must register with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), but the agency has no authority to prevent excessive risk taking. SEC registration in no way implies that an investment is safe, only that the risks have been fully disclosed. The SEC also registers several classes of securities market participants and firms, but relies more on industry self-regulation than do the banking agencies. Derivatives trading is supervised by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), which oversees trading on the futures exchanges, which have self-regulatory responsibilities as well. There is also a large
over-the-counter (off-exchange) derivatives market that is largely unregulated..."
Higher Standards to Boost Protections and Service for Taxpayers,Increase Confidence in System, Yield Greater Compliance with Tax Law
"R-2010-1, Jan. 4, 2010
WASHINGTON –– The Internal Revenue Service kicked off the 2010 tax filing season today by issuing the results of a landmark six-month study that proposes new registration, testing and continuing education of tax return preparers. With more than 80 percent of American households using a tax preparer or tax software to help them prepare and file their taxes, higher standards for the tax preparer community will significantly enhance protections and service for taxpayers, increase confidence in the tax system and result in greater compliance with tax laws over the long term.
To bring immediate help to taxpayers this filing season, the IRS also announced a sweeping new effort to reach tax return preparers with enforcement and education. As part of the outreach effort, the IRS is providing tips to taxpayers to ensure they are working with a reputable tax return preparer..."
"R-2010-1, Jan. 4, 2010
WASHINGTON –– The Internal Revenue Service kicked off the 2010 tax filing season today by issuing the results of a landmark six-month study that proposes new registration, testing and continuing education of tax return preparers. With more than 80 percent of American households using a tax preparer or tax software to help them prepare and file their taxes, higher standards for the tax preparer community will significantly enhance protections and service for taxpayers, increase confidence in the tax system and result in greater compliance with tax laws over the long term.
To bring immediate help to taxpayers this filing season, the IRS also announced a sweeping new effort to reach tax return preparers with enforcement and education. As part of the outreach effort, the IRS is providing tips to taxpayers to ensure they are working with a reputable tax return preparer..."
FTC Approves Two Reports to Congress on the National Do Not Call Registry
"he Federal Trade Commission, as required by The Do-Not-Call Registry Fee Extension Act of 2007, has approved two reports to Congress: a biennial report focusing on the use of the Do Not Call Registry by both consumers and businesses, as well as the impact that new technologies have had on the Registry, and a one-time report on enforcement efforts and consumers’ perceptions of the Registry’s effectiveness.
As detailed in the first report, the Do Not Call Registry now has more than 191 million active registrations, and more than 18 million new phone numbers were registered in Fiscal Year (FY) 2009. During that time, approximately 45,000 sellers, telemarketers, and exempt organizations such as charities subscribed to access the Registry, paying fees totaling more than $15.5 million. In addition, during FY 2009, the FTC implemented a new procedure for tracking disconnected and reassigned phone numbers, which addresses problems that may arise as a result of new telecommunications technologies and the ease of transporting numbers from one telephone service provider to another..."
"he Federal Trade Commission, as required by The Do-Not-Call Registry Fee Extension Act of 2007, has approved two reports to Congress: a biennial report focusing on the use of the Do Not Call Registry by both consumers and businesses, as well as the impact that new technologies have had on the Registry, and a one-time report on enforcement efforts and consumers’ perceptions of the Registry’s effectiveness.
As detailed in the first report, the Do Not Call Registry now has more than 191 million active registrations, and more than 18 million new phone numbers were registered in Fiscal Year (FY) 2009. During that time, approximately 45,000 sellers, telemarketers, and exempt organizations such as charities subscribed to access the Registry, paying fees totaling more than $15.5 million. In addition, during FY 2009, the FTC implemented a new procedure for tracking disconnected and reassigned phone numbers, which addresses problems that may arise as a result of new telecommunications technologies and the ease of transporting numbers from one telephone service provider to another..."
Presidential Report on Radiation Protection Advice: Screening of Humans for
Security Purposes Using Ionizing Radiation Scanning Systems
"This Presidential Report from the National Council on Radiation Protection and
Measurements (NCRP) presents radiation protection advice concerning ionizing
radiation-producing devices that are being evaluated for various uses in screening of
humans for the purpose of security. Chief among the devices being evaluated at the
present time are scanning systems that utilize x rays. This report addresses systems
utilizing ionizing radiation, but also describes briefly some systems under
consideration that utilize nonionizing radiation sources (see Section 3.4).
The report stresses that this advice is limited to radiation matters such as the
levels of radiation exposure encountered, the radiation risk associated with ionizing
radiation in general (as well as the risk associated with the actual levels encountered), and application of NCRP radiation protection principles to this radiation source. The overall justification for use of such devices for specific security applications and what constitutes a net benefit to society are broader questions that are outside of NCRP ’s role as defined by its Congressional charter..."
Security Purposes Using Ionizing Radiation Scanning Systems
"This Presidential Report from the National Council on Radiation Protection and
Measurements (NCRP) presents radiation protection advice concerning ionizing
radiation-producing devices that are being evaluated for various uses in screening of
humans for the purpose of security. Chief among the devices being evaluated at the
present time are scanning systems that utilize x rays. This report addresses systems
utilizing ionizing radiation, but also describes briefly some systems under
consideration that utilize nonionizing radiation sources (see Section 3.4).
The report stresses that this advice is limited to radiation matters such as the
levels of radiation exposure encountered, the radiation risk associated with ionizing
radiation in general (as well as the risk associated with the actual levels encountered), and application of NCRP radiation protection principles to this radiation source. The overall justification for use of such devices for specific security applications and what constitutes a net benefit to society are broader questions that are outside of NCRP ’s role as defined by its Congressional charter..."
International Terrorism and Transnational Crime: Security Threats, U.S. Policy, and
Considerations for Congress
"This report provides a primer on the confluence of transnational terrorist and criminal groups and related activities abroad. It evaluates possible motivations and disincentives for cooperation between terrorist and criminal organizations, variations in the scope of crime-terrorism links, and the types of criminal activities—fundraising, material and logistics support, and exploitation of
corruption and gaps in the rule of law—used by terrorist organizations to sustain operations. This report also discusses several international case studies to illustrate the range of crime-terrorism convergence and non-convergence, including Dawood Ibrahim’s D-Company; the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC); the 2004 Madrid bombers; the Taliban; Hezbollah; Al Qaeda; the 2005 London bombers; Al-Shabaab; as well as known or alleged crime-terrorism facilitators such as Viktor Bout, Monzer Al Kasser, and Abu Ghadiyah. Policy considerations discussed in this report include possible tensions between counterterrorism and anti-crime policy
objectives, implications for U.S. foreign aid, gaps in human intelligence and analysis, the value of financial intelligence in combating the crime-terrorism nexus, impact of digital and physical safe havens and ungoverned spaces, implications for nuclear proliferation, and effects of crime terrorism links in conflict and post-conflict zones. Unless otherwise noted, this report does not address potential crime-terrorism links in the domestic or border environment..."
Considerations for Congress
"This report provides a primer on the confluence of transnational terrorist and criminal groups and related activities abroad. It evaluates possible motivations and disincentives for cooperation between terrorist and criminal organizations, variations in the scope of crime-terrorism links, and the types of criminal activities—fundraising, material and logistics support, and exploitation of
corruption and gaps in the rule of law—used by terrorist organizations to sustain operations. This report also discusses several international case studies to illustrate the range of crime-terrorism convergence and non-convergence, including Dawood Ibrahim’s D-Company; the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC); the 2004 Madrid bombers; the Taliban; Hezbollah; Al Qaeda; the 2005 London bombers; Al-Shabaab; as well as known or alleged crime-terrorism facilitators such as Viktor Bout, Monzer Al Kasser, and Abu Ghadiyah. Policy considerations discussed in this report include possible tensions between counterterrorism and anti-crime policy
objectives, implications for U.S. foreign aid, gaps in human intelligence and analysis, the value of financial intelligence in combating the crime-terrorism nexus, impact of digital and physical safe havens and ungoverned spaces, implications for nuclear proliferation, and effects of crime terrorism links in conflict and post-conflict zones. Unless otherwise noted, this report does not address potential crime-terrorism links in the domestic or border environment..."
Afghanistan: Post-Taliban Governance, Security, and U.S. Policy
"Upon taking office, the Obama Administration faced a deteriorating security environment in Afghanistan, despite a steady increase in U.S. forces there in recent years. Signs of deterioration have included an expanded area in which militants are operating, increasing numbers of civilian and military deaths, Afghan and international disillusionment with corruption in the government of Afghan President Hamid Karzai, and the ease of infiltration of Taliban militants from safe havens in Pakistan. Building on assessments completed in the latter days of the Bush Administration, the Obama Administration conducted a “strategic review,” the results of which were announced on March 27, 2009. The outcome of the review leaned toward those in the Administration who believe that adding combat troops is less crucial than building governance. As part of that review, the President did announce an increase of 21,000 U.S. troops, which arrived by November 2009 and brought U.S. force levels to about 68,000, in partnership with about 39,000 international forces from 42 other nations, and about 190,000 Afghan security forces..."
"Upon taking office, the Obama Administration faced a deteriorating security environment in Afghanistan, despite a steady increase in U.S. forces there in recent years. Signs of deterioration have included an expanded area in which militants are operating, increasing numbers of civilian and military deaths, Afghan and international disillusionment with corruption in the government of Afghan President Hamid Karzai, and the ease of infiltration of Taliban militants from safe havens in Pakistan. Building on assessments completed in the latter days of the Bush Administration, the Obama Administration conducted a “strategic review,” the results of which were announced on March 27, 2009. The outcome of the review leaned toward those in the Administration who believe that adding combat troops is less crucial than building governance. As part of that review, the President did announce an increase of 21,000 U.S. troops, which arrived by November 2009 and brought U.S. force levels to about 68,000, in partnership with about 39,000 international forces from 42 other nations, and about 190,000 Afghan security forces..."
Proposed Revisions to National Standards for Ground-Level Ozone
"January 6, 2010 – The Environmental Protection Agency has proposed to strengthen the national ambient air quality standards for ground-level ozone. Ground-level ozone is a primary component of smog. The proposed revisions are based on scientific evidence about ozone and its effects on people and sensitive trees and plants. EPA will accept comments for 60 days following publication of the proposal in the Federal Register."
"January 6, 2010 – The Environmental Protection Agency has proposed to strengthen the national ambient air quality standards for ground-level ozone. Ground-level ozone is a primary component of smog. The proposed revisions are based on scientific evidence about ozone and its effects on people and sensitive trees and plants. EPA will accept comments for 60 days following publication of the proposal in the Federal Register."
Thursday, January 7, 2010
CDC's Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity and Obesity
"The Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity (DNPAO) is working to reduce obesity and obesity-related conditions through state programs, technical assistance and training, leadership, surveillance and research, intervention development and evaluation, translation of practice-based evidence and research findings, and partnership development..."
"The Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity (DNPAO) is working to reduce obesity and obesity-related conditions through state programs, technical assistance and training, leadership, surveillance and research, intervention development and evaluation, translation of practice-based evidence and research findings, and partnership development..."
National Center for Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities
"The mission of the CDC’s National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities (NCBDDD) is to promote the health of babies, children and adults and enhance the potential for full, productive living. To achieve its mission, our Center works to:
* Identify the causes of birth defects and developmental disabilities;
* Help children to develop and reach their full potential; and
* Promote health and well-being among people of all ages with disabilities, including blood disorders.
We seek to accomplish these goals through research, partnerships, and prevention and education programs..."
"The mission of the CDC’s National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities (NCBDDD) is to promote the health of babies, children and adults and enhance the potential for full, productive living. To achieve its mission, our Center works to:
* Identify the causes of birth defects and developmental disabilities;
* Help children to develop and reach their full potential; and
* Promote health and well-being among people of all ages with disabilities, including blood disorders.
We seek to accomplish these goals through research, partnerships, and prevention and education programs..."
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