Executive Summaries of All CRS Reports

Wednesday, April 30, 2014

Mountaintop Mining: Background on Current Controversies – RS21421

Mountaintop removal mining involves removing the top of a mountain in ord ... http://p.ost.im/8Wwm7A

Navy Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) Program: Background and Issues for Congress – RL33741

A total of 20 Littoral Combat Ships (LCSs) have been funded through FY201 ... http://p.ost.im/8WTeUy

U.S.-Vietnam Economic and Trade Relations: Issues for the 113th Congress – R41550

Since the resumption of trade relations in the 1990s, Vietnam rapidly has ... http://p.ost.im/87gKY5

Navy Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) Program: Background and Issues for Congress – RL33745

The Aegis ballistic missile defense (BMD) program, which is carried out b ... http://p.ost.im/8v9nma

Daily Report of CRS Documents 04/30/2014

Wednesday April 30, 2014NEW PRODUCT!!!CRS publishes what they call Sideb ... http://p.ost.im/8v24Xk

Small Business Administration 504/CDC Loan Guaranty Program – R41184

The Small Business Administration (SBA) administers programs to support s ... http://p.ost.im/87G9PP

Afghanistan: Politics, Elections, and Government Performance – RS21922

The capacity, transparency, and legitimacy of Afghan governance are consi ... http://p.ost.im/8vSJpV

Federal Grants to State and Local Governments: An Historical Perspective on Contemporary Issues – R40638

The federal government is expected to provide state and local governments ... http://p.ost.im/8v65n3

Block Grants: Perspectives and Controversies – R40486

Block grants are a form of grant-in-aid that the federal government uses ... http://p.ost.im/8vcny4

Turkey: Background and U.S. Relations – R41368

Several Turkish domestic and foreign policy issues have significant relev ... http://p.ost.im/8vjYX7

SBA Small Business Investment Company Program – R41456

The Small Business Administration’s (SBA’s) Small Business Investment ... http://p.ost.im/87AB7u

Multiyear Procurement (MYP) and Block Buy Contracting in Defense Acquisition: Background and Issues for Congress – R41909

Multiyear procurement (MYP) and block buy contracting (BBC) are special c ... http://p.ost.im/8vHYDE

Tuesday, April 29, 2014

Social Media in the House of Representatives: Frequently Asked Questions – R43477

Recently, the number of Member offices adopting social media as an offici ... http://p.ost.im/8nyXAj

Obstruction of Justice: An Abridged Overview of Related Federal Criminal Laws – RS22783

Obstruction of justice is the frustration of governmental purposes by vio ... http://p.ost.im/8WPH6T

Social Security: The Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) – 98-35

The windfall elimination provision (WEP) reduces the Social Security bene ... http://p.ost.im/8ntgBd

Overview of Federal Housing Assistance Programs and Policy – RL34591

The federal government has been involved in providing housing assistance ... http://p.ost.im/8nYbT8

Returning to Full Employment: What Do the Indicators Tell Us? – R43476

Until recently, the economy and labor market were experiencing an unusual ... http://p.ost.im/8WBK7f

FY2015 Budget Documents: Internet and GPO Availability – R43475

Every year the President submits a series of volumes to Congress containi ... http://p.ost.im/8WJASB

Internet Domain Names: Background and Policy Issues – 97-868

Navigating the Internet requires using addresses and corresponding names ... http://p.ost.im/87Fc2f

Bolivia: In Brief – R43473

In the last decade, Bolivia has transformed from a country plagued by pol ... http://p.ost.im/8t7UfH

Daily Report of CRS Documents 04/29/2014

Tuesday April 29, 2014 Order ID Title Pages Issue Date Author/Division 97-86 ... http://p.ost.im/8WfaQq

Implementing the Affordable Care Act: Delays, Extensions, and Other Actions Taken by the Administration – R43474

The two federal agencies primarily responsible for administering the priv ... http://p.ost.im/8W9ucF

Congressional Liaison Offices of Selected Federal Agencies – 98-446

This list of about 200 congressional liaison offices is intended to help ... http://p.ost.im/8Wf4kJ

Obstruction of Justice: An Overview of Some of the Federal Statutes That Prohibit Interference with Judicial, Executive, or Legislative Activities – RL34303

Obstruction of justice is the impediment of governmental activities. Ther ... http://p.ost.im/8nyJDs

Monday, April 28, 2014

Summary Cost Data for Health Plans Available in Arizona’s Exchange, 2014: Fact Sheet – R43488

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA, P.L. 111-148, as ame ... http://p.ost.im/8WrKa9

Advance Appropriations, Forward Funding, and Advance Funding: Concepts, Practice, and Budget Process Considerations – R43482

Federal programs that are funded through the annual appropriations proces ... http://p.ost.im/8txAAu

Overview of Health Care Changes in the FY2015 House Budget – R43479

On April 1, 2014, House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan released the ... http://p.ost.im/8W6dTP

Summary Cost Data for Federally-Facilitated Exchanges, 2014 – R43484

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA, P.L. 111-148, as ame ... http://p.ost.im/87L2JK

Summary Cost Data for Health Plans Available in Alaska’s Exchange, 2014: Fact Sheet – R43486

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA, P.L. 111-148, as ame ... http://p.ost.im/8nJRkw

Same-Sex Marriage: A Legal Background After United States v. Windsor – R43481

The issue of same-sex marriage generates debate on both the federal and s ... http://p.ost.im/8nP6Ts

Who Pays for Long-Term Services and Supports? A Fact Sheet – R43483

Long-term services and supports (LTSS) refer to a broad range of health a ... http://p.ost.im/8nPDCc

EPA’s Proposed Wood Stove / Wood Heater Regulations: Frequently Asked Questions – R43489

On January 3, 2014, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released pr ... http://p.ost.im/8nhNDt

Summary Cost Data for Health Plans Available in Alabama’s Exchange, 2014: Fact Sheet – R43485

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA, P.L. 111-148, as ame ... http://p.ost.im/8nsxCm

Summary Cost Data for Health Plans Available in Arkansas’s Exchange, 2014: Fact Sheet – R43487

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA, P.L. 111-148, as ame ... http://p.ost.im/876sS7

Iran-North Korea-Syria Ballistic Missile and Nuclear Cooperation – R43480

Congress has at times expressed concern regarding ballistic missile and n ... http://p.ost.im/8WYQ8D

Daily Report of CRS Documents 04/28/2014

Monday April 28, 2014 Order ID Title Pages Issue Date Author/Division R4 ... http://p.ost.im/8Wbr7b

Friday, April 25, 2014

Navy Force Structure and Shipbuilding Plans: Background and Issues for Congress – RL32665

The Navy’s proposed FY2015 budget requests funding for the procurement ... http://p.ost.im/8n2GYa

Global Security Contingency Fund (GSCF): Summary and Issue Overview – R42641

The FY2012 National Defense Authorization Act (P.L. 112-81), Section 1207 ... http://p.ost.im/8nr52Y

U.S. Foreign Aid to Israel – RL33222

This report provides an overview of U.S. foreign assistance to Israel. It ... http://p.ost.im/8tQmF9

Afghanistan: Post-Taliban Governance, Security, and U.S. Policy – RL30588

Afghan security forces have lead security responsibility throughout the c ... http://p.ost.im/8tWyfr

China Naval Modernization: Implications for U.S. Navy Capabilities — Background and Issues for Congress – RL33153

China is building a modern and regionally powerful Navy with a modest but ... http://p.ost.im/8nSrWa

Funding and Financing Highways and Public Transportation – R42877

Federal surface transportation programs are currently funded primarily th ... http://p.ost.im/8nJ7tP

U.S. Implementation of the Basel Capital Regulatory Framework – R42744

The Basel III international regulatory framework, which was produced in 2 ... http://p.ost.im/8nAReP

Daily Report of CRS Documents 04/25/2014

Friday April 25, 2014 Order ID Title Pages Issue Date Author/Division R4 ... http://p.ost.im/8nSf4h

The Article V Convention to Propose Constitutional Amendments: Contemporary Issues for Congress – R42589

Article V of the U.S. Constitution provides two ways of amending the nati ... http://p.ost.im/8nEdWQ

NAFTA at 20: Overview and Trade Effects – R42965

The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) entered into force on Jan ... http://p.ost.im/8nrQ8F

Maritime Territorial and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) Disputes Involving China: Issues for Congress – R42784

China’s actions for asserting and defending its maritime territorial an ... http://p.ost.im/8nJrEX

Thursday, April 24, 2014

Daily Report of CRS Documents 04/24/2014

Thursday April 24, 2014 Order ID Title Pages Issue Date Author/Division ... http://p.ost.im/8G7VmV

Congress’s Contempt Power and the Enforcement of Congressional Subpoenas: Law, History, Practice, and Procedure – RL34097

Congress’s contempt power is the means by which Congress responds to ce ... http://p.ost.im/8tyb4j

Armed Conflict in Syria:Overview and U.S. Response – RL33487

Fighting continues across Syria, pitting government forces and their fore ... http://p.ost.im/8tMjn7

Military Uniform Procurement: Questions and Answers – RS20550

Military uniforms are procured through the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) ... http://p.ost.im/8tRwhf

Regulation of Clinical Tests: In Vitro Diagnostic (IVD) Devices, Laboratory Developed Tests (LDTs), and Genetic Tests – R43438

In vitro diagnostic (IVD) devices are used in the analysis of human sampl ... http://p.ost.im/8GbDAj

Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA): Gaming on Newly Acquired Lands – RL34325

The Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) (P.L. 100-497) generally prohibit ... http://p.ost.im/8GjCNh

Navy Ford (CVN-78) Class Aircraft Carrier Program: Background and Issues for Congress – RS20643

CVN-78, CVN-79, and CVN-80 are the first three ships in the Navy’s new ... http://p.ost.im/8tMpH6

Selected Legislative Proposals to Reform the Housing Finance System – R43219

The 113th Congress has seen several developments in the effort to reform ... http://p.ost.im/8Gnsnt

Intellectual Property Rights and International Trade – RL34292

This report provides background on intellectual property rights (IPR) and ... http://p.ost.im/8G2BGM

The Proposed Equal Rights Amendment: Contemporary Ratification Issues – R42979

The year 2012 marked the 30th anniversary of the expiration of the propos ... http://p.ost.im/8tJjwb

The Help America Vote Act and Election Administration: Overview and Issues – RS20898

The deadlocked November 2000 presidential election focused national atten ... http://p.ost.im/8tabMg

Wednesday, April 23, 2014

Selected Agency Budget Justifications for FY2015 – R43470

This report provides a convenient listing of online FY2015 agency budget ... http://p.ost.im/8pEeH9

Daily Report of CRS Documents 04/23/2014

Wednesday April 23, 2014 Order ID Title Pages Issue Date Author/Division R43 ... http://p.ost.im/8pALWu

Special Minimum Wages for Workers with Disabilities: Frequently Asked Questions – R43468

The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), as amended, sets the minimum wage fo ... http://p.ost.im/8swGSj

Analysis of S. 2198: Emergency Drought Relief Act of 2014 – R43469

Over the past five years, portions of the country have been gripped with ... http://p.ost.im/8pLkWJ

Section 179 and Bonus Depreciation Expensing Allowances: Current Law, Legislative Proposals in the 113th Congress, and Economic Effects – RL31852

Expensing is the most accelerated form of depreciation for tax purposes. ... http://p.ost.im/8sKp2g

Oman: Reform, Security, and U.S. Policy – RS21534

Prior to the wave of Middle East unrest that began in 2011, the United St ... http://p.ost.im/8phTrW

Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF): Program Overview and Issues – RS22037

In the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) Amendments of 1996, Congress author ... http://p.ost.im/8pRNRv

What’s the Difference? — Comparing U.S. and Chinese Trade Data – RS22640

The size of the U.S. bilateral trade deficit with China has been and cont ... http://p.ost.im/8pDEE9

Navy DDG-51 and DDG-1000 Destroyer Programs: Background and Issues for Congress – RL32109

As part of its proposed FY2015 budget, the Navy is requesting funding for ... http://p.ost.im/8sfupg

Millennium Challenge Corporation – RL32427

The Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) provides economic assistance t ... http://p.ost.im/8sy42n

Tuesday, April 22, 2014

Social Security: Calculation and History of Taxing Benefits – RL32552

Social Security provides monthly cash benefits to retired or disabled wor ... http://p.ost.im/8pV2ja

The New START Treaty: Central Limits and Key Provisions – R41219

The United States and Russia signed the New START Treaty on April 8, 2010 ... http://p.ost.im/8pvsRM

Small Business Management and Technical Assistance Training Programs – R41352

The Small Business Administration (SBA) has provided technical and manage ... http://p.ost.im/8pVnB9

Coast Guard Polar Icebreaker Modernization: Background and Issues for Congress – RL34391

The Coast Guard’s FY2013 budget initiated a new project for the design ... http://p.ost.im/8pTnhe

Retirement and Survivor Annuities for Former Spouses of Federal Employees – RS22856

A former spouse of a federal employee may be entitled to a share of the e ... http://p.ost.im/8pqD5N

Peace Talks in Colombia – R42982

In August 2012, Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos announced that the ... http://p.ost.im/8sRYtK

Waiver Authority Under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) – RS22870

Transportation fuels are required by federal law to contain a minimum amo ... http://p.ost.im/8sSPh4

U.S.-Mexican Security Cooperation: the M̩rida Initiative and Beyond РR41349

Violence perpetrated by drug trafficking organizations and other criminal ... http://p.ost.im/8p83a7

Carcieri v. Salazar: The Secretary of the Interior May Not Acquire Trust Land for the Narragansett Indian Tribe Under 25 U.S.C. § 465 Because That Statute Applies to Tribes “Under Federal Jurisdiction” in 1934 – RL34521

In Carcieri v. Salazar, 555 U.S. 379 (2009), the U.S. Supreme Court ruled ... http://p.ost.im/8pvW87

Navy Ohio Replacement (SSBN[X]) Ballistic Missile Submarine Program: Background and Issues for Congress – R41129

The Navy’s proposed FY2015 budget requests $1,219.3 million for continu ... http://p.ost.im/8pwtSM

Daily Report of CRS Documents 04/22/2014

Tuesday April 22, 2014 Order ID Title Pages Issue Date Author/Division R ... http://p.ost.im/8pc4Y4

Monday, April 21, 2014

Former Presidents: Pensions, Office Allowances, and Other Federal Benefits – RL34631

The Former Presidents Act (FPA; 3 U.S.C. §102 note) charges the General ... http://p.ost.im/8bXgjq

Concurrent Receipt of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Unemployment Insurance (UI): Background and Legislative Proposals in the 113th Congress – R43471

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Unemployment Insurance (U ... http://p.ost.im/8gDStJ

Legislative Actions to Repeal, Defund, or Delay the Affordable Care Act – R43289

Congress is deeply divided over implementation of the Patient Protection ... http://p.ost.im/8gpAU6

Nuclear Cooperation with Other Countries: A Primer – RS22937

In order for the United States to engage in civilian nuclear cooperation ... http://p.ost.im/8bPG8D

The Federal Budget: Overview and Issues for FY2015 and Beyond – R43472

The federal budget is central to Congress’s ability to exercise its “ ... http://p.ost.im/8gWkVp

Federal Aid to State and Local Governments: Select Issues Raised by a Federal Government Shutdown – R43467

At the end of the day on September 30, 2013, appropriations provided unde ... http://p.ost.im/8bxbsQ

Congress’s Contempt Power and the Enforcement of Congressional Subpoenas: A Sketch – RL34114

Congress’s contempt power is the means by which Congress responds to ce ... http://p.ost.im/8qGHBx

Daily Report of CRS Documents 04/21/2014

Monday April 21, 2014 Order ID Title Pages Issue Date Author/Division R4 ... http://p.ost.im/8bN3qV

Campaign Contribution Limits: Selected Questions About McCutcheon and Policy Issues for Congress – R43334

Recently invalidated aggregate limits on federal campaign contributions c ... http://p.ost.im/8gaxL5

Bee Health: Background and Issues for Congress – R43191

Bees, both commercially managed honey bees and wild bees, play an importa ... http://p.ost.im/8pkSfk

What is the Farm Bill? – RS22131

The farm bill is an omnibus, multi-year piece of authorizing legislation ... http://p.ost.im/8bnRe5

Friday, April 18, 2014

The DHS S Directorate: Selected Issues for Congress – R43064

Policy makers generally believe that science and technology can and will ... http://p.ost.im/8bH8tg

Small Business Administration HUBZone Program – R41268

The Small Business Administration (SBA) administers several programs to s ... http://p.ost.im/8bj7ND

Navy Ohio Replacement (SSBN[X]) Ballistic Missile Submarine Program: Background and Issues for Congress – R41129

The Navy’s proposed FY2015 budget requests $1,219.3 million for continu ... http://p.ost.im/8beWmf

Coast Guard Cutter Procurement: Background and Issues for Congress – R42567

The Coast Guard’s program of record (POR) calls for procuring 8 Nationa ... http://p.ost.im/8bRHEt

Dominican Republic: Background and U.S. Relations – R41482

The Dominican Republic, a country of roughly 10.2 million people that sha ... http://p.ost.im/8bpsje

Lebanon: Background and U.S. Policy – R42816

Lebanon’s small geographic size and population belie the important role ... http://p.ost.im/8qKB5L

Daily Report of CRS Documents 04/18/2014

Friday April 18, 2014 Order ID Title Pages Issue Date Author/Division R4 ... http://p.ost.im/8bDP9Q

Chemical Facility Security: Issues and Options for the 113th Congress – R42918

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has statutory authority to regu ... http://p.ost.im/8bUDAD

Multiyear Procurement (MYP) and Block Buy Contracting in Defense Acquisition: Background and Issues for Congress – R41909

Multiyear procurement (MYP) and block buy contracting (BBC) are special c ... http://p.ost.im/8bdB5a

Comparison of Rights in Military Commission Trials and Trials in Federal Criminal Court – R40932

The renewal of military commission proceedings against Khalid Sheik Moham ... http://p.ost.im/8bPKR2

Sugar Program: The Basics – R42535

The sugar program provides a price guarantee to the processors of sugarca ... http://p.ost.im/8bnfXm

Small Business Administration Microloan Program – R41057

The Small Business Administration’s (SBA’s) Microloan program provide ... http://p.ost.im/8qvwhu

Thursday, April 17, 2014

Changes in the Arctic: Background and Issues for Congress – R41153

The diminishment of Arctic sea ice has led to increased human activities ... http://p.ost.im/8qgdtF

Daily Report of CRS Documents 04/17/2014

Thursday April 17, 2014 Order ID Title Pages Issue Date Author/Division ... http://p.ost.im/8VUdM4

U.S.-Taiwan Relationship: Overview of Policy Issues – R41952

The purpose and scope of this CRS report is to provide a succinct overvie ... http://p.ost.im/8qHEJW

Russian Political, Economic, and Security Issues and U.S. Interests – RL33407

Russia made uneven progress in democratization during the 1990s, but this ... http://p.ost.im/8q9gQB

Small Business Administration Trade and Export Promotion Programs – R43155

According to Census data, approximately 1% of small businesses in the Uni ... http://p.ost.im/8qLVs2

Federal Health Centers – R42433

The federal health center program is authorized in Section 330 of the Pub ... http://p.ost.im/8qS52P

The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): An Overview – RL31768

The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC or EIC) began in 1975 as a temporary p ... http://p.ost.im/8qmwkC

Cybersecurity: Authoritative Reports and Resources, by Topic – R42507

This report provides references to analytical reports on cybersecurity fr ... http://p.ost.im/84cdpK

Expired and Expiring Temporary Tax Provisions (“Tax Extenders”) – R43124

Dozens of temporary tax provisions expired at the end of 2013, and severa ... http://p.ost.im/8Vbvq8

SBA Assistance to Small Business Startups: Client Experiences and Program Impact – R43083

The Small Business Administration (SBA) administers several programs to s ... http://p.ost.im/8qBdTK

Community Services Block Grants (CSBG): Background and Funding – RL32872

Community Services Block Grants (CSBG) provide federal funds to states, t ... http://p.ost.im/8VnxNF

Small Business Administration 7(a) Loan Guaranty Program – R41146

The Small Business Administration (SBA) administers several programs to s ... http://p.ost.im/8Vgn3T

U.S. Crude Oil and Natural Gas Production in Federal and Non-Federal Areas

In 2013, the price of oil averaged $98 per barrel (West Texas Intermediat ... http://p.ost.im/8VWfdG

Wednesday, April 16, 2014

The Affordable Care Act and Small Business: Economic Issues – R43181

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA; P.L. 111-148 and P.L ... http://p.ost.im/84DEm9

Credit for Military Service Under Civilian Federal Employee Retirement Systems – R40428

Federal employees with permanent appointments earn pension benefits under ... http://p.ost.im/8qe9Rq

The Trend in Long-Term Unemployment and Characteristics of Workers Unemployed for Two Years or More – R41559

One of the characteristics of the recession that officially began in the ... http://p.ost.im/8qNhyC

Federal Minimum Wage, Tax-Transfer Earnings Supplements, and Poverty – R43409

Pending before Congress is legislation (S. 1737 and H.R. 1010) that would ... http://p.ost.im/8VUNur

Discretionary Budget Authority by Subfunction: An Overview – R41726

This report provides a graphical overview of historical trends in discret ... http://p.ost.im/8V3tU9

Implementation of Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards (CFATS): Issues for Congress – R43346

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) implements the Chemical Facilit ... http://p.ost.im/8VpTsQ

Foreign Assistance to North Korea – R40095

Between 1995 and 2008, the United States provided North Korea with over $ ... http://p.ost.im/8qxahF

The Child Tax Credit: Current Law and Legislative History – R41873

This report provides background information on the child tax credit. Spec ... http://p.ost.im/8qqmb6

Daily Report of CRS Documents 04/16/2014

Wednesday April 16, 2014 Order ID Title Pages Issue Date Author/Division R40 ... http://p.ost.im/8qR5DR

Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia: Political Developments and Implications for U.S. Interests – RL33453

The United States recognized the independence of Armenia, Azerbaijan, and ... http://p.ost.im/8q8yKL

Ukraine: Current Issues and U.S. Policy – RL33460

After a failed effort to violently disperse pro-European Union protests, ... http://p.ost.im/8XcWeY

Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA): Resources for Frequently Asked Questions – R43215

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA; P.L. 111-148, as ame ... http://p.ost.im/84phV4

Veterans’ Medical Care: FY2014 Appropriations – R43179

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides benefits to veterans who ... http://p.ost.im/8Vs5aG

Tuesday, April 15, 2014

Navy Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) Program: Background and Issues for Congress – RL33745

The Aegis ballistic missile defense (BMD) program, which is carried out b ... http://p.ost.im/8VRaqf

The Budget Control Act and Trends in Discretionary Spending – RL34424

Discretionary spending is provided and controlled through appropriations ... http://p.ost.im/8V9vD9

The U.S. Secret Service: History and Missions – RL34603

The U.S. Secret Service has two missions—criminal investigations and pr ... http://p.ost.im/8VBHa4

Navy Ship Names: Background For Congress – RS22478

Names for Navy ships traditionally have been chosen and announced by the ... http://p.ost.im/8VqM2V

Survivor Benefits for Families of Civilian Federal Employees and Retirees – RS21029

Federal employees with permanent appointments may be eligible for retirem ... http://p.ost.im/8Vypnp

The Peace Corps: Current Issues – RS21168

Founded in 1961, the Peace Corps has sought to meet its legislative manda ... http://p.ost.im/84NGsR

Daily Report of CRS Documents 04/15/2014

Tuesday April 15, 2014 Order ID Title Pages Issue Date Author/Division 9 ... http://p.ost.im/8VrJCn

Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) and Related Non-Tariff Barriers to Agricultural Trade – R43450

Sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures are the laws, rules, standards, ... http://p.ost.im/8XtjDv

Navy Irregular Warfare and Counterterrorism Operations: Background and Issues for Congress – RS22373

The Navy for several years has carried out a variety of irregular warfare ... http://p.ost.im/8VbDkp

Runaway and Homeless Youth: Demographics and Programs – RL33785

There is no single definition of the terms “runaway youth” or “home ... http://p.ost.im/84Kae9

Congressional Liaison Offices of Selected Federal Agencies – 98-446

This list of about 200 congressional liaison offices is intended to help ... http://p.ost.im/8VkpXP

Reform of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Courts: A Brief Overview – R43451

In the wake of recent disclosures concerning various National Security Ag ... http://p.ost.im/8XENcp

Recently Expired Housing Related Tax Provisions (“Tax Extenders”): In Brief – R43449

On April 3, 2014, the Senate Finance Committee passed the Expiring Provis ... http://p.ost.im/8VmCND

Unlawfully Present Aliens, Driver’s Licenses, and Other State-Issued ID: Select Legal Issues – R43452

One aspect of the broader debate over aliens who are present in the Unite ... http://p.ost.im/84CB7h

Navy Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) Program: Background and Issues for Congress – RL33741

A total of 20 Littoral Combat Ships (LCSs) have been funded through FY201 ... http://p.ost.im/84ndwQ

Monday, April 14, 2014

Overview of Constitutional Challenges to NSA Collection Activities and Recent Developments – R43459

Beginning in the summer of 2013, media reports of foreign intelligence ac ... http://p.ost.im/8X7gEG

Risk-Based Approaches to Airline Passenger Screening – R43456

Until recently, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) had appl ... http://p.ost.im/8Xhe33

Child Welfare: Oversight of Psychotropic Medication for Children in Foster Care – R43466

Children in foster care are children that the state has removed from thei ... http://p.ost.im/8XTgxL

Policy Issues in the General Motors Vehicle Recall – R43454

General Motors Co. (GM) has notified the National Highway Traffic Safety ... http://p.ost.im/8XQBRm

Tort Suits Against Federal Contractors: Selected Legal Issues – R43462

Contractors have played a considerable role in U.S. military operations o ... http://p.ost.im/84geSh

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Subsidized Employment and the President’s FY2015 Budget Proposal: In Brief – R43461

President Obama’s FY2015 budget proposal would establish within the Tem ... http://p.ost.im/8Ve853

The Renewable Electricity Production Tax Credit: In Brief – R43453

The renewable electricity production tax credit (PTC) expired on January ... http://p.ost.im/8QhUYr

Contractor Fraud Against the Federal Government: Selected Federal Civil Remedies – R43460

Because the federal government relies heavily on contractors to supply it ... http://p.ost.im/894aRg

U.S. Travel and Tourism: Industry Trends and Policy Issues for Congress – R43463

The U.S. travel and tourism industry accounted for 2.8% of gross domestic ... http://p.ost.im/8H3S4M

EPA and the Army Corps’ Proposed Rule to Define “Waters of the United States” – R43455

On March 25, 2014, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. ... http://p.ost.im/84fd3E

Child Welfare: An Overview of Federal Programs and Their Current Funding – R43458

Child welfare services are intended to prevent the abuse or neglect of ch ... http://p.ost.im/8XbFDg

Friday, April 11, 2014

Multiyear Procurement (MYP) and Block Buy Contracting in Defense Acquisition: Background and Issues for Congress – R41909

Multiyear procurement (MYP) and block buy contracting (BBC) are special c ... http://p.ost.im/8CEW6C

Residential Energy Tax Credits: Overview and Analysis – R42089

Currently, on their 2013 federal income tax return, taxpayers may be able ... http://p.ost.im/8XrwTG

Financial Condition of Depository Banks – R43002

A bank is an institution that obtains either a federal or state charter t ... http://p.ost.im/8Cvu8A

Cybersecurity: Authoritative Reports and Resources, by Topic – R42507

This report provides references to analytical reports on cybersecurity fr ... http://p.ost.im/89h9Hh

Tax Reform in the 113th Congress: An Overview of Proposals – R43060

Many agree that the U.S. tax system is in need of substantial reforms. Th ... http://p.ost.im/89SYTe

National Statuary Hall Collection: Background and Legislation Options – R42812

The National Statuary Hall Collection, located in the United States Capit ... http://p.ost.im/8929a4

Daily Report of CRS Documents 04/11/2014

Friday April 11, 2014 Order ID Title Pages Issue Date Author/Division R4 ... http://p.ost.im/8XhkRx

Internet Governance and the Domain Name System: Issues for Congress – R42351

The Internet is often described as a “network of networks” because it ... http://p.ost.im/8X8FJp

Water Quality Issues in the 113th Congress: An Overview – R42883

Much progress has been made in achieving the ambitious goals that Congres ... http://p.ost.im/8QVyGh

Unemployment Insurance: Legislative Issues in the 113th Congress – R42936

The 113th Congress may face a number of issues related to unemployment in ... http://p.ost.im/84dL7j

Energy Policy: 113th Congress Issues – R42756

Energy policy in the United States has focused on three major goals: assu ... http://p.ost.im/8QbvMj

Thursday, April 10, 2014

Mixed-Oxide Fuel Fabrication Plant and Plutonium Disposition: Management and Policy Issues – R43125

The Mixed Oxide Fuel Fabrication Facility (MFFF) in South Carolina has be ... http://p.ost.im/89kUh9

Daily Report of CRS Documents 04/10/2014

Thursday April 10, 2014 Order ID Title Pages Issue Date Author/Division ... http://p.ost.im/89246V

Expired and Expiring Temporary Tax Provisions (“Tax Extenders”) – R43124

Dozens of temporary tax provisions expired at the end of 2013. Most of th ... http://p.ost.im/8H3Bnv

Energy-Water Nexus: The Water Sector’s Energy Use – R43200

Water and energy are resources that are reciprocally and mutually linked, ... http://p.ost.im/89A62N

Federal Employees’ Retirement System: Budget and Trust Fund Issues – RL30023

Most of the civilian federal workforce is covered by one of two retiremen ... http://p.ost.im/8xMRCS

Social Security Disability Insurance (DI) Trust Fund: Background and Solvency Issues – R43318

The Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program provides benefits ... http://p.ost.im/8XRKgp

Older Americans Act: In Brief – R43414

Originally enacted in 1965, the Older Americans Act (OAA) supports a wide ... http://p.ost.im/8XHUsL

Aereo and FilmOn X: Internet Television Streaming and Copyright Law – R43359

Aereo and FilmOn X stream television programming over the Internet for a ... http://p.ost.im/89fnBp

Legislative Actions to Repeal, Defund, or Delay the Affordable Care Act – R43289

Congress is deeply divided over implementation of the Patient Protection ... http://p.ost.im/8CHMus

NASA Appropriations and Authorizations: A Fact Sheet – R43419

In the current fiscal environment, congressional deliberations about the ... http://p.ost.im/8xGMtw

The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): An Overview – RL31768

The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC or EIC) began in 1975 as a temporary p ... http://p.ost.im/8xXGNu

Federal Funding for Health Insurance Exchanges – R43066

Pursuant to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA, P.L. 111 ... http://p.ost.im/8CCwn5

Green Infrastructure and Issues in Managing Urban Stormwater – R43131

For decades, stormwater, or runoff, was considered largely a problem of e ... http://p.ost.im/89kHwv

Wednesday, April 9, 2014

Trade Adjustment Assistance for Farmers – R40206

The Trade Adjustment Assistance for Farmers (TAAF) program provides techn ... http://p.ost.im/8CnTnX

National Park System: Establishing New Units – RS20158

The National Park System (System) includes 401 diverse units administered ... http://p.ost.im/8CyG9b

Stormwater Permits: Status of EPA’s Regulatory Program – 97-290

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and states are implementing a f ... http://p.ost.im/8Cuupf

Financing the U.S. Trade Deficit – RL33274

The U.S. merchandise trade deficit is a part of the overall U.S. balance ... http://p.ost.im/8QEJXX

Daily Report of CRS Documents 04/09/2014

Wednesday April 9, 2014 Order ID Title Pages Issue Date Author/Division ... http://p.ost.im/8QwkGB

Navy Virginia (SSN-774) Class Attack Submarine Procurement: Background and Issues for Congress – RL32418

The Navy has been procuring Virginia (SSN-774) class nuclear-powered atta ... http://p.ost.im/8QX8Dg

Defense Authorization and Appropriations Bills: FY1970-FY2014 – 98-756

The passage of the Department of Defense (DOD) authorization and appropri ... http://p.ost.im/8CRsUj

Bahrain: Reform, Security, and U.S. Policy – 95-1013

The uprising against Bahrain’s Al Khalifa royal family that began in Ba ... http://p.ost.im/8CPAXg

Navy DDG-51 and DDG-1000 Destroyer Programs: Background and Issues for Congress – RL32109

As part of its proposed FY2015 budget, the Navy is requesting funding for ... http://p.ost.im/8C8GuB

Older Americans Act: Title III Nutrition Services Program – RS21202

The elderly nutrition services program, authorized under Title III of the ... http://p.ost.im/8CJu95

Internet Domain Names: Background and Policy Issues – 97-868

Navigating the Internet requires using addresses and corresponding names ... http://p.ost.im/8CKLjw

Navy Ford (CVN-78) Class Aircraft Carrier Program: Background and Issues for Congress – RS20643

CVN-78, CVN-79, and CVN-80 are the first three ships in the Navy’s new ... http://p.ost.im/8CmYxN

Net Neutrality: The FCC’s Authority to Regulate Broadband Internet Traffic Management – R40234

A major debate over the government’s role with respect to the regulatio ... http://p.ost.im/8QHdmw

Tuesday, April 8, 2014

Legislative Research for Congressional Staff: How to Find Documents and Other Resources – R43434

This report is one of a series of reports on legislative process and rese ... http://p.ost.im/8xEYxd

Marijuana: Medical and Retail- An Abbreviated View of Selected Legal Issues – R43437

The federal Controlled Substances Act (CSA) outlaws the possession, culti ... http://p.ost.im/8QwAqy

S. 1961 and H.R. 4024: Legislative Responses to a Chemical Storage Facility Spill – R43441

In January 2014, an estimated 10,000 gallons of the chemical 4-methylcycl ... http://p.ost.im/8QCBxR

Authorization of General Services Administration Real Property Projects: Current Process and Proposed Legislation – R43443

The General Services Administration (GSA) controls more than 8,700 owned ... http://p.ost.im/8QYMDS

U.S. Crude Oil Export Policy: Background and Considerations – R43442

During an era of oil price controls and following the 1973 Organization o ... http://p.ost.im/89TqCa

Worker Participation in Employer-Sponsored Pensions: A Fact Sheet – R43439

This fact sheet provides data on the percentage of American workers who h ... http://p.ost.im/8QPerf

Reporting Foreign Financial Assets Under Titles 26 and 31: FATCA and FBAR – R43444

All citizens of the United States as well as U.S. resident aliens are req ... http://p.ost.im/8xT5YD

Bonus Depreciation: Economic and Budgetary Issues – R43432

The Tax Extenders Act of 2013 (S. 1859), which would extend expiring tax ... http://p.ost.im/89PeHM

Regulation of Clinical Tests: In Vitro Diagnostic (IVD) Devices, Laboratory Developed Tests (LDTs), and Genetic Tests – R43438

In vitro diagnostic (IVD) devices are used in the analysis of human sampl ... http://p.ost.im/89nuUG

Safe Harbor for Online Service Providers Under Section 512(c) of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act – R43436

Congress passed the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) in 1998 in an ... http://p.ost.im/89bkVp

U.S.-Vietnam Nuclear Cooperation Agreement: Issues for Congress – R43433

U.S.-Vietnamese cooperation on nuclear energy and nonproliferation has gr ... http://p.ost.im/89EpKR

Marijuana: Medical and Retail- Selected Legal Issues – R43435

The federal Controlled Substances Act (CSA) outlaws the possession, culti ... http://p.ost.im/8x8Cbc

Daily Report of CRS Documents 04/08/2014

Tuesday April 8, 2014 Order ID Title Pages Issue Date Author/Division R4 ... http://p.ost.im/8QtEfr

Monday, April 7, 2014

Coast Guard Polar Icebreaker Modernization: Background and Issues for Congress – RL34391

The Coast Guard’s FY2013 budget initiated a new project for the design ... http://p.ost.im/8QJJqA

Daily Report of CRS Documents 04/07/2014

Monday April 7, 2014 Order ID Title Pages Issue Date Author/Division R43 ... http://p.ost.im/8xt4qV

Ukraine: Current Issues and U.S. Policy – RL33460

After a failed effort to violently disperse pro-European Union protests, ... http://p.ost.im/8xb5Rs

Brazil: Political and Economic Situation and U.S. Relations – RL33456

The United States has traditionally enjoyed cooperative relations with Br ... http://p.ost.im/895WYd

Farm Commodity Provisions in the 2014 Farm Bill (P.L. 113-79) – R43448

The farm commodity program provisions in Title I of the Agricultural Act ... http://p.ost.im/8QSC3a

Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF): Program Overview and Issues – RS22037

In the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) Amendments of 1996, Congress author ... http://p.ost.im/8xKPt8

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services: President’s FY2015 Budget – R43446

Federal law requires the President to submit an annual budget to Congress ... http://p.ost.im/897Nb2

The Tip Credit Provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA): In Brief – R43445

The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), enacted in 1938 (P.L. 75-718), is th ... http://p.ost.im/8QB2ES

Abortion: Judicial History and Legislative Response – RL33467

In 1973, the U.S. Supreme Court concluded in Roe v. Wade that the U.S. Co ... http://p.ost.im/8xcTvd

Unlawfully Present Aliens, Higher Education, In-State Tuition, and Financial Aid: Legal Analysis – R43447

The existence of a sizable population of “DREAMers” in the United Sta ... http://p.ost.im/8x3dnM

Disability Retirement for Federal Employees – RS22838

Paid sick leave, disability retirement, or workers’ compensation may pr ... http://p.ost.im/8xgfAk

Older Americans Act: Funding Formulas – RS22549

The Older Americans Act (OAA) is the major vehicle for the delivery of so ... http://p.ost.im/8xaewN

Afghanistan: Politics, Elections, and Government Performance – RS21922

The capacity, transparency, and legitimacy of Afghan governance are consi ... http://p.ost.im/89xAYf

Friday, April 4, 2014

National Monuments and the Antiquities Act – R41330

The Antiquities Act of 1906 authorizes the President to proclaim national ... http://p.ost.im/8xSFDR

The Mortgage Interest and Property Tax Deductions: Analysis and Options – R41596

Concern has increased over the size and sustainability of the United Stat ... http://p.ost.im/89SX7n

EPA Regulations: Too Much, Too Little, or On Track? – R41561

Since Barack Obama was sworn in as President in 2009, the Environmental P ... http://p.ost.im/89Lcar

Selected Characteristics of Private and Public Sector Workers – R41897

An issue for Congress and state and local governments is whether the pay ... http://p.ost.im/89qcu8

Daily Report of CRS Documents 04/04/2014

Friday April 4, 2014 Order ID Title Pages Issue Date Author/Division 98- ... http://p.ost.im/89r6wk

Latin America and the Caribbean: Fact Sheet on Leaders and Elections – 98-684

This report provides the results of recent elections in Latin America and ... http://p.ost.im/89L9Nv

The Role of TARP Assistance in the Restructuring of General Motors – R41978

In 2008 and 2009, collapsing world credit markets and a slowing global ec ... http://p.ost.im/8xY6Hp

Alternate Assessments for Students with Disabilities – R40701

The 113th Congress is actively considering whether to amend and extend th ... http://p.ost.im/89A8Ft

Thursday, April 3, 2014

Sugar Provisions of the 2014 Farm Bill (P.L. 113-79) – R42551

The 2014 farm bill (Agricultural Act of 2014, P.L. 113-79) continues the ... http://p.ost.im/8uUPVs

Visa Waiver Program – RL32221

The visa waiver program (VWP) allows nationals from certain countries to ... http://p.ost.im/8u7w9S

Internet Governance and the Domain Name System: Issues for Congress – R42351

The Internet is often described as a “network of networks” because it ... http://p.ost.im/8uXegL

Legislative Options for Financing Water Infrastructure – R42467

This report addresses several options being considered by Congress to add ... http://p.ost.im/8uCQmY

Retirement Benefits for Members of Congress – RL30631

Prior to 1984, neither federal civil service employees nor Members of Con ... http://p.ost.im/8usyac

Daily Report of CRS Documents 04/03/2014

Thursday April 3, 2014 Order ID Title Pages Issue Date Author/Division R4235 ... http://p.ost.im/8uEAhb

The American Opportunity Tax Credit: Overview, Analysis, and Policy Options – R42561

The American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC)—enacted on a temporary basis ... http://p.ost.im/8uuMes

Assistance to Firefighters Program: Distribution of Fire Grant Funding – RL32341

The Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program, also known as fire gr ... http://p.ost.im/8uH786

Wednesday, April 2, 2014

Small Business Administration: A Primer on Programs and Funding – RL33243

The Small Business Administration (SBA) administers several types of prog ... http://p.ost.im/8uRAYL

Syria: Overview of the Humanitarian Response – R43119

The ongoing conflict that began in March 2011 in Syria has created one of ... http://p.ost.im/8yaMaa

United States Fire Administration: An Overview – RS20071

The United States Fire Administration (USFA)—which includes the Nationa ... http://p.ost.im/8uyMCw

Pesticide Use and Water Quality: Are the Laws Complementary or in Conflict? – RL32884

This report provides background on the emerging conflict over interpretat ... http://p.ost.im/8uvEqD

Iran Sanctions – RS20871

Strict sanctions on Iran—sanctions that primarily target Iran’s key e ... http://p.ost.im/8uVk3c

Maritime Territorial and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) Disputes Involving China: Issues for Congress – R42784

China’s actions for asserting and defending its maritime territorial an ... http://p.ost.im/8uFuaa

Marine Corps Amphibious Combat Vehicle (ACV) and Marine Personnel Carrier (MPC): Background and Issues for Congress – R42723

On January 6, 2011, after spending approximately $3 billion in developmen ... http://p.ost.im/8uU9tf

Daily Report of CRS Documents 04/02/2014

Wednesday April 2, 2014 Order ID Title Pages Issue Date Author/Division ... http://p.ost.im/8a6kXA

Tuesday, April 1, 2014

U.S. Trade Deficit and the Impact of Changing Oil Prices – RS22204

Imported petroleum prices fell from an average price of $102 per barrel o ... http://p.ost.im/85NWeP

Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response: The SAFER Grant Program – RL33375

In response to concerns over the adequacy of firefighter staffing, the St ... http://p.ost.im/8PwLTN

Iraq: Politics, Governance, and Human Rights – RS21968

More than two years after the 2011 U.S. withdrawal from Iraq, sectarian d ... http://p.ost.im/8mbKUP

Daily Report of CRS Documents 04/01/2014

Tuesday April 1, 2014 Order ID Title Pages Issue Date Author/Division S4 ... http://p.ost.im/8uV8SK

Central Asia: Regional Developments and Implications for U.S. Interests – RL33458

U.S. policy toward the Central Asian states has aimed at facilitating the ... http://p.ost.im/8uPY3c

The State of Campaign Finance Policy: Recent Developments and Issues for Congress – S41542

The U.S. Supreme Court is once again evaluating the constitutionality of ... http://p.ost.im/8Pqjug

Community Development Block Grants: Funding Issues in the 113th Congress – R43208

On March 4, 2014, the Obama Administration released its FY2015 budget req ... http://p.ost.im/8uy3ub

Reform of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Courts: Introducing a Public Advocate – R43260

Recent revelations about the size and scope of government foreign surveil ... http://p.ost.im/8PRGMf

Free Exercise of Religion by Secular Organizations and Their Owners: Implications for the Affordable Care Act (ACA) – R43329

The Supreme Court’s grant of review in Conestoga Wood Specialties Corp. ... http://p.ost.im/8PD8Bt