S. 1240Senate108th Congress (2003-2005)In Committee

Millennium Challenge Act of 2003

A bill to establish the Millennium Challenge Corporation, and for other purposes.

Legislative Activity

Stay on top of the latest movement without scrolling through every action

2 earlier actions

SenateIntro Referral Latest Action

Read twice and referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations.

Foreign Relations Committee

June 11, 2003

View full timeline

SenateIntro Referral

Introduced in Senate

June 11, 2003

SenateIntro Referral

Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S7729-7730)

June 11, 2003

SenateIntro Referral

Read twice and referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations.

Foreign Relations Committee

June 11, 2003

Floor Debate

8 members

What members said about S. 1240 on the floor

5 Republicans3 Democrats

Sen. John EdwardsD-NC · Jun 11, 2003

Mr. President, today I am proud to join with two of my colleagues--Senator Reed and Senator Roberts--to introduce legislation that will help America meet a critical challenge that, during the past…

Mr. President, today I am proud to join with two of my colleagues--Senator Reed and Senator Roberts--to introduce legislation that will help America meet a critical challenge that, during the past decade, it has faced over and over: helping countries that have suffered from conflict work to rebuild their societies.

Over the past two years, America has proved again that we have the finest military force in the world. In Afghanistan and Iraq, the men and women of America's military performed with great bravery and skill. By defeating the Taliban and removing Saddam Hussein's regime from power, they showed that they are the world's best trained troops using the world's most sophisticated weapons. This is a powerful example of the leadership and commitment both here in the Congress and in successive Administrations--both Democrat and Republican--to ensure that our military remains the best equipped, best trained, most prepared fighting force in the world.

But these decisive military victories have been followed by a peace where success has not been so clear. First in Afghanistan, and now in Iraq, our efforts to help these societies get back on their feet have produced mixed results. To be sure, the challenges in both countries are profound: Afghanistan suffered from nearly a quarter-century of civil war, and Iraq suffered for more than two decades under the thumb of Saddam Hussein and his brutal regime. Both countries have deep internal divisions and little experience with representative government. While it is reasonable to assume post-conflict reconstruction efforts in both nations will take considerable time, these realities cannot be an excuse for the overall shortcoming in our own efforts, especially because we have the resources and capabilities to do better.

This is not the first time we have faced such challenges. Since the end of the Cold War, thousands of American military, diplomatic and humanitarian personnel have also been involved in major post-conflict reconstruction efforts in such places as Bosnia, Kosovo, Somalia, Rwanda, Haiti, and East Timor. Each of these efforts has had varying degrees of success, but on balance, I think we all can agree that we could have done better.

Too often, our response to post-conflict situations has been haphazard and slow to start. And once underway, our efforts often suffer from a cumbersome chain-of-command, lack of resources, and inadequate accountability.

The problem is that our government is still not well organized to deal with such situations. Each time we get involved in a post-conflict reconstruction effort we end up making it up as we go. We waste valuable time reinventing the bureaucratic wheel. And we get in unnecessary arguments about who should do what and who should be in charge.

It is remarkable that even with all the commitments we have made during the past decade, next to nothing has been done to reform the way our government works to enhance our capacity to deal with these situations effectively. Governmental mechanisms developed during the Cold War are outdated and not suited to addressing the complex set of challenges created by failed states.

We must do better. After more than ten years of improvising our responses to these challenges, it is time to change the way we do things. We need to improve our ability to plan, coordinate, and organize U.S. government resources to assist with post-conflict reconstruction. We need to train our people more effectively. We need a better sense of what works and what does not. We need greater accountability. And we need to promote the means for involving other countries in these efforts, including through institutions like NATO.

I believe that the ``Winning the Peace Act'' is an important step toward accomplishing these goals. This legislation is based upon the work of the bipartisan ``Commission on Post-Conflict Reconstruction,'' convened by the Association of the U.S. Army and the Center for Strategic and International Studies, CSIS. This Commission was very ably led by Dr. John Hamre, the former Deputy Secretary of Defense, and General Gordon Sullivan, the former Army Chief of Staff. The Commission was composed of twenty-seven distinguished military, diplomatic and humanitarian experts, including myself and my two Senate cosponsors.

The legislation includes five key proposals:

First, it calls on the President to appoint a Director of Reconstruction for areas where the U.S. will assist with post-conflict reconstruction. These Directors will provide oversight, help coordinate, and have decision-making authority for all U.S. government reconstruction activities in a particular country. They will also coordinate with the representatives of the country in question, other foreign governments, multilateral organizations, and relevant NGOs.

Second, it establishes a permanent office within the State Department to provide support to Directors of Reconstruction, ensuring that these Directors can hit the ground running and not waste valuable time hiring staff and getting office space.

Third, it establishes within USAID an Office of International Emergency Management. This new office will develop and maintain a database of individuals with expertise in reconstruction, and provide support for mobilizing these experts.

Fourth, it calls on NATO to develop an ``Integrated Security Support Component'' to assist with reconstruction. This NATO-led force will help provide security, including assistance with policing ensuring that America will not be forced to shoulder these burdens alone.

Finally, this bill establishes an interagency training center for post-conflict reconstruction. This will be run by the State Department, and will help train personnel in assessment, strategy development, planning, and coordination related to providing reconstruction services. It will also develop and certify experts in the field, and conduct lesson-learned reviews of operations.

Having these resources in place will enhance America's capacity to assist reconstruction in four critical areas: Security and public safety, such as assisting with disarmament and training of police forces; Justice, such as developing the rule of law, preventing human rights violations, and bringing war criminals to justice; Governance, such as reforming civil administration, restoring basic civil functions, and establishing processes of governance and participation; and Economic and Social Well-being, such as providing humanitarian assistance and developing national economic institutions.

With these changes, we will not only make America's efforts to assist in post-conflict reconstruction more efficient and accountable. We will also make our efforts more effective contributing more to the safety and security of the people we are trying to help, and helping them run their countries on their own.

By ensuring that we maintain the best military in the world, we have made a full commitment to winning wars. It is now time to ensure that we are capable of winning the peace.

I ask unanimous consent that the text of the legislation be printed in the Record.

Sen. John McCainR-AZ · Jun 11, 2003

Mr. President, today I am joined by the Chairman of the Senate Commerce Committee's Competition, Foreign Commerce, and Infrastructure Subcommittee, Senator Smith, in introducing the Federal Trade…

Mr. President, today I am joined by the Chairman of the Senate Commerce Committee's Competition, Foreign Commerce, and Infrastructure Subcommittee, Senator Smith, in introducing the Federal Trade Commission Reauthorization Act of 2003. This legislation is designed to reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission, FTC or Commission, in furtherance of its mission to enhance the efficient operation of the marketplace by both eliminating acts or practices that are unfair or deceptive and preventing anti-competitive conduct. This vital consumer protection agency has not been reauthorized since 1996.

Title I of the bill is nearly identical to legislation that was reported by the Commerce Committee last year. It would authorize funding for Fiscal Years 2004 through 2006. In addition, this portion of the bill would authorize the FTC to provide investigative and other services to a requesting law enforcement agency and receive from that agency, if offered, reimbursement for the FTC's involvement. This part of the bill also would grant the Commission the authority it has requested to receive gifts or items that would be useful to the Commission as long as a conflict of interest is not created by such receipt.

The second title of the bill is designed to mitigate the challenges that the FTC currently faces in combating cross-border fraud. The FTC's responsibility to protect consumers is essential, particularly in today's global climate of high-speed information and marketing, which knows no international borders. This title would improve the Commission's ability to: share information involving cross-border fraud with foreign consumer protection agencies; secure confidential

information from those foreign agencies; take legal action in foreign jurisdictions; seek redress on behalf of foreign consumers victimized by U.S.-based wrongdoers; make criminal referrals for cross-border criminal activity; and strengthen its relationship with foreign consumer protection agencies. The Competition Subcommittee will hold a hearing later today on the FTC's reauthorization and will consider a number of issues including the Commission's cross-border fraud proposal.

Not included in the bill is language that was reported by the Commerce Committee last Fall that would repeal the ``common carrier'' exemption in the FTC's organizing statute that currently precludes the Commission from exercising authority over certain activities of telecommunications common carriers. The Federal Communications Commission, FCC, currently has jurisdiction over these common carriers.

While I fully support any effort to combat entities that perpetrate fraud on consumers, and I respect the expertise and ability of the FTC and FCC to seek redress for victims of such fraud, I made it clear during the Commerce Committee's executive session last Fall that a discussion was necessary between the two agencies to resolve any overlap in jurisdiction that may exist. It is our understanding that the FTC and FCC are in the process of negotiating an agreement that would satisfy the objectives of both agencies to further their respective consumer protection missions. Thus, for now, we will reserve judgment as to whether such a repeal is necessary.

Meanwhile, I look forward to working on this important consumer protection legislation and I hope that my colleagues will agree to join us in expeditiously moving this reauthorization through the legislative process. Reauthorizing the FTC is important if the agency is to continue to successfully carry out its many responsibilities.

I ask unanimous consent that the text of this bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. President, I am pleased to be joined by Senator Hollings, the Ranking Member of the Senate Commerce Committee; and Senator Hutchison, the Chairman of the Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Subcommittee, in introducing a bipartisan bill to reauthorize the Federal Maritime Commission, FMC.

The Federal Maritime Commission is an independent agency comprised of five commissioners. Its primary responsibility is administering the Shipping Act of 1984 and enforcing the Foreign Shipping Practices Act and Section 19 of the Merchant Marine Act of 1920. The work carried out by the FMC is critical to protecting shippers and carriers from restrictive or unfair practices by foreign-flag carriers.

This legislation would authorize funding for the Commission to continue its important work through fiscal year 2005. Specifically, the bill would authorize $18.5 million for fiscal year 2004, which is the level requested by the Administration, and $19.5 million for fiscal year 2005. The bill also would amend Section 102(b) of the Reorganization Plan No. 7 of 1961 to require that the Commission's chairman be subject to Senate confirmation. Additionally, the bill would require the Commission to report to Congress on the status of any agreements or discussions with other Federal, State, or local governmental agencies concerning issues dealing with the sharing of ocean shipping information for the purpose of assisting law enforcement or anti-terrorism efforts. The Commission also would be directed to make recommendations on how the Commission's ocean shipping information could be better utilized to improve port security efforts.

I look forward to working with my colleagues in moving this bill through the legislative process in the weeks ahead.

Sen. Blanche L. LincolnD-AR · Jun 11, 2003

Mr. President, I am pleased to introduce the Improving Women's Health Act of 2003, which seeks to make Medicare, Medicaid, and S-CHIP better programs for women. I am pleased to be joined in this…

Mr. President, I am pleased to introduce the Improving Women's Health Act of 2003, which seeks to make Medicare, Medicaid, and S-CHIP better programs for women. I am pleased to be joined in this effort today by my friends Senators Murray, Landrieu, and Cantwell.

Women are the majority of Medicare recipients, and, at age 85, women make up 71 percent of the Medicare population. By adding several modern treatments to the list of Medicare benefits, we will begin to address some of the most prominent, underlying risk factors for illness that face women Medicare beneficiaries today. These new benefits represent the highest recommendations for Medicare beneficiaries in the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force and the Institute of Medicine. These benefits can help reduce Medicare beneficiaries' risk for health problems such as diabetes, stroke, cancer, osteoporosis, and heart disease.

This bill would also eliminate all cost-sharing for these and existing preventive health benefits to encourage women to get screened for diseases such as osteoporosis and breast cancer. We need to get rid of all barriers to preventative services. Studies have

shown that cost-sharing deters beneficiaries, especially those with low-incomes, from getting screened.

Because heart disease is the number one killer of women, this bill would add new preventive services to Medicare, such as cholesterol screening, medical nutrition therapy services for beneficiaries with cardiovascular disease, counseling for cessation of tobacco use, and diabetes screening.

In addition, this bill provides for coverage of annual pap smear and pelvic exams and boosts the payment amount for screening mammography under Medicare. Numerous reports in the media have indicated that screening mammography is not adequately reimbursed and, as a result, facilities are closing or ending their service. Facilities are saying that they are losing money on every patient that comes through the door, and patient load is rising.

Recognizing the role women play as caregivers for aging family members, this bill provides Medicare beneficiaries with a new option of receiving home health services in an adult day care setting. Adult day centers enable family caregivers to continue working or simply take a break from their caregiving duties. Most importantly, adult day care patients benefit from social interaction, therapeutic activities, nutrition, health monitoring, and medication management.

More than 22 million families nationwide, or nearly 1 in 4 families, serve as caregivers for aging seniors, providing close to 80 percent of the care of to individuals requiring long-term care. Nearly 75 percent of people providing care for aging family members are women who also maintain other responsibilities, such as working outside of the home and raising young children. The average loss of income to these caregivers has been shown to be over $650,000 in wages, pension, and Social Security benefits. The loss of productivity in U.S. businesses ranges from $11 to $29 billion a year. The services offered in adult day care facilities provide continuity of care and an important sense of community for both the senior and the caregiver. This important provision will benefit women of all ages.

Finally, this legislation provides States with the flexibility and Federal resources to improve and expand prenatal care for low-income pregnant women. It gives States new options to cover pregnant women under their State Children's Health Insurance Program, S-CHIP, to cover low-income legal immigrant pregnant women and children under Medicaid and S-CHIP, and to cover tobacco cessation counseling services for pregnant women under the Medicaid program. The bill also gives States the option to provide family planning services and supplies to low- income women. In recent years, a number of States, including Arkansas, have sought and received Federal permission in the form of waivers to provide Medicaid-financed family planning services and supplies to lower income, uninsured residents whose incomes are above the state's regular Medicaid eligibility ceilings. Under this section, States would no longer have to seek a waiver to extend Medicaid coverage for family planning services; instead they could establish these programs at their option.

I encourage my colleagues to join me by supporting this important legislation that will make Medicare, Medicaid, and S-CHIP better programs for all women.

Sen. Ben Nighthorse CampbellR-CO · Jun 11, 2003

Mr. President, I rise today to introduce the Tamarisk Control & Riparian Restoration Act. Tamarisk is a noxious weed that is not native to the Americas, but has spread across 11 States, from…

Mr. President, I rise today to introduce the Tamarisk Control & Riparian Restoration Act.

Tamarisk is a noxious weed that is not native to the Americas, but has spread across 11 States, from California to Oklahoma, like a plague. Many westerners consider Tamarisk, also known as Salt Cedar, to be one of the West's most significant natural resources problems for a variety of reasons.

Tamarisk's major threat is that it uses a significant amount of water, far more water than many realize. Yet, folks out West know all too well that we have been and are still experiencing one of the worst droughts in the West's recorded history. People who have been farming and ranching for generations have been forced to sell their homesteads and give up the life they love because there just hasn't been enough water for crops or to maintain livestock. I've personally felt the effects of the drought as my wife and I have had to sell our little cow/calf operation.

I mentioned earlier that Tamarisk uses significant amounts of water, but I want to speak a little bit now about just how much water it uses. Studies have found that Tamarisk uses from 2 to 4\1/2\ million acre feet of water each year, water we frankly cannot afford to lose.

To put that in perspective, several other States and the Republic of Mexico are delivered 10 million acre feet from all of Colorado's rivers and streams, including the mighty Colorado River. California is allotted 4\1/2\ million acre feet of Colorado water per year. That means that Tamarisk, a noxious, nonnative weed, uses the same amount of water flowing from Colorado to California. We must address the preventable loss of this most valuable resource before it's too late.

My bill seeks to begin get the Tamarisk problem under control in a few innovative ways. First, my bill requires the Secretary of the Interior to assess the extent of Tamarisk invasion, identifying where it is in each affected State, and estimate the costs to restore the land.

Second, my bill establishes a State Tamarisk Assistance Program to provide States the needed funds to control or eradicate Tamarisk. Grant funds will be distributed to states in accordance with the severity of the Tamarisk problem they have.

The Governor of each State will appoint a state lead agency to administer the program in the State, working with Indian Tribes, colleges and universities, nonprofit organizations, soil and water conservancy districts, and Federal partners. This coordinate approach provides sufficient flexibility to deal with Tamarisk's spread and to reduce duplicative efforts.

A watershed or basin can stretch across all kinds of land, including Federal, State, or tribal lands. Noxious weeds don't recognize those ownership boundaries and neither can we.

Since my bill's focus is on getting rid of this water-sucking weed, it requires that 90 percent of the Federal funds must be used for eradiction or rehabilitation.

This legislation authorizes $20 million for 2004 and such sums as necessary thereafter. States must share the burden by ponying up 25 percent of the costs. The Tamarisk problem hurts everyone and the non- Federal share can come from counties, municipalities, special districts, nongovernmental entities, or the States themselves.

Our Nation is in a deficit, and every state is experiencing money shortages. Americans demand to know that their hard earned money is being spent wisely and in the most effient way possible. That is why my bill requires that each participating State must submit a report of the Secretary describing the purpose and results of the project in order to receive funding. In the West, water is more precious and scarce than elsewhere in our great nation. To do nothing about the preventable loss of precious water by the spread of this noxious plant and the loss of native habitat will cost us untold millions more in the future.

Back in my State of Colorado, constituents tell me how the drought has affected them, even devastated their livelihoods. No one can control the weather and bring rain. However, getting a handle on the water-sucking Tamarisk plaguing the West is possible--if we act now.

My bill provides the necessary tools to deal with this problem so that ther will be enough water for all of us, and habitat suitable for native species of plants and animals.

I ask unanimous consent that the next of the bill be printed in the Record.

Sen. Orrin G. HatchR-UT · Jun 11, 2003

Mr. President, I rise today to introduce a bill to designate the newly-constructed annex to the E. Barrett Prettyman United States Courthouse as the ``James L. Buckley Annex.'' As members of this…

Mr. President, I rise today to introduce a bill to designate the newly-constructed annex to the E. Barrett Prettyman United States Courthouse as the ``James L. Buckley Annex.'' As members of this body well know, Judge Buckley served in this Senate from 1971- 77, as a trusted colleague from the State of New York. During his tenure here, Judge Buckley was greatly admired for his dedication, integrity, and professionalism.

Judge Buckley's lengthy public service career is one of great distinction. In addition to the time he spent here in the Senate, Judge Buckley served in the United States Navy during World War II, as Undersecretary of State for Security Assistance, and as President of Radio Free Europe. Most recently, he served for more than a decade as a Circuit Judge on the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, in the E. Barrett Prettyman courthouse.

Earlier this Congress, we honored Judge Buckley, on the celebration of his 80th birthday, by passing unanimously a resolution, S. Res. 88, acknowledging his distinguished career in the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of the United States.

Naming the new annex to the E. Barrett Prettyman courthouse after Judge Buckley would be a fitting tribute to our former colleague and prominent jurist. I am honored to offer this legislation, and I urge my colleagues to support this well-deserved commendation.

Mr. President, I am proud to join Senator Mikulski as cosponsor of the ``National Great Black Americans Commemoration Act of 2003.'' This legislation will help offer a more complete portrayal of our Nation's proud history--one that includes an increased awareness of the contributions made by many great black Americans of various fields and accomplishments.

This legislation seeks to recognize the contributions of African Americans who have served in Congress or other government capacities, in the military, or in other important roles as educators, authors, scientists, inventors, athletes, clergy and civil rights leaders. Clearly, there are few, if any, areas of American culture and history that have not been touched and improved upon by the impact of black individuals. As we recognize this, it is important that we also recognize those whose goal is to make available the history of these outstanding people.

One such institution is The Great Blacks in Wax Museum, a nonprofit organization in Baltimore, MD, whose mission is to present the history of black Americans and to highlight their contributions to our nation. I believe that this institution's work thus far and its goals for the future make it worthy of our support. This legislation not only commends the efforts made by this museum to date, but authorizes the appropriation of funds that will help the museum to improve and expand. Appropriate Federal assistance, coupled with other funding raised by the museum, will allow the current institution to become the National Great Blacks in Wax Museum and Justice Learning Center, which will be better equipped to serve its purposes. This improved museum will be a bright example for projects with similar goals and will provide an excellent source of historical education for all who visit.

I am a strong believer that our history should be presented in a complete and accurate manner. Where we have understated in the past, we should make amends. The development of the National Great Blacks in Wax Museum and Justice Learning Center will be a valuable statement recognizing the contributions of so many great African Americans. I hope that my colleagues will see the merit in this endeavor and will lend their support to the National Great Black Americans Commemoration Act.

Show 4 more

Sen. Richard G. LugarR-IN · Jun 11, 2003

Mr. President, I rise to introduce legislation that is intended to unite Senators behind the President's bold new commitment to international development. As my colleagues are aware, the President…

Mr. President, I rise to introduce legislation that is intended to unite Senators behind the President's bold new commitment to international development. As my colleagues are aware, the President has offered a plan called the Millennium Challenge Corporation that will focus U.S. energy and resources on countries that, while very poor, show commitment to economic reform and development. It is a unique plan that would reward and showcase what we Americans believe to be the essential ingredients for success: good government, investments in people, and a reliance on free markets.

My colleagues on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee strongly supported the goals of the President's initiative and applauded his enthusiasm and personal commitment. But, when we considered the MCC legislation a few weeks ago, organizational issues divided the Committee. The Committee voted 11 to 8 against creating the MCC as an independent agency. Instead the functions of the MCC were integrated into the State Department.

This outcome did not capture the President's vision of a fresh start for a unique approach to development assistance. The Secretary of State himself argued against the Committee's majority on that vote. Secretary Powell said that the President's plan would be best achieved through the establishment of an innovative, flexible, narrowly targeted and highly visible separate organization that can complement other assistance provided through more traditional means.

I believe the Senate should work for a consensus on this issue. This important initiative cannot be allowed to founder on a question of organization.

I have been working to develop a middle ground that will satisfy the basic goals of all sides. My bill creates the needed ingredients for interagency coordination, a top priority among a majority on the Committee. But it does not undermine the integrity of the President's concept. It puts the MCC under the authority of the Secretary of State and has the MCC's Chief Executive Officer report to the Secretary. It gives the MCC the same status within the State Department as the U.S. Agency for International Development, with the right to manage itself, hire staff, and create its own culture. It mandates coordination between the MCC and USAID in the field and give USAID the primary role in preparing countries for MCC eligibility. It also includes the Administrator of USAID on the MCC board to ensure that the perspective of USAID is considered.

Through these means, I believe that the MCC can be substantially independent, as envisioned by the President, while preserving the leadership of the Secretary of State and the input of USAID.

I would emphasize that the President has invested his personal attention and time in the MCC concept. It is rare for a President of either party to provide such strong leadership in the area of development assistance. President Bush's advocacy is critical to the success of this initiative. I believe Congress will regret its actions if we undercut this opportunity for U.S. foreign policy by failing to reach a workable consensus on the MCC's organization.

I am hoping for a strong Senate vote on the MCC and will bring up my compromise proposal at an appropriate time. The MCC provides a way to focus single-mindedly on economic development that is results-based and meets clear benchmarks of success. We can have the coordination we seek while also insulating it from short-term political considerations so that it can focus on widening the universe of countries that live in peace and look to a prosperous and stable future.

I ask unanimous consent that the two accompany pages be printed in the Record.

Sen. Richard G. LugarR-IN · Jun 11, 2003

Mr. President, I rise to introduce legislation that is intended to unite Senators behind the President's bold new commitment to international development. As my colleagues are aware, the President…

I believe the Senate should work for a consensus on this issue. This important initiative cannot be allowed to founder on a question of organization.

Through these means, I believe that the MCC can be substantially independent, as envisioned by the President, while preserving the leadership of the Secretary of State and the input of USAID.

I ask unanimous consent that the two accompany pages be printed in the Record.

Sen. Barbara A. MikulskiD-MD · Jun 11, 2003

Mr. President, I rise to introduce the National Great Black Americans Commemoration Act. I am proud to sponsor this legislation. Black Americans have a rich history that must be cherished and…

Mr. President, I rise to introduce the National Great Black Americans Commemoration Act. I am proud to sponsor this legislation. Black Americans have a rich history that must be cherished and remembered. This bill will honor African American leaders from across the country--some who are well known, and others who are almost forgotten--by helping to preserve their names, faces, and stories for generations to come.

This legislation will provide Federal assistance to expand exhibits and educational programs at the National Great Blacks in Wax Museum and Justice Learning Center in Baltimore, Maryland. The museum showcases the lives of great Black Americans who have proudly served the United States--from civil servants like Mary McLeod Bethune, to military heroes like Colin Powell, to Congressional leaders like Senator Edward Brooke, R-MA, and civil rights leaders like Rosa Parks. Some are household names, like Frederick Douglass and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Yet many more are unfamiliar, like the 22 African Americans who served in Congress in the 1800s. It's time we give these pioneers the recognition they deserve.

Maryland is proud to be home to so many important figures in black history. From the dark days of slavery through the civil rights movement, Marylanders have led the way. The brilliant Frederick Douglass was the voice of the voiceless in the struggle against slavery. The courageous Harriet Tubman delivered 300 slaves to freedom on the Underground Railroad. The great Thurgood Marshall argued the Brown v. Board of Education Case before the Supreme Court, and later became a Supreme Court Justice himself.

Maryland is home to contemporary leaders, too. The dynamic Kweisi Mfume, president of the NAACP, who, like me, came out of the Baltimore City Council. The passionate Elijah Cummings, Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus. Clarence Mitchell who was called by many the 101st Senator. Parren Mitchell and Al Wynn, fighting for their constituents. And all the members of the NAACP, which calls Baltimore home.

It is fitting that the national Great Blacks in Wax Museum and Justice Learning Center also calls Baltimore home. The museum and learning center is a popular and respected black history museum. Approximately 300,000 people a year from around the country and the world visit the museum. Many are school children, who can see historical figures come to life in the museum's exhibits. Expansion will allow the museum to teach even more visitors about the important contributions of Black Americans. It will also help revitalize a poor neighborhood in East Baltimore. There will be new jobs. There will be more tourists. There will be new small businesses. And most important, there will be new inspiration for our young people.

The State of Maryland and City of Baltimore have already contributed over $5 million toward this expansion project. Private donors are contributing too. Now it's time for the Federal Government to do its part. Let's help make this museum a treasure for the entire Nation.

I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Sen. Robert F. BennettR-UT · Jun 11, 2003

Mr. President, today I am introducing The Independent Living Improvement Act of 2003, a bill to provide a more equitable allotment of funds to States for Centers for Independent Living. Centers for…

Mr. President, today I am introducing The Independent Living Improvement Act of 2003, a bill to provide a more equitable allotment of funds to States for Centers for Independent Living.

Centers for Independent Living, CILs, are non-profit organizations that assist people with significant disabilities who want to live more independently. CILs are primarily staffed by people with disabilities who act as role models, mentors, and counselors to other individuals with disabilities. Each center not only offers fundamental services such as information referral, and independent living skills training, it also tailors its services to the particular needs of its community. The ultimate goal of these centers is to help individuals become more independent and decrease the need for institutional care.

Currently, funds authorized for CILs under Title VII, Part C of the Rehabilitation Act are essentially allocated to States on the basis of their share of the total population. States with small populations are guaranteed the larger of $450,000 or \1/3\ of 1 percent of the funds available for the fiscal year in which the allocation is made, with a guaranteed minimum at the fiscal 1992 funding level for each State.

While the Federal appropriation to CILs has increased over the last five years, the growing disparity between funding for small States and larger States is problematic. The proposed formula change would amend the current funding formula for CILs to provide for more equitable distribution of future funds to each state. Fifty percent of any increase in CILs appropriated fund would be allocated according to population, as is currently done, and the remaining fifty percent would be divided equally among all States. The formula would only be applicable to any future increases in funding. This more equitable sharing of funds ensures that each State's CILs will receive additional funding each time there is an increase in funding and programs will be developed for people with disabilities regardless of where they live in the country.

This bill is supported by the National Council on Independent Living. I believe this a reasonable approach to solving this problem and look forward to working with my colleagues on this issue.

I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Bill Text

Latest available legislative text

Reading Mode

Raw Text PDF

Introduced in SenateIssued June 11, 2003

        [Congressional Bills 108th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[S. 1240 Introduced in Senate (IS)]

108th CONGRESS
1st Session
S. 1240

To establish the Millennium Challenge Corporation, and for other
purposes.

_______________________________________________________________________

IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES

June 11, 2003

Mr. Lugar introduced the following bill; which was read twice and
referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations

_______________________________________________________________________

A BILL

To establish the Millennium Challenge Corporation, and for other
purposes.

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
United States of America in Congress assembled,

SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.

(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Millennium
Challenge Act of 2003''.
(b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this Act is as
follows:

Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents.
Sec. 2. Findings; purpose.
Sec. 3. Definitions.
TITLE I--MILLENNIUM CHALLENGE ASSISTANCE

Sec. 101. Establishment and management of the Millennium Challenge
Corporation.
Sec. 102. Authorization for Millennium Challenge assistance.
Sec. 103. Candidate country.
Sec. 104. Eligible country.
Sec. 105. Eligible entity.
Sec. 106. Millennium Challenge Contract.
Sec. 107. Suspension of assistance to an eligible country.
Sec. 108. Disclosure.
Sec. 109. Annual report to Congress.
TITLE II--STRUCTURE, FUNCTION, AND POWERS OF THE MILLENNIUM CHALLENGE
CORPORATION

Sec. 201. Chief executive officer.
Sec. 202. Millennium Challenge Board.
Sec. 203. Coordination with USAID.
Sec. 204. Powers of the Corporation.
Sec. 205. Principal office.
Sec. 206. Personnel authorities.
Sec. 207. Personnel outside the United States.
Sec. 208. Use of services of other agencies.
Sec. 209. Administrative authorities.
Sec. 210. Applicability of chapter 91 of title 31, United States code.
TITLE III--THE MILLENNIUM CHALLENGE ACCOUNT AND AUTHORIZATION OF
APPROPRIATIONS

Sec. 301. Establishment of the Millennium Challenge Account.
Sec. 302. Authorization of appropriations.

SEC. 2. FINDINGS; PURPOSE.

(a) Findings.--Congress makes the following findings:
(1) On March 14, 2002, President George W. Bush stated that
``America supports the international development goals in the
U.N. Millennium Declaration, and believes that the goals are a
shared responsibility of developed and developing countries.''
The President also called for a ``new compact for global
development, defined by new accountability for both rich and
poor nations'' and pledged support for increased assistance
from the United States through the establishment of a
Millennium Challenge Account for countries that govern justly,
invest in their own people, and encourage economic freedom.
(2) The elimination of extreme poverty and the achievement
of the other international development goals of the United
Nations Millennium Declaration adopted by the United Nations
General Assembly on September 8, 2000, are important objectives
and it is appropriate for the United States to make development
assistance available in a manner that will assist in achieving
such goals.
(3) The availability of financial assistance through a
Millennium Challenge Account, linked to performance by
developing countries, can contribute significantly to the
achievement of the international development goals of the
United Nations Millennium Declaration.
(b) Purposes.--The purposes of this Act are--
(1) to provide United States assistance for global
development through the Millennium Challenge Corporation, as
described in section 102; and
(2) to provide such assistance in a manner that promotes
economic growth and the elimination of extreme poverty and
strengthens good governance, economic freedom, and investments
in people.

SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.

In this Act:
(1) Board.--The term ``Board'' means the Millennium
Challenge Board established by section 202.
(2) Candidate country.--The term ``candidate country''
means a country that meets the criteria set out in section 103.
(3) CEO.--The term ``CEO'' means the chief executive
officer of the Corporation.
(4) Corporation.--The term ``Corporation'' means the
Millennium Challenge Corporation established by section 101.
(5) Eligible country.--The term ``eligible country'' means
a candidate country that is determined, under section 104, as
being eligible to receive assistance under this Act.
(6) Millennium challenge account.--The term ``Millennium
Challenge Account'' means the account established under section
301.

TITLE I--MILLENNIUM CHALLENGE ASSISTANCE

SEC. 101. ESTABLISHMENT AND MANAGEMENT OF THE MILLENNIUM CHALLENGE
CORPORATION.

(a) Establishment.--There is established in the executive branch a
corporation within the meaning of section 103 of title 5, United States
Code, to be known as the Millennium Challenge Corporation with the
structure, function, and powers described in title II.
(b) Management of the Corporation.--
(1) In general.--The responsibility for the management of
the Corporation shall be vested in a chief executive officer,
who shall report to the Secretary of State.
(2) Consultation.--The CEO shall consult with the Board in
carrying out the responsibility described in paragraph (1).

SEC. 102. AUTHORIZATION FOR MILLENNIUM CHALLENGE ASSISTANCE.

(a) Authority.--The Corporation is authorized to provide assistance
to an eligible entity consistent with the purposes of this Act set out
in section 2(b) to conduct programs or projects consistent with the
objectives of a Millennium Challenge Contract. Assistance provided
under this Act may be provided notwithstanding any other provision of
law.
(b) Exception.--Assistance under this Act may not be used for
military assistance or training.
(c) Form of Assistance.--Assistance under this Act may be provided
in the form of grants to eligible entities.
(d) Coordination.--The provision of assistance under this Act shall
be coordinated with other United States foreign assistance programs.
(e) Applications.--An eligible entity seeking assistance under this
Act to conduct programs or projects consistent with the objectives of a
Millennium Challenge Contract shall submit a proposal for the use of
such assistance to the Board in such manner and accompanied by such
information as the Board may reasonably require.

SEC. 103. CANDIDATE COUNTRY.

(a) In General.--A country is a candidate country for the purposes
of this Act--
(1) during fiscal year 2004, if such country is eligible to
receive loans from the International Development Association;
(2) during fiscal year 2005, if the per capita income of
such country is less than the historical per capita income
cutoff of the International Development Association for that
year; and
(3) during any fiscal year after 2005--
(A) for which more than $5,000,000,000 has been
appropriated to the Millennium Challenge Account, if
the country is classified as a lower middle income
country by the World Bank on the first day of such
fiscal year; or
(B) for which not more than $5,000,000,000 has been
appropriated to such Millennium Challenge Account, the
per capita income of such country is less than the
historical per capita income cutoff of the
International Development Association for that year.
(b) Limitation on Assistance to Certain Candidate Countries.--In a
fiscal year in which subparagraph (A) of subsection (a)(3) applies with
respect to determining candidate countries, not more than 20 percent of
the amounts appropriated to the Millennium Challenge Account shall be
available for assistance to countries that would not be candidate
countries if subparagraph (B) of subsection (a)(3) applied during such
year.

SEC. 104. ELIGIBLE COUNTRY.

(a) Determination by the Board.--The Board shall determine whether
a candidate country is an eligible country by evaluating the
demonstrated commitment of the government of the candidate country to--
(1) just and democratic governance, including a
demonstrated commitment to--
(A) promote political pluralism and the rule of
law;
(B) respect human and civil rights;
(C) protect private property rights;
(D) encourage transparency and accountability of
government; and
(E) limit corruption;
(2) economic freedom, including a demonstrated commitment
to economic policies that--
(A) encourage citizens and firms to participate in
global trade and international capital markets;
(B) promote private sector growth; and
(C) strengthen market forces in the economy; and
(3) investments in the people of such country, including
improving the availability of educational opportunities and
health care for all citizens of such country.
(b) Assessing Eligibility.--
(1) In general.--To evaluate the demonstrated commitment of
a candidate country for the purposes of subsection (a), the
Board shall use objective and quantifiable indicators of a
candidate country's performance with respect to the criteria
described in paragraphs (1), (2), and (3) of such subsection.
(2) Annual publication of indicators.--
(A) Initial publication.--Not later than 45 days
prior to the final publication of indicators under
subparagraph (B) in any year, the Board shall publish
in the Federal Register and make available on the
Internet the indicators that the Board proposes to use
for the purposes of paragraph (1) in such year.
(B) Final publication.--Not later than 15 days
prior to the selection of eligible countries in any
year, the Board shall publish in the Federal Register
and make available on the Internet the indicators that
are to be used for the purposes of paragraph (1) in
such year.
(3) Consideration of public comment.--The Board shall
consider any comments on the proposed indicators published
under paragraph (2)(A) that are received within 30 days after
the publication of such indicators when selecting the
indicators to be used for the purposes of paragraph (1).

SEC. 105. ELIGIBLE ENTITY.

(a) Assistance.--Any eligible entity may receive assistance under
this Act to carry out a project in an eligible country for the purpose
of making progress toward achieving an objective of a Millennium
Challenge Contract.
(b) Determinations of Eligibility.--The Board shall determine
whether a person or governmental entity is an eligible entity for the
purposes of this section.
(c) Eligible Entities.--For the purposes of this section, an
eligible entity is--
(1) a government, including a local or regional government;
or
(2) a nongovernmental organization or other private entity.

SEC. 106. MILLENNIUM CHALLENGE CONTRACT.

(a) In General.--The Board shall invite the government of an
eligible country to enter into a Millennium Challenge Contract with the
Corporation. A Millennium Challenge Contract shall establish a
multiyear plan for the eligible country to achieve specific objectives
consistent with the purposes set out in section 2(b).
(b) Content.--A Millennium Challenge Contract shall include--
(1) specific objectives to be achieved by the eligible
country during the term of the Contract;
(2) a description of the actions to be taken by the
government of the eligible country and the United States
Government for achieving such objectives;
(3) the role and contribution of private entities,
nongovernmental organizations, and other organizations in
achieving such objectives;
(4) a description of beneficiaries, to the extent possible
disaggregated by gender;
(5) regular benchmarks for measuring progress toward
achieving such objectives;
(6) a schedule for achieving such objectives;
(7) a schedule of evaluations to be performed to determine
whether the country is meeting its commitments under the
Contract;
(8) a statement that the Corporation intends to consider
the eligible country's performance in achieving such objectives
in making decisions about providing continued assistance under
the Contract;
(9) the strategy of the eligible country to sustain
progress made toward achieving such objectives after the
expiration of the Contract;
(10) a plan to ensure financial accountability for any
assistance provided to a person or government in the eligible
country under this Act; and
(11) a statement that nothing in the Contract may be
construed to create a legally binding or enforceable obligation
on the United States Government or on the Corporation.
(c) Requirement for Consultation.--The Corporation shall seek to
ensure that the government of an eligible country consults with private
entities and nongovernmental organizations in the eligible country for
the purpose of ensuring that the terms of a Millennium Challenge
Contract entered into by the Corporation and the eligible country--
(1) reflect the needs of the rural and urban poor in the
eligible country; and
(2) provide means to assist poor men and women in the
eligible country to escape poverty through their own efforts.

SEC. 107. SUSPENSION OF ASSISTANCE TO AN ELIGIBLE COUNTRY.

The Secretary of State shall direct the CEO to suspend the
provision of assistance to an eligible country under a Millennium
Challenge Contract during any period for which such eligible country is
ineligible to receive assistance under a provision of the Foreign
Assistance Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2151 et seq.).

SEC. 108. DISCLOSURE.

(a) Requirement for Disclosure.--The Corporation shall make
available to the public on a continuous basis and on the earliest
possible date, the following information:
(1) A list of the candidate countries determined to be
eligible countries during any year.
(2) The text of each Millennium Challenge Contract entered
into by the Corporation.
(3) For assistance provided under this Act--
(A) the name of each entity to which assistance is
provided;
(B) the amount of assistance provided to the
entity; and
(C) a description of the program or project for
which assistance was provided.
(4) For each eligible country, an assessment of--
(A) the progress made during each year by an
eligible country toward achieving the objectives set
out in the Millennium Challenge Contract entered into
by the eligible country; and
(B) the extent to which assistance provided under
this Act has been effective in helping the eligible
country to achieve such objectives.
(b) Dissemination.--The information required to be disclosed under
subsection (a) shall be made available to the public by means of
publication in the Federal Register and posting on the Internet, as
well as by any other methods that the Board determines appropriate.

SEC. 109. ANNUAL REPORT TO CONGRESS.

Not later than January 31 of each year, the President shall submit
to Congress a report on the assistance provided under this Act during
the prior fiscal year. The report shall include--
(1) information regarding obligations and expenditures for
assistance provided to each eligible country in the prior
fiscal year;
(2) a discussion, for each eligible country, of the
objectives of such assistance;
(3) a description of the coordination of assistance under
this Act with other United States foreign assistance and
related trade policies;
(4) a description of the coordination of assistance under
this Act with the contributions of other donors; and
(5) any other information the President considers relevant
to assistance provided under this Act.

TITLE II--STRUCTURE, FUNCTION, AND POWERS OF THE MILLENNIUM CHALLENGE
CORPORATION

SEC. 201. CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER.

(a) In General.--The President shall appoint, by and with the
advice and consent of the Senate, a chief executive officer of the
Corporation.
(b) Relationship to the Secretary of State.--The CEO shall report
to and be under the direct authority and foreign policy guidance of the
Secretary of State. The Secretary of State shall coordinate the
provision of United States foreign assistance.
(c) Duties.--The CEO shall, in consultation with the Board, direct
the performance of all functions and the exercise of all powers of the
Corporation, including--
(1) ensuring program and policy coordination among agencies
of the United States Government in carrying out this Act;
(2) ensuring that assistance under this Act is coordinated
with other United States economic assistance programs;
(3) pursuing coordination with other countries and
international organizations with respect to assistance to
countries receiving assistance under this Act;
(4) ensuring proper management, implementation, and
oversight by agencies of the United States Government
responsible for assistance under this Act; and
(5) resolving policy, program, and funding disputes among
agencies of the United States Government involved in carrying
out this Act.
(d) Executive Level II.--Section 5313 of title 5, United States
Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
``Chief Executive Officer, Millennium Challenge
Corporation.''.

SEC. 202. MILLENNIUM CHALLENGE BOARD.

(a) Establishment of the Board.--There is established a Millennium
Challenge Board.
(b) Composition.--The Board shall be composed of the following
members:
(1) The Secretary of State, who shall serve as the Chair of
the Board.
(2) The Secretary of the Treasury.
(3) The Administrator of the United States Agency for
International Development.
(4) The CEO.
(5) The United States Trade Representative.
(c) Functions of the Board.--The Board shall perform the functions
specified to be carried out by the Board in this Act.

SEC. 203. COORDINATION WITH USAID.

(a) Requirement for Coordination.--An employee of the Corporation
assigned to a United States diplomatic mission or consular post or a
United States Agency for International Development field mission in a
foreign country shall, in a manner that is consistent with the
authority of the Chief of Mission, coordinate the performance of the
functions of the Corporation in such country with the officer in charge
of the United States Agency of International Development programs
located in such country.
(b) USAID Programs.--The Administrator of the United States Agency
for International Development shall seek to ensure that appropriate
programs of the Agency play a primary role in preparing candidate
countries to become eligible countries under section 104.

SEC. 204. POWERS OF THE CORPORATION.

(a) Powers.--The Corporation--
(1) shall have perpetual succession unless dissolved by an
Act of Congress;
(2) may adopt, alter, and use a seal, which shall be
judicially noticed;
(3) may prescribe, amend, and repeal such rules,
regulations, and procedures as may be necessary for carrying
out the functions of the Corporation;
(4) may make and perform such contracts, grants, and other
agreements with any person or government however designated and
wherever situated, as may be necessary for carrying out the
functions of the Corporation;
(5) may determine and prescribe the manner in which its
obligations shall be incurred and its expenses allowed and
paid, including expenses for representation;
(6) may lease, purchase, or otherwise acquire, improve, and
use such real property wherever situated, as may be necessary
for carrying out the functions of the Corporation;
(7) may accept cash gifts or donations of services or of
property (real, personal, or mixed), tangible or intangible,
for the purpose of carrying out the provisions of this Act;
(8) may use the United States mails in the same manner and
on the same conditions as the executive departments of
Government;
(9) may contract with individuals for personal services,
who shall not be considered Federal employees for any provision
of law administered by the Office of Personnel Management;
(10) may hire or obtain passenger motor vehicles; and
(11) shall have such other powers as may be necessary and
incident to carrying out this Act.
(b) Contracting Authority.--The functions and powers authorized by
this Act may be performed without regard to any provision of law
regulating the making, performance, amendment, or modification of
contracts, grants, and other agreements.

SEC. 205. PRINCIPAL OFFICE.

The Corporation shall maintain its principal office in the
metropolitan area of Washington, District of Columbia.

SEC. 206. PERSONNEL AUTHORITIES.

(a) Requirement To Prescribe a Human Resources Management System.--
The CEO shall, jointly with the Director of the Office of Personnel
Management, prescribe regulations that establish a human resources
management system, including a retirement benefits program, for the
Corporation.
(b) Relationship to Other Laws.--
(1) Inapplicability of certain laws.--Except as provided in
paragraph (2), the provisions of title 5, United States Code,
and of the Foreign Service Act of 1980 (22 U.S.C. 3901 et seq.)
shall not apply to the human resource management program
established pursuant to paragraph (1).
(2) Application of certain laws.--The human resources
management system established pursuant to subsection (a) may
not waive, modify, or otherwise affect the application to
employees of the Corporation of the following provisions:
(A) Section 2301 of title 5, United States Code.
(B) Section 2302(b) of such title.
(C) Chapter 63 of such title (relating to leave).
(D) Chapter 72 of such title (relating to
antidiscrimination).
(E) Chapter 73 of such title (relating to
suitability, security, and conduct).
(F) Chapter 81 of such title (relating to
compensation for work injuries).
(G) Chapter 85 of such title (relating to
unemployment compensation).
(H) Chapter 87 of such title (relating to life
insurance).
(I) Chapter 89 of such title (relating to health
insurance).
(J) Chapter 90 of such title (relating to long-term
care insurance).
(3) Relationship to retirement benefits laws.--The
retirement benefits program referred to in subsection (a) shall
permit the employees of the Corporation to be eligible, unless
the CEO determines otherwise, for benefits under--
(A) subchapter III of chapter 83 and chapter 84 of
title 5, United States Code (relating to retirement
benefits); or
(B) chapter 8 of title I of the Foreign Service Act
of 1980 (22 U.S.C. 4041 et seq.) (relating to the
Foreign Service Retirement and Disability System).
(c) Appointment and Termination.--Except as otherwise provided in
this section, the CEO may, without regard to any civil service or
Foreign Service law or regulation, appoint and terminate employees as
may be necessary to enable the Corporation to perform its duties.
(d) Compensation.--
(1) Authority to fix compensation.--Subject to the
provisions of paragraph (2), the CEO may fix the compensation
of employees of the Corporation.
(2) Limitations on compensation.--The compensation for an
employee of the Corporation may not exceed the lesser of--
(A) the rate of compensation established under
title 5, United States Code, or any Foreign Service law
for an employee of the Federal Government who holds a
position that is comparable to the position held by the
employee of the Corporation; or
(B) the rate of pay prescribed for level IV of the
Executive Schedule under section 5315 of title 5,
United States Code.
(e) Term of Employment.--
(1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraphs (2) and
(3), no individual may be employed by the Corporation for a
total period of employment that exceeds 5 years.
(2) Excepted positions.--The CEO, and not more than 3 other
employees of the Corporation who are designated by the CEO, may
be employed by the Corporation for an unlimited period of
employment.
(3) Waiver.--The CEO may waive the maximum term of
employment described in paragraph (1) if the CEO determines
that such waiver is essential to the achievement of the
purposes of this Act.
(f) Authority for Temporary Employees.--The CEO may procure
temporary and intermittent services under section 3109(b) of title 5,
United States Code, at rates for individuals which do not exceed the
daily equivalent of the annual rate of basic pay prescribed for level V
of the Executive Schedule under section 5316 of such title.
(g) Detail of Federal Employees to the Corporation.--Any Federal
Government employee may be detailed to the Corporation on a fully or
partially reimbursable or on a nonreimbursable basis, and such detail
shall be without interruption or loss of civil service or Foreign
Service status or privilege.
(h) Reinstatement.--An employee of the Federal Government serving
under a career or career conditional appointment, or the equivalent, in
a Federal agency who transfers to or converts to an appointment in the
Corporation with the consent of the head of the agency is entitled to
be returned to the employee's former position or a position of like
seniority, status, and pay without grade or pay reduction in the agency
if the employee--
(1) is being separated from the Corporation for reasons
other than misconduct, neglect of duty, or malfeasance; and
(2) applies for return to the agency not later than 30 days
before the date of the termination of the employment in the
Corporation.

SEC. 207. PERSONNEL OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES.

(a) Assignment to United States Embassies.--An employee of the
Corporation, including an individual detailed to or contracted by the
Corporation, may be assigned to a United States diplomatic mission or
consular post or a United States Agency for International Development
field mission.
(b) Privileges and Immunities.--The Secretary of State shall seek
to ensure that an employee of the Corporation, including an individual
detailed to or contracted by the Corporation, and the members of the
family of such employee, while the employee is performing duties in any
country or place outside the United States, enjoy the privileges and
immunities that are enjoyed by a member of the Foreign Service, or the
family of a member of the Foreign Service, as appropriate, of
comparable rank and salary of such employee, if such employee or a
member of the family of such employee is not a national of or
permanently resident in such country or place.
(c) Responsibility of Chief of Mission.--An employee of the
Corporation, including an individual detailed to or contracted by the
Corporation, and a member of the family of such employee, shall be
subject to section 207 of the Foreign Service Act of 1980 (22 U.S.C.
3927) in the same manner as United States Government employees while
the employee is performing duties in any country or place outside the
United States if such employee or member of the family of such employee
is not a national of or permanently resident in such country or place.

SEC. 208. USE OF SERVICES OF OTHER AGENCIES.

The Corporation may utilize the information services, facilities
and personnel of, or procure commodities from, any agency of the United
States Government on a fully or partially reimbursable or
nonreimbursable basis under such terms and conditions as may be agreed
to by the head of such agency and the Corporation for carrying out this
Act.

SEC. 209. ADMINISTRATIVE AUTHORITIES.

The Corporation is authorized to use any of the administrative
authorities contained in the State Department Basic Authorities Act of
1956 (22 U.S.C. 2651a et seq.) and the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961
(22 U.S.C. 2151 et seq.) unless such authority is inconsistent with a
provision of this Act.

SEC. 210. APPLICABILITY OF CHAPTER 91 OF TITLE 31, UNITED STATES CODE.

The Corporation shall be subject to chapter 91 of title 31, United
States Code.

TITLE III--THE MILLENNIUM CHALLENGE ACCOUNT AND AUTHORIZATION OF
APPROPRIATIONS

SEC. 301. ESTABLISHMENT OF THE MILLENNIUM CHALLENGE ACCOUNT.

There is established on the books of the Treasury an account to be
known as the Millennium Challenge Account that shall be administered by
the CEO under the direction of the Board. All amounts made available to
carry out the provisions of this Act shall be deposited into such
Account and such amounts shall be available to carry out such
provisions.

SEC. 302. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.

(a) In General.--There are authorized to be appropriated to carry
out the provisions of this Act $1,000,000,000 for fiscal year 2004,
$2,300,000,000 for fiscal year 2005, and $5,000,000,000 for fiscal year
2006.
(b) Availability.--Funds appropriated under subsection (a)--
(1) are authorized to remain available until expended,
subject to appropriations acts; and
(2) are in addition to funds otherwise available for such
purposes.
(c) Allocation of Funds.--
(1) In general.--The Corporation may allocate or transfer
to any agency of the United States Government any of the funds
available for carrying out this Act. Such funds shall be
available for obligation and expenditure for the purposes for
which authorized, in accordance with authority granted in this
Act or under authority governing the activities of the agencies
of the United States Government to which such funds are
allocated or transferred.
(2) Notification.--The notification requirements of section
634A(a) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2394-
1(a)) shall apply to any allocation or transfer of funds made
pursuant to paragraph (1).
<all>