The Colorado School Assessment Program (CSAP) scores were released this morning. The Denver Post states "results of the annual Colorado Student Assessment Program released today showed scores in key academic areas were flat for most of the state's public school students" (from "CSAP Progress on Pause").
Want to see the data? You can either view it from the Denver Post web site or the Colorado Board of Education site (which has reports back to 1997).
Still want more education resources? Check out the library's guide.
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Congressional Research Service reports found this week
The Congressional Research Service (CRS) is a research agency for the U.S. Congress and writes reports at their request. This is NOT a complete list of recent reports, only members of Congress have access to a complete list, but these are reports requested from Congress by members of the public, like you. If you want to request a report, just talk to your local Representative or Senator. This week brings us the following series of CRS reports, courtesy of Secrecy News and OpenCRS:
Not on campus, but still want access to additional reports? The library has a guide linking to various additional sources of CRS reports.
- Nuclear Warheads: The Reliable Replacement Warhead Program and the Life Extension Program
- Nuclear Weapons: The Reliable Replacement Warhead Program
- Nuclear Weapons: Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty
- Nonproliferation and Threat Reduction Assistance: U.S. Programs in the Former Soviet Union
- North Korea's Nuclear Weapons Development and Diplomacy
- Congress’s Contempt Power: Law, History, Practice, and Procedure
- Supreme Court Appointment Process: Roles of the President, Judiciary Committee, and Senate
- U.N. Convention Against Torture (CAT): Overview and Application to Interrogation Techniques
- Zimbabwe: Current Issues
- Haiti: Developments and U.S. Policy Since 1991 and Current Congressional Concerns
- Japan's Currency Intervention: Policy Issues
- Kosovo and U.S. Policy: Background and Current Issues
- Kosovo's Future Status and U.S. Policy
- Federal Crime Control: Background, Legislation, and Issues
- Sea-Based Ballistic Missile Defense -- Background and Issues for Congress
- U.S.-Japan Economic Relations: Significance, Prospects, and Policy Options
- Navy Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) Program: Oversight Issues and Options for Congress
- U.S. Army and Marine Corps Equipment Requirements: Background and Issues for Congress
- Pakistan: Significant Recent Events, March 26 - June 21, 2007
- Ballistic Missile Defense: Historical Overview
Not on campus, but still want access to additional reports? The library has a guide linking to various additional sources of CRS reports.
Friday, July 27, 2007
NASA report on medical and behavioral health
The title of this report sounds a bit uninteresting, but the content itself is very revealing. NASA formed a committee to look into medical and behavioral health services at Johnson Space Center after the arrest of former astronaut Lisa Nowak. This committee looked at a number of issues (from the opening remarks): delivery of medical and behavioral health care for NASA astronauts, development of an astronaut code of conduct, structure of the Astronaut Office, and alcohol use by astronauts before flight.
You can read the full report, as well as associated fact sheets from the NASA web site.
Finally, if you want to skip the report and just read a summary, check out the Washington Post's "NASA Ignored Warnings of Drunk Astronaut."
Want more resources on space? Check out the library's guide.
You can read the full report, as well as associated fact sheets from the NASA web site.
Finally, if you want to skip the report and just read a summary, check out the Washington Post's "NASA Ignored Warnings of Drunk Astronaut."
Want more resources on space? Check out the library's guide.
GAO Reports for the week
The Government Accountability Office (GAO) is often called the investigative arm of Congress. This week they investigated a variety of issues, such as agriculture, forests, and retirement. If you would like to know more about the GAO, check out the library's guide.
Reports
Reports
- Nuclear Safety: Construction of the Protective Shelter for the Chernobyl Nuclear Reactor Faces Schedule Delays, Potential Cost Increases, and Technical Uncertainties. GAO-07-923, July 19.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-923
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07923high.pdf - Federal Timber Sales: Forest Service Could Improve Efficiency of Field-Level Timber Sales Management by Maintaining More Detailed Data. GAO-07-764, June 27.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-764
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07764high.pdf - Information Security: Despite Reported Progress, Federal Agencies Need to Address Persistent Weaknesses. GAO-07-837, July 27.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-837
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07837high.pdf - Information Management: The National Archives and Records Administration's Fiscal Year 2007 Expenditure Plan. GAO-07-987, July 27.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-987
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07987high.pdf - DOD Business Transformation: Lack of an Integrated Strategy Puts the Army's Asset Visibility System Investments at Risk. GAO-07-860, July 27.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-860
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07860high.pdf - Public Transportation: Future Demand Is Likely for New Starts and Small Starts Programs, but Improvements Needed to the Small Starts Application Process. GAO-07-917, July 27.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-917
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07917high.pdf - Human Trafficking: Monitoring and Evaluation of International Projects Are Limited, but Experts Suggest Improvements. GAO-07-1034, July 26.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1034
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071034high.pdf - Human Trafficking: A Strategic Framework Could Help Enhance the Interagency Collaboration Needed to Effectively Combat Trafficking Crimes. GAO-07-915, July 26.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-915
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07915high.pdf - Millennium Challenge Corporation: Vanuatu Compact Overstates Projected Program Impact. GAO-07-909, July 11.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-909
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07909high.pdf - Higher Education: Information Sharing Could Help Institutions Identify and Address Challenges Some Asian Americans and Pacific Islander Students Face. GAO-07-925, July 25.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-925
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07925high.pdf - Federal Family Education Loan Program: Eliminating the Exceptional Performer Designation Would Result in Substantial Savings without Adversely Affecting the Loan Program. GAO-07-1087, July 26.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1087 - Surface Transportation: Strategies Are Available for Making Existing Road Infrastructure Perform Better. GAO-07-920, July 26.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-920
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07920high.pdf - Highway and Transit Investments: Flexible Funding Supports State and Local Transportation Priorities and Multimodal Planning. GAO-07-772, July 26.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-772
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07772high.pdf - U.S. Postal Service: Mail Processing Realignment Efforts Under Way Need Better Integration and Explanation. GAO-07-717, June 21.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-717
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07717high.pdf - Property Management: Lack of Accountability and Weak Internal Controls Leave NASA Equipment Vulnerable to Loss, Theft, and Misuse. GAO-07-432, June 25.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-432
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07432high.pdf - NASA Supplier Base: Challenges Exist in Transitioning from the Space Shuttle Program to the Next Generation of Human Space Flight Systems. GAO-07-940, July 25.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-940
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07940high.pdf - Medicaid: States Reported That Citizenship Documentation Requirement Resulted in Enrollment Declines for Eligible Citizens and Posed Administrative Burdens. GAO-07-889, June 28.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-889
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07889high.pdf - Tax Compliance: Thousands of Organizations Exempt from Federal Income Tax Owe Nearly $1 Billion in Payroll and Other Taxes. GAO-07-563, June 29.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-563
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07563high.pdf - Veterans Affairs: Inadequate Controls over IT Equipment at Selected VA Locations Pose Continuing Risk of Theft, Loss, and Misappropriation. GAO-07-505, July 16.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-505
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07505high.pdf - September 11: HHS Needs to Ensure the Availability of Health Screening and Monitoring for All Responders. GAO-07-892, July 23.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-892
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07892high.pdf - Federal Farm Programs: USDA Needs to Strengthen Controls to Prevent Improper Payments to Estates and Deceased Individuals. GAO-07-818, July 9.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-818
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07818high.pdf - Cybercrime: Public and Private Entities Face Challenges in Addressing Cyber Threats. GAO-07-705, June 22.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-705
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07705high.pdf - Federal Real Property: DHS Has Made Progress, but Additional Actions Are Needed to Address Real Property Management and Security Challenges. GAO-07-658, June 22.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-658
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07658high.pdf - Hanford Waste Treatment Plant: Department of Energy Needs to Strengthen Controls over Contractor Payments and Project Assets. GAO-07-888, July 20.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-888
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07888high.pdf - Influenza Pandemic: DOD Combatant Commands' Preparedness Efforts Could Benefit from More Clearly Defined Roles, Resources, and Risk Mitigation. GAO-07-696, June 20.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-696
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07696high.pdf - Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board: Many Responsibilities and Investment Policies Set by Congress. GAO-07-611, June 21.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-611
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07611high.pdf - Financial Audit: Significant Internal Control Weaknesses Remain in the Preparation of the Consolidated Financial Statements of the U.S. Government. GAO-07-805, July 23.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-805
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07805high.pdf - Information Technology: Treasury Needs to Strengthen Its Investment Board Operations and Oversight. GAO-07-865, July 23.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-865
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07865high.pdf
- Public Transportation: Survey of Project Sponsors on Their Transit Projects and Experience with the Federal Transit Administration's New Starts and Small Starts Programs. GAO-07-927SP, July 27. [Internet only]
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-927SP
- Global War on Terrorism: Reported Obligations for the Department of Defense. GAO-07-1056R, July 26.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1056R - Military Personnel: The Navy Has Not Provided Adequate Justification For Its Decision to Invest in MCTFS. GAO-07-1139R, July 25.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1139R - Food and Drug Administration: Methodologies for Identifying and Allocating Costs of Reviewing Medical Device Applications Are Consistent with Federal Cost Accounting Standards, and Staffing Levels for Reviews Have Generally Increased in Recent Years. GAO-07-882R, June 25.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-882R
- Export Controls: Vulnerabilities and Inefficiencies Undermine System's Ability to Protect U.S. Interests, by Ann Calvaresi Barr, director, acquisition and sourcing management, before the Subcommittee on Terrorism, Nonproliferation, and Trade, House Committee on Foreign Affairs. GAO-07-1135T, July 26.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1135T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071135thigh.pdf - U.S. Postal Service: Progress Made in Implementing Mail Processing Realignment Efforts, but Better Integration and Performance Measurement Still Needed, by Katherine Siggerud, director, physical infrastructure issues, before the Subcommittee on the Federal Workforce, Postal Service, and the District of Columbia, House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. GAO-07-1083T, July 26.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1083T - 2010 Census: Diversity in Human Capital, Outreach Efforts Can Benefit the 2010 Census, by Mathew J. Scire, director, strategic issues, before the Subcommittee on Information Policy, Census, and National Archives, House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. GAO-07-1132T, July 26.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1132T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071132thigh.pdf - Millennium Challenge Corporation: Projected Impact of Vanuatu Compact Is Overstated, by David B. Gootnick, director, international affairs and trade, before the Subcommittee on Asia, the Pacific, and the Global Environment, House Committee on Foreign Affairs. GAO-07-1122T, July 26.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1122T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071122thigh.pdf - Federal Housing Administration: Proposed Legislative Changes Would Affect Borrower Benefits and Risks to the Insurance Funds, by William B. Shear, director, financial markets and community investment, before the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. GAO-07-1109T, July 18.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1109T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071109thigh.pdf - Long-Term Fiscal Challenge: Additional Transparency and Controls Are Needed, by David M. Walker, comptroller general of the United States, before the House Committee on the Budget. GAO-07-1144T, July 25.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1144T - Compact of Free Association: Implementation Activities Have Progressed, but the Marshall Islands Faces Challenges to Achieving Long-Term Compact Goals, by David B. Gootnick, director, international affairs and trade, before the Subcommittee on Asia, the Pacific, and the Global Environment, House Committee on Foreign Affairs. GAO-07-1125T, July 25.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1125T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071125thigh.pdf - Environmental Justice: Measurable Benchmarks Needed to Gauge EPA Progress in Correcting Past Problems, by John B. Stephenson, director, natural resources and environment, before the Subcommittee on Superfund and Environmental Health, Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works. GAO-07-1140T, July 25.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1140T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071140thigh.pdf - Small Business Administration: Response to the Gulf Coast Hurricanes Highlights Need for Enhanced Disaster Preparedness, by William B. Shear, director, financial markets and community investment, before the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship. GAO-07-1124T, July 25.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1124T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071124thigh.pdf - Inspectors General: Opportunities to Enhance Independence and Accountability, statement for the record by David M. Walker, comptroller general of the United States, before the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. GAO-07-1089T, July 11.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1089T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071089thigh.pdf - Nonprofit Sector: Increasing Numbers and Key Role in Delivering Federal Services, by Stanley J. Czerwinski, director, strategic issues, before the Subcommittee on Oversight, House Committee on Ways and Means. GAO-07-1084T, July 24.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1084T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071084thigh.pdf - Tax Compliance: Thousands of Organizations Exempt from Federal Income Tax Owe Nearly $1 Billion in Payroll and Other Taxes, by Gregory D. Kutz, managing director, forensic audits and special investigations, before the Subcommittee on Oversight, House Committee on Ways and Means. GAO-07-1090T, July 24.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1090T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071090thigh.pdf - Federal Farm Programs: USDA Needs to Strengthen Management Controls to Prevent Improper Payments to Estates and Deceased Individuals, by Lisa R. Shames, director, natural resources and environment, before the Senate Committee on Finance. GAO-07-1137T, July 24.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1137T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071137thigh.pdf - Homeland Security: DHS Privacy Office Has Made Progress but Faces Continuing Challenges, by Linda D. Koontz, director, information management issues, before a joint hearing of the Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights, and Civil Liberties and the Subcommittee on Commercial and Administrative Law, House Committee on the Judiciary. GAO-07-1024T, July 24.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1024T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071024thigh.pdf - Compact of Free Association: Implementation Activities Have Progressed, but the Marshall Islands Faces Challenges to Achieving Long-Term Compact Goals, by David B. Gootnick, director, international affairs and trade, before the Subcommittee on Insular Affairs, House Committee on Natural Resources. GAO-07-1115T, July 24.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1115T - NASA: Challenges in Completing and Sustaining the International Space Station, by Cristina T. Chaplain, director, acquisition and sourcing management, before the Subcommittee on Space and Aeronautics, House Committee on Science and Technology. GAO-07-1121T, July 24.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1121T - Defense Acquisitions: Realistic Business Cases Needed to Execute Navy Shipbuilding Programs, by Paul L. Francis, director, acquisition and sourcing management team, before the Subcommittee on Seapower and Expeditionary Forces, House Committee on Armed Services. GAO-07-943T, July 24.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-943T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07943thigh.pdf - Veterans Affairs: Lack of Accountability and Control Weaknesses over IT Equipment at Selected VA Locations, by McCoy Williams, director, financial management and assurance, before the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, House Committee on Veterans' Affairs. GAO-07-1100T, July 24.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1100T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071100thigh.pdf
- Government Auditing Standards, July 2007 Revision. GAO-07-731G, July 2007.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-731G
The United States and the European Union Sign Agreement for Passenger Name Record Data Sharing
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) signed an agreement with the European Union (EU) that will allow the Department of Homeland Security to continue using Passenger Name Record (PNR) data as "an essential screening tool for detecting potentially dangerous transatlantic travelers." The 2007 PNR Agreement allows the DHS to collect 19 types of PNR data. This data will be kept in an active file for seven years, and in a dormant file for eight additional years. PNR data includes names, addresses, credit card information, telephone numbers, e-mail addresses, itineraries, and hotel and rental car reservations.
Read the statement by Homeland Security Michael Chertoff about the agreement here. Read about the May 2004 International Agreement on transfer of Passenger Name Records (PNR) here.
Want more information about the agreement? Check out the Washington Post's Travelers Face Greater Use of Personal Data: Pact Covers Passengers Flying From Europe to U.S., and US, EU Sign Deal on Air Passenger Data from the New York Times.
Want more information? Check out the library's guides on European Union Resources, Homeland Security, Travel Information, and the War Against Terrorism.
Read the statement by Homeland Security Michael Chertoff about the agreement here. Read about the May 2004 International Agreement on transfer of Passenger Name Records (PNR) here.
Want more information about the agreement? Check out the Washington Post's Travelers Face Greater Use of Personal Data: Pact Covers Passengers Flying From Europe to U.S., and US, EU Sign Deal on Air Passenger Data from the New York Times.
Want more information? Check out the library's guides on European Union Resources, Homeland Security, Travel Information, and the War Against Terrorism.
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
President's Commission on Care for America's Returning Wounded Warriors
The President's Commission on Care for America's Returning Wounded Warriors released their final report on care for returning veterans. They released this report after briefing President Bush this morning.
This report contains recommendations on how to improve the transition from wounded soldier to civilian. The commission's web site also has information on the commissioners and other fact sheets related to the report.
Want to read more about the report? Check out the Washington Post's "Commission calls for changes to military health system."
Want more information on the military? Check out the library's guide.
This report contains recommendations on how to improve the transition from wounded soldier to civilian. The commission's web site also has information on the commissioners and other fact sheets related to the report.
Want to read more about the report? Check out the Washington Post's "Commission calls for changes to military health system."
Want more information on the military? Check out the library's guide.
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
From the Congressional Research Service
The Congressional Research Service (CRS) is a research agency for the U.S. Congress and writes reports at their request. This week brings us reports on the military, China, Middle East, agriculture and much more. This is NOT a complete list of recent reports, only members of Congress have access to a complete list, but these are reports requested from Congress by members of the public, like you. If you want to request a report, just talk to your local Representative or Senator. Or you can check out these reports from OpenCRS and Secrecy News:
Not on campus, but still want access to additional reports? The library has a guide linking to various additional sources of CRS reports.
- Iraq: Post-Saddam Governance and Security," updated July 13, 2007
- Iraq: U.S. Military Operations," updated July 15, 2007.
- Iraq: Reconstruction Assistance," updated June 25, 2007.
- Post-War Iraq: Foreign Contributions to Training, Peacekeeping, and Reconstruction
- Iraq: Summary of U.S. Casualties," updated July 12, 2007.
- U.S. Embassy in Iraq," updated July 13, 2007.
- Iraq: Milestones Since the Ouster of Saddam Hussein," updated June 19, 2007.
- The Kurds in Post-Saddam Iraq," updated June 12, 2007.
- Iraq: Government Formation and Benchmarks," updated July 13, 2007.
- The Cost of Iraq, Afghanistan, and Other Global War on Terror Operations Since 9/11
- Presidential Claims of Executive Privilege: History, Law, Practice and Recent Developments
- The Palestinian Territories: Background and U.S. Relations," July 5, 2007.
- Restructuring EPA's Libraries: Background and Issues for Congress," updated June 15,
- U.S. Special Operations Forces (SOF): Background and Issues for Congress," updated June
- Airborne Laser (ABL): Issues for Congress," updated July 9, 2007.
- Hong Kong: Ten Years After the Handover," June 29, 2007.
- China's Economic Conditions," updated July 13, 2007.
- Taiwan: Major U.S. Arms Sales Since 1990," updated July 12, 2007.
- China-U.S. Trade Issues," updated July 11, 2007.
- China-U.S. Relations: Current Issues and Implications for U.S. Policy," updated June 14,
- Food and Agricultural Imports from China," updated July 17, 2007.
- The Southwest Pacific: U.S. Interests and China's Growing Influence," July 6, 2007.
- China's Currency: A Summary of the Economic Issues," updated July 11, 2007.
- NATO in Afghanistan: A Test of the Transatlantic Alliance," updated July 16, 2007.
- Afghanistan: Post-War Governance, Security, and U.S. Policy," updated June 21, 2007.
- Afghanistan: Narcotics and U.S. Policy," updated June 19, 2007.
- Afghanistan: Government Formation and Performance," updated June 15, 2007.
- Journalists' Privilege to Withhold Information in Judicial and Other Proceedings: State Shield Statutes," updated June 27, 2007.
- Federal Sentencing Guidelines: Background, Legal Analysis, and Policy Options," updated
- Critical Infrastructure: The National Asset Database," updated July 16, 2007.
- Chemical Facility Security: Regulation and Issues for Congress," updated June 21, 2007.
- Pipeline Safety and Security: Federal Programs," updated July 11, 2007.
- U.S. Foreign Assistance to the Middle East: Historical Background, Recent Trends, and the FY2008 Request," updated July 3, 2007.
- Libya: Background and U.S. Relations," updated June 19, 2007.
- U.S. Foreign Aid to Israel," updated April 25, 2007.
- Lebanon," updated July 11, 2007.
- The Iran Sanctions Act (ISA)," updated July 9, 2007.
- Iran's Influence in Iraq," updated July 9, 2007.
- Retransmission Consent and Other Federal Rules Affecting Programmer-Distributor Negotiations: Issues for Congress
- A Condensed Review of Retransmission Consent and Other Federal Rules Affecting Programmer Distributor Negotiations
- Farm and Food Support Under USDA's Section 32 Program
- Reconfiguring the Federal Pell Grant Program: Effect of Selected Changes on Program Costs and on Students in Different Income Groups
- Federal Budget Process Reform in the 110th Congress: A Brief Overview
- The Dollar's Future as the World's Reserve Currency: The Challenge of the Euro
- Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education: FY2008 Appropriations
- Election Year Restrictions on Mass Mailings by Members of Congress: How H.R. 1614 / S. 936 / S. 1285 Would Change Current Law
- Estonia: Current Issues and U.S. Policy
- Agricultural Research, Education, and Extension in the 2007 Farm Bill
- FDA Advisory Committee Conflict of Interest Reform Efforts in the 110th Congress
- Exon-Florio Foreign Investment Provision: Comparison of H.R. 556 and S. 1610
Not on campus, but still want access to additional reports? The library has a guide linking to various additional sources of CRS reports.
Monday, July 23, 2007
Minimum Wage Increase
The minimum wage will increase for the first time in 10 years tomorrow. Taking effect on Tuesday, July 24th, the minimum wage will rise from $5.15 an hour to $5.85 an hour. This is the first step in a three year process. Over the next two years the wage will gradually rise 70 cents each summer until 2009 when all minimum wage jobs must pay $7.25 per hour. The increase is a result of the Fair Minimum Wage Act of 2007 (H.R. 2). It was signed into law by President Bush on May 25, 2007.
Want to read more about the wage increase? Check out "Federal Minimum Wage to Rise by 70 Cents" from the Washington Post. Curious about what advocates and critics think of the act? Check out "Minimum wage boost first in 10 years" from CNN.
See current state minimum wage laws from the U.S. Department of Labor.
Want more information on legislation? Check out the library's guide. Want more information on labor and employment? Check out the library's guide.
Want to read more about the wage increase? Check out "Federal Minimum Wage to Rise by 70 Cents" from the Washington Post. Curious about what advocates and critics think of the act? Check out "Minimum wage boost first in 10 years" from CNN.
See current state minimum wage laws from the U.S. Department of Labor.
Want more information on legislation? Check out the library's guide. Want more information on labor and employment? Check out the library's guide.
Ice Cream, I need some Ice Cream
On July 23rd, 1904 (103 years ago today), Charles E. Menches of St. Louis claims to have come up with the idea of putting ice cream in a cone. Now there are other claims to this title, but all of them come from the 1904 World's Fair in St. Louis. Anyway you look at it on hot days like today a cone that keeps all the ice cream from dripping is definitely a plus!
Want to read more about the invention of ice cream cones and ice cream itself? Check out the Library of Congress's Today in History. Where not only will you find Thomas Jefferson's recipe for Vanilla Ice Cream, but you will also find links to pictures of children eating ice cream and other treasures from the American Memory collection.
Want more information on food? Check out the library's food supply guide.
Want to read more about the invention of ice cream cones and ice cream itself? Check out the Library of Congress's Today in History. Where not only will you find Thomas Jefferson's recipe for Vanilla Ice Cream, but you will also find links to pictures of children eating ice cream and other treasures from the American Memory collection.
Want more information on food? Check out the library's food supply guide.
Friday, July 20, 2007
GAO Reports for the week
The Government Accountability Office (GAO) is often called the investigative arm of Congress. This week they investigated a variety of issues, such as Iraq, transportation, and health care. If you would like to know more about the GAO, check out the library's guide.
Reports
Reports
- Military Personnel: Improved Quality Controls Needed over Servicemembers' Employment Rights Claims at DOL. GAO-07-907, July 20.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-907
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07907high.pdf - Defense Health Care: Comprehensive Oversight Framework Needed to Help Ensure Effective Implementation of a Deployment Health Quality Assurance Program. GAO-07-831, June 22.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-831
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07831high.pdf - National Marine Fisheries Service: Improved Economic Analysis and Evaluation Strategies Needed for Proposed Changes to Atlantic Large Whale Protection Plan. GAO-07-881, July 20.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-881
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07881high.pdf - Intermodal Transportation: DOT Could Take Further Actions to Address Intermodal Barriers. GAO-07-718, June 20.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-718
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07718high.pdf - Managerial Cost Accounting Practices: Implementation and Use Vary Widely across 10 Federal Agencies. GAO-07-679, July 20.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-679
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07679high.pdf - State and Local Governments: Persistent Fiscal Challenges Will Likely Emerge within the Next Decade. GAO-07-1080SP, July 18.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1080SP - U.S. Public Diplomacy: Actions Needed to Improve Strategic Use and Coordination of Research. GAO-07-904, July 18.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-904
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07904high.pdf - Military Personnel: DOD Lacks Reliable Personnel Tempo Data and Needs Quality Controls to Improve Data Accuracy. GAO-07-780, July 17.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-780
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07780high.pdf - Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation: Governance Structure Needs Improvements to Ensure Policy Direction and Oversight. GAO-07-808, July 6.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-808
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07808high.pdf - Homeland Security: DHS's Actions to Recruit and Retain Staff and Comply with the Vacancies Reform Act. GAO-07-758, July 16.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-758
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07758high.pdf - Human Capital: DOD Needs Better Internal Controls and Visibility over Costs for Implementing Its National Security Personnel System. GAO-07-851, July 16.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-851
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07851high.pdf
- Federal Contracting: Use of Contractor Performance Information, by William T. Woods, director, acquisition and sourcing management, before the Subcommittee on Government Management, Organization, and Procurement, House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. GAO-07-1111T, July 18.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1111T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071111thigh.pdf - Rebuilding Iraq: Serious Challenges Impair Efforts to Restore Iraq's Oil Sector and Enact Hydrocarbon Legislation, by Joseph A. Christoff, director, international affairs and trade, before a joint hearing of the Subcommittee on the Middle East and South Asia and the Subcommittee on International Organizations, Human Rights, and Oversight, House Committee on Foreign Affairs. GAO-07-1107T, July 18.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1107T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071107thigh.pdf - Information Technology: VA and DOD Are Making Progress in Sharing Medical Information, but Remain Far from Having Comprehensive Electronic Medical Records, by Valerie C. Melvin, director, human capital and management information systems issues, before the Veterans' Disability Benefits Commission. GAO-07-1108T, July 18.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1108T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071108thigh.pdf - 2010 Census: Preparations for the 2010 Census Underway, but Continued Oversight and Risk Management Are Critical, by Mathew J. Scire, director, strategic issues, and David A. Powner, director, information technology, before the Subcommittee on Federal Financial Management, Government Information, Federal Services, and International Security, Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. GAO-07-1106T, July 17.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1106T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071106thigh.pdf - Federal Acquisitions and Contracting: Systemic Challenges Need Attention, by David M. Walker, comptroller general of the United States, before the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. GAO-07-1098T, July 17.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1098T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071098thigh.pdf
- Services Provided to Victims of Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, Dating Violence, and Stalking. GAO-07-846R, July 19.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-846R - USCIS Transformation: Improvements to Performance, Human Capital, and Information Technology Management Needed as Modernization Proceeds. GAO-07-1013R, July 17.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1013R
- "Our Nation's Long-Term Fiscal Challenge: State and Local Governments Will Likely Face Persistent Fiscal Challenges in the Next Decade," by David M. Walker, comptroller general of the United States, at the National Press Club, Washington, D.C. GAO-07-1113CG, July 18.
http://www.gao.gov/cghome/d071113cg.pdf - "Saving Our Future Requires Tough Choices Today", by David M. Walker, comptroller general of the United States on the Fiscal Wake-Up Tour in Nashville, Tennessee. GAO-07-1116CG, July 16.
http://www.gao.gov/cghome/d071116cg.pdf
Thursday, July 19, 2007
World Drug Report
Antonio Maria Costa, Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, announced that "recent data show that the run-away train of drug addiction has slowed down" (from the press release). He made this announcement at the release of the World Drug Report.
This report analyzes the consumption, capture, and production of drugs across the world. It even has information on the prices of drugs across the world. If you want to watch some special video reports on what this report can state, check out the right side of the report page.
Want more information on this topic? Check out the library's alcohol, drug and tobacco use guide.
This report analyzes the consumption, capture, and production of drugs across the world. It even has information on the prices of drugs across the world. If you want to watch some special video reports on what this report can state, check out the right side of the report page.
Want more information on this topic? Check out the library's alcohol, drug and tobacco use guide.
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Senate pulls an all-nighter
For those of us on college campuses, the summer is generally our time off from all-nighters. (Unless you are taking a summer course.) Last night the Senate stayed open all night to debate the defense authorization bill (H.R. 1585). This bill had an amendment to have troops start returning in 120 days and complete the withdrawal by April 30, 2008. This amendment failed this morning on a 52-47 vote, which meant it couldn't overcome a Republican filibuster.
Want to read about the vote? Check out "Senate Scuttles Troop Withdrawal Bill" from the Washington Post. Interested in what was said overnight? Check out their "Slumber Party Politics on the Hill: The Democrats Take the Iraq War Strategy to the Mattresses."
The transcript from the debate last night won't be up until tomorrow, but you will be able to read it in the daily issue of the Congressional Record (it will be the July 17th Senate debates).
Want more information on Congress? Check out the library's guide. Want more information on Iraq? Check out the library's guide.
Want to read about the vote? Check out "Senate Scuttles Troop Withdrawal Bill" from the Washington Post. Interested in what was said overnight? Check out their "Slumber Party Politics on the Hill: The Democrats Take the Iraq War Strategy to the Mattresses."
The transcript from the debate last night won't be up until tomorrow, but you will be able to read it in the daily issue of the Congressional Record (it will be the July 17th Senate debates).
Want more information on Congress? Check out the library's guide. Want more information on Iraq? Check out the library's guide.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
National Intelligence Estimate
The Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) released a new report today, "National Intelligence Estimate: The Terrorist Threat to the US Homeland." Declassified key findings report that the United States will face a "persistent and evolving" terrorist threat in the next three years from Islamic terrorist groups and cells. Al-Qaida "is and will remain the most serious terrorist threat" to the US.
National Intelligence Estimates (NIEs) are the ODNI's most authoritative written judgments concerning national security issues. They contain the coordinated judgments of the Intelligence Community regarding the likely course of future events.
Read more about this in the Washington Post's "Intelligence Report Warns of al-Qaeda's Capabilities" and "Al-Qaida Likely to Attack US, Intel Says."
Want more information on intelligence? Check out the library's guide.
National Intelligence Estimates (NIEs) are the ODNI's most authoritative written judgments concerning national security issues. They contain the coordinated judgments of the Intelligence Community regarding the likely course of future events.
Read more about this in the Washington Post's "Intelligence Report Warns of al-Qaeda's Capabilities" and "Al-Qaida Likely to Attack US, Intel Says."
Want more information on intelligence? Check out the library's guide.
CRS reports this week
The Congressional Research Service (CRS) is a research agency for the U.S. Congress and writes reports at their request. This week brings us reports on the military, China, war powers and much more. This is NOT a complete list of recent reports, only members of Congress have access to a complete list, but these are reports requested from Congress by members of the public, like you. If you want to request a report, just talk to your local Representative or Senator. Or you can check out these reports from OpenCRS and Secrecy News:
Not on campus, but still want access to additional reports? The library has a guide linking to various additional sources of CRS reports.
- China's Currency: Economic Issues and Options for U.S. Trade Policy
- Military Airlift: C-17 Aircraft Program
- Indonesia: Domestic Politics, Strategic Dynamics, and American Interests
- The Global Peace Operations Initiative: Background and Issues for Congress
- Conventional Warheads For Long-Range Ballistic Missiles: Background and Issues for Congress
- War Powers Resolution: Presidential Compliance
- Navy Force Structure and Shipbuilding Plans: Background and Issues for Congress
- Navy DDG-1000 (DD(X)) and CG(X) Ship Acquisition Programs: Oversight Issues and Options for Congress
- Navy CG(X) Cruiser Design Options: Background and Oversight Issues for Congress
- Navy Attack Submarine Force-Level Goal and Procurement Rate: Background and Issues for Congress
- Navy-Marine Corps Amphibious and Maritime Prepositioning Ship Programs: Background and Oversight Issues for Congress
Not on campus, but still want access to additional reports? The library has a guide linking to various additional sources of CRS reports.
Monday, July 16, 2007
North Korea shuts down nuclear reactor
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has confirmed that North Korea has shut down their nuclear reactor. This is after a five-year standoff over the nuclear actions of the North Korea. You can view reports from the agency, UN actions and photos on the IAEA and DPRK web site.
Want to read more about this? Check out the Washington Post's "IAEA Says North Korea Has Shut Reactor."
Want more information on North Korea? Check out the library's guide.
Want to read more about this? Check out the Washington Post's "IAEA Says North Korea Has Shut Reactor."
Want more information on North Korea? Check out the library's guide.
Friday, July 13, 2007
GAO releases this week
The Government Accountability Office (GAO) is often called the investigative arm of Congress. This week they investigated a variety of issues, such as the child welfare, environment, and military. If you would like to know more about the GAO, check out the library's guide.
Reports
Reports
- Credit Derivatives: Confirmation Backlogs Increased Dealers' Operational Risks, but Were Successfully Addressed after Joint Regulatory Action. GAO-07-716, June 13.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-716
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07716high.pdf - Intercollegiate Athletics: Recent Trends in Teams and Participants in National Collegiate Athletic Association Sports. GAO-07-535, July 12.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-535
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07535high.pdf - Intercollegiate Athletics: Trends by Sport in National Collegiate Athletic Association Sports. GAO-07-744SP, July 12. [Internet only]
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-744SP - Retirement Decisions: Federal Policies Offer Mixed Signals about When to Retire. GAO-07-753, July 11.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-753
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07753high.pdf - Unmanned Aircraft Systems: Advance Coordination and Increased Visibility Needed to Optimize Capabilities. GAO-07-836, July 11.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-836
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07836high.pdf - Defense Logistics: Efforts to Improve Distribution and Supply Support for Joint Military Operations Could Benefit from a Coordinated Management Approach. GAO-07-807, June 29.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-807
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07807high.pdf - Weather Forecasting: National Weather Service's Operations Prototype Needs More Rigorous Planning. GAO-07-650, June 8.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-650
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07650high.pdf
- Environmental Contamination: Department of Defense Activities Related to Trichloroethylene, Perchlorate, and Other Emerging Contaminants, by John B. Stephenson, director, natural resources and environment, before the Subcommittee on Readiness, House Committee on Armed Services. GAO-07-1042T, July 12.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1042T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071042thigh.pdf - Nuclear Security: Actions Taken by NRC to Strengthen Its Licensing Process for Sealed Radioactive Sources Are Not Effective, by Gregory D. Kutz and John W. Cooney of GAO's forensic audits and special investigations unit; and Gene Aloise of GAO's natural resources and environment team, before the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations, Senate Commitee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. GAO-07-1038T, July 12.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1038T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071038thigh.pdf - Federal Aviation Administration: Viability of Current Funding Structure for Aviation Activities and Observations on Funding Provisions of Reauthorization Proposals, by Gerald L. Dillingham, director, physical infrastructure, before the Senate Committee on Finance. GAO-07-1104T, July 12.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1104T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071104thigh.pdf - Motor Carrier Safety: Preliminary Information on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's Efforts to Identify and Follow Up with High-risk Carriers, by Susan A. Fleming, director, physical infrastructure issues, before the Subcommittee on Highways and Transit, House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. GAO-07-1074T, July 11.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1074T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071074thigh.pdf - Critical Infrastructure: Sector Plans Complete and Sector Councils Evolving, by Eileen R. Larence, director, homeland security and justice issues, before the Subcommittee on State, Local, and Private Sector Preparedness and Integration, Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. GAO-07-1075T, July 12.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1075T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071075thigh.pdf - Energy Derivatives: Preliminary Views on Energy Derivatives Trading and CFTC Oversight, by Orice M. Williams, director, financial markets and community investment, before the Subcommittee on General Farm Commodities and Risk Management, House Committee on Agriculture. GAO-07-1095T, July 12.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1095T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071095thigh.pdf - Child Welfare: HHS Actions Would Help States Prepare Youth in the Foster Care System for Independent Living, by Cornelia M. Ashby, director, education, workforce, and income security issues, before the Subcommittee on Income Security and Family Support, House Committee on Ways and Means. GAO-07-1097T, July 12.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1097T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071097thigh.pdf - The BEACH Act of 2000: EPA and States Have Made Progress Implementing the Act, but Further Actions Could Increase Public Health Protection, by Anu K. Mittal, director, natural resources and environment, before the Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment, House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. GAO-07-1073T, July 12.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1073T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071073thigh.pdf - DOD's High-Risk Areas: Efforts to Improve Supply Chain Can Be Enhanced by Linkage to Outcomes, Progress in Transforming Business Operations, and Reexamination of Logistics Governance and Strategy, by William M. Solis, director, defense capabilities and management, before the Subcommittee on Oversight of Government Management, the Federal Workforce, and the District of Columbia, Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. GAO-07-1064T, July 10.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1064T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071064thigh.pdf - Environmental Satellite Acquisitions: Progress and Challenges, by David A. Powner, director, information technology management issues, before the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. GAO-07-1099T, July 11.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1099T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071099thigh.pdf
- Critical Infrastructure Protection: Sector Plans and Sector Councils Continue to Evolve. GAO-07-706R, July 10.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-706R
Thursday, July 12, 2007
White House report on Iraq
The White House released the Initial Benchmark Assessment Report (html and pdf) today. This report discusses the progress the government of Iraq has made in reaching benchmarks outlined in Section 1314 of the U.S. Troop Readiness, Veterans’ Care, Katrina Recovery, and Iraq Accountability Appropriations Act, 2007 (Public Law 110-28). The President conducted a press conference on the report this morning, which you can read or listen to on the White House web site.
Want to read about the media's reaction to this report? Check out the Washington Post article "White House Gives Iraq Mixed Marks on Report."
Want more on the Iraqi government? Check out the library's guide.
Want to read about the media's reaction to this report? Check out the Washington Post article "White House Gives Iraq Mixed Marks on Report."
Want more on the Iraqi government? Check out the library's guide.
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Court limits use of race in school admissions
On June 28, 2007 the Supreme Court limited the use of race when assigning students to public schools. The court split, 5-4, with Chief Justice John Roberts announcing the court’s judgment.
The petitioners (parents in Seattle, WA and Louisville, KY) filed suit against the Seattle and Louisville school districts contending that classifying and assigning students to schools based on race violated the Fourteenth Amendment's equal protection guarantee.
Read more about the two cases and the Supreme Court's decision in CNN's article "Divided court rejects school diversity plans" and "Divided Court Limits Use of Race by School Districts" in the Washington Post.
To read the Supreme Court's decision click here. To read the decision from Brown v. Board of Education (1955) click here.
Want more information on the Supreme Court? Check out the library guide.
Want more information on Affirmative Action and Civil Rights? Check out the library guide.
Want more information on Black History? Check out the library guide.
The petitioners (parents in Seattle, WA and Louisville, KY) filed suit against the Seattle and Louisville school districts contending that classifying and assigning students to schools based on race violated the Fourteenth Amendment's equal protection guarantee.
Read more about the two cases and the Supreme Court's decision in CNN's article "Divided court rejects school diversity plans" and "Divided Court Limits Use of Race by School Districts" in the Washington Post.
To read the Supreme Court's decision click here. To read the decision from Brown v. Board of Education (1955) click here.
Want more information on the Supreme Court? Check out the library guide.
Want more information on Affirmative Action and Civil Rights? Check out the library guide.
Want more information on Black History? Check out the library guide.
CRS reports this week
The Congressional Research Service (CRS) is a research agency for the U.S. Congress and writes reports at their request. This week brings us reports on the climate change, agricultural subsidies, foreign policy, and much more. This is NOT a complete list of recent reports, only members of Congress have access to a complete list, but these are reports requested from Congress by members of the public, like you. If you want to request a report, just talk to your local Representative or Senator. Or you can check out these reports from OpenCRS and Secrecy News:
Not on campus, but still want access to additional reports? The library has a guide linking to various additional sources of CRS reports.
- Enemy Combatant Detainees: Habeas Corpus Challenges in Federal Court
- Defense Procurement: Full Funding Policy -- Background, Issues, and Options for Congress
- Data Mining and Homeland Security: An Overview
- Coast Guard Deepwater Program: Background, Oversight Issues, and Options for Congress
- Recess Appointments Made by President George W. Bush, January 20, 2001-June 4, 2007
- Private Security Contractors in Iraq: Background, Legal Status, and Other Issues
- Statutory Offices of Inspector General: Past and Present
- Medal of Honor Recipients: 1979-2007
- GAO: Government Accountability Office and General Accounting Office
- Digital Surveillance: The Communications Assistance for Law Enforcement Act
- Tactical Aircraft Modernization: Issues for Congress
- Arms Control and Nonproliferation: A Catalog of Treaties and Agreements
Not on campus, but still want access to additional reports? The library has a guide linking to various additional sources of CRS reports.
Monday, July 09, 2007
14th amendment to the Constitution
On July 9th, 1868 (139 years ago today), the Civil Rights amendment to the Constitution was ratified. This amendment, the 14th, extended rights and liberties to former slaves. It gave the right to freedom and, for all males over the age of 21, the right to vote. While this amendment grants this freedom the carrying out of this amendment was spotty at best.
Want to view the original handwritten copy of the amendment? Check out the National Archives web page.
Want more information on historical and archival documents? Check out the library's guides.
Want to view the original handwritten copy of the amendment? Check out the National Archives web page.
Want more information on historical and archival documents? Check out the library's guides.
Friday, July 06, 2007
GAO releases this week
Due to the forth of July holiday, there are fewer releases this week. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) is often called the investigative arm of Congress. This week they investigated a variety of issues, such as the port security, immigration, and housing. If you would like to know more about the GAO, check out the library's guide.
Reports
Reports
- Alien Detention Standards: Telephone Access Problems Were Pervasive at Detention Facilities; Other Deficiencies Did Not Show a Pattern of Noncompliance. GAO-07-875, July 6.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-875
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07875high.pdf - Personal Information: Data Breaches Are Frequent, but Evidence of Resulting Identity Theft Is Limited; However, the Full Extent Is Unknown. GAO-07-737, June 4.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-737
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07737high.pdf - Spot Cheese Market: Market Oversight Has Increased, but Concerns Remain about Potential Manipulation. GAO-07-707, June 21.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-707
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07707high.pdf - Federal Housing Administration: Decline in the Agency's Market Share Was Associated with Product and Process Developments of Other Mortgage Market Participants. GAO-07-645, June 29.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-645
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07645high.pdf - Federal Housing Administration: Modernization Proposals Would Have Program and Budget Implications and Require Continued Improvements in Risk Management. GAO-07-708, June 29.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-708
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07708high.pdf - Military Operations: Actions Needed to Improve DOD's Stability Operations Approach and Enhance Interagency Planning. GAO-07-549, May 31.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-549
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07549high.pdf - South Florida Ecosystem: Restoration Is Moving Forward but Is Facing Significant Delays, Implementation Challenges, and Rising Costs. GAO-07-520, May 31.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-520
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07520high.pdf
- Information on Port Security in the Caribbean Basin. GAO-07-804R, June 29.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-804R
- "How Key National Indicators Can Improve Policymaking and Strengthen Democracy" by David M. Walker, comptroller general of the United States, before OECD's Second World Forum on Statistics, Knowledge, and Policy, in Istanbul, Turkey. GAO-07-1069CG, June 26, 2007. [Text]
http://www.gao.gov/cghome/d071069cg.pdf
Thursday, July 05, 2007
UN Millennium Development Goals
The United Nations developed a set of eight goals for the first fifteen years of the new millennium. You can read these goals as well as view a progress chart on the UN web site. The UN released the mid-term report on the millennium development goals today. The report shows mixed success at meeting the eight goals.
Want to see the regional releases? Check them out off the Newsroom page.
Want to know more about the United Nations? Check out the library guide.
Want to see the regional releases? Check them out off the Newsroom page.
Want to know more about the United Nations? Check out the library guide.
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
CRS reports now available online
The Congressional Research Service (CRS) is a research agency for the U.S. Congress and writes reports at their request. This week brings us reports on the climate change, agricultural subsidies, foreign policy, and much more. This is NOT a complete list of recent reports, only members of Congress have access to a complete list, but these are reports requested from Congress by members of the public, like you. If you want to request a report, just talk to your local Representative or Senator. Or you can check out these reports from OpenCRS and Secrecy News:
Not on campus, but still want access to additional reports? The library has a guide linking to various additional sources of CRS reports.
- Community Reinvestment Act: Regulation and Legislation
- Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies (THUD): FY2008 Appropriations
- Measuring Equity in Farm Support Levels
- Mongolia and U.S. Policy: Political and Economic Relations
- Ozone Air Quality Standards: EPA's 2007 Proposed Changes
- Changes to the SBA Disaster Loan Program: Proposed Legislation in the 110th Congress
- The Flood Insurance Reform and Modernization Act of 2007: A Summary of Key Provisions
- Public-Private Partnership Options for Managing Wireless Networks
- The Carbon Cycle: Implications for Climate Change and Congress
- Conservation and the 2007 Farm Bill
- Veterans' Medical Care: FY2008 Appropriations
- Intelligence and Information-Sharing Elements of S. 4 and H.R. 1
- Iraq: Oil and Gas Legislation, Revenue Sharing, and U.S. Policy
- FEMA's Community Disaster Loan Program: Action in the 110th Congress
- Legal Challenges to the Client Communication Provisions of the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005
- Potential F-22 Raptor Export to Japan
- Copyright Protection for Fashion Design: A Legal Analysis of the Design Piracy Prohibition Act, H.R. 2033
- Pay Discrimination Claims Under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act: A Legal Analysis of the Supreme Court's Decision in Ledbetter v. Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co., Inc.
- Long-Range Ballistic Missile Defense in Europe
- Foreign Science and Engineering Presence in U.S. Institutions and the Labor Force
- Russian Political, Economic, and Security Issues and U.S. Interests
- The Use of Federal Troops for Disaster Assistance: Legal Issues
- The Department of Defense Rules for Military Commissions: Analysis of Procedural Rules and Comparison with Proposed Legislation and the Uniform Code of Military Justice
- Trafficking in Persons: U.S. Policy and Issues for Congress
- Intelligence and Information-Sharing Elements of S. 4 and H.R. 1
- Potential F-22 Raptor Export to Japan
- The Department of Defense: Reducing Its Reliance on Fossil-Based Aviation Fuel -- Issues for Congress
- India-U.S. Relations
- Pakistan-U.S. Relations
- Mongolia and U.S. Policy: Political and Economic Relations
Not on campus, but still want access to additional reports? The library has a guide linking to various additional sources of CRS reports.
President Bush grants clemency for Libby
Yesterday, President Bush used his pardon powers to grant clemency to I. Lewis "Scooter" Libby, after the appeals court turned down his request to avoid jail until his appeals were complete. The President left in place the two years of probation and the $250,000 fine, but granted clemency on the jail term.
The president has released a statement explaining this decision, as well as a copy of the grant of clemency.
We posted on the jury's decision before on this blog, check out that entry.
Want to read more about reaction to and the lead up to this decision? Check out the Washington Post's "A Decision Made Largely Alone."
Want to read the section of the constitution that gives the President this power? Check out Article II, Section II of this online transcript from the National Archives.
The president has released a statement explaining this decision, as well as a copy of the grant of clemency.
We posted on the jury's decision before on this blog, check out that entry.
Want to read more about reaction to and the lead up to this decision? Check out the Washington Post's "A Decision Made Largely Alone."
Want to read the section of the constitution that gives the President this power? Check out Article II, Section II of this online transcript from the National Archives.
Monday, July 02, 2007
Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President George W Bush Meet
Yesterday Russian President Putin arrived yesterday to meet with President Bush at the Bush family compound in Kennebunkport, Maine. This is a more informal meeting to discuss issues such as missile defense and Kosovo independence.
You can read more about the details of the meeting in the Washington Post article "Bush, Putin aim to mend relations."
To read more about this visit from the White House you can read the discussion of what they are going to eat from the President's Q and A. You can also view photos from the visit.
Want more information on the presidency? Check out the library's guide.
You can read more about the details of the meeting in the Washington Post article "Bush, Putin aim to mend relations."
To read more about this visit from the White House you can read the discussion of what they are going to eat from the President's Q and A. You can also view photos from the visit.
Want more information on the presidency? Check out the library's guide.
GAO Reports for the week
I was off in the land of no internet this Friday and you missed your GAO reports from last week, so here they are just a little late. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) is often called the investigative arm of Congress. This week they investigated a variety of issues, such as the homeland security, federal workplace, and wetlands. If you would like to know more about the GAO, check out the library's guide.
Reports
Presentations by the Comptroller General
Reports
- Military Base Closures: Projected Savings from Fleet Readiness Centers Likely Overstated and Actions Needed to Track Actual Savings and Overcome Certain Challenges. GAO-07-304, June 29.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-304
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07304high.pdf - Defense Contracting: Improved Insight and Controls Needed over DOD's Time-and-Materials Contracts. GAO-07-273, June 29.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-273
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07273high.pdf - Nursing Homes: Federal Actions Needed to Improve Targeting and Evaluation of Assistance by Quality Improvement Organizations. GAO-07-373, May 29.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-373
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07373high.pdf - Homeland Security: Departmentwide Integrated Financial Management Systems Remain a Challenge. GAO-07-536, June 21.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-536
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07536high.pdf - Defense Acquisitions: An Analysis of the Special Operations Command's Management of Weapon System Programs. GAO-07-620, June 28.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-620
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07620high.pdf - Defined Benefit Pensions: Conflicts of Interest Involving High Risk or Terminated Plans Pose Enforcement Challenges. GAO-07-703, June 28.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-703
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07703high.pdf - Medicare Ultrasound Procedures: Consideration of Payment Reforms and Technician Qualifications Requirements. GAO-07-734, June 28.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-734
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07734high.pdf - Energy Efficiency: Important Challenges Must Be Overcome to Realize Significant Opportunities for Energy Efficiency Improvements in Gulf Coast Reconstruction. GAO-07-654, June 26.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-654
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07654high.pdf - Wildland Fire Management: Lack of Clear Goals or a Strategy Hinders Federal Agencies' Efforts to Contain the Costs of Fighting Fires. GAO-07-655, June 1.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-655
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07655high.pdf - Navy Working Capital Fund: Management Action Needed to Improve Reliability of the Naval Air Warfare Center's Reported Carryover Amounts. GAO-07-643, June 26.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-643
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07643high.pdf - Combating Terrorism: Law Enforcement Agencies Lack Directives to Assist Foreign Nations to Identify, Disrupt, and Prosecute Terrorists. GAO-07-697, May 25.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-697
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07697high.pdf - Avian Influenza: USDA Has Taken Important Steps to Prepare for Outbreaks, but Better Planning Could Improve Response. GAO-07-652, June 11.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-652
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07652high.pdf - Hurricane Katrina: EPA's Current and Future Environmental Protection Efforts Could Be Enhanced by Addressing Issues and Challenges Faced on the Gulf Coast. GAO-07-651, June 25.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-651
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07651high.pdf - Department of Homeland Security: Science and Technology Directorate's Expenditure Plan. GAO-07-868, June 22.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-868
- Higher Education: Challenges in Attracting International Students to the United States and Implications for Global Competitiveness, by George A. Scott, director, education, workforce, and income security issues, before a joint hearing of the Subcommittee on International Organizations, Human Rights, and Oversight, House Committee on Foreign Affairs; and the Subcommittee on Higher Education, Lifelong Learning, and Competitiveness, House Committee on Education and Labor. GAO-07-1047T, June 29.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1047T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071047thigh.pdf - Millennium Challenge Corporation: Progress and Challenges with Compacts in Africa, by David B. Gootnick, director, international affairs and trade, before the Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health, House Committee on Foreign Affairs. GAO-07-1049T, June 28.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1049T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071049thigh.pdf - Homeland Security: Transforming Departmentwide Financial Management Systems Remains a Challenge, by Keith Rhodes, chief technologist, and McCoy Williams, director, financial management and assurance, before the Subcommittee on Federal Financial Management, Government Information, Federal Services, and International Security, Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. GAO-07-1041T, June 28.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1041T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071041thigh.pdf - Forest Service: Vegetation Management Projects Approved during Calendar Years 2003 through 2005 Using Categorical Exclusions, by Robin M. Nazzaro, director, natural resources and environment, before the Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests, and Public Lands, House Committee on Natural Resources. GAO-07-1016T, June 28.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1016T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071016thigh.pdf - Homeland Security: Prospects For Biometric US-VISIT Exit Capability Remain Unclear, by Randolph C. Hite, director, information technology architecture and systems issues, before the Subcommittee on Maritime and Global Counterterrorism, House Committee on Homeland Security. GAO-07-1044T, June 28.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1044T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071044thigh.pdf - Military Construction: Observations on Mismanagement of the Kaiserslautern Military Community Center, by Gregory D. Kutz and Bruce A. Causseaux, managing director and senior level specialist, forensic audits and special investigations; and Terrell G. Dorn, director, physical infrastructure, before the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. GAO-07-1039T, June 28.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1039T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071039thigh.pdf - Workforce Investment Act: Additional Actions Would Further Improve the Workforce System, by Sigurd R. Nilsen, director, education, workforce, and income security issues, before the Subcommittee on Higher Education, Lifelong Learning, and Competitiveness, House Committee on Education and Labor. GAO-07-1051T, June 28. (1:30 p.m.)
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1051T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071051thigh.pdf - Implementation of the Beach Act of 2000: EPA and States Have Made Progress, but Additional Actions Could Improve Public Health Protection, by Anu K. Mittal, director, natural resources and environment, before the Subcommittee on Transportation Safety, Infrastructure Security, and Water Quality, Senate Committee on the Environment and Public Works. GAO-07-1043T, June 27.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1043T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071043thigh.pdf - Wildland Fire: Management Improvements Could Enhance Federal Agencies' Efforts to Contain the Costs of Fighting Fires, by Robin M. Nazzaro, director, natural resources and environment, before the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. GAO-07-922T, June 26.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-922T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d07922thigh.pdf - Capitol Visitor Center: Update on Status of Project's Schedule and Cost as of June 27, 2007, by Terrell G. Dorn, director, physical infrastructure issues, before the Subcommittee on the Legislative Branch, House Committee on Appropriations. GAO-07-897T, June 27.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-897T - 2010 Census: Census Bureau Is Making Progress on the Local Update of Census Addresses Program, but Improvements Are Needed, by Mathew J. Scire, director, strategic issues, before the Subcommittee on Information Policy, Census, and National Archives, House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. GAO-07-1063T, June 26.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1063T
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d071063thigh.pdf - End-Stage Renal Disease: Medicare Should Pay a Bundled Rate for All ESRD Items and Services, statement for the record by A. Bruce Steinwald, director, health care, before the Subcommittee on Health, House Committee on Ways and Means. GAO-07-1050T, June 26.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-1050T
- Military Health: DOD's Vaccine Healthcare Centers Network. GAO-07-787R, June 29.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-787R - Preliminary Information on Rebuilding Efforts in the Gulf Coast. GAO-07-809R, June 29.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-809R - Management Report: Opportunities for Improvements in FDIC's Internal Controls and Accounting Procedures. GAO-07-942R, June 27.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-942R - Leveraging Federal Funds for Housing, Community, and Economic Development. GAO-07-768R, May 25.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-768R
Presentations by the Comptroller General
- "Transparent Government and Access to Information: A Role for Supreme Audit Institutions" by David M. Walker, comptroller general of the United States, before the Seventh Global Forum on Reinventing Government, in Vienna, Austria. GAO-07-1068CG, June 26, 2007. [text]
http://www.gao.gov/cghome/d071068cg.pdf - "Economic Insecurity Challenges" by David M. Walker, comptroller general of the United States, before the Rockefeller Foundation Trustees and Executives Dinner on Economic Insecurity in America, in New York, New York. GAO-07-1060CG, June 20, 2007. [Text]
http://www.gao.gov/cghome/d071060cg.pdf - "The Challenges and Opportunities of Demographic Change in America" by David M. Walker, comptroller general of the United States, before the Center for Productive Longevity's National Conference on the New Human Resources Frontier: Utilizing Older Workers for Competitive Advantage, in Washington, D.C. GAO-07-1061CG, June 7, 2007. [Slides]
http://www.gao.gov/cghome/d071061cg.pdf
- Financial Audit Manual, Volume Three. (Exposure draft). GAO-07-313G, June 2007. [Internet only]
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-07-313G
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