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Articles Tagged issue-spotlight, page 1

  1. Issue Spotlight: Mobile Devices and Wireless Communication

    by rachna on June 10, 2013

    Unlocking Cell Phones and Other Wireless Proposals

    As we all know from experience, when you sign a contract with a wireless carrier, you get a cell phone at reduced price as long as you stay with them...unless you "unlocked" your phone, which involved a software alteration and required a new SIM card.

    Beginning January 26, 2013, "unlocking" your phone became illegal under federal law. Specifically, the US Copyright Office and Library of Congress no longer allowed phone unlocking as an exemption under the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA). (Read the full ruling.) But don't worry if your phone has already been unlocked before the January law change: you're "grandfathered" in and won't face any legal issues.

    It's now up to Congress. Several bills in Congress have been introduced to enable users to once again "unlock" their phones. Weigh in on these bills, and others related to cell phones and wireless technology. POPVOX will deliver your message to Congress, guaranteed, and aggregate your voice with others. (Learn how POPVOX works.)

    Unlocking your Cell Phone

    Other Bills related to Mobile Devices and Wireless Communication

    • HR 1913 The Application Privacy, Protection, and Security Act: would require app developers maintain privacy policies, obtain consent from consumers before collecting data, and securely maintain the data they collect.
    • HR 1730 The Cell Phone Theft Prevention Act: to prohibit mobile service providers from providing service on mobile devices that have been reported stolen, to require such providers to give consumers the ability to remotely delete data from mobile devices, to prohibit the alteration or removal of mobile device identification numbers.
    • S 607 Updating the Electronic Communications Privacy Act: To improve the provisions relating to the privacy of electronic communications.
    • HR 983 The Online Communications and Geolocation Protection Act: To amend title 18, United States Code, with respect to disclosures to governments by communications-related service providers of certain information consisting of or relating to communications.
    • HRes 57 Resolution: Expressing the sense of the House that in order to continue aggressive growth in the Nation's telecommunications and technology industries, the US Government should "Get Out of the Way and Stay Out of the Way".
    • HR 210 To require retail establishments that use mobile device tracking technology to display notices to that effect.
    • HR 176 The Stop Taxpayer Funded Cell Phones Act: To prohibit universal service support of commercial mobile service through the Lifeline program.
    • S 418 The Do-Not-Track Online Act: A bill to require the Federal Trade Commission to prescribe regulations regarding the collection and use of personal information obtained by tracking the online activity of an individual.

  2. Issue Spotlight: Marijuana

    by rachna on June 10, 2013

    Throughout early American history, marijuana use was legal under both federal and individual state laws. In fact, from 1850 to 1941, cannabis was included in the United States Pharmacopoeia as a recognized medicinal. By the end of 1936, however, all 48 states had enacted laws to regulate marijuana.

    The federal government's first attempt to regulate marijuana, the Marijuana Tax Act of 1937, made possession or transfer of cannabis illegal throughout the US, but for medical and industrial uses. An excise tax was established for these permitted uses. In 1969, the Supreme Court held the Marijuana Tax Act to be unconstitutional. In 1970, with President Nixon's urging, Congress passed the Controlled Substances Act placing marijuana in Schedule I—the most restrictive of five categories for substances with "no currently accepted medical use"—along with heroin, LSD, peyote and psilocybin (mushrooms). Drugs of abuse with recognized medical uses, including opium, cocaine and amphetamine, were assigned to Schedules II through V based on their potential for abuse. (Source: Congressional Research Service.)

    Marijuana and Hemp Legislation

    In November 2012, Colorado and Washington became the first states to legalize marijuana use. Meanwhile, 18 states and the District of Columbia have enacted laws allowing for the medical use of marijuana. California led the way in 1996 when its voters passed Proposition 215, legalizing medical marijuana. This state-level activity may prompt greater interest in federal marijuana legislation. Already, nearly a dozen bills have been introduced in the US Congress -- and Congress needs to hear from its constituents.

    Please keep in mind that highlighting a bill doesn't imply a POPVOX endorsement in any way. Rather, we're simply trying to offer one more way to stay informed of an overwhelmingly complex legislative system.

  3. Issue Spotlight: Firearms and Gun Control

    by rachna on June 8, 2013

    Issue Spotlight: Firearms and Gun Control

    5/5/13: Last month, the Senate shelved its planned for a vote on Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid's Safe Communities, Safe Schools Act, which would ensure that all individuals who should be prohibited from buying a firearm are listed in the national instant criminal background check system and require a background check for every firearm sale. As part of this, the Senate had also considered the bipartisan compromise known as the Toomey-Manchin Amendment, which was opposed by 45 Senators.

    Senator Manchin, however, is now working to make changes to his Amendment to garner the support of additional Senators -- and to beat a filibuster. And meanwhile, the House version of this compromise has more than 100 cosponsors.

    Firearms and Gun Control Legislation

    Congress needs to hear from their constituents on this issue at this critical time. Weigh in and POPVOX will deliver your letters to your Members of Congress -- guaranteed. (List updated 6/8/13)

    Relating to Background Checks

    • HR 1565 The Public Safety and Second Amendment Rights Protection Act: To protect Second Amendment rights, ensure that all individuals who should be prohibited from buying a firearm are listed in the National Instant Criminal Background Check System, and provide a responsible and consistent background check process. 
    • HR 1605 The Public Safety and Second Amendment Rights Protection Act: To protect Second Amendment rights, ensure that all individuals who should be prohibited from buying a firearm are listed in the National Instant Criminal Background Check System, and provide a responsible and consistent background check process.
    • S 729 The Disarm Criminals and Protect Communities Act: to protect law abiding citizens by preventing criminals from obtaining firearms.
    • Compromise The Toomey-Schumer-Manchin Amendment: would require states and the federal government to send all necessary records on criminals and the violently mentally ill to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). It also extends the existing background check system to gun shows and online sales.
    • S 649 The Safe Communities, Safe Schools Act: would ensure that all individuals who should be prohibited from buying a firearm are listed in the national instant criminal background check system and require a background check for every firearm sale.
    • S 374 The Fix Gun Checks Act: A bill to ensure that all individuals who should be prohibited from buying a firearm are listed in the national instant criminal background check system and require a background check for every firearm sale.
    • S 22 The Gun Show Background Check Act: A bill to establish background check procedures for gun shows.
    • HR 141 Closing the ‘gun show loophole.’ To require criminal background checks on all firearms transactions occurring at gun shows.
    • HR 137 The Fix Gun Checks Act: To ensure that all individuals who should be prohibited from buying a firearm are listed in the national instant criminal background check system and require a background check for every firearm sale.
    • HR 21 The NRA Members' Gun Safety Act: To provide for greater safety in the use of firearms.

    Relating to Banning Specific Weapons and Ammunition

    Relating to Trafficking

    Relating to Enforcement

    Relating to the United Nations Arms Trade Treaty

    • HR 575 The Second Amendment Protection Act: The US should not adopt any treaty that poses a threat to national sovereignty or abridges any rights guaranteed by the US Constitution, such as the right to keep and bear arms, and to withhold funding from the United Nations unless the President certifies that the United Nations has not taken action to restrict, attempt to restrict, or otherwise adversely infringe upon the rights of individuals in the US to keep and bear arms, or abridge any of the other constitutionally protected rights of US citizens.
    • HCR 23 House Resolution expressing concerns about the US becoming a signatory to the United Nations Arms Trade Treaty, or to any similar agreement on the arms trade.
    • SCR 7 Senate Resolution expressing concerns about the US becoming a signatory to the United Nations Arms Trade Treaty, or to any similar agreement on the arms trade.

    Relating to the Second Amendment

    • HR 848 The Armed Prohibited Persons Act: to make grants to States to develop systems to retrieve firearms from armed prohibited persons. 
    • S 261 : To establish and clarify that Congress does not authorize persons convicted of dangerous crimes in foreign courts to freely possess firearms in the United States.
    • HR 575 The Second Amendment Protection Act: To express the sense of the Congress that the United States should not adopt any treaty that poses a threat to national sovereignty or abridges any rights guaranteed by the United States Constitution, such as the right to keep and bear arms, and to withhold funding from the United Nations unless the President certifies that the United Nations has not taken action to restrict, attempt to restrict, or otherwise adversely infringe upon the rights of individuals in the United States to keep and bear arms, or abridge any of the other constitutionally protected rights of citizens of the United States.
    • S 82 The Separation of Powers Restoration and Second Amendment Protection Act: A bill to provide that any executive action infringing on the Second Amendment has no force or effect, and to prohibit the use of funds for certain purposes.
    • HR 410 The Restore the Constitution Act: To provide that any executive action infringing on the Second Amendment has no force or effect, and to prohibit the use of funds for certain purposes.

    Relating to Children and Schools

    Relating to the Sale of Firearms and Ammunition

    • HR 1369 The Firearm Risk Protection Act: To prohibit the sale of a firearm to, and the purchase of a firearm by, a person who is not covered by appropriate liability insurance coverage.
    • HR 720 : To increase public safety by permitting the Attorney General to deny the transfer of a firearm or the issuance of firearms or explosives licenses to a known or suspected dangerous terrorist.
    • S 174 The Ammunition Background Check Act: A bill to appropriately restrict sales of ammunition.
    • S 35 The Stop Online Ammunition Sales Act: A bill to require face to face purchases of ammunition, to require licensing of ammunition dealers, and to require reporting regarding bulk purchases of ammunition.
    • HR 142 The Stop Online Ammunition Sales Act: To require face to face purchases of ammunition, to require licensing of ammunition dealers, and to require reporting regarding bulk purchases of ammunition.
    • HR 238 The Fire Sale Loophole Closing Act: To amend chapter 44 of title 18, United States Code, to restrict the ability of a person whose Federal license to import, manufacture, or deal in firearms has been revoked, whose application to renew such a license has been denied, or who has received a license revocation or renewal denial notice, to transfer business inventory firearms. 
    • HR 34 The Blair Holt Firearm Licensing and Record of Sale Act: To provide for the implementation of a system of licensing for purchasers of certain firearms and for a record of sale system for those firearms.
    • HR 93 The Fire Sale Loophole Closing Act: To amend chapter 44 of title 18, United States Code, to restrict the ability of a person whose Federal license to import, manufacture, or deal in firearms has been revoked, whose application to renew such a license has been denied, or who has received a license revocation or renewal denial notice, to transfer business inventory firearms.
    • HR 404 The Straw Purchaser Penalty Enhancement Act: To enhance criminal penalties for straw purchasers of firearms.
    • HR 236 The Crackdown on Deadbeat Gun Dealers Act: To ensure greater accountability by licensed firearms dealers. 
    • S 34 The Denying Firearms and Explosives to Dangerous Terrorists Act: A bill to increase public safety by permitting the Attorney General to deny the transfer of firearms or the issuance of firearms and explosives licenses to known or suspected dangerous terrorists.

    Relating to Gun Buybacks

    Relating to Concealed Carry

    Relating to Veterans and Active Duty Servicemembers

    • HR 577 The Veterans Second Amendment Protection Act: To clarify the conditions under which certain persons may be treated as adjudicated mentally incompetent for certain purposes. 
    • HR 449 The Veterans' Heritage Firearms Act: To provide an amnesty period during which veterans and their family members can register certain firearms in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. 
    • HRes 40 House Resolution expressing that active duty military personnel who are stationed or residing in the District of Columbia should be permitted to exercise fully their rights under the Second Amendment to the Constitution of the United States.

    Relating to Licensing and Registration

    Other Bills

    Please keep in mind that highlighting a bill doesn't imply a POPVOX endorsement in any way. Rather, we're simply trying to offer one more way to stay informed of an overwhelmingly complex legislative system.

  4. Issue Spotlight: Horses

    by rachna on June 6, 2013

    Horses have long been a part of the American economy, culture and history. Beginning with Columbus's journey, horses were a key part of American exploration. In fact, some of the Iberian horses brought in the late 1400's escaped and became feral. Their relatives are now the mustangs found in western United States.

    By 1911, there were more than 23 million horses in the US, according to the Dept. of Agriculture. By the last horse census in 1959, there were only 4.5 million horses. But the number of horses since the 1960's has grown -- not for agricultural or transportation use -- but for sport, competition, recreation and companionship. A 2005 study found that there are 9.2 million horses in the US. (Source: USDA)

    Bills related to horses have consistently been popular on POPVOX. Here's a look at what's been introduced in this Congress.

    Proposals in Congress: Horses

    Weigh in and POPVOX will deliver your message to Congress.

    Please keep in mind that highlighting a bill doesn't imply a POPVOX endorsement in any way. Rather, we're simply trying to offer one more way to stay informed of an overwhelmingly complex legislative system.

  5. Issue Spotlight: Sexual Assault in the Military

    by rachna on June 5, 2013

    According to a Pentagon survey of active duty service members, there were an estimated 26,000 sexual assaults in the military last year. However, the number of actual reports of sexual assaults was far lower. There were 3,374 reports of sexual assault involving service members last year.

    In response to these reports, the Defense Department published a revised sexual assault prevention and response strategic plan. And this week, the House Armed Services Committee released legislative language as part of the FY2014 National Defense Authorization Act, which includes a number of bipartisan reforms to the way sexual assault cases are reported, investigated and punished in the military.

    Here's a look at the dozen bills (and a resolution) that Congress is considering related to sexual assault in the military.

    Proposals in Congress: Sexual Assault in the Military

    (Updated 6/5) Weigh in and POPVOX will deliver your message to Congress.

      Just Introduced

    • HR 2230 A bill to address the prevalence of sexual harassment and sexual assault in the Armed Forces.
    • HR 2227 A bill to improve the response to and prevention of sexual assaults involving members of the Armed Forces.
    • S 1092 A bill to require an Inspector General investigation of allegations of retaliatory personnel actions taken in response to making protected communications regarding sexual assault.
    • S 1050 A bill to ensure the issuance of regulations applicable to the Coast Guard regarding consideration of a request for a permanent change of station or unit transfer submitted by a member of the Coast Guard who is the victim of a sexual assault.

      • More Bills

    • S 1032 Better Enforcement for Sexual Assault Free Environments Act: to combat sexual assaults in the military by better holding perpetrators accountable and better protecting survivors and to protect and enhance the rights of victims (according to bill sponsors). (Senate bill.)
    • HR 2207 Better Enforcement for Sexual Assault Free Environments Act: to combat sexual assaults in the military by better holding perpetrators accountable and better protecting survivors and to protect and enhance the rights of victims (according to bill sponsors). (House bill.)
    • HR 2002 Combating Military Sexual Assault Act: to enhance assistance for victims of sexual assault committed by members of the Armed Forces. (House bill.)
    • S 871 Combating Military Sexual Assault Act: to enhance assistance for victims of sexual assault committed by members of the Armed Forces. (Senate bill.)
    • HR 2016 Military Justice Improvement Act: would remove the decision whether to take a case to special or general court-martial completely out of the chain of command and give that discretion to military prosecutors for all crimes punishable by one year or more in confinement, except crimes that are uniquely military in nature, such as disobeying orders or going AWOL (according to the bill sponsors). (House bill.)
    • S 967 Military Justice Improvement Act: would remove the decision whether to take a case to special or general court-martial completely out of the chain of command and give that discretion to military prosecutors for all crimes punishable by one year or more in confinement, except crimes that are uniquely military in nature, such as disobeying orders or going AWOL (according to the bill sponsors). (Senate bill.)
    • S 1041 Military Crime Victims’ Rights Act: to afford crime victims’ rights to victims of offenses under the Uniform Code of Military Justice.
    • HR 1986 Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Deployment Act: to provide for the assignment of Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners-Adult/Adolescent to brigades and equivalent units of the Armed Forces.
    • HR 1864 Whistle blower protections for military sexual assault victims: to require an Inspector General investigation of allegations of retaliatory personnel actions taken in response to making protected communications regarding sexual assault.
    • S 964 Requiring New Criteria for Who Can Serve in Sexual Assault Prevention Positions: to require a comprehensive review of the adequacy of the training, qualifications, and experience of the Dept. of Defense personnel responsible for sexual assault prevention and response for the Armed Forces.
    • S 992 More Rigorous Screening, Training of Military Sexual Assault Officers: to provide for offices on sexual assault prevention and response under the Chiefs of Staff of the Armed Forces, to require reports on additional offices and selection of sexual assault prevention and response personnel.
    • S 548 Military Sexual Assault Prevention Act: to improve and enhance the capabilities of the Armed Forces to prevent and respond to sexual assault and sexual harassment in the Armed Forces.
    • HR 1593 Sexual Assault Training Oversight and Prevention Act: to improve the prevention of and response to sexual assault in the Armed Forces by establishing a Sexual Assault Oversight and Response Council and an enhanced Sexual Assault Oversight and Response Office and by requiring the appointment of a Director of Military Prosecutions for sexual-related offenses committed by a member of the Armed Forces.
    • HR 671 Ruth Moore Act: to improve the disability compensation evaluation procedure of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for veterans with mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma. (House bill.)
    • S 294 Ruth Moore Act: to improve the disability compensation evaluation procedure of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for veterans with mental health conditions related to military sexual trauma. (Senate bill.)
    • HRes 213 Resolution establishing the Special Committee on Sexual Assault and Abuse in the Armed Forces to conduct oversight, ensure accountability, and report on the activities of the Dept. of Defense to prevent, reduce, prosecute, and provide victims’ services for cases of sexual assault and abuse in the Armed Forces.
    • HR 2059 U.S. Coast Guard STRONG Act: to ensure the issuance of regulations applicable to the Coast Guard regarding consideration of a request for a permanent change of station or unit transfer submitted by a member of the Coast Guard who is the victim of a sexual assault.

    Please keep in mind that highlighting a bill doesn't imply a POPVOX endorsement in any way. Rather, we're simply trying to offer one more way to stay informed of an overwhelmingly complex legislative system.

  6. Issue Spotlight: Student Loans

    by rachna on May 30, 2013

    Issue Spotlight: Student Loans

    Schools are out for the summer! But as students get a break from classes, whether they get a break from higher interest rates depends on Congress. Interest rates on federal subsidized Stafford student loans are set to double from 3.4 percent to 6.8 percent on July 1. According to the House Committee on Education and Workforce, if Congress doesn't act, the neediest students will see their costs increase by over $1,000 per year through repayment. 

    Last week, the House passed the Smarter Solutions for Students Act (HR 1911), which would reset student loan interest rates once a year according to the market -- for new loans made after July 1, 2013. Stafford loan interest rates would be calculated based on the 10-year Treasury note plus 2.5 percent, and parent and graduate PLUS loans would be calculated using the 10-year Treasury note plus 4.5 percent. The legislation would also cap interest rates at 8.5 percent on Stafford loans and 10.5 percent on PLUS loans. However, the White House has indicated that President Obama would veto this bill.

    Student loan debt have staggering effects on the economy.

    Outstanding student loan debt in the US topped $1 trillion in 2011, according to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Of that debt, $864 billion was from the federal government and approximately $150 billion was private student loan debt. Nearly 40 million people carry student loan debt nationally, with an average balance of $25,000.

    While not everyone has student loan debt, it does have staggering effects on the economy. According to the New York Federal Reserve, the high levels of student debt is preventing the richest crop of potential buyers -- young college graduates -- from purchasing homes. 

    Legislation Related to Student Loans

    Weigh in on these bills, and POPVOX will deliver your message to Congress.

    Please keep in mind that highlighting a bill doesn't imply a POPVOX endorsement in any way. Rather, we're simply trying to offer one more way to stay informed of an overwhelmingly complex legislative system.

  7. Issue Spotlight: Syria

    by rachna on May 11, 2013

    5/9: President Obama last week explained that the United States is investigating whether the Syrian government used chemical weapons in its civil war, but made clear that he was not inclined to send troops to Syria. Meanwhile, Congress has been watching Syria as well. The Senate Armed Services announced that it will receive a closed briefing on the situation in Syria next week.

    We'd like to spotlight the bills that Congress is considering related to Syria.(Updated 5/11)

    • HR 1922 A bill to limit assistance to Iran, North Korea, Syria, Egypt, and Pakistan.
    • S 892 A bill: to amend the Iran Threat Reduction and Syria Human Rights Act of 2012 to impose sanctions with respect to certain transactions in foreign currencies
    • S 856 The Syria Stabilization Act: to foster stability in Syria.
    • HR 893 The Iran, North Korea, and Syria Nonproliferation Accountability Act: To provide for the imposition of sanctions with respect to foreign persons who transfer to or acquire from Iran, North Korea, or Syria certain goods, services, or technology that contribute to the proliferation activities of Iran, North Korea, or Syria.
    • HR 1327 The Free Syria Act: To improve United States humanitarian and other assistance to the Syrian people, facilitate the transition of Syria to a democratic government, provide for United States support to the post-Assad government.
    • S 617 The Syria Democratic Transition Act: to provide humanitarian assistance and support a democratic transition in Syria

    Please keep in mind that highlighting a bill doesn't imply a POPVOX endorsement in any way. Rather, we're simply trying to offer one more way to stay informed of an overwhelmingly complex legislative system.

     

  8. Issue Spotlight: National Nurses Week

    by rachna on May 8, 2013

    It's National Nurses Week! As HHS Secretary Sebelius explained, the week is to "recognize the contribution of the health care providers at the heart of our health care system."

    • HRes 201 A resolution supporting the goals and ideals of National Nurses Week on May 6 through May 12, 2013.

    Issue Spotlight: Nurses

    We'd like to spotlight bills related to nurses. Weigh in and POPVOX will deliver your message directly to Congress.

    • HR 1821 The Registered Nurse Safe Staffing Act: To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide for patient protection by establishing safe nurse staffing levels at certain Medicare providers
    • S 739 The National Nursing Shortage Reform and Patient Advocacy Act: to establish direct care registered nurse-to-patient staffing ratio requirements in hospitals
    • HR 485 The National Nurse Act: To establish the position of National Nurse for Public Health, to be filled by the same individual serving as the Chief Nurse Officer of the Public Health Service.
    • S 382 A bill to allow physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and clinical nurse specialists to supervise cardiac, intensive cardiac, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs.
    • HR 1835 A bill to provide that service of the members of the organization known as the United States Cadet Nurse Corps during World War II constituted active military service for purposes of laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.
    • HR 643 A bill to provide that no Federal or State requirement to increase energy efficient lighting in public buildings shall require a hospital, school, day care center, mental health facility, or nursing home to install or utilize such energy efficient lighting if the lighting contains mercury.
    • S 569 A bill to count a period of receipt of outpatient observation services in a hospital toward satisfying the 3-day inpatient hospital requirement for coverage of skilled nursing facility services under Medicare.
    • HR 1857 A bill to make demonstration grants to eligible local educational agencies for the purpose of reducing the student-to school nurse ratio in public elementary schools and secondary schools.

    Please keep in mind that highlighting a bill doesn't imply a POPVOX endorsement in any way. Rather, we're simply trying to offer one more way to stay informed of an overwhelmingly complex legislative system.

     

  9. Issue Spotlight: Immigration

    by rachna on May 6, 2013

    Immigration reform is once again becoming a priority issue in Washington, DC. This week, a Senate committee will be considering a comprehensive immigration reform bill:

    This isn't the first time that lawmakers have considered sweeping immigration reform. Here's a look at the history of immigration reform in the recent decades.

    Issue Spotlight: Immigration

    Updated 5/6: Here are some specific bills introduced in Congress related to immigration reform. Weigh in and POPVOX will deliver your message to your Members of Congress. (Bills listed in order of popularity among POPVOX users. In other words, the more people have weighed in, the higher it is on the list.)

    Please keep in mind that highlighting a bill doesn't imply a POPVOX endorsement in any way. Rather, we're simply trying to offer one more way to stay informed of an overwhelmingly complex legislative system.

  10. Issue Spotlight: Beyonce and Jay-Z Visit Cuba

    by rachna on April 9, 2013

    "I get so excited when you travel with me"...to Cuba!

    It's a lyric from Beyonce's song, "Hello" -- but I added the mention of Cuba in honor of her recent trip there with her husband, Jay-Z. And it's creating quite a stir in Washington. Some lawmakers in Congress are wondering how Beyonce and Jay-Z got permission from the Treasury Department to go to Cuba.

    Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen explained: "If the tourist activities undertaken by Beyonce and Jay-Z in Cuba are classified as an educational exchange trip, then it is clear that the Obama Administration is not serious about denying the Castro regime an economic lifeline that US tourism will extend to it. That was a wedding anniversary vacation that was not even disguised as a cultural program."

    Federal law expressly prohibits “tourist activities” in Cuba. However, educational opportunities sponsored by approved organizations, such as the American Museum of Natural History, National Geographic or various universities, are allowed.

    Bills Related to Cuba

    In this rare occasion, when mainstream news, policy wonks and entertainment gossip blogs are all covering the same story, we thought we'd jump in too! Here are the bills that Congress is considering about Cuba. Add your voice to the mix -- and share this list with your friends and networks!

    Please keep in mind that highlighting a bill doesn't imply a POPVOX endorsement in any way. Rather, we're simply trying to offer one more way to stay informed of an overwhelmingly complex legislative system.

  11. Issue Spotlight: Equal Pay Day

    by rachna on April 9, 2013

    President Obama, in his Equal Pay Day proclamation, explained:

      "Women -- who make up nearly half of our Nation's workforce -- face a pay gap that means they earn 23 percent less on average than men do. That disparity is even greater for African-American women and Latinas. On National Equal Pay Day, we recognize this injustice by marking how far into the new year women have to work just to make what men did in the previous one."

    Equal Pay Day

    On this Equal Pay Day, April 9, 2013, POPVOX is spotlighting a variety of bills related to women's wages. Weigh in on these bills on POPVOX and share with your friends and networks.

    • HConRes 28 House Resolution recognizing the significance of Equal Pay Day to illustrate the disparity between wages paid to men and women.
    • S 84 Paycheck Fairness Act: Amends the portion of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (FLSA) known as the Equal Pay Act to revise remedies for, enforcement of, and exceptions to prohibitions against sex discrimination in the payment of wages. (And HR 377.)
    • S 168 Fair Pay Act: to prohibit discrimination in the payment of wages on account of sex, race, or national origin. (And HR 438.)
    • HR 951Women and Workforce Investment for Nontraditional Jobs: To promote the economic self-sufficiency of low-income women through their increased participation in high-wage, high-demand occupations where they currently represent 25 percent or less of the workforce.
    • HR 1010Fair Minimum Wage Act: To provide for an increase in the Federal minimum wage to $10.10 per hour by 2015, in three steps of 95 cents each. (And S 460.)
    • HR 650WAGES Act: To amend the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to establish a base minimum wage for tipped employees.
    • HR 229Original Living American Wage (LAW) Act: To provide for the calculation of the minimum wage based on the Federal poverty threshold for a family of 2, as determined by the Bureau of the Census.

    Please keep in mind that highlighting a bill doesn't imply a POPVOX endorsement in any way. Rather, we're simply trying to offer one more way to stay informed of an overwhelmingly complex legislative system.

  12. Issue Spotlight: High-Skilled Immigration

    by rachna on March 29, 2013

    Here's a deadline that most of us don't know about: US Citizenship and Immigration Services will begin accepting H-1B petitions for FY 2014 on Monday, April 1, 2013. And there's a limit -- set by Congress annually -- on H-1B work visas. For FY 2014, the cap is 65,000 with an additional 20,000 under a Master's Degree exemption. This year, Immigration Services expects many more petitions than the number of H-1B visas it can offer and may use a lottery for the visas for the first time since 2008.

    "H-1B" refers to a temporary worker visa category to work in a "specialty occupation." This requires a higher education degree or its equivalent, but also includes "fashion models of distinguished merit and ability" and government-to-government research and development, or co-production projects administered by the Department of Defense, according to the State Department.

    As Congress considers immigration reform, we can expect H-1B programs and other high-skilled immigration will be modified as well. It's a good time to share your views with your elected officials.

    H-1B Visas and Other High-Skilled Work Visas

    • S 600 H-1B and L-1 Visa Reform Act: A bill to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to reform and reduce fraud and abuse in certain visa programs for aliens working temporarily in the United States.
    • HR 1227 Stopping Trained in America Ph.D.s From Leaving the Economy Act: To amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to authorize certain aliens who have earned a Ph.D. degree from a United States institution of higher education in a field of science, technology, engineering, or mathematics to be admitted for permanent residence and to be exempted from the numerical limitations on H-1B nonimmigrants.
    • S 169 I-Squared Act: to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to authorize additional visas for well-educated aliens to live and work in the United States.
    • HR 803 SKILLS Act: To reform and strengthen the workforce investment system of the Nation to put Americans back to work and make the United States more competitive in the 21st century.
    • S 189 StartUp Visa Act: to establish an employment-based immigrant visa for alien entrepreneurs who have received significant capital from investors to establish a business in the United States.
    • HR 633 Fairness for High-Skilled Immigrants Act: To amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to eliminate the per-country numerical limitation for employment-based immigrants, to increase the per-country numerical limitation for family-sponsored immigrants.
    • S 293 Fairness for High-Skilled Immigrants Act: A bill to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to eliminate the per-country numerical limitation for employment-based immigrants, to increase the per-country numerical limitation for family-sponsored immigrants.
    • HR 459 STEM Visa Act: To amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to promote innovation, investment, and research in the US and to eliminate the diversity immigrant program.
    • HR 707 : To amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to simplify and rename the H-2C worker program.
    • S 303 The STEM Jobs Act: A bill to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to promote innovation, investment, and research in the US, to eliminate the diversity immigrant program.
    • Framework Senate Bipartisan Framework for Comprehensive Immigration Reform: A bipartisan group of Senators have proposed a comprehensive set of immigration reform principles, which include giving immigrants a path to citizenship, strengthening border security, and reforming our legal immigration system to reunite families and strengthen our economy while protecting American workers.

    To see more immigration bills, visit our Issue Spotlight on Immigration and weigh in on the Senate Bipartisan Framework for Comprehensive Immigration Reform. 

    Please keep in mind that highlighting a bill doesn't imply a POPVOX endorsement in any way. Rather, we're simply trying to offer one more way to stay informed of an overwhelmingly complex legislative system.

  13. Issue Spotlight: North Korea

    by rachna on March 29, 2013

    Today, the North Korean state media said Kim Jong-un ordered his missile units to be ready to strike United States military bases and South Korea. Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel said, earlier this week, “we have to take seriously every provocative, bellicose word and action that this new, young leader has taken so far since he's come to power.”

    We'd like to spotlight the bills that Congress is considering related to North Korea.

    Please keep in mind that highlighting a bill doesn't imply a POPVOX endorsement in any way. Rather, we're simply trying to offer one more way to stay informed of an overwhelmingly complex legislative system.

  14. Issue Spotlight: Defense of Marriage Act

    by rachna on March 26, 2013

    As the Supreme Court hears arguments regarding same-sex marriage this week, we want to highlight bills pending before Congress related to same-sex couples and their families. (See the filings in the cases.)

    While many bills related to the Defense of Marriage Act were introduced in prior Congresses, none have yet to be introduced in the 113th Congress, and all eyes are on the Supreme Court. The Defense of Marriage Act defines marriage as the legal union of one man and one woman for federal and inter-state recognition. The law passed both houses of Congress by large majorities and was signed into law by President Bill Clinton on September 21, 1996. Under the law, no U.S. state or political subdivision is required to recognize a same-sex marriage from another state. (Read the law.)

    Weigh in on these related bills using POPVOX, and we'll deliver your message to Congress -- guaranteed.

    • HR 519 The Uniting American Families Act: to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to promote family unity, and to permit American citizens to sponsor same-sex “permanent partners” applying for legal residency in the United States.
    • S 296 The Uniting American Families Act: to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to promote family unity, and to permit American citizens to sponsor same-sex “permanent partners” applying for legal residency in the United States.
    • HR 683 The Military Spouses Equal Treatment Act: to add a definition of spouse for purposes of military personnel policies and military and veteran benefits that recognizes new State definitions of spouse.
    • S 373 The Charlie Morgan Military Spouses Equal Treatment Act: to add a definition of spouse for purposes of military personnel policies and military and veteran benefits that recognizes new State definitions of spouse.
    • HR 914 The Military Religious Freedom Protection Act: to require that implementation of the repeal of the former Department of Defense policy concerning homosexual behavior in the Armed Forces not infringe upon the free exercise of religion by and the rights of conscience of members of the Armed Forces, including chaplains.
    • HCRes 10 House Resolution: supporting the goals and ideals of No Name-Calling Week in bringing attention to name-calling of all kinds and providing schools with the tools and inspiration to launch an on-going dialogue about ways to eliminate name-calling and bullying in their communities.
    • HR 725 The Real Education for Healthy Youth Act: To provide for the reduction of unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, including HIV, and the promotion of healthy relationships. Prevents Federal funds to be used for health education that are insensitive and unresponsive to the needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender youth.

    Please keep in mind that highlighting a bill doesn't imply a POPVOX endorsement in any way. Rather, we're simply trying to offer one more way to stay informed of an overwhelmingly complex legislative system.

  15. Issue Spotlight: Key Amendments Passed in the Senate's Budget

    by rachna on March 25, 2013

    In this Issue Spotlight, we want to share details on some of the key amendments that passed with the Senate's budget proposal -- and related bills. Our logic is this: even if these amendments don't survive a House-Senate conference, these are issue areas that potentially could pass a Senate vote as stand-along bills. 

    Key Amendments Passed in the Senate's Budget

    From our Hill Sources: The Senate passed its first budget in four years, along with several amendments that were approved Thursday, Friday and very early Saturday morning.

    The amendments are non-binding, because they are attached to the Senate's non-binding budget resolution. They would take on more importance if they could survive a House-Senate conference, but it's unclear whether the House and Senate will be able to reach a broad agreement on the budget given the huge difference between the two chambers' budgets.

    Still, the Senate amendments do provide an indication of the willingness to pass bills on certain policy issues. Many of the amendments that passed are especially interesting because they reflect Republican priorities that gathered enough support among Democrats to pass in the Democratic Senate.

    UN Arms Trade Treaty

    By a 53-46 vote, the Senate approved a proposal from Sen. James Inhofe to prevent the U.S. from joining the United Nations' Arms Trade Treaty. Republicans in particular say joining the treaty, aimed at regulating arms trade, could infringe on the Second Amendment rights of U.S. citizens.

    • HR 575 The Second Amendment Protection Act: The US should not adopt any treaty that poses a threat to national sovereignty or abridges any rights guaranteed by the US Constitution, such as the right to keep and bear arms, and to withhold funding from the United Nations unless the President certifies that the United Nations has not taken action to restrict, attempt to restrict, or otherwise adversely infringe upon the rights of individuals in the US to keep and bear arms, or abridge any of the other constitutionally protected rights of US citizens.
    • HCR 23 House Resolution: Expresses concerns about the US becoming a signatory to the United Nations Arms Trade Treaty, or to any similar agreement on the arms trade.
    • SCR 7 Senate Resolution: Expresses concerns about the US becoming a signatory to the United Nations Arms Trade Treaty, or to any similar agreement on the arms trade.

    Missile Defense

    The Senate approved an amendment from Sen. Kelly Ayotte to block funding of the Medium Extended Air Defense System. This project, which would replace the Patriot missile systems in the U.S. and Germany, has been plagued by cost overruns, and the Senate voted 94-5 to block its funding.

    "Too Big to Fail"

    An amendment from Sen. David Vitter to end public subsidies to "too big to fail" banks was passed 99-0.

    Estate Tax

    The Senate voted 80-19 in favor of language from Sen. Mark Warner to repeal the estate tax in a fiscally responsible way.

    Biennial Budgeting

    A proposal from Sen. Johnny Isakson to set up a congressional budgeting process that happens every two years, instead of every year, as approved 68-31.

    • HR 879 The Biennial Budgeting and Appropriations Act: to provide for a biennial budget process and a biennial appropriations process and to enhance oversight and the performance of the Federal Government.
    • S 554 A bill: to provide for a biennial budget process and a biennial appropriations process and to enhance oversight and the performance of the Federal Government.

    Online Sales Tax

    A bipartisan amendment to allow states to collect taxes on sales made online was passed 75-24. Many members of both parties have called for this change as online sales increasingly replace sales in physical stores, which has depleted state tax revenues.

    Keystone Pipeline

    The Senate voted 62-37 in favor of an amendment from Sen. John Hoeven to approve the Keystone oilseeds pipeline. More than a dozen Democratic senators voted in favor of the GOP proposal, and the Senate also voted 33-66 against language from Sen. Barbara Boxder to delay Keystone's approval.

    Medical Device Taxes

    The 2010 healthcare law imposed a 2.3 percent tax on gross revenues of medical device tax companies, which was to be used to pay for the health reform law. But in a 79-20 vote, the Senate agreed to bipartisan language to repeal the tax.

    Hospital Payments

    In a 68-31 vote, the Senate approved a plan from Sen. Tom Coburn to repeal language in the 2010 healthcare law that boosts Medicare payments to hospitals in Massachusetts at the expense of hospitals in most other states.

      No stand-alone bill.

    Medicare Status

    This proposal from Sen. Debbie Stabenow to prohibit the replacement of guaranteed Medicare benefits with a voucher program was approved 96-3.

      No stand-alone bill.

    Please keep in mind that highlighting a bill doesn't imply a POPVOX endorsement in any way. Rather, we're simply trying to offer one more way to stay informed of an overwhelmingly complex legislative system.

  16. Issue Spotlight: Drones

    by rachna on March 22, 2013

    Issue Spotlight: Drones

    This week, the Senate Judiciary Committee held a hearing on the "Future of Drones in America: Law Enforcement and Privacy Considerations." In his opening remarks, Committee Chair Patrick Leahy explained that "while there may be many valuable uses for this new technology, the use of unmanned aircraft raises serious concerns about the impact on the constitutional and privacy rights of American citizens."  (Read his full statement.)

    And earlier this month, Senator Rand Paul took to the Senate floor to participate in an active, 13-hour filibuster of President Obama's nominee for CIA director. His topic? Drones. "I will speak as long as it takes, until the alarm is sounded from coast to coast that our Constitution is important, that your rights to trial by jury are precious, that no American should be killed by a drone on American soil without first being charged with a crime, without first being found to be guilty by a court." (Watch his filibuster.)

    Drones and Unmanned Aircraft

    Already several bills related to drones and unmanned aircraft have been introduced in Congress -- with more to come, we expect. Weigh in and POPVOX will deliver your letters to your Members of Congress -- guaranteed.

    Please keep in mind that highlighting a bill doesn't imply a POPVOX endorsement in any way. Rather, we're simply trying to offer one more way to stay informed of an overwhelmingly complex legislative system.

  17. Issue Spotlight: International Women's Day

    by rachna on March 8, 2013

    International Women's Day has been observed since in the early 1900's, according to internationalwomensday.com. The first National Women's Day was observed across the United States on February 28, 1909. However, the tragic 1911 Triangle Factory Fire in New York City that took the lives of more than 140 working women, became a catalyst for subsequent Women's Days, which was already growing as an internationally celebrated event. Only days before the Triangle Fire, more than one million women and men attended IWD rallies in Europe campaigning for women's rights to work, vote, be trained, to hold public office and end discrimination.

    Issue Spotlight: International Women's Day

    On this International Women's Day, March 8, POPVOX is spotlighting a variety of bills related to women. Weigh in on these bills on POPVOX and share with your friends and networks.

    Equal Rights Amendment

    • S J Res 10 : A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the US Constitution relative to equal rights for men and women.

    Women and International Affairs

    • HRes 19 CEDAW: Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the Senate should ratify the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW).

    Women in Military

    • HR 747 : to require the registration of women with the Selective Service System in light of the Department of Defense elimination of the rule excluding women from direct ground combat assignments in the Armed Forces.
    • HR 748 The Universal National Service Act: to provide for the registration of women under the Military Selective Service Act.
    • S 131 Women Veterans and Other Health Care Improvements Act: to improve the reproductive assistance provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs to severely wounded, ill, or injured veterans and their spouses.

    Women in the Workplace

    • S 84 Paycheck Fairness Act: Amends the portion of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (FLSA) known as the Equal Pay Act to revise remedies for, enforcement of, and exceptions to prohibitions against sex discrimination in the payment of wages. (And HR 377.)
    • S 168 Fair Pay Act: to prohibit discrimination in the payment of wages on account of sex, race, or national origin. (Allows payment of different wages under seniority systems, merit systems, systems that measure earnings by quantity or quality of production, or differentials based on bona fide factors that the employer demonstrates are job-related or further legitimate business interests.) (And HR 438.)
    • HR 951 To promote the economic self-sufficiency of low-income women through their increased participation in high-wage, high-demand occupations where they currently represent 25 percent or less of the workforce.
    • HRes 94 Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives regarding women's health and economic security.

    Women in STEM

    Women's Health

    Violence Against Women

    • HR 757 SAVE Native Women Act: To decrease the incidence of violent crimes against Indian women, to strengthen the capacity of Indian tribes to exercise the sovereign authority of Indian tribes to respond to violent crimes committed against Indian women.
    • HR 629 Violence Against Immigrant Women Act: To provide protections against violence against immigrant women.

    Women's History

    • S 398 National Women's History Museum Commission Act: to establish the Commission to Study the Potential Creation of a National Women’s History Museum.
    • S 457 Alice Paul: to posthumously award a Congressional gold medal to Alice Paul, in recognition of her role in the women's suffrage movement and in advancing equal rights for women.

    Please keep in mind that highlighting a bill doesn't imply a POPVOX endorsement in any way. Rather, we're simply trying to offer one more way to stay informed of an overwhelmingly complex legislative system.

  18. Issue Spotlight: Hunger

    by rachna on March 7, 2013

    Issue Spotlight: Hunger

    50 million Americans face hunger each year. According to USDA data, 15 percent of households were "food insecure" at least some time during the year, including nearly six percent with "very low food security—meaning that the food intake of one or more household members was reduced and their eating patterns were disrupted at times during the year because the household lacked money and other resources for food."

    As bills are introduced in this Congress related to hunger, SNAP and food assistance programs, Congress needs to hear from their constituents. Weigh in and POPVOX will deliver your letters to your Members of Congress -- guaranteed.

    Hunger Legislation

    Please keep in mind that highlighting a bill doesn't imply a POPVOX endorsement in any way. Rather, we're simply trying to offer one more way to stay informed of an overwhelmingly complex legislative system.

  19. Issue Spotlight: Voting

    by rachna on February 27, 2013

    Issue Spotlight: Voting

    Updated 2/27/13

    Do you vote? More than 119 million people cast their vote in November 2012. However, dozens of communities reported long lines and other challenges that prevented people from voting. As a result, there have been several bills introduced in Congress to make it easier for people to vote. In addition, there are proposals pending before Congress that affect voters in the District of Columbia and US territories. Weigh in on these bills related to voting and POPVOX will deliver your message to your Members of Congress -- guaranteed.

    Legislation Related to Voter Access

    Legislation Related to Representation in Congress

    Please keep in mind that highlighting a bill doesn't imply a POPVOX endorsement in any way. Rather, we're simply trying to offer one more way to stay informed of an overwhelmingly complex legislative system.

  20. Issue Spotlight: Military Pay During a Government Shutdown?

    by rachna on February 27, 2013

    When the federal government was on the verge of a budget-battle shutdown in April 2011, thousands of people -- mostly military families -- wrote personal, compelling messages to Congress in support of this bill. Their activity was so intense, it crashed POPVOX's servers for the first time. (See the Bill Report for the 112th Congress's Ensuring Pay for Our Military Act, S 724.)

    What Happens to Military Pay in the Event of a Government Shutdown or the Debt Ceiling is Reached?

    As the discussion in Congress turns to the debt ceiling, several bills have already been introduced about prioritizing military pay. Weigh in with POPVOX, and we will deliver your message to Congress -- guaranteed.

    • S 46 The Full Faith and Credit Act: A bill to protect Social Security benefits and military pay and require that the US Government prioritize all obligations on the debt held by the public in the event that the debt limit is reached. 
    • HR 247 The Ensuring the Full Faith and Credit of the United States and Protecting America's Soldiers and Seniors Act: To require that the US Government prioritize all obligations on the debt held by the public, Social Security benefits, and military pay in the event that the debt limit is reached. 
    • S 171 The Military Pay Continuation Act: A bill to appropriate such funds as may be necessary to ensure that members of the Armed Forces, including reserve components thereof, and supporting civilian and contractor personnel continue to receive pay and allowances for active service performed when a Governmentwide shutdown occurs. 
    • HR 342 The Guarantee Paychecks for America’s Military Families Act: To prioritize certain Government obligations for continued payment in the event that the statutory debt limit is reached, to appropriate funds for the pay and allowances of all members of the Armed Forces, and for those civilian employees of the Dept. of Defense and the Coast Guard serving in a combat zone.
    • HR 55 The SHEILD Act: Requires, in the event that the U.S. public debt limit is reached, priority payment of the pay and allowances of: (1) members of the Armed Forces, including reserves, who perform active service; and (2) critical law enforcement officers employed by federal agencies.
    • S 81 The Default Prevention Act: Requires the following to be granted priority over all other federally incurred obligations in the event that the public debt reaches the statutory limit: (1) the authority of the Department of the Treasury to pay with legal tender the principal and interest on debt held by the public; (2) the full payment of compensation, allowances, and benefits for members of the Armed Forces on active duty, (3) the authority of the Commissioner of Social Security to pay monthly Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance benefits under title II of the Social Security Act (SSA); and (4) the authority of the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to make payments for items and services furnished to beneficiaries under SSA title XVIII (Medicare) and related provisions.

    Please keep in mind that highlighting a bill doesn't imply a POPVOX endorsement in any way. Rather, we're simply trying to offer one more way to stay informed of an overwhelmingly complex legislative system.

(For media inquiries, please contact Marci Harris, POPVOX’s CEO, at info@popvox.com.)

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