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HR 629 IHRHCommentsClose CommentsPermalink

111th CONGRESSCommentsClose CommentsPermalink

1st SessionCommentsClose CommentsPermalink

H. R. 629CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

To provide energy and commerce provisions of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVESCommentsClose CommentsPermalink

January 22, 2009CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

Mr. WAXMAN introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committees on Ways and Means, Education and Labor, and Science and Technology, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concernedCommentsClose CommentsPermalink

A BILL

To provide energy and January 26, 2009 CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

To provide energy and commerce provisions of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

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

SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.

This Act may be cited as the ‘Energy and Commerce Recovery and Reinvestment Act’. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

TITLE I--BROADBAND COMMUNICATIONS CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 1001. INVENTORY OF BROADBAND SERVICE CAPABILITY AND AVAILABILITY.

(a) Establishment- To provide a comprehensive nationwide inventory of existing broadband service capability and availability, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (‘NTIA’) shall develop and maintain a broadband inventory map of the United States that identifies and depicts the geographic extent to which broadband service capability is deployed and available from a commercial provider or public provider throughout each State. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Public Availability and Interactivity- Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the NTIA shall make the broadband inventory map developed and maintained pursuant to this section accessible by the public on a World Wide website of the NTIA in a form that is interactive and searchable. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 1002. WIRELESS AND BROADBAND DEPLOYMENT GRANT PROGRAMS.

(a) Grants Authorized- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) IN GENERAL- The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (‘NTIA’) is authorized to carry out a program to award grants to eligible entities for the non-recurring costs associated with the deployment of broadband infrastructure in rural, suburban, and urban areas, in accordance with the requirements of this section. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) PROGRAM WEBSITE- The NTIA shall develop and maintain a website to make publicly available information about the program described in paragraph (1), including-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) each prioritization report submitted by a State under subsection (b); CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) a list of eligible entities that have applied for a grant under this section, and the area or areas the entity proposes to serve; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) the status of each such application, whether approved, denied, or pending. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) State Priorities- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) PRIORITIES REPORT SUBMISSION- Not later than 75 days after the date of enactment of this section, each State intending to participate in the program under this section shall submit to the NTIA a report indicating the geographic areas of the State which-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) for the purposes of determining the need for Wireless Deployment Grants under subsection (c), the State considers to have the greatest priority for-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(i) wireless voice service in unserved areas; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(ii) advanced wireless broadband service in underserved areas; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) for the purposes of determining the need for Broadband Deployment Grants under subsection (d), the State considers to have the greatest priority for-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(i) basic broadband service in unserved areas; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(ii) advanced broadband service in underserved areas. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) LIMITATION- The unserved and underserved areas identified by a State in the report required by this subsection shall not represent, in the aggregate, more than 20 percent of the population or of the geographic area of such State. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) Wireless Deployment Grants- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) AUTHORIZED ACTIVITY- The NTIA shall award Wireless Deployment Grants in accordance with this subsection from amounts authorized for Wireless Deployment Grants by this subtitle to eligible entities to deploy necessary infrastructure for the provision of wireless voice service or advanced wireless broadband service to end users in designated areas. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) GRANT DISTRIBUTION- The NTIA shall seek to distribute grants, to the extent possible, so that 25 percent of the grants awarded under this subsection shall be awarded to eligible entities for providing wireless voice service to unserved areas and 75 percent of grants awarded under this subsection shall be awarded to eligible entities for providing advanced wireless broadband service to underserved areas. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(d) Broadband Deployment Grants- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) AUTHORIZED ACTIVITY- The NTIA shall award Broadband Deployment Grants in accordance with this subsection from amounts authorized for Broadband Deployment Grants by this subtitle to eligible entities to deploy necessary infrastructure for the provision of basic broadband service or advanced broadband service to end users in designated areas. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) GRANT DISTRIBUTION- The NTIA shall seek to distribute grants, to the extent possible, so that 25 percent of the grants awarded under this subsection shall be awarded to eligible entities for providing basic broadband service to unserved areas and 75 percent of grants awarded under this subsection shall be awarded to eligible entities for providing advanced broadband service to underserved areas. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(e) Grant Requirements- The NTIA shall-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) adopt rules to protect against unjust enrichment; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) ensure that grant recipients-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) meet buildout requirements; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) maximize use of the supported infrastructure by the public; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) operate basic and advanced broadband service networks on an open access basis; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(D) operate advanced wireless broadband service on a wireless open access basis; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(E) adhere to the principles contained in the Federal Communications Commission’s broadband policy statement (FCC 05-151, adopted August 5, 2005). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(f) Applications- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) SUBMISSION- To be considered for a grant awarded under subsection (c) or (d), an eligible entity shall submit to the NTIA an application at such time, in such manner, and containing such information and assurances as the NTIA may require. Such an application shall include-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) a cost-study estimate for serving the particular geographic area to be served by the entity; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) a proposed build-out schedule to residential households and small businesses in the area; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) for applicants for Wireless Deployment Grants under subsection (c), a build-out schedule for geographic coverage of such areas; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(D) any other requirements the NTIA deems necessary. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) SELECTION- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) NOTIFICATION- The NTIA shall notify each eligible entity that has submitted a complete application whether the entity has been approved or denied for a grant under this section in a timely fashion. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) GRANT DISTRIBUTION CONSIDERATIONS- In awarding grants under this section, the NTIA shall, to the extent practical-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(i) award not less than one grant in each State; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(ii) give substantial weight to whether an application is from an eligible entity to deploy infrastructure in an area that is an area-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(I) identified by a State in a report submitted under subsection (b); or CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(II) in which the NTIA determines there will be a significant amount of public safety or emergency response use of the infrastructure; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





and(iii) consider whether an application from an eligible entity to deploy infrastructure in an area-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(I) will, if approved, increase the affordability of, or subscribership to, service to the greatest population of underserved users in the area; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(II) will, if approved, enhance service for health care delivery, education, or children to the greatest population of underserved users in the area; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(III) contains concrete plans for enhancing computer ownership or computer literacy in the area; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(IV) is from a recipient of more than 20 percent matching grants from State, local, or private entities for service in the area and the extent of such commitment; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





and(V) (V) will, if approved, result in unjust enrichment because the eligible entity has applied for, or intends to apply for, support for the non-recurring costs through another Federal program for service in the area; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(VI) will, if approved, significantly improve interoperable broadband communications systems available for use by public safety and emergency response; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(iv) consider whether the eligible entity is a socially and economically disadvantaged small business concern, as defined under section 8(a) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 637). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(g) Coordination and Consultation- The NTIA shall coordinate with the Federal Communications Commission and shall consult with other appropriate Federal agencies in implementing this section. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(h) Report Required- The NTIA shall submit an annual report to the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate for 5 years assessing the impact of the grants funded under this section on the basis of the objectives and criteria described in subsection (f)(2)(B)(iii). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(i) Rulemaking Authority- The NTIA shall have the authority to prescribe such rules as necessary to carry out the purposes of this section. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(j) Definitions- For the purpose of this section-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) the term ‘advanced broadband service’ means a service delivering data to the end user transmitted at a speed of at least 45 megabits per second downstream and at least 15 megabits per second upstream; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) the term ‘advanced wireless broadband service’ means a wireless service delivering to the end user data transmitted at a speed of at least 3 megabits per second downstream and at least 1 megabit per second upstream over an end-to-end internet protocol wireless network; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) the term ‘basic broadband service’ means a service delivering data to the end user transmitted at a speed of at least 5 megabits per second downstream and at least 1 megabit per second upstream; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) the term ‘eligible entity’ means-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) a provider of wireless voice service, advanced wireless broadband service, basic broadband service, or advanced broadband service, including a satellite carrier that provides any such service; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) a State or unit of local government, or agency or instrumentality thereof, that is or intends to be a provider of any such service; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) any other entity, including construction companies, tower companies, backhaul companies, or other service providers, that the NTIA authorizes by rule to participate in the programs under this section, if such other entity is required to provide access to the supported infrastructure on a neutral, reasonable basis to maximize use; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(5) the term ‘interoperable broadband communications systems’ means communications systems which enable public safety agencies to share information among local, State, Federal, and tribal public safety agencies in the same area using voice or data signals via advanced wireless broadband service; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(6) the term ‘open access’ shall be defined by the Federal Communications Commission not later than 45 days after the date of enactment of this section; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(7) the term ‘State’ includes the District of Columbia and the territories and possessions; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(68) the term ‘underserved area’ shall be defined by the Federal Communications Commission not later than 45 days after the date of enactment of this section; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(79) the term ‘unserved area’ shall be defined by the Federal Communications Commission not later than 45 days after the date of enactment of this section; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(810) the term ‘wireless open access’ shall be defined by the Federal Communications Commission not later than 45 days after the date of enactment of this section; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(11) the term ‘wireless voice service’ means the provision of two-way, real-time, voice communications using a mobile service;(9) the term ‘open access’ shall be defined by. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(k) Review of Definitions- Not later than 3 months after the date the NTIA makes a broadband inventory map of the United States accessible to the public pursuant to section 1001(b), the Federal Communications Commission not later thanshall review the definitions of ‘underserved area’ and ‘unserved area’, as defined by the Commission within 45 days after the date of enactment of this section; and(10) the term ‘wireless open access’ shall be defined byAct (as required by paragraphs (8) and (9) of subsection (j)), and shall revise such definitions based on the data used by the NTIA to develop and maintain such map. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

(a) Report Required- Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this section, the Federal Communications Commission not later than 45 days after the date of enactment of this sectionshall submit to the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate, a report containing a national broadband plan. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Contents of Plan- The national broadband plan required by this section shall seek to ensure that all people of the United States have access to broadband capability and shall establish benchmarks for meeting that goal. The plan shall also include-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) an analysis of the most effective and efficient mechanisms for ensuring broadband access by all people of the United States; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) a detailed strategy for achieving affordability of such service and maximum utilization of broadband infrastructure and service by the public; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) a plan for use of broadband infrastructure and services in advancing consumer welfare, civic participation, public safety and homeland security, community development, health care delivery, energy independence and efficiency, education, worker training, private sector investment, entrepreneurial activity, job creation and economic growth, and other national purposes. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

TITLE II--ENERGY CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

Subtitle A--Energy ProvisionsSEC. 2001. TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS TO THE ENERGY INDEPENDENCE AND SECURITY ACT OF 2007.

(a) Section 543(a) of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (42 U.S.C. 17153(a)) is amended-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) by redesignating paragraphs (2) through (4) as paragraphs (3) through (5), respectively; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) by striking paragraph (1) and inserting the following: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) 34 percent to eligible units of local government-alternative 1, in accordance with subsection (b); CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) 34 percent to eligible units of local government-alternative 2, in accordance with subsection (b);’. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Section 543(b) of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (42 U.S.C. 17153(b)) is amended by striking ‘subsection (a)(1)’ and inserting ‘subsection (a)(1) or (2)’. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) Section 548(a)(1) of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (42 U.S.C. 17158(a)(1)) is amending by striking ‘; provided’ and all that follows through ‘541(3)(B)’. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 2002. AMENDMENTS TO TITLE XIII OF THE ENERGY INDEPENDENCE AND SECURITY ACT OF 2007.

Title XIII of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (42 U.S.C. 17381 and following) is amended as follows: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) By amending subparagraph (A) of section 1304(b)(3) to read as follows: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(A) IN GENERAL- In carrying out the initiative, the Secretary shall provide financial support to smart grid demonstration projects in urban, suburban, and rural areas, including areas where electric system assets are controlled by tax-exempt entities and areas where electric system assets are controlled by investor-owned utilities.’. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) By amending subparagraph (C) of section 1304(b)(3) to read as follows: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(C) FEDERAL SHARE OF COST OF TECHNOLOGY INVESTMENTS- The Secretary shall provide to an electric utility described in subparagraph (B) or to other parties financial assistance for use in paying an amount equal to not more than 50 percent of the cost of qualifying advanced grid technology investments made by the electric utility or other party to carry out a demonstration project.’. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) By inserting after section 1304(b)(3)(D) the following new subparagraphs: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(E) AVAILABILITY OF DATA- The Secretary shall establish and maintain a smart grid information clearinghouse in a timely manner which will make data from smart grid demonstration projects and other sources available to the public. As a condition of receiving financial assistance under this subsection, a utility or other participant in a smart grid demonstration project shall provide such information as the Secretary may require to become available through the smart grid information clearinghouse in the form and within the timeframes as directed by the Secretary. The Secretary shall assure that business proprietary information and individual customer information is not included in the information made available through the clearinghouse. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(F) OPEN INTERNET-BASED PROTOCOLS AND STANDARDS- The Secretary shall require as a condition of receiving funding under this subsection that demonstration projects utilize open Internet-based protocols and standards if available.’. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) By amending paragraph (2) of section 1304(c) to read as follows: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) to carry out subsection (b), such sums as may be necessary.’. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(5) By amending subsection (a) of section 1306 by striking ‘reimbursement of one-fifth (20 percent)’ and inserting ‘grants of up to one-half (50 percent)’. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(6) By striking the last sentence of subsection (b)(9) of section 1306. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(7) By striking ‘are eligible for’ in subsection (c)(1) of section 1306 and inserting ‘utilize’. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(8) By amending subsection (e) of section 1306 to read as follows: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(e) Procedures and Rules- The Secretary shall-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) establish within 60 days after the enactment of the AmericanEnergy and Commerce Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 procedures by which applicants can obtain grants of not more than one-half of their documented costs; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) require as a condition of receiving a grant under this section that grant recipients utilize open Internet-based protocols and standards if available; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(3) establish procedures to ensure that there is no duplication or multiple payment or recovery for the same investment or costs, that the grant goes to the party making the actual expenditures for qualifying smart grid investments, and that the grants made have significant effect in encouraging and facilitating the development of a smart grid; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(4) maintain public records of grants made, recipients, and qualifying smart grid investments which have received grants; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(5) establish procedures to provide advance payment of moneys up to the full amount of the grant award; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(6) have and exercise the discretion to deny grants for investments that do not qualify in the reasonable judgment of the Secretary.’. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 2003. RENEWABLE ENERGY AND ELECTRIC POWER TRANSMISSION LOAN GUARANTEE PROGRAM.

(a) Amendment- Title XVII of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 16511 et seq.) is amended by adding the following at the end: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘SEC. 1705. TEMPORARY PROGRAM FOR RAPID DEPLOYMENT OF RENEWABLE ENERGY AND ELECTRIC POWER TRANSMISSION PROJECTS.

‘(a) In General- Notwithstanding section 1703, the Secretary may make guarantees under this section only for commercial technology projects under subsection (b) that will commence construction not later than September 30, 2011. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(b) Categories- Projects from only the following categories shall be eligible for support under this section: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) Renewable energy systems, including incremental hydropower, that generate electricity. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) Electric power transmission systems, including upgrading and reconductoring projects. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(3) Leading edge biofuel projects that will use technologies performing at the pilot or demonstration scale that the Secretary determines are likely to become commercial technologies and will produce transportation fuels that substantially reduce life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions compared to other transportation fuels. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(c) Factors Relating to Electric Power Transmission Systems- In determining to make guarantees to projects described in subsection (b)(2), the Secretary shall consider the following factors: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) The viability of the project without guarantees. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) The availability of other Federal and State incentives. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(3) The importance of the project in meeting reliability needs. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(4) The effect of the project in meeting a State or region’s environment (including climate change) and energy goals. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(d) Wage Rate Requirements- The Secretary shall require that each recipient of support under this section provide reasonable assurance that all laborers and mechanics employed in the performance of the project for which the assistance is provided, including those employed by contractors or subcontractors, will be paid wages at rates not less than those prevailing on similar work in the locality as determined by the Secretary of Labor in accordance with subchapter IV of chapter 31 of part A of subtitle II of title 40, United States Code (commonly referred to as the ‘Davis-Bacon Act’). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(e) Limitation- Funding under this section for projects described in subsection (b)(3) shall not exceed $500,000,000. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(f) Sunset- The authority to enter into guarantees under this section shall expire on September 30, 2011.’. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Table of Contents Amendment- The table of contents for the Energy Policy Act of 2005 is amended by inserting after the item relating to section 1704 the following new item: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘Sec. 1705. Temporary program for rapid deployment of renewable energy and electric power transmission projects.’. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 2004. WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM AMENDMENTS.

(a) Income Level- Section 412(7) of the Energy Conservation and Production Act (42 U.S.C. 6862(7)) is amended by striking ‘150 percent’ both places it appears and inserting ‘200 percent’. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Assistance Level Per Dwelling Unit- Section 415(c)(1) of the Energy Conservation and Production Act (42 U.S.C. 6865(c)(1)) is amended by striking ‘$2,500’ and inserting ‘$5,000’. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) Effective Use of Funds- In providing funds made available by this Act for the Weatherization Assistance Program, the Secretary may encourage States to give priority to using such funds for the most cost-effective efficiency activities, which may include insulation of attics, if, in the Secretary’s view, such use of funds would increase the effectiveness of the program. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 2005. RENEWABLE ELECTRICITY TRANSMISSION STUDY.

In completing the 2009 National Electric Transmission Congestion Study, the Secretary of Energy shall include-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) an analysis of the significant potential sources of renewable energy that are constrained in accessing appropriate market areas by lack of adequate transmission capacity; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) an analysis of the reasons for failure to develop the adequate transmission capacity; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) recommendations for achieving adequate transmission capacity; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





and(4 (4) an analysis of the extent to which legal challenges filed at the State and Federal level are delaying the construction of transmission necessary to access renewable energy; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(5) an explanation of assumptions and projections made in the Study, including-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) assumptions and projections relating to energy efficiency improvements in each load center; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) assumptions and projections regarding the location and type of projected new generation capacity; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) assumptions and projections regarding projected deployment of distributed generation infrastructure. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

Subtitle B--Additional Energy ProvisionsSEC. 2101EC. 2006. ADDITIONAL STATE ENERGY GRANTS.

(a) In General- Amounts appropriated for the State Energy Program under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 shall be available to the Secretary of Energy for making additional grants under part D of title III of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (42 U.S.C. 6321 et seq.). The Secretary shall make grants under this section in excess of the base allocation established for a State under regulations issued pursuant to the authorization provided in section 365(f) of such Act only if the governor of the recipient State notifies the Secretary of Energy that the governor will seek, to the extent of his or her authority, to ensure that each of the following will occur: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) The applicable State regulatory authority will implement the following regulatory policies for each electric and gas utility with respect to which the State regulatory authority has ratemaking authority: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) Policies that ensure that a utility’s recovery of prudent fixed costs of service is timely and independent of its retail sales, without in the process shifting prudent costs from variable to fixed charges. This cost shifting constraint shall not apply to rate designs adopted prior to the date of enactment of this Act. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) Cost recovery for prudent investments by utilities in energy efficiency. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) An earnings opportunity for utilities associated with cost-effective energy efficiency savings. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) The State, or the applicable units of local government that have authority to adopt building codes, will implement the following: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) A building energy code (or codes) for residential buildings that meets or exceeds the most recently published International Energy Conservation Code, or achieves equivalent or greater energy savings. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) A building energy code (or codes) for commercial buildings throughout the State that meets or exceeds the ANSI/ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1-2007, or achieves equivalent or greater energy savings. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) A plan for the jurisdiction achieving compliance with the building energy code or codes described in subparagraphs (A) and (B) within 8 years of the date of enactment of this Act in at least 90 percent of new and renovated residential and commercial building space. Such plan shall include active training and enforcement programs and measurement of the rate of compliance each year. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) The State will to the extent practicable prioritize the grants toward funding energy efficiency and renewable energy programs, including-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) the expansion of existing energy efficiency programs approved by the State or the appropriate regulatory authority, including energy efficiency retrofits of buildings and industrial facilities, that are funded-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(i) by the State; or CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(ii) through rates under the oversight of the applicable regulatory authority, to the extent applicable; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) the expansion of existing programs, approved by the State or the appropriate regulatory authority, to support renewable energy projects and deployment activities, including programs operated by entities which have the authority and capability to manage and distribute grants, loans, performance incentives, and other forms of financial assistance; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) cooperation and joint activities between States to advance more efficient and effective use of this funding to support the priorities described in this paragraph. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) State Match- The State cost share requirement under the item relating to ‘DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY; energy conservation’ in title II of the Department of the Interior and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1985 (42 U.S.C. 6323a; 98 Stat. 1861) shall not apply to assistance provided under this section. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) Equipment and Materials for Energy Efficiency Measures- No limitation on the percentage of funding that may be used for the purchase and installation of equipment and materials for energy efficiency measures under grants provided under part D of title III of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (42 U.S.C. 6321 et seq.) shall apply to assistance provided under this section. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 2102007. INAPPLICABILITY OF LIMITATION.

The limitations in section 399A(f)(2), (3), and (4) of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (42 U.S.C. 6371h-1(f)(2), (3), and (4)) shall not apply to grants funded with appropriations provided by this Act, except that such grant funds shall be available for not more than an amount equal to 80 percent of the costs of the project for which the grant is provided. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

TITLE III--HEALTH INSURANCE ASSISTANCE FOR THE UNEMPLOYED CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 3001. SHORT TITLE AND TABLE OF CONTENTS OF TITLE.

(a) Short Title of Title- This title may be cited as the ‘Health Insurance Assistance for the Unemployed Act of 2009’. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Table of Contents of Title- The table of contents of this title is as follows: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 3001. Short title and table of contents of title. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 3002. Premium assistance for COBRA benefits and extension of COBRA benefits for older or long-term employees. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 3003. Temporary optional Medicaid coverage for the unemployed. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 3002. PREMIUM ASSISTANCE FOR COBRA BENEFITS AND EXTENSION OF COBRA BENEFITS FOR OLDER OR LONG-TERM EMPLOYEES.

(a) Premium Assistance for COBRA Continuation Coverage for Individuals and Their Families- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) PROVISION OF PREMIUM ASSISTANCE- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) REDUCTION OF PREMIUMS PAYABLE- In the case of any premium for a period of coverage beginning on or after the date of the enactment of this Act for COBRA continuation coverage with respect to any assistance eligible individual, such individual shall be treated for purposes of any COBRA continuation provision as having paid the amount of such premium if such individual pays 35 percent of the amount of such premium (as determined without regard to this subsection). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) PREMIUM REIMBURSEMENT- For provisions providing the balance of such premium, see section 6431 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as added by paragraph (12). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) LIMITATION OF PERIOD OF PREMIUM ASSISTANCE- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) IN GENERAL- Paragraph (1)(A) shall not apply with respect to any assistance eligible individual for months of coverage beginning on or after the earlier of-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(i) the first date that such individual is eligible for coverage under any other group health plan (other than coverage consisting of only dental, vision, counseling, or referral services (or a combination thereof), coverage under a health reimbursement arrangement or a health flexible spending arrangement, or coverage of treatment that is furnished in an on-site medical facility maintained by the employer and that consists primarily of first-aid services, prevention and wellness care, or similar care (or a combination thereof)) or is eligible for benefits under title XVIII of the Social Security Act, or CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(ii) the earliest of-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(I) the date which is 12 months after the first day of the first month that paragraph (1)(A) applies with respect to such individual, CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(II) the date following the expiration of the maximum period of continuation coverage required under the applicable COBRA continuation coverage provision, or CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(III) the date following the expiration of the period of continuation coverage allowed under paragraph (4)(B)(ii). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) TIMING OF ELIGIBILITY FOR ADDITIONAL COVERAGE- For purposes of subparagraph (A)(i), an individual shall not be treated as eligible for coverage under a group health plan before the first date on which such individual could be covered under such plan. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) NOTIFICATION REQUIREMENT- An assistance eligible individual shall notify in writing the group health plan with respect to which paragraph (1)(A) applies if such paragraph ceases to apply by reason of subparagraph (A)(i). Such notice shall be provided to the group health plan in such time and manner as may be specified by the Secretary of Labor. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) ASSISTANCE ELIGIBLE INDIVIDUAL- For purposes of this section, the term ‘assistance eligible individual’ means any qualified beneficiary if-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) at any time during the period that begins with September 1, 2008, and ends with December 31, 2009, such qualified beneficiary is eligible for COBRA continuation coverage, CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) such qualified beneficiary elects such coverage, CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





and(C) the qualifying (C) the qualifying event with respect to the COBRA continuation coverage consists of the involuntary termination of the covered employee’s employment and occurred during such period.(4), and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(D) at the time of the election such qualified beneficiary’s annual income is less than $1,000,000. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) EXTENSION OF ELECTION PERIOD AND EFFECT ON COVERAGE- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) IN GENERAL- Notwithstanding section 605(a) of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, section 4980B(f)(5)(A) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, section 2205(a) of the Public Health Service Act, andsection 8905a(c)(2) of title 5, United States Code, in the case of an individual who is a qualified beneficiary described in paragraph (3)(A) as of the date of the enactment of this Act and has not made the election referred to in paragraph (3)(B) as of such date, such individual may elect the COBRA continuation coverage under the COBRA continuation coverage provisions containing such sections during the 60-day period commencing with the date on which the notification required under paragraph (7)(C) is provided to such individual. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) COMMENCEMENT OF COVERAGE; NO REACH-BACK- Any COBRA continuation coverage elected by a qualified beneficiary during an extended election period under subparagraph (A)-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(i) shall commence on the date of the enactment of this Act, and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(ii) shall not extend beyond the period of COBRA continuation coverage that would have been required under the applicable COBRA continuation coverage provision if the coverage had been elected as required under such provision. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) PREEXISTING CONDITIONS- With respect to a qualified beneficiary who elects COBRA continuation coverage pursuant to subparagraph (A), the period-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(i) beginning on the date of the qualifying event, and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(ii) ending with the day before the date of the enactment of this Act, CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





shall be disregarded for purposes of determining the 63-day periods referred to in section 701)(2) of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, section 9801(c)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, and section 2701(c)(2) of the Public Health Service Act. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(5) EXPEDITED REVIEW OF DENIALS OF PREMIUM ASSISTANCE- In any case in which an individual requests treatment as an assistance eligible individual and is denied such treatment by the group health plan by reason of such individual’s ineligibility for COBRA continuation coverage, the Secretary of Labor (or the Secretary of Health and Human services in connection with COBRA continuation coverage which is provided other than pursuant to part 6 of subtitle B of title I of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974), in consultation with the Secretary of the Treasury, shall provide for expedited review of such denial. An individual shall be entitled to such review upon application to such Secretary in such form and manner as shall be provided by such Secretary. Such Secretary shall make a determination regarding such individual’s eligibility within 10 business days after receipt of such individual’s application for review under this paragraph. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(6) DISREGARD OF SUBSIDIES FOR PURPOSES OF FEDERAL AND STATE PROGRAMS- Notwithstanding any other provision of law, any premium reduction with respect to an assistance eligible individual under this subsection shall not be considered income or resources in determining eligibility for, or the amount of assistance or benefits provided under, any other public benefit provided under Federal law or the law of any State or political subdivision thereof. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(7) NOTICES TO INDIVIDUALS- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) GENERAL NOTICE- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(i) IN GENERAL- In the case of notices provided under section 606(4) of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (29 U.S.C. 1166(4)), section 4980B(f)(6)(D) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, section 2206(4) of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 300bb-6(4)), or section 8905a(f)(2)(A) of title 5, United States Code, with respect to individuals who, during the period described in paragraph (3)(A), become entitled to elect COBRA continuation coverage, such notices shall include an additional notification to the recipient of the availability of premium reduction with respect to such coverage under this subsection. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(ii) ALTERNATIVE NOTICE- In the case of COBRA continuation coverage to which the notice provision under such sections does not apply, the Secretary of Labor, in consultation with the Secretary of the Treasury and the Secretary of Health and Human Services, shall, in coordination with administrators of the group health plans (or other entities) that provide or administer the COBRA continuation coverage involved, provide rules requiring the provision of such notice. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(iii) FORM- The requirement of the additional notification under this subparagraph may be met by amendment of existing notice forms or by inclusion of a separate document with the notice otherwise required. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS- Each additional notification under subparagraph (A) shall include-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(i) the forms necessary for establishing eligibility for premium reduction under this subsection, CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(ii) the name, address, and telephone number necessary to contact the plan administrator and any other person maintaining relevant information in connection with such premium reduction, CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(iii) a description of the extended election period provided for in paragraph (4)(A), CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(iv) a description of the obligation of the qualified beneficiary under paragraph (2)(C) to notify the plan providing continuation coverage of eligibility for subsequent coverage under another group health plan or eligibility for benefits under title XVIII of the Social Security Act and the penalty provided for failure to so notify the plan, and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(v) a description, displayed in a prominent manner, of the qualified beneficiary’s right to a reduced premium and any conditions on entitlement to the reduced premium. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) NOTICE RELATING TO RETROACTIVE COVERAGE- In the case of an individual described in paragraph (3)(A) who has elected COBRA continuation coverage as of the date of enactment of this Act or an individual described in paragraph (4)(A), the administrator of the group health plan (or other entity) involved shall provide (within 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act) for the additional notification required to be provided under subparagraph (A). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(D) MODEL NOTICES- Not later than 30 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Labor, in consultation with the Secretary of the Treasury and the Secretary of Health and Human Services, shall prescribe models for the additional notification required under this paragraph. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(8) SAFEGUARDS- The Secretary of the Treasury shall provide such rules, procedures, regulations, and other guidance as may be necessary and appropriate to prevent fraud and abuse under this subsection. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(9) OUTREACH- The Secretary of Labor, in consultation with the Secretary of the Treasury and the Secretary of Health and Human Services, shall provide outreach consisting of public education and enrollment assistance relating to premium reduction provided under this subsection. Such outreach shall target employers, group health plan administrators, public assistance programs, States, insurers, and other entities as determined appropriate by such Secretaries. Such outreach shall include an initial focus on those individuals electing continuation coverage who are referred to in paragraph (7)(C). Information on such premium reduction, including enrollment, shall also be made available on website of the Departments of Labor, Treasury, and Health and Human Services. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(10) DEFINITIONS- For purposes of this subsection-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) ADMINISTRATOR- The term ‘administrator’ has the meaning given such term in section 3(16) of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) COBRA CONTINUATION COVERAGE- The term ‘COBRA continuation coverage’ means continuation coverage provided pursuant to part 6 of subtitle B of title I of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (other than under section 609), title XXII of the Public Health Service Act, section 4980B of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (other than subsection (f)(1) of such section insofar as it relates to pediatric vaccines), orsection 8905a of title 5, United States Code, or under a State program that provides continuation coverage comparable to such continuation coverage. Such term does not include coverage under a health flexible spending arrangement. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) COBRA CONTINUATION PROVISION- The term ‘COBRA continuation provision’ means the provisions of law described in subparagraph (B). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(D) COVERED EMPLOYEE- The term ‘covered employee’ has the meaning given such term in section 607(2) of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(E) QUALIFIED BENEFICIARY- The term ‘qualified beneficiary’ has the meaning given such term in section 607(3) of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(F) GROUP HEALTH PLAN- The term ‘group health plan’ has the meaning given such term in section 607(1) of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(G) STATE- The term ‘State’ includes the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(11) REPORTS- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) INTERIM REPORT- The Secretary of the Treasury shall submit an interim report to the Committee on Education and Labor, the Committee on Ways and Means, and the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions and the Committee on Finance of the Senate regarding the premium reduction provided under this subsection that includes-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(i) the number of individuals provided such assistance as of the date of the report; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(ii) the total amount of expenditures incurred (with administrative expenditures noted separately) in connection with such assistance as of the date of the report. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) FINAL REPORT- As soon as practicable after the last period of COBRA continuation coverage for which premium reduction is provided under this section, the Secretary of the Treasury shall submit a final report to each Committee referred to in subparagraph (A) that includes-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(i) the number of individuals provided premium reduction under this section; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(ii) the average dollar amount (monthly and annually) of premium reductions provided to such individuals; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(iii) the total amount of expenditures incurred (with administrative expenditures noted separately) in connection with premium reduction under this section. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(12) COBRA PREMIUM ASSISTANCE- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) IN GENERAL- Subchapter B of chapter 65 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by adding at the end the following new section: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘SEC. 6431. COBRA PREMIUM ASSISTANCE.

‘(a) In General- The entity to whom premiums are payable under COBRA continuation coverage shall be reimbursed for the amount of premiums not paid by plan beneficiaries by reason of section 3002(a) of the Health Insurance Assistance for the Unemployed Act of 2009. Such amount shall be treated as a credit against the requirement of such entity to make deposits of payroll taxes. To the extent that such amount exceeds the amount of such taxes, the Secretary shall pay to such entity the amount of such excess. No payment may be made under this subsection to an entity with respect to any assistance eligible individual until after such entity has received the reduced premium from such individual required under section 3002(a)(1)(A) of such Act. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(b) Payroll Taxes- For purposes of this section, the term ‘payroll taxes’ means-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) amounts required to be deducted and withheld for the payroll period under section 3401 (relating to wage withholding), CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) amounts required to be deducted for the payroll period under section 3102 (relating to FICA employee taxes), and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(3) amounts of the taxes imposed for the payroll period under section 3111 (relating to FICA employer taxes). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(c) Treatment of Credit- Except as otherwise provided by the Secretary, the credit described in subsection (a) shall be applied as though the employer had paid to the Secretary, on the day that the qualified beneficiary’s premium payment is received, an amount equal to such credit. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(d) Treatment of Payment- For purposes ofsection 1324(b)(2) of title 31, United States Code, any payment under this subsection shall be treated in the same manner as a refund of the credit under section 35. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(e) Reporting- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) IN GENERAL- Each entity entitled to reimbursement under subsection (a) for any period shall submit such reports as the Secretary may require, including-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(A) an attestation of involuntary termination of employment for each covered employee on the basis of whose termination entitlement to reimbursement is claimed under subsection (a), and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(B) a report of the amount of payroll taxes offset under subsection (a) for the reporting period and the estimated offsets of such taxes for the subsequent reporting period in connection with reimbursements under subsection (a). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) TIMING OF REPORTS RELATING TO AMOUNT OF PAYROLL TAXES- Reports required under paragraph (1)(B) shall be submitted at the same time as deposits of taxes imposed by chapters 21, 22, and 24 or at such time as is specified by the Secretary. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(f) Regulations- The Secretary may issue such regulations or other guidance as may be necessary or appropriate to carry out this section, including the requirement to report information or the establishment of other methods for verifying the correct amounts of payments and credits under this section.’. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) SOCIAL SECURITY TRUST FUNDS HELD HARMLESS- In determining any amount transferred or appropriated to any fund under the Social Security Act, section 6431 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 shall not be taken into account. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) CLERICAL AMENDMENT- The table of sections for subchapter B of chapter 65 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by adding at the end the following new item: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘Sec. 6431. COBRA premium assistance.’. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(D) EFFECTIVE DATE- The amendments made by this paragraph shall apply to premiums to which subsection (a)(1)(A) applies. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(13) PENALTY FOR FAILURE TO NOTIFY HEALTH PLAN OF CESSATION OF ELIGIBILITY FOR PREMIUM ASSISTANCE- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) IN GENERAL- Part I of subchapter B of chapter 68 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by adding at the end the following new section: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘SEC. 6720C. PENALTY FOR FAILURE TO NOTIFY HEALTH PLAN OF CESSATION OF ELIGIBILITY FOR COBRA PREMIUM ASSISTANCE.

‘(a) In General- Any person required to notify a group health plan under section 3002(a)(2)(C)) of the Health Insurance Assistance for the Unemployed Act of 2009 who fails to make such a notification at such time and in such manner as the Secretary of Labor may require shall pay a penalty of 110 percent of the premium reduction provided under such section after termination of eligibility under such subsection. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(b) Reasonable Cause Exception- No penalty shall be imposed under subsection (a) with respect to any failure if it is shown that such failure is due to reasonable cause and not to willful neglect.’. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) CLERICAL AMENDMENT- The table of sections of part I of subchapter B of chapter 68 of such Code is amended by adding at the end the following new item: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘Sec. 6720C. Penalty for failure to notify health plan of cessation of eligibility for COBRA premium assistance.’. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) EFFECTIVE DATE- The amendments made by this paragraph shall apply to failures occurring after the date of the enactment of this Act. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(14) COORDINATION WITH HCTC- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) IN GENERAL- Subsection (g) of section 35 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by redesignating paragraph (9) as paragraph (10) and inserting after paragraph (8) the following new paragraph: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(9) COBRA PREMIUM ASSISTANCE- In the case of an assistance eligible individual who receives premium reduction for COBRA continuation coverage under section 3002(a) of the Health Insurance Assistance for the Unemployed Act of 2009 for any month during the taxable year, such individual shall not be treated as an eligible individual, a certified individual, or a qualifying family member for purposes of this section or section 7527 with respect to such month.’. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) EFFECTIVE DATE- The amendment made by subparagraph (A) shall apply to taxable years ending after the date of the enactment of this Act. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(15) EXCLUSION OF COBRA PREMIUM ASSISTANCE FROM GROSS INCOME- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) IN GENERAL- Part III of subchapter B of chapter 1 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by inserting after section 139B the following new section: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘SEC. 139C. COBRA PREMIUM ASSISTANCE.

‘In the case of an assistance eligible individual (as defined in section 3002 of the Health Insurance Assistance for the Unemployed Act of 2009), gross income does not include any premium reduction provided under subsection (a) of such section.’. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) CLERICAL AMENDMENT- The table of sections for part III of subchapter B of chapter 1 of such Code is amended by inserting after the item relating to section 139B the following new item: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘Sec. 139C. COBRA premium assistance.’. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) EFFECTIVE DATE- The amendments made by this paragraph shall apply to taxable years ending after the date of the enactment of this Act. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Extension of COBRA Benefits for Older or Long-Term Employees- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) ERISA AMENDMENT- Section 602(2)(A) of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 is amended by adding at the end the following new clauses: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(x) SPECIAL RULE FOR OLDER OR LONG-TERM EMPLOYEES GENERALLY- In the case of a qualifying event described in section 603(2) with respect to a covered employee who (as of such qualifying event) has attained age 55 or has completed 10 or more years of service with the entity that is the employer at the time of the qualifying event, clauses (i) and (ii) shall not apply. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(xi) YEAR OF SERVICE- For purposes of this subparagraph, the term ‘year of service’ shall have the meaning provided in section 202(a)(3).’. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) IRC AMENDMENT- Clause (i) of section 4980B(f)(2)(B) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by adding at the end the following new subclauses: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(X) SPECIAL RULE FOR OLDER OR LONG-TERM EMPLOYEES GENERALLY- In the case of a qualifying event described in paragraph (3)(B) with respect to a covered employee who (as of such qualifying event) has attained age 55 or has completed 10 or more years of service with the entity that is the employer at the time of the qualifying event, subclauses (I) and (II) shall not apply. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(XI) YEAR OF SERVICE- For purposes of this clause, the term ‘year of service’ shall have the meaning provided in section 202(a)(3) of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974.’. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) PHSA AMENDMENT- Section 2202(2)(A) of the Public Health Service Act is amended by adding at the end the following new clauses: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(viii) SPECIAL RULE FOR OLDER OR LONG-TERM EMPLOYEES GENERALLY- In the case of a qualifying event described in section 2203(2) with respect to a covered employee who (as of such qualifying event) has attained age 55 or has completed 10 or more years of service with the entity that is the employer at the time of the qualifying event, clauses (i) and (ii) shall not apply. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(ix) YEAR OF SERVICE- For purposes of this subparagraph, the term ‘year of service’ shall have the meaning provided in section 202(a)(3) of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974.’. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) EFFECTIVE DATE OF AMENDMENTS- The amendments made by this subsection shall apply to periods of coverage which would (without regard to the amendments made by this section) end on or after the date of the enactment of this Act. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 3003. TEMPORARY OPTIONAL MEDICAID COVERAGE FOR THE UNEMPLOYED.

(a) In General- Section 1902 of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1396b) is amended-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) in subsection (a)(10)(A)(ii)-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) by striking ‘or’ at the end of subclause (XVIII); CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) by adding ‘or’ at the end of subclause (XIX); and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) by adding at the end the following new subclause: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(XX) who are described in subsection (dd)(1) (relating to certain unemployed individuals and their families);’; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) by adding at the end the following new subsection: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(dd)(1) Individuals described in this paragraph are-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(A) individuals who-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(i) are within one or more of the categories described in paragraph (2), as elected under the State plan; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(ii) meet the applicable requirements of paragraph (3); and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(B) individuals who-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(i) are the spouse, or dependent child under 19 years of age, of an individual described in subparagraph (A); and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(ii) meet the requirement of paragraph (3)(B). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) The categories of individuals described in this paragraph are each of the following: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(A)(i) Individuals who are receiving unemployment compensation benefits; and‘(ii) i. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(B) Individuals who were receiving, but have exhausted, unemployment compensation benefits on or after July 1, 2008. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(BC) Individuals who are involuntarily unemployed and were involuntarily separated from employment on or after September 1, 2008, and before January 1, 2011, whose family gross income does not exceed a percentage specified by the State (not to exceed 200 percent) of the income official poverty line (as defined by the Office of Management and Budget, and revised annually in accordance with section 673(2) of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981) applicable to a family of the size involved, and who, but for subsection (a)(10)(A)(ii)(XX), are not eligible for medical assistance under this title or health assistance under title XXI. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(CD) Individuals who are involuntarily unemployed and were involuntarily separated from employment on or after September 1, 2008, and before January 1, 2011, who are members of households participating in the supplemental nutrition assistance program established under the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 (7 U.S.C. 2011 et seq), and who, but for subsection (a)(10)(A)(ii)(XX), are not eligible for medical assistance under this title or health assistance under title XXI. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(3) The requirements of this paragraph with respect to an individual are the following:

‘(A) In the case of individuals A State plan may elect one or more of the categories described in this paragraph but may not elect the category described in subparagraph (B) unless the State plan also elects the category described in subparagraph (A). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink




‘(3) The requirements of this paragraph with respect to an individual are the following: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(A) In the case of individuals within a category described in subparagraph (A) or (B) of paragraph (2), the individual was involuntarily separated from employment on or after September 1, 2008, and before January 1, 2011, or meets such comparable requirement as the Secretary specifies through rule, guidance, or otherwise in the case of an individual who was an independent contractor. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(B) The individual is not otherwise covered under creditable coverage, as defined in section 2701(c) of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 300gg(c)), but applied without regard to paragraph (1)(F) of such section and without regard to coverage provided by reason of the application of subsection (a)(10)(A)(ii)(XX). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(4)(A) No income or resources test shall be applied with respect to any category of individuals described in subparagraph (A) or (C, (B), or (D) of paragraph (2) who are eligible for medical assistance only by reason of the application of subsection (a)(10)(A)(ii)(XX). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(B) Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to prevent a State from imposing a resource test for the category of individuals described in paragraph (2)(BC)). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(C) In the case of individuals described in paragraph (2)(A) or (2)(C), the requirements provided medical assistance by reason of the application of subsection (a)(10)(A)(ii)(XX), the requirements of subsections (i)(22) and (x) in section 1903 shall not apply.’. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) 100 Percent Federal Matching Rate- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) FMAP FOR TIME-LIMITED PERIOD- The third sentence of section 1905(b) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 1396d(b)) is amended by inserting before the period at the end the following: ‘and for items and services furnished on or after the date of enactment of this Act and before January 1, 2011, to individuals who are eligible for medical assistance only by reason of the application of section 1902(a)(10)(A)(ii)(XX)’. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) CERTAIN ENROLLMENT-RELATED ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS- Notwithstanding any other provision of law, for purposes of applying section 1903(a) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1396b(a)), with respect to expenditures incurred on or after the date of the enactment of this Act and before January 1, 2011, for costs of administration (including outreach and the modification and operation of eligibility information systems) attributable to eligibility determination and enrollment of individuals who are eligible for medical assistance only by reason of the application of section 1902(a)(10)(A)(ii)(XX) of such Act, as added by subsection (a)(1), the Federal matching percentage shall be 100 percent instead of the matching percentage otherwise applicable. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) Conforming Amendments- (1) Section 1903(f)(4) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 1396c(f)(4)) is amended by inserting ‘1902(a)(10)(A)(ii)(XX), or’ after ‘1902(a)(10)(A)(ii)(XIX),’. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) Section 1905(a) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 1396d(a)) is amended, in the matter preceding paragraph (1)-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) by striking ‘or’ at the end of clause (xii); CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) by adding ‘or’ at the end of clause (xiii); and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) by inserting after clause (xiii) the following new clause: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(xiv) individuals described in section 1902(dd)(1),’. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

TITLE IV--HEALTH INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 4001. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS OF TITLE.

(a) Short Title- This title may be cited as the ‘Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act’ or the ‘HITECH Act’. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Table of Contents of Title- The table of contents of this title is as follows: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4001. Short title; table of contents of title. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

Subtitle A--Promotion of Health Information Technology

Part I--Improving Health Care Quality, Safety, and Efficiency

Sec. 4101. ONCHIT; standards development and adoption. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘TITLE XXX--HEALTH INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AND QUALITY

‘Sec. 3000. Definitions. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘Subtitle A--Promotion of Health Information Technology

‘Sec. 3001. Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘Sec. 3002. HIT Policy Committee. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘Sec. 3003. HIT Standards Committee. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘Sec. 3004. Process for adoption of endorsed recommendations; adoption of initial set of standards, implementation specifications, and certification criteria. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘Sec. 3005. Application and use of adopted standards and implementation specifications by Federal agencies. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘Sec. 3006. Voluntary application and use of adopted standards and implementation specifications by private entities. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘Sec. 3007. Federal health information technology. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘Sec. 3008. Transitions. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘Sec. 3009. Relation to HIPAA privacy and security law. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘Sec. 3010. Authorization for appropriations. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

Sec. 4102. Technical amendment. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4103. American technology required. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

Part II--Application and Use of Adopted Health Information Technology Standards; Reports

Sec. 4111. Coordination of Federal activities with adopted standards and implementation specifications. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4112. Application to private entities. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4113. Study and reports. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

Subtitle B--Testing of Health Information Technology

Sec. 4201. National Institute for Standards and Technology testing. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4202. Research and development programs. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

Subtitle C--Incentives for the Use of Health Information Technology

Part I--Grants and Loans Funding

Sec. 4301. Grant, loan, and demonstration programs. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘Subtitle B--Incentives for the Use of Health Information Technology

‘Sec. 3011. Immediate funding to strengthen the health information technology infrastructure. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘Sec. 3012. Health information technology implementation assistance. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘Sec. 3013. State grants to promote health information technology. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘Sec. 3014. Competitive grants to States and Indian tribes for the development of loan programs to facilitate the widespread adoption of certified EHR technology. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘Sec. 3015. Demonstration program to integrate information technology into clinical education. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘Sec. 3016. Information technology professionals on health care. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘Sec. 3017. General grant and loan provisions. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘Sec. 3018. Authorization for appropriations. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

Part II--Medicare Program

Sec. 4311. Incentives for eligible professionals. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4312. Incentives for hospitals. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4313. Treatment of payments and savings; implementation funding. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4314. Study on application of EHR payment incentives for providers not receiving other incentive payments. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

Part III--Medicaid Funding

Sec. 4321. Medicaid provider HIT adoption and operation payments; implementation funding. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

Subtitle D--Privacy

Sec. 4400. Definitions. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

Part I--Improved Privacy Provisions and Security Provisions

Sec. 4401. Application of security provisions and penalties to business associates of covered entities; annual guidance on security provisions. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4402. Notification in the case of breach. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4403. Education on Health Information Privacy. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4404. Application of privacy provisions and penalties to business associates of covered entities. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4405. Restrictions on certain disclosures and sales of health information; accounting of certain protected health information disclosures; access to certain information in electronic format. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4406. Conditions on certain contacts as part of health care operations. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4407. Temporary breach notification requirement for vendors of personal health records and other non-HIPAA covered entities. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4408. Business associate contracts required for certain entities. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4409. Clarification of application of wrongful disclosures criminal penalties. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4410. Improved enforcement. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4411. Audits. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4412. Securing individually identifiable health information. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4413. Special rule for information to reduce medication errors and improve patient safety. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

Part II--Relationship to Other Laws; Regulatory References; Effective Date; Reports

Sec. 4421. Relationship to other laws. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4422. Regulatory references. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4423. Effective date. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





Sec. 4424. Studies, reports, guidance. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

Subtitle A--Promotion of Health Information Technology CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

PART I1--IMPROVING HEALTH CARE QUALITY, SAFETY, AND EFFICIENCY

SEC. 4101. ONCHIT; STANDARDS DEVELOPMENT AND ADOPTION.

The Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 201 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘TITLE XXX--HEALTH INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AND QUALITY CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘SEC. 3000. DEFINITIONS.

‘In this title: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) CERTIFIED EHR TECHNOLOGY- The term ‘certified EHR technology’ means a qualified electronic health record that is certified pursuant to section 3001(c)(5) as meeting standards adopted under section 3004 that are applicable to the type of record involved (as determined by the Secretary, such as an ambulatory electronic health record for office-based physicians or an inpatient hospital electronic health record for hospitals). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) ENTERPRISE INTEGRATION- The term ‘enterprise integration’ means the electronic linkage of health care providers, health plans, the government, and other interested parties, to enable the electronic exchange and use of health information among all the components in the health care infrastructure in accordance with applicable law, and such term includes related application protocols and other related standards. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(3) HEALTH CARE PROVIDER- The term ‘health care provider’ means a hospital, skilled nursing facility, nursing facility, home health entity or other long term care facility, health care clinic, Federally qualified health center, group practice (as defined in section 1877(h)(4) of the Social Security Act), a pharmacist, a pharmacy, a laboratory, a physician (as defined in section 1861(r) of the Social Security Act), a practitioner (as described in section 1842(b)(18)(C) of the Social Security Act), a provider operated by, or under contract with, the Indian Health Service or by an Indian tribe (as defined in the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act), tribal organization, or urban Indian organization (as defined in section 4 of the Indian Health Care Improvement Act), a rural health clinic, a covered entity under section 340B, an ambulatory surgical center described in section 1833(i) of the Social Security Act, and any other category of facility or clinician determined appropriate by the Secretary. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(4) HEALTH INFORMATION- The term ‘health information’ has the meaning given such term in section 1171(4) of the Social Security Act. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(5) HEALTH INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY- The term ‘health information technology’ means hardware, software, integrated technologies and related licenses, intellectual property, upgrades, and packaged solutions sold as services that are specifically designed for use by health care entities for the electronic creation, maintenance, or exchange of health information. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(6) HEALTH PLAN- The term ‘health plan’ has the meaning given such term in section 1171(5) of the Social Security Act. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(7) HIT POLICY COMMITTEE- The term ‘HIT Policy Committee’ means such Committee established under section 3002(a). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(8) HIT STANDARDS COMMITTEE- The term ‘HIT Standards Committee’ means such Committee established under section 3003(a). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(9) INDIVIDUALLY IDENTIFIABLE HEALTH INFORMATION- The term ‘individually identifiable health information’ has the meaning given such term in section 1171(6) of the Social Security Act. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(10) LABORATORY- The term ‘laboratory’ has the meaning given such term in section 353(a). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(11) NATIONAL COORDINATOR- The term ‘National Coordinator’ means the head of the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology established under section 3001(a). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(12) PHARMACIST- The term ‘pharmacist’ has the meaning given such term in section 804(2) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(13) QUALIFIED ELECTRONIC HEALTH RECORD- The term ‘qualified electronic health record’ means an electronic record of health-related information on an individual that-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(A) includes patient demographic and clinical health information, such as medical history and problem lists; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(B) has the capacity-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(i) to provide clinical decision support; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(ii) to support physician order entry; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(iii) to capture and query information relevant to health care quality; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(iv) to exchange electronic health information with, and integrate such information from other sources. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(14) STATE- The term ‘State’ means each of the several States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Northern Mariana Islands. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘Subtitle A--Promotion of Health Information Technology CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘SEC. 3001. OFFICE OF THE NATIONAL COORDINATOR FOR HEALTH INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY.

‘(a) Establishment- There is established within the Department of Health and Human Services an Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (referred to in this section as the ‘Office’). The Office shall be headed by a National Coordinator who shall be appointed by the Secretary and shall report directly to the Secretary. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(b) Purpose- The National Coordinator shall perform the duties under subsection (c) in a manner consistent with the development of a nationwide health information technology infrastructure that allows for the electronic use and exchange of information and that-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) ensures that each patient’s health information is secure and protected, in accordance with applicable law; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) improves health care quality, reduces medical errors, reduces health disparities, and advances the delivery of patient-centered medical care; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(3) reduces health care costs resulting from inefficiency, medical errors, inappropriate care, duplicative care, and incomplete information; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(4) provides appropriate information to help guide medical decisions at the time and place of care; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(5) ensures the inclusion of meaningful public input in such development of such infrastructure; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(6) improves the coordination of care and information among hospitals, laboratories, physician offices, and other entities through an effective infrastructure for the secure and authorized exchange of health care information; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(7) improves public health activities and facilitates the early identification and rapid response to public health threats and emergencies, including bioterror events and infectious disease outbreaks; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(8) facilitates health and clinical research and health care quality; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(9) promotes prevention of chronic diseases; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(10) promotes a more effective marketplace, greater competition, greater systems analysis, increased consumer choice, and improved outcomes in health care services; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(11) improves efforts to reduce health disparities. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(c) Duties of the National Coordinator- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) STANDARDS- The National Coordinator shall review and determine whether to endorse each standard, implementation specification, and certification criterion for the electronic exchange and use of health information that is recommended by the HIT Standards Committee under section 3003 for purposes of adoption under section 3004. The Coordinator shall make such determination, and report to the Secretary such determination, not later than 45 days after the date the recommendation is received by the Coordinator. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) HIT POLICY COORDINATION- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(A) IN GENERAL- The National Coordinator shall coordinate health information technology policy and programs of the Department with those of other relevant executive branch agencies with a goal of avoiding duplication of efforts and of helping to ensure that each agency undertakes health information technology activities primarily within the areas of its greatest expertise and technical capability and in a manner towards a coordinated national goal. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(B) HIT POLICY AND STANDARDS COMMITTEES- The National Coordinator shall be a leading member in the establishment and operations of the HIT Policy Committee and the HIT Standards Committee and shall serve as a liaison among those two Committees and the Federal Government. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(3) STRATEGIC PLAN- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(A) IN GENERAL- The National Coordinator shall, in consultation with other appropriate Federal agencies (including the National Institute of Standards and Technology), update the Federal Health IT Strategic Plan (developed as of June 3, 2008) to include specific objectives, milestones, and metrics with respect to the following: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(i) The electronic exchange and use of health information and the enterprise integration of such information. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(ii) The utilization of an electronic health record for each person in the United States by 2014. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(iii) The incorporation of privacy and security protections for the electronic exchange of an individual’s individually identifiable health information. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(iv) Ensuring security methods to ensure appropriate authorization and electronic authentication of health information and specifying technologies or methodologies for rendering health information unusable, unreadable, or indecipherable. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(v) Specifying a framework for coordination and flow of recommendations and policies under this subtitle among the Secretary, the National Coordinator, the HIT Policy Committee, the HIT Standards Committee, and other health information exchanges and other relevant entities. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(vi) Methods to foster the public understanding of health information technology. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(vii) Strategies to enhance the use of health information technology in improving the quality of health care, reducing medical errors, reducing health disparities, improving public health, and improving the continuity of care among health care settings. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(B) COLLABORATION- The strategic plan shall be updated through collaboration of public and private entities. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(C) MEASURABLE OUTCOME GOALS- The strategic plan update shall include measurable outcome goals. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(D) PUBLICATION- The National Coordinator shall republish the strategic plan, including all updates. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(4) WEBSITE- The National Coordinator shall maintain and frequently update an Internet website on which there is posted information on the work, schedules, reports, recommendations, and other information to ensure transparency in promotion of a nationwide health information technology infrastructure. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(5) CERTIFICATION- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(A) IN GENERAL- The National Coordinator, in consultation with the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, shall develop a program (either directly or by contract) for the voluntary certification of health information technology as being in compliance with applicable certification criteria adopted under this subtitle. Such program shall include testing of the technology in accordance with section 4201(b) of the HITECH Act. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(B) CERTIFICATION CRITERIA DESCRIBED- In this title, the term ‘certification criteria’ means, with respect to standards and implementation specifications for health information technology, criteria to establish that the technology meets such standards and implementation specifications. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(6) REPORTS AND PUBLICATIONS- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(A) REPORT ON ADDITIONAL FUNDING OR AUTHORITY NEEDED- Not later than 12 months after the date of the enactment of this title, the National Coordinator shall submit to the appropriate committees of jurisdiction of the House of Representatives and the Senate a report on any additional funding or authority the Coordinator or the HIT Policy Committee or HIT Standards Committee requires to evaluate and develop standards, implementation specifications, and certification criteria, or to achieve full participation of stakeholders in the adoption of a nationwide health information technology infrastructure that allows for the electronic use and exchange of health information. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(B) IMPLEMENTATION REPORT- The National Coordinator shall prepare a report that identifies lessons learned from major public and private health care systems in their implementation of health information technology, including information on whether the technologies and practices developed by such systems may be applicable to and usable in whole or in part by other health care providers. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(C) ASSESSMENT OF IMPACT OF HIT ON COMMUNITIES WITH HEALTH DISPARITIES AND UNINSURED, UNDERINSURED, AND MEDICALLY UNDERSERVED AREAS- The National Coordinator shall assess and publish the impact of health information technology in communities with health disparities and in areas with a high proportion of individuals who are uninsured, underinsured, and medically underserved individuals (including urban and rural areas) and identify practices to increase the adoption of such technology by health care providers in such communities. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(D) EVALUATION OF BENEFITS AND COSTS OF THE ELECTRONIC USE AND EXCHANGE OF HEALTH INFORMATION- The National Coordinator shall evaluate and publish evidence on the benefits and costs of the electronic use and exchange of health information and assess to whom these benefits and costs accrue. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(E) RESOURCE REQUIREMENTS- The National Coordinator shall estimate and publish resources required annually to reach the goal of utilization of an electronic health record for each person in the United States by 2014, including the required level of Federal funding, expectations for regional, State, and private investment, and the expected contributions by volunteers to activities for the utilization of such records. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(7) ASSISTANCE- The National Coordinator may provide financial assistance to consumer advocacy groups and not-for-profit entities that work in the public interest for purposes of defraying the cost to such groups and entities to participate under, whether in whole or in part, the National Technology Transfer Act of 1995 (15 U.S.C. 272 note). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(8) GOVERNANCE FOR NATIONWIDE HEALTH INFORMATION NETWORK- The National Coordinator shall establish a governance mechanism for the nationwide health information network. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(d) Detail of Federal Employees- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) IN GENERAL- Upon the request of the National Coordinator, the head of any Federal agency is authorized to detail, with or without reimbursement from the Office, any of the personnel of such agency to the Office to assist it in carrying out its duties under this section. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) EFFECT OF DETAIL- Any detail of personnel under paragraph (1) shall-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(A) not interrupt or otherwise affect the civil service status or privileges of the Federal employee; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(B) be in addition to any other staff of the Department employed by the National Coordinator. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(3) ACCEPTANCE OF DETAILEES- Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Office may accept detailed personnel from other Federal agencies without regard to whether the agency described under paragraph (1) is reimbursed. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(e) Chief Privacy Officer of the Office of the National Coordinator- Not later than 12 months after the date of the enactment of this title, the Secretary shall appoint a Chief Privacy Officer of the Office of the National Coordinator, whose duty it shall be to advise the National Coordinator on privacy, security, and data stewardship of electronic health information and to coordinate with other Federal agencies (and similar privacy officers in such agencies), with State and regional efforts, and with foreign countries with regard to the privacy, security, and data stewardship of electronic individually identifiable health information. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘SEC. 3002. HIT POLICY COMMITTEE.

‘(a) Establishment- There is established a HIT Policy Committee to make policy recommendations to the National Coordinator relating to the implementation of a nationwide health information technology infrastructure, including implementation of the strategic plan described in section 3001(c)(3). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(b) Duties- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) RECOMMENDATIONS ON HEALTH INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY INFRASTRUCTURE- The HIT Policy Committee shall recommend a policy framework for the development and adoption of a nationwide health information technology infrastructure that permits the electronic exchange and use of health information as is consistent with the strategic plan under section 3001(c)(3) and that includes the recommendations under paragraph (2). The Committee shall update such recommendations and make new recommendations as appropriate. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) SPECIFIC AREAS OF STANDARD DEVELOPMENT- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(A) IN GENERAL- The HIT Policy Committee shall recommend the areas in which standards, implementation specifications, and certification criteria are needed for the electronic exchange and use of health information for purposes of adoption under section 3004 and shall recommend an order of priority for the development, harmonization, and recognition of such standards, specifications, and certification criteria among the areas so recommended. Such standards and implementation specifications shall include named standards, architectures, and software schemes for the authentication and security of individually identifiable health information and other information as needed to ensure the reproducible development of common solutions across disparate entities. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(B) AREAS REQUIRED FOR CONSIDERATION- For purposes of subparagraph (A), the HIT Policy Committee shall make recommendations for at least the following areas: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(i) Technologies that protect the privacy of health information and promote security in a qualified electronic health record, including for the segmentation and protection from disclosure of specific and sensitive individually identifiable health information with the goal of minimizing the reluctance of patients to seek care (or disclose information about a condition) because of privacy concerns, in accordance with applicable law, and for the use and disclosure of limited data sets of such information. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(ii) A nationwide health information technology infrastructure that allows for the electronic use and accurate exchange of health information. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(iii) The utilization of a certified electronic health record for each person in the United States by 2014. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(iv) Technologies that as a part of a qualified electronic health record allow for an accounting of disclosures made by a covered entity (as defined for purposes of regulations promulgated under section 264(c) of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996) for purposes of treatment, payment, and health care operations (as such terms are defined for purposes of such regulations). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(v) The use of certified electronic health records to improve the quality of health care, such as by promoting the coordination of health care and improving continuity of health care among health care providers, by reducing medical errors, by improving population health, by reducing health disparities, and by advancing research and education. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(C) OTHER AREAS FOR CONSIDERATION- In making recommendations under subparagraph (A), the HIT Policy Committee may consider the following additional areas: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(i) The appropriate uses of a nationwide health information infrastructure, including for purposes of-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(I) the collection of quality data and public reporting; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(II) biosurveillance and public health; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(III) medical and clinical research; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(IV) drug safety. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(ii) Self-service technologies that facilitate the use and exchange of patient information and reduce wait times. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(iii) Telemedicine technologies, in order to reduce travel requirements for patients in remote areas. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(iv) Technologies that facilitate home health care and the monitoring of patients recuperating at home. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(v) Technologies that help reduce medical errors. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(vi) Technologies that facilitate the continuity of care among health settings. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(vii) Technologies that meet the needs of diverse populations. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(viii) Any other technology that the HIT Policy Committee finds to be among the technologies with the greatest potential to improve the quality and efficiency of health care. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(3) FORUM- The HIT Policy Committee shall serve as a forum for broad stakeholder input with specific expertise in policies relating to the matters described in paragraphs (1) and (2). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(c) Membership and Operations- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) IN GENERAL- The National Coordinator shall provide leadership in the establishment and operations of the HIT Policy Committee. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) MEMBERSHIP- The membership of the HIT Policy Committee shall at least reflect providers, ancillary healthcare workers, consumers, purchasers, health plans, technology vendors, researchers, relevant Federal agencies, and individuals with technical expertise on health care quality, privacy and security, and on the electronic exchange and use of health information. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(3) CONSIDERATION- The National Coordinator shall ensure that the relevant recommendations and comments from the National Committee on Vital and Health Statistics are considered in the development of policies. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(d) Application of FACA- The Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App.), other than section 14 of such Act, shall apply to the HIT Policy Committee. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(e) Publication- The Secretary shall provide for publication in the Federal Register and the posting on the Internet website of the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology of all policy recommendations made by the HIT Policy Committee under this section. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘SEC. 3003. HIT STANDARDS COMMITTEE.

‘(a) Establishment- There is established a committee to be known as the HIT Standards Committee to recommend to the National Coordinator standards, implementation specifications, and certification criteria for the electronic exchange and use of health information for purposes of adoption under section 3004, consistent with the implementation of the strategic plan described in section 3001(c)(3) and beginning with the areas listed in section 3002(b)(2)(B) in accordance with policies developed by the HIT Policy Committee. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(b) Duties- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) STANDARDS DEVELOPMENT- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(A) IN GENERAL- The HIT Standards Committee shall recommend to the National Coordinator standards, implementation specifications, and certification criteria described in subsection (a) that have been developed, harmonized, or recognized by the HIT Standards Committee. The HIT Standards Committee shall update such recommendations and make new recommendations as appropriate, including in response to a notification sent under section 3004(b)(2). Such recommendations shall be consistent with the latest recommendations made by the HIT Policy Committee. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(B) PILOT TESTING OF STANDARDS AND IMPLEMENTATION SPECIFICATIONS- In the development, harmonization, or recognition of standards and implementation specifications, the HIT Standards Committee shall, as appropriate, provide for the testing of such standards and specifications by the National Institute for Standards and Technology under section 4201 of the HITECH Act. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(C) CONSISTENCY- The standards, implementation specifications, and certification criteria recommended under this subsection shall be consistent with the standards for information transactions and data elements adopted pursuant to section 1173 of the Social Security Act. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) FORUM- The HIT Standards Committee shall serve as a forum for the participation of a broad range of stakeholders to provide input on the development, harmonization, and recognition of standards, implementation specifications, and certification criteria necessary for the development and adoption of a nationwide health information technology infrastructure that allows for the electronic use and exchange of health information. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(3) SCHEDULE- Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this title, the HIT Standards Committee shall develop a schedule for the assessment of policy recommendations developed by the HIT Policy Committee under section 3002. The HIT Standards Committee shall update such schedule annually. The Secretary shall publish such schedule in the Federal Register. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(4) PUBLIC INPUT- The HIT Standards Committee shall conduct open public meetings and develop a process to allow for public comment on the schedule described in paragraph (3) and recommendations described in this subsection. Under such process comments shall be submitted in a timely manner after the date of publication of a recommendation under this subsection. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(c) Membership and Operations- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) IN GENERAL- The National Coordinator shall provide leadership in the establishment and operations of the HIT Standards Committee. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) MEMBERSHIP- The membership of the HIT Standards Committee shall at least reflect providers, ancillary healthcare workers, consumers, purchasers, health plans, technology vendors, researchers, relevant Federal agencies, and individuals with technical expertise on health care quality, privacy and security, and on the electronic exchange and use of health information. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(3) CONSIDERATION- The National Coordinator shall ensure that the relevant recommendations and comments from the National Committee on Vital and Health Statistics are considered in the development of standards. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(4) ASSISTANCE- For the purposes of carrying out this section, the Secretary may provide or ensure that financial assistance is provided by the HIT Standards Committee to defray in whole or in part any membership fees or dues charged by such Committee to those consumer advocacy groups and not for profit entities that work in the public interest as a part of their mission. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(d) Application of FACA- The Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App.), other than section 14, shall apply to the HIT Standards Committee. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(e) Publication- The Secretary shall provide for publication in the Federal Register and the posting on the Internet website of the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology of all recommendations made by the HIT Standards Committee under this section. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘SEC. 3004. PROCESS FOR ADOPTION OF ENDORSED RECOMMENDATIONS; ADOPTION OF INITIAL SET OF STANDARDS, IMPLEMENTATION SPECIFICATIONS, AND CERTIFICATION CRITERIA.

‘(a) Process for Adoption of Endorsed Recommendations- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) REVIEW OF ENDORSED STANDARDS, IMPLEMENTATION SPECIFICATIONS, AND CERTIFICATION CRITERIA- Not later than 90 days after the date of receipt of standards, implementation specifications, or certification criteria endorsed under section 3001(c), the Secretary, in consultation with representatives of other relevant Federal agencies, shall jointly review such standards, implementation specifications, or certification criteria and shall determine whether or not to propose adoption of such standards, implementation specifications, or certification criteria. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) DETERMINATION TO ADOPT STANDARDS, IMPLEMENTATION SPECIFICATIONS, AND CERTIFICATION CRITERIA- If the Secretary determines-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(A) to propose adoption of any grouping of such standards, implementation specifications, or certification criteria, the Secretary shall, by regulation, determine whether or not to adopt such grouping of standards, implementation specifications, or certification criteria; or CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(B) not to propose adoption of any grouping of standards, implementation specifications, or certification criteria, the Secretary shall notify the National Coordinator and the HIT Standards Committee in writing of such determination and the reasons for not proposing the adoption of such recommendation. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(3) PUBLICATION- The Secretary shall provide for publication in the Federal Register of all determinations made by the Secretary under paragraph (1). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(b) Adoption of Initial Set of Standards, Implementation Specifications, and Certification Criteria- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) IN GENERAL- Not later than December 31, 2009, the Secretary shall, through the rulemaking process described in section 3003, adopt an initial set of standards, implementation specifications, and certification criteria for the areas required for consideration under section 3002(b)(2)(B). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) APPLICATION OF CURRENT STANDARDS, IMPLEMENTATION SPECIFICATIONS, AND CERTIFICATION CRITERIA- The standards, implementation specifications, and certification criteria adopted before the date of the enactment of this title through the process existing through the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology may be applied towards meeting the requirement of paragraph (1). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘SEC. 3005. APPLICATION AND USE OF ADOPTED STANDARDS AND IMPLEMENTATION SPECIFICATIONS BY FEDERAL AGENCIES.

‘For requirements relating to the application and use by Federal agencies of the standards and implementation specifications adopted under section 3004, see section 4111 of the HITECH Act. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘SEC. 3006. VOLUNTARY APPLICATION AND USE OF ADOPTED STANDARDS AND IMPLEMENTATION SPECIFICATIONS BY PRIVATE ENTITIES.

‘(a) In General- Except as provided under section 4112 of the HITECH Act, any standard or implementation specification adopted under section 3004 shall be voluntary with respect to private entities. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(b) Rule of Construction- Nothing in this subtitle shall be construed to require that a private entity that enters into a contract with the Federal Government apply or use the standards and implementation specifications adopted under section 3004 with respect to activities not related to the contract. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘SEC. 3007. FEDERAL HEALTH INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY.

‘(a) In General- The National Coordinator shall support the development, routine updating, and provision of qualified EHR technology (as defined in section 3000) consistent with subsections (b) and (c) unless the Secretary determines that the needs and demands of providers are being substantially and adequately met through the marketplace. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(b) Certification- In making such EHR technology publicly available, the National Coordinator shall ensure that the qualified EHR technology described in subsection (a) is certified under the program developed under section 3001(c)(3) to be in compliance with applicable standards adopted under section 3003(a). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(c) Authorization To Charge a Nominal Fee- The National Coordinator may impose a nominal fee for the adoption by a health care provider of the health information technology system developed or approved under subsection (a) and (b). Such fee shall take into account the financial circumstances of smaller providers, low income providers, and providers located in rural or other medically underserved areas. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(d) Rule of Construction- Nothing in this section shall be construed to require that a private or government entity adopt or use the technology provided under this section. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘SEC. 3008. TRANSITIONS.

‘(a) ONCHIT- To the extent consistent with section 3001, all functions, personnel, assets, liabilities, and administrative actions applicable to the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology appointed under Executive Order 13335 or the Office of such National Coordinator on the date before the date of the enactment of this title shall be transferred to the National Coordinator appointed under section 3001(a) and the Office of such National Coordinator as of the date of the enactment of this title. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(b) AHIC- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) To the extent consistent with sections 3002 and 3003, all functions, personnel, assets, and liabilities applicable to the AHIC Successor, Inc. doing business as the National eHealth Collaborative as of the day before the date of the enactment of this title shall be transferred to the HIT Policy Committee or the HIT Standards Committee, established under section 3002(a) or 3003(a), as appropriate, as of the date of the enactment of this title. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) In carrying out section 3003(b)(1)(A), until recommendations are made by the HIT Policy Committee, recommendations of the HIT Standards Committee shall be consistent with the most recent recommendations made by such AHIC Successor, Inc. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(c) Rules of Construction- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) ONCHIT- Nothing in section 3001 or subsection (a) shall be construed as requiring the creation of a new entity to the extent that the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology established pursuant to Executive Order 13335 is consistent with the provisions of section 3001. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) AHIC- Nothing in sections 3002 or 3003 or subsection (b) shall be construed as prohibiting the AHIC Successor, Inc. doing business as the National eHealth Collaborative from modifying its charter, duties, membership, and any other structure or function required to be consistent with section 3002 and 3003 in a manner that would permit the Secretary to choose to recognize such AHIC Successor, Inc. as the HIT Policy Committee or the HIT Standards Committee. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘SEC. 3009. RELATION TO HIPAA PRIVACY AND SECURITY LAW.

‘(a) In General- With respect to the relation of this title to HIPAA privacy and security law: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) This title may not be construed as having any effect on the authorities of the Secretary under HIPAA privacy and security law. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) The purposes of this title include ensuring that the health information technology standards and implementation specifications adopted under section 3004 take into account the requirements of HIPAA privacy and security law. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(b) Definition- For purposes of this section, the term ‘HIPAA privacy and security law’ means-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) the provisions of part C of title XI of the Social Security Act, section 264 of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, and subtitle D of title IV of the HITECH Act; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) regulations under such provisions. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘SEC. 3010. AUTHORIZATION FOR APPROPRIATIONS.

‘There is authorized to be appropriated to the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology to carry out this subtitle $250,000,000 for fiscal year 2009.’. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 4102. TECHNICAL AMENDMENT.

Section 1171(5) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1320d) is amended by striking ‘or C’ and inserting ‘C, or D’. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

PART II2--APPLICATION AND USE OF ADOPTED HEALTH INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY STANDARDS; REPORTS

SEC. 4111. COORDINATION OF FEDERAL ACTIVITIES WITH ADOPTED STANDARDS AND IMPLEMENTATION SPECIFICATIONS.

(a) Spending on Health Information Technology Systems- As each agency (as defined in the Executive Order issued on August 22, 2006, relating to promoting quality and efficient health care in Federal government administered or sponsored health care programs) implements, acquires, or upgrades health information technology systems used for the direct exchange of individually identifiable health information between agencies and with non-Federal entities, it shall utilize, where available, health information technology systems and products that meet standards and implementation specifications adopted under section 3004 of the Public Health Service Act, as added by section 4101. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Federal Information Collection Activities- With respect to a standard or implementation specification adopted under section 3004 of the Public Health Service Act, as added by section 4101, the President shall take measures to ensure that Federal activities involving the broad collection and submission of health information are consistent with such standard or implementation specification, respectively, within three years after the date of such adoption. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) Application of Definitions- The definitions contained in section 3000 of the Public Health Service Act, as added by section 4101, shall apply for purposes of this part. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 4112. APPLICATION TO PRIVATE ENTITIES.

Each agency (as defined in such Executive Order issued on August 22, 2006, relating to promoting quality and efficient health care in Federal government administered or sponsored health care programs) shall require in contracts or agreements with health care providers, health plans, or health insurance issuers that as each provider, plan, or issuer implements, acquires, or upgrades health information technology systems, it shall utilize, where available, health information technology systems and products that meet standards and implementation specifications adopted under section 3004 of the Public Health Service Act, as added by section 4101. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 4113. STUDY AND REPORTS.

(a) Report on Adoption of Nationwide System- Not later than 2 years after the date of the enactment of this Act and annually thereafter, the Secretary of Health and Human Services shall submit to the appropriate committees of jurisdiction of the House of Representatives and the Senate a report that-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) describes the specific actions that have been taken by the Federal Government and private entities to facilitate the adoption of a nationwide system for the electronic use and exchange of health information; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) describes barriers to the adoption of such a nationwide system; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) contains recommendations to achieve full implementation of such a nationwide system. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Reimbursement Incentive Study and Report- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) STUDY- The Secretary of Health and Human Services shall carry out, or contract with a private entity to carry out, a study that examines methods to create efficient reimbursement incentives for improving health care quality in Federally qualified health centers, rural health clinics, and free clinics. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) REPORT- Not later than 2 years after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Health and Human Services shall submit to the appropriate committees of jurisdiction of the House of Representatives and the Senate a report on the study carried out under paragraph (1). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) Aging Services Technology Study and Report- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) IN GENERAL- The Secretary of Health and Human Services shall carry out, or contract with a private entity to carry out, a study of matters relating to the potential use of new aging services technology to assist seniors, individuals with disabilities, and their caregivers throughout the aging process. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) MATTERS TO BE STUDIED- The study under paragraph (1) shall include-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) an evaluation of-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(i) methods for identifying current, emerging, and future health technology that can be used to meet the needs of seniors and individuals with disabilities and their caregivers across all aging services settings, as specified by the Secretary; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(ii) methods for fostering scientific innovation with respect to aging services technology within the business and academic communities; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(iii) developments in aging services technology in other countries that may be applied in the United States; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) identification of-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(i) barriers to innovation in aging services technology and devising strategies for removing such barriers; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(ii) barriers to the adoption of aging services technology by health care providers and consumers and devising strategies to removing such barriers. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) REPORT- Not later than 24 months after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the appropriate committees of jurisdiction of the House of Representatives and of the Senate a report on the study carried out under paragraph (1). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) DEFINITIONS- For purposes of this subsection: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) AGING SERVICES TECHNOLOGY- The term ‘aging services technology’ means health technology that meets the health care needs of seniors, individuals with disabilities, and the caregivers of such seniors and individuals. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) SENIOR- The term ‘senior’ has such meaning as specified by the Secretary. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

Subtitle B--Testing of Health Information Technology CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 4201. NATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR STANDARDS AND TECHNOLOGY TESTING.

(a) Pilot Testing of Standards and Implementation Specifications- In coordination with the HIT Standards Committee established under section 3003 of the Public Health Service Act, as added by section 4101, with respect to the development of standards and implementation specifications under such section, the Director of the National Institute for Standards and Technology shall test such standards and implementation specifications, as appropriate, in order to assure the efficient implementation and use of such standards and implementation specifications. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Voluntary Testing Program- In coordination with the HIT Standards Committee established under section 3003 of the Public Health Service Act, as added by section 4101, with respect to the development of standards and implementation specifications under such section, the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology shall support the establishment of a conformance testing infrastructure, including the development of technical test beds. The development of this conformance testing infrastructure may include a program to accredit independent, non-Federal laboratories to perform testing. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 4202. RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS.

(a) Health Care Information Enterprise Integration Research Centers- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) IN GENERAL- The Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, in consultation with the Director of the National Science Foundation and other appropriate Federal agencies, shall establish a program of assistance to institutions of higher education (or consortia thereof which may include nonprofit entities and Federal Government laboratories) to establish multidisciplinary Centers for Health Care Information Enterprise Integration. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) REVIEW; COMPETITION- Grants shall be awarded under this subsection on a merit-reviewed, competitive basis. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) PURPOSE- The purposes of the Centers described in paragraph (1) shall be-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) to generate innovative approaches to health care information enterprise integration by conducting cutting-edge, multidisciplinary research on the systems challenges to health care delivery; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) the development and use of health information technologies and other complementary fields. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) RESEARCH AREAS- Research areas may include-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) interfaces between human information and communications technology systems; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) voice-recognition systems; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) software that improves interoperability and connectivity among health information systems; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(D) software dependability in systems critical to health care delivery; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(E) measurement of the impact of information technologies on the quality and productivity of health care; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(F) health information enterprise management; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(G) health information technology security and integrity; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(H) relevant health information technology to reduce medical errors. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(5) APPLICATIONS- An institution of higher education (or a consortium thereof) seeking funding under this subsection shall submit an application to the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Director may require. The application shall include, at a minimum, a description of-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) the research projects that will be undertaken by the Center established pursuant to assistance under paragraph (1) and the respective contributions of the participating entities; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) how the Center will promote active collaboration among scientists and engineers from different disciplines, such as information technology, biologic sciences, management, social sciences, and other appropriate disciplines; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) technology transfer activities to demonstrate and diffuse the research results, technologies, and knowledge; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(D) how the Center will contribute to the education and training of researchers and other professionals in fields relevant to health information enterprise integration. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) National Information Technology Research and Development Program- The National High-Performance Computing Program established by section 101 of the High-Performance Computing Act of 1991 (15 U.S.C. 5511) shall coordinate Federal research and development programs related to the development and deployment of health information technology, including activities related to-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) computer infrastructure; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) data security; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) development of large-scale, distributed, reliable computing systems; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) wired, wireless, and hybrid high-speed networking; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(5) development of software and software-intensive systems; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(6) human-computer interaction and information management technologies; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(7) the social and economic implications of information technology. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

Subtitle C--Incentives for the Use of Health Information Technology CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

PART I--GRANTS AND LOANS FUNDING

SEC. 4301. GRANT, LOAN, AND DEMONSTRATION PROGRAMS.

Title XXX of the Public Health Service Act, as added by section 4101, is amended by adding at the end the following new subtitle: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘Subtitle B--Incentives for the Use of Health Information Technology CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘SEC. 3011. IMMEDIATE FUNDING TO STRENGTHEN THE HEALTH INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY INFRASTRUCTURE.

‘(a) In General- The Secretary shall, using amounts appropriated under section 3018, invest in the infrastructure necessary to allow for and promote the electronic exchange and use of health information for each individual in the United States consistent with the goals outlined in the strategic plan developed by the National Coordinator (and as available) under section 3001. To the greatest extent practicable, the Secretary shall ensure that any funds so appropriated shall be used for the acquisition of health information technology that meets standards and certification criteria adopted before the date of the enactment of this title until such date as the standards are adopted under section 3004. The Secretary shall invest funds through the different agencies with expertise in such goals, such as the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology, the Health Resources and Services Administration, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, the Centers of Medicare & Medicaid Services, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Indian Health Service to support the following: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) Health information technology architecture that will support the nationwide electronic exchange and use of health information in a secure, private, and accurate manner, including connecting health information exchanges, and which may include updating and implementing the infrastructure necessary within different agencies of the Department of Health and Human Services to support the electronic use and exchange of health information. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) Development and adoption of appropriate certified electronic health records for categories of providers, as defined in section 3000, not eligible for support under title XVIII or XIX of the Social Security Act for the adoption of such records. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(3) Training on and dissemination of information on best practices to integrate health information technology, including electronic health records, into a provider’s delivery of care, consistent with best practices learned from the Health Information Technology Research Center developed under section 3012(b), including community health centers receiving assistance under section 330, covered entities under section 340B, and providers participating in one or more of the programs under titles XVIII, XIX, and XXI of the Social Security Act (relating to Medicare, Medicaid, and the State Children’s Health Insurance Program). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(4) Infrastructure and tools for the promotion of telemedicine, including coordination among Federal agencies in the promotion of telemedicine. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(5) Promotion of the interoperability of clinical data repositories or registries. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(6) Promotion of technologies and best practices that enhance the protection of health information by all holders of individually identifiable health information. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(7) Improvement and expansion of the use of health information technology by public health departments. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(8) Provision of $300 million to support regional or sub-national efforts towards health information exchange. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(b) Coordination- The Secretary shall ensure funds under this section are used in a coordinated manner with other health information promotion activities. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(c) Additional Use of Funds- In addition to using funds as provided in subsection (a), the Secretary may use amounts appropriated under section 3018 to carry out health information technology activities that are provided for under laws in effect on the date of the enactment of this title. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘SEC. 3012. HEALTH INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY IMPLEMENTATION ASSISTANCE.

‘(a) Health Information Technology Extension Program- To assist health care providers to adopt, implement, and effectively use certified EHR technology that allows for the electronic exchange and use of health information, the Secretary, acting through the Office of the National Coordinator, shall establish a health information technology extension program to provide health information technology assistance services to be carried out through the Department of Health and Human Services. The National Coordinator shall consult with other Federal agencies with demonstrated experience and expertise in information technology services, such as the National Institute of Standards and Technology, in developing and implementing this program. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(b) Health Information Technology Research Center- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) IN GENERAL- The Secretary shall create a Health Information Technology Research Center (in this section referred to as the ‘Center’) to provide technical assistance and develop or recognize best practices to support and accelerate efforts to adopt, implement, and effectively utilize health information technology that allows for the electronic exchange and use of information in compliance with standards, implementation specifications, and certification criteria adopted under section 3004. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) INPUT- The Center shall incorporate input from-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(A) other Federal agencies with demonstrated experience and expertise in information technology services such as the National Institute of Standards and Technology; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(B) users of health information technology, such as providers and their support and clerical staff and others involved in the care and care coordination of patients, from the health care and health information technology industry; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(C) others as appropriate. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(3) PURPOSES- The purposes of the Center are to-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(A) provide a forum for the exchange of knowledge and experience; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(B) accelerate the transfer of lessons learned from existing public and private sector initiatives, including those currently receiving Federal financial support; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(C) assemble, analyze, and widely disseminate evidence and experience related to the adoption, implementation, and effective use of health information technology that allows for the electronic exchange and use of information including through the regional centers described in subsection (c); CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(D) provide technical assistance for the establishment and evaluation of regional and local health information networks to facilitate the electronic exchange of information across health care settings and improve the quality of health care; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(E) provide technical assistance for the development and dissemination of solutions to barriers to the exchange of electronic health information; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(F) learn about effective strategies to adopt and utilize health information technology in medically underserved communities. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(c) Health Information Technology Regional Extension Centers- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) IN GENERAL- The Secretary shall provide assistance for the creation and support of regional centers (in this subsection referred to as ‘regional centers’) to provide technical assistance and disseminate best practices and other information learned from the Center to support and accelerate efforts to adopt, implement, and effectively utilize health information technology that allows for the electronic exchange and use of information in compliance with standards, implementation specifications, and certification criteria adopted under section 3004. Activities conducted under this subsection shall be consistent with the strategic plan developed by the National Coordinator, (and, as available) under section 3001. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) AFFILIATION- Regional centers shall be affiliated with any United States-based nonprofit institution or organization, or group thereof, that applies and is awarded financial assistance under this section. Individual awards shall be decided on the basis of merit. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(3) OBJECTIVE- The objective of the regional centers is to enhance and promote the adoption of health information technology through-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(A) assistance with the implementation, effective use, upgrading, and ongoing maintenance of health information technology, including electronic health records, to healthcare providers nationwide; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(B) broad participation of individuals from industry, universities, and State governments; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(C) active dissemination of best practices and research on the implementation, effective use, upgrading, and ongoing maintenance of health information technology, including electronic health records, to health care providers in order to improve the quality of healthcare and protect the privacy and security of health information; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(D) participation, to the extent practicable, in health information exchanges;‘(E) and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(E) utilization, when appropriate, of the expertise and capability that exists in Federal agencies other than the Department; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(F) integration of health information technology, including electronic health records, into the initial and ongoing training of health professionals and others in the healthcare industry that would be instrumental to improving the quality of healthcare through the smooth and accurate electronic use and exchange of health information. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(4) REGIONAL ASSISTANCE- Each regional center shall aim to provide assistance and education to all providers in a region, but shall prioritize any direct assistance first to the following: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(A) Public or not-for-profit hospitals or critical access hospitals. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(B) Federally qualified health centers (as defined in section 1861(aa)(4) of the Social Security Act). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(C) Entities that are located in rural and other areas that serve uninsured, underinsured, and medically underserved individuals (regardless of whether such area is urban or rural). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(D) Individual or small group practices (or a consortium thereof) that are primarily focused on primary care. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(5) FINANCIAL SUPPORT- The Secretary may provide financial support to any regional center created under this subsection for a period not to exceed four years. The Secretary may not provide more than 50 percent of the capital and annual operating and maintenance funds required to create and maintain such a center, except in an instance of national economic conditions which would render this cost-share requirement detrimental to the program and upon notification to Congress as to the justification to waive the cost-share requirement. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(6) NOTICE OF PROGRAM DESCRIPTION AND AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS- The Secretary shall publish in the Federal Register, not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this title, a draft description of the program for establishing regional centers under this subsection. Such description shall include the following: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(A) A detailed explanation of the program and the programs goals. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(B) Procedures to be followed by the applicants. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(C) Criteria for determining qualified applicants. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(D) Maximum support levels expected to be available to centers under the program. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(7) APPLICATION REVIEW- The Secretary shall subject each application under this subsection to merit review. In making a decision whether to approve such application and provide financial support, the Secretary shall consider at a minimum the merits of the application, including those portions of the application regarding-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(A) the ability of the applicant to provide assistance under this subsection and utilization of health information technology appropriate to the needs of particular categories of health care providers; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(B) the types of service to be provided to health care providers; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(C) geographical diversity and extent of service area; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(D) the percentage of funding and amount of in-kind commitment from other sources. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(8) BIENNIAL EVALUATION- Each regional center which receives financial assistance under this subsection shall be evaluated biennially by an evaluation panel appointed by the Secretary. Each evaluation panel shall be composed of private experts, none of whom shall be connected with the center involved, and of Federal officials. Each evaluation panel shall measure the involved center’s performance against the objective specified in paragraph (3). The Secretary shall not continue to provide funding to a regional center unless its evaluation is overall positive. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(9) CONTINUING SUPPORT- After the second year of assistance under this subsection, a regional center may receive additional support under this subsection if it has received positive evaluations and a finding by the Secretary that continuation of Federal funding to the center was in the best interest of provision of health information technology extension services. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘SEC. 3013. STATE GRANTS TO PROMOTE HEALTH INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY.

‘(a) In General- The Secretary, acting through the National Coordinator, shall establish a program in accordance with this section to facilitate and expand the electronic movement and use of health information among organizations according to nationally recognized standards. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(b) Planning Grants- The Secretary may award a grant to a State or qualified State-designated entity (as described in subsection (f)) that submits an application to the Secretary at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may specify, for the purpose of planning activities described in subsection (d). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(c) Implementation Grants- The Secretary may award a grant to a State or qualified State designated entity that-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) has submitted, and the Secretary has approved, a plan described in subsection (e) (regardless of whether such plan was prepared using amounts awarded under subsection (b)); and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) submits an application at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may specify. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(d) Use of Funds- Amounts received under a grant under subsection (c) shall be used to conduct activities to facilitate and expand the electronic movement and use of health information among organizations according to nationally recognized standards through activities that include-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) enhancing broad and varied participation in the authorized and secure nationwide electronic use and exchange of health information; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) identifying State or local resources available towards a nationwide effort to promote health information technology; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(3) complementing other Federal grants, programs, and efforts towards the promotion of health information technology; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(4) providing technical assistance for the development and dissemination of solutions to barriers to the exchange of electronic health information; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(5) promoting effective strategies to adopt and utilize health information technology in medically underserved communities; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(6) assisting patients in utilizing health information technology; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(7) encouraging clinicians to work with Health Information Technology Regional Extension Centers as described in section 3012, to the extent they are available and valuable; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(8) supporting public health agencies’ authorized use of and access to electronic health information; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(9) promoting the use of electronic health records for quality improvement including through quality measures reporting; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(10) such other activities as the Secretary may specify. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(e) Plan- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) IN GENERAL- A plan described in this subsection is a plan that describes the activities to be carried out by a State or by the qualified State-designated entity within such State to facilitate and expand the electronic movement and use of health information among organizations according to nationally recognized standards and implementation specifications. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) REQUIRED ELEMENTS- A plan described in paragraph (1) shall-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(A) be pursued in the public interest; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(B) be consistent with the strategic plan developed by the National Coordinator, (and, as available) under section 3001; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(C) include a description of the ways the State or qualified State-designated entity will carry out the activities described in subsection (b); and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(D) contain such elements as the Secretary may require. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(f) Qualified State-Designated Entity- For purposes of this section, to be a qualified State-designated entity, with respect to a State, an entity shall-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) be designated by the State as eligible to receive awards under this section; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) be a not-for-profit entity with broad stakeholder representation on its governing board; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(3) demonstrate that one of its principal goals is to use information technology to improve health care quality and efficiency through the authorized and secure electronic exchange and use of health information; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(4) adopt nondiscrimination and conflict of interest policies that demonstrate a commitment to open, fair, and nondiscriminatory participation by stakeholders; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(5) conform to such other requirements as the Secretary may establish. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(g) Required Consultation- In carrying out activities described in subsections (b) and (c), a State or qualified State-designated entity shall consult with and consider the recommendations of-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) health care providers (including providers that provide services to low income and underserved populations); CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) health plans; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(3) patient or consumer organizations that represent the population to be served; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(4) health information technology vendors; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(5) health care purchasers and employers; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(6) public health agencies; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(7) health professions schools, universities and colleges; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(8) clinical researchers; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(9) other users of health information technology such as the support and clerical staff of providers and others involved in the care and care coordination of patients; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(10) such other entities, as may be determined appropriate by the Secretary. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(h) Continuous Improvement- The Secretary shall annually evaluate the activities conducted under this section and shall, in awarding grants under this section, implement the lessons learned from such evaluation in a manner so that awards made subsequent to each such evaluation are made in a manner that, in the determination of the Secretary, will lead towards the greatest improvement in quality of care, decrease in costs, and the most effective authorized and secure electronic exchange of health information. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(i) Required Match- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) IN GENERAL- For a fiscal year (beginning with fiscal year 2011), the Secretary may not make a grant under this section to a State unless the State agrees to make available non-Federal contributions (which may include in-kind contributions) toward the costs of a grant awarded under subsection (c) in an amount equal to-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(A) for fiscal year 2011, not less than $1 for each $10 of Federal funds provided under the grant; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(B) for fiscal year 2012, not less than $1 for each $7 of Federal funds provided under the grant; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(C) for fiscal year 2013 and each subsequent fiscal year, not less than $1 for each $3 of Federal funds provided under the grant. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) AUTHORITY TO REQUIRE STATE MATCH FOR FISCAL YEARS BEFORE FISCAL YEAR 2011- For any fiscal year during the grant program under this section before fiscal year 2011, the Secretary may determine the extent to which there shall be required a non-Federal contribution from a State receiving a grant under this section. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘SEC. 3014. COMPETITIVE GRANTS TO STATES AND INDIAN TRIBES FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF LOAN PROGRAMS TO FACILITATE THE WIDESPREAD ADOPTION OF CERTIFIED EHR TECHNOLOGY.

‘(a) In General- The National Coordinator may award competitive grants to eligible entities for the establishment of programs for loans to health care providers to conduct the activities described in subsection (e). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(b) Eligible Entity Defined- For purposes of this subsection, the term ‘eligible entity’ means a State or Indian tribe (as defined in the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act) that-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) submits to the National Coordinator an application at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the National Coordinator may require; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) submits to the National Coordinator a strategic plan in accordance with subsection (d) and provides to the National Coordinator assurances that the entity will update such plan annually in accordance with such subsection; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(3) provides assurances to the National Coordinator that the entity will establish a Loan Fund in accordance with subsection (c); CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(4) provides assurances to the National Coordinator that the entity will not provide a loan from the Loan Fund to a health care provider unless the provider agrees to-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(A) submit reports on quality measures adopted by the Federal Government (by not later than 90 days after the date on which such measures are adopted), to-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(i) the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (or his or her designee), in the case of an entity participating in the Medicare program under title XVIII of the Social Security Act or the Medicaid program under title XIX of such Act; or CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(ii) the Secretary in the case of other entities; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(B) demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Secretary (through criteria established by the Secretary) that any certified EHR technology purchased, improved, or otherwise financially supported under a loan under this section is used to exchange health information in a manner that, in accordance with law and standards (as adopted under section 3004) applicable to the exchange of information, improves the quality of health care, such as promoting care coordination; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(C) comply with such other requirements as the entity or the Secretary may require; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(D) include a plan on how health care providers involved intend to maintain and support the certified EHR technology over time; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(E) include a plan on how the health care providers involved intend to maintain and support the certified EHR technology that would be purchased with such loan, including the type of resources expected to be involved and any such other information as the State or Indian Tribe, respectively, may require; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(5) agrees to provide matching funds in accordance with subsection (h). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(c) Establishment of Fund- For purposes of subsection (b)(3), an eligible entity shall establish a certified EHR technology loan fund (referred to in this subsection as a ‘Loan Fund’) and comply with the other requirements contained in this section. A grant to an eligible entity under this section shall be deposited in the Loan Fund established by the eligible entity. No funds authorized by other provisions of this title to be used for other purposes specified in this title shall be deposited in any Loan Fund. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(d) Strategic Plan- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) IN GENERAL- For purposes of subsection (b)(2), a strategic plan of an eligible entity under this subsection shall identify the intended uses of amounts available to the Loan Fund of such entity. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) CONTENTS- A strategic plan under paragraph (1), with respect to a Loan Fund of an eligible entity, shall include for a year the following: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(A) A list of the projects to be assisted through the Loan Fund during such year. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(B) A description of the criteria and methods established for the distribution of funds from the Loan Fund during the year. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(C) A description of the financial status of the Loan Fund as of the date of submission of the plan. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(D) The short-term and long-term goals of the Loan Fund. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(e) Use of Funds- Amounts deposited in a Loan Fund, including loan repayments and interest earned on such amounts, shall be used only for awarding loans or loan guarantees, making reimbursements described in subsection (g)(4)(A), or as a source of reserve and security for leveraged loans, the proceeds of which are deposited in the Loan Fund established under subsection (c). Loans under this section may be used by a health care provider to-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) facilitate the purchase of certified EHR technology; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) enhance the utilization of certified EHR technology; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(3) train personnel in the use of such technology; or CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(4) improve the secure electronic exchange of health information. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(f) Types of Assistance- Except as otherwise limited by applicable State law, amounts deposited into a Loan Fund under this section may only be used for the following: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) To award loans that comply with the following: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(A) The interest rate for each loan shall not exceed the market interest rate. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(B) The principal and interest payments on each loan shall commence not later than 1 year after the date the loan was awarded, and each loan shall be fully amortized not later than 10 years after the date of the loan. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(C) The Loan Fund shall be credited with all payments of principal and interest on each loan awarded from the Loan Fund. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) To guarantee, or purchase insurance for, a local obligation (all of the proceeds of which finance a project eligible for assistance under this subsection) if the guarantee or purchase would improve credit market access or reduce the interest rate applicable to the obligation involved. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(3) As a source of revenue or security for the payment of principal and interest on revenue or general obligation bonds issued by the eligible entity if the proceeds of the sale of the bonds will be deposited into the Loan Fund. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(4) To earn interest on the amounts deposited into the Loan Fund. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(5) To make reimbursements described in subsection (g)(4)(A). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(g) Administration of Loan Funds- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) COMBINED FINANCIAL ADMINISTRATION- An eligible entity may (as a convenience and to avoid unnecessary administrative costs) combine, in accordance with applicable State law, the financial administration of a Loan Fund established under this subsection with the financial administration of any other revolving fund established by the entity if otherwise not prohibited by the law under which the Loan Fund was established. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) COST OF ADMINISTERING FUND- Each eligible entity may annually use not to exceed 4 percent of the funds provided to the entity under a grant under this section to pay the reasonable costs of the administration of the programs under this section, including the recovery of reasonable costs expended to establish a Loan Fund which are incurred after the date of the enactment of this title. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(3) GUIDANCE AND REGULATIONS- The National Coordinator shall publish guidance and promulgate regulations as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this section, including-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(A) provisions to ensure that each eligible entity commits and expends funds allotted to the entity under this section as efficiently as possible in accordance with this title and applicable State laws; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(B) guidance to prevent waste, fraud, and abuse. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(4) PRIVATE SECTOR CONTRIBUTIONS- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(A) IN GENERAL- A Loan Fund established under this section may accept contributions from private sector entities, except that such entities may not specify the recipient or recipients of any loan issued under this subsection. An eligible entity may agree to reimburse a private sector entity for any contribution made under this subparagraph, except that the amount of such reimbursement may not be greater than the principal amount of the contribution made. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(B) AVAILABILITY OF INFORMATION- An eligible entity shall make publicly available the identity of, and amount contributed by, any private sector entity under subparagraph (A) and may issue letters of commendation or make other awards (that have no financial value) to any such entity. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(h) Matching Requirements- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) IN GENERAL- The National Coordinator may not make a grant under subsection (a) to an eligible entity unless the entity agrees to make available (directly or through donations from public or private entities) non-Federal contributions in cash to the costs of carrying out the activities for which the grant is awarded in an amount equal to not less than $1 for each $5 of Federal funds provided under the grant. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) DETERMINATION OF AMOUNT OF NON-FEDERAL CONTRIBUTION- In determining the amount of non-Federal contributions that an eligible entity has provided pursuant to subparagraph (A), the National Coordinator may not include any amounts provided to the entity by the Federal Government. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(i) Effective Date- The Secretary may not make an award under this section prior to January 1, 2010. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘SEC. 3015. DEMONSTRATION PROGRAM TO INTEGRATE INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY INTO CLINICAL EDUCATION.

‘(a) In General- The Secretary may award grants under this section to carry out demonstration projects to develop academic curricula integrating certified EHR technology in the clinical education of health professionals. Such awards shall be made on a competitive basis and pursuant to peer review. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(b) Eligibility- To be eligible to receive a grant under subsection (a), an entity shall-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) submit to the Secretary an application at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may require; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) submit to the Secretary a strategic plan for integrating certified EHR technology in the clinical education of health professionals to reduce medical errors and enhance health care quality; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(3) be-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(A) a school of medicine, osteopathic medicine, dentistry, or pharmacy, a graduate program in behavioral or mental health, or any other graduate health professions school; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(B) a graduate school of nursing or physician assistant studies; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(C) a consortium of two or more schools described in subparagraph (A) or (B); or CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(D) an institution with a graduate medical education program in medicine, osteopathic medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, nursing, or physician assistance studies; CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(4) provide for the collection of data regarding the effectiveness of the demonstration project to be funded under the grant in improving the safety of patients, the efficiency of health care delivery, and in increasing the likelihood that graduates of the grantee will adopt and incorporate certified EHR technology, in the delivery of health care services; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(5) provide matching funds in accordance with subsection (d). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(c) Use of Funds- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) IN GENERAL- With respect to a grant under subsection (a), an eligible entity shall-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(A) use grant funds in collaboration with 2 or more disciplines; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(B) use grant funds to integrate certified EHR technology into community-based clinical education. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) LIMITATION- An eligible entity shall not use amounts received under a grant under subsection (a) to purchase hardware, software, or services. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(d) Financial Support- The Secretary may not provide more than 50 percent of the costs of any activity for which assistance is provided under subsection (a), except in an instance of national economic conditions which would render the cost-share requirement under this subsection detrimental to the program and upon notification to Congress as to the justification to waive the cost-share requirement. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(e) Evaluation- The Secretary shall take such action as may be necessary to evaluate the projects funded under this section and publish, make available, and disseminate the results of such evaluations on as wide a basis as is practicable. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(f) Reports- Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this title, and annually thereafter, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions and the Committee on Finance of the Senate, and the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives a report that-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) describes the specific projects established under this section; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) contains recommendations for Congress based on the evaluation conducted under subsection (e). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘SEC. 3016. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY PROFESSIONALS ON HEALTH CARE.

‘(a) In General- The Secretary, in consultation with the Director of the National Science Foundation, shall provide assistance to institutions of higher education (or consortia thereof) to establish or expand medical health informatics education programs, including certification, undergraduate, and masters degree programs, for both health care and information technology students to ensure the rapid and effective utilization and development of health information technologies (in the United States health care infrastructure). CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(b) Activities- Activities for which assistance may be provided under subsection (a) may include the following: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) Developing and revising curricula in medical health informatics and related disciplines. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) Recruiting and retaining students to the program involved. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(3) Acquiring equipment necessary for student instruction in these programs, including the installation of testbed networks for student use. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(4) Establishing or enhancing bridge programs in the health informatics fields between community colleges and universities. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(c) Priority- In providing assistance under subsection (a), the Secretary shall give preference to the following: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) Existing education and training programs. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) Programs designed to be completed in less than six months. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(d) Financial Support- The Secretary may not provide more than 50 percent of the costs of any activity for which assistance is provided under subsection (a), except in an instance of national economic conditions which would render the cost-share requirement under this subsection detrimental to the program and upon notification to Congress as to the justification to waive the cost-share requirement. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘SEC. 3017. GENERAL GRANT AND LOAN PROVISIONS.

‘(a) Reports- The Secretary may require that an entity receiving assistance under this subtitle shall submit to the Secretary, not later than the date that is 1 year after the date of receipt of such assistance, a report that includes-- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) an analysis of the effectiveness of the activities for which the entity receives such assistance, as compared to the goals for such activities; and CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) an analysis of the impact of the project on health care quality and safety. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(b) Requirement To Improve Quality of Care and Decrease in Costs- The National Coordinator shall annually evaluate the activities conducted under this subtitle and shall, in awarding grants, implement the lessons learned from such evaluation in a manner so that awards made subsequent to each such evaluation are made in a manner that, in the determination of the National Coordinator, will result in the greatest improvement in the quality and efficiency of health care. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

‘SEC. 3018. AUTHORIZATION FOR APPROPRIATIONS.

‘For the purposes of carrying out this subtitle, there is authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary for each of the fiscal years 2009 through 2013. Amounts so appropriated shall remain available until expended.’. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

PART II--MEDICARE PROGRAM

SEC. 4311. INCENTIVES FOR ELIGIBLE PROFESSIONALS.

(a) Incentive Payments- Section 1848 of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395w-4) is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(o) Incentives for Adoption and Meaningful Use of Certified EHR Technology- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(1) INCENTIVE PAYMENTS- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(A) IN GENERAL- Subject to the succeeding subparagraphs of this paragraph, with respect to covered professional services furnished by an eligible professional during a payment year (as defined in subparagraph (E)), if the eligible professional is a meaningful EHR user (as determined under paragraph (2)) for the reporting period with respect to such year, in addition to the amount otherwise paid under this part, there also shall be paid to the eligible professional (or to an employer or facility in the cases described in clause (A) of section 1842(b)(6)), from the Federal Supplementary Medical Insurance Trust Fund established under section 1841 an amount equal to 75 percent of the Secretary’s estimate (based on claims submitted not later than 2 months after the end of the payment year) of the allowed charges under this part for all such covered professional services furnished by the eligible professional during such year. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(B) LIMITATIONS ON AMOUNTS OF INCENTIVE PAYMENTS- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(i) IN GENERAL- In no case shall the amount of the incentive payment provided under this paragraph for an eligible professional for a payment year exceed the applicable amount specified under this subparagraph with respect to such eligible professional and such year. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(ii) AMOUNT- Subject to clause (iii), the applicable amount specified in this subparagraph for an eligible professional is as follows: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(I) For the first payment year for such professional, $15,000. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(II) For the second payment year for such professional, $12,000. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(III) For the third payment year for such professional, $8,000. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(IV) For the fourth payment year for such professional, $4,000. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(V) For the fifth payment year for such professional, $2,000. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(VI) For any succeeding payment year for such professional, $0. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(iii) PHASE DOWN FOR ELIGIBLE PROFESSIONALS FIRST ADOPTING EHR AFTER 2013- If the first payment year for an eligible professional is after 2013, then the amount specified in this subparagraph for a payment year for such professional is the same as the amount specified in clause (ii) for such payment year for an eligible professional whose first payment year is 2013. If the first payment year for an eligible professional is after 2015 then the applicable amount specified in this subparagraph for such professional for such year and any subsequent year shall be $0. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(C) NON-APPLICATION TO HOSPITAL-BASED ELIGIBLE PROFESSIONALS- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(i) IN GENERAL- No incentive payment may be made under this paragraph in the case of a hospital-based eligible professional. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(ii) HOSPITAL-BASED ELIGIBLE PROFESSIONAL- For purposes of clause (i), the term ‘hospital-based eligible professional’ means, with respect to covered professional services furnished by an eligible professional during the reporting period for a payment year, an eligible professional, such as a pathologist, anesthesiologist, or emergency physician, who furnishes substantially all of such services in a hospital setting (whether inpatient or outpatient) and through the use of the facilities and equipment, including computer equipment, of the hospital. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(D) PAYMENT- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(i) FORM OF PAYMENT- The payment under this paragraph may be in the form of a single consolidated payment or in the form of such periodic installments as the Secretary may specify. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(ii) COORDINATION OF APPLICATION OF LIMITATION FOR PROFESSIONALS IN DIFFERENT PRACTICES- In the case of an eligible professional furnishing covered professional services in more than one practice (as specified by the Secretary), the Secretary shall establish rules to coordinate the incentive payments, including the application of the limitation on amounts of such incentive payments under this paragraph, among such practices. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(iii) COORDINATION WITH MEDICAID- The Secretary shall seek, to the maximum extent practicable, to avoid duplicative requirements from Federal and State Governments to demonstrate meaningful use of certified EHR technology under this title and title XIX. In doing so, the Secretary may deem satisfaction of State requirements for such meaningful use for a payment year under title XIX to be sufficient to qualify as meaningful use under this subsection and subsection (a)(7) and vice versa. The Secretary may also adjust the reporting periods under such title and such subsections in order to carry out this clause. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(E) PAYMENT YEAR DEFINED- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(i) IN GENERAL- For purposes of this subsection, the term ‘payment year’ means a year beginning with 2011. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(ii) FIRST, SECOND, ETC. PAYMENT YEAR- The term ‘first payment year’ means, with respect to covered professional services furnished by an eligible professional, the first year for which an incentive payment is made for such services under this subsection. The terms ‘second payment year’, ‘third payment year’, ‘fourth payment year’, and ‘fifth payment year’ mean, with respect to covered professional services furnished by such eligible professional, each successive year immediately following the first payment year for such professional. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(2) MEANINGFUL EHR USER- CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(A) IN GENERAL- For purposes of paragraph (1), an eligible professional shall be treated as a meaningful EHR user for a reporting period for a payment year (or, for purposes of subsection (a)(7), for a reporting period under such subsection for a year) if each of the following requirements is met: CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(i) MEANINGFUL USE OF CERTIFIED EHR TECHNOLOGY- The eligible professional demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Secretary, in accordance with subparagraph (C)(i), that during such period the professional is using certified EHR technology in a meaningful manner, which shall include the use of electronic prescribing as determined to be appropriate by the Secretary. CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(ii) INFORMATION EXCHANGE- The eligible professional demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Secretary, in accordance with subparagraph (C)(i), that during such period such certified EHR technology is connected in a manner that provides, in accordance with law and standards applicable to the exchange of information, for the electronic exchange of health information to improve the quality of health care, such as promoting care coordination. Comments