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HR 402 IHCommentsClose CommentsPermalink

112th CONGRESSCommentsClose CommentsPermalink

1st SessionCommentsClose CommentsPermalink

H. R. 402CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

To facilitate efficient investments and financing of infrastructure projects and new job creation through the establishment of a National Infrastructure Development Bank, and for other purposes.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVESCommentsClose CommentsPermalink

January 24, 2011CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

Ms. DELAURO (for herself, Mr. ELLISON, Mr. ISRAEL, Mr. WEINER, Mr. TIERNEY, Mr. VAN HOLLEN, Ms. HIRONO, Ms. BORDALLO, Ms. LEE of California, Mr. LARSON of Connecticut, Mr. COURTNEY, Ms. BERKLEY, Mr. HIMES, Mr. BOSWELL, Mr. CONYERS, Mr. MURPHY of Connecticut, Mr. YARMUTH, Mr. LUJAN, Ms. SUTTON, Mr. BRALEY of Iowa, Mr. LYNCH, Ms. RICHARDSON, Mr. GONZALEZ, and Mr. BLUMENAUER) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committees on Transportation and Infrastructure and Financial Services, 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 BILLCommentsClose CommentsPermalink

To facilitate efficient investments and financing of infrastructure projects and new job creation through the establishment of a National Infrastructure Development Bank, and for other purposes.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 ‘National Infrastructure Development Bank Act of 2011’.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 2. FINDINGS.

Congress finds the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) According to the American Society of Civil Engineers, the current condition of the infrastructure in the United States earns a grade point average of D, and an estimated $2,200,000,000,000 investment is needed over the next 5 years to meet adequate conditions.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) According to the National Surface Transportation Policy and Revenue Study Commission, $225,000,000,000 is needed annually from all sources for the next 50 years to upgrade our surface transportation system to a state of good repair and create a more advanced system.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) The Environmental Protection Agency projects that--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) $334,000,000,000 is needed to invest in infrastructure improvements over 20 years to ensure the provision of safe water; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) $202,500,000,000 is needed for publicly owned wastewater systems-related infrastructure needs over 20 years.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) According to the Edison Electric Institute, the electric power industry will need to invest $298,000,000,000 in the Nation’s transmission system by 2030 in order to maintain reliable service.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(5) According to the American Council on Renewable Energy, renewable energy could provide up to 635 gigawatts of new electricity generating capacity by 2025, a substantial contribution and potentially more than the Nation’s need for new capacity, according to the United States Energy Information Administration.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(6) According to the United States Green Building Council, United States buildings account for nearly 39 percent of primary energy use and 38 percent of carbon emissions.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(7) According to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), the United States ranks 14th among OECD nations in broadband access per 100 inhabitants.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(8) Although grant programs of the Government must continue to play a central role in financing the transportation, environment, energy, and telecommunications infrastructure needs of the United States, current and foreseeable demands on existing Federal, State, and local funding for infrastructure expansion exceed the resources to support these programs by margins wide enough to prompt serious concerns about the United States’ ability to sustain long-term economic development, productivity, and international competitiveness.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(9) The capital markets, including central banks, pension funds, financial institutions, sovereign wealth funds, and insurance companies, have a growing interest in infrastructure investment. The establishment of a United States Government-owned institution that would provide this investment opportunity through high quality bond issues that would be used to finance qualifying infrastructure projects would attract needed capital for United States infrastructure development.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.

For purposes of this Act, the following definitions apply unless the context requires otherwise:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) BANK- The term ‘Bank’ means the National Infrastructure Development Bank established under section 4(a).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) BOARD- The term ‘Board’ means the National Infrastructure Development Bank Board.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) CHIEF ASSET AND LIABILITY MANAGEMENT OFFICER- The term ‘chief asset and liability management officer’ means the chief individual responsible for coordinating the management of assets and liabilities of the Bank.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) CHIEF COMPLIANCE OFFICER- The term ‘chief compliance officer or CCO’ means the chief individual responsible for overseeing and managing the compliance and regulatory affairs issues of the Bank.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(5) CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER- The term ‘chief financial officer or CFO’ means the chief individual responsible for managing the financial risks, planning, and reporting of the Bank.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(6) CHIEF LOAN ORIGINATION OFFICER- The term ‘chief loan origination officer’ means the chief individual responsible for the processing of new loans provided by the Bank.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(7) CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER- The term ‘chief operations officer or COO’ means the chief individual responsible for information technology and the day to day operations of the Bank.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(8) CHIEF RISK OFFICER- The term ‘chief risk officer or CRO’ means the chief individual responsible for managing operational and compliance-related risks of the Bank.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(9) CHIEF TREASURY OFFICER- The term ‘chief treasury officer’ means the chief individual responsible for managing the Bank’s treasury operations.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(10) DEVELOPMENT- The terms ‘development’ and ‘develop’ mean, with respect to an infrastructure project, any--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) preconstruction planning, feasibility review, permitting, design work, and other preconstruction activities; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) construction, reconstruction, rehabilitation, replacement, or expansion.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(11) DISADVANTAGED COMMUNITY- The term ‘disadvantaged community’ means a community with a median household income of less than 80 percent of the statewide median household income for the State in which the community is located.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(12) ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECT- The term ‘energy infrastructure project’ means any project for energy transmission, energy efficiency enhancement for buildings, public housing, and schools, renewable energy, and energy storage.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(13) ENTITY- The term ‘entity’ means an individual, corporation, partnership (including a public-private partnership), joint venture, trust, and a State or other governmental entity, including a political subdivision or any other instrumentality of a State or a revolving fund.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(14) ENVIRONMENTAL INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECT- The term ‘environmental infrastructure project’ means any project for the establishment, maintenance, or enhancement of any drinking water and wastewater treatment facility, storm water management system, dam, levee, open space management system, solid waste disposal facility, hazardous waste facility, or industrial site cleanup.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(15) EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR- The term ‘executive director’ means the individual serving as the chief executive officer of the Bank.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(16) GENERAL COUNSEL- The term ‘general counsel’ means the individual who serves as the chief lawyer for the Bank.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(17) INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECT- The term ‘infrastructure project’ means any energy, environmental, telecommunications, or transportation infrastructure project.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(18) PUBLIC BENEFIT BOND- The term ‘public benefit bond’ means a bond issued with respect to an infrastructure project in accordance with this Act if--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) the net spendable proceeds from the sale of the issue may be used for expenditures incurred after the date of issuance with respect to the project, subject to the rules of the Bank;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) the bond issued by the Bank is in registered form and meets the requirements of this Act and otherwise applicable law; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) the payment of principal with respect to the bond is the obligation of the Bank.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(19) PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP- The term ‘public-private partnership’ means any entity--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A)(i) which is undertaking the development of all or part of an infrastructure project, which will have a public benefit, pursuant to requirements established in one or more contracts between the entity and a State or an instrumentality of a State; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(ii) the activities of which, with respect to such an infrastructure project, are subject to regulation by a State or any instrumentality of a State; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) which owns, leases, or operates, or will own, lease, or operate, the project in whole or in part, and at least one of the participants in the entity is a nongovernmental entity.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(20) REVOLVING FUND- The term ‘revolving fund’ means a fund or program established by a State or a political subdivision or other instrumentality of a State, the principal activity of which is to make loans, commitments, or other financial accommodation available for the development of one or more categories of infrastructure projects.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(21) SECRETARY- The term ‘Secretary’ means the Secretary of the Treasury or the designee of the Secretary.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(22) SMART GRID- The term ‘smart grid’ means a system that provides for any of the smart grid functions set forth in section 1306(d) of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (42 U.S.C. 17386(d)).CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





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





(24) TELECOMMUNICATIONS INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECT- The term ‘telecommunications infrastructure project’ means any project involving infrastructure required to provide communications by wire or radio.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(25) TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECT- The term ‘transportation infrastructure project’ means any project for the construction, maintenance, or enhancement of highways, roads, bridges, transit and intermodal systems, inland waterways, commercial ports, airports, high speed rail and freight rail systems.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 4. ESTABLISHMENT OF NATIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT BANK.

(a) Establishment of National Infrastructure Development Bank- The National Infrastructure Development Bank is established as a wholly owned Government corporation subject to chapter 91 of title 31, United States Code (commonly known as the ‘Government Corporation Control Act’), except as otherwise provided in this Act.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Responsibility of the Secretary- The Secretary shall take such action as may be necessary to assist in implementing the establishment of the bank in accordance with this Act.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) Conforming Amendment- Section 9101(3) of title 31, United States Code, is amended by inserting after subparagraph (N) the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





‘(O) the National Infrastructure Development Bank.’.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 5. BOARD OF DIRECTORS.

(a) In General- The Bank shall have a Board of Directors consisting of 5 members appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Qualifications- The directors of the Board shall include individuals representing different regions of the United States and--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) 2 of the directors shall have public sector experience; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) 3 of the directors shall have private sector experience.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) Chairperson and Vice Chairperson- As designated at the time of appointment, one of the directors of the Board shall be designated chairperson of the Board by the President and one shall be designated as vice chairperson of the Board by the President.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(d) Terms-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) IN GENERAL- Except as provided in paragraph (2) and subsection (f), each director shall be appointed for a term of 6 years.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) INITIAL STAGGERED TERMS- Of the initial members of the Board--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) the chairperson and vice chairperson shall be appointed for terms of 6 years;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) 1 shall be appointed for a term of 5 years;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) 1 shall be appointed for a term of 4 years; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(D) 1 shall be appointed for a term of 3 years.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(e) Date of Initial Nominations- The initial nominations by the President for appointment of directors to the Board shall be made not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(f) Vacancies-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) IN GENERAL- A vacancy on the Board shall be filled in the manner in which the original appointment was made.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) APPOINTMENT TO REPLACE DURING TERM- Any director appointed to fill a vacancy occurring before the expiration of the term for which the director’s predecessor was appointed shall be appointed only for the remainder of the term.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) DURATION- A director may serve after the expiration of that director’s term until a successor has taken office.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(g) Quorum- Three directors shall constitute a quorum.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(h) Reappointment- A director of the Board appointed by the President may be reappointed by the President in accordance with this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(i) Per Diem Reimbursement- Directors of the Board shall serve on a part-time basis and shall receive a per diem when engaged in the actual performance of Bank business, plus reasonable reimbursement for travel, subsistence, and other necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their duties.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(j) Limitations- A director of the Board may not participate in any review or decision affecting a project under consideration for assistance under this Act if the director has or is affiliated with a person who has an interest in such project.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(k) Powers and Limitations of the Board-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) POWERS- In order to carry out the purposes of the Bank as set forth in this Act, the Board shall be responsible for monitoring and overseeing infrastructure projects and have the following powers:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) To make senior and subordinated loans and purchase senior and subordinated debt securities and enter into a binding commitment to make any such loan or purchase any such security, on such terms as the Board may determine, in the Board’s discretion, to be appropriate, the proceeds of which are used to assist in the financing or refinancing of the development of one or more infrastructure projects.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) To issue and sell debt securities of the Bank on such terms as the Board shall determine from time to time.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) To issue public benefit bonds and to provide financing to infrastructure projects from amounts made available from the issuance of such bonds.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(D) To make loan guarantees.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(E) To make agreements and contracts with any entity in furtherance of the business of the Bank.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(F) To borrow on the global capital market and lend to regional, State, and local entities, and commercial banks for the purpose of funding infrastructure projects.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(G) To purchase in the open market any of the Bank’s outstanding obligations at any time and at any price.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(H) To monitor and oversee infrastructure projects financed, in whole or in part, by the Bank.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(I) To acquire, lease, pledge, exchange, and dispose of real and personal property and otherwise exercise all the usual incidents of ownership of property to the extent the exercise of such powers are appropriate to and consistent with the purposes of the Bank.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(J) To sue and be sued in the Bank’s corporate capacity in any court of competent jurisdiction, except that no attachment, injunction, or similar process, may be issued against the property of the Bank or against the Bank with respect to such property.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(K) To indemnify the directors and officers of the Bank for liabilities arising out of the actions of the directors and officers in such capacity, in accordance with, and subject to the limitations contained in, this Act.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(L) To serve as the primary liaison between the Bank, Congress, the executive branch, and State and local governments and to represent the Bank’s interests.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(M) To exercise all other lawful powers which are necessary or appropriate to carry out, and are consistent with, the purposes of the Bank.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) LIMITATIONS-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) ISSUANCE OF DEBT SECURITY- The Board may not issue any debt security without the prior consent of the Secretary.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) ISSUANCE OF VOTING SECURITY- The Board may not issue any voting security in the Bank to any entity other than the Secretary.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) ACTIONS CONSISTENT WITH SELF-SUPPORTING ENTITY STATUS- The Board shall conduct its business in a manner consistent with the requirements of this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) COORDINATION WITH STATE AND LOCAL REGULATORY AUTHORITY- The provision of financial assistance by the Board pursuant to this Act shall not be construed as--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) limiting the right of any State or political subdivision or other instrumentality of a State to approve or regulate rates of return on private equity invested in a project; orCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) otherwise superseding any State law or regulation applicable to a project.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(5) FEDERAL PERSONNEL REQUESTS- The Board shall have the power to request the detail, on a reimbursable basis, of personnel from other Federal agencies with specific expertise not available from within the Bank or elsewhere. The head of any Federal agency may detail, on a reimbursable basis, any personnel of such agency requested by the Board and shall not withhold unreasonably the detail of any personnel requested by the Board.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(l) Meetings-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) OPEN TO THE PUBLIC; NOTICE- All meetings of the Board held to conduct the business of the Bank shall be open to the public and shall be preceded by reasonable notice.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) INITIAL MEETING- The Board shall meet not later than 90 days after the date on which all directors of the Board are first appointed and otherwise at the call of the Chairperson.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) EXCEPTION FOR CLOSED MEETINGS- Pursuant to such rules as the Board may establish through their bylaws, the directors may close a meeting of the Board if, at the meeting, there is likely to be disclosed information which could adversely affect or lead to speculation relating to an infrastructure project under consideration for assistance under this Act or in financial or securities or commodities markets or institutions, utilities, or real estate. The determination to close any meeting of the Board shall be made in a meeting of the Board, open to the public, and preceded by reasonable notice. The Board shall prepare minutes of any meeting which is closed to the public and make such minutes available as soon as the considerations necessitating closing such meeting no longer apply.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 6. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE.

(a) In General- The Board shall have an executive committee consisting of 9 members, headed by the executive director of the Bank.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Executive Director- A majority of the Board shall have the authority to appoint and reappoint the executive director.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) CEO- The executive director shall be the chief executive officer of the Bank, with such executive functions, powers, and duties as may be prescribed by this Act, the bylaws of the Bank, or the Board.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(d) Other Executive Officers- The Board shall appoint, remove, fix the compensation, and define duties of 8 other executive officers to serve on the Executive Committee as the--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) chief compliance officer;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) chief financial officer;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) chief asset and liability management officer;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) chief loan origination officer;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(5) chief operations officer;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(6) chief risk officer;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(7) chief treasury officer; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(8) general counsel.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(e) Qualifications- The executive director and other executive officers shall have demonstrated experience and expertise in one or more of the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) Transportation infrastructure.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) Environmental infrastructure.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) Energy infrastructure.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) Telecommunications infrastructure.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(5) Economic development.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(6) Workforce development.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(7) Public health.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(8) Private or public finance.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(f) Duties- In order to carry out the purposes of the Bank as set forth in this Act, the executive committee shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) establish disclosure and application procedures for entities nominating projects for assistance under this Act;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) accept, for consideration, project proposals relating to the development of infrastructure projects, which meet the basic criteria established by the Board, and which are submitted by an entity;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) provide recommendations to the Board and place project proposals accepted by the executive committee on a list for consideration for financial assistance from the Board; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) provide technical assistance to entities receiving financing from the Bank and otherwise implement decisions of the Board.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(g) Vacancy- A vacancy in the position of executive director shall be filled in the manner in which the original appointment was made.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(h) Compensation- The compensation of the executive director and other executive officers of the executive committee shall be determined by the Board.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(i) Removal- The executive director and other executive officers may be removed at the discretion of a majority of the Board.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(j) Term- The executive director and other executive officers shall serve a 6-year term and may be reappointed in accordance with this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(k) Limitations- The executive director and other executive officers shall not--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) hold any other public office;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) have any interest in an infrastructure project considered by the Board;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) have any interest in an investment institution, commercial bank, or other entity seeking financial assistance for any infrastructure project from the Bank; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) have any such interest during the 2-year period beginning on the date such officer ceases to serve in such capacity.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 7. RISK MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE.

(a) Establishment of Risk Management Committee- The Bank shall establish a risk management committee consisting of 5 members, headed by the chief risk officer.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Appointments- A majority of the Board shall have the authority to appoint and reappoint the CRO of the Bank.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) Functions; Duties-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) IN GENERAL- The CRO shall have such functions, powers, and duties as may be prescribed by one or more of the following: This Act, the bylaws of the Bank, and the Board. The CRO shall report directly to the Board.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) RISK MANAGEMENT DUTIES- In order to carry out the purposes of this Act, the risk management committee shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) create financial, credit, and operational risk management guidelines and policies to be adhered to by the Bank;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) set guidelines to ensure diversification of lending activities by both region and infrastructure project type;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) create conforming standards for infrastructure finance securities;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(D) monitor financial, credit and operational exposure of the Bank; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(E) provide financial recommendations to the Board.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(d) Other Risk Management Officers- The Board shall appoint, remove, fix the compensation, and define the duties of 4 other risk management officers to serve on the risk management committee.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(e) Qualifications- The CRO and other risk management officers shall have demonstrated experience and expertise in one or more of the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) Treasury and asset and liability management.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) Investment regulations.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) Insurance.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) Credit risk management and credit evaluations.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(5) Related disciplines.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(f) Vacancy- A vacancy in the position of CRO or any other risk management officer shall be filled in the manner in which the original appointment was made.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(g) Compensation- The compensation of the CRO and other risk management officers shall be determined by the Board.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(h) Removal- The CRO and any other risk management officers may be removed at the discretion of a majority of the Board.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(i) Term- The CRO and other risk management officers shall serve a 6-year term and may be reappointed in accordance with this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(j) Limitations- The CRO and other risk management officers shall not--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) hold any other public office;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) have any interest in an infrastructure project considered by the Board;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) have any interest in an investment institution, commercial bank, or other entity seeking financial assistance for any infrastructure project from the Bank; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) have any such interest during the 2-year period beginning on the date such officer ceases to serve in such capacity.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 8. AUDIT COMMITTEE.

(a) In General- The Bank shall have an audit committee consisting of 5 members, headed by the chief compliance officer of the Bank.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Appointments- A majority of the Board shall have the authority to appoint and reappoint the CCO of the Bank.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) Functions; Duties- The CCO shall have such functions, powers, and duties as may be prescribed by one or more of the following: This Act, the bylaws of the Bank, and the Board. The CCO shall report directly to the Board.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(d) Audit Duties- In order to carry out the purposes of the Bank under this Act, the audit committee shall--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) provide internal controls and internal auditing activities for the Bank;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) maintain responsibility for the accounting activities of the Bank;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) issue financial reports of the Bank; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) complete reports with outside auditors and public accountants appointed by the Board.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(e) Other Audit Officers- The Board shall appoint, remove, fix the compensation, and define the duties of 4 other audit officers to serve on the audit committee.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(f) Qualifications- The CCO and other audit officers shall have demonstrated experience and expertise in one or more of the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) Internal auditing.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) Internal investigations.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) Accounting practices.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) Financing practices.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(g) Vacancy- A vacancy in the position of CCO or any other audit officer shall be filled in the manner in which the original appointment was made.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(h) Compensation- The compensation of the CCO and other audit officers shall be determined by the Board.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(i) Removal- The CCO and other audit officers may be removed at the discretion of a majority of the Board.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(j) Term- The CCO and other audit officers shall serve a 6-year term and may be reappointed in accordance with this section.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(k) Limitations- The CCO and other audit officers shall not--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) hold any other public office;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) have any interest in an infrastructure project considered by the Board;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) have any interest in an investment institution, commercial bank, or other entity seeking financial assistance for any infrastructure project from the Bank; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) have any such interest during the 2-year period beginning on the date such officer ceases to serve in such capacity.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 9. PERSONNEL.

The chairperson of the Board, executive director, chief risk officer, and chief compliance officer shall appoint, remove, fix the compensation of, and define the duties of such qualified personnel to serve under the Board, executive committee, risk management committee, or audit committee, as the case may be, as necessary and prescribed by one or more of the following: This Act, the bylaws of the Bank, and the Board.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 10. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR ASSISTANCE FROM BANK.

(a) In General- No financial assistance shall be available under this Act from the Bank unless the applicant for such assistance has demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Board that the project for which such assistance is being sought meets--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) the requirements of this Act; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) any criteria established in accordance with this Act by the Board.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Establishment of Project Criteria-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) IN GENERAL- Consistent with the requirements of subsections (c) and (d), the Board shall establish--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) criteria for determining eligibility for financial assistance under this Act;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) disclosure and application procedures to be followed by entities to nominate projects for assistance under this Act; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) such other criteria as the Board may consider to be appropriate for purposes of carrying out this Act.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) FACTORS TO BE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) IN GENERAL- The Bank shall conduct an analysis that takes into account the economic, environmental, social benefits, and costs of each project under consideration for financial assistance under this Act, prioritizing projects that contribute to economic growth, lead to job creation, and are of regional or national significance.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) CRITERIA- The criteria established pursuant to paragraph (1)(A) shall provide for the consideration of the following factors in considering eligibility for financial assistance under this Act:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(i) The means by which development of the infrastructure project under consideration is being financed, including--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(I) the terms and conditions and financial structure of the proposed financing;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(II) the financial assumptions and projections on which the project is based; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(III) the extent to which the infrastructure project maximizes investment from other sources.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(ii) The likelihood that the provision of assistance by the Bank will cause such development to proceed more promptly and with lower costs for financing than would be the case without such assistance.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(iii) The extent to which the provision of assistance by the Bank maximizes the level of private investment in the infrastructure project while providing a public benefit.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) Factors for Specific Types of Projects-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS- For any transportation infrastructure project, the Board shall consider the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) Job creation, including workforce development for women and minorities, responsible employment practices, and quality job training opportunities.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) Reduction in carbon emissions.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) Reduction in surface and air traffic congestion.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(D) Poverty and inequality reduction through targeted training and employment opportunities for low-income workers.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(E) Use of smart tolling, such as vehicle miles traveled and congestion pricing, for highway, road, and bridge projects.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(F) Public health benefits.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) ENVIRONMENTAL INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECT- For any environmental infrastructure project, the Board shall consider the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) Public health benefits.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) Pollution reductions.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) Job creation, including workforce development for women and minorities, responsible employment practices, and quality job training opportunities.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(D) Poverty and inequality reduction through targeted training and employment opportunities for low-income workers.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECT- For any energy infrastructure project, the Board shall consider the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) Job creation, including workforce development for women and minorities, responsible employment practices, and quality job training opportunities.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) Poverty and inequality reduction through targeted training and employment opportunities for low-income workers.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) Reduction in carbon emissions.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(D) Expanded use of renewable energy.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(E) Development of a smart grid.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(F) Energy efficient building, housing, and school modernization.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(G) In any case in which the project is also a public housing project--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(i) improvement of the physical shape and layout;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(ii) environmental improvement; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(iii) mobility improvements for residents.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(H) Public health benefits.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(4) TELECOMMUNICATIONS- For any telecommunications project, the Board shall consider the following:CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) The extent to which assistance expands or improves broadband and wireless services in rural and disadvantaged communities.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) Poverty and inequality reduction through targeted training and employment opportunities for low-income workers.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) Job creation, including work force development for women and minorities, responsible employment practices, and quality job training opportunities.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(d) Consideration of Project Proposals-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) PARTICIPATION BY OTHER AGENCY PERSONNEL- Consideration of projects by the executive committee and the Board shall be conducted with personnel on detail to the Bank from relevant Federal agencies from among individuals who are familiar with and experienced in the selection criteria for competitive projects.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) FEES- A fee may be charged for the review of any project proposal in such amount as maybe considered appropriate by the executive committee to cover the cost of such review.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(e) Discretion of Board- Consistent with other provisions of this Act, any determination of the Board to provide assistance to any project, and the manner in which such assistance is provided, including the terms, conditions, fees, and charges shall be at the sole discretion of the Board.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(f) State and Local Permits Required- The provision of assistance by the Board in accordance with this Act shall not be deemed to relieve any recipient of assistance or the related project of any obligation to obtain required State and local permits and approvals.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(g) Annual Report- An entity receiving assistance from the Board shall make annual reports to the Board on the use of any such assistance, compliance with the criteria set forth in this section, and a disclosure of all entities with a development, ownership, or operational interest in a project assisted or proposed to be assisted under this Act.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 11. EXEMPTION FROM LOCAL TAXATION.

All notes, debentures, bonds or other such obligations issued by the Bank, and the interest on or credits with respect to such bonds or other obligations, shall not be subject to taxation by any State, county, municipality, or local taxing authority.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 12. STATUS AND APPLICABILITY OF CERTAIN FEDERAL LAWS; NO FULL FAITH AND CREDIT.

(a) Budgeting and Auditors Practices- The Bank shall comply with all Federal laws regulating the budgetary and auditing practices of a government corporation, except as otherwise provided in this Act.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) No Full Faith and Credit of the United States- Obligations of the Bank shall not be obligations of, or guaranteed as to principal or interest by, the United States or any agency of the United States and the obligations shall so plainly state.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) Effect of and Exemptions From Other Laws-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) EXEMPT SECURITIES- All debt securities and other obligations issued by the Bank pursuant to this Act shall be deemed to be exempt securities within the meaning of laws administered by the Securities and Exchange Commission to the same extent as securities which are direct obligations of, or obligations fully guaranteed as to principal or interest by, the United States.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) OPEN MARKET OPERATIONS AND STATE TAX EXEMPT STATUS- The obligations of the Bank shall be deemed to be obligations of the United States for the purposes of the provision designated as (b)(2) of the 2nd undesignated paragraph of section 14 of the Federal Reserve Act (12 U.S.C. 355) and section 3124 of title 31, United States Code.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(3) NO PRIORITY AS A FEDERAL CLAIM- The priority established in favor of the United States by section 3713 of title 31, United States Code, shall not apply with respect to any indebtedness of the Bank.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(d) Federal Reserve Banks as Depositories, Custodians, and Fiscal Agents- The Federal reserve banks may act as depositaries for, or custodians or fiscal agents of, the Bank.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(e) Access to Book-Entry System- The Secretary may authorize the Bank to use the book-entry system of the Federal reserve system.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 13. COMPLIANCE WITH DAVIS-BACON ACT.

All laborers and mechanics employed by contractors and subcontractors on projects funded directly by or assisted in whole or in part by and through the Bank pursuant to this Act shall be paid wages at rates not less than those prevailing on projects of a character similar in the locality as determined by the Secretary of Labor in accordance with subchapter IV of chapter 31 of part A of title 40, United States Code. With respect to the labor standards specified in this section, the Secretary of Labor shall have the authority and functions set forth in Reorganization Plan Numbered 14 of 1950 (64 Stat. 1267; 5 U.S.C. App.) and section 3145 of title 40, United States Code.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 14. APPLICABILITY OF CERTAIN STATE LAWS.

The receipt by any entity of any assistance under this Act, directly or indirectly, and any financial assistance provided by any governmental entity in connection with such assistance under this Act shall be valid and lawful notwithstanding any State or local restrictions regarding extensions of credit or other benefits to private persons or entities, or other similar restrictions.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 15. AUDITS; REPORTS TO PRESIDENT AND CONGRESS.

(a) Accounting- The books of account of the Bank shall be maintained in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and shall be subject to an annual audit by independent public accountants appointed by the Board and of nationally recognized standing.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Reports-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) BOARD- The Board shall submit to the President and Congress, within 90 days after the last day of each fiscal year, a complete and detailed report with respect to the preceding fiscal year, setting forth--CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(A) a summary of the Bank’s operations, for such preceding fiscal year;CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(B) a schedule of the Bank’s obligations and capital securities outstanding at the end of such preceding fiscal year, with a statement of the amounts issued and redeemed or paid during such preceding fiscal year; andCommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(C) the status of projects receiving funding or other assistance pursuant to this Act, including disclosure of all entities with a development, ownership, or operational interest in such projects.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) GAO- Not later than 5 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall submit to Congress a report evaluating activities of the Bank for the fiscal years covered by the report that includes an assessment of the impact and benefits of each funded project, including a review of how effectively each project accomplished the goals prioritized by the Bank’s project criteria.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) Books and Records-CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(1) IN GENERAL- The Bank shall maintain adequate books and records to support the financial transactions of the Bank with a description of financial transactions and infrastructure projects receiving funding, and the amount of funding for each project maintained on a publically accessible database.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(2) AUDITS BY THE SECRETARY AND GAO- The books and records of the Bank shall be maintained in accordance with recommended accounting practices and shall be open to inspection by the Secretary and the Comptroller General of the United States.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 16. CAPITALIZATION OF BANK.

(a) Authorization of Appropriation- There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary for purchase of the shares of the Bank $5,000,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, and 2016 with the aggregate representing 10 percent of the total subscribed capital of the Bank.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(b) Callable Capital- Of the total subscribed capital of the Bank, 90 percent shall be callable capital subject to call from the Secretary only as and when required by the Bank to meet its obligations on borrowing of funds for inclusion in its ordinary capital resources or guarantees chargeable to such resources.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink





(c) Outstanding Loans- At any time, the aggregate amount outstanding of bonds issued by the Bank shall not exceed 250 percent of its total subscribed capital.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink

SEC. 17. SUNSET.

The Bank shall cease to exist 15 years after the date of enactment of this Act.CommentsClose CommentsPermalink