Latest content added for UNT Digital Library Collection: Congressional Research Service Reportshttps://digital.library.unt.edu/explore/collections/CRSR/browse/?fq=dc_language:eng&start=48&display=grid2019-01-12T17:20:31-06:00UNT LibrariesThis is a custom feed for browsing UNT Digital Library Collection: Congressional Research Service ReportsSerbia: Background and U.S. Relations2019-01-12T17:20:31-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404183/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404183/"><img alt="Serbia: Background and U.S. Relations" title="Serbia: Background and U.S. Relations" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404183/small/"/></a></p><p>This report provides an overview of Serbia and its governmental structure, economy, and foreign relations with the U.S., Kosovo, Turkey, Russia, and the European Union (EU).</p>U.S. Agent Orange/Dioxin Assistance to Vietnam2019-01-12T17:20:31-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404200/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404200/"><img alt="U.S. Agent Orange/Dioxin Assistance to Vietnam" title="U.S. Agent Orange/Dioxin Assistance to Vietnam" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404200/small/"/></a></p><p>This report discusses U.S. assistance to Vietnam for the environmental and health damage attributed to a dioxin contained in Agent Orange and other herbicides sprayed over much of the southern portion of the country during the Vietnam War, which remains a major issue in bilateral relations.</p>Tribal Broadband: Status of Deployment and Federal Funding Programs2019-01-12T17:20:31-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404201/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404201/"><img alt="Tribal Broadband: Status of Deployment and Federal Funding Programs" title="Tribal Broadband: Status of Deployment and Federal Funding Programs" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404201/small/"/></a></p><p>This report discusses federal funding for tribal broadband, and whether or not it is sufficient. Native American tribal areas and communities tend to lag behind other areas and segments of American society with respect to broadband and telecommunications services.</p>Section 232 Investigations: Overview and Issues for Congress2019-01-12T17:20:31-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404202/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404202/"><img alt="Section 232 Investigations: Overview and Issues for Congress" title="Section 232 Investigations: Overview and Issues for Congress" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404202/small/"/></a></p><p>This report provides an overview of Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, analyzes the Trump Administration's Section 232 investigations and actions, and considers potential policy and economic implications and issues for Congress. To provide context for the current debate, the report also includes a discussion of previous Section 232 investigations and a brief legislative history of the statute.</p>Alternative Fuel and Advanced Vehicle Technology Incentives: A Summary of Federal Programs2019-01-12T17:20:31-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404203/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404203/"><img alt="Alternative Fuel and Advanced Vehicle Technology Incentives: A Summary of Federal Programs" title="Alternative Fuel and Advanced Vehicle Technology Incentives: A Summary of Federal Programs" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404203/small/"/></a></p><p>This report gives an overview of the federal incentives that support the development and deployment of alternatives to conventional fuels and engines in transportation including tax deductions and credits for vehicle purchases and the installation of refueling systems; federal grants for conversion of older vehicles to newer technologies; mandates for the use of biofuels; and incentives for manufacturers to produce alternative fuel vehicles. It also addresses how these incentives relate to goals of reducing petroleum consumption and import dependence, improving environmental quality, expanding domestic manufacturing, and promoting agriculture and rural development.</p>FY2018 and FY2019 Agriculture Appropriations: Federal Food Safety Activities2019-01-12T17:20:31-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404181/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404181/"><img alt="FY2018 and FY2019 Agriculture Appropriations: Federal Food Safety Activities" title="FY2018 and FY2019 Agriculture Appropriations: Federal Food Safety Activities" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404181/small/"/></a></p><p>This report provides a brief overview of the FY2018 and FY2019 appropriations that address food safety activities at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS).</p>Bahrain: Unrest, Security, and U.S. Policy2019-01-12T17:20:31-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404184/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404184/"><img alt="Bahrain: Unrest, Security, and U.S. Policy" title="Bahrain: Unrest, Security, and U.S. Policy" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404184/small/"/></a></p><p>This report discusses the political structure and human rights issues in Bahrain, including the 2011 uprising and its aftermath. Additionally, the report discusses Bahrain's relations with the United States and with the other countries in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) alliance.</p>Video Relay Service: Program Funding and Reform2019-01-12T17:20:31-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404185/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404185/"><img alt="Video Relay Service: Program Funding and Reform" title="Video Relay Service: Program Funding and Reform" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404185/small/"/></a></p><p>This report provides an introduction about how the video relay service works and and overview of the program. It discusses the fundamental restructuring of the program to support innovation and competition.</p>Brexit at a Pivotal Moment2019-01-12T17:20:31-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404187/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404187/"><img alt="Brexit at a Pivotal Moment" title="Brexit at a Pivotal Moment" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404187/small/"/></a></p><p>This report discusses the draft withdrawal agreement in the the United Kingdom's (UK's) expected withdrawal from the European Union (EU), known as Brexit. It also summarizes issues for the U.S. Congress to consider in regard to Brexit.</p>Presidential Disability Under the Twenty-fifth Amendment: Constitutional Provisions and Perspectives for Congress2019-01-12T17:20:31-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404188/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404188/"><img alt="Presidential Disability Under the Twenty-fifth Amendment: Constitutional Provisions and Perspectives for Congress" title="Presidential Disability Under the Twenty-fifth Amendment: Constitutional Provisions and Perspectives for Congress" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404188/small/"/></a></p><p>This report provides a description and analysis of Sections 3 and 4 of the Twenty-Fifth Amendment, which deal with presidential disability or inability. It also reviews the history of presidential disability and earlier proposals to provide for such contingencies, provides a legislative history of the Twenty-Fifth Amendment and examines relevant legislative proposals pending in the 115th Congress.</p>The Posse Comitatus Act and Related Matters: A Sketch2019-01-12T17:20:31-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404189/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404189/"><img alt="The Posse Comitatus Act and Related Matters: A Sketch" title="The Posse Comitatus Act and Related Matters: A Sketch" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404189/small/"/></a></p><p>This report examines instances, as approved by Congress, where circumstances warrant a departure from the general rule of the Posse Comitatus Act, wherein the military is typically prevented from direct involvement in civilian affairs.</p>Introduction to the Legislative Process in the U.S. Congress2019-01-12T17:20:31-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404190/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404190/"><img alt="Introduction to the Legislative Process in the U.S. Congress" title="Introduction to the Legislative Process in the U.S. Congress" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404190/small/"/></a></p><p>This report introduces the main steps through which a bill (or other item of business) may travel in the legislative process. For many bills, the process will not follow the sequence of congressional stages that are often understood to make up the legislative process. This report presents a look at each of the common stages through which a bill may move, but complications and variations abound in practice.</p>Defense Authorization and Appropriations Bills: FY1961-FY20192019-01-12T17:20:31-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404191/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404191/"><img alt="Defense Authorization and Appropriations Bills: FY1961-FY2019" title="Defense Authorization and Appropriations Bills: FY1961-FY2019" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404191/small/"/></a></p><p>This report is a research aid that lists the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) authorization and appropriations bills for FY1961-FY2019 including: bill numbers, report numbers, dates reported and passed, recorded vote numbers and vote tallies, dates of passage of the conference reports with their numbers and votes, vetoes, substitutions, dates of final passage, and public law numbers. Significant definitions are also included.</p>Lame Duck Sessions of Congress Following a Majority-Changing Election: In Brief2019-01-12T17:20:31-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404192/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404192/"><img alt="Lame Duck Sessions of Congress Following a Majority-Changing Election: In Brief" title="Lame Duck Sessions of Congress Following a Majority-Changing Election: In Brief" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404192/small/"/></a></p><p>This report describes "lame duck" sessions of Congress, which take place whenever one Congress meets after its successor is elected but before the term of the current Congress ends. It specifically provides additional information on the 1954, 1994, and 2010 lame duck sessions.</p>Defense Primer: RDT&E2019-01-12T17:20:31-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404193/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404193/"><img alt="Defense Primer: RDT&E" title="Defense Primer: RDT&E" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404193/small/"/></a></p><p>This report describes the appropriations structure and funding levels for the U.S. Department of Defense's (DOD's) research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E). The DOD relies on scientific and technical research funded by the department and performed by industry, universities, federal laboratories, and others; the DOD also relies on technology developed by the private sector for commercial markets.</p>Quantum Information Science: Applications, Global Research and Development, and Policy Considerations2019-01-12T17:20:31-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404194/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404194/"><img alt="Quantum Information Science: Applications, Global Research and Development, and Policy Considerations" title="Quantum Information Science: Applications, Global Research and Development, and Policy Considerations" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404194/small/"/></a></p><p>This report provides an overview of quantum information science (QIS) technologies: sensing and metrology, communications, and computing and simulation. It also includes examples of existing and potential future applications; brief summaries of funding and selected R&D initiatives in the United States and elsewhere around the world; a description of U.S. congressional activity; and a discussion of related policy considerations.</p>The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA): Historical Overview, Funding, and Reauthorization2019-01-12T17:20:31-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404195/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404195/"><img alt="The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA): Historical Overview, Funding, and Reauthorization" title="The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA): Historical Overview, Funding, and Reauthorization" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404195/small/"/></a></p><p>This report provides a brief history of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) with an overview of the crimes addressed through the act. It includes brief descriptions of earlier VAWA reauthorizations and a more-detailed description of the most recent reauthorization in 2013. The report concludes with a discussion of VAWA programs and a five-year history of funding from FY2014 through FY2018.</p>Iran and Israel: Tension Over Syria2019-01-12T17:20:31-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404196/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404196/"><img alt="Iran and Israel: Tension Over Syria" title="Iran and Israel: Tension Over Syria" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404196/small/"/></a></p><p>This report discusses the tensions between Iran and Israel, which have been exacerbated since 2011 by Iranian military operations in support of the Syrian government.</p>Defense Primer: Navigating the NDAA2019-01-12T17:20:31-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404197/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404197/"><img alt="Defense Primer: Navigating the NDAA" title="Defense Primer: Navigating the NDAA" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404197/small/"/></a></p><p>This report provides an overview of the structure and organization of the annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).</p>The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP): Background and Funding2019-01-12T17:20:31-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404198/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404198/"><img alt="The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP): Background and Funding" title="The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP): Background and Funding" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404198/small/"/></a></p><p>This report begins by describing the population using emergency food assistance. It goes on to discuss the the Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) program, including its administration at the federal, state, and local levels, eligibility rules, and funding structure. The report concludes by summarizing TEFAP's role in disaster response and recent reauthorization efforts.</p>The Defense Production Act of 1950: History, Authorities, and Considerations for Congress2019-01-12T17:20:31-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404238/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404238/"><img alt="The Defense Production Act of 1950: History, Authorities, and Considerations for Congress" title="The Defense Production Act of 1950: History, Authorities, and Considerations for Congress" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404238/small/"/></a></p><p>This report examines some of the extensive history of the Defense Production Act of 1950 (DPA), focusing primarily on its creation and most recent legislative reauthorization. This report also identifies relevant delegations of the President's DPA authorities made in Executive Order (E.O.) 13603 -- National Defense Resources Preparedness -- and provides a brief overview of issues Congress may consider in its oversight.</p>Teacher Preparation Policies and Issues in the Higher Education Act2019-01-12T17:20:31-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404248/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404248/"><img alt="Teacher Preparation Policies and Issues in the Higher Education Act" title="Teacher Preparation Policies and Issues in the Higher Education Act" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404248/small/"/></a></p><p>This report provides a description of current programs and provisions in Title II-A and identifies a number of the key issues that may be part of the debate over the reauthorization of the Higher Education Act (HEA).</p>World Trade Organization: Overview and Future Direction2019-01-12T17:20:31-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404250/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404250/"><img alt="World Trade Organization: Overview and Future Direction" title="World Trade Organization: Overview and Future Direction" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404250/small/"/></a></p><p>This report provides background history of the World Trade Organization (WTO), its organization, and current status of negotiations. It also explores concerns regarding the WTO's future direction and key policy issues for Congress.</p>China's Status as a Nonmarket Economy (NME)2019-01-12T17:20:31-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404252/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404252/"><img alt="China's Status as a Nonmarket Economy (NME)" title="China's Status as a Nonmarket Economy (NME)" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1404252/small/"/></a></p><p>This report discusses China's classification by the World Trade Organization (WTO). China contends that language in its WTO accession protocol required all WTO members to terminate their use of the alternative methodology; the United States and other WTO members argue that that the WTO language did not automatically obligate them to extend market economy status (MES) to China.</p>South Sudan's Civil War: Nearly 400,000 Estimated Dead2018-12-18T15:29:00-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393663/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393663/"><img alt="South Sudan's Civil War: Nearly 400,000 Estimated Dead" title="South Sudan's Civil War: Nearly 400,000 Estimated Dead" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393663/small/"/></a></p><p>This report discusses the impact of the civil war in South Sudan, which has been ongoing since December 2013.</p>Arms Sales: Congressional Review Process2018-12-18T15:29:00-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393665/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393665/"><img alt="Arms Sales: Congressional Review Process" title="Arms Sales: Congressional Review Process" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393665/small/"/></a></p><p>This report reviews the process and procedures that currently apply to congressional consideration of foreign arms sales proposed by the President. This includes consideration of proposals to sell major defense equipment, defense articles and services, or the re-transfer to third party states of such military items.</p>China's Currency Policy2018-12-18T15:29:00-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393666/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393666/"><img alt="China's Currency Policy" title="China's Currency Policy" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393666/small/"/></a></p><p>This report provides an overview of the economic issues surrounding the current debate over China's currency policy. It identifies the economic costs and benefits of China's currency policy for both China and the United States, and possible implications if China were to allow its currency to significantly appreciate or to float freely.</p>The Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program: Selected Issues2018-12-18T15:29:00-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393667/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393667/"><img alt="The Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program: Selected Issues" title="The Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program: Selected Issues" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393667/small/"/></a></p><p>This report begins with a brief legislative and regulatory history of the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, with a brief description of how the program works. It also describes several selected program issues that have received recent congressional and stakeholder attention, issues identified in reviews of the program, and issues that have been raised by researchers, analysts, and other entities outside of the government.</p>EPA's Affordable Clean Energy Proposal2018-12-18T15:29:00-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393668/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393668/"><img alt="EPA's Affordable Clean Energy Proposal" title="EPA's Affordable Clean Energy Proposal" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393668/small/"/></a></p><p>This report provides background information about the Clean Air Act (CAA) and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the power sector, and also highlights some of the major components of the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA's) "Affordable Clean Energy Rule" (ACE) proposal.</p>Vehicle Fuel Economy and Greenhouse Gas Standards2018-12-18T15:29:00-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393669/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393669/"><img alt="Vehicle Fuel Economy and Greenhouse Gas Standards" title="Vehicle Fuel Economy and Greenhouse Gas Standards" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393669/small/"/></a></p><p>This report discusses the amendments to the federal standards that regulate fuel economy and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from new passenger cars and light trucks. The amendments were proposed by the Trump Administration on August 24, 2018.</p>Party Leaders in the House: Election, Duties, and Responsibilities2018-12-18T15:29:00-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393670/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393670/"><img alt="Party Leaders in the House: Election, Duties, and Responsibilities" title="Party Leaders in the House: Election, Duties, and Responsibilities" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393670/small/"/></a></p><p>This report summarizes the election, duties, and responsibilities of the Speaker of the House, the majority and minority leaders, and the whips and whip system.</p>The United Arab Emirates (UAE): Issues for U.S. Policy2018-12-18T15:29:00-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393671/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393671/"><img alt="The United Arab Emirates (UAE): Issues for U.S. Policy" title="The United Arab Emirates (UAE): Issues for U.S. Policy" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393671/small/"/></a></p><p>This report discusses the current political and economic landscape of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and its relationship with the U.S. The UAE has been a significant U.S. partner in Gulf security for more than two decades, and the alliance has deepened further in recent years in order to address multiple regional threats.</p>Global Trade Imbalances2018-12-18T15:29:00-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393672/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393672/"><img alt="Global Trade Imbalances" title="Global Trade Imbalances" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393672/small/"/></a></p><p>This report discusses the International Monetary Fund's (IMF) July 2018 report on global trade imbalances that identifies countries with "excessive" current account balances and exchange rates that are "misaligned." The current account is a broad measure of a country's global economic engagement and is comprised of trade in goods, services, and official flows.</p>Navy Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) Program: Background and Issues for Congress2018-12-18T15:29:00-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393674/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393674/"><img alt="Navy Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) Program: Background and Issues for Congress" title="Navy Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) Program: Background and Issues for Congress" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393674/small/"/></a></p><p>This report provides background information and issues for Congress on the Navy's Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) program. A total of 32 LCSs have been procured through FY2018. For FY2019, the Navy is requesting the procurement of the 33rd LCS. The LCS program presents several oversight issues for Congress.</p>Afghanistan: Legislation in the 115th Congress2018-12-18T15:29:00-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393675/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393675/"><img alt="Afghanistan: Legislation in the 115th Congress" title="Afghanistan: Legislation in the 115th Congress" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393675/small/"/></a></p><p>This report summarizes legislative proposals in the 115th Congress that relate to U.S. policy in Afghanistan. Proposals address a number of issues including: 1) aspects of the U.S. troop presence in the country, 2) information that the executive branch provides to Congress, 3) the role of women in Afghan society, government, and the military, 4) purposes for U.S. aid, and conditions under which it can be obligated, 5) overall U.S. strategy in Afghanistan, including prospects for a negotiated settlement, and 6) regional dynamics, including the role of Russia.</p>The United States and the "World Court"2018-12-18T15:29:00-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393676/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393676/"><img alt="The United States and the "World Court"" title="The United States and the "World Court"" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393676/small/"/></a></p><p>This report reviews the most recent International Court of Justice (ICJ) proceedings against the United States by Iran and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and the implications for Congress of the Trump Administration's withdrawal decision.</p>Iran Sanctions2018-12-18T15:29:00-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393678/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393678/"><img alt="Iran Sanctions" title="Iran Sanctions" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393678/small/"/></a></p><p>This report analyzes U.S. and international sanctions against Iran. The report tracks "implementation" of the various U.S. laws and Executive Orders as designations and imposition of sanctions. Some sanctions require the blocking of U.S.-based property of sanctioned entities.</p>Military Medical Care: Frequently Asked Questions2018-12-18T15:29:00-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393679/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393679/"><img alt="Military Medical Care: Frequently Asked Questions" title="Military Medical Care: Frequently Asked Questions" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393679/small/"/></a></p><p>This report answers selected frequently-asked questions about military health care, including: 1) How is the Military Health System structured?, 2) What is TRICARE?, 3) What are the different TRICARE plans and who is eligible?, 4) What are the costs of military health care to beneficiaries?, 5) What is the relationship of TRICARE to Medicare?, 6) How does the Affordable Care Act affect TRICARE?, 7) When can beneficiaries change their TRICARE plan?, and 8) What is the Medicare Eligible Retiree Health Care fund, which funds TRICARE for Life?</p>Coast Guard Polar Security Cutter (Polar Icebreaker) Program: Background and Issues for Congress2018-12-18T15:29:00-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393680/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393680/"><img alt="Coast Guard Polar Security Cutter (Polar Icebreaker) Program: Background and Issues for Congress" title="Coast Guard Polar Security Cutter (Polar Icebreaker) Program: Background and Issues for Congress" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393680/small/"/></a></p><p>This report provides background information and issues for Congress on the Coast Guard's program for acquiring new polar icebreakers -- previously known as the polar icebreaker (PIB) program and now called the Polar Security Cutter (PSC) program. The proposed FY2019 budget requests $750 million in acquisition funding for the program. The issue for Congress is whether to approve, reject, or modify the Administration's FY2019 acquisition funding request for the PSC program, and, more generally, whether to approve, reject, or modify the Coast Guard's overall plan for procuring new polar icebreakers.</p>Hurricane Michael: Brief Overview of FEMA Programs and Resources2018-12-18T15:29:00-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393681/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393681/"><img alt="Hurricane Michael: Brief Overview of FEMA Programs and Resources" title="Hurricane Michael: Brief Overview of FEMA Programs and Resources" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393681/small/"/></a></p><p>This report provides a brief overview of emergency and major disaster declarations relevant to Hurricane Michael, and selected federal resources and links to CRS products related to Stafford Act declarations, disaster response, and recovery.</p>Defense's 30-Year Aircraft Plan Reveals New Details2018-12-18T15:29:00-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393682/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393682/"><img alt="Defense's 30-Year Aircraft Plan Reveals New Details" title="Defense's 30-Year Aircraft Plan Reveals New Details" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393682/small/"/></a></p><p>This report discusses the U.S. Department of Defense 30-year aviation plan released in April 2018. The yearly plan is intended to chart the direction of the aviation enterprise and is typically relatively short on specifics. By contrast, the most recent 30-year aviation plan is full of details on specific programs, including cancellations, life extensions, and new starts.</p>Navy Columbia (SSBN-826) Class Ballistic Missile Submarine Program: Background and Issues for Congress2018-12-18T15:29:00-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393684/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393684/"><img alt="Navy Columbia (SSBN-826) Class Ballistic Missile Submarine Program: Background and Issues for Congress" title="Navy Columbia (SSBN-826) Class Ballistic Missile Submarine Program: Background and Issues for Congress" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393684/small/"/></a></p><p>This report provides background information and potential oversight issues for Congress on the Columbia-class program, a program to design and build a new class of 12 ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) to replace the Navy's current force of 14 Ohio-class SSBNs. The program was previously known as the Ohio replacement program (ORP) or SSBN(X) program. The Navy has identified the Columbia-class program as the Navy's top priority program, and wants to procure the first Columbia-class boat in FY2021.</p>What Legal Obligations do Internet Companies Have to Prevent and Respond to a Data Breach?2018-12-18T15:29:00-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393685/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393685/"><img alt="What Legal Obligations do Internet Companies Have to Prevent and Respond to a Data Breach?" title="What Legal Obligations do Internet Companies Have to Prevent and Respond to a Data Breach?" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393685/small/"/></a></p><p>This report discusses obligations of Internet companies under both federal and state law. It also discusses several factors Congress might consider when weighing future legislation.</p>House Passes Bill to Amend the Federal "Crime of Violence" Definition2018-12-18T15:29:00-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393686/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393686/"><img alt="House Passes Bill to Amend the Federal "Crime of Violence" Definition" title="House Passes Bill to Amend the Federal "Crime of Violence" Definition" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393686/small/"/></a></p><p>This report discusses the Community Safety and Security Act of 2018 (CSSA), which was recently passed in the House and which would amend the federal "crime of violence" (COV) definition.</p>Do Courts Have Inherent Authority to Release Secret Grand Jury Materials?2018-12-18T15:29:00-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393687/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393687/"><img alt="Do Courts Have Inherent Authority to Release Secret Grand Jury Materials?" title="Do Courts Have Inherent Authority to Release Secret Grand Jury Materials?" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393687/small/"/></a></p><p>This report discusses the issue of releasing secret grand jury material. Although a long-established principle that has been deemed essential to the grand jury's functioning and independence is that matters occurring before it are to be kept secret, the Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 6(e) establishes exceptions.</p>The National Popular Vote (NPV) Initiative: Direct Election of the President by Interstate Compact2018-12-18T15:29:00-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393688/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393688/"><img alt="The National Popular Vote (NPV) Initiative: Direct Election of the President by Interstate Compact" title="The National Popular Vote (NPV) Initiative: Direct Election of the President by Interstate Compact" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393688/small/"/></a></p><p>This report monitors the National Popular Vote's (NPV) progress in the states. It includes sections that provide brief background on the electoral college, history of the National Popular Vote concept, more detail on the NPV initiative, pros and cons for the NPV, legal issues, and concluding observations.</p>NIH Funding: FY1994-FY20192018-12-18T15:29:00-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393689/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393689/"><img alt="NIH Funding: FY1994-FY2019" title="NIH Funding: FY1994-FY2019" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393689/small/"/></a></p><p>This report discusses funding for the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) from 1994 to 2019. The NIH is the primary federal agency charged with conducting and supporting biomedical and behavioral research. It is the largest of the eight health-related agencies that make up the Public Health Service (PHS) within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).</p>Internships, Fellowships, and Other Work Experience Opportunities in the Federal Government2018-12-18T15:29:00-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393690/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393690/"><img alt="Internships, Fellowships, and Other Work Experience Opportunities in the Federal Government" title="Internships, Fellowships, and Other Work Experience Opportunities in the Federal Government" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393690/small/"/></a></p><p>This report describes Internet resources on major internship, fellowship, and work experience programs within the federal government. It is intended as a selective guide for students of all levels: high school, undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate.</p>Deeming Resolutions: Budget Enforcement in the Absence of a Budget Resolution2018-12-18T15:29:00-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393683/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393683/"><img alt="Deeming Resolutions: Budget Enforcement in the Absence of a Budget Resolution" title="Deeming Resolutions: Budget Enforcement in the Absence of a Budget Resolution" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393683/small/"/></a></p><p>This report discusses deeming resolutions, which are used by Congress as a substitute when budget resolution bills are not passed. It provides historical notes about how frequently deeming resolutions have been used and how they have varied, and also alternate options for budgetary enforcement.</p>Cuba: U.S. Policy in the 115th Congress2018-12-18T15:29:00-06:00https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393655/<p><a href="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393655/"><img alt="Cuba: U.S. Policy in the 115th Congress" title="Cuba: U.S. Policy in the 115th Congress" src="https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc1393655/small/"/></a></p><p>This report examines U.S. policy toward Cuba in the 115th Congress in three sections: Cuba's political and economic environment; U.S. policy toward Cuba; and selected issues in U.S.-Cuban relations, including restrictions on travel and trade, funding for democracy and human rights projects in Cuba and for U.S. government-sponsored radio and television broadcasting, migration, anti-drug cooperation, U.S. property claims, and U.S. fugitives from justice in Cuba.</p>