United States · United States Congress · 14 September 1976
Establishes a select committee in the House of Representatives to conduct an investigation of the circumstances surrounding the death of John F. Kennedy and Martin Luther King, Junior. Directs the Committee to report to the House as soon as practicable during the present Congress the results of its investigation, together with such recommendations as it deems advisable.
United States · United States Congress · 9 September 1976
Restates the charter of the George Washington University, Washington, D.C. in its entirety. Sets forth the purposes and powers of the university. Prohibits any individual (except the president of the university) from serving as a member of the board of trustees during the period in which the individual is an officer, professor or other employee of the university. Stipulates the powers of the board of trustees of the university. Authorizes the board to merge the university with any other nonprofit organization by a two-thirds vote.
United States · United States Congress · 10 August 1976
Amends the Consumer Credit Protection Act to prohibit practices in the case of second mortgages which secure residential property including (1) prepayment of mortgage penalization; (2) foreclosure or seizure of real property under a judgment entered upon warrant of attorney to confess judgment without an opportunity for a judicial hearing; (3) extension of credit to a mortgagor who the creditor knows does not have projected income sufficient to meet the payment schedule; and (4) harassment of the mortgagor in connection with the collection of mortgage payments. Prescribes remedies for such violations. Entitles a mortgagor of a second mortgage to retain funds obtained under the mortgage without obligation to repay on or after the date of any violation. Prohibits any real estate broker (other than the mortgagor) who has arranged a second mortgage which is secured by residential real property to acquire, directly or indirectly, such property (or proceeds resulting from its disposition) at a foreclosure sale or auction of such property. Imposes a fine of up to $10,000 for such violation.
United States · United States Congress · 10 August 1976
Amends Title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to authorize payment under such title for services furnished by physician extenders and clinical staff of community mental health centers. Defines the term "physician extender" to mean a "physicians asssistant," "Medex," and "nurse practitioner" who, having completed an educational program meeting guidelines prescribed by the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, is trained and qualified to provide primary health care under the supervision of a physician.
United States · United States Congress · 29 July 1976
District of Columbia Retirement Reform Act - Title I: Financing of Retirement Benefits - Establishes the District of Columbia Retirement Board to exercise exclusive authority to manage and control the funds established by this Act. Details provisions relating to the Board's composition, the election and terms of office of Board members, the procedures to be followed by the Board, and the financing of the Board's operators. Establishes the District of Columbia Policemen and Firemen's Retirement Fund into which shall be deposited: (1) amounts withheld from the salaries of, and deposited by, members of the Metropolitan Police, the Fire Department of the District of Columbia, the United States Park Police, the Executive Protective Service, and the United States Secret Service, pursuant to the Policemen and Firemen's Retirement and Disability Act, (2) amounts appropriated to the Fund pursuant to this Act, and (3) amounts made as return on investment of the assets of the Fund. Establishes the District of Columbia Teachers' Retirement Fund into which shall be deposited: (1) amounts withheld from the salaries of, and amounts deposited by, each teacher in the public schools of the District of Columbia for such teachers' retirement account, (2) amounts appropriated to the Fund pursuant to this Act, and (3) amounts made as return on investment of the assets of the Fund. Establishes the District of Columbia Judges Retirement Fund into which shall be deposited: (1) amounts withheld from the salaries of, and amounts deposited by, judges of the District of Columbia Court of Appeals and the Superior Court of the District of Columbia, (2) amounts appropriated to the Fund pursuant to this Act, and (3) amounts made as return on investment of the assets of the Fund. Requires that the assets of each Fund established by this Act be kept separate from other moneys, but not necessarily kept separate from one another if the Board determines that commingling of such assets is advisable for investment purposes. Requires the Board to maintain a cash reserve for the Funds sufficient to meet currently annunity and disability benefits outlays. Prohibits the investment of assets of the funds in obligations issued or guaranteed in whole or in part by the government of the District of Columbia or in obligations secured by real property in the District of Columbia. Directs the Board to engage an enrolled actuary to periodically determine: (1) the amount required to be deposited in each Fund annually in perpetuity in order to meet the cost of annuities and other retirement and disability benefits payable in perpetuity from the Fund less the amount of employee contributions ot the Fund, and (2) the amount received to meet the obligations of each Fund for the next fiscal year less employee contributions for such period. Directs the Comptroller General to annually audit the accounts and records of the Board. Sets forth formulae to determine annual Federal amortization payments and annual District of Columbia payments to each Fund. Authorizes the appropriation of specified sums from the revenues of the United States and from amounts in the United States Treasury credited to the District of Columbia for Federal and District of Columbia contributions to each Fund, respectively. Directs the Board to publish annual reports with respect to each retirement program and corresponding Fund to which this Act applies. Requires that each such report include: (1) a financial statement containing a statement of Fund assets and liabilities, a statement of changes in net assets available for benefits under the retirement program, and other specified information; (2) an opinion by an independent public accountant as to whether such financial statement is presented in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles; (3) an actuarial statement containing specified information relating to the Fund and retirement program; (4) information relating to the number of employees covered by the retirement program, persons receiving compensation from the Fund, and specified changes to the Funds operation; and (5) a report from each insurance company or similar organization from which program benefits are purchased or which guarantees such benefits. Directs the Board to prepare summary retirement programs descriptions to be supplied to each participant in, and beneficiary under, each retirement program to which this Act applies. Requires that annual reports and copies of summary retirement program descriptions, including periodic updates containing material modification, be filed with the Mayor of the District of Columbia, the District of Columbia Council, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the President pro tempore of the Senate. Empowers the Mayor, the Council, or either House of Congress to reject any filing upon making specified findings. Suspends Federal contributions to any Fund with respect to which a filing is rejected or no timely filing has been made pending an acceptable filing. Requires that copies of such reports and descriptions be made available for public inspection. Authorizes the Board to designate one or more persons to exercise fiduciary responsibilities with respect to Funds established by this Act but places with the Board fiduciary responsibility for the oversight of any person so designated. Lists standards guidelines to be followed by fiduciaries in the discharge of their duties. Specifies circumstances under which a fiduciary shall be liable for a breach of fiduciary duty by another fiduciary. Prohibits a fiduciary from causing the Fund to engage in specified transactions with interested parties or with itself. Deems void any provision in an agreement instrument which purports to relieve a fiduciary responsibility or liability. Permits the Board, fiduciaries, and groups of retirement program participants to purchase insurance to cover liability or losses arising from a breach of fiduciary duty. Prohibits any person convicted of specified crimes from serving as an administrator, fiduciary, counsel, or employee of, or as a consultant to, any Fund established by this Act within five years of any such conviction or release from imprisonment, unless the Board of Parole of the United States determines that such person's service with the Fund would not be contrary to the purposes of this Act. Sets forth criminal penalties for violation of fiduciary obligations. Creates civil causes of action for the benefit of specified plaintiffs to enforce the provisions of this Act. Specifies time limits within which civil actions grounded on breach of fiduciary duty must be brought. Title II: Changes in Retirement Benefits - Revises the method for determining the salary base period for computation of annuities of participants in the District of Columbia Policemen and Firemen's Retirement Fund. Sets forth separate procedures and standards for members of the Metropolitan Police and the Fire Department with respect to (1) eligibility for voluntary retirement, (2) eligibility for disability retirement, (3) amount of disability annuities, (4) suspension of disability annuities, (5) physical examination of disability annuitants, and (6) amount of survivors annuities. Entitles any such member who completes five years of service and who is thereafter separated from service other than through disability retirement or voluntary optional retirement to elect to either (1) receive at the time of separation the amount of deductions from such individual's salary deposited in the Fund, or (2) receive an annuity beginning on the first day of the month during which such individual attains age 55 or on the first day of the month after such individual's separation from service, whichever occurs later. Authorizes cost-of-living adjustments in annuities payable from the District of Columbia Policemen and Firemen's Retirement Fund. Eliminates the one percent increase added on to cost-of-living increases in the annuities of District of Columbia Public school teachers and judges. Revises the means for determining eligibility for each such adjustment.
United States · United States Congress · 29 July 1976
Amends the District of Columbia Code to apply provisions relating to pretrial detention of persons charged with capital crimes only to those defendants charged with first degree murder or forcible rape. Limits the application of provisions relating to pretrial detention of defendants presently on probation, parole, or mandatory release pending completion of sentence to those persons charged with (1) a dangerous crime, (2) a violent crime, or (3) an obstruction or attempted obstruction of justice by threatening or injuring a prospective witness or juror. Extends the maximum permissable detention period of such a defendant pending notification to appropriate state or Federal courts or officials to ten days. Empowers a judicial officer to order that such a defendant be detained until trial upon finding a substantial probability that the defendant committed the offense as charged. Grants specified procedural rights to persons so detained. Permits institution of pretrial detention hearings by a judicial officer on such officer's own initiative. Extends to 90 days the period after which a defendant who is charged with a dangerous crime, a violent crime, or an obstruction of justice and is ordered detained pending trial must be released, unless the trial is in progress or has been delayed at the request of the defendant.
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 1976
Small Business Growth and Job Creation Act - Title I: Small Business Independence and Continuation - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to establish graduated corporate income tax rates. Changes the holding period for capital assets from six months to one year. Establishes a new alternative tax on capital gains. Increases the estate tax exemption from $60,000 to $180,000. Establishes a new rate schedule for the estate tax. Increases the gift tax exclusion from $3,000 to $9,000, and the gift tax exemption from $30,000 to $90,000. Replaces the present gift tax schedule with a flat rate of 75 percent of whatever the estate tax on such a sum would be. Provides that a distribution of property by a corporation in redemption of stock to pay death taxes shall be treated as a distribution in full payment in exchange for the stock if all of the stock of such corporation which is included in determining the value of the decedent's gross estate is either, (1) more than 20 percent (generally, 35 percent), of the value of the gross estate of such decedent, or (2) more than 40 percent (generally, 50 percent) of the taxable estate of such decedent. Provides that if stock in a corporation is sold by a shareholder owning stock representing more than 30 percent of the fair market value of all outstanding stock of the corporation whose stock is being sold, the gain from such sale shall be recognized only to the extent that the taxpayer's sale price exceeds the cost of replacement property purchased by the taxpayer within two years. Defines "replacement property" as property which is held for the production of income or which is held for investment. Allows the executor of an estate involving an interest in a closely held business to elect to include in the value of the gross estate the decedent's basis in such business rather than the fair market value of such interest. States that the basis of property acquired from a decedent as to which such an election was made shall be the decedent's basis in such property rather than the fair market value of such interest. Allows the marital deduction of the estate tax to exceed 50 percent of the value of the adjusted gross estate when an interest in a specially defined small business is included in the estate. Title II: Small Business Growth Incentives - Allows a taxpayer to choose the cash method of accounting in any case where inventory is an income determining factor and the ending inventory for the taxable year does not exceed $200,000. Provides a deferred tax credit against taxable income for unincorporated businesses. Establishes a graduated investment tax credit. Amends the definition of a small business corporation to allow domestic corporations with up to 20 shareholders (presently, ten) to qualify for subchapter S treatment. Allows a small business to make a subchapter S election at any time during the taxable year. Allows to a business a credit equal to 50 percent of the wages paid during the taxable year to new employees, up to two employees and $20,000 for the taxable year. Allows a similar credit for new disadvantaged employees up to a maximum of $60,000 per taxable year. Allows the practical cost recovery method to be used in computing depreciation. Title III: Small Business Tax Simplification - Allows a corporation to file an application for refund of overpayment of estimated income tax at any time during the taxable year. Provides a special rule for treatment of net operating loss adjustments in the case of new corporations. Increases the minimum credit on accumulated earnings from $150,000 to $500,000. Redefines "section 1244 stock" to mean common stock in a corporation if: (1) such corporation during its preceding taxable year derived more than 50 percent of its aggregate gross receipts from sources other than royalties, rents, dividends, interest, annuities, and sales or exchanges of stock or securities; and (2) the equity capital of such corporation does not exceed $1,000,000. Increases the losses on section 1244 stock which may be treated as ordinary losses (rather than capital losses) from $25,000 to $50,000.
United States · United States Congress · 22 July 1976
National Consumer Cooperative Bank Act - Title I: National Consumer Cooperative Bank - Sets forth the findings of Congress that there is a need for the establishment of a National Consumer Cooperative Bank and a Cooperative Bank and Assistance Administration which will make available necessary financial and technical assistance to cooperative self-help endeavors as a means of strengthening the Nation's economy. Establishes the National Consumer Cooperative Bank. States that the Bank shall: (1) encourage the development of new and existing cooperatives eligible for its assistance by providing specialized credit and technical assistance; (2) maintain broad-based control of the Bank by its voting stockholders; (3) encourage broad-based ownership, control and active participation by members in eligible cooperatives; (4) assure that the net savings from its operations and the operations of borrowers from the Bank, are made available or accounted for to the stockholders or members of the cooperative organization; and (5) assist in improving the quality and availability of goods and services to consumers. Authorizes the creation of no less than four nor more than twelve corporate regional banks. States that the Bank shall have the power to make and service loans, commitments for credit, guarantees, furnish financially related services, technical assistance, and issue obligations. Enumerates additional powers necessary to carry out its powers and duties under this Act. Authorizes appropriations of $250,000,000 per year for the United States to purchase class A preferred stock of the Bank. Requires the Bank to hold an annual meeting of stockholders. Permits the Bank to obtain funds through the public or private sale of its bonds, debentures, notes, and other evidences of indebtedness. Authorizes the Bank to make loans to eligible organizations which shall be repayable in not more than forty years. States that the objective of the Bank shall be to provide the type of credit needed by eligible borrowers, at the lowest reasonable cost on a sound business basis, taking into account the cost of money to the Bank. Defines "eligible cooperatives" for purposes of assistance under this title as an organization chartered or operated on a cooperative, not for profit basis for producing or furnishing goods, services, facilities, or financing, primarily for the benefit of its members or voting stockholders who are ultimate consumers, if it meets specified criteria, or any other institution chartered or operated in such a way as to enhance competitive market forces or to reduce the price spread between producers and the ultimate consumers of products or services. Title II: Self-Help Development Fund - Establishes in the Treasury a Consumer Cooperative Self-Help Development Fund. Authorizes appropriations of $250,000,000 to be deposited in the Fund. Permits the Cooperative Bank and Assistance Administration to make a capital investment advance out of the Fund to any eligible cooperative if the Administration determines that the applicant's initial or supplemental capital requirements exceed its ability to obtain a Title I loan from the Bank or other sources, and the membership of the applicant consists substantially of low-income persons. Title III: Cooperative Technical Assistance - Directs the Cooperative Bank and Assistance Administration to make available information and services concerning the organization or reorganization of cooperatives to best achieve the objectives of this Act and to best provide the means through which various types of goods, services, and facilities can be made available to members and patrons. States that such assistance may include investigations, surveys, and director and management training and assistance. Authorizes appropriations to the Administration of sums necessary for the administration of this title. Title IV: The Cooperative Bank and Assistance Administration and General Provisions - Establishes the Cooperative Bank and Assistance Administration. Directs the Administration to assure that the objectives of this Act are carried out. States that until the stock of the Bank held by the United States has been fully retired the Bank shall be exempt from any form of taxation. Requires the Administration and the Board to report annually to the appropriate committee of Congress on the activities of the Administration and on the Bank's capital, operations, financial condition, the self-help development fund, and to make recommendations for legistation to improve its services. Authorizes appropriations of sums necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act, in addition to appropriations specifically authorized.
United States · United States Congress · 30 June 1976
Amends the District of Columbia Income and Franchise Tax Act of 1947 to impose an income tax on the gross income of nonresidents of the District of Columbia which is derived from sources within the District, including the Federal Government. Stipulates that such tax shall be at one-third of the rate applicable in the case of a District of Columbia resident. Prohibits the Council of the District of Columbia from imposing any additional or greater tax on nonresidents than imposed by this Act, unless the same proportion of additional or greater tax is imposed on residents. Repeals the tax on unincorporated businesses. Requires every employer making payment of wages to a nonresident to deduct and withhold a tax upon such wages in accordance with regulations to be promulgated by the Council of the District of Columbia. Makes technical and conforming amendments.
United States · United States Congress · 22 June 1976
Permits the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to initiate a civil action to enforce Federal prohibitions against discriminatory housing practices. Allows Federal courts to award private plaintiffs bringing suit out to enforce such prohibitions reasonable attorney fees whether or not such individuals are financially able to bear the cost.
United States · United States Congress · 18 June 1976
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the United States Postal Service shall not close or suspend the operation of any post offices, unless there is a clear and compelling need to do so. Encourages the service to continue cost-cutting programs which do not affect levels of service.
United States · United States Congress · 25 May 1976
Grants judicial officers the power to deny pretrial release to persons charged with the commission of violent crimes if there is reason to believe that such persons would flee or pose a danger to others or the community. (Adds 18 U.S.C. 3146A; Amends 18 U.S.C. 3156a)
United States · United States Congress · 20 May 1976
Amends Title XVIII (Medicare) and Title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to include as "medical and other health services" for which coverage will be provided under Medicare, and as "medical assistance" for which coverage will be provided under Medicaid, that medical or other remedial care furnished by licensed (registered) nurses within the scope of their practices as defined by State law.
United States · United States Congress · 20 May 1976
Restates the Federal charter of the George Washington University, Washington, D. C. Sets forth the purposes and powers of the university. Stipulates that the bylaws of the university shall determine the number of, and minimum qualifications for, members of the board of trustees. Sets forth the powers of the board. Allows nonprofit tax exempt organizations under the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 to merge into the university under specified conditions.
United States · United States Congress · 18 May 1976
Requires the Mayor of the District of Columbia to include within the annual study of the fire and police departments of other jurisdictions in the Washington area information regarding conditions of employment, including hours of work, retirement and health benefits, and leave. Stipulates that such information shall form the basis for consideration of adjustments in the working conditions of members and officers of the Metropolitan Police force and the Fire Department of the District of Columbia who are outside the scope of collective bargaining agreements. Restricts negotiations between the District of Columbia and representatives of officers and members of the Metropolitan Police force and the Fire Department of the District of Columbia relating to compensation and working conditions to changes to become effective on the first day of the fiscal year. Empowers the Council of the District of Columbia to reject any ensuing collective bargaining agreement, or to formulate recommendations with respect to changes where no agreement is reached. Sets forth alternative procedures to be followed implementing any such Council action. Directs the Board of Education of the District of Columbia to appoint a city personnel salary and benefits committee to conduct the annual study comparing the compensation of District educational personnel with that paid similar employees in other jurisdictions in the Washington area and in cities of comparable size. Requires that such studies include information relating to working conditions. Stipulates that such information shall form the basis for consideration of adjustments in the compensation and working conditions of educational personnel who are outside the scope of collective bargaining agreements. Restricts negotiations between the District of Columbia and representatives of the teachers in the public day schools of the District of Columbia relating to compensation and working conditions to changes to become effective on the first day of the next fiscal year. Empowers the Council of the District of Columbia to reject any ensuing collective bargaining agreement, or to formulate recommendations with respect to changes where no agreement is reached. Sets forth alternative procedures to be implemented following any such Council action.
United States · United States Congress · 18 May 1976
Directs the Postmaster General to issue a special postage stamp in honor of Doctor Martin Luther King, Junior, and in tribute to his accomplishments as a citizen of the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 13 May 1976
Minority Enterprise Act - Title I: Amendments Affecting the Small Business Act - Amends the Small Business Act to establish the Office of Minority Small Business Assistance Personnel in the Small Business Administration (SBA) to work with all agencies of the Government having procurement powers in order to identify contracts suitable for minority concerns and within each regional office of the SBA to supervise and coordinate minority small business programs. Defines the term "minority" as used under this Act. Directs the Administrator of the SBA to appoint an Associate Administrator for Minority Small Business and Procurement Assistance. Increases the authorization for appropriations in the small business loan program and requires that not less than 25 percent of aggregate direct loans shall be made to minority small business concerns. Increases the authorization for appropriations for the equal opportunity loan program. Provides statutory standards for contracting and subcontracting by the United States with respect to minority businesses. Directs the Administration to prepare and publish in the Federal Register rules governing the maximum size of small business concerns qualified to receive procurement assistance under the Small Business Act. Requires that the Administration shall report to Congress and the President concerning the development of minority small businesses. Authorizes $201,600,000 to be appropriated for purposes of this title. Title II: Amendments to the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949 - Requires that a Utilization of Minority Business Enterprises clause appear in specified Government contracts. Defines "minority business enterprise" for purposes of this title. Requires that specified Government contractors establish and conduct a Minority Business Enterprises Subcontracting Program which includes: (1) designation of a liason officer to administer the contractor's program; (2) consideration of the potentialities of minority business enterprises in all "make or buy" decisions to provide materials or service; and (3) maintenance of records concerning procedures adopted and subcontracts awarded. Sets forth other preferences which will be extended to minority business enterprises. Title III: Commission on Federal Assistance to Minority Enterprise - Establishes the Commission on Federal Assistance to Minority Enterprise composed of 15 members to be appointed by the President with the consent of the Senate, from members of minority groups who are knowledgeable in minority participation in the economy. Provides for the compensation and terms of office of the members and the appointment of an Executive Director. Directs the Commission to develop methods for delivery of financial assistance to minority enterprise; for generating markets for goods and services; and for providing effective business education and technical assistance. Grants the Commission powers including: the holding of hearings, and information gathering from any agency of the U.S., in order to carry out the goals of this Act. Requires that the Commission shall submit semiannual reports to each House of Congress concerning its activities. Authorizes $748,000 to be appropriated for fiscal year 1977.
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 1976
Debt Collection Practices Act - Prohibits debt collectors from harassing or intimidating consumers in connection with the collection or attempted collection of any alleged debt arising from a consumer credit transaction. Sets forth conduct which violates this Act, including the use of violence by a debt collector, and practices used to acquire local information about a debtor which publicize the indebtedness, such as post cards. Limits the communication that the debt collector may have with the consumer in connection with debt collection. Requires that further direct collection efforts cease once the consumer has absolutely refused to pay except that the collector may advise the consumer that the further efforts are being terminated and that there is a possiblity of an attorney invoking the creditor's remedies. Prohibits false or misleading representation or impersonation in connection with the collection of an alleged debt. List unfair practices which a collector is required to avoid, including the acceptance by a debt collector from a consumer of any check or other negotiable instrument that is postdated or the soliciting of such instrument for purposes of threatening criminal action. Prohibits the taking of specified legal actions, such as causing unauthorized service of process, on the part of collectors. Requires that, within five days after the initial communication with a consumer in connection with the collection of any debt, the collector send the consumer a written notice containing specified information, including the name of the creditor, so as to provide the consumer with the opportunity to dispute the validity of the debt. Sets forth civil and criminal penalties for violations of the provisions of this Act. Requires that the Federal Trade Commission and the Attorney General report periodically to Congress concerning administration of their functions under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 30 April 1976
Amends the Medicare program of the Social Security Act to authorize payment under the supplementary medical insurance program for specified diagnostic tests and physical examinations given for the detection of breast cancer.
United States · United States Congress · 29 April 1976
District of Columbia Retirement Reform Act - Title I: Financing of Retirement Benefits - Establishes the District of Columbia Retirement Board to exercise exclusive authority to manage and control the Funds established by this Act. Details provisions relating to the Boards' composition, the election and terms of office of Board members, the procedures to be followed by the Board, and the financing of the Boards' operations. Establishes the District of Columbia Policemen and Firemen's Retirement Fund into which shall be deposited (1) amounts withheld from the salaries of, and amounts deposited by members of the Metropolitan Police, the Fire Department of the District of Columbia, the United States Park Police, the Executive Protective Service, and the United States Secret Service, pursuant to the Policemen and Firemen's Retirement and Disability Act, (2) amounts appropriated to the Fund pursuant to this Act, and (3) amounts made as return on investment of the assets of the Fund. Establishes the District of Columbia Teachers' Retirement Fund into which shall be deposited (1) amounts withheld from the salaries of, and amounts deposited by, each teacher in the public schools of the District of Columbia for such teacher's retirement account, (2) amounts appropriated to the Fund pursuant to this Act, and (3) amounts made as return on investment of the assets of the Fund. Establishes the District of Columbia Judges' Retirement Fund into which shall be deposited (1) amounts withheld from the salaries of, and amounts deposited by, judges of the District of Columbia Court of Appeals and the Superior Court of the District of Columbia, (2) amounts appropriated to the Fund pursuant to this Act, and (3) amounts made as return on investment of the assets of the Fund. Requires that the assets of each Fund established by this Act be kept separate from other moneys, but not necessarily kept separate from one another if the Board determines that commingling of such assets is advisable for investment purposes. Requires the Board to maintain a cash reserve for the funds sufficient to meet current annuity and disability benefit outlays. Prohibits the investment of assets of the Funds in obligations issued or guaranteed in whole or in part by the government of the District of Columbia or in obligations secured by real property in the District of Columbia. Directs the Baord to engage an enrolled actuary to periodically determine (1) the amount required to be deposited in each Fund annually in perpetuity in order to meet the cost of annuities and other retirement and disability benefits payable in perpetuity from the fund less the amount of employee contributions to the Fund, and (2) the amount required to meet the obligations of each Fund for the next fiscal year less employee contributions for such period. Sets forth formulas to determine annual Federal payments and annual District of Columbia payments to each Fund. Authorizes the appropriation of specified sums from the revenues of the United States and from amounts in the United States Treasury credited to the District of Columbia for Federal and District of Columbia contributions to each fund, respectively. Directs the Board to publish annual reports with respect to each retirement program and corresponding Fund to which this Act applies. Requires that each such report include (1) a financial statement containing a statement of Fund assets and liabilities, a statement of changes in net assets available for benefits under the retirement program, and other specified information; (2) an opinion by an independent public accountant as to whether such financial statement is presented in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles; (3) an actuarial statement containing specified information relating to the Fund and retirement program; (4) information relating to the number of employees covered by the retirement program, persons receiving compensation from the Fund, and specified changes to the Funds' operation; and (5) a report from each insurance company or similar organization from which program benefits are purchased or which guarantees such benefits. Directs the Board to prepare summary retirement program descriptions to be supplied to each participant in, and beneficiary under, each retirement program to which this Act applies. Requires that annual reports and copies of summary retirement program descriptions be filed with the mayor of the District of Columbia, the District of Columbia Council, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the President pro tempore of the Senate. Empowers the Mayor, the Council, or either House of Congress to reject any filing upon making specified findings. Suspends Federal contributions to any Fund with respect to which a filing is rejected or not timely filing has been made pending an acceptable filing. Requires that copies of such reports and descriptions be made available for public inspection. Authorizes the Board to designate one or more persons to exercise fiduciary responsibilities with respect to Funds established by this Act but places with the Board fiduciary responsibility for the oversight of any person so designated. Lists standards and guidelines to be followed by fiduciaries in the discharge of their duties. Specifies circumstances under which a fiduciary shall be liable for a breach of fiduciary duty by another fiduciary. Prohibits a fiduciary from causing the Fund to engage in specified transactions with interested parties or with itself. Deems void any provision in an agreement or instrument which purports to relieve a fiduciary from responsibility or liability. Permits the Board, fiduciaries, and groups of retirement program participants to purchase breach insurance to cover liability or losses arising from a breach of fiduciary duty. Prohibits any person convicted of specified crimes from serving as an administrator, fiduciary, counsel, or employee of, or as a consultant to, any Fund established by this Act within five years of any such conviction or release from imprisonment, unless the Board of Parole of the United States determines that such person's service with the Fund would not be contrary to the purposes of this Act. Creates civil causes of action for the benefit of specified plantiffs to enforce the provisions of this Act. Specifies time limits within which civil actions grounded on a breach of fiduciary duty must be brought. Title II: Changes In Retirement Benefits - Sets the salary base period for computation of annuities with respect to participants in the District of Columbia Policemen and Firemen's Retirement Fund hired at least 90 days subsequent to the enactment of this Act at the highest annual rate resulting from averaging such participant's rates of basic salary for any 36 months rather than for any 12 months of consecutive service. Redefines an optional basis for survivors annuities by allowing for cost-of-living adjustments in a retired participants' average pay. Sets forth regulations with respect to voluntary retirement, disability retirement, and separation other than by retirement, and the amount of annuities for each. Authorizes cost-of-living adjustments in annuities payable from the District of Columbia Policemen and Fireman's Retirement Fund. Eliminates the one percent increase added on to cost-of-living increases in the annuities of District of Columbia public School teachers and judges.
United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1976
Federal Regulatory Review Act - Establishes a Federal Regulatory Agency Review Commission to study the structures, policies and regulations of the regulatory agencies and make recommendations to the Congress to promote the elimination of practices which result in greater consumer costs, and to promote competition throughout American industry. Authorizes the Commission to hold hearings and to have access to any information which is relevant to its function. Directs the Commission to transmit an interim report to the Congress not later than six months after the Commission's first meeting and a final report six months later. Provides that the Commission shall expire 30 days after the submission of the final report.
United States · United States Congress · 6 April 1976
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to increase the percentage standard deduction to an amount equal to 20 percent of adjusted gross income but not to exceed (1) $3,000 in the case of a joint return or a surviving spouse, (2) $2,500 in the case of an unmarried individual, or (3) $1,500 in the case of a married individual filing a separate return.
United States · United States Congress · 1 April 1976
Housing Authorization Act - Increases the authorization of funds for the following programs administered by the Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD): (1) housing assistance; (2) comprehensive planning; (3) research; and (4) flood insurance. Authorizes an increase in appropriations for HUD's administrative expenses for fiscal year 1977. Increases mortgage limitations under the National Housing Act homeownership assistance programs. Extends assistance under the Emergency Homeowners' Relief Act and the Emergency Home Purchase Assistance Act through fiscal year 1977. Reallocates community development block grant funds under the Housing and Community Development Act. Amends the Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973 to exempt from provisions of the Act requiring flood insurance, any loan to finance a residence acquired prior to March 1, 1976, or one year following identification of the area where such building is located as a flood hazard area, whichever is later. Sets limitations on the funds available for the Rehabilitation Loan Program of the Housing Act of 1964 for fiscal year 1977. Authorizes appropriations of $500,000,000 to cover losses sustained by the General Insurance Fund under the National Housing Act. Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to increase construction and rehabilitation of units in connection with the Housing Assistance Payments Program. Extends the period of assistance payments for low-income housing where the dwelling unit is unoccupied, so long as a good faith effort is made to fill the unit and the unit provides decent, safe, and sanitary housing. Amends the Community Development Act of 1974 to allow the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to extend discretionary grant funds to specified new community projects. Increases from $800,000,000 to $1,475,000,000 the amount authorized to be appropriated for long-term direct loans to nonprofit sponsors for construction of housing for the elderly and the handicapped. Amends the Housing Act of 1949 to provide that the interest rates for loans for the construction of rural housing shall be determined by the Secretary of the Treasury upon request of the Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Amends the National Housing Act to allow the Federal Housing Administration to insure supplemental loans for hospitals. Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to make grants to any State, metropolitan city, or urban county which meets the requirements of a community development program as specified in the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974. Authorizes appropriations of such sums as are necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act. Sets forth allocation requirements with respect to such grants. States that in any calendar quarter, 75 percent shall be allocated to metropolitan cities and urban counties, except that the Secretary may establish such percentage as he deems appropriate in view of unemployment and related factors. Requires that employment data, determined by the Secretary of Labor, shall be utilized to establish the supplementary grant amounts which will be distributed in any calendar quarter. Stipulates that any metropolitan city or urban county which has been allocated supplementary grant assistance shall submit an application which outlines the proposed job intensive use and demonstrates that the use is consistent with the recipient's community development program.
United States · United States Congress · 1 April 1976
Establishes the Commission on the Adequacy of the Annual Federal Payment to the District of Columbia to study and analyze the costs and benefits to the District of Columbia which results from its status as the Nation's capital, with particular consideration given to determining what factors should be included in the computation of the annual Federal payment and how much significance should be given to each such factor.
United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1976
Authorizes the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs to make expenditures to correct serious structural defects in dwellings securing loans guaranteed or insured by the Administrator if the defect is one that existed on the date of issuance of the loan and is one that a proper inspection could reasonably be expected to disclose (presently, the dwellings must have been actually inspected by either the VA or FHA during construction). (Amends 38 U.S.C. 1827(a)).
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1976
Repeals the revisions of the Official United States Standards with respect to the grading of carcass beef and slaughter cattle. States that no change shall become effective in grade designations or specifications for slaughter cattle or carcass beef which provides for a higher grade designation for such cattle or carcass than would exist under current standards. Authorizes and directs the Secretary of Agriculture to promulgate regulations to establish a different and non deceptive grade designation and specification for beef.
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1976
Extends from four to five years, the period during which homeowners may apply for assistance in cases of structural defects in specified mortgaged homes under the National Housing Act.
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1976
Amends the National Housing Act to authorize expenditures by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development for repair of major structural defects which create a serious danger to the life and safety of inhabitants of any one-, two-, three-, or four-family dwelling covered by any mortgage insured by the Federal Housing Administration.
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1976
Prohibits the inspection, acquisition, or requisition by officers, employees, agents or departments of the United States of the medical or dental records of patients not receiving assistance from the Federal Government. Imposes penalties for violation of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1976
Amends the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 to provide acceptable uses of excess campaign contribution funds including: (1) use in connection with another specified general election which is held no later than two years after the election during which the contribution was made; (2) in the case of a candidate who is elected, such candidate may use excess contributions to defray any ordinary and necessary expenses incurred by such person in connection with the duties of the Federal office; and (3) such excess funds may be contributed by the candidate to any charitable organization as described in the Internal Revenue Code. Requires a candidate who does not put excess contributions to any of the specified uses to return such contributions to the persons making contributions to such candidate, and deposit the balance of such contributions which are not so returned in the Presidential Election Campaign Fund or to deposit the entire amount of such contributions in the Presidential Election Campaign Fund.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1976
Authorizes payment under the supplementary medical insurance program of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act for optometric and medical vision care.
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1976
Directs the Secretary of the Treasury and other Federal officials to initiate negotiations within the framework of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development and the International Monetary Fund with the intent of developing an appropriate code of conduct and specific trading obligations among governments, together with suitable procedures for the settlement of disputes.
United States · United States Congress · 26 February 1976
Amends the District of Columbia Medical and Dental Manpower Act to extend through fiscal year 1977 the authority of the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to make grants to nonprofit medical and dental schools.
United States · United States Congress · 19 February 1976
Debt Collection Practices Act - Prohibits debt collectors from harassing or intimidating consumers in connection with the collection or attempted collection of any alleged debt arising from a consumer credit transaction. Sets forth conduct violating this Act, including the use of violence by a debt collector, or publication of a list of consumers who allegedly refuse to pay debts. Prohibits communication with any person other than the consumer owing the debt or the spouse without prior consent of the consumer. Prohibits false or misleading representation or impersonation in connection with the collection of an alleged debt. States that no debt collector may engage in unfair practices, such as soliciting a post-dated check for purposes of threatening criminal action. Prohibits debt collectors from taking specified legal actions, such as causing unauthorized service of process. Requires a debt collector to keep at each office he maintains specified information regarding his accounts. Provides that each debt collector must disclose, clearly and accurately, to each consumer a list of information which includes the date the alleged debt was incurred and the original creditor. Sets forth civil and criminal penalties for violations of the provisions of this Act. Requires the Federal Trade Commission and the Attorney General to report periodically to Congress concerning their administration of functions delegated to them under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 17 February 1976
Increases from 36 to 45 months the period of entitlement for educational assistance for eligible veterans. Eliminates the ten-year time limitation within which such assistance must be used. (Amends 38 U.S.C. 1661; 1662)
United States · United States Congress · 11 February 1976
Establishes the Potomac National River in Maryland, Viginia, West Virginia, and the District of Columbia. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to acquire specified lands and interests in lands within the boundaries of such national river. Directs the Secretary to encourage and assist the jurisdictions in which the national river is located to plan, acquire, develop, and manage lands within and adjacent to the national river for recreation, fish and wildlife conservation, historic preservation, or similar purposes. Authorizes the Secretary to make supplemental grants to such jurisdictions for acquisition of lands and interests in lands within 2,000 feet of the banks of the Potomac River. Permits hunting on lands within the national river which are under the jurisdiction of the Secretary. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into agreements with non-Federal public bodies for the operation and management by the Secretary or such public bodies of lands within the national river in accordance with a mutually acceptable management plan. Directs the Secretary to formulate and transmit to appropriate Congressional committees within three years from the date of the enactment of this Act a plan for the development and use of lands within the national river. Includes the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park and the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park as identifiable units of the national river and stipulates that such historical parks shall continue to be administered separately in accordance with their respective enabling acts. Establishes a Potomac National River Advisory Commission to advise and consult with other Federal agencies, State agencies, local governments, and persons on matters relating to recreation, historic preservation, scenic protection, and resource conservation within and in the vicinity of the national river. Directs the Secretary to report to Congress within two years after the date of enactment of this Act recommendations as to extension of the national river from the area established by this Act to the Potomac River's source at Fairfax Stone, West Virginia, and to its mouth at the Chesapeake Bay. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary to effectuate the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1976
Amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to require that comprehensive State plans under such Act include provisions for the prevention of crimes against the elderly.
United States · United States Congress · 9 February 1976
Administrative Rulemaking Control Act - Expresses the findings of Congress that executive agencies have promulgated rules containing criminal sanctions which have often exceeded the intent of Congress. States that it is the purpose of this Act to establish a procedure whereby Congress may review specified rulemaking activities of executive agencies, thereby exercising greater control and oversight over the operations of such agencies. Requires public notice of proposed rulemaking, allowance of public participation in such rulemaking, and a public statement of the basis and purpose of any adopted rule. Provides that an administrative rule, the violation of which subjects an individual to a criminal penalty, shall take effect only: (1) if published in the Federal Register; (2) after the expiration of 30 days of continuous session of Congress after the date on which the rule was published; and (3) if neither House of Congress passes a resolution disfavoring such a rule. Sets forth procedures governing the consideration of such resolution by the Congress.
United States · United States Congress · 26 January 1976
Commends the work of Clarence M. Mitchell, Junior, in leading the fight for passage of legislation to achieve full equality for all Americans and assistance to those most in need. Reaffirms the commitment of Congress to the principles which guided our Founding Fathers.
United States · United States Congress · 17 December 1975
Provides that the terms of office of the Director of the Central Intelligence Agency and the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation shall be ten years. Provides that no individual shall hold either such office more than once and that each is subject to removal by the President.
United States · United States Congress · 4 December 1975
Provides for an independent audit of the financial condition of the District of Columbia by an auditor selected by the chairmen of the committees on the District of Columbia of the House and Senate, the chairmen of the appropriations committees of the House and Senate, and the chairman of the Council of the District of Columbia. Requires that the Council of the District of Columbia allocate funds for such audits to be conducted every three years after completion of the audit provided for by this Act. Authorizes to be appropriated $1,500,000 to carry out the first audit as provided for by this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 19 November 1975
Prohibits the unauthorized use of a motor vehicle obtained under a written rental or other leasing agreement in the District of Columbia. Provides for fines of up to $1,000 and three years imprisonment for violations of this Act.
![Official portrait of Del. Fauntroy, Walter E. [D-DC-At Large]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/f000046_200.jpg)