United States · United States Congress · 13 July 1983
States the intent of Congress that the Secretary of Labor shall not require as a condition for approval of State plans under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 that States maintain higher staffing levels to enforce such Act than the Federal Government maintains to enforce such Act.
United States · United States Congress · 11 July 1983
Amends the Social Security Amendments of 1983 to exclude from coverage under the Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance program those individuals who, on December 31, 1983, are employees of nonprofit organizations which do not have in effect a certificate under the Internal Revenue Code which waives the exemption of their employees from the Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance program.
United States · United States Congress · 30 June 1983
Patent Term Restoration Act of 1983 - Amends the patent laws to extend the terms of patents which encompass specified products or a method for using a product, any of which are subject to certain nonpatent regulatory review periods. Sets forth the terms and conditions of such extension, including a seven year limitation. Directs the Commissioner of Patents to issue to the owner of record of a patent a certificate of extension stating the fact and length of the extension and identifying the product and the use and the claim to which such extension is applicable. Makes such certificate a part of the original patent. Limits the application of such patent term extension to patents for products subject to regulation under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, the Public Health Service Act, the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, the Toxic Substances Control Act, and the Act of March 4, 1913 (relating to virus, serum, toxin, and analogous products).
United States · United States Congress · 30 June 1983
Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1983 - Enacts into law the short titles "Civil Rights Act of 1968" and "Fair Housing Act". Amends the Fair Housing Act to expand the definition of "discriminatory housing practice" to include any violation under such Act (thus codifying case law which holds that the obligation of Federal agencies to administer programs affirmatively to further the purposes of fair housing and the prohibition against interference with rights under the Act are separately actionable). Adds new definitions of "handicap", "aggrieved person", and "familial status". Excludes from the meaning of "handicap" any impairment consisting of alcohol or drug abuse which would be a direct threat to the property or safety of others. Defines "familial status" as one or more minors being domiciled with their parent or guardian. Retains the two current exemptions from the prohibition against the discriminatory sale or rental of housing which are given to: (1) an owner of three or fewer single-family houses; and (2) the owner of a dwelling consisting of four or fewer family units who also resides in such dwelling (the "Mrs. Murphy" exemption). Makes it unlawful to: (1) refuse to sell or rent to a handicapped person unless such handicap would prevent a prospective occupant from conforming to specified non-discrimination rules and practices; and (2) discriminate against a handicapped person in the conditions of sale or rental, or in the provision of related services or facilities. Includes within such discrimination a refusal to: (1) permit reasonable modifications to permit access to the premises (but only if a renter agrees to restore the premises to their original condition); and (2) make reasonable accommodations in policies, services, or facilities to afford handicapped persons equal enjoyment of the premises. States that such discrimination shall not include a refusal to: (1) make alterations at the expense of sellers, landlords, owners, or persons acting on their behalf; (2) make modifications which would unreasonably inconvenience others; and (3) allow architectural modifications which materially decrease the value of a building or alter its intended use. Prohibits discrimination against families with children. Makes it unlawful for an insurer to discriminate in the provision or terms of insurance against hazards to a dwelling because of the race, color, religion, sex, handicap, national origin or familial status of persons owning or residing in or near the dwelling. Adds handicapped persons as a protected class under other existing prohibitions on discriminatory activities. Modifies the housing financing discrimination provision to prescribe all conduct which denies or "otherwise makes unavailable" financial assistance because of race, color, religion, handicap, national origin or familial status. Includes within such prohibition persons in the business of selling, brokering, or appraising real property. States that nothing in this Act is to be construed to defeat any reasonable local, State or Federal restrictions on the maximum number of persons permitted to occupy a dwelling unit. Provides that familial status does not apply to any State or Federal programs aimed at assisting elderly persons. Establishes the Fair Housing Review Commission, composed of three members appointed by the President for staggered six year terms. Stipulates that no more than two members may be of the same political party. Directs the Commission to: (1) appoint administrative law judges and other employees as necessary to carry out its functions (2) promulgate a code of ethics to assure the independence of such judges; (3) promulgate rules of discovery for its proceedings consistent insofar as practicable with the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure; and (4) consider appeals from the proposed orders of the administrative law judges upon application of a party. Includes Federal agencies having regulatory authority over financial institutions within the executive departments and agencies which are currently required to administer their housing programs in an affirmative manner. Authorizes the Department of Housing and Urban Development to provide financial as well as technical assistance to public and private organizations seeking to remedy housing discrimination. Establishes a new administrative enforcement procedure within the Department of Housing and Urban Development in addition to the current enforcement provisions of title VIII (allowing civil actions by private parties and the Attorney General). Directs the Secretary to make an investigation of all alleged discriminatory housing practice on his or her own initiative or upon the filing of a charge by an aggrieved person within one year of the alleged discrimination. Requires the Secretary to attempt to correct the discriminatory practice by informal methods of conciliation. Requires the Secretary, if the aggrieved person and respondent consent to binding arbitration, to refer the charge to an arbitrator made available by the Community Relations Service of the Department of Justice. Continues the current authority of the Secretary to utilize discovery measures. Retains the current penalty for failing to produce information (up to a $1,000 fine and/or one year's imprisonment). Makes certain changes in the current requirements for referring charges to State or local agencies for investigation and enforcement. Specifies, with respect to the rights and remedies provided by such agencies, the elements of "substantial equivalency" which permit certification and referrals of discrimination charges. Eliminates the Secretary's authority to recall referrals in the interest of justice or to protect the rights of the parties. Prohibits further action by the Secretary unless the agency fails to act in a timely fashion (current law gives the agency 30 days to commence proceedings). Requires the Secretary and other Federal agencies to cooperate to avoid duplication of their housing discrimination authority. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into agreements to permit other agencies to carry out such responsibilities within their jurisdictions. Directs the Secretary to enter into agreements with specified Federal agencies for such purpose with respect to depository institutions. Permits an action for temporary or preliminary relief to be brought on behalf of the Secretary in accordance with rule 65 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure when the Secretary establishes that voluntary compliance is unobtainable and prompt judicial action is necessary. Permits the Secretary to file an administrative complaint or refer the matter to the Attorney General for civil action if the investigation supports a finding of reasonable cause, except with respect to matters involving land use controls, which must be referred. Specifies the hearing procedures to be utilized if an administrative complaint is issued. Permits the administrative law judge to award appropriate relief and a civil penalty of up to $10,000. Permits the filing of a petition for judicial review of a final order in an appropriate court of appeals within 60 days after entry of such order. Provides that the findings of fact shall be conclusive if supported by substantial evidence in the record considered as a whole. Authorizes the administrative law judge to assess civil penalties for noncompliance with a final administrative order. Makes certain revisions in the private right of action for aggrieved persons under the Fair Housing Act. Extends the statute of limitations from 180 days to two years. Disallows simultaneous administrative and judicial proceedings involving the same charge. Permits the Attorney General to intervene upon certification that the civil action is of general public importance. Continues the current provision permitting the appointment of counsel. Removes the existing $1,000 limit on punitive damages for willful violations. Continues the authority of the Attorney General to initiate civil actions where there is reasonable cause to believe that a pattern or practice of resistance to title VIII rights has occurred. Permits the intervention of aggrieved persons in such actions. Permits the award of costs, including reasonable attorney's fees, to prevailing parties in court and administrative proceedings (current law permits an award of attorney's fees only to prevailing parties who are financially unable to assume them). Authorizes appropriations for this Act, effective October 1, 1983.
United States · United States Congress · 29 June 1983
Soil Conservation Act of 1983 - Title I: Policy, Findings, and Definitions - States policy, findings and definitions. Title II: Program Eligibility on Highly Erodible Land - Declares that any person who produces an agricultural commodity on highly erodible land shall be ineligible with respect to such commodity for: (1) price or income support assistance; (2) a loan for the construction or purchase of a storage facility; (3) crop insurance; (4) a disaster payment; or (5) any new loan if used for a purpose which will contribute to excessive erosion of highly erodible land. Exempts from such restrictions lands and crops cultivated before enactment of this Act and any crop produced under an approved conservation system. Title III: Certified Voluntary Set-Aside - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to establish a program whereby owners and operators of cropland certify that certain crops have been planted with grass or legumes as part of a rotation pattern designed to reduce soil erosion or build soil productivity. Provides for annual renewal. Provides for the classification of croplands eligible for certification. Directs the Secretary to allow any farmer who has certified lands to designate those lands as cropland in rotation for purposes of establishing a normal crop acreage base for his farm. Allows farmers to designate certified lands as set-aside land or conserving-use acreage in a commodity stabilization program before the Secretary announces such program. Title IV: Conservation Reserve Program - Authorizes the Secretary to establish a program to assist owners and operators of erosion-prone land in making changes in land-use needed to conserve and protect soil and water resources. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into contracts to carry out these purposes. Prescribes the contents of such contracts. Requires the Secretary to provide technical assistance, to share the cost of conservation measures, and to pay land-rental fees on conserved lands to the contracting owner or operator. Provides a formula to determine the Secretary's share of conservation costs. Requires bids from owners and operators to determine land rental fees. Title V: Rules and Regulations - Requires the Secretary, within 120 days of enactment of this Act, to publish regulations to effectuate its purpose. Title VI: Additional Authority - States that any authority provided by this Act is in addition to other authorities available to the Secretary and the Commodity Credit Corporation for carrying out soil and water conservation programs. Title VII: Authorization for Appropriations - Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 29 June 1983
Expresses the sense of Congress that the Secretary of Health and Human Services should continue to review the social security disability program in order to ensure that disability benefits are not arbitrarily terminated.
United States · United States Congress · 28 June 1983
Amends the Federal Supplemental Compensation Act of 1982 to extend the Federal supplemental unemployment compensation program for an additional six months, through March 31, 1984.
United States · United States Congress · 28 June 1983
Requires any Federal court to: (1) expedite hearings on any civil matter if a party who is 65 years or older so requests; and (2) render a decision within one year after the date the action is brought. Specifies exceptions. Requires appeals or petitions for review to be expedited in the same manner.
United States · United States Congress · 23 June 1983
State Justice Institute Act of 1982 - Establishes the State Justice Institute as a tax-exempt private nonprofit corporation to further the development of improved judicial administration in State courts in the United States. Permits the Institute to be incorporated in any State or the District of Columbia. Directs the Institute to: (1) direct a national assistance program to assure persons ready access to a fair and effective system of justice; (2) foster coordination and cooperation with the Federal judiciary; (3) make recommendations concerning the proper allocation of responsibility between the State and Federal court systems; (4) promote recognition of the importance of the separation of powers doctrine to an independent judiciary; and (5) encourage education for State court judges and support personnel. Authorizes the Institute to award grants and enter into cooperative agreements or contracts to: (1) conduct research, demonstrations, or special projects relating to the purposes of this Act; (2) serve as a clearinghouse of information regarding State judicial systems; (3) participate in joint projects with other agencies, including the Federal Judicial Center; (4) evaluate the impact of programs carried out under this Act upon the quality of criminal, civil, and juvenile justice; (5) encourage judicial education; (6) serve in a consulting capacity to State and local justice systems; and (7) be responsible for the certification of national programs to improve State judicial systems. Prescribes uses and limitations on uses of grant and contract funds. Specifies restrictions on activities of the Institute. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1984 through 1986.
United States · United States Congress · 23 June 1983
Restricts payment of the penalty for late enrollment under part A (Hospital Insurance) or part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to a period equal to twice the number of years enrollment was delayed (currently, the penalty is assessed for the rest of a beneficiary's life).
United States · United States Congress · 22 June 1983
World War II Civil Liberties Redress Act - Directs the Attorney General to make redress payments to residents of the United States of Japanese, Aleut, or other ancestry who were interned, detained, or forcibly relocated by the United States during World War II. Provides that such payments shall not be considered income or receipts for purposes of Federal taxes or for determining eligibility for Federal benefits or assistance. Establishes within the Treasury the Japanese-American and Aleut Trust Fund to be administered by the Secretary of the Treasury. Establishes a board of directors responsible for making disbursements from the Fund. Provides that funds from the trust be distributed to benefit communities populated by eligible individuals for assisting in community services in education, health, housing, and cultural service. Authorizes appropriations. Requires the Attorney General and the Secretary of the Treasury to prescribe regulations as may be necessary to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 21 June 1983
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Organic Act - Title I: Declaration of Findings, Purposes, and Policies - Sets forth the findings, purposes, and policies of Congress concerning marine and atmospheric resources. Title II: Establishment; Powers; Functions - Establishes the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) as an independent agency. Provides for the principal officers, with an Administrator as the head of NOAA, and sets out the functions, responsibilities, and powers of the Administrator. Requires the recipient of a grant, loan, or other form of financial assistance from NOAA to keep records on the disposition of the funds. Grants the Administrator access to such records to determine if the funds were used in accordance with applicable law and regulations. Title III: Coordination - Requires the Administrator to consult with other Federal departments and agencies to insure that inconsistent and duplicative requirements are not imposed on regulated industries or individuals. Directs the Administrator to consult with the Secretary of State on agreements, treaties or understandings with foreign nations or international bodies concerning areas in which NOAA has domestic responsibility. Title IV: Enforcement - Sets forth the enforcement powers of NOAA's authorized officers. Authorizes the Administrator to utilize the personnel, services, and facilities of any State agency to assist with his enforcement authority. Sets forth provisions concerning the issuance of citations, the disposition of seized property and vessel penalties. Grants jurisdiction to the U.S. district courts for cases arising out of this Act. Sets out the remedies the Administrator may seek for violations of law for which he has enforcement authority. Grants to individuals the right to institute civil actions for violations of laws administered by NOAA. Title V: Miscellaneous Provisions - Transfers the functions and authority from the existing National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in the Department of Commerce to the new NOAA. Transfers personnel, property, records, and funds to the new NOAA. Permits the President to make interim appointment of officers for the NOAA until permanent officers may be appointed with the advice and consent of the Senate. Authorizes appropriations. Requires the President to submit biennial authorization requests to the Congress.
United States · United States Congress · 15 June 1983
Amends the Federal criminal code dealing with the sexual exploitation of children. Prohibits the distribution of material involving the sexual exploitation of minors even if the material is not found to be "obscene" and is transferred without sale. Increases the criminal fines for violation of this section by individuals from $10,000 to $75,000 (from $15,000 to $150,000 for a second or subsequent offense). Sets a fine of $250,000 for organizations. Provides for both criminal and civil forfeiture. Requires the Attorney General to report annually to Congress on the number of cases and convictions, and the dollar amount received in forfeiture, under this section.
United States · United States Congress · 14 June 1983
Veterans Administration Adjudication Procedure and Judicial Review Act - Title I: Adjudication Procedures - Codifies, for Veterans Administration (VA) adjudication purposes, the burden of proof and reasonable doubt standards currently provided for by VA regulation. States that a claimant has the burden of submitting sufficient evidence to justify his or her claim, and that if an approximate balance of positive and negative evidence exists regarding the merits of a claim, the VA is to resolve such doubt in favor of the claimant. States that VA subpoenas may be served either by personal delivery or by registered or certified mail. Increases the maximum size of the Board of Veterans' Appeals from 50 to 65 members. Requires the chairman of such Board to submit an annual report to the appropriate congressional committees concerning the Board's current handling of cases and projections for the subsequent fiscal year. Requires the Board to: (1) provide notice to a claimant and an opportunity for a hearing before a decision may be based on "additional official information" received after a Board decision has previously been made; and (2) make its decision exclusively on evidence and material of record in the proceeding. Removes the requirement that new material sufficient to allow the Board to reopen a previously disallowed claim be in the form of official reports. Provides that the Board's discretionary authority to reopen a claim will not be diminished by a judicial decision following an appeal as provided for by this Act. Requires the Board to mail to the claimant notice of its decision and the reasons for such decision. Provides that, upon the request of a claimant, the Board shall provide an independent advisory medical opinion when there exists substantial medical disagreement with respect to a material issue in a veteran's appeal. Sets forth new procedural rules for adjudication hearings regarding: (1) oaths, affirmations, and witness examination; (2) admissibility of evidence; (3) procedural rights of claimants; (4) disqualification of a hearing officer; (5) the record of the proceedings and the claimant's right to examine and obtain a copy of such record; and (6) the exclusiveness of veterans' adjudication procedures and rights prescribed by the Administrator. Requires the Administrator to provide at each stage of the appeal proceedings written notice to a claimant of the claimant's procedural rights. Directs the Administrator to conduct a study of two alternative claims resolution methods: (1) a new intermediate-level adjudication process; and (2) an enhanced schedule of formal Appeals Board hearings. Directs the Administrator to report to Congress on such studies. Title II: Veterans Administration Rule Making - Includes the VA's rulemaking procedures under the relevant provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act. Title III: Judicial Review - Provides for judicial review of VA decisions in the Federal court system. States with regard to jurisdiction: (1) the definition of final decision; (2) that judicial review of a final decision in a claim for benefits may be obtained in a civil action brought within 180 days of the Board's mailing of notice of its decision, and that such action shall be brought in Federal district court; (3) that the VA shall file the various materials constituting the record in a case together with its answer to the claimant's complaint; (4) that the court may render a decision on the pleadings; and (5) that the judicial review procedures established under this Act shall not apply to insurance and home loans. States, with regard to the reviewing court's scope of review, that such court: (1) shall decide questions of law and interpret constitutional, statutory, and regulatory provisions, but that questions of fact (unless unsupported by substantial evidence) will not be subject to a trial de novo; and (2) in reviewing a final decision of the VA which is adverse to a party solely because such party failed to comply with VA procedures, may only review questions concerning such procedures. Sets out provisions regarding remand, survival of actions, and appellate review. Title IV: Attorneys' Fees - Authorizes the Administrator to allow attorneys' fees above the present $10 maximum if the appealing party's claim is allowed by the VA after an initial denial. States that such fee shall be the lesser of: (1) the fee agreed upon by the party and attorney; (2) $500, unless the Administrator approves a greater amount; or (3) if the party and attorney have entered into a contingent-fee agreement, not more than 25 percent of the total of any past-due benefits awarded on the basis of such party's claim. Provides for the approval of attorneys' fees, in successful veterans' claims brought before a court, as provided for under this Act. States that such fees shall be determined by such court, and in contingent-fee agreements such fees shall not exceed 25 percent of the total of any past-due benefits awarded on the basis of such claim. Authorizes attorneys' fees of up to $750 in certain unsuccessful veterans' claims. Prohibits the VA from authorizing payment to a claimant's attorney based on past-due benefits unless such benefits are owed as of the date of the VA's or a court's award. States that such provisions regarding attorneys' fees shall only apply to claims for benefits under the laws administered by the VA and shall not apply in cases in which the VA is the plaintiff or in which other attorneys' fees statutes are otherwise controlling. Title V: Effective Dates - Sets forth the effective dates for this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 13 June 1983
Water Quality Renewal Act of 1983 - Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (also known as the Clean Water Act) to authorize appropriations for FY 1983 through 1988 for: (1) specified research, investigation, and training programs in water pollution control; (2) State and interstate pollution control programs; (3) undergraduate programs in water quality control; (4) grants for developing waste treatment management plans for areas with substantial water quality control problems; (5) water pollution control programs in agricultural areas; (6) agreements among Government agencies providing for maximum use of existing programs for water quality control; (7) grants to States for lake pollution control; and (8) carrying out such Act generally. Increases the authorization for grants for construction of waste treatment works for FY 1984 and 1985. Authorizes appropriations for such grants for FY 1986 through 1988. Revises the timetable for compliance of all pollutants with effluent limitations. Requires as new conditions for the modification of treatment requirements with respect to the discharge of pollutants from a publicly owned treatment works that an applicant for such modification demonstrate that: (1) in the case of a treatment works serving a population of 50,000 or more, there is in effect a specified pretreatment program for toxic pollutants introduced into such works for which there is no pretreatment requirement in effect; and (2) the effluent which is discharged from such works is receiving primary treatment and meets the criteria for water quality established by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency. Revises the meaning of the phrase "discharge of any pollutant into marine water." Requires that a water quality standard which is revised after January 1, 1983, maintain the designated uses of the navigable waters involved in effect on such date, except that such a standard may contain a less restrictive use if the State demonstrates that: (1) the existing designated use is not attainable because of natural background or irretrievable man-induced conditions; or (2) the application of effluent limitations needed to attain the existing designated use would result in substantial and widespread adverse economic and social impact. Requires a State to revise water quality standards to preserve the quality of those waters within the State exceeding the level necessary to support the designated use contained in existing water quality standards. Requires a State to consider the need to adopt numercial criteria in addition to other water quality criteria' with respect to specified toxic pollutants whenever such State reviews a water quality standard. Requires the maintenance and protection of water the quality of which exceeds levels necessary to support the propagation of fish and wildlife and to allow recreation in and on the water, unless a State chooses, after compliance with intergovernmental coordination and public participation requirements, to allow lower water quality because of essential economic or social development for which there is no feasible alternative. Prohibits a degradation of water quality which will interfere with or injure instream water uses. Prohibits degradation in high quality waters which constitute an outstanding national resource. Requires a State to minimize the effects of development on water quality in any case where water quality degradation is permitted. Requires the Administrator to publish in the Federal Register a list of all navigable waters in each State the water quality of which is being impaired by the discharge from specific sources of toxic pollutants. Directs the Administrator to establish an individual control strategy for each listed segment of navigable waters which shall reduce the discharge of toxic pollutants from such sources so as to allow the achievement of water quality which provides for the protection and propagation of fish, shellfish, and wildlife and provides for recreation in and on the water. Increases the civil penalties for violations of requirements with respect to water quality standards under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act. Requires the Administrator to convene a management conference whenever the attainment or maintenance of water quality in an estuary requires the control of sources of pollution in more than one State. Provides that such a management conference shall establish and provide for the implementation of a master plan which addresses the pollution problems of the estuary involved. Authorizes the Administrator to make grants to States participating in such a management conference which are equal to 55 percent of a State's cost of implementing a master plan for a fiscal year. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1984 through 1988 for such grants. Authorizes appropriations to the Administrator for FY 1984 through 1988 for: (1) administrative expenses with respect to management conferences; (2) grants for the development of master plans for estuaries; and (3) monitoring the implementation of such master plans. Prohibits the specification of a disposal site in navigable waters for the discharge of dredged or fill material unless the Secretary of the Army, acting through the Chief of Engineers, determines that the discharge of such material at such site will not have an unacceptable adverse effect on the aquatic environmental and that there is no less adverse practicable alternative to the proposed discharge. Requires that an application for a permit to discharge dredge or fill material into navigable waters at a specified disposal site be filed with the district engineer of the Corps of Engineers for the district where the discharge is to be made. Requires the district engineers to notify the Administrator, the Secretaries of the Interior and Commerce, and other appropriate Federal agency heads of any such application. Specifies the time periods within which such agencies may submit comments on such applications. Requires the district engineer to give full consideration to such comments in deciding whether to issue a permit. Requires the district engineer to notify the Administrator or the appropriate Secretary if a permit to which the Administrator or the Secretary is opposed is to be issued. Specifies the time periods within which the district engineer must publish a decision with respect to a permit application. Provides that a denial of a permit application shall be the final decision of the Secretary of the Army. Provides that a decision to issue a permit shall be the final decision of the Secretary of the Army unless the Administrator, the Secretary of the Interior, or the the Secretary of Commerce requests a review of such a decision in any case in which the Administrator or either Secretary opposed the issuance of a permit. Specifies the time periods within which the Secretary of the Army must issue a final decision following such a request. Requires the Administrator to study and report to Congress on the effects of the impoundment and discharge of waters by dams upon the quality of navigable waters.
United States · United States Congress · 9 June 1983
Decentralization Study Commission Act of 1983 - Establishes the Decentralization Study Commission which shall identify Government functions performed in the District of Columbia that may be moved to other locations within the United States without substantially impairing the performance of such functions. Directs the Commission to submit a report of its findings and legislative and administrative recommendations to the President and Congress within 20 months. Terminates the Commission 60 days after submission of such report. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 9 June 1983
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide that losses attributable to disasters determined to warrant assistance under the Disaster Relief Act of 1974 shall be allowable as an income tax deduction without regard to whether they exceed ten percent of the adjusted gross income of the taxpayer.
United States · United States Congress · 9 June 1983
Economic Growth and Retirement Act of 1983 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow certain married individuals to be eligible for the income tax deduction for retirement savings on the basis of the earned income of their spouses. Increases the maximum amount of the deduction for retirement savings to $5,000. Phases in this increased deduction over a three-year period.
United States · United States Congress · 8 June 1983
Amends the Commodity Credit Corporation Charter Act to authorize the Commodity Credit Corporation to export or aid in the development of foreign markets for fish and fish products without regard to whether the fish are harvested in aquacultural operations. Amends the Agricultural Trade Development and Assistance Act of 1954 to include fish within the definition of agricultural commodities, for purposes of that Act, without regard to whether the fish are harvested in aquacultural operations. Deletes the provision which requires that priority be given to financing the sale of food and fiber commodities under title I of such Act. Amends the Food for Peace Act of 1966 to include fish within the definition of agricultural commodities, for purposes of the export sales credit program of that Act, without regard to whether the fish are harvested in aquacultural operations.
United States · United States Congress · 8 June 1983
Pesticide Import and Export Act of 1983 - Amends the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) to specify the types of information a pesticide producer must submit to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on pesticides manufactured in and exported from the United States. Requires the Administrator of EPA to cooperate and collaborate with the Secretary of State, Secretary of Agriculture, and the Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration in identifying overseas pesticide use patterns on food crops exported to the United States. Requires the Administrator to prepare an annual report summarizing such information. Requires that information on pesticide exports be kept confidential except as it must be disclosed to comply with reporting requirements. Requires an official of an importing nation to be informed of: (1) the nature and severity of any unreasonable adverse effects on the environment identified by the Administrator in the course of considering the regulatory status of the pesticide; (2) the fact that a pesticide is not registered for use in the United States and may not be sold in the United States; and (3) the availability of regulatory and scientific documents on the pesticide. Requires notice to, and an acknowledgement by, a foreign purchaser of an acutely toxic pesticide and appropriate officials in an importing nation of any acute hazards associated wtih exposure to the pesticide. Requires such acknowledgement statement to include steps to assure accessible instructions for the safe use of the pesticide. Directs the Administrator to foster the safe use of pesticides in other countries through the international exchange of information. Directs the Department of State to pursue diplomatic efforts to obtain the agreement of other exporting countries to regulate foreign pesticide sales. Prohibits the use of a temporary tolerance established as part of an experimental use permit from covering pesticide residues on imported foodstuffs, unless such tolerance was obtained in conjunction with an experimental use permit including use of a pesticide overseas. Requires the Administrator to revoke tolerances for residues associated with suspended or canceled uses of a pesticide. Authorizes the Administrator, in the case of a pesticide that is voluntarily withdrawn, to revoke a tolerance and establish a residue action level if the Administrator determines that the pesticide residue will unavoidably persist in the environment. Prohibits the Administrator from making available for public inspection any information obtained from another country or international organization if: (1) the information was obtained on conditions that it not be disclosed; (2) the information is not otherwise available; and (3) the foreign government or international organization continues to demand that the documents or information not be made available for public inspection. Authorizes the Administrator to disclose to foreign governments or international organizations certain information as long as an agreement is reached that such information will be disclosed only under specified circumstances.
United States · United States Congress · 7 June 1983
National Summit Conference on Education Act of 1983 - Authorizes appropriations to the Department of Education for conducting a National Summit Conference on Education. Sets forth provisions for appointment of participants to the Conference. Directs the Conference to develop recommendations in response to the findings of the National Commission on Excellence in Education and relating to specified areas of educational policy. Directs the Conference to transmit its recommendations to the President, the Congress, and State Governors by January 15, 1984.
United States · United States Congress · 6 June 1983
Amends the Civil Rights Act of 1957 to allow appointees to the Commission on Civil Rights to serve for a term of six years. Provides that a Commission member may only be removed by the President for neglect of duty or malfeasance in office. Extends the life of the Commission 15 years. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 26 May 1983
Modern Farm Animal Practices Act - Establishes the Commission on Modern Farm Animal Practices to investigate and report on all aspects of U.S. intensive farm animal husbandry, including human health effects, and related ethical, scientific, and economic considerations. Sets forth membership and operating provisions. Requires such report to be submitted within two years of the Commission's first meeting to each House of Congress, the Department of Agriculture, and to the Food and Drug Administration. Terminates the Commission 60 days after submitting such report.
United States · United States Congress · 25 May 1983
Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a program of grants to: (1) identify women who received diethylstilbestrol (DES) while pregnant and their children; (2) establish a voluntary registry of such women and children; (3) provide them with periodic cancer screening; and (4) provide health personnel with information respecting the health hazards of such drug.
United States · United States Congress · 25 May 1983
Industrial Transition Act - Establishes the Commission on the Transition of Industry in Our Future Economy. Directs the Commission to analyze the industrial system of the United States and the activities necessary to ensure an effective transition of such system to the requirements of the future economy. Requires that such analysis include an examination of: (1) the industrial conditions required for sufficient national defense; (2) the need for Federal financial assistance, including tax credits, to ensure the modernization of troubled industries; and (3) approaches to public and private sector cooperation in assisting in the transition from an economy based on manufacturing to an economy based on high technology and the provision of services. Requires the Commission to report its findings and recommendations concerning such analysis to Congress within one year after its first meeting. Terminates the Commission upon submission of such report. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 24 May 1983
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to deny property used by governments, tax-exempt foreign individuals, and other tax-exempt entities accelerated depreciation deductions. Requires that any deductions for depreciation of such property be calculated according to the straight line method. Exempts from such limitation short-term or casual leases of property and property used in an unrelated trade or business. Denies the investment tax credit for property used by foreign governments and other foreign persons. Denies the investment tax credit for rehabilitation expenditures for property which is financed by the proceeds of industrial development bonds. States that the provisions of this Act shall be effective for property placed in service after May 23, 1983, with an exception for binding contracts and mass commuting vehicles financed by tax-exempt securities.
United States · United States Congress · 24 May 1983
United States Caribbean Possessions Act - Title I: Eastern Caribbean Regional Development Fund - Lists countries which the President shall consider in designating beneficiary countries for purposes of this title. Prohibits the President from designating a country a beneficiary country: (1) if such country is a communist country; (2) if the country has taken certain expropriating actions against property owned by U.S. citizens; (3) if the country fails to act in good faith with respect to arbitral awards involving U.S. citizens or companies; (4) if the country affords preferential treatment to a developed country other than the United States which adversely affects U.S. commerce unless the President receives certain assurances; (5) if a government-owned entity in such country engages in the broadcast of copyrighted material belonging to U.S. copyright owners without their express consent; and (6) unless such country is party to a treaty regarding the extradition of U.S. citizens. Lists factors the President shall take into account in determining whether to designate a country a beneficiary country. Prohibits the President from terminating the designation of a country as a beneficiary country unless, at least 60 days before the termination, the President has notified the Congress and the beneficiary country of such determination. Directs the President to withdraw or suspend the designation of a country as a beneficiary country if, because of changed circumstances, the country would be barred from designation as a beneficiary country. Establishes in the Treasury the Eastern Caribbean Regional Development Fund. Appropriates to the Fund the amount of money collected from: (1) the import duties on articles entered from beneficiary countries; and (2) the taxes on rum imported into the United States from beneficiary countries. Authorizes the Administrator of the Fund to allocate and distribute the moneys in the Fund to island beneficiary countries. Sets forth the method of allocation. Title II: Tax and Tariff Provisions - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to require that if the amount of taxes collected on rum imported into the United States from beneficiary countries exceeds the amount needed in the Eastern Caribbean Regional Development Fund the excess shall be covered into the treasuries of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. Prohibits granting duty-free treatment to bulk rum manufactured outside the United States, its territories, or possessions.
United States · United States Congress · 23 May 1983
Amends the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to: (1) remove the minimum wage floor for handicapped workers; and (2) link such workers' wages with worker productivity.
United States · United States Congress · 23 May 1983
Sports Competition Act of 1983 - Amends the Clayton Act to include the interstate business of any organized professional sport, including baseball, as trade or commerce subject to the antitrust laws.
United States · United States Congress · 19 May 1983
Renewable Energy Incentive Act of 1983 - Title I: Certain Renewable Energy Source Incentives - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend for five years from 1985 to 1990 the investment tax credit for: (1) solar, wind, or geothermal property; (2) ocean thermal property; (3) hydroelectric generating property; and (4) biomass property. Allows an investment tax credit for cogeneration energy property until 1990. Increases the energy percentage for solar, wind, or geothermal energy and ocean thermal property from 15 percent to 25 percent. Increases the energy percentage for hydroelectric generating property from 11 percent to 15 percent. Allows an energy percentage of ten percent for cogeneration property. Extends the residential energy income tax credit from 1985 to 1990. Allows the regular investment tax credit for energy property which is considered to be a structural component of a building and is used as air or water heating equipment for such building. Allows an investment tax credit until 1995 for affirmative commitments made for projects concerning: (1) solar, wind, or geothermal property; (2) ocean thermal property; (3) biomass property; and (4) cogeneration property. Extends for seven years from 1988 to 1995 the investment tax credit for affirmative commitments made for certain hydroelectric generating property. Increases from two to five the number of possible sites for ocean thermal property. Allows an investment tax credit for ocean thermal property which produces energy used in a possession of the United States. (Present law requires that such energy be used in the continental United States.) Title II: Biomass Incentive - Treates as biomass property methane-containing gas produced by anaerobic digestion from nonfossil waste materials. Title III: Effective Date - Sets forth the effective date of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 19 May 1983
Supplemental Security Income Mental Disability Determinations Reform Act of 1983 - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to revise the criteria under the category "Mental Disorders" in the "Listing of Impairments" in the Code of Federal Regulations, to the extent such criteria are applicable to individuals seeking or receiving benefits based on disability under the Supplemental Security Income program (title XVI of the Social Security Act). Directs the Secretary to also revise the methods of procedures used under such program for assessing the residual functional capacity of individuals having mental impairments. Requires the revised listings and residual functional capacity assessments to be designed to realistically evaluate the ability of a mentally impaired individual to engage in substantial gainful activity in a competitive workplace environment. Directs the Secretary to appoint a panel of outside experts to make recommendations with respect to such revisions. Prohibits continuing eligibility reviews with respect to mental impairment until the revisions are completed. Requires, under title XVI, that in any case in which an individual claims to be under a disability by reason of a mental impairment, the determination shall be made only after the Secretary has demonstrated that a qualified psychiatrist or psychologist has completed the medical portion of the sequential evaluation and residual functional capacity assessment. Prohibits the authorization of appropriations for SSI periodic eligibility reviews for individuals whose claims to disability benefits are based on mental impairment, except to the extent that such funds are specifically authorized for such reviews. Makes permanent provisions of title XVI which provide SSI benefits for individuals who perform substantial gainful activity despite a severe medical impairment. Makes permanent provisions which provide for the continued payment of SSI or disability benefits (title II of such Act) during appeal of a disability determination. Directs the Secretary to: (1) provide assistance to disabled individuals in complying with requirements and procedures under titles II and XVI; and (2) assure that disabled individuals eligible for or receiving benefits under title II are informed of available SSI benefits. Requires hearings and proceedings related to a disabled individual under the SSI program to be held at an accessible location.
United States · United States Congress · 18 May 1983
Social Security Nonprofit Organization Act of 1983 - Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act and the Internal Revenue Code to exclude from "employment" for purposes of the Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance program service performed by individuals who have been continuously employed by nonprofit organizations since December 31, 1983. (Under current law, mandatory coverage under the Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance program is extended to all employees of nonprofit organizations for service performed after December 31, 1983.) Revises the method of payment of the old age, survivors and disability insurance taxes and hospital insurance taxes on employees and employers for retroactive coverage of nonprofit organizations.
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