United States · United States Congress · 2 October 1980
Alaska Lands Amendments Act - Title I: Findings and Purposes - Declares it the purpose of this Act to amend the provisions of the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act so as: (1) to preserve the geological, scientific, wilderness, cultural, recreational, and wildlife values of remaining Federal lands in Alaska; and (2) to provide authorities and guidelines for the administration of the provisions of the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act. Title II - Amends the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act to increase the acreage of: (1) West Chichagof-Yakobi Wilderness; (2) Misty Fjords National Monument Wilderness; (3) Russel Fjord Wilderness; (4) Renali Wilderness; (5) Gates of the Artic Wilderness; (6) Glacier Bay Wilderness; (7) Katmai Wilderness; (8) Artic Wildlife Refuge Wilderness; (9) Koyukak Wilderness; (10) Yukon Wilderness; (11) Yukon Flats National Wildlife Refuge; and (12) Artic National Wildlife Refuge. Decreases the acreage of: (1) Wrangell-Saint Elicis Wilderness; (2) Wrangell-Saint Elias National Park; and (3) Lake Clark National Preserve. Increases the acreage of Wrangell-Saint Elias National Preserve and Lake Clark National Preserve. Establishes: (1) Yukon Charley Wilderness; (2) Devilnaw Wilderness; (3) Copper River Wilderness; (4) Copper River National Wildlife Refuge; and (5) Tetlin Wilderness. Establishes the Teshekpuk National Wildlife Refuge and the Utukok National Wildlife Refuge with a program for the issuance of exploration permits and lease sales. Increases the acreage of Wild and Scenic River Corridors and designates portions of the Yukon (Ramparts section) as a scenic river area. Designates certain planning areas within the Tongass National Forest. Provides that no timber within designated planning areas be sold except pursuant to the Tongass land management plan. Provides that all National Forest System lands in specified planning areas be withdrawn from location, entry, and patent under the mining laws, subject to valid existing rights. Requires the Secretary of Agriculutre to report to Congress findings as to whether specified planning areas should be: (A) designated a wilderness; (B) continued in planning status; or (C) made available for multiple uses. Exempts specified planning areas from the second roadless area review and evaluation. Provides that funds necessary to maintain the timber supply from the Tongass National Forest shall be drawn from the total sums collected as receipts from oil, gas, timber and coal which are deposited in the Treasury and credited as miscellaneous receipts. Requires the Secretary of Agriculture to designate alternative lands of equal or greater timber value other than within Admiralty Island and Misty Fjords National Monuments in the satisfaction of the rights of the Natives of Sitka. Requires the Secretary of Agriculture to permit limited development within Misty Fjords National Monument to the extent U.S. Borax and Chemical is presently entitled. Provides that Monument McKinley shall retain its name. Removes Stiese National Conservation Area from coverage of the Act. Places certain restrictions on state selections and conveyances. Sets forth procedures for the conveyance of public lands to certain Village Corporations and Regional Corporations. Permits local residents and others aggrieved by a failure of the State or Federal government to provide for the priority for subsistence uses to file a civil action in the Federal Court for the District of Alaska. Provides that nothing in the Act shall preclude the renewal or continuation of valid leases or permits for cabins, homesites or similar structures. Extends the length of time required for the Secretary to complete certain studies and reports to the Congress. Provides that the executive may not withdraw more than 5,000 acres without the approval of the Congress by joint resolution within one year of notice of such withdrawal. Requires the Secretary to establish an oil and gas leasing program on public lands not included in the Federal North Slope Oil and Gas leasing program or the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska unless prohibited by applicable law. Permits the Secretary to refuse to renew a permit for an existing cabin if the Secretary determines that such renewal would not be in the public interest. Prohibits any fees from being charged for entrance or admission to any unit of the National Park System located in Alaska. Makes additional technical, conforming and perfecting amendments.
United States · United States Congress · 10 September 1980
Great Lakes Maritime Act of 1980 - Title I: Water Resources Project Authorization - Authorizes the Secretary of the Army, through the Chief of Engineers, to extend the navigation season on Lakes Superior, Huron, Michigan, and Erie and their interconnecting navigation channels in accordance with specified recommendations of the Corps of Engineers. Authorizes appropriations for such purpose. Directs the Secretary, in cooperation with other departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the United States, and with State and local governments, to determine the extent of shoreline damage in the United States causally related to the regulation of the waters of Lake Superior by the International Joint Commission - United States and Canada. Requires that a report on such findings be made to Congress before September 30, 1982. Title II: Equitable Service for Foreign Trade of Great Lakes Ports - Amends the Merchant Marine Act, 1936, to direct the Secretary of Commerce to establish trade routes, services, or lines that take into account the seasonal closure of the Saint Lawrence Seaway and that provide for alternate shipping routes via a different range of ports during such closure. Title III: Debt Extension for Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation - Amends the provisions of law which created the Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation to extend from 50 years to 80 years the period for repayment of revenue bonds issued by the Corporation to the Secretary of the Treasury. Directs the Corporation and the Secretary to make all revenue bonds outstanding on the effective date of this Act payable in equal annual amounts over the remainder of the 80 year period established by this Act. Title IV: Regulation of Common Carrriers by Water - Amends the Shipping Act, 1916, to redefine the term "common carrier by water in foreign commerce" to include persons engaged as common carriers in specified ocean transportation of property who: (1) advertise, solicit, or arrange, within the United States, for such transportation; or (2) issue or deliver ocean or through intermodal bills of lading or other contracts of afreightment for such transportation. Directs that specified contracts or agreements be filed with the Federal Maritime Commission within 30 days of the date of enactment of this Act. Directs such common carriers by water to file their tariffs with the Commission within 30 days of the date of enactment of this Act. Sets forth the effective dates of such tariffs.
United States · United States Congress · 4 September 1980
Establishes the United States Holocaust Memorial Council which shall: (1) provide and encourage appropriate ways for the Nation to observe the Days of Remembrance to commemorate the holocaust; (2) plan, erect, and oversee the operation of a memorial museum to the victims of the holocaust; and (3) develop a plan for carrying out the recommendations of the report submitted to the President on September 27, 1979, by the President's Commission on the Holocaust. Authorizes the Council to receive public land in the District of Columbia on which it may erect the memorial. Terminates the Council's authority to construct a memorial if the erection of the memorial has not commenced within five years of enactment of this Act and sufficient funds to ensure completion of the memorial have not been certified to be available. Authorizes appropriations to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 26 August 1980
Extends from 50 years to 80 years the period for repayment of revenue bonds issued by the Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation (the Corporation) to the Secretary of the Treasury. Directs the Corporation and the Secretary to make all revenue bonds outstanding on the effective date of this Act payable in equal annual amounts over the remainder of the 80 year period established by this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 20 August 1980
Declares that the people of Poland should be allowed to settle their own affairs, including the formation of independent trade unions and the right to strike, without foreign interference.
United States · United States Congress · 23 July 1980
Northern Pacific Halibut Act of 1980 - Provides for U.S. representation on the International Pacific Halibut Commission. Authorizes the Secretary of State, with the concurrence of the Secretary of Commerce, to accept or reject certain Commission recommendations. Gives the Secretary of Commerce general responsibility for carrying out the Halibut convention between the United States and Canada and this Act. Authorizes Federal agencies to cooperate with the Commission on scientific and other programs. Makes it unlawful to: (1) violate the Convention or this Act; (2) interfere with enforcement officials; (3) resist or interfere with arrests or detentions; (4) sell or purchase fish taken in violation of the Convention and this Act; or (5) fish for halibut without a valid permit. Sets forth civil and criminal penalties, including forfeiture of the fishing vessel and fish, for violations of such offenses. Provides for enforcement by the Secretary of Commerce and the department in which the Coast Guard is operating. Sets forth the enforcement authority of officers. Requires Canadian fishing vessels to obtain a valid permit to fish for halibut in the U.S. fishery conservation zone. Sets forth application procedures for such permits. Repeals the Northern Pacific Halibut Act of 1937 after enactment of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 23 July 1980
Amends the Fishery Conservation and Management Act of 1976 to include the Northern Mariana Islands within the fishery management program of the United States. Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to issue a recreational tournament permit for each recreational fishing vessel of a foreign nation which wishes to engage in fishing in a recreational fishing tournament conducted in the fishery conservation zone. Requires the owner or operator of the vessel for which such permit is issued to prominently display such permit and show it, upon request, to any officer authorized to enforce the provisions of such Act. Authorizes the Secretary to establish, require the payment of, and collect fees for such permits. Includes the Northern Mariana Islands within the Western Pacific Fishery Management Council. Increases the membership of such Council to 13. Changes to May 1 the date by which each fishery management council must submit to the Secretary a report on the council's activities during the immediately preceding calendar year. Authorizes the Secretary to require persons to submit data which would be pertinent to a fishery and which the Secretary determines are necessary and appropriate for the preparation of a preliminary fishery management plan or a fishery management plan for that fishery. Declares that any such statistics submitted to the Secretary shall be confidential and shall not be disclosed except when required under court order. Extends to 90 days the length of time any emergency regulation promulgated by the Secretary which changes any existing fishery management plan may remain in effect. Changes to July 1 the date by which the Secretary shall report to the Congress and the President concerning all activities of the councils and the Secretary with respect to fishery management. Eliminates imprisonment as a punishment for a person guilty of fishing without a valid permit in a foreign vessel. Permits the Secretary, in the case of any perishable seized fish, to dispose of such fish in a manner prescribed by regulations of the Secretary or the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating. Requires the Secretary and the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating to report, annually rather than semiannually, to specified congressional committees on the degree and extent of known and estimated compliance with the provisions of such Act. Authorizes such Secretaries to seize the proceeds of the sale of any fish taken or retained in violation of any provisions of such Act. Directs the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating to cause the vessel M/V OLWOL, owned by the government of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands and in the custody of the government of the Northern Mariana Islands, to be documented as a vessel of the United States upon compliance with the usual requirements.
United States · United States Congress · 26 June 1980
Presidential Nomination Commission Resolution - Establishes the Commission on Presidential Nominations to make an investigation regarding the presidential nominating process. Directs the Commission to report to the President and Congress respecting such investigation, including recommendations for the 1984 presidential elections. States that the Commission shall cease to exist 60 days after submitting such report. Sets forth the powers of such Commission and related administrative provisions.
United States · United States Congress · 19 June 1980
Expresses the sense of Congress regarding the domestic automotive and truck industry. Declares it to be a goal of the United States to achieve technological superiority in the world automobile and truck industry. Advocates changes in economic, fiscal, and import policies in order to create adequate capital and produce a more favorable climate for the domestic automobile and truck industry.
United States · United States Congress · 29 May 1980
Extends the congratulations of the House of Representatives to members of the 1980 handicapped Olympic team and recognizes specified organizations for their efforts in producing the second winter Olympics for the physically handicapped.
United States · United States Congress · 6 May 1980
Housing and Community Development Act of 1980 - Title I: Community and Neighborhood Development and Conservation - Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 to specify for fiscal years 1981, 1982, and 1983 that no data derived from the 1980 Decennial Census, except those relating to population and poverty, shall be taken into account for purposes of the allocation of funds to metropolitan areas. Prohibits, for fiscal years 1981, 1982, and 1983, any revision of the criteria for establishing a metropolitan area or defining a central city of such an area published after January 1, 1980, to be taken into account for purposes of this title, except in the case of any area or city which would newly qualify as a metropolitan area or a central city of such an area. Specifies that, with respect to grants for State, tribal, and local community development programs, beginning in fiscal year 1981, the population of any unit of general local government which is included in that of an urban county shall be included in the population of such urban county for three program years beginning with the program year in which its population was first so included. Requires any county seeking qualification as an urban county, including any urban county seeking to continue such qualification, to notify each unit of general local government, which is included therein and is eligible to elect to have its population excluded from that of an urban county, of its opportunity to make such an election. Declares that the Congress finds that the Nation's cities, towns, and smaller urban communities face critical social, economic, and environmental problems arising in significant measure from increasing energy costs which have seriously undermined the quality and overall effectiveness of local community and housing development activities. Requires concerted action by Federal, State, and local governments to address the economic and social hardships borne by communities as a consequence of scarce fuel supplies. Allows grants for State and local community development programs to be available for the conservation of the Nation's scarce energy resources, improvement of energy efficiency, and the provision of alternative and renewable energy sources of supply. Allows the applicant, at the discretion of the applicant, when applying for such grants, to include as part of the program summary, formulation, and description as required by such Act, comparable information with respect to the applicant's energy conservation and renewable energy resource needs and objectives. Makes activities necessary to the development of a comprehensive community-wide energy use strategy eligible for assistance under the community development program. Authorizes the appropriation of funds for the purpose of making grants to States and units of local government to help finance community development programs for fiscal years 1981 through 1983. Authorizes funds for fiscal years 1981 through 1983 for the purpose of assisting severely distressed cities that require supplemental grant assistance in order to alleviate excessive deterioration through neighborhood reclamation and community revitalization. Limits amounts of appropriated funds which may be used to aid metropolitan cities, urban counties, and other units of local government within metropolitan areas to meet their basic grant needs. Eliminates hold-harmless entitlements. Declares that funds which are to be reallocated, after a determination by the Secretary that they are not likely to be fully obligated during a community development program period, shall be reallocated first to other units of general local government in the metropolitan area to which the funds were originally allocated, second, in any metropolitan area in the same State, and third, in any other metropolitan area. Requires an applicant for a grant under the community development program to take into account the effect of such activities on the involuntary displacement of low- and moderate-income persons and takes into account appropriate environmental factors. Requires the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to continue the study on involuntary displacement conducted under the Housing and Community Development Amendments of 1978 and to transmit, not later than March 30, 1981, a report to Congress which shall contain: (1) data collected since the initial report; and (2) further recommendations on minimizing involuntary displacement and alleviating problems caused by such displacement. Amends the Housing Act of 1964 to define the terms "congregate housing" as residential property in which some or all of the dwelling units do not contain kitchen or bathroom facilities, and the term "single-room occupancy housing" to mean residential property in which some or all of the dwelling units do not contain bathroom or kitchen facilities. Extends the rehabilitation loan program under such Act to include congregate housing and single-room occupancy housing, and to authorize appropriations for fiscal years 1980 and 1981 for community and neighborhood development and conservation programs. Authorizes appropriations, through fiscal year 1982, for the neighborhood self-help development programs under the Housing and Community Development Amendments of 1978. Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to reimburse the Veterans Administration for properties transferred to urban homesteading programs. Requires the Secretary, not later than January 1, 1983, to report to the Congress with respect to the adequacy, effectiveness, and equity of the formula used for the allocation of funds for community development programs under the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, with specific analysis and recommendations concerning the manner in which such formula is or could be affected by the data derived from the 1980 decennial census. Title II: Housing Assistance Programs - Authorizes additional authority for the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to enter into contracts for annual contributions under the United States Housing Act of 1937, after October 1, 1980, for low-income housing projects. Directs the Secretary to enter into only such new contracts for preliminary loans as are consistent with the number of dwelling units for which contracts for annual contributions may be entered into. Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to provide assistance to improve the physical condition of existing public housing projects, and to upgrade the management and operation of such projects, in order to assure that that such projects continue to be available to serve low-income families. Allows the Secretary to make available and contract to make available financial assistance to public housing agencies for the purpose of improving the physical condition of existing low-rent public housing projects and for upgrading the management and operation of such projects to the extent necessary to maintain such physical improvements. Prohibits such assistance from being made unless the Secretary has approved an application from the public housing agency which has been developed in consultation with appropriate local officials and with tenants of such housing projects. Sets forth the information required in such application. Declares that in making such assistance the Secretary shall give preference to public housing agencies which: (1) request assistance for projects having conditions which threaten the health or safety of the tenants or have a significant number of vacant, substandard units; and (2) which have demonstrated a capability of carrying out the activities proposed in the plan submitted and approved by the Secretary. Provides for assistance to any public housing agency in an amount which the Secretary determines is necessary to meet emergency or special purpose needs. Allows the Secretary to make, and contract to make, periodic interest reduction payments on behalf of the owner of a multifamily rental project in order to encourage the construction of new or substantially rehabilitated multifamily rental housing projects designed for families with incomes which do not exceed 150 percent of the median income of the area in which the project is located. Permits such payments to be made for a period of not more than 30 years to mortgagees holding mortgages secured by such project. Requires the Secretary to establish procedures for review of incomes of tenants at intervals of two years. Requires the Secretary, if as a result of such review it is determined that there are tenants in the project whose incomes exceed 150 percent of the median income for the area, to provide that rental payments made by each such tenant shall increase over a three-year period so that at the end of such period each such tenant will be paying the amount of rent which would be charged with respect to the tenant's dwelling unit if payments were not made with respect to the project. Reduces the amounts payable by the Secretary with respect to the project by any amount received by the owner as a result of such increased rental payments. Directs the Secretary, in making such rental assistance, to give a preference to projects which have or will receive financial contributions from a State or local government. Authorizes appropriations through fiscal year 1982 for operating assistance for troubled multifamily housing projects under the Housing and Community Development Amendments of 1978. Amends the National Housing Act to direct the Secretary to utilize amounts credited to the rental housing assistance fund for the sole purpose of carrying out assistance for troubled multifamily housing projects through September 30, 1981. Increases the allowable maximum amount for mortgage assistance payments under the National Housing Act. Allows the Secretary, under the mortgage insurance program, to insure a mortgage involving a principal obligation which exceeds, by not more than ten percent, the maximum limits, if such mortgage relates to a dwelling to be occupied by a physically handicapped person. Allows the Secretary, in order to prevent inflationary conditions and related governmental actions from having a severely disproportionate effect on the housing industry, to make and contract to make periodic assistance payments to mortgagees or other lenders on behalf of homeowners (including the owners of mobile homes). States that not more than 75 percent of such authority may be so utilized. Terminates such authority on September 30, 1981, or at such earlier date as the Secretary may deem appropriate. Sets forth the eligibility requirements for such assistance payments. Specifies that assistance payments to a mortgagee by the Secretary on behalf of a homeowner shall be made only during such time as the homeowner shall continue to occupy the property which secures the mortgage or loan. Permits the Secretary to insure, upon application by the mortgagee, a mortgage executed by a mortgagor who meets the eligibility requirements for assistance payments. Sets forth the eligibility requirements for such insurance. Amends the Housing and Community Development Amendments of 1978 to require a public housing agency or nonprofit corporation applying for assistance to provide congregate services: (1) to elderly residents to consult with the Area Agency on Aging; and (2) to nonelderly handicapped residents to consult with the appropriate agency. Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to provide funds to cover the administrative cost of public housing for Indians and Alaskan Natives. Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to authorize the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to enter into contracts for assistance with respect to newly constructed or substantially rehabilitated public housing projects. Requires the installation of a passive or active solar energy system in any such project unless the Secretary determines that such installation would not be cost effective over the estimated life of the system. Title III: Program Amendments and Extensions - Extends through September 30, 1981, the authority of the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to insure mortgages or loans under certain HUD mortgage or loan insurance programs under the National Housing Act and to set interest rates for insured mortgage loans. Extends until October 1, 1981, the authority of the Government National Mortgage Association to enter into new commitments to purchase mortgages under the interim mortgage purchase authority of the National Housing Act, as amended by the Emergency Home Purchase Assistance Act of 1974. Authorizes appropriations for research and demonstration housing projects through fiscal year 1981. Amends the National Housing Act to authorize appropriations to cover losses sustained by the General Insurance Fund. Amends the National Housing Act to specify that neither the holder of a mortgage insured under such Act and covering five or more dwelling units, nor the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development as insurer or holder of such a mortgage insured or formerly insured under such Act, shall be precluded, limited, or delayed in the exercise of any rights or remedies provided in the mortgage or in any contract or agreement governing the maintenance or operation of the property secured by the mortgage, by the provisions of any Federal law, except Federal law enacted expressly in limitation. Amends the National Housing Act to increase the mortgage purchase authority of the Government National Mortgage Association. Increases, by up to 20 percent, the amounts which may be insured under the National Housing Act for multifamily and institutional projects if such increase is necessary to account for the increased cost of the project due to the installation of a solar energy system. Requires a mortgage, in order to be eligible for mortgage insurance under the National Housing Act, to have a period of not less than ten years to run beyond the maturity date of the mortgage. Makes mortgaged property located where concentrated housing, physical development, and public service activities are being or will be carried out in a coordinated manner, pursuant to a locally developed strategy for neighborhood improvement, conservation, or preservation, eligible for rehabilitation and neighborhood conservation housing insurance under the National Housing Act. Authorizes the Secretary, as an alternative to the acquisition of an insured mortgage to avoid foreclosure, to make all or part of the monthly payments due on an insured mortgage of a one to four family residence necessary to avoid default caused by circumstances beyond the mortgagor's control. Stipulates that such payments may be provided for a period of up to 18 months which may be extended for an additional 18 months at the discretion of the Secretary. Requires the Secretary to provide home ownership counseling to persons receiving such assistance. Requires the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, by March 15 of every other year beginning with calendar year 1981, to report to Congress concerning housing production goals for the current year and set forth general objectives for such activity during the next year. Declares that the land transferred by the city of Springfield, Illinois, to the United States Department of the Interior for the Lincoln Home National Historic Site shall be deemed to have been made in accordance with the provisions of the Housing Act of 1961 and any other law and with any regulations or other requirements in implementation thereof. Amends the Energy Conservation Standards for New Buildings Act of 1976 to extend until August 1, 1982 the deadline for energy conservation standards for new buildings. Amends the Federal National Mortgage Association Charter Act to limit mortgage amounts which may be purchased under certain secondary financing programs. Amends the National Housing Act to provide supplementary loans for multifamily housing projects if meters are purchased or installed in connection with other energy conserving improvements or with a solar energy system or the project meets minimum standards of energy conservation as established by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. Increases the mortgage limits in the case of property upon which there is located one to four family dwelling. Increases the limit on loans for mobile homes and lots with respect to credit insurance of financial institutions. Amends the Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation Act to authorize appropriations through fiscal year 1981 for the Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation. Requires the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to study the feasibility of utilizing manufactured and other appropriate types of housing in carrying out housing programs for Indians and Alaskan Natives. Amends the Federal National Mortgage Association Charter Act to authorize the corporation to purchase, service, sell, lend on the security of, and otherwise deal in loans and advances of credit secured by mortgages or other liens against mobile homes. Amends the National Housing Act to direct the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, in connection with a loan or mortgage insurance program established under such Act, to require that payment of such premiums be made promptly upon their receipt from the borrower. Stipulates that the Secretary may approve payment of such premiums within 12 months of such receipt if the financial institution, mortgagee, or agent thereof pays interest, at a rate specified by the Secretary, to the insurance fund for the period beginning 20 days after receipt from the borrower and ending upon payment of the premiums to the Federal government. Title IV: Planning Assistance - Declares that the following are national policy objectives with respect to housing under the Housing Act of 1954: (1) the conservation and improvement of existing communities; (2) an increase in housing and employment opportunities and choices; and (3) the promotion of orderly and efficient growth and development of communities, regions, and States, taking into consideration the necessity of conserving energy. Declares that it is the purpose of this title to help achieve these objectives by: (1) encouraging the joint efforts of State and local governments and areawide planning organizations in developing State and areawide strategies; and (2) assuring that strategies developed pursuant to this section will lead to implementation activities by States, areawide planning organizations, and local governments. Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to contract to make, and to make, grants approved in accordance with the provisions set forth in this section to: (1) States, for statewide activities; (2) States, for the provision of assistance to metropolitan areawide planning organizations, nonmetropolitan areawide planning organizations, units of general local government, counties, other than urban counties, and any group of adjacent units of general local government having a total population of less than 50,000; (3) area-wide planning organizations; (4) units of general purpose local government; (5) urban and rural counties; (6) Indian tribes; and (7) the Virgin Islands, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa, and the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands. Specifies that such grants shall not exceed two-thirds of the estimated cost of the work for which the grant is made. Sets forth the information to be included in the applications for such grants and requires such applications to meet such requirements as the Secretary may prescribe by regulations. Requires such applications to set forth a strategy statement which identifies policies and programs over at least a three-year period which address the major issues and problems of the applicant's jurisdiction. Requires the Secretary to establish, by regulation, criteria for the evaluation and approval of strategy statements and applications for grants and for the awarding of such grants. Requires each State and other entity receiving assistance directly from the Secretary for actions or activities being carried out to submit to the Secretary, each year, a performance report concerning such actions and activities. Requires the Secretary, on an annual basis, to make such reviews and audits as may be necessary or appropriate to determine whether a recipient of funds has carried out actions and activities substantially as described in its application. Allows the Secretary to adjust, reduce, or withdraw grant funds, or take other action as appropriate in accordance with such reviews and audits. Specifies that a strategy statement approved by the Secretary shall remain in effect for a maximum of three years following the date of its approval. Title V: Rural Housing - Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1981 for the following rural housing programs administered by the Secretary of Agriculture subject to approval in appropriation Acts: (1) low and moderate income or elderly rental and cooperative housing assistance; (2) insurance of loans for housing and related facilities for domestic farm labor; and (3) advances from the escrow account for taxes, insurance, and other expenses. Authorizes appropriations for: (1) payments on notes and obligations issued by the Secretary for the purpose of making direct loans; (2) loans and grants for repairs and improvements to rural dwellings; (3) financial assistance to provide low- rent housing for domestic farm labor; (4) loans and loan insurance for the purchase of condominiums in rural areas; and (5) sums necessary for the Secretary to administer specified Federal housing program for lower income families. Repeals the ceiling on the aggregate loan principal which may be insured in a single fiscal year for housing and related facilities for domestic farm labor. Limits the amount of contract authority for home ownership subsidies in fiscal years 1980 and 1981. Prohibits such assistance in any fiscal year after 1980. Authorizes appropriations for mutual and self-help housing programs for fiscal year 1981. Requires such amounts appropriated, together with principal collections from loans made under appropriations in any previous fiscal year, to be deposited in the Self-Help Housing Land Development Fund, which shall be available as a revolving fund for making loans under the mutual and self-help housing programs. Allows the Secretary to enter into rental assistance contracts with respect to the fiscal year 1981. Defines the terms "Indian tribe", "rural resident", and "adequate dwelling" for the purposes of Federal rural housing programs. Makes persons who reside in reservations or villages of Indian tribes eligible for assistance under the Federal rural housing program. Applies energy conservation standards to homes acquired and sold by the Farmers' Home Administration. Prohibits the Secretary from approving any rent increases in specified projects which are assisted under such Act unless the project owner is receiving, or has applied for rental assistance payments under the United States Housing Act of 1937. Permits the Secretary to make and insure loans to consumer cooperatives to enable such cooperatives to finance the transfer of membership in the cooperative upon such terms and conditions as low- and moderate-income persons can reasonably afford. Specifies that a loan made to a consumer cooperative for cooperative housing purposes may be made upon condition that persons, admitted as eligible members and tenants of the cooperative, may not subsequently be deprived of their membership or tenancy by reason of their no longer meeting the income eligibility requirements. Amends the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1969 to allow the Administrator of General Services to transfer any Federal surplus real property, within the meaning of such Act, to the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development or the Secretary of Agriculture at either's request for sale or lease by either Secretary at its fair value for use in the provision of housing to be occupied predominantly by families or individuals of low- or moderate-income, assisted under a Federal housing assistance program or under a State or local program. Requires the Secretary of Agriculture to study the legislative and administrative changes which would be required: (1) to conform the procedures of the Farmers Home Administration for reporting budget and accounting information with the reporting principles established by the Presidential Commission on Budget Concepts; (2) to establish procedures to reflect fully in the Federal Budget the budget authority and outlays of the programs administered by the Farmers Home Administration; (3) to remove budget and accounting practices which are inconsistent with the practices for recording debt transactions as provided in the current policy of the Office of Management and Budget; and (4) to simplify the authorities provided in the Housing Act of 1949. Amends the Housing Act of 1949 to permit the Secretary of Agriculture to administer, in any rural area, any mortgage insurance program established pursuant to the National Housing Act to the extent to which the administration of any such program is delegated to the Secretary by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. Amends the National Housing Act to authorize the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to delegate certain mortgage insurance programs to the Secretary of Agriculture in rural areas.
United States · United States Congress · 6 May 1980
Disapproves the proposed rule under the Natural Gas Policy Act of 1978 relating to incremental pricing of natural gas, a copy of which was transmitted to Congress on May 6, 1980.
United States · United States Congress · 23 April 1980
Handgun Crime Control Act of 1979 - Title I: Amendments to Chapter 44, Title 18, United States Code, Gun Control - Amends the Gun Control Act of 1968 to revise and add definitions used in the Act. Defines "handgun" to include handgun parts. Defines "Department" to mean the Department of Justice (current law is under the authority of the Secretary of the Treasury). Prohibits non-licensees from engaging in the business of repairing firearms or ammunition. Stipulates that certain otherwise lawful activities, such as the returning of a firearm by a licensee to the person from whom it was received and the mailing of a firearm to a licensee for the purpose or repair, shall be unlawful with respect to "easily concealable handguns" (that is, those handguns not approved by the Attorney General under this Act). Prohibits the loan or rental of an easily concealable handgun to another person for temporary use for lawful sporting purposes. Prohibits a licensee from selling a handgun to a person who does not appear in person at the licensee's business premises. Prohibits a licensee from selling or delivering a firearm or ammunition to any person if such sale or delivery violates a public ordinance at the place of residence of the purchaser. Revises the statement which must be submitted to a licensee by a purchaser not appearing at such licensee's business premises to provide that such purchaser be 18 years of age with respect to all firearms (current law requires a purchaser of any firearm other than a shotgun or rifle to be 21 years of age). Prohibits a licensee from manufacturing, assembling, selling, or transferring any handgun, other than a curio or relic, which has not been approved by the Attorney General. Prohibits any person from transferring such a handgun unless such person has reasonable cause to believe that the handgun has been approved. Excepts the mailing of handguns to comply with approved standards under certain circumstances. Prohibits the modification of an approved handgun resulting in the failure of such handgun to meet the approved standards. Revises the current prohibition against certain classes of individuals transporting a firearm or ammunition in interstate commerce to: (1) extend such prohibition to possession or receipt of any firearm or ammunition; and (2) include as additional categories illegal aliens, persons dishonorably discharged from the Armed Forces, and persons who have renounced their United States citizenship. Includes such categories in the current prohibition against selling a firearm or ammunition to certain classes of individuals. Prohibits any person from transporting a firearm or ammunition in interstate or foreign commerce in violation of a State law in a place to or through which the firearm was transported. Prohibits a licensee from transferring three or more handguns to the same non-licensee within a period of one year, without prior approval of the Attorney General. Prohibits a non-licensee from receiving three or more handguns within one year without such approval. Prohibits any person who has knowledge of the loss, theft, or disappearance of a handgun in his or her control or possession to fail to report such incident to a law enforcement officer and the Attorney General. Specifies the circumstances under which a person in lawful possession of a license or permit to: (1) carry handguns issued under a State licensing or permit granting program approved by the Attorney General may purchase or receive a handgun in any State from a licensed dealer or non-licensee; and (2) purchase handguns issued under an approved program, may purchase or receive a handgun in the State issuing the license or permit. Directs the Attorney General to review State laws providing for licenses or permits to carry or purchase handguns and to certify as approved those satisfying specified requirements. Specifies the circumstances under which (except as provided by other sections of the Act) a licensed dealer or non-licensee may transfer a handgun to another non-licensee. Sets new annual licensing fees of $5,000 for a manufacturer or importer of handguns, $500 for a dealer in handguns, $100 for a dealer in ammunition for handguns that is not also used in rifles, and $100 for a dealer who is a gunsmith. Prohibits a pawnbroker from being licensed as a dealer in handguns or handgun ammunition and such dealers from conducting business from the premises of a pawnbroker. Imposes additional requirements for the approval of a license application by the Attorney General. Increases from 45 to 90 days the period in which an application must be approved or denied. Authorizes the Attorney General, after notice and opportunity for hearing, to suspend or revoke a license, or subject a licensee who violates any provision of the Act to a civil penalty of up to $10,000 per violation. Sets forth new recordkeeping requirements for licensed importers, manufacturers, and dealers in handguns. Provides for the transfer of records where a licensee loses his or her license, transfers the business to another person, or in any way ceases doing business. Directs the Attorney General to appoint a 15-member Handgun Criteria Commission to develop criteria for the evaluation of handgun models according to frame size and other appropriate factors for determining whether such models are easily concealable, have potential for criminal use, or are particularly suitable for sporting purposes. Requires the Commission to submit a report containing such criteria within one year of enactment and to evaluate biannually the effectiveness of existing criteria. Directs the Attorney General to revise the criteria upon a determination by the Commission that handguns satisfying existing criteria are significantly involved in handgun crime. Requires final criteria to be transmitted to Congress, which may disapprove by resolution the criteria within 60 days of continuous session. Directs the Attorney General to approve for manufacture, importation, or transfer any handgun model which satisfies the established criteria after representative samples of such model are evaluated and tested. Authorizes exceptions with respect to handguns which are particularly appropriate for law enforcement purposes. Directs the Attorney General, prior to the time that criteria have been established, to evaluate samples of all handgun models and approve for manufacture, importation, or transfer handgun models which meet specified requirements. Sets forth procedures for the administrative review of a finding that a sample submitted has failed to meet the approved standards. Requires the Attorney General to publish at least semiannually in the general register a list of handgun models which have been tested and the test results. Deems approved any handgun model not in manufacture on or after October 21, 1968, and which has not been tested. Revises the penalties under such Act. Disallows, with respect to a person who uses or carries a firearm during the commission of any felony and receives an additional sentence, the suspension of such sentence, the giving of probation, or the concurrent running of a term of imprisonment (under current law such prohibitions apply only to a second or subsequent offense). Sets forth a mandatory period of parole ineligibility for such offense, unless the court finds specified mitigating circumstances. Makes any person (including a licensee) who negligently sells or transfers a handgun in violation of this Act civilly liable for the death or injury suffered by an individual as a result of the use of the handgun by the transferee in the commission of an offense that causes death or personal injury to that individual. Stipulates that certain exceptions to the provisions of the Act shall only apply with respect to handguns which have been approved by the Attorney General in accordance with the Act. Allows a mental incompetent to be relieved from the disabilities of the Act with respect to the possession, acquisition, or transfer of firearms upon specific findings by a court. Authorizes the Attorney General to permit the importation of approved handguns. Directs the Attorney General to make annual grants for each fiscal year and supplemental grants at his or her discretion for compensation of victims of handgun crime to qualifying State programs for the compensation of victims of handgun crime. Specifies eligibility criteria for such programs and the amount of authorized payments. Requires the Attorney General to submit annual reports to the congressional judiciary committees concerning such programs. Establishes a nine-member Advisory Committee on Victims of Handgun Crime to advise the Attorney General on the administration of the programs and policies relating to the compensation of victims of handgun crimes. Title II: Gun Control Functions Transferred to Attorney General - Transfers to the Attorney General all functions of the Secretary of the Treasury under the Gun Control Act of 1968. Authorizes the President to transfer additional functions of other agencies to the Department which relate to the functions transferred by this Act. Establishes within the Department of Justice the Firearms Safety and Abuse Control Administration to administer the functions of the Attorney General under the Gun Control Act of 1968. Directs the Attorney General to transmit to Congress as part of the annual report of the Department of Justice a report on the activities of the Administration. Title III: Miscellaneous Provisions - Amends the Federal criminal code to increase from 45 to 90 days the period in which an application for a user permit or a license to import, manufacture, or deal in explosive materials must be approved or denied. Authorizes the Attorney General, after notice and opportunity for hearing, to suspend or revoke a license, or subject a licensee who violates any statutory requirement to a civil penalty of up to $10,000 per violation. Directs the Postal Service to promulgate regulations for the conveyance of handguns in the mails. Directs the Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations established by the Act of September 24, 1959, in consultation with the United States Conference of Mayors, the National League of Cities, and representatives of Federal, State, and local law enforcement agencies, to report within six months of enactment on: (1) intergovernmental problems in controlling illicit handgun traffic; and (2) the effectiveness of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 and the Gun Control Act of 1968. Repeals title VII of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act (relating to the receipt, possession, or transportation of firearms by felons, veterans dishonorably discharged, mental incompetents, illegal aliens, and persons renouncing their United States citizenship). Makes this Act effective 120 days after enactment, with specified exceptions.
United States · United States Congress · 21 April 1980
Comprehensive Housing Development Act of 1980 - Amends the National Housing Act to increase the allowable maximum amount for mortgage assistance payments under such Act. Authorizes appropriations for such mortgage assistance payments through October 1, 1981. Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, under the mortgage insurance program, to insure a mortgage involving a principal obligation which exceeds, by up to ten percent, the maximum limits specified under the Act, if such mortgage relates to a dwelling to be occupied by a physically handicapped person and the additional principal reflects the cost of making the dwelling accessible to such person. Allows the Secretary, in order to prevent inflationary conditions and related governmental actions from having a severely disproportionate effect on the housing industry, to make and contract to make periodic assistance payments to mortgagees or other lenders on behalf of homeowners (including the owners of mobile homes). Terminates such authority on September 30, 1981, or at such earlier date as the Secretary may deem appropriate. Specifies that such payments may be made only on behalf of a homeowner who satisfies such eligibility requirements as may be prescribed by the Secretary. Requires a homeowner to continue to occupy the property which secures the mortgage or loan in order to receive such assistance payments. Sets forth the formula for determining the amount of such assistance payments. Allows the Secretary to include in the payment to the mortgagee or other lender such amount as the Secretary deems appropriate to reimburse the mortgagee or lender for its reasonable and necessary expenses in handling the mortgage or loan. Limits assistance payments for mobile homes to no more than 20 percent of the total number of units for which assistance is approved. Allows the Secretary, upon application by the mortgagee, to insure a mortgagor who meets the eligibility requirements for assistance payments as set forth by the Secretary. Sets forth the eligibility requirements for such insurance. Allows the Secretary to provide for graduated mortgage assistance payments, and to insure mortgages with varying rates of amortization, for not in excess of 100,000 mortgages. Extends until October 1, 1981, the authority of the Government National Mortgage Association to enter into new commitments to purchase mortgages under the interim mortgage purchase authority of the National Housing Act, as amended by the Emergency Home Purchase Assistance Act of 1974. Amends the National Housing Act to authorize appropriations to cover losses sustained by the General Insurance Fund. Allows the Secretary to make, and contract to make, periodic interest reduction payments on behalf of the owner of a multifamily rental project. Allows such payments to be made for a period of not more than 30 years to mortgagees holding mortgages secured by such project. Sets forth the formula for determining the amount of such payments. Sets forth the eligibility requirements which must be met in order to receive such payments. Requires the Secretary to provide that such payments are made only with respect to that part of the mortgage concerning the portion of the project which is used for residential purposes and only for the benefit of the families residing in such projects. Specifies that such payments may be made only to a project located within the jurisdictional boundaries of a unit of general local government which has made substantial progress in meeting its annual goals for housing for lower- income persons as specified in its housing assistance plan submitted pursuant to the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974. Requires the Secretary, in making such assistance, to give a preference to projects which have or will receive financial contributions from a State or local government which will result in lower rental charges to the families residing therein. Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 to require an applicant for grants for State and local community development programs to submit a housing assistance plan which: (1) accurately surveys the condition of housing stock in the community designed for persons who have incomes which do not exceed 150 percent of the median income for the area; (2) assesses the housing assistance needs of such person; (3) specifies a realistic goal of the number of rental dwelling units which will be provided such persons as a result of such program; and (4) indicates the general locations of such dwelling units.
United States · United States Congress · 16 April 1980
Extends specified farm housing programs of the Farmers Home Administration under the Housing Act of 1949 through September 30, 1982. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1982 for: (1) the issuance of notes and obligations for loan funds by the Farmers Home Administration; (2) loans and grants for repairs or improvements of rural dwellings and financial assistance to provide low-rent housing for domestic farm labor; (3) grants for the development of technical and supervisory assistance programs in rural areas with Federal, State, and local housing programs for low-income families; (4) loans and grants for mutual and self-help housing programs in rural areas and small towns; and (5) the Self-Help Housing Land Development Fund. Extends through fiscal year 1982 the authority of the Secretary of Agriculture to insure loans which provide rental and cooperative housing for the elderly or others of low-and moderate-income and to insure and make loans for housing and buildings on farms owned by low-or moderate-income families.
United States · United States Congress · 25 March 1980
Amends the automobile fuel economy provisions of the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to include certain foreign-manufactured automobiles in a manufacturer's calculation of average fuel economy when: (1) at least 50 percent of the cost to the manufacturer of such automobiles is attributable to value added in the United States or Canada; (2) such automobiles have never previously been domestically manufactured; (3) the manufacturer submits an acceptable plan relating to a timetable for the domestic production of such automobiles; (4) such automobiles are manufactured before the close of the third model year commencing after the model year in which the Secretary approved such plan; (5) such manufacturer has not previously submitted another plan approved by the Secretary; and (6) any automobile in Canada is imported into the United States within 30 days after the end of the applicable model year.
United States · United States Congress · 28 February 1980
Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships - Implements the Protocol of 1978 Relating to the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, 1973 (MARPOL Protocol). Applies this Act to ships of United States registry or nationality or of a country party to the MARPOL Protocol and ships registered in or of the nationality of a country not a party to the MARPOL Protocol traveling in all waters subject to the jurisdiction of the United States. Exempts: (1) warships, naval auxiliaries, or other ships owned by the United States while engaged in noncommercial service, subject to standards prescribed by the appropriate Federal departments and agencies; and (2) other ships specifically excluded by the MARPOL Protocol. Authorizes the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating to administer, enforce, and prescribe regulations to carry out the provisions of the MARPOL Protocol and this Act, utilizing other Federal departments and agencies as necessary. Authorizes the Secretary to designate persons to issue certificates required by the MARPOL Protocol. Stipulates that: (1) certificates shall not be issued to ships of countries not a party to the MARPOL Protocol; and (2) certificates issued by a participating country of the MARPOL Protocol shall be honored. Subjects to inspection any ship required to carry a valid certificate. Directs the Secretary to detain any ship required to have a certificate which either does not have one on board or has a condition in disagreement with the certificate until such ship can proceed to sea without presenting an unreasonable threat of harm to the marine environment. Allows any person whose ship is detained to petition the Secretary. Permits compensation for any loss or damage suffered by a ship unreasonably detained or delayed. Directs the Secretary, after consultation with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, to establish regulations for determining the adequacy of reception facilities of a port or terminal, and to issue certificates indicating that facilities for receiving residues and mixtures containing oil or noxious liquid substances from seagoing ships are adequate. States conditions under which such certificates can be inspected, suspended, or revoked. Requires the listing of such certified ports and terminals in the Federal Register. Allows the Secretary to deny entry to any ship retaining residues and mixtures containing oil or noxious liquids into a port or terminal required to have but not holding a valid certificate. Requires immediate reporting of any incident covered by the Protocol to the Secretary. Directs the Secretary to investigate any such report of violation and take appropriate action, acting through the Secretary of State in cases involving a ship not of United States registry or nationality. Imposes a fine of not more than $50,000 for each violation or imprisonment for not more than five years, or both, and a civil penalty of not more than $10,000, or $1,000 in cases of false, fictitious, or fraudulent statements or representations. Deems a ship liable in rem for any pecuniary fine or penalty incurred. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to refuse or revoke clearance required by Federal law (R.S. 4197) to any ship liable for such a penalty. Sets forth procedures to be taken in accepting a proposed amendment to the MARPOL Protocol received by the United States from the Secretary-General of the Inter-Governmental Maritime Consultative Organization. Permits any person having an interest adversely affected by: (1) any person who is alleged to be in violation of these provisions; or (2) a Secretary who is alleged to be in neglect in performing duties under this Act, to bring suit against such party, subject to specified procedures and jurisdictions. Authorizes the court to award costs of litigation. Allows the Attorney General to intervene in any action not involving the United States. Repeals the Oil Pollution Act, 1961, and the Oil Pollution Act Amendments of 1973. Authorizes the Secretary to inspect vessels subject to this Act, except public vessels engaged in noncommercial service entering navigable waters of and documented under the laws of the United States. Directs the Secretary and the heads of Federal departments to issue regulations, standards, and certificates upon enactment of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 27 February 1980
Amends the Powerplant and Industrial Fuel Use Act of 1978 to limit the sum of all severance taxes or fees, for any fiscal year, levied upon or collected from any taxpayer by a State or any political subdivision thereof on coal destined for shipment in interstate commerce for use in any powerplant or major fuel-burning installation or on any improvements or other rights, property, or assets produced, owned, or used in connection with the production of such coal. States that such tax shall not exceed a total of 12 1/2 percent of the value of such coal produced during a fiscal year.
United States · United States Congress · 26 February 1980
Housing and Community Development Act of 1980 - Title I: Community and Neighborhood Development and Conservation - Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 to define the term "metropolitan city" to specify that it shall not include any city whose population is included in the population of an urban county. Specifies for fiscal years 1981, 1982, and 1983 that no data derived from the 1980 Decennial Census, except those relating to population and poverty, shall be taken into account for purposes of the allocation of funds to metropolitan areas. Prohibits, for fiscal years 1981, 1982, and 1983, any revision to the criteria for establishing a metropolitan area or defining a central city of such an area published after January 1, 1980, to be taken into account for purposes of this title, except in the case of any area or city which would newly qualify as a metropolitan area or a central city of such an area. Specifies that, with respect to grants for State, tribal, and local community development programs, beginning in fiscal year 1981, the population of any unit of general local government which is included in that of an urban county shall be included in the population of such urban county for three program years beginning with the program year in which its population was first so included. Requires any county seeking qualification as an urban county, including any urban county seeking to continue such qualification, to notify each unit of general local government, which is included therein and is eligible to elect to have its population excluded from that of an urban county, of its opportunity to make such an election. Authorizes the appropriation of funds for the purpose of making grants to States and units of local government to help finance community development programs for fiscal years 1980 through 1983. Authorizes funds for fiscal years 1980 through 1983 for the purpose of assisting severely distressed cities that require supplemental grant assistance in order to alleviate excessive deterioration through neighborhood reclamation and community revitalization. Limits amounts of appropriated funds which may be used to aid metropolitan cities, urban counties, and other units of local government within metropolitan areas to meet their hold-harmless needs. Amends the Housing Act of 1964 to define the term "congregate housing" as residential property in which some or all of the dwelling units do not contain kitchen or bathroom facilities. Extends the rehabilitation loan program under such Act to include congregate housing and to authorize appropriations for fiscal years 1980 and 1981 for community and neighborhood development and conservation programs. Authorizes appropriations, through fiscal year 1982, for the neighborhood self-help development programs under the Housing and Community Development Amendments of 1978. Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to reimburse the Veterans Administration for properties transferred to urban homesteading programs. Extends the authorization of appropriations for such programs through fiscal year 1982. Title II: Housing Assistance Programs - Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to enter into contracts for annual contributions under the United States Housing Act of 1937 for low-income housing projects in fiscal years 1980 and 1981. Authorizes appropriations through fiscal year 1982 for operating assistance for troubled multifamily housing projects under the Housing and Community Development Amendments of 1978. Amends the National Housing Act to direct the Secretary to utilize amounts credited to the rental housing assistance fund for the sole purpose of carrying out assistance for troubled multifamily housing projects through September 30, 1982. Increases the allowable maximum amount for mortgage assistance payments under the National Housing Act. Authorizes appropriations for such mortgage assistance payments through October 1, 1981. Allows the Secretary, under the mortgage insurance program, to insure a mortgage involving a principal obligation which exceeds, by not more than 10 percent, the maximum limits, if such mortgage relates to a dwelling to be occupied by a physically handicapped person. Amends the Housing and Community Development Amendments of 1978 to require a public housing agency or nonprofit corporation applying for assistance to provide congregate services: (1) to elderly residents to consult with the Area Agency on Aging; and (2) to nonelderly handicapped residents to consult with the appropriate agency. Title III: Program Amendments and Extensions - Extends for two years through September 30, 1982, the authority of the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to insure mortgages or loans under certain HUD mortgage or loan insurance programs under the National Housing Act and to set interest rates for insured mortgage loans. Extends until October 1, 1982, the authority of the Government National Mortgage Association to enter into new commitments to purchase mortgages under the interim mortgage purchase authority of the National Housing Act, as amended by the Emergency Home Purchase Assistance Act of 1974. Authorizes appropriations for research and demonstration housing projects through fiscal year 1981. Amends the National Housing Act to authorize appropriations to cover losses sustained by the General Insurance Fund. Allows the President to authorize the Government National Mortgage Association to make payments to financial institutions for the purpose of subsidizing below market rate loans which are secured under the National Housing Act covering properties consisting of five or more dwelling units. Authorizes appropriations to make such payments through fiscal year 1982. Amends the National Housing Act to increase the mortgage purchase authority of the Government National Mortgage Association. Increases, by up to 20 percent, the amounts which may be insured under the National Housing Act for multifamily and institutional projects if such increase is necessary to account for the increased cost of the project due to the installation of a solar energy system. Amends the National Housing Act to authorize the Secretary, in collecting or compromising claims or obligations under the mortgage insurance program, to contract with private business concerns or agencies for payment for services rendered by such concerns or agencies in assisting the Secretary in making such collection or compromise. Requires a mortgage, in order to be eligible for mortgage insurance under the National Housing Act, to have a period of not less than 10 years to run beyond the maturity date of the mortgage. Makes mortgaged property located where concentrated housing, physical development, and public service activities are being or will be carried out in a coordinated manner, pursuant to a locally developed strategy for neighborhood improvement, conservation, or preservation, eligible for rehabilitation and neighborhood conservation housing insurance under the National Housing Act. Authorizes the Secretary, as an alternative to the acquisition of an insured mortgage to avoid foreclosure, to make all or part of the monthly payments due on an insured mortgage of a one to four family residence necessary to avoid default caused by circumstances beyond the mortgagor's control. Stipulates that such payments may be provided for a period of up to 18 months which may be extended for an additional 18 months at the discretion of the Secretary. Prohibits any such payments in the case of any mortgage with respect to which the Secretary has received a notice of default on or after August 2, 1984. Amends the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968 to direct the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, in consultation with the Small Business Administration, to provide for the participation by lower income persons and socially and economically disadvantaged firms in federally assisted projects. Requires the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, by March 15, of every other year beginning with calendar year 1981, to report to Congress concerning housing production goals for the current year and set forth general objectives for such activity during the next year. Declares that the land transferred by the city of Springfield, Illinois, to the United States Department of the Interior for the Lincoln Home National Historic Site shall be deemed to have been made in accordance with the provisions of the Housing Act of 1961 and any other law and with any regulations or other requirements in implementation thereof. Title IV: Planning Assistance - Declares that the following are national policy objectives with respect to housing under the Housing Act of 1954: (1) the conservation and improvement of existing communities; (2) an increase in housing and employment opportunities and choices; and (3) the promotion of orderly and efficient growth and development of communities, regions, and States, taking into consideration the necessity of conserving energy. Declares that it is the purpose of this title to help achieve these objectives by: (1) encouraging the joint efforts of State and local governments and areawide planning organizations in developing State and areawide strategies; and (2) assuring that strategies developed pursuant to this section will lead to implementation activities by States, areawide planning organizations, and local governments. Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to contract to make, and to make, grants approved in accordance with the provisions set forth in this section to: (1) States, for statewide activities; (2) States, for the provision of assistance to metropolitan areawide planning organizations, nonmetropolitan areawide planning organizations, units of general local government, counties other than urban counties, and any group of adjacent units of general local government having a total population of less than 50,000; (3) metropolitan areawide planning organizations; and (4) the Virgin Islands, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa, and the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands. Specifies that such grants shall not exceed two-thirds of the estimated cost of the work for which the grant is made. Sets forth the information to be included in the applications for such grants and requires such applications to meet such requirements as the Secretary may prescribe by regulations. Requires such applications to set forth a strategy statement which identifies policies and programs over at least a three-year period which address the major issues and problems of the applicant's jurisdiction. Requires the Secretary to establish, by regulation, criteria for the evaluation and approval of strategy statements and applications for grants and for the awarding of such grants. Requires each State and other entity receiving assistance directly from the Secretary for actions or activities being carried out to submit to the Secretary, each year, a performance report concerning such actions and activities. Requires the Secretary, on an annual basis, to make such reviews and audits as may be necessary or appropriate to determine whether a recipient of funds has carried out actions and activities substantially as described in its application. Allows the Secretary to adjust, reduce, or withdraw grant funds, or take other action as appropriate in accordance with such reviews and audits. Specifies that a strategy statement approved by the Secretary shall remain in effect for a maximum of three years following the date of its approval.
United States · United States Congress · 31 January 1980
Establishes a Commission on More Effective Government to study and recommend ways of promoting economy, efficiency, and improved service within the Federal Government. Directs the Commission to recommend methods to improve the relationship between Federal, State, and local governments. Provides for the appointment of members of the Commission by the President, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the President pro tempore of the Senate. Sets forth provisions governing the organization and compensation of the Commission and its staff. Empowers the Commission to establish advisory councils and committees as it deems appropriate without regard to the provisions of the Federal Advisory Committee Act. Sets forth the powers of the Commission enabling it to gather information free from subsequent review or comment by any Federal agency. Directs the Commission to submit its final report to the Congress ten days after the Ninety-eighth Congress convenes. Terminates the Commission 90 days after such date. Authorizes the appropriation of funds necessary to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 28 January 1980
Fusion Energy Research, Development, and Demonstration Act of 1980 - Directs the Secretary of Energy to establish research, development, and demonstration programs involving magnetic fusion energy systems to: (1) construct and operate a fusion engineering test facility by 1986; (2) construct and operate a magnetic fusion demonstration facility before the end of this century; (3) maintain and expand the base programs for fusion energy research and the development and testing of appropriate alternative confinement technologies; (4) maintain a strong research and development program in advanced fusion fuels; and (5) ensure an uninterrupted source of scientific and engineering talent from institutions of higher learning to support such effort. Requires such programs to include a study of the potential of using fusion energy for the production of synthetic fuels and the electrification of ground transportation systems. Directs the Secretary to disseminate information promoting the practical uses of fusion energy.
United States · United States Congress · 22 January 1980
Expresses the sense of Congress that the President should call upon the International Olympic Committee to relocate the 1980 summer Olympic games outside of the Soviet Union.
United States · United States Congress · 20 December 1979
Emergency Home Purchase Assistance Authority Amendments of 1979 - Amends the National Housing Act to remove the specific dollar limitations on the original principal obligation of a mortgage which may be purchased by the Government National Mortgage Association (GNMA) under the Emergency Home Purchase Assistance Act. Limits such purchasing authority to mortgages in an amount which would make a residence or project eligible for mortgage insurance under the applicable Federal insurance program. Permits such amounts to be raised by up to ten percent in high cost areas determined by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. Limits the sales price of a principal residence covered by a mortgage which may be purchased under the emergency authority of the GNMA to 105 percent of such maximum mortgage amount which may be raised an additional 10 percent in high-cost areas. Eliminates the 7 1/2 percent interest rate limitation on mortgage loans eligible for purchase. Permits the Secretary to establish the maximum interest rate at a level consistent with market conditions provided it does not exceed the maximum rate on mortgages eligible for Federal insurance.
United States · United States Congress · 20 November 1979
Amends the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act to permit the inclusion of a manufacturer's imported automobiles for model years 1980 through 1986 for purposes of determining such manufacturer's compliance with the average fuel economy standards required under this Act where the average fuel economy standard is dependent upon reasonably selected technology which is not within the ability of such manufacturer to develop.
United States · United States Congress · 9 November 1979
Chrysler Corporation Loan Guarantee Act of 1979 - Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to enter commitments to guarantee loans made to Chrysler Corporation if the Secretary determines that: (1) such a commitment is needed to enable Chrysler to continue to operate and the failure to meet this need would adversely and seriously affect the employment or economic situation in the United States or any of its regions, or the degree of competition in the automobile industry; (2) Chrysler has submitted a feasible operating plan for its 1980 fiscal year and the next three fiscal years demonstrating its ability to continue as a going concern in the automobile business without additional Federal assistance after December 31, 1983; and (3) Chrysler has submitted a satisfactory financial plan which includes at least $1,500,000,000 in funds that are not guaranteed by the Federal Government. Requires a portion of such non-Federal funds to be in the form of commitments and concessions contributed after October 17, 1979, by financial institutions, Chrysler's creditors, shareholders, employees, and management, State and local governments, labor unions, and other entities with an economic stake in Chrysler. Prohibits the amount of outstanding guarantees actually issued by the Secretary from ever proportionately exceeding the amount of such non-Federal funding obtained and not repaid. Permits Chrysler to obtain capital and cash in order to meet the required level of non-Federal funding through a merger, the sale of securities, assets, or other transactions consummated after October 17, 1979. Requires the Secretary, before entering any commitments to guarantee loans, to receive assurances: (1) as to availability and adequacy of all financing contemplated by the financing plan;(2) that existing creditors will continue to waive their rights under prior credit commitments in default unless the Secretary determines that exercise of such rights will not adversely affect Chrysler's operating or financial plan; and (3) that expenditures under the financing plan will contribute to Chrysler's domestic economic viability. Requires Chrysler, before any loan guarantees may be issued, to: (1) offer for sale at least $100,000,000 of its stock issued or held as Treasury stock after October 17, 1979; and (2) secure commitments to purchase stock exceeding those outstanding on October 17, 1979, by at least $100,000,000 from persons with an existing economic stake in Chrysler. Permits Chrysler to apply such commitments and concessions to meet the required level of non-federally guaranteed financing. Stipulates that the Secretary may issue guarantees only pursuant to commitments. Requires such commitments to provide that guarantees will only be issued if the Secretary determines that: (1) Chrysler would otherwise be unable to obtain credit upon reasonable terms sufficient to meet the needs of its operating plan; (2) there is a reasonable prospect of repayment; (3) the loan bears interest at a reasonable rate determined by the Secretary not less than the current average yield on Treasury securities of comparable maturity; (4) Chrysler continues to comply with an operating and financial plan or a revision which is feasible and satisfactory to the Secretary; (5) Chrysler has agreed to deliver rolling four-year operating and financial plans to the Secretary and an annual analysis of deviations in performance from the targets set forth in such plans; and (6) Chrysler has complied with the requirements set forth in the terms of any commitment. Renders any determination made by the Secretary under this Act conclusive upon the issuance of a loan guarantee. States that the validity of any guarantee shall be incontestable except for fraud or material misrepresentation on the part of the holder thereof. Authorizes the Secretary to determine the form of all guarantees issued under this Act. Directs the Secretary to collect, at least once a year, a guarantee fee of at least one-half percent per annum on the outstanding guaranteed loan principal computed daily. Authorizes the Secretary to negotiate appropriate additional terms to compensate the United States for the risk it assumes in issuing loan guarantees. Requires that all guaranteed loans mature no later then December 31, 1990. Prohibits waiver or amendment of the terms of any guaranteed loan without the Secretary's consent. Requires each commitment to contain appropriate protective provisions. Directs the Secretary to require security for the loans guaranteed under this Act, subordination of existing creditors, and that Chrysler pay no dividends on any common or preferred stock. Permits the Secretary to waive such requirements if necessary to enable Chrysler to obtain financing and if, despite such waiver, there is a reasonable prospect of repayment. Directs the Secretary to require a change in Chrysler's management if the Secretary determines that the inability of Chrysler to obtain credit without guarantees is a result of the failure of management to exercise reasonable business prudence. Authorizes the Secretary to inspect the records of Chrysler or any of its affiliates for which an application for a loan guarantee has been submitted. Authorizes the General Accounting Office to conduct a detailed audit of Chrysler and its affiliates. Directs the Office to report the results of such audit to the Secretary and the Congress. Prohibits the outstanding principal amount of loans guaranteed by the Secretary from exceeding $1,500,000,000 at any one time. Directs the Secretary to enforce the rights of the United States as a guarantor under this Act. Entitles the Secretary to recover any payments made pursuant to a guarantee from Chrysler, its affiliates, or any other liable person. Empowers the Secretary to utilize all available remedies in enforcing the rights of the United States and to bring actions in the United States district courts or any other appropriate court to enforce compliance with this Act or the terms of any agreement. Grants jurisdiction to such courts to hear such actions and to fashion appropriate remedies. Prohibits the Secretary from guaranteeing any tax-exempt security either directly or indirectly if the guarantee provides significant collateral for other tax-exempt obligations. Authorizes the Secretary to waive the priority of the United States if necessary to facilitate financing contemplated by the financing plan provided the Secretary determines that, despite such waiver, there is a reasonable prospect of repayment. Stipulates that such a waiver may not subordinate the claims of the United States to any other creditor. Renders any provision of this Act severable from the other provisions if held invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction. Directs the Secretary to submit an annual report to the Congress on activities conducted pursuant to this Act. Authorizes the appropriation of funds necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act beginning in fiscal year 1979 and remaining available without fiscal year limitation. Limits the authority of the Secretary to make guarantees to the extent provided in advance by appropriation Acts.
United States · United States Congress · 9 November 1979
Sunset Review Act of 1979 - Requires the House Committee on Rules and the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration to jointly develop and maintain an inventory of all Federal programs and tax expenditures. Requires such inventory to classify all such programs and expenditures according to the jurisdiction of the various legislative committees of the two Houses. Requires the General Accounting Office, before the beginning of the 97th Congress, after consultation with the appropriate legislative committees, to submit a draft inventory to the House Committee on Rules and the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration. Requires such Committees to notify each legislative committee of the programs and tax expenditures which are classified within its jurisdiction. Allows any legislative committee to propose revisions of such inventory within 30 days after notification. Requires, after a determination that all programs and tax expenditures are accurately classified, that such inventory be published in a single document. Requires that an update be made of such inventory at the beginning of every Congress. Directs the General Accounting Office to maintain and publish a supplement to the inventory. Requires each legislative committee of the House of Representatives and the Senate, on or before March 1 in the first session of each Congress beginning with the 98th Congress, to develop, adopt, and submit to the House Committee on Rules and the Senate Committees on Rules and Administration an agenda for the sunset review of selected Federal programs within its jurisdiction or in the case of the House Committee on Ways and Means and the Senate Committee on Finance, of selected tax expenditures. Requires the committees of each House to develop their sunset review agenda in consultation with any other committee which has concurrent jurisdiction over any programs or tax expenditures involved. Prohibits either the House or the Senate from considering a primary expense resolution for any legislative committee in any Congress until that committee has developed and submitted its sunset review agenda. Requires the House Committee on Rules and the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration to incorporate such agendas into a consolidated sunset review agenda and to report such consolidated agenda to its House in the form of a concurrent resolution, within seven legislative days after all committee sunset review agendas have been submitted. Requires the consolidated sunset review agenda to be adopted in the House and in the Senate no later than March 30 in the first session of each Congress. Sets forth the procedures for adoption. Requires each committee of the House or the Senate, not later than May 15 in the second session of each Congress, to report a bill or bills modifying, continuing, or terminating each program or tax expenditure which it has been directed to review under the consolidated sunset review agenda adopted during the first session. Requires such bill to be accompanied by a report setting forth the committee's findings, recommendations, and justifications. Requires each department, agency, and instrumentality in the executive branch of the Government which is responsible for the administration of a Federal program or tax expenditure selected for sunset review to give assistance to the appropriate Congressional committees. Specifies that nothing in this Act shall affect the authority of any legislative committee to review programs or tax expenditures within its jurisdiction and to report legislation modifying, continuing, or terminating such programs or expenditures at such times and in such manner as it deems appropriate. Amends rule X of the Rules of the House of Representatives to include the consolidated sunset review agendas and the congressional inventory of Federal programs as part of the House Committee on Rules' functions.
United States · United States Congress · 26 October 1979
National Energy Conservation Incentives Act - Title I: Amendments to Utility Program - Amends the residential energy conservation title of the National Energy Conservation Policy Act to extend the definition of "residential building" to include: (1) any building used for residential occupancy which contains at least one dwelling unit; and (2) specified commercial buildings. Requires that each utility program under such title contain procedures authorizing utilities to reinspect buildings equipped with conservation measures to determine the extent to which such measures have been installed. Amends the requirements for approval of proposed residential energy conservation plans to require that contractors or suppliers of residential energy conservation measures seeking to be included on the list of approved contractors and suppliers provide one year warranties on materials and installation of such measures and express a willingness to defer receipt of payment for such measures sold or installed until the reinspection described above is completed. Requires that such list indicate such willingness on the part of such contractors and suppliers to allow such deferred payments. Requires that the list of lending institutions offering financial assistance for the purchase and installation of such conservation measures indicate the availability at each such institution of assistance provided under the Energy Conservation Bank Act. Amends the requirements under such title concerning accounting and payment of costs of operating a utility program under such Act. Authorizes public utilities to make loans or capital investment payments to residential building owner customers for the purchase and installation of residential energy conservation measures under specified conditions. Amends the accounting and payment of costs provisions of such title to provide for the financing of such loans and capital investment payments. Stipulates that neither the Attorney General, the Federal Trade Commission, nor any other agency shall be barred from challenging anticompetitive acts or practices related to activities conducted under this Act, nor shall any person be deemed to have immunities or defenses to actions under the antitrust laws as a result of the provisions of this Act. Establishes effective dates for the issuance of regulations implementing the provisions of this Act by the Secretary of Energy, Governors or State regulatory agencies, and nonregulated utilities. Directs the Secretary of Energy to provide assistance to States for the training of residential building inspectors undertaking inspections required by this Act and for the development of approved energy conservation methods and inspections. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1980 through 1982 to carry out this title. Title II: Financial Assistance Provided by the Energy Conservation Bank - Energy Conservation Bank Act - Establishes the Energy Conservation Bank in the Department of Housing and Urban Development to provide financial assistance with respect to loans made to owners of existing commercial and residential buildings for the purchase and installation of energy conserving improvements in such buildings. Authorizes the Bank to provide such assistance in the form of payments to financial institutions and public utilities providing financing pursuant to the National Energy Conservation Policy Act. Sets forth criteria for providing such assistance and terms, conditions, and maximum amounts thereof. Establishes as part of the Bank an Advisory Committee to provide advice to the Board of Directors of the Bank on matters concerning energy conservation assistance. Directs the Bank to promote the program established by this Act and to coordinate its efforts with the Department of Energy. Directs the Board to issue an annual report to the Congress and the President discussing the operations of the Bank identifying problems encountered in the energy conservation industry, the Federal Government, and financial institutions concerning energy conservation, and making recommendations for improvement in the Bank's operations. Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to permit the Bank to use personnel of such Department for the purpose of carrying out this Act. Establishes penalties for fraud and misrepresentation with respect to loans assisted under this Act. Authorizes the use of funds from the Energy Security Trust Fund to provide assistance under this title. Sets forth limitations on the amount of such funds available for each of the fiscal years 1980 through 1983. Title III: Secondary Financing - Requires that the Board direct the Bank to make commitments to purchase, to purchase and to service, sell, and otherwise deal in loans and advances of credit made under this Act and the National Energy Conservation Policy Act to residential building owners for the purchase of energy conserving improvements. Authorizes the Bank to issue obligations to enable the Bank to carry out its functions. Exempts transactions authorized under this Act from State or local usury or loan insurance laws. Repeals specified provisions of the National Housing Act which authorize the Government National Mortgage Association to purchase energy conserving improvement loans. Amends the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation Act to authorize such Corporation to purchase, make commitments to purchase, and to hold, deal with, sell, and otherwise dispose of mortgages or interest therein held by any public utility acting under a utility program pursuant to the National Energy Conservation Policy Act, the original proceeds of which are applied for in order to finance energy conserving improvements. Amends the Federal National Mortgage Association Charter Act to authorize such association to exercise powers similar to those granted to the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation as described above. Title IV: Weatherization Program - Amends the Energy Conservation in Existing Buildings Act of 1976 to limit the amount of any grant made under such Act to be used for administrative purposes. Amends such Act to increase the amount of payment which may be made to pay volunteers and trainees and public employment workers under the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act of 1973 available to work on weatherization projects in the event there are insufficient participants under such program. Requires the coordination of activities related to rehabilitation, weatherization, and code enforcement conducted by local governments including activities undertaken pursuant to the Housing and Community Development Act and related to energy assistance programs for low- income families, including programs under the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964. Amends such Act to repeal the provisions granting priority in the allocation of weatherization assistance funds to community action agencies serving an area eligible for emergency energy conservation assistance under the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964. Directs the Secretary to establish standards and procedures for weatherization programs under such Act in a manner designed to accomplish uniform results among all the States in any particular similar climatic area. Directs the President to appoint an energy conservation coordinator to assure that the Secretaries of Energy, Housing and Urban Development, Agriculture, Health, Education and Welfare, Defense, the Administrator of the General Services Administration, and other heads of agencies responsible for developing energy conservation standards reach a consensus on establishing criteria for issuing such standards. Directs the President to make annual reports to the Congress on the activities relating to coordination of Federal energy conservation programs. Makes technical amendments to the Energy Conservation in Existing Buildings Act of 1976.
United States · United States Congress · 11 October 1979
Amends the United States Grain Standards Act to exempt from official weighing requirements: (1) intracompany shipments of grain into an export elevator by any mode of transportation; (2) grain transferred into an export elevator by transportation modes other than barges if waived by mutual agreement between shipper and receiver; and (3) grain transferred out of an export elevator to destinations within the United States if similarly waived by mutual agreement between shipper and receiver. Defines "intracompany shipments" as including shipments of grain lots: (1) between facilities owned or controlled by the person owning the grain; or (2) from a facility owned by a grain-owning cooperative to an export facility which such cooperative jointly owns with other cooperatives.
United States · United States Congress · 9 October 1979
African Development Foundation Act - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to establish the African Development Foundation to strengthen the bonds of friendship between the people of Africa and the United States and to assist in the development of Africa. Requires such Foundation to cooperate with indigenous organizations representative of Africa and other private, regional, and international organizations. Authorizes such Foundation to make grants, loans, and loan guarantees to African entities for developmental purposes. Requires the Foundation to give priority to community self-help projects with the maximum feasible participation of the poor. Sets forth the corporate powers of such Foundation. Provides for the appointment of a Board of Directors to manage such Foundation. Requires the Board to consult with a Council composed of individuals knowledgeable about development activities in Africa.
United States · United States Congress · 25 September 1979
National Center of Afro-American History and Culture Act - Establishes the National Afro-American History and Culture Commission which shall: (1) be responsible for the development of a definitive plan for the construction and operation of the National Center for Afro-American History and Culture; and (2) solicit subscriptions of funds from private sources to help meet costs of the construction, furnishing, and operation of the center, including the costs of acquiring works of art and artifacts. Allows the Commission to: (1) acquire by gift, purchase with appropriated or donated funds, transfer from any Federal or State agency, exchange, or otherwise acquire suitable land and interest in land in the vicinity of Wilberforce, Ohio, for the location of the headquarters of the center; (2) acquire appropriate works of art and any other real or personal property necessary for the establishment and operation of the center; and (3) sell, exchange, or otherwise dispose of any property acquired and designate any proceeds from such disposal for the benefit of the center. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to acquire by donation or purchase with donated or appropriated funds the Colonel Charles Young Home and adjacent lands in Wilberforce, Ohio, not to exceed 80 acres, which when acquired shall be known as the Wilberforce National Historic Site.
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1979
Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to include within the definition of "special immigrant" an immigrant (and accompanying spouse and children) entering the United States to pursue a course of religious study at an institute of religious training, which is registered with the Attorney General, in order to carry out the vocation of minister of a religious denomination having a bona fide organization in the United States and needing the services of such immigrant.
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1979
Amends the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act to stipulate that an automobile manufacturer's failure to comply with any average fuel economy standard shall not be deemed "unlawful conduct" under such Act unless the Secretary of Transportation has determined that: (1) any credits which the manufacturer may have received for exceeding such standards in any model year do not fully offset any penalty for failure to achieve such standards; and (2) the time for which such credits could be earned to offset such a penalty has expired. Allows such a credit to be used to offset any penalty which may have been assessed against the manufacturer in the three consecutive years prior to the model year in which the manufacturer exceeds such a standard.
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1979
Amends the United States Grain Standards Act, with respect to grain transferred out of and grain transferred into an export elevator at an export port location, to limit the official weighing requirement to: (1) grain transferred out of such an elevator to places outside the United States; and (2) grain transferred into such an elevator which is delivered by barge or with respect to which parties to its sales contract have not agreed to waive official weighing. Exempts from the official weighing requirement: (1) grain transferred by a person into or out of an export elevator which such person owns or controls; (2) grain transferred out of such an elevator to any place in the United States; and (3) incoming grain with respect to which parties to its sales contract have agreed to waive official weighing.
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1979
Food Additive Safety Amendments of 1979 - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to deem any food additive safe if the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare: (1) makes a finding, based on recommendations of an advisory committee, that the public benefit from permitting the use of such additive would exceed the public risk which might result from such use; (2) gives notice in the Federal Register of such a finding and invites public comment thereon; and (3) issues a final order not earlier than 120 days after such publication in the Federal Register of such findings. Specifies factors the Secretary must take into consideration when evaluating a food additive or its proposed use. Authorize the Secretary to include in any food additive regulation a labelling requirement to identify the additive and its degree of risk. Prohibits the Secretary from denying a petition for a food additive regulation solely on the basis of evidence of tumors developed in test animals where the dosage levels used on such animals exceeds one hundred times the reasonably expected maximum human consumption of such additive. Amends the Saccharin Study and Labeling Act to extend from 18 to 36 months the period following enactment during which restrictions may not be imposed on the sale or distribution of saccharin, or any food, drug, or cosmetic containing it.
United States · United States Congress · 27 July 1979
Solar Energy Development Bank Act - Establishes a Solar Energy Development Bank within the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Directs the President to appoint, with the advice and consent of the Senate, a president to manage and supervise the affairs of such bank subject to the direction of its Board of Directors. Directs the General Accounting Office to periodically audit the financial transactions of the Solar Bank. Permits the Solar Bank to impose fees or charges for its services. Stipulates that the Solar Bank be governed by a Board of Directors consisting of the Secretaries of HUD, the Treasury, and Energy. Directs the Board to adopt, amend, or repeal such regulations as are necessary or convenient for the functioning of the Solar Bank. Empowers the Board to fix the level of subsidy and the interest rate on loans subsidized by the Bank. Permits the Board to alter the level of subsidy and interest rates for new loans subsidized by the Bank. Sets forth factors for the Board to consider when altering such rates, including: (1) the prevailing market rates of interest for home mortgages, home improvement loans, and commercial loans, as well as prevailing market rates of interest for Government and corporate bonds; (2) the availability of other Government incentives and subsidies for solar energy equipment, including Federal income tax credits; (3) the costs of nonrenewable energy resources and systems; and (4) the levels of subsidy needed to induce consumers and builders to install solar energy systems in residential and commercial buildings. Permits the Solar Bank, beginning with fiscal year 1980, to make payments to financial institutions for the purpose of subsidizing below-market rate loans to owners or builders of commercial and residential structures for the purchase and installation of solar energy systems in such structures. Defines "solar energy systems" for the purposes of this Act. Sets forth the procedure and terms governing the payment of such subsidies. Exempts transactions made under this Act from any State or local usury laws. Establishes penalties for knowingly making false statements or misrepresentations of material fact with respect to any loan assisted under this Act. Directs the Board of Directors of the Solar Bank to make an annual report to the President and both Houses of Congress. Directs the Solar Bank to promote the programs established by this Act by informing and actively seeking the participation of financial institutions and consumers. Permits the Solar Bank to utilize the services of personnel within HUD with the permission of the Secretary. Authorizes the use of funds available in the Energy Security Trust Fund to carry out the purposes of this Act, within specified limits.
United States · United States Congress · 13 June 1979
Afro-American Museum Act - Establishes the Afro-American History and Culture Board which shall be responsible for the establishment of the National Museum of Afro-American History and Culture. Authorizes the museum to preserve, collect and display objects relating to the history and culture of Afro-Americans and to establish exhibits, curatorial services, library programs, archives programs, professional museum training programs and educational and extension services. Directs the Board to construct and operate the initial branch and headquarters of the museum in Wilberforce, Ohio, and to study the possibility of establishing other branches in different areas of the country.
United States · United States Congress · 4 May 1979
Amends the United States Grain Standards Act to prohibit, in the absence of a requirement in the sales contract, the official weighing at the time of transfer into an export elevator of grain contracted for sale for export from the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 3 May 1979
Defense Production Act Amendments of 1979 - Amends the Defense Production Act of 1950 to authorize the President to allow the Department of Energy and the Tennessee Valley Authority to guarantee loans for the purpose of expediting deliveries or services with respect to national defense contracts. Increases the maximum loan which any Federal agency may guarantee under such Act without the approval of Congress from $20,000,000 to $38,000,000. Requires notification to specified Congressional committees of any proposed obligation above such limit. Authorizes the agency involved to guarantee such a loan if neither House of Congress disapproves of such action within a specified time. Authorizes the President to provide loans to private business enterprises for the production of energy. Increases the ceiling for loans made to private enterprises pursuant to such Act from $25,000,000 to $48,000,000. Extends the President's power under such Act to purchase raw materials for the national defense through fiscal year 1995. Directs the President to attempt to achieve a national production goal of at least 500,000 barrels per day crude equivalent of synthetic fuels and synthetic chemical feedstocks within five years. Authorizes and directs the President to require fuel and chemical feedstock suppliers to provide synthetic fuels and synthetic chemical feedstocks in any case where the President deems it practicable and necessary to meet national defense needs. Authorizes the President, in carrying out these objectives, to: (1) contract for purchases or commitments to purchase synthetic fuels and synthetic chemical feedstocks which may be for Government use or resale; and (2) encourage the development and production of such synthetic fuels and feedstocks for national defense preparedness. Terminates the President's authority to enter into such contracts at the end of fiscal year 1995. Sets forth procedures for the awarding and performance of such contracts. Authorizes the President to organize corporations to meet the production goal for synthetic fuels and feedstocks as set forth in this Act. Sets forth Congressional oversight measures with respect to the formation of such corporations. Authorizes appropriations of $2,000,000,000 for synthetic fuel and feedstock contracts as authorized pursuant to this Act. Extends specified provisions of such Act through fiscal year 1980.
United States · United States Congress · 2 May 1979
Housing and Community Development Amendments of 1979 - Title I: Community and Neighborhood Development and Conservation - Amends the Housing Act of 1964 to extend and authorize appropriations for the rehabilitation loan program through fiscal year 1980. Extends the intergovernmental program of comprehensive planning for the acquisition of sites for and construction of public buildings under the Housing Act of 1954 through fiscal year 1980. Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 to increase the authorization of appropriations for grant and supplemental grant assistance to State and local community development programs. Provides for a pro rata distribution of funds among programs to meet all basic grant and hold-harmless entitlement needs in the event of a funding deficiency in fiscal year 1980. Removes statutory restrictions based on census statistics defining the authority of the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to waive procedural requirements in awarding grants. Stipulates that in addition to the National Environmental Protection Act of 1969 environmental protection measures must be carried out in order for the Secretary to release funds to applicants for projects. Title II: Housing Assistance Programs - Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to authorize appropriations for annual contributions to low-income housing projects and operating services through fiscal year 1980. Amends the Housing and Community Development Amendments of 1978 to authorize appropriations for operating assistance for troubled multifamily housing projects through fiscal year 1980. Requires the utilization of amounts in the reserve fund created from excess rental charges by owners of housing projects receiving interest reduction payments under the National Housing Act. Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to set forth: (1) new limits on the percentage of a family's income which may be required as rent for low-income housing; (2) criteria for tenant selection; (3) requirements for the maintenance of the low-income character of certain assisted housing projects; and (4) provisions for the distribution of unexpended operating subsidies. Directs the Secretary in making rent supplement assistance available under the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1965 to give priority to individuals or families who are occupying substandard housing or are involuntarily displaced at the time they are seeking housing assistance. Amends the National Housing Act to direct the Secretary in making homeownership assistance payments to lower income mortgagees, to give preference to assisting low-income families in acquiring a condominium unit or membership in a cooperative association. Provides for displaced tenants in HUD-owned projects. Title III: Program Amendments and Extensions - Amends the National Housing Act to extend the following mortgage insurance programs of the Federal Housing Administration: (1) housing renovation and modernization; (2) general insurance authorization; (3) housing for moderate income and displaced families; (4) membership in cooperative associations for lower income families; (5) rental housing for low-income families; (6) coinsurance mortgages; (7) experimental housing; (8) armed services housing; (9) group practice facilities and medical practice facilities; (10) new communities; and (11) crime and riot reinsurance. Permits the Secretary to insure, on a permanent basis, mortgages and loans with provisions for varying rates of amortization through fiscal year 1980. Extends the Emergency Home Purchase Assistance program through fiscal year 1980. Amends the National Housing Act to authorize the Secretary, as an alternative to the acquisition of an insured mortgage to avoid foreclosure, to make all or part of the monthly payments due on an insured mortgage of a one-to four-family residence necessary to avoid default caused by circumstances beyond the mortgagor's control. Stipulates that all payments shall be secured by a lien on the property and by such other obligation as the Secretary may require. Stipulates that such payments may be provided for a period of up to 18 months. Allows payments to be discontinued at any time because the mortgagor's financial circumstances have changed, the payments are no longer necessary, or the prospect of payments and repayments is no longer reasonable. Terminates the authority to make such payments on September 30, 1981. Authorizes appropriations for research and demonstration housing projects through fiscal year 1980. Amends the National Housing Act to authorize appropriations, without limitation, to cover losses sustained by the General Insurance Fund. Extends the authority of the Secretary to issue obligations to finance housing programs for the elderly and handicapped under the Housing Act of 1959. Extends the authority of the Secretary to insure mortgages under the National Housing Act by including dwellings covered by a consumer protection or warranty plan. Authorizes the appropriation of a specified amount to carry out the activities of the National Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation for fiscal year 1980. Directs the Secretary to study the relative risks of loss connected with the classes of mortgages insured under the National Housing Act. States that such study is for the purpose of determining the advisability of reducing related mortgage insurance premiums. Amends the National Housing Act to: (1) exempt insured loans, mortgages, or advances from State usury laws; and (2) increase Federal Housing Administration mortgage limits for insurance eligibility. Increases to 75 percent in any geographical area the amount of: (1) rental housing insurance; (2) cooperative housing insurance; (3) rehabilitation and neighborhood conservation housing insurance; (4) moderate income and displaced family housing insurance; (5) housing for the elderly mortgage insurance; and (6) multifamily condominium mortgage insurance. Increases the limit on loans for mobile homes and lots with respect to credit insurance of financial institutions. Allows the Government National Mortgage Association to purchase a mortgage with an original principal obligation that exceeds the otherwise applicable maximum amount per dwelling unit if the mortgage is a moderate income and displaced family housing insured mortgage and at least 20 percent of the units covered by such mortgage are assisted under contracts authorized by the United States Housing Act. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1980 for the Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation. Allows up to ten percent of the assistance available under the Neighborhood Self-Help Development Act of 1978 to be used for uncertified projects demonstrating innovative means of assisting in neighborhood conservation and revitalization. Amends the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation Act to permit securities sold, issued, or guaranteed by the Corporation to be lawful investments and accepted as security for all fiduciary trusts and public funds. Title IV: Interstate Land Sales - Amends the Interstate Land Sales Full Disclosure Act to outline specified exemptions from the provisions of such Act including provisions requiring registration and disclosure of the sale or lease of lots in subdivisions of specified size. Sets forth requirements relating to the sale or lease of lots if a mobile home is to be erected as a primary residence. Makes it unlawful for any developer or agent to deceive or in any way defraud a purchaser or lessee of a lot. Provides for civil relief by a purchaser or lessee for any such unlawful act. Permits the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to certify as equivalent to the Federal law any State land sale disclosure law which is substantially equivalent to the Interstate Land Sales Full Disclosure law. Authorizes the Secretary to issue a cease and desist order to any agent or developer believed to be engaging in any unlawful act or practice. Sets forth criminal penalties for any willful violation of this Act. Allows any State attorney general to bring a civil action as parens patriae on behalf of individuals residing in such State, in any appropriate United State district court. Requires the Secretary to submit to the Congress biennially a report on the administration of this Act and its impact upon the land development industry and purchasers and lessees of undeveloped land. Title V: Rural Housing - Amends the Housing Act of 1949 to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 1980 for farm and rural housing programs as follows: (1) loans to provide occupant owned, rental, and cooperative housing for low-and moderate-income families; (2) insured loans for housing for domestic farm labor; (3) notes and other obligations for loan funds; (4) loans and grants for repairs or improvements of rural dwellings; (5) financial assistance to provide low-rent housing for domestic farm labor; (6) technical services and research for new buildings and repairs; (7) escrow accounts for taxes, insurance, and other expenses; (8) grants and loans for the development of technical and supervisory assistance programs in rural areas with Federal, State, and local housing program for low-income families; and (9) mutual self-help housing programs in rural areas and small towns. Authorizes such sums as may be required to provide safe, sanitary housing for low-income families, to conduct economic surveys for a sound mortgage market, and to reimburse the Rural Housing Insurance Fund. Extends the authority of the Secretary of Agriculture to insure loans which provide rental and cooperative housing for the elderly or others of low-and moderate-incomes and to insure and make loans for housing and buildings on farms owned by low or moderate income families. Stipulates that the Secretary shall determine the rate of interest on occupant owned, rental, and cooperative housing loans. Defines the terms "persons and families of low income" for purposes of this Act. Provides for the repayment and refinancing of loans for housing for the elderly and families of low income and for domestic farm labor. Permits the Secretary to make or insure loans for 40 percent of the units in multifamily cooperative or rental housing projects. Authorizes the Secretary to assist in providing technical assistance and counseling to recipients who are delinquent with the repayment of any loan made, insured, or guaranteed under the Housing Act of 1949 and to those who need assistance in financial management, home maintenance, and related matters. Includes among the administrative powers of the Secretary the authority to repair and rehabilitate property pledged or mortgaged under the Housing Act of 1949 and purchased by the Secretary at any foreclosure. Makes provisions for the payment by the Secretary out of the Rural Housing Insurance Fund for the correction of, or compensation to homeowners for significant construction defects in certain newly constructed, assisted homes. Amends the Housing Act of 1949 to allow the Secretary to make loans for the acquisition and development of land for use as sites on which residential structures will be built without regard to whether such structures will be eligible for assistance under any Federal, State, or local law. Stipulates that such loans shall bear interest at a rate equal to the market rate for comparable loans, as determined by the Secretary.
United States · United States Congress · 25 April 1979
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to deny a tax exclusion of the interest on State and local mortgage subsidy bonds (except those bonds issued to finance housing for veterans). Defines "mortgage subsidy bonds" as bonds which are issued to provide funding for mortgages on owner-occupied residences. Limits the issuance of industrial development bonds for housing purposes to low-or moderate-income rental housing.
United States · United States Congress · 24 April 1979
Federally Funded Construction Contract Act of 1979 - Amends the Davis-Bacon Act to stipulate that the minimum wages for workers under a construction contract entered into by the United States or the District of Columbia exceeding $2,000 (hereinafter referred to as a "contract") shall be based on prevailing rates for employees performing similar work in the county where the construction is performed (as determined by the Secretary of Labor). Requires the contractor to notify each employee of such wages on the employee's first day of work. Eliminates provisions governing the method and frequency of payment of wages. Directs each executive department and agency which administers a Federal financial assistance program to require the applicant for assistance to incorporate the provisions of this Act into any such a contract to be funded by such assistance. Prohibits any contractor who enters into a federally funded construction contract from paying workers less than: (1) the minimum wage specified under the Fair Labor Standards Act; or (2) the wages and fringe benefits provided in the collective bargaining agreement applicable to corresponding classes of employees in the county. Provides for the review of the Secretary's determination of prevailing rate wages when there is a substantial difference between the wages which actually prevail in the county and the wages under such a collective bargaining agreement which covers less than 30 percent of the similar employees in the county. Makes each agency responsible for obtaining compliance with the orders of the Secretary concerning a contract entered into by the agency or its contractors. Authorizes the Secretary to investigate any such contractor. Prohibits barring a contractor from obtaining Federally funded contracts without affording the contractor an opportunity for a hearing concerning any violation of a provision of this Act. States that the contractors shall be liable for any underpayment of employee compensation in violation of this Act. Specifies conditions under which an employee may commence an action against a contractor in a United States district court. States that this Act supercedes all other provisions of Federal law providing for the inclusion of minimum wages in such a contract.
United States · United States Congress · 10 April 1979
Amends the Interstate Land Sales Full Disclosure Act to outline specified exemptions from the provisions of such Act including provisions requiring registration and disclosure of the sale or lease of lots in certain subdivisions. Makes it unlawful for any developer or agent to deceive or in any way defraud a purchaser or lessee of a lot. Sets forth requirements relating to the sale or lease of lots including, but not limited to, the provision that contracts or agreements shall clearly provide the purchaser or lessee with the right to revoke the contract or agreement if a property report is required and has not been provided in advance. Permits the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to certify as equivalent to the Federal law any State land sale disclosure law which is substantially equivalent to the Interstate Land Sales Full Disclosure Act. Authorizes the Secretary to issue a cease and desist order to any agent or developer believed to be engaging in any unlawful act or practice. Provides for civil relief by a purchaser or lessee for any such unlawful act. Prescribes civil penalties for violations of this Act and increases the amount of criminal penalties which may be assessed. Allows any State attorney general to bring a civil action as parens patriae on behalf of individuals residing in such State to secure monetary or injunctive relief in any appropriate United States district court. Requires the Secretary to submit to the Congress biennially a report on the administration of this Act and its impact upon the land development industry and purchasers and lessees of undeveloped land.
United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1979
Amends the Housing Act of 1949 to authorize appropriations through fiscal year 1980 for: (1) payments on obligations issued to finance rural housing programs; and (2) assistance for low-rent housing for domestic farm labor. Extends the loan insurance programs for rural housing for the elderly and for farm buildings until 1981. Permits the extension of new loans in any fiscal year of up to $440,000,000 in aggregate principal amount for low-income individuals receiving additional assistance under the rural housing program. Authorizes assistance payments for up to 40 percent of the units in a rural multifamily housing project. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1980 for mutual and self-help housing assistance and extends such program through fiscal year 1981. Authorizes appropriations for deposits in the Self-Help Housing Land Development Fund for fiscal year 1980. Authorizes appropriations through fiscal year 1980 for grants and contracts with public and private entities providing assistance in rural housing programs. Authorizes such sums as may be necessary in fiscal year 1981 for the programs funded by this Act for fiscal year 1980.
United States · United States Congress · 20 March 1979
Housing and Community Development Amendments of 1979 - Title I: Community and Neighborhood Development and Conservation - Amends the Housing Act of 1964 to extend and authorize appropriations for the housing rehabilitation loan program through fiscal year 1981. Amends the Housing Act of 1954 to authorize appropriations through fiscal year 1981 to assist State and local governments in planning development programs. Amends the Housing and Community Development Amendments of 1978 to authorize appropriations through fiscal year 1981 for: (1) neighborhood self-help development grants; and (2) assistance to States, local governments, and other organizations for the development of artistic, cultural and historic resources under the livable cities program. Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 to: (1) increase the authorization of appropriations for supplemental grant assistance under the community development block grant program for fiscal year 1980; (2) remove statutory restrictions based on census statistics defining the authority of the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to waive procedural requirements in awarding grants; and (3) provide for a pro-rata distribution of funds among programs in the event of a funding deficiency in fiscal year 1980. Title II: Housing Assistance Programs - Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to authorize appropriations for annual contributions to low-income housing projects and operating services through fiscal year 1981. Amends the Housing and Community Development Amendments of 1978 to require rental and cooperative housing projects to be covered by an insured mortgage under the National Housing Act in order to be eligible for operating assistance. Provides for the funding of such operating assistance through fiscal year 1981 by authorizing appropriations and utilizing amounts in the reserve fund created from excess rental charges by owners of housing projects receiving interest reduction payments. Title III: Program Amendments and Extensions - Amends the National Housing Act to extend the following mortgage insurance programs of the Federal Housing Administration: (1) housing renovation and modernization; (2) general insurance authorization; (3) housing for moderate income and displaced families; (4) membership in cooperative associations for lower income families; (5) rental housing for low income families; (6) coinsurance of mortgages; (7) experimental housing; (8) armed services housing; (9) group practice facilities and medical practice facilities; (10) new communities; and (11) crime and riot reinsurance. Permits the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to insure, on a permanent basis, mortgages and loans with provisions for varying rates of amortization through fiscal year 1980. Extends the Emergency Home Purchase Assistance program through fiscal year 1980. Authorizes the Secretary, as an alternative to the acquisition of an insured mortgage to avoid foreclosure, to make all or part of the monthly payments due on an insured mortgage of a one to four family residence necessary to avoid default caused by circumstances beyond the mortgagor's control. Stipulates that such payments may be provided for a period of up to 18 months which may be extended for an additional 18 months at the discretion of the Secretary. Terminates the authority to make such payments on September 30, 1984. Authorizes the Secretary to insure mortgages involving a principal amount exceeding statutory limitations by up to 25 percent, if the Secretary determines such action is necessary to enable low-income families to remain homeowners in an area undergoing significant revitalization. Authorizes appropriations for research and demonstration housing projects through fiscal year 1981. Amends the National Housing Act to authorize appropriations, without limitation, to cover losses sustained by the General Insurance Fund. Extends the authority of the Secretary to issue obligations to finance housing programs for the elderly and handicapped. Repeals the provision of the Department of Housing and Urban Development Act which delays the effective date of a regulation promulgated by the Secretary until 90 days from congressional committee action on legislation which would modify or invalidate such regulation.
![Official portrait of Rep. Ashley, Thomas L. [D-OH-9]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/a000222_200.jpg)