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United States · Official source
2,178 records where Rep. Bates, Jim [D-CA-44] is listed as a sponsor, author, or other actor. Search with topics and years
United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1988
Designates the week of May 1 through May 7, 1988, as Students for Child Survival Week.
United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1988
Postal Reorganization Act of 1988 - Declares that the receipts and disbursements of the Postal Service Fund: (1) shall not be included in the totals of the Federal budget or the congressional budget; (2) shall be exempt from Federal budget limitations on expenditures and net lending; and (3) shall not be counted for purposes of calculating the Federal deficit. Repeals certain limitations on postal borrowing authority. Increases the limitations on postal borrowing authority.
United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1988
National Appliance Energy Conservation Amendments of 1988 - Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to include fluorescent lamp ballasts within the list of products covered by the Act. Directs the Secretary of Energy to prescribe by July 1, 1989, test procedures for such ballasts manufactured on or after January 1, 1990. Directs the Federal Trade Commission to prescribe labeling rules for such ballasts according to specified guidelines. Sets forth energy efficiency standards for such ballasts. Preempts State energy conservation standards for such ballasts unless such standards were prescribed or enacted before the date of enactment of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 14 March 1988
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that FY 1989 funding for Federal-aid highway and mass transit programs should be at levels established by the Surface Transportation and Uniform Relocation Assistance Act of 1987.
United States · United States Congress · 10 March 1988
AIDS Health Care Financing Act of 1988 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA), and the Public Health Service Act to extend the maximum required period of continuation coverage of group health plans from 18 months to 29 months for an individual determined, under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) or title XVI (Supplemental Security Income) of the Social Security Act, to have been disabled at the time of termination or reduction in hours. Increases the premium which plans are permitted to require for continuation coverage from 102 percent to 152 percent of the applicable premium for the period for any month after the 18th month of continuation coverage after terminations, reduced hours, or multiple qualifying events. Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to permit States to pay expenses of an individual eligible for benefits under its plan for premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, or similar costs for health coverage offered by the individual's employer, including continuation coverage. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to provide for a three-year program of grants to States to assist in paying premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, and similar costs for continuation coverage for individuals who were disabled at the time of termination of employment. Sets forth reporting requirements. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1989 through 1991. Provides that when the Secretary allows a State Medicaid plan to provide for payment for individuals with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) or an AIDS-related condition, for home or community-based services such as home health care, personal care services, case management services, outpatient mental health treatment, and outpatient substance abuse treatment, the Federal medical assistance percentage shall not be less than 75 percent. Declares that nothing in title XIX of the Social Security Act shall be construed as preventing a State from establishing differential payment rates for providers to reflect the additional costs of providing services to patients with AIDS or an AIDS-related condition. Directs the Secretary to provide for up to four Regional AIDS Treatment Demonstration Projects for individuals with AIDS and AIDS-related conditions in areas which do not have a disproportionate number of such individuals. Requires the projects to incorporate innovative approaches to the delivery of necessary services, particularly focusing on community-based services. Requires each project to provide for case management services and community-based services. Sets forth considerations in selection of projects. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1989 through 1991. Sets forth reporting requirements. Directs the Secretary to establish up to six Demonstration HIV Monitoring and Treatment Centers for individuals diagnosed as infected with a virus related to the development of AIDS but who have not developed AIDS. Sets forth terms and conditions relating to the imposition of charges for services, the development of model clinical treatment plans, and confidentiality of records. Sets forth reporting requirements. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1989 through 1991. Directs the Secretary to provide financial assistance to up to four local projects which have established AIDS prevention and treatment services to permit the projects to assist entities in developing and establishing similar local projects in other areas. Allows the assistance to be used for staff, overhead, and the preparation and reproduction of educational materials. Prohibits use of the assistance for AIDS prevention and treatment services. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1989 through 1991. Directs the Secretary to provide financial assistance to local governments which demonstrate a disproportionate share of: (1) residents with AIDS or an AIDS-related condition; or (2) expenditures from local funds for treatment of such syndrome or condition. Sets forth reporting requirements. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1989 through 1991.
United States · United States Congress · 9 March 1988
Employer Reversion Moratorium Act of 1988 - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 to prohibit distributions to an employer, before October 1, 1989, of plan assets in connection with any single-employer defined benefit plan termination announced on or after March 9, 1988. Makes plan fiduciaries jointly and severally liable for breach of fiduciary duty unless assets distributed upon plan termination are either distributed to plan participants and beneficiaries or paid into a trust whose terms provide for final disposition in accordance with applicable law in effect on October 1, 1989. Requires the dissolution of such a trust and the distribution of its assets during the month of October 1989.
United States · United States Congress · 9 March 1988
Department of Energy Nuclear Facilities Safety Act of 1988 - Establishes the Federal Facilities Nuclear Safety Board (the Board) as an independent body in the executive branch. Empowers the Board to: (1) review and evaluate health and safety standards at each Department of Energy (Department) nuclear facility; (2) investigate events or practices at each facility which may adversely affect public safety; (3) review a facility's design and construction as it pertains to public health and safety; and (4) recommend to the Secretary of Energy (the Secretary) the health and safety measures needed to ensure adequate protection of the public. Grants the Board access to Department nuclear facility design and operational data. Authorizes the Board to: (1) establish reporting requirements which shall be binding upon the Secretary; and (2) enter into agreements with the National Research Council of the National Academy of Sciences (and non-Federal experts) to evaluate differences between Nuclear Regulatory Commission regulations and Department orders governing nuclear facilities. Requires the Secretary to cooperate fully with the Board and provide it ready access to facilities, personnel, and information requested by the Board to implement its mandate. Sets forth guidelines under which the Board's recommendations and the Secretary's decision to accept or reject them shall be publicized in the Federal Register and reported in writing to the Congress. Requires the Secretary to prepare plans to implement recommendations. Sets forth a review procedure for Board recommendations regarding a severe or imminent threat to public health and safety. Requires implementation of any such recommendations which the Secretary accepts. Requires the Board and the Secretary to report annually to the Congress regarding their respective activities. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1989 through 1993.
United States · United States Congress · 9 March 1988
Designates the week of November 6 through November 12, 1988, as National Women Veterans Recognition Week.
United States · United States Congress · 9 March 1988
Declares that the President should: (1) posthumously award the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Charles E. Thornton, Lee Shapiro, and Jim Lindelof in honor of their efforts to document the Afghan struggle for freedom; and (2) present the award to those individuals' families on March 21, 1988, the start of the new year in Afghanistan.
United States · United States Congress · 7 March 1988
Telemarketing Fraud Prevention Act of 1988 - Amends the Federal Trade Commission Act to authorize both citizen suits and civil actions on behalf of a State for relief against entities engaging in telemarketing fraud or dishonest acts or practices. Prescribes the general framework to govern such suits. Directs the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to promulgate rules to govern telemarketing activities. Describes required contents of such rules, including mandatory notice to telemarketing recipients concerning refunds for untimely delivery of the product or service. Provides for rescission of a sale within three days after a sales agreement. Requires that the rules include a rebuttable presumption that a telemarketing entity that does not keep adequate records illustrating compliance will be considered in violation. Declares that violators shall be considered to have engaged in an unfair or deceptive trade practice. Prohibits telemarketing conduct whose natural consequence is to harass, oppress, or abuse, and considers violators to have engaged in an unfair or deceptive trade practice. Directs the FTC to establish a clearinghouse for inquiries made to Federal agencies concerning telemarketing.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1988
Makes specified congressional findings regarding the constitutionality of the Anti-Terrorism Act of 1987. (Such Act prohibits the Palestine Liberation Organization from establishing or maintaining an office in the United States.) Repeals such Act.
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1988
Nuclear Whistleblowers Protection Act Amendments of 1988 - Amends the Energy Reorganization Act of 1974 to prohibit employee reprisals for whistle blowing where an employee has: (1) notified the employer of a statutory violation; (2) opposed any unlawful practice; or (3) testified at any Federal or State proceeding regarding a statutory provision. Revises the definition of "employer" to include: (1) the Department of Energy; and (2) a contractor operating a Department of Energy facility. Extends from 30 days to one year the time period for filing an employee reprisal complaint. Provides that the remedies available to a complainant under other laws are not preempted by the remedies available under this Act. Requires the prominent posting of the provisions of this Act in any place of employment to which it applies. Authorizes the appropriate authorities to grant injunctive relief, compensatory damages, and exemplary damages. Sets forth sanctions for frivolous complaints.
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1988
Emergency Hunger Relief Act of 1988 - Title I: Family Self Sufficiency Improvement - Subtitle A: Food Stamp Program - Amends the Food Stamp Act of 1977 to increase the minimum food stamp program (program) allotments by one percent for the period January 1, 1989, through September 30, 1989, and by one percent during FY 1990. Amends the definition of "household" to repeal the provision providing separate household status for certain parents of minor children and for such children. Makes permanent categorical program eligibility based on eligibility for specified social security programs. Provides an additional excess shelter deduction. States that: (1) households not required to submit monthly income reports shall have their income calculated on a prospective basis; and (2) households required to submit monthly income reports shall have their income calculated on a retrospective basis, except under specified circumstances. Repeals the requirement of prior approval by the Secretary of Agriculture for less than monthly income reporting of certain household. Prohibits a state agency from requiring periodic reporting of households: (1) made up entirely of migrant or seasonal farm workers; (2) made up entirely of homeless persons; or (3) with no earned income and in which all adult members are elderly or disabled. Requires that households reporting monthly be provided with clear and understandable reporting forms. Adjusts the automobile limitation to reflect Consumer Price Index changes. Provides full program benefits for breaks in certification of 30 days or less. Permits households subject to benefit prorating to receive an aggregate benefit allotment. Extends the scope of program informational activities. Amends the HOmeless Eligibility Clarification Act to make permanent the authority for homeless persons in shelters to receive food stamps. Subtitle B: Related Programs - Amends the Temporary Emergency Food Assistance Act of 1983, as amended by the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act, to extend the temporary emergency food assistance program (TEFAP) through FY 1990. Increases the amount of TEFAP funds for emergency feeding organizations. Amends the Community Services Block Grant Act to authorize appropriations through FY 1993 for the community food and nutrition program. Directs the Secretary to: (1) conduct a study (through the National Academy of Sciences) of the kinds of medical problems commonly suffered by program participants and the resulting special diets; and (2) report to the Congress. Title II: Child Nutrition Promotion - Amends the Food Stamps Act of 1977 to exclude foster care and adoption assistance from program income determinations. Amends the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 to increase the school breakfast program reimbursement rate by three cents per meal as of July 1, 1989. Amends the National School Lunch Act to permit specified private nonprofit organizations to participate in the summer food program. Provides an additional meal or snack to children who attend day care centers which are open more than eight hours a day. Repeals the provision tying reduced price lunch eligibility to program eligibility. Title III: Effective Date - Sets forth the effective dates for provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1988
Medicaid Infant Mortality Amendments of 1988 - Title I: Medicaid Coverage of Pregnant Women and Infants - Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to require States to cover pregnant women and infants under age one whose family income is below the Federal poverty level. Prohibits States from: (1) imposing a resource eligibility test on pregnant women and infants which is more restrictive than a resource eligibility test imposed under title XVI (Supplemental Security Income) of the the Act; or (2) reducing payment levels under part A (Aid to Families with Dependent Children) of title IV of the Act below the levels in effect on July 1, 1987. Requires that eligible pregnant women continue to receive Medicaid coverage through the month in which the 60th day following the end of pregnancy falls without regard to changes in family income. Title II: Promoting Medicaid Coverage of Pregnant Women and Infants - Reimburses States, at the Federal Medicaid assistance percentage, for outreach services identifying poor pregnant women and infants and assisting them in applying for Medicaid coverage. Requires that States make ambulatory prenatal care available to pregnant women during a presumptive eligibility period. Alters the rules for determining when such period ends. Makes clarification amendments regarding the qualifications of providers of covered ambulatory prenatal care. Title III: Assuring Payment for Necessary Services for Pregnant Women and Infants - Requires States to submit to the Secretary of Health and Human Services, by April 1 each year, information pertaining to the supply of and demands for obstetrical services and proposed Medicaid payment rates for such services so that the Secretary may determine whether such rates are sufficient to ensure that obstetrical services will be at least as available to Medicaid beneficiaries as they are to the general population. Requires States to immediately revise rates determined to be insufficient. Directs States to: (1) establish exceptions to durational limits on Medicaid coverage of medically necessary inpatient hospital services furnished to infants in disproportionate share hospitals; and (2) adjust payments to such hospitals to take into account exceptionally costly and lengthy inpatient hospital services for infants. Title IV: Medicaid Relationship with Special Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) - Requires States to: (1) coordinate Medicaid services with the special supplemental food program's services for women, infants, and children under the Child Nutrition Act of 1966; and (2) notify Medicaid-eligible pregnant, breastfeeding or postpartum women and children under age five of the special supplemental food program benefits.
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1988
Designates the period beginning May 16 and ending May 22, 1988, as National Safe Kids Week.
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1988
Women in Development Act of 1988 - Requires the Administrator of the Agency for International Development (AID) to take specific steps to strengthen the Agency's women in development policy, including: (1) incorporating the active participation of local women and local women's organizations in its development activities; (2) instructing Agency staff and contractors to collect sex-disaggregated data and to insure that country strategies, projects, and programs are designed so that the percentage of women receiving assistance in proportion to the higher of their traditional participation in the targeted activities or their proportion of the population; (3) insuring that project and program evaluations include an assessment of the extent to which the project integrates women in the development process and of the project's impact on women; (4) increasing the number and responsibility of women in professional positions within AID; and (5) establishing within AID a task force on women in development. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to require that a minimum (currently, maximum) of $10,000,000 in funds made available for foreign assistance programs be used for programs to promote the participation and integration of women in the development process in developing countries. Requires the Administrator to report to the Congress annually on the implementation of this Act. Authorizes appropriations to be made available for the United Nations Development Fund for Women and the United Nations International Research and Training Institute for the Advancement of Women.
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1988
Fair Food Labeling and Advertising Act - Title I: Labeling Requirements - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to establish labeling requirements for foods which are labeled "lite" or "light" and for foods which make similar comparative claims to describe reduced fat, sodium, or calorie content. Exempts certain small enterprises from such requirements. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to promulgate regulations to implement the requirements of this Act and to define the term "low fat" within nine months of the date of enactment of this Act. Amends the Federal Meat Inspection Act and the Poultry Products Inspection Act to establish similar labeling requirements for prepared meat products and poultry, with the same exemption for small enterprises. Amends the Federal Alcohol Administration Act to establish labeling requirements for claims of "lite" or "light" or claims related to calorie content for malt beverages, wine, and other distilled spirits. Title II: Advertising Requirements - Amends the Federal Trade Commission Act to provide that advertising of any of the aforementioned products which does not comply with such labeling requirements shall be considered false advertising.
United States · United States Congress · 29 February 1988
Amends the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act to direct the Secretary of Transportation to arrange with the National Academy of Sciences to study the efficacy of State motor vehicle safety inspection programs regarding highway accidents and unsafe vehicles. Outlines the parameters of such study and the persons to be consulted. Requires the Academy to report the study results to specified congressional committees. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 25 February 1988
Repeals a provision of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1987 which includes employee tips within the wages on which employer social security taxes are based.
United States · United States Congress · 25 February 1988
Designates the month of October 1988 as Polish American Heritage Month.
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1988
Medical Rehabilitation Research Act of 1988 - Amends title IV (National Research Institutes) of the Public Health Service Act to establish the National Center for Medical Rehabilitation Research (Center) as an agency of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to conduct research, research training, the dissemination of information, and other programs with respect to the rehabilitation of individuals with physical disabilities resulting from diseases or disorders of the neurological, musculoskeletal, or cardiovascular system (medical rehabilitation). Requires the NIH Director to develop and annually review a comprehensive plan for the conduct and support of medical rehabilitation research. Requires the Director to establish the Medical Rehabilitation Coordinating Committee to make recommendations with regard to the plan. Requires establishment of the Medical Rehabilitation Advisory Council to assist and make recommendations to the NIH Director and the Center Director. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1989 through 1991. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services and the heads of other Federal agencies to jointly review programs concerning medical rehabilitation research and, not later than one year after the effective date of this Act, enter into agreements for preventing duplication.
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1988
Expresses disapproval of the refusal of the U.S.S.R. to recognize the sovereignty of the Baltic Republics. Designates June 14, 1988, as Baltic Freedom Day. Authorizes and requests the President to submit the issue of the Baltic Republics to the United Nations.
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1988
Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior, in order to provide for water conservation, to: (1) construct a new lined canal or to line the presently unlined portions of the All-American Canal of the Boulder Canyon Project; and (2) implement measures to replace incidental fish and wildlife values foregone. Provides that the water conserved by the project shall be available for beneficial consumptive use within California as specified in existing water delivery contracts. Entitles participating contractors to a proportionate share of the water conserved. Directs the Secretary to study the impact of the project on the operation and maintenance of the existing All-American Canal and its Coachella Branch and to provide for certain additional costs if necessary. Requires the cost of the project to be paid from funds advanced by the participating contractors and in accordance with terms and conditions acceptable to the Secretary. Provides that title to all constructed facilities shall rest with the United States, subject to disposal by the Secretary at his discretion as permitted under certain existing repayment contracts.
United States · United States Congress · 22 February 1988
Federal Debt Collection Procedures Act of 1988 - Title I: Federal Debt Collection Procedures Act - Establishes a uniform, nationwide system of procedures to facilitate the collection of debts owed to the United States. Provides that the United States shall not be barred by the statute of limitations of any State in the enforcement of any of its claims. Establishes a pre- and post-judgment right of discovery with respect to the financial condition of any debtor. Establishes special rules with respect to the sale of perishable property during the pendency of any proceeding to recover debts owed to the United States. Grants U.S. counsel and non-attorney debt collection personnel absolute immunity from liability arising from errors, omissions, or negligence in performing their official debt collection duties. Allows U.S. district courts to assign their duties in proceedings under this Act to U.S. magistrates. Authorizes appropriations. Permits the United States to seek any pre-judgment remedy allowed by law. Sets forth procedures to be followed by the United States under such circumstances. Establishes additional procedural requirements with respect to the attachment of property, garnishment, sequestration, and replevin. Allows the United States to apply for the appointment of a receiver for property in which it has an interest and which is or will be the subject of a court action. Sets forth the powers of the receiver. Allows the district court to enter a "judgment by confession" in favor of the United States without the filing of a civil action for money due and owing. States that a judgment creates a lien upon all the real property of a judgment debtor. Makes any person who is the subject of such a lien ineligible for Federal grants and loans. Allows the district court to order the United States to sell any real property subject to its judgment lien. Sets forth procedures for determining the applicable interest to be charged on judgments. States that such liens shall be effective for a period of 20 years. (Such liens may be renewed for one additional 20-year period.) Sets forth procedures with respect to: (1) the issuance of restraining notices; (2) the sale of real and personal property subject to levy pursuant to a writ of execution; (3) installment payments; and (4) garnishment. Grants the court power to: (1) modify the use of any enforcement procedure; (2) punish for civil and criminal contempt with respect to an enforcement procedure or order under this Act; and (3) under certain circumstances, issue a warrant for the arrest of a judgment debtor. Lists the types of property which are exempt from the enforcement procedures of this Act, which include the debtor's: (1) interest in real property used as a residence; (2) interest in one motor vehicle; and (3) right to receive social security, veterans' disability, or unemployment benefits. Places certain limitations on exempt property. Provides remedies for the fraudulent transfer of an asset by a debtor. Allows the United States to bring an action in U.S. district court to compel a partition of property among co-owners and tenants. States that Federal law shall govern: (1) any action by the United States to foreclose security interests in real property; and (2) the right of the United States to collect a deficiency following the foreclosure of a loan guaranteed or insured by the United States. Title II: Amendments to Other Legislation - Makes technical and conforming amendments to various provisions of Federal law. Authorizes appropriations for the refund of erroneously forfeited bail. Establishes in the Treasury the Department of Justice Debt Collection Fund, which shall be used to: (1) train Department personnel in debt collection; (2) provide services pertinent to debt collection; and (3) cover expenses associated with the sale of property. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1989 through 1992. Allows the court to order that criminal appearance bail bonds be applied to the payment of any assessment, fine, restitution, or penalty imposed upon the defendant.
United States · United States Congress · 22 February 1988
Designates 1988 as Fortieth Anniversary Year of the National Institute of Dental Research.
United States · United States Congress · 18 February 1988
Handgun Violence Prevention Act of 1988 - Amends the Federal criminal code to make it unlawful for any person to transfer or possess any handgun which the Secretary of the Treasury determines to be unsuitable for lawful sporting purposes.
United States · United States Congress · 18 February 1988
Designates the week beginning October 2, 1988, as Mental Illness Awareness Week.
United States · United States Congress · 17 February 1988
Universal Voter Registration Act of 1988 - Entitles any eligible individual to register for any Federal election by mail, in person, or at the appropriate polling place on the day of an election. Declares that such individual may register in person at: (1) a designated place for such individual's current address; (2) any Federal, State, county, or municipal agency that serves the public directly; or (3) any private agency that voluntarily agrees to register voters. Provides that where a State maintains a system of voter registration, such State shall allow an individual to register to vote for elections held on the date of Federal elections, in the manner provided by an approved State plan. Requires such plan to include: (1) the voter registration form to be used for mail registration; (2) provisions for distribution of such forms; (3) election day voter registration; (4) voter registration in agencies which serve the public directly and at private agencies that voluntarily agree to register voters; (5) provisions for prompt notification of registration acceptance; (6) provisions to inform registrants about voting places and times; (7) registration confirmation to insure accurate, inclusive, and uniform voter registration lists; (8) provisions with respect to registration challenges; and (9) a description of State efforts to actively increase voter registration. Requires each State to submit to the Federal Election Commission for approval a voter registration form which allows registration in person or by mail. Allows the form to be similar or identical to postcard application forms under the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act. Specifies requirements for such form, including that it provide for postage paid return delivery to the appropriate State or local official. Requires agencies subject to this Act to provide for year-round registration services. Requires State and local election officials to provide for the availability of sufficient quantities of registration forms. Requires the chief election official of a State to establish a program to confirm voter registration. Sets forth requirements for such program, including: (1) notification systems concerning deaths and changes of address; (2) non-removal from a voter registration list unless a voter has died, changed residence to another jurisdiction, been convicted of a criminal offense or institutionalized for mental incapacity, or requested removal; and (3) voter registration lists comprising eligible voters, voters whose registration cannot be confirmed and whose eligibility may be challenged on election day, and individuals who have been removed from such list not more than four years before the date of the election. Sets forth provisions for challenging election votes, including the use of an affidavit ballot for the challenged voter. Declares that voter registration requirements shall not apply to any State which: (1) provides for voter registration procedures which meet or exceed the standards for State plans; (2) does not require voter registration; or (3) adopts the Federal postcard application form. Requires individuals who register to vote on an election day to establish their identity, place of residence, and qualifications at the time of such registration. Requires each polling place to provide a means of processing such registrants separately from other voters. Authorizes the Federal Election Commission to administer this Act and to provide advice and technical assistance to States. Requires the Commission to report to the Congress every two years on: (1) the effectiveness of efforts to establish and maintain voter registration procedures; (2) the administration of voter registration programs; and (3) recommendations on national voter registration standards. Declares any order of the Commission under this Act to be reviewable by the appropriate U.S. court of appeals. Provides that the appellee shall not be liable for costs. Directs the Commission to make grants to the chief election official of a State which has an approved plan for establishing voter registration programs. Requires such grants to be made to enable and encourage States to computerize voter registration lists and to undertake alternative methods of voter registration. Authorizes the Commission to establish an advisory council of State and local election officials to advise States about voter registration systems. Requires the Commission to develop a formula for the allocation of funds to States and to allocate or reallocate such funds. Requires a State to submit a plan for voter registration to the Commission within two years of enactment of this Act. Requires the Commission to publish proposed regulations for an implementation plan, or portion thereof, for any State which fails to submit a plan or for any State plan determined not to meet the requirements under this Act. Establishes Federal enforcement procedures and penalties for violations of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 17 February 1988
Designates April 21, 1988, as John Muir Day, marking the 150th birthday of American conservationist John Muir.
United States · United States Congress · 9 February 1988
Defense Supplies Security and Control Reform Act of 1988 - Title I: Supply Inventory Management Studies, Demonstration Project, and Modernization Plan - Directs the Secretary of Defense: (1) no later than one year after the enactment of this Act, to carry out a study to determine the effectiveness of Department of Defense (DOD) procedures for ensuring the security and control of supplies at DOD depots; and (2) no later than 18 months after the enactment of this Act, to report to the Senate and House Armed Services Committees (the defense committees) on the results of the study, and to provide the Comptroller General a copy of such report. Directs the Comptroller General to review such report, and to submit his or her findings and recommendations concerning such report to the defense committees. Authorizes appropriations. Directs the Secretary to: (1) conduct a cost-benefit analysis of the practice of selling surplus DOD munitions to the public; (2) develop improved methods for the identification and accounting of individual DOD munitions items; and (3) prepare a plan for the modernization of the supply facilities and distribution procedures of the military departments and defense agencies of DOD. Requires reports by the Secretary to the defense committees. Title II: Supply Security and Control Improvements - Directs the Secretary, not later than February 1 annually, to report to the defense committees on the security and control of supplies. Outlines information to be included in each such report, including inventory program plans, deficiencies discovered, and an evaluation of the effectiveness of the current system of supply inventory security and control. Directs the Secretary to require an investigation of each discrepancy in an accounting for supplies of DOD involving an amount to be prescribed by the Secretary. Directs the Secretary to require, to the extent feasible, that defense supply ordering and receiving functions be performed by different offices and individuals. Requires the Secretary to ensure that an individual's performance in accounting for defense supplies is taken into account in evaluating job performance, rating efficiency, or determining fitness for retention, promotion, or assignment to a position of command. Requires the Secretary to ensure that DOD employees and armed forces members performing defense supply functions are skilled in such positions and are not performing such functions merely for disciplinary reasons. Title III: Law Enforcement Enhancement Provisions - Urges the Secretary to continue to utilize undercover investigative techniques to detect and investigate thefts of Government property, including munitions, from the DOD supply system. Directs the Secretary to establish and maintain a centralized computer system for recording and organizing such investigative information. Amends the Federal criminal code to direct the Secretary to report the theft or other loss of any DOD supply to the Secretary of the Treasury within 24 hours after discovery. Provides that it shall be unlawful for any licensed importer, manufacturer, or other person to place a U.S. military model or serial number on any firearm unless such firearm is being imported or manufactured for use by the United States. Revises Federal provisions relating to the offenses of: (1) attempted embezzlement of public money, property, or records; and (2) purchase or receipt of military, naval, or veterans' facilities property. Provides that, upon the conviction of a person for the theft of Government property, any Federal benefits payable to him or her may be reduced, or (if the total value involved in the theft exceeds $500) terminated.
United States · United States Congress · 4 February 1988
Amends rule XXI of the Rules of the House of Representatives to prohibit appropriations in continuing resolutions for any program, project, or activity not previously authorized by law. Prohibits appropriations in continuing resolutions for all or part of a fiscal year for funding any program, project, or activity at a level greater than its level of funding for the immediately preceding fiscal year.
United States · United States Congress · 3 February 1988
Atomic Energy Law Enforcement Act of 1988 - Specifies that the proposed Agreement for Cooperation between the Government of the United States and the Government of Japan Concerning Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy shall not become effective unless: (1) the President resubmits the Agreement to the Congress pursuant to procedures required by the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 with an exemption from the requirements of the Act concerning nuclear safeguards; and (2) the Congress enacts a joint resolution stating that it favors the Agreement.
United States · United States Congress · 2 February 1988
Community Housing Partnership Act - Title I: Housing Education and Organizational Support Grants for Community Based Housing Projects - Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to provide housing education and organizational support grants directly to nonprofit organizations or indirectly to States and cities to assist such organizations. Authorizes permanent appropriations beginning with FY 1989. Title II: Community Housing and Partnership Grants - Authorizes the Secretary to provide community partnership grants directly to nonprofit organizations or indirectly to States and cities to assist such organizations. Divides appropriations among: (1) urban community housing partnership grants (60 percent); (2) State community housing partnership grants (30 percent); and (3) direct community housing partnership grants (ten percent). Sets forth the following eligible activities: (1) technical assistance and site control loans; (2) seed-money loans; (3) matching grants or loans; and (4) program-wide technical and management assistance for nonprofit sponsors. Sets forth rental project and home ownership eligibility provisions, including: (1) occupancy by lower income families; (2) profit limitations; (3) funding coordination; (4) tax treatment; and (5) affirmative action requirements. Authorizes permanent appropriations beginning with FY 1989. Title III: General Provisions - Defines specified terms for purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 2 February 1988
Designates the week beginning April 24, 1988, as Mining Awareness Week.
United States · United States Congress · 2 February 1988
Expresses the sense of the Congress that if Japanese nationals take whales pursuant to a proposal submitted in October 1987 to the International Whaling Commission before the Commission approves such proposal, the Secretary of Commerce should issue a certification under the Magnuson Fishery Conservation and Management Act that such taking diminishes the effectiveness of the International Convention for the Regulation of Whaling (thus requiring the Secretary of State to reduce the fishery allocation for Japan).
United States · United States Congress · 28 January 1988
Requires that amounts withheld by an employer from an absent parent's wages for child support enforcement purposes under part D (Child Support and Establishment of Paternity) of title IV of the Social Security Act be paid to the appropriate State agency or entity within ten days after the payment of such wages. Imposes a late payment fee on employers who do not meet such deadline.
United States · United States Congress · 28 January 1988
Designates May 2 through May 8, 1988, as Public Service Recognition Week.
United States · United States Congress · 28 January 1988
Expresses the sense of the Congress that: (1) it is U.S. policy to support the indefinite cessation of all commercial whaling adopted by the International Whaling Commission and to promote the protection of the world's whale populations; (2) all countries should adhere to the indefinite cessation of the commercial killing of whales; and (3) the United States should encourage other parties to the International Convention for the Regulation of Whaling to impose sanctions on any country engaging in activities which diminish the effectiveness of the Convention.
United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1988
Dairy Production Termination Enforcement Act of 1988 - Amends the Agricultural Act of 1949 to make jointly liable with the producer for program violations any person who: (1) acquires, and uses or makes available for milk production, any milk production capacity idled under a dairy termination program producer contract; and (2) knows that the producer is prohibited from making the facility available to another person. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to notify each facility owner regarding program compliance.
United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1988
Postal Service Disadvantaged Business Procurement Act of 1988 - Establishes in the United States Postal Service an Office of Disadvantaged Business Utilization to implement the goals, objectives, and purposes of this Act. Provides for the Office to be headed by a Director of Disadvantaged Business Utilization (Director). Requires the Postmaster General, after consultation with the Director, to establish annual goals for the participation by disadvantaged business concerns in procurement contracts of the Postal Service. Requires goals for prime contract awards of not less than: (1) ten percent for disadvantaged business concerns owned and controlled by other than women; and (2) five percent for disadvantaged business concerns owned and controlled by women. Sets forth the procurement authorities of the Postal Service so that it can assure that a fair proportion of total purchases for contracts for property and services are placed with disadvantaged business concerns. Authorizes the Postal Service to set aside or reduce procurement requirements for such concerns. Authorizes the Postal Service to enter into single-source negotiations with disadvantaged business concerns for the award of any contract under specified circumstances. Requires such contracts to result in a cost to the Postal Service that is fair and reasonable and that does not exceed the estimated current fair market price of the work to be performed. Entitles a disadvantaged business concern, if the Postal Service withdraws a procurement requirement because the prices offered by the concern exceed the current fair market price: (1) to a written statement, upon its request, from the Postal Service on the method used to estimate the current fair market price; and (2) to protest the use of such method to the Director. Declares the Director's decision on the protest to be conclusive. Prohibits a procurement officer from precluding any disadvantaged business concern or group of concerns from being awarded a contract on any basis dealing with the responsibility of the offeror without referring the matter for a final disposition to the Director. Requires the Postal Service to provide for prompt and expeditious payments due to disadvantaged business concerns. Requires the Postal Service to require its prime contractors to ensure timely payments to such concerns. Requires a clause in all Postal Service contracts that states the policy of the Postal Service with respect to small business concerns owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, and that the contractor agrees with such policy. Exempts from such requirement any contract which: (1) does not exceed $10,000; (2) will be performed outside the United States (and all the subcontracts under such contract); or (3) is for personal services. Requires certain contracts which are awarded through other than the sealed bid method of procurement to contain a clause notifying potential offering companies of the provisions of this Act relating to such contracts. Requires the apparent successful offeror to negotiate with the procurement authority a subcontracting plan with specified contents before the Postal Service awards any contract, or any amendment or modification to any contract already let, which: (1) is to be awarded, or was let, through other than the sealed bid method of procurement; (2) is required to include the clause on Postal Service policy with respect to disadvantaged business concerns; (3) may exceed $1,000,000 in the case of a contract for the construction of a postal facility, or $500,000 in the case of all other contracts; and (4) offers subcontracting possibilities. Provides that if the apparent successful offeror fails to negotiate such subcontracting plan, then the offeror shall become ineligible to be awarded the contract. Prohibits the awarding of a contract to any offeror unless the procurement authority determines that the subcontracting plan provides the maximum practicable opportunity for disadvantaged business concerns to participate in the contract's performance. Authorizes the Postal Service to provide such incentives as may be deemed appropriate in order to encourage subcontracting opportunities for small business concerns owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, except with respect to contracts let pursuant to other than the sealed bid method. Requires certain contracts to be awarded under the sealed bid method of procurement to contain a clause requiring the incorporation of a subcontracting plan. Makes the bidder selected to be awarded such contract ineligible if it fails to submit the subcontracting plan. Describes the subcontracting plan to be incorporated into contracts let under this Act with respect to providing opportunities for disadvantaged business concerns. Declares that the failure of any contractor or subcontractor to comply in good faith with the clause stating the policy of the Postal Service with respect to disadvantaged business concerns shall be a material breach of contract. Declares that any contract that does not contain a required subcontracting plan shall be considered void. Sets forth the duties of the Director with respect to subcontracting plans. Sets forth penalties for any person who makes or uses any document, writing or entry knowing it to be false for the purpose of obtaining a contract or subcontract let, or to be let, under this Act. Directs the Postal Service to establish annual goals specifically for funding agreements for research or research and development with disadvantaged business concerns. Authorizes each disadvantaged business concern to elect to retain title to any invention first conceived or first actually reduced to practice in the performance of a funding agreement. Sets forth provisions to be included in each funding agreement with respect to the rights of contractors and the Postal Service to the title to any invention conceived under the agreement. Requires Postmaster General approval before the Postal Service can require the licensing to third parties of inventions owned by the contractor that were not conceived or first actually reduced to practice in the performance of work under a funding agreement. Declares that with respect to any invention in which a disadvantaged business concern has acquired title under this Act, the Postal Service has the right to require the contractor, an assignee, or exclusive licensee of such invention, to grant a nonexclusive, partially exclusive, or exclusive license in any field of use to a responsible applicant upon terms that are reasonable under the circumstances, and if the contractor, assignee, or exclusive licensee refuses such request, to grant such a license itself. Requires the Postal Service to make a written determination that such action is necessary. Prohibits a disadvantaged business concern which receives title to any subject invention and an assignee of such concern from granting to any person the exclusive right to use or sell any subject invention in the United States unless such person agrees that any products embodying the subject invention, or produced through the use of such invention, will be manufactured substantially in the United States. Sets forth the circumstances under which such prohibition will be waived. Authorizes the Postal Service to withhold from public disclosure any invention in which it owns a right, title, or interest for a reasonable time in order for a patent application to be filed. Declares that the Postal Service shall not be required to release copies of any document which is part of a patent application. Directs the Postal Service to publicize notice of certain contracting opportunities in a manner to encourage the maximum practicable participation by disadvantaged business concerns. Authorizes the Postmaster General to exempt any purchase or class of purchases from such requirement if such exemption is determined to be in the public interest or if the notice would substantially impede a legitimate acquisition objective of the Postal Service. Directs the Postal Service to provide means whereby bidders and offerors may identify themselves as a disadvantaged business concern. Requires the Small Business Administration to make a final and binding decision on all disputes regarding the size status of a firm or its status as a socially and economically disadvantaged small business concern. Requires the Postal Service to report annually to specified congressional committees on its compliance with this Act. Requires a special report to such committees if the Postal Service fails to meet procurement goals established by the Director.
United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1988
Designates August 9, 1988, as National Neighborhood Crime Watch Day.
United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1988
Amends rule XXI of the Rules of the House of Representatives to prohibit the House from considering any bill if it contains more than one subject.
United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1988
Commends the President, Secretary of State, and Administrator of the Agency for International Development for their response to the drought and food emergency in Ethiopia and other nations of sub-Saharan Africa, and urges them to continue efforts to preclude the onset of famine and to ensure the timely delivery of medical and other emergency relief supplies. Declares that: (1) the Government response to these food emergencies should include initiatives to prevent the dislocation of large numbers of persons across national borders and/or into relief camps; and (2) the plight of the refugees or displaced should be addressed by emphasizing the provision of basic human needs, such as food, water, and shelter.
United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1988
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the Congress should freeze the Federal budget for FY 1989. States that discretionary programs in the Federal budget for FY 1989 should be frozen at FY 1988 levels.
United States · United States Congress · 20 December 1987
Truth in Mileage Amendments Act of 1987 - Amends the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act to prohibit a State from licensing a motor vehicle used primarily for business unless the responsible party has provided the requisite annual mileage information. Declares that each State shall: (1) retain and provide prompt access to such mileage information and vehicle identification number for a five-year period; and (2) reprint the most recent odometer information on duplicate certificates of title. Mandates that upon the transfer of motor vehicle ownership the ensuing title indicate on its face either the vehicle's actual mileage, or the name of the first State to issue a title for such vehicle.
United States · United States Congress · 18 December 1987
Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to extend the legalization program application period from 12 months to 24 months.
United States · United States Congress · 18 December 1987
Indoor Air Quality Act of 1987 - Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to establish a national research, development, and demonstration program to assure the quality of indoor air, including coordinating and accelerating efforts related to the causes, detection, and correction of contaminated air. Requires such program to include information collection and dissemination, cooperative research, grants, studies, development of techniques, facility construction, and conferences. Requires that research focus on human health effects and the identification of types and levels of contaminants likely to cause harm, including the development of methodology and techniques for detection and control. Authorizes the Administrator to assist technology demonstration activities based on a technology's potential to cost effectively control sources of contaminants which pose the greatest risk. Limits Federal funding to 75 percent of costs. Directs the Administrator to report to the Congress by the start of FY 1989 on activities conducted under this Act. Directs the Administrator to publish and biennially revise a list of contaminants known to occur in indoor air. Provides for additions to such list upon application of a State Governor. Requires the Administrator to publish advisory materials addressing the human health effects of listed contaminants which describe the properties, effects, risks, and concentrations of such contaminants. Directs the Indoor Air Panel of the EPA Science Advisory Board to assist in the listing and advisories. Requires that advisories be updated every five years. Directs the Administrator to develop and publish a national indoor air quality response plan to meet applicable clean air standards, including the dissemination of information and education and the provision of technical assistance. Requires the response plan to identify the contaminant, the basis for the action, the nature of the response, the responsible Federal authority, and the necessary financial resources. Requires such plan to include a specific response plan for Federal buildings which lists buildings and the reduction and response actions to be taken, and identifies those buildings likely to exceed applicable standards. Exempts specified buildings for national security, demolition, or special use purposes. Requires response plans to be submitted to the Congress on a biennial basis. Authorizes grants to States for the development of management strategies and indoor air quality assessment and response programs similar to those of the Federal program. Directs the Administrator to establish the Office of Indoor Air Quality within EPA's Office of Air and Radiation to implement agency responsibilities of this Act. Directs the President to establish a National Indoor Air Quality Council within the Executive Office to coordinate Federal activities and advise the President. Requires that the Council report to the Congress on a biennial basis. Directs the Administrator to conduct an indoor air contaminant reduction demonstration program in new Federal buildings, including the development of design, purchasing, and management guidelines. Requires the Administrator to establish a national indoor air quality clearinghouse. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1988 through 1992.
United States · United States Congress · 17 December 1987
Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to authorize the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to commence an administrative enforcement action under such Act against any Federal entity or employee responsible for the disposal or management of solid waste.
United States · United States Congress · 17 December 1987
Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to appoint a Special Environmental Counsel as an independent counsel to enforce compliance with such Act and other environmental laws concerning hazardous waste management at Federal facilities. Empowers the Counsel to issue orders, bring civil actions, and collect civil penalties. Requires the President to request funds for compliance with such orders in the annual budget submission if such funds are not otherwise available. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 17 December 1987
Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to state that a permit issued to a Federal facility for hazardous waste management shall be deemed to be issued jointly to the United States and the operator, but that sovereign immunity does not extend to such operator. Prohibits Federal procurement from persons convicted of an offense under such Act. Permits exemptions as specified. Directs the President to report annually to the Congress on the implementation of this section. Prohibits Federal payment of an operator's fine. Permits payment of attorneys fees only if awarded pursuant to other authority.