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Official portrait of Rep. Bedell, Berkley W. [D-IA-6]

Rep. Bedell, Berkley W. [D-IA-6]

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3,111 records where Rep. Bedell, Berkley W. [D-IA-6] is listed as a sponsor, author, or other actor. Search with topics and years

Bill· HRH.R. 4432 (98th)open

Trade Reorganization Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 16 November 1983

Trade Reorganization Act of 1983 - Title I: General Provisions - Sets forth congressional findings, the purposes of the Act, and definitions of terms used in the Act. Title II: Department of Commerce and Trade - Part A: Establishment - Establishes the Department of Commerce and Trade which shall be administered by a Secretary of Commerce and Trade. Sets forth the functions of the Secretary. Part B: Officers of the Department - Requires that there shall be three Deputy Secretaries of Commerce and Trade, one to act for the Secretary if the Secretary is absent or disabled, and the other two to act as international trade negotiators. Requires that there shall be in the Department an Under Secretary for International Trade and an Under Secretary for Domestic Commerce. Provides for other officers including eight Assistant Secretaries, a General Counsel, an Inspector General, a Chief Negotiator for Textile Matters, and, if requested by the Secretary of Agriculture, an Agricultural Adviser. Part C: Offices and Administrations - Establishes the following offices in the Department which shall be under the supervision of the Under Secretary for International Trade: (1) the Office for Trade Policy Development; (2) the Office for Export Promotion; (3) the Office for Trade Administration; and (4) the Office for International Investment. Establishes in the Department the United States and Foreign Commercial Services which shall facilitate and promote U.S. business activity and exports of U.S. goods and services. Requires the Under Secretary for International Trade to report to the Secretary and to Congress within one year after the effective date of this Act on any plans for expanding and enhancing the policy functions of the Foreign Commercial Service. Establishes the following offices in the Department which shall be under the supervision of the Under Secretary for Domestic Commerce: (1) the Office for Industrial Policy; (2) the Office for Sector Analysis; and (3) the Office for Productivity, Technology, and Innovation. Establishes in the Department the: (1) United States Travel and Tourism Administration; (2) Office of Patents and Trademarks; (3) National Telecommunications and Information Administration; and (4) Bureau for Economic Analysis. Part D: Transfers to the Department - Transfers to the Secretary: (1) all functions of the U.S. Trade Representative and of the Office of U.S. Trade Representative which relate to non-agricultural products under specified provisions of law; and (2) except for functions transferred by titles III, IV, and VI all functions of the Secretary of Commerce, of the Department of Commerce, and of specified officers and employees of the Department of Commerce. Part E: Administrative Provisions - Authorizes the Secretary to perform certain personnel functions. Sets forth further provisions governing the administration of the Department. Part F: Related Agencies - Establishes in the Executive Office of the President an Office of the Assistant to the President for International Trade. Requires the Assistant to the President for International Trade to serve as the principal adviser to the President on international trade policy. Amends the Trade Expansion Act to establish in the Executive Office of the President a Trade Policy Committee which shall assist the President in carrying out specified import relief provisions of the Trade Act of 1974. (Current law provides for an interagency trade organization to provide the President with such assistance.) Requires the Committee to obtain advice from appropriate departments or agencies on the impact of international trade and investment policy. Establishes as a subcommittee of the Committee the Subcommittee on Trade Negotiations which shall, with the concurrence of the Committee advise the President on the management of negotiations and on the appointment of delegations to international negotiations or meetings. Authorizes the Chairman of the Committee to establish additional subcommittees. Amends the Export-Import Bank Act of 1945 to include the Deputy Secretary of Commerce and Trade on the board of directors of the Export-Import Bank. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to require the Secretary of Commerce and Trade to give policy guidance to the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC). Requires OPIC to carry out a specified trade development program. Requires the Director of the United States International Development Cooperation Agency to be the Chairman of the Board of Directors of OPIC, ex officio. Requires the Under Secretary of International Trade to be the Vice Chairman of the Board, ex officio. Amends the National Security Act of 1947 to make the Assistant to the President for International Trade a member of the National Security Council. Amends the Bretton Woods Agreement Act to require the U.S. executive director of the International Monetary Fund to consult with the Secretary of Commerce and Trade with respect to trade matters under consideration by the Fund. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to: (1) exercise primary responsibility, with the advice of the Trade Policy Committee, for developing and implementing international agricultural trade policy; (2) exercise lead responsibility, with the advice of the Trade Policy Committee and the Subcommittee for Trade Negotiations, for international trade negotiations with respect to agricultural products; (3) report to Congress on a specified trade agreements programs as it relates to agricultural products and on other issues pertaining to international agricultural trade; (4) keep each congressionally appointed adviser to U.S. international trade delegations informed on U.S. negotiating objectives; and (5) consult and cooperate with State and local governments and other parties interested in international agricultural trade. Transfers to the Secretary all functions of the U.S. Trade Representative and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative which relates to agricultural products. Establishes in the Department of Agriculture a Deputy Secretary for International Trade Negotiations who shall act on behalf of the Secretary of Agriculture as Chief Negotiator of the United States on international agricultural trade matters. Requires the President to appoint, with the advice and consent of the Senate, a Permanent Representative of the Department of Agriculture to the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade. Changes the title of the Under Secretary of Agriculture for International Affairs and Commodity Programs to the Under Secretary of Agriculture for International Trade and Commodity Programs. Part G: Conforming Provisions - Sets forth conforming amendments. Title III: Establishment of National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration as an Independent Agency - Part A: Declaration of Findings and Purposes - Sets forth the congressional findings, purposes, and definitions of this title. Part B: Establishment and Functions of Administration - Establishes the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration as an independent Federal agency. Sets forth the principal officers of the Administration, including an Administrator, a Deputy Administrator, eight Assistant Administrators, and a General Counsel. Authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to detail to the Administrator a Navy flag officer who, as Naval Deputy to the Administrator, shall serve as liaison between the Administrator and the Secretary of the Navy and shall ensure that national security considerations are addressed in Administration policy matters. Transfers all functions of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration of the Department of Commerce to the independent Administration. Sets forth the functions of the Administrator. Part C: Enforcement - Sets forth the enforcement authority and powers of the Administrator. Authorizes the Administrator to use State and local personnel to the extent necessary to enforce the laws for which the Administrator has enforcement authority. Grants U.S. district courts jurisdiction over any case or controversy arising under this title. Part D: Administrative Provisions - Sets forth the administrative authorities of the Administrator. Requires recordkeeping by and audits of recipients of financial assistance from the Administrator or pursuant to a program administered by the Administrator. Authorizes the Administrator to consolidate reports on programs administered by the Administrator. Requires the Administrator to consult and coordinate with other Federal agencies and to cooperate with the Secretary of State with respect to international conferences. Provides for the transfer of personnel pursuant to this title. Part E: Miscellaneous Provisions - Provides that references to the functions transferred by this title in other Federal laws shall be deemed to conform to this title. Title IV: Transfers to Other Federal Agencies - Part A: National Bureau of Standards - Transfers to the National Science Foundation all functions of the National Bureau of Standards. Requires the National Bureau of Standards to be, for at least one year, a separate identifiable unit in the National Science Foundation. Requires the National Science Foundation through the Assistant Director for the National Bureau of Standards to perform all the functions of the transferred Bureau for at least one year. Provides that certain provisions of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 relating to the operation of laboratories and pilot plants shall not apply to functions transferred to the National Science Foundation under this part. Requires that an additional Assistant Director of the National Science Foundation shall be appointed who shall be the Assistant Director for the National Bureau of Standards. Part B: Minority Business Development Agency - Transfers the Minority Business Development Agency from the Department of Commerce to the Small Business Administration. Requires that, for at least one year: (1) the Minority Business Development Agency shall be a separate identifiable unit in the Small Business Administration; and (2) the Administrator of the Small Business Administration, through the Director of the Minority Business Development Agency, shall perform all functions of the Minority Business Development Agency. Provides for the appointment within the Small Business Administration of a Director of the Minority Business Development Agency. Part C: Economic Development Administration - Transfers the Economic Development Administration from the Department of Commerce to the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Requires that, for at least one year: (1) the Economic Development Administration shall be a separate identifiable unit in the Department of Housing and Urban Development; and (2) the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development shall perform functions of the Economic Development Administration. Requires that an additional Assistant Secretary of Housing and Urban Development shall be appointed who shall be the Assistant Secretary for Economic Development. Title V: Industrial Policy - Establishes the Industrial Competitiveness Council which shall: (1) prepare and publish reports on the U.S. industrial economy and its international competitiveness; (2) prepare and transmit to the President and the Congress a report analyzing the extent to which the United States needs an industrial base to maintain its economic and military position in the world; (3) provide policy recommendations and guidance to the President and Congress regarding the preservation and future growth of the U.S. industrial base; (4) identify critical sectors of the economy; (5) establish sectoral and area subcouncils to facilitate consultation about the performance and prospects of such sectors and areas; and (6) monitor the performance and prospects of critical sectors. Sets forth the powers of the Council and the membership of the Council. Title VI: Bureau of the Census - Establishes the Bureau of the Census as an independent agency. Transfers all functions of the Bureau of the Census of the Department of Commerce to the independent Bureau. Title VII: Transitional, Savings, and Conforming Provisions - Sets forth transitional, savings, and conforming provisions. Terminates the Department of Commerce and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative. Title VIII: Miscellaneous - Sets forth the effective dates of the provisions of this Act. Provides for interim appointments. Authorizes appropriations.

Bill· HRH.R. 4428 (98th)referred

Congressional Campaign Finance Reform Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 16 November 1983

Congressional Campaign Finance Reform Act of 1983 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a nonrefundable income tax credit for contributions to candidates for the office of U.S. Representative. Limits the amount of such credit to $100 for any one qualified candidate, and $200 for all qualified candidates. Requires that such contributions be verified in accordance with regulations promulgated by the Secretary of the Treasury. Prohibits a candidate from misrepresenting his eligibility for office or the eligibility of a potential contributor for the tax credit. Requires the Secretary to report to the Congress on the use of such political tax credits not later than June 30 following each Federal election. Adds a new title to the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971: "Title V: Financing of General Election Campaigns for the House of Representatives." Sets forth requirements for the qualification of candidates for the U.S. House of Representatives to receive contributions eligible for the tax credit provided by this Act. Requires a candidate to certify to the Federal Election Commission that neither he nor his authorized committee will accept any contribution or make any campaign expenditure in excess of prescribed limits. Requires further that the candidate maintain a separate accounting of contributions which qualify for the income tax credit for political contributions provided by this Act and that the candidate provide any appropriate information to the Commission for purposes of auditing or examining campaign contributions. Requires the candidate to certify the receipt of a certain amount of threshold contributions. Limits to $20,000 the amount of personal funds (from the candidate or his immediate family) that a candidate may spend in an election. Waives spending limits for eligible candidates whose opponents have exceeded applicable expenditure limits or who have otherwise failed to meet the requirements of this Act. Requires independent expenditures in excess of $5,000 to be reported to the Commission and each candidate within specified time frames. Qualifies a candidate against whom more than $5,000 in independent expenditures have been made for premium postal rates. Requires the Commission to verify upon request the eligibility of a candidate under this Act to the Secretary. Requires the Commission to conduct an examination and audit of the campaign accounts of ten percent of the qualified candidates under this Act to determine compliance with the expenditure limitations and other requirements of this Act. Empowers the Commission to bring a civil suit in U.S. district court to enforce any requirement of this Act or recover any amounts resulting from an audit of campaign expenditures. Permits private citizens to file complaints with the Commission and initiate court actions. Authorizes appropriations. Includes within the definition of "contribution" for purposes of the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 certain extensions of credit for advertising and broadcasting in excess of $1,000 for a period of more than 60 days. Limits to $90,000 (adjusted for inflation) in any calendar year the amount of contributions which candidates for U.S. Representative may accept from non-party multicandidate political committees. Specifies exceptions for candidates in general and special elections. Limits to $240,000 the expenditure amounts for such candidates. Permits candidates for the office of U.S. Representative to make expenditures independently of the campaign committee of his party in specified circumstances. Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to provide candidates for the office of U.S. Representative with equal time in broadcast media to respond to the remarks of an opposing candidate.

Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 427 (98th)referred

A joint resolution to require the President and the Congress to adopt a "Pay As You Go" budget process.

United States · United States Congress · 16 November 1983

Requires the President to submit to Congress, and the Congress to adopt, for FY 1985 and each year thereafter, a "pay as you go" budget which freezes all revenues and outlays at current levels. Requires any future legislative reductions in revenues to be offset by equivalent reductions in outlays and any spending above the outlay baseline to be offset by equivalent increases in revenues or reductions in outlays so that no spending increase results in an increase in the deficit.

Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 226 (98th)passed

A concurrent resolution expressing the sense of the Congress regarding the persecution of members of the Baha'i religion in Iran by the Government of Iran.

United States · United States Congress · 16 November 1983

States that the Congress: (1) holds Iran responsible for upholding the rights of the Baha'is; (2) condemns Iran's decision to destroy the Baha'i faith; and (3) calls upon the President to work with appropriate foreign governments to form an appeal to Iran concerning the Baha'is, to cooperate with the United Nations in its efforts on behalf of the Baha'is, and to provide humanitarian assistance for Baha'is who flee Iran.

Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 225 (98th)open

A concurrent resolution expressing the sense of the Congress that the President should instruct the United States delegation to the United Nations to introduce a resolution in the General Assembly calling for the immediate withdrawal of all Syrian and Syrian controlled forces from Lebanon.

United States · United States Congress · 16 November 1983

Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President should instruct the U.S. delegation to the United Nations to introduce before the U.N. General Assembly a resolution calling for the withdrawal of Syrian and Syrian-controlled forces from Lebanon in order to facilitate the return of peace to the country.

Bill· HRH.R. 4395 (98th)open

A bill to regulate smoking on board passenger-carrying aircraft.

United States · United States Congress · 15 November 1983

Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to require on board passenger-carrying aircraft: (1) no-smoking sections for each class of service; (2) the prohibition of smoking cigars and pipes; and (3) the prohibition of smoking whenever an aircraft ventilation system is not operating at normal service.

Bill· HRH.R. 4373 (98th)referred

Interlocking Ownership Disclosure Act

United States · United States Congress · 14 November 1983

Interlocking Ownership Disclosure Act - Amend the Federal Deposit Insurance Act to require every depository institution, not later than April 15 of each year, to report to the appropriate Federal banking agency: (1) the name of each individual who directly or indirectly owns, or has the power to vote more than five percent of any class of voting securities of, such depository institution and of any other depository institution; or (2) the nonexistence of such other ownership interests. Requires such report to contain the names of all such other depository institutions, if any, the duration of such ownership interests during the preceding calendar year, and the percentage of ownership in each such depository institution. Requires the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System to make annual reports to specified congressional committees containing the findings on the nature and extent of interlocking ownership interests in depository institutions. Applies the requirements of this Act to commercial banks, savings banks, savings and loan associations, credit unions and other specified depository institutions.

Bill· HRH.R. 4351 (98th)referred

A bill to amend title II of the Social Security Act to provide increases in primary insurance amounts to account for depressed replacement rates.

United States · United States Congress · 10 November 1983

Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to prescribe annual adjustments to the formula for determining the primary insurance amount in order to ensure that the replacement rate for the primary insurance amount for January of the following year does not fall below a specified percentage.

Bill· HRH.R. 4345 (98th)referred

A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 to allow the energy investment credit for equipment designed to use sail power on vessels to lower fuel costs.

United States · United States Congress · 9 November 1983

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow an energy investment tax credit for equipment designed to use sail power on vessels. Specifies that qualified equipment shall include: (1) masts; (2) standing and running rigging; (3) sails; (4) deck hardware related to hoisting, trimming, or otherwise controlling sails; and (5) rotor systems. Specifies that such credit shall apply to periods after December 31, 1984, and prior to January 1, 1990.

Bill· HRH.R. 4323 (98th)open

Agricultural Compliance Clarification Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 7 November 1983

Agricultural Compliance Clarification Act of 1983 - Amends the Agricultural Act of 1949 to revise acreage set-aside or land-diversion compliance rules.

Bill· HRH.R. 4300 (98th)open

Missing Childrens Assistance Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 3 November 1983

Missing Children's Assistance Act of 1983 - Amends the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act of 1974 to require the Administrator of the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention to establish and maintain a national toll-free telephone line for reporting information regarding the location of missing children. Directs the Administrator to establish a national resource center and clearinghouse to: (1) provide technical assistance to State and local governments and agencies in locating missing children; (2) coordinate public and private efforts to recover missing children; and (3) disseminate information on innovative missing childrens' programs, services, and legislation. Requires the Administrator to publish an annual summary of research on missing children and prepare a comprehensive plan for coordinating activities of all agencies and organizations responsible for missing children. Authorizes the Administrator, in consultation with the Advisory Board on Missing Children, to make grants for research or demonstration or service programs designed to: (1) educate parents and community agencies on ways to prevent the abduction of children; (2) assist in the recovery or tracking of missing children; (3) aid communities in collecting material to assist parents in the identification of their children; (4) demonstrate the psychological consequences of a child's abduction; and (5) collect data on investigative practices utilized by law enforcement agencies. Requires the Administrator to appoint an Advisory Board on Missing Children to assist the Administrator in coordinating programs and activities relating to missing children. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1984 through 1988.

Bill· HRH.R. 4285 (98th)open

A bill to require that certain financial information be acquired and disseminated by the Secretary of Agriculture with respect to non-Federal facilities approved for the storage of certain grains owned or controlled by the Commodity Credit Corporation.

United States · United States Congress · 2 November 1983

Requires the Secretary of Agriculture, with respect to non-Federal facilities approved for the storage of certain grains owned or controlled by the Commodity Credit Corporation, to collect financial information relating to: (1) types of delayed pricing contracts entered into and the aggregate quantity of grain subject to the contracts; (2) aggregate value of all contracts of sale of commodities for future delivery; and (3) a financial statement.

Bill· HRH.R. 4286 (98th)referred

A bill to amend title 11, United States Code, to provide for expedited determinations of interests in grain and the proceeds of grain, held by debtors who own or operate grain storage facilities, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 2 November 1983

Amends the Bankruptcy Reform Act of 1978 to permit a bankruptcy court to expedite the procedures for the determination of interests in and the disposition of grain and proceeds of grain held by debtors who own or operate grain storage facilities. Allows the shortening of time periods applicable for such procedures and establishment of a timetable for the completion of certain procedure. Permits such time periods and timetable to be modified by the court for good cause shown. Sets forth the criteria by which such time periods may be shortened and the procedures which may be expedited. Requires notice of any appropriate regulatory governmental unit of any request made or ordered into for expedited determinations of interest. Requires the trustee to consult with such governmental unit before taking any action relating to the disposition of grain in the control of the debtor or the estate. Declares that unless such an order is stayed pending appeal, the reversal or modification on appeal of an order establishing an expedited procedure or determining any interest in or approving any disposition of grain or its proceeds does not affect validity. Prohibits the court or the trustee from delaying any other proceeding in the particular case on account of the appeal. Permits the trustee to recover from grain and proceeds of grain the reasonable and necessary costs and expenses attributable to preserving and disposing of grain or its proceeds, but the trustee may not recover any other costs or expenses.

Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 200 (98th)open

Commission on Civil Rights Resolution

United States · United States Congress · 28 October 1983

Commission on Civil Rights Resolution - Establishes within the legislative branch an eight member Commission on Civil Rights (Commission). Provides rules of procedure for Commission hearings. Requires the Commission to: (1) investigate allegations of citizens' being denied their right to vote by reason of their color, religion, sex, age, handicap or national origin; (2) study and collect information concerning discrimination or a denial of equal protection; (3) appraise Federal laws and policy with respect to discrimination and the denial of equal protection; and (4) serve as a national clearinghouse for such information. Prohibits the Commission from investigating any membership practice or internal operation of any fraternal organization, college or university fraternity or sorority, private club or religious organization. Prohibits the Commission from collecting or studying information with respect to abortion. Directs the Commission to appraise the laws and policies of the Federal Government with respect to denials of equal protection involving Americans who are members of eastern - and southern - European ethic groups.

Law· HRH.R. 4209 (98th)enacted

Small Business and Federal Procurement Competition Enhancement Act of 1984

United States · United States Congress · 25 October 1983

Amends the Small Business Act to require the Small Business Administration to assign to each major procurement center a breakout procurement center representative who shall: (1) review procurement method codes with the goal of encouraging increased competition among small businesses; (2) review procurement requirements which limit the opportunity for small businesses to compete as prime contractors; and (3) review and conduct a value analysis of engineering change proposals to determine if such proposals will result in lower costs to the Government. Directs the Director of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization of each agency to assign technical advisors to assist each breakout procurement center representative. Requires the Comptroller General to report to the Committees on Small Business of the House of Representatives and of the Senate regarding breakout procurement procedures.

Law· HRH.R. 4214 (98th)enacted

A bill to establish a State Mining and Mineral Resources Research Institute program, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 25 October 1983

Authorizes appropriations to the Secretary of the Interior for FY 1985 through 1989 to assist States in carrying on the work of a competent and qualified mining and mineral resources research institute at one public college or university (or private college or university if a State does not have an eligible public college or university) in the State meeting eligibility requirements. Provides that such funds when appropriated shall be made available for grants to be matched on a basis of no less than one and one-half non-Federal dollars for each Federal dollar during FY 1985 and 1986 and no less than two non-Federal dollars for each Federal dollar during FY 1987 through 1989. Authorizes appropriations to the Secretary for FY 1985 through 1989 which shall be made available to institutes to meet the necessary expenses of: (1) specific mineral research and demonstration projects of broad application which could not otherwise be undertaken; and (2) research into any aspects of mining and mineral resources problems related to the mission of the Department of the Interior which are not otherwise being studied. Sets forth funding criteria. Requires each institute to: (1) set forth its plan to provide for the training of individuals as mineral engineers and scientists; (2) set forth policies and procedures to assure that Federal funds made available under this Act will supplement and, to the extent practicable, increase the level of funds that would, in the absence of such Federal funds, be made available for purposes of this Act, and in no case supplant such funds; and (3) report annually to the Secretary concerning amounts received under this Act and projects undertaken pursuant to this Act. Directs the Secretary to: (1) prescribe necessary rules and regulations; and (2) report to Congress annually concerning the receipts, expenditures, and work of the institutes in all States under the provisions of this Act. Prohibits anything in this Act from being construed to authorize Federal control of education at any college or university. Directs the Secretary to assure that programs authorized by this Act are not redundant with respect to established mining and minerals research programs. Authorizes appropriations necessary to print and publish the results of activities carried out by institutes under this Act and for administrative planning and direction. Directs the Secretary to establish a center for cataloging current and projected scientific research in all fields of mining and mineral resources. Directs the President to clarify agency responsibility for Federal mining and mineral resources research and provide interagency coordination of such research. Directs the Secretary to appoint a Committee on Mining and Mineral Resources Research to consult with and make recommendations to the Secretary on all matters relating to mining and mineral resources research as required by this Act. Requires the Committee to: (1) develop a national plan for research and development in mining and mineral resources and to formulate and recommend a program to implement the plan utilizing resources provided for under this Act; and (2) submit such plan to the Secretary, the President, and Congress by March 1, 1986, and update the plan annually. Requires the Committee to determine the eligibility of a college or university to participate as a mining and mineral resources research institute under this Act.

Bill· HRH.R. 4203 (98th)referred

Congressional Pay Reform Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 24 October 1983

Congressional Pay Reform Act of 1983 - Amends the Legislative Reorganization Act of 1946 to specify that pay adjustments for Members of Congress shall become effective on March 1 following the beginning of the next Congress after the Congress during which such adjustment is approved. Requires the President to transmit to the Congress, within a specified time period, recommendations for rates of pay of Members of Congress, legislative, and judicial employees. Prohibits the House of Representatives and the Senate from considering any bill or joint resolution carrying an appropriation for compensation of Members of Congress for any fiscal year if such bill or joint resolution carries an appropriation, or a limitation of appropriations, for any other purpose.

Bill· HRH.R. 4162 (98th)open

Criminal Fine Collection Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 19 October 1983

Criminal Fine Collection Act of 1983 - Amends the Federal criminal code with respect to the imposition, payment, and collection of fines. Lists factors that the court must consider in determining whether to impose a fine, including: (1) the ability of the defendant to pay; (2) the burden that payment will impose on the defendant; and (3) any restitution or reparation made by the defendant. States that payment of a fine is due immediately unless the court requires payment by installment or by any date certain. Permits a sentence to pay a fine to be stayed while an appeal is taken. Makes a fine delinquent if any portion of such fine is not paid within 30 days of when it is due. Provides that a fine is in default if it is more than 90 days delinquent. Allows for the modification or remission of a sentence to pay a fine. Requires the clerk to forward each fine payment to the U.S. Treasury and notify the Attorney General of its receipt. Requires the court to certify to the Attorney General when a fine exceeding $100 is imposed, modified, or remitted. Makes the Attorney General responsible for the collection of any unpaid fine for which certification has been issued. Allows the court to impose interest and monetary penalties for any willful nonpayment. Establishes civil remedies for the satisfication of an unpaid fine. Provides that a judgment imposing a fine may be enforced by execution against the property of the person fined as are judgments in civil cases. Allows the court to resentence a person upon willful failure to pay a fine to any sentence which might originally have been imposed. Provides for a statute of limitations on the liability to pay a fine of 20 years or upon death of the person fined. Provides penalties for criminal default of a fine. Makes payment of a fine a condition of probation or parole in certain circumstances. Requires the Attorney General to include in the annual crime report steps taken to implement this Act and any progress achieved in criminal fine collection.

Bill· HRH.R. 4155 (98th)referred

Unemployment Compensation Reform Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 19 October 1983

Unemployment Compensation Reform Act of 1983 - Title I: Amendments to Extended Benefit Program - Amends the Federal-State Extended Unemployment Compensation Act of 1970 to revise trigger provisions for the Federal-State extended unemployment compensation program. Provides that area triggers for such program shall operate on the basis of rates of insured unemployment and of total unemployment in an area of a State (or in a State), according to specified formulas. Directs the Secretary of Labor, within six months after enactment of this Act, to compile statistics on the total rate of unemployment on a county-by-county basis. Title II: Changes to Federal Supplemental Compensation Program - Amends the Federal Supplemental Compensation Act of 1982 to increase the number of weeks for which benefits are payable under the Federal supplemental unemployment compensation program. Repeals provisions of such Act relating to termination of such program. Extends such program: (1) through February 28, 1985; and (2) thereafter during periods of high national unemployment. Provides that amendments made by this title shall apply to weeks beginning after October 17, 1983. Sets forth a transitional rule. Directs the Secretary of Labor to modify program agreements with States in accordance with amendments made by this title. Title III: Miscellaneous Provisions - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to revise provisions relating to additional tax on certain amounts included in gross income after age 59 1/2 to provide for a waiver of the penalty on withdrawals from an individual retirement plan where the individual has exhausted unemployment benefits. Amends the Internal Revenue Code (as amended by the Social Security Amendments of 1983) to permit States to deny unemployment compensation benefits in the period between academic terms or years to nonprofessional employees of educational institutions if they have a reasonable assurance of returning to work in the next academic term or year. (Under current law, States are required to deny such benefits to such employees in such cases.)

Bill· HRH.R. 4105 (98th)open

Alcohol Fuel Tax Incentive Uniformity Act

United States · United States Congress · 6 October 1983

Alcohol Fuel Tax Incentive Uniformity Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to increase the amount of the exemption from the excise tax on gasoline for gasoline mixed with alcohol. Extends such exemption to diesel fuels and special fuels which contain at least ten percent alcohol. Increases from 50 cents per gallon to 90 cents per gallon the amount of the income tax credit for alcohol used as fuel. Amends the Tariff Schedules of the United States to increase the tariff on alcohol imported for use as a fuel from 50 cents per gallon to 90 cents per gallon.

Bill· HRH.R. 4121 (98th)referred

Food Safety Modernization Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 6 October 1983

Food Safety Modernization Act of 1983 - Title I: Amendments to the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to define "safe", as applied to food additives, color additives, pesticide residues, and other specified substances, to mean a reasonable certainty that the risks of a substance under the intended conditions of use are negligible. Authorizes the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to permit, under specified conditions, the gradual elimination or phase-out of substances from the food supply if the FDA determines that there will be no unreasonable risk to the public health from continued use of a substance while it is phased out and there is no practicable substitute. Permits an extension for up to an additional five years. Provides that certain cancer-causing substances shall not be banned (and may be approved) if the proponent of use demonstrates on the basis of credible experimental evidence that the risks to humans under the intended conditions of use are negligible. Authorizes the FDA to consider the benefits to human health from a long-used additive with no practicable substitute before prohibiting its use on the basis of risks to human health. Permits continued use of an additive if the risks to human health are acceptable on account of the benefits to human health, such as the effects of its use on the nutritional value and availability of food and uses for dietary management and other health-related purposes. Directs the FDA to establish an independent scientific peer review committee to study and give advice on substantial scientific issues related to food safety. Requires the FDA, within two years of enactment of this Act, to establish by regulations standards to determine under what circumstances the use of a substance in a food contact situation (i.e., an indirect additive) meets the food additive definition of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. Directs the FDA, in issuing regulations, to consider the extent of human exposure to a substance under its intended conditions of use and the toxicological characteristics of the substance. Title II - Amendments to the Poultry Products Inspection Act, the Federal Meat Inspection Act, and the Egg Products Inspection Act - Amends the Poultry Products Inspection Act, the Federal Meat Inspection Act and the Egg Products Inspection Act to provide that a meat, poultry or egg product is adulterated because it contains an added poisonous or added deleterious substance when the presence of the substance renders the food unsafe within the meaning of the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to issue regulations for added poisonous or added deleterious substances in meat, poultry and egg products but only if the FDA has not already done so. Authorizes the Secretary to phaseout the use of substances in meat, poultry, and egg products for which the Department of Agriculture has primary responsibility. Directs the Secretary to establish an independent scientific peer review system. Title III - Effective Date - Provides that the Act shall become effective upon enactment.

Bill· HRH.R. 4118 (98th)open

A bill to amend title 31, United States Code, to strengthen provisions relating to civil actions for false claims against the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 6 October 1983

Permits a person other than a participant in a false claim against the Government to bring a civil action with respect to such false claim for the Government. Allows the person bringing such an action to proceed with it if the Government does not proceed with the action with reasonable diligence within 60 days after entering an appearance. (Under current law, the person bringing such an action may proceed if the Government does not proceed with the action within six months after entering an appearance.) Requires the court to dismiss such an action brought by such a person on discovering that the action is based upon evidence the Government had as a basis for allegations made in a prior proceeding, unless the Government proceeds with the action. Provides that the minimum amount which a person bringing such an action may receive for disclosing evidence which the Government did not have when the action was brought shall be 25 percent of the proceeds of the action or settlement of the claim by the Government. (Under current law, the amount which such a person may receive shall not exceed ten percent of such proceeds.)

Bill· HRH.R. 4111 (98th)referred

A bill to amend title 11 of the United States Code to provide that in cases under chapter 11 of such title certain debts for medical benefits payable to retired employees shall not be dischargeable.

United States · United States Congress · 6 October 1983

Amends title 11 (Bankruptcy) of the United States Code to make nondischargeable in a bankruptcy case any debts for a contribution to an employee benefit plan for the purpose of providing medical benefits to employees who because of age or disability terminate employment before the order for relief.

Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 384 (98th)open

A joint resolution to delay United States Pershing II and cruise missile deployments for six months if there is prompt United States-Soviet agreement to negotiate mutual nondeployment and reductions of intermediate- range nuclear force (INF) missiles in Europe.

United States · United States Congress · 6 October 1983

States that the United States, in negotiating an arms control agreement with the Soviet Union, should delay for six months the deployment of Pershing II and cruise missiles in Europe if the Soviet Union agrees to negotiate for specified mutual nondeployment and reductions of nuclear force missiles in Europe. Suggests that the United States and the Soviet Union should work with their respective allies to achieve a multilateral agreement on a reduction and a ban on nuclear weapon systems. Urges that the negotiations in Geneva on Soviet-American intermediate-range nuclear systems should be combined with the Strategic Arms Reduction negotiations with the objective of achieving a verifiable U.S.-Soviet freeze and reduction in the deployment of nuclear missiles and other delivery systems.

Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 382 (98th)referred

A joint resolution to establish a bipartisan National Commission on Federal Budget Deficit Reductions.

United States · United States Congress · 6 October 1983

Establishes the National Commission on Federal Budget Deficit Reductions to review all relevant elements of fiscal and monetary policy, identify problems which may hinder the control and reduction of Federal budget deficits, and analyze all potential options which would result in deficit reductions and place the Government on a sound financial basis. Requires the Commission to transmit a report to the President and Congress not later than February 15, 1984, or the close of the 90th day beginning after the date of enactment of this resolution. Requires such report to contain a detailed statement of the findings and conclusions of the Commission, together with its recommendations for such legislation and administrative actions as it considers appropriate. Terminates the Commission 30 days after it submits its report.

Resolution· HRESH.Res. 334 (98th)open

A resolution urging the President to give priority attention, in forthcoming discussions with Japanese government leaders, to current imbalances in the yen-dollar relationship having an adverse impact on United States goods and services in interstate and foreign commerce.

United States · United States Congress · 6 October 1983

Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that: (1) the President should give priority attention, in discussions with the Japanese, to the realignment of the yen-dollar exchange rates and to achieving greater equilibrium in the flow of goods, services, and investments between the two countries; and (2) measures to achieve such equilibrium should include mechanisms for close consultations and policy coordination in order to maintain acceptable fluctuations in the value of the yen, reduce disparities in the interest-rate levels, and allow equivalent access of foreign investors to domestic capital markets.

Bill· HRH.R. 4098 (98th)open

Synthetic Fuels Corporation Fiscal Accountability Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 5 October 1983

Synthetic Fuels Corporation Fiscal Accountability Act of 1983 - Amends the Energy Security Act to prohibit the U.S. Synthetic Fuels Corporation from making new awards of financial assistance after the date of the enactment of this Act and before the date on which the Corporation's comprehensive strategy for achieving the national synthetic fuel production goal is approved by Congress. Makes limitations on Corporation construction projects effective upon the enactment of this Act rather than upon approval of the comprehensive strategy as provided under current law.

Bill· HRH.R. 4095 (98th)open

A bill to amend the Natural Gas Policy Act of 1978 to prevent any acquisition of or merger with an interstate pipeline company unless the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission determines that such acquisition or merger is in the public interest.

United States · United States Congress · 5 October 1983

Amends the Natural Gas Policy Act of 1978 to prohibit any person, without first having secured authorization from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, from: (1) purchasing any equity security of an interstate pipeline, if after such purchase such person will have acquired, either directly or indirectly, beneficial ownership of more than five percent of a class of registered securities; or (2) merging with an interstate pipeline. Directs the Commission to authorize such purchase or merger if, after notice and opportunity for a hearing, the Commission determines that it is consistent with the public interest.

Bill· HRH.R. 4097 (98th)referred

Childrens Television Education Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 5 October 1983

Children's Television Education Act of 1983 - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to require that every television broadcast station broadcast each Monday through Friday a minimum of one hour per day of programming specifically designed to enhance the education of children. Directs the Federal Communications Commission to prescribe regulations necessary to carry out such requirement. Requires that such regulations be initially prescribed within 180 days after the enactment of this Act. Directs the Commission, beginning four years after such enactment, and periodically thereafter, to review the effectiveness of such regulations and amend or supplement them as necessary. Permits such regulations to require a greater amount of broadcasting of children's educational television programing than the specified minimum required under this Act.

Bill· HRH.R. 4080 (98th)open

National Organ Transplant Act

United States · United States Congress · 5 October 1983

National Organ Transplant Act - Title I: Amendment to Public Health Service Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make planning and operations grants for local organ procurement organizations. Sets forth eligibility criteria. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1984 through 1989. Directs the Secretary to establish a private nonprofit United States Transplantation Network to provide a central registry linking donors and potential recipients. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish in the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health a National Center for Organ Transplantation to coordinate Federal organ transplantation activities; and (2) appoint an advisory council for such Center. Requires the Secretary to publish an annual organ transplantation report. Title II: Medicare and Medicaid Amendments - Amends the Social Security Act to permit Medicare organ transplantations at specified centers. Exempts organ procurement activities from specified cost limits. Requires States to develop written Medicaid payment polices for organ transplants. Requires State Medicaid plans to participate in any transplant program established under Medicare. Requires designated Medicare transplant centers to serve Medicaid patients. Title III: Prohibition of Organ Purchases - Prohibits the sale of human organs. Subjects violators to maximum penalties of $50,000 or five years in prison, or both.

Bill· HRH.R. 4069 (98th)open

Feed Grains Improvement Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 4 October 1983

Feed Grains Improvement Act of 1983 - Amends the Agricultural Act of 1949 to reduce target prices: (1) for the 1984 corn crop from $3.03 per bushel to $2.95 per bushel; and (2) for the 1985 corn crop from $3.18 per bushel to $3.03. Requires farmers, in order to qualify for 1984 price support assistance, to reduce their planted acreage by 15 percent under a combined acreage reduction (ten percent) and diversion (five percent) program. Requires the diverted land to be used for conservation purposes. Sets the program signup date at not earlier than March 30, 1984. Provides, with regard to the 1984 diversion program, payments of not less than $2.00 per bushel, except that the Secretary may reduce such payments by up to ten percent if appropriate to meet program objectives. Requires advance payments of at least 50 percent. Provides for 1984 feed gain advance deficiency payments.