United States · United States Congress · 1 October 1976
Requests the President of the United States to transmit a report about the freedom of citizens of Romania to exercise their rights and cultural freedoms, and especially their right to emigrate, to each House of Congress and to the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe. Requests that such a report be transmitted each time the President makes a request for authority to waive the application of the Trade Act of 1974, or for authority to extend the United States-Romanian Trade Agreement itself. Requests the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe to transmit a report with respect to the freedom of the citizens of Romania to emigrate, and on the status of minorities in that country, to both Houses of Congress. Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that if Romania restricts fundamental rights of its citizens, it should be denied its current most-favored nation treatment, and the 1975 United States-Romanian Trade Agreement should be ended. Provides an additional $50,000 for the Trade Subcommittee of the Committee on Ways and Means of the House to assist in carrying out its duties under the Trade Act of 1974.
United States · United States Congress · 1 October 1976
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President and the Secretary of State should take all necessary steps to bring the Baltic States question before the United Nations and to urge the United Nations to request the Soviet Union to withdraw all non-native troops, agents, colonists, and controls from the Republics of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia, and to return all Baltic exiles from Siberia and from prisons and labor camps in the Soviet Union. States that the Secretary of State should do his utmost to bring the matter of the Baltic States to the attention of all nations by means of special radio programs and publications. Provides that the United States should not agree to the recognition of the Soviet Union's annexation of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. Directs the President to take steps to provide that all maps of Europe show the Republics of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia as independent states. Calls for a return of self-determination to the peoples of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia through free elections conducted under the auspices of the United Nations.
United States · United States Congress · 30 September 1976
Government Executive Analysis and Reform (GEAR) Commission Act - Establishes the Government Executive Analysis and Reform (GEAR) Commission consisting of 18 members appointed by the President. States that six members are to be appointed by and with the advice and consent of the Senate; four each by the Speaker of the House of Representatives; the President pro tempore of the Senate, and the Chief Justice of the United States. Directs the Commission to study all Executive departments and independent agencies and other authorities of the Federal Government: (1) to determine whether regulatory activities have limited competition within segments of the economy and whether such regulators have contributed to current economic difficulties; and (2) the purposes, structure and jurisdiction, statutory framework, and procedures of such agencies. Directs the Commission to assess the costs and benefits of Federal programs and to make recommendations concerning the restructure of the Government to improve the efficiency of Federal programs. Requires the Commission to submit its recommendations to the President and Congress within 33 months after it first meets. Requires the President to submit to Congress his findings an specific proposals for legislation within 90 days of receipt of the Commission's report. Establishes the Task Force on American Federalism composed of 20 members appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Directs the Task Force to study the appropriate levels of responsibility among units of local, State and the Federal Government, means for each level to finance such responsibilities, and the extent of intergovernmental assistance required to achieve the proper balance and division of respective Federal, State and local roles and authorities. Directs the Task Force to submit its final report to Congress 15 months after it first meets stating its findings and proposals for constitutional amendments, legislation, or administrative action necessary to carry out its recommendations. Terminates the Task Force and the Commission 90 days after submission of their final reports. Authorizes to be appropriated $12,000,000 to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 22 September 1976
Authorizes: (1) a study of the feasibility and desirability of establishing the Santa Margarita National Recreation Area, in the area which is now Camp Pendleton, California; and (2) the appropriation of $200,000 for such study.
United States · United States Congress · 22 September 1976
Condemns the murders of Orlando Letelier and Ronni Karpen Moffitt and the serious injury of Michael Moffitt. Urges a complete and thorough investigation by federal authorities of the circumstances surrounding the bombing.
United States · United States Congress · 2 September 1976
Designates as wilderness specified lands within the following components of the National Wildlife Refuge System and the National Forest System: (1) Simeonof National Wildlife Refuge, Alaska; (2) Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge, Arkansas; (3) Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge, Florida; (4) J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge, Florida; (5) Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge, Florida; (6) Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, Illinois; (7) Lacassine National Wildlife Refuge, Louisiana; (8) Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge, Minnesota; (9) Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge, Minnesota; (10) Mingo National Wildlife Refuge, Missouri; (11) Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge, Montana; (12) Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge, Nebraska; (13) Swanquarter National Wildlife Refuge, North Carolina; (14) Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge, Oregon; (15) San Juan Islands National Wildlife Refuge, Washington; (16) Shoshone National Forest, Wyoming; (17) Sierra National Forest, California; (18) Mark Twain National Forest, Missouri; and (19) Cibola National Forest, New Mexico. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to review the suitability of, and the President to submit recommendations relative to, preserving as wilderness specified lands within the following national forests: (1) Angeles National Forest, California; (2) San Bernadino National Forest, California; (3) Mendocino National Forest, California; (4) Mark Twain National Forest, Missouri; (5) Flathead National Forest, Montana; and (6) Lewis and Clark National Forest, Montana.
United States · United States Congress · 10 August 1976
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the President shall submit a full report to Congress on fundamental human rights and cultural freedoms in Romania with special emphasis on the national minorities, showing concrete measures taken to ameliorate their situation by the Romanian Government. Directs that should no ameliorative measures occur, it is the sense of the House that the 1975 United States-Romanian Trade Agreement and the most-favored-nation treatment of the Socialist Republic of Romania shall not be extended.
United States · United States Congress · 30 July 1976
Aircraft Noise Reduction and Airport Protection Act - Directs the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration to promulgate regulations prescribing noise standards for the operation of civil subsonic turbojet powered aircraft above a specified weight at any airport within the United States. States that such regulations shall provide for requirements of partial compliance at intervals prior to the end of a five-year period after the enactment of this Act. Prohibits the operation of aircraft which do not meet such requirements at the end of such five-year period. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to publish a list of the operators of noncomplying aircraft. Authorizes grants to such individuals to retrofit or replace such noncomplying aircraft. Authorizes appropriations out of the Airport and Airway Trust Fund of $300,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 1977, 1978, 1979, and 1980 to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 28 July 1976
Government Economy and Spending Reform Act - Title I: Authorizations of New Budget Authority - Terminates on specified dates budget authority for all Government programs except health care services, general retirement and disability insurance, and Federal employee retirement and disability programs which are funded by trust funds. Declares out of order in either the Senate or the House of Representatives any legislation which authorizes new budget authority not in compliance with this Act. Requires the Committees on Appropriations and the Committees on the Budget of both Houses of Congress to identify each program's functional and subfunctional category (as so characterized in the Budget of the United States, Fiscal Year 1977, transmitted to Congress by the President on January 21, 1976), the committees having legislative jurisdiction over such program, and whether such program operates under permanent authorizations and budget authority. Makes the budget termination provisions of this Act effective on the first day of the Ninety-fifth Congress. Title II: Early Elimination of Inactive and Duplicate Programs - Requires the Comptroller General of the United States to identify for Congress any programs which have duplicate objectives or for which no outlays have been made for the last two fiscal years. Directs the standing committees of both Houses to consider such programs and report recommendations on such programs before March 15, 1978, if possible. Title III: Quadrennial Program Review and Evaluation - Sets forth a timetable for reviewing the budget of a Government program. Requires review by standing committees of the Congress every four years of each program's cost, effectiveness, and the extent to which such program duplicates or is similar to any other program. States that such review shall include a comprehensive evaluation of the merits of such program to determine if it warrants continuation. Requires justification of any recommendation to fund any program which has objectives similar to or the same as another program's objectives. Directs the Comptroller General and the Congressional Budget Office to provide Congress with information and analysis of programs being reviewed under this Act. Requires the President to similarly review the merits of continuing programs contained in the annual Budget and to report the finding of such review prior to transmitting the Budget to Congress. Title IV: Continuing Review and Evaluation - Directs the Comptroller General to report to Congress the result of any audit which shows a substantial deficiency in achievement of the objectives of any Government program. Requires subsequent audits, a report of which must be submitted to Congress, to determine if such deficiency has been eliminated. Title V: Miscellaneous - States that those provisions of this Act which direct the operation of either House are enacted as an exercise of the rulemaking power of such House and recognizes the right of either House to change such rules.
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 1976
Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to reimburse State and local governments for expenditures made at the request of the United States Secret Service for the protection of any person the Service is authorized to protect.
United States · United States Congress · 20 July 1976
Establishes within the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare the Office of Inspector General comprised of an Inspector General and a Deputy Inspector General appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Provides that the Inspector General and Deputy shall be removed from office only by impeachment or by the President but only for malfeasance, criminal conduct, incompetence, gross neglect of duty, or disability. States that they shall be subject only to the general supervision of the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare. Sets forth the duties of the Office which include promoting economy and efficiency and preventing and detecting fraud and abuse of the programs and operations of the Department. Requires the Office to report to the Secretary and Congress with respect to its findings and activities quarterly or whenever the Office becomes aware of particularly serious or flagrant problems or abuse. Transfers to the Office the functions of the HEW Audit Agency and the Department's Office of Investigations.
United States · United States Congress · 1 July 1976
Creates a House select committee which shall conduct an investigation of all records, memorandums, papers, documents, books, and other information of any standing or select committee of the House or officer of the House respecting expenses incurred by or on behalf of any such committee or its members or employees.
United States · United States Congress · 9 June 1976
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the Government and people of the United States welcome a new President by the Assembly of Lebonan. Welcomes the President's request for funds to assist in the relief of victims of the armed strife in the nation. Urges the President to declare the willingness of the United States to participate in multilateral assistance programs to help in the reconstruction of Lebanon. Encourages a ceasefire in Lebanon.
United States · United States Congress · 7 June 1976
Agenda for Government Reform Act - Directs the President to report to Congress concerning the effects of Federal agency activity upon: (1) the transportation and agriculture industries by January 31, 1978; (2) the mining, heavy manufacturing, and public utilities industries by January 31, 1979; (3) the light manufacturing and construction industries by January 31, 1980; and (4) the communications, finance, insurance, real estate, trade, and service industries by January 31, 1981. Requires that such report include a determination of whether any such agency activity has fulfilled its purposes, whether it is duplicative or conflicts with other agency activity, and whether the benefits of such activity exceed its costs. Directs the President to present in such report his recommendation for reform. States that the Congressional committee to which a proposal made by the President is referred must report to its respective House a bill approving or disapproving, in whole or in part, such proposal. Provides that if such a bill has not been reported by November 15 next following the submission of such report, the President's proposal shall become the pending order of business in both Houses and remain so until acted upon.
United States · United States Congress · 19 May 1976
Directs the President to require the head of each executive department and agency to establish an Office of Hispanic Affairs. Provides that such office shall participate in all policy planning and development for all programs which impact the Hispanic communities. Directs the President to take such measures, as may be necessary, to insure that the Chairpersons of the ten Federal Regional Councils establish and maintain a Regional Office of Hispanic Affairs. Provides that the Regional Offices of Hispanic Affairs shall advise all executive departments and agencies regarding the needs of Hispanics in the region. Provides that the Secretary of Commerce shall establish and maintain a Hispanic Information Clearinghouse which shall collect, analyze, and disseminate information concerning the social, economic, employment, health, and housing needs and conditions of Hispanics.
United States · United States Congress · 18 May 1976
Save the Whales Act - Directs the Secretary of Commerce to identify any foreign enterprise engaging in commercial whaling. Directs the Secretary to publish the names of such enterprises. Provides that foreign enterprises acquiring equipment designed to be used in whaling shall be deemed to be engaged in commercial whaling. Provides that in determining the allocation among foreign nations of the total allowable level of foreign fishing which is permitted with respect to any fishery subject to the exclusive fishery management authority of the United States, the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Commerce shall take into consideration whether the foreign country involved has engaged in commercial whaling.
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 1976
Amends the Emergency Petroleum Allocation Act of 1973 to authorize the President to exempt crude oil produced from conventional waterflooding or enhanced recovery techniques from price controls imposed by such Act. Establishes criteria for determining whether or not an exemption is justified in view of increased costs associated with such techniques, and other factors.
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 1976
Earthquake Research and Preparedness Act - Title I: Federal Research Program on Earthquake Prediction and Control - Establishes a Federal Council on Earthquake Research Prediction and Control. Directs such Council to develop a comprehensive plan and program of necessary Federal research on earthquakes and related natural occurrences. Lists specific projects which must be included within the comprehensive plan and program. Designates the Geological Survey and National Science Foundation to conduct the research required under this title unless otherwise indicated in this Act. Title II: National Earthquake Prediction, Preparedness, and Coordination Program - Establishes a National Earthquake Prediction, Preparedness, and Coordination Board. Directs such Board to develop a comprehensive plan and program for earthquake prediction, preparedness, and coordination.u42 Requires that such plan and program include specified projects, including an earthquake prediction system for areas of high seismic risk.
United States · United States Congress · 10 May 1976
National Energy Extension Service Act - Establishes an Energy Extension Service in the Energy Research and Development Administration to develop and implement a comprehensive program for the identification and application of energy conserving practices and techniques. Stipulates that programs shall provide for technical assistance and practical demonstration in the agricultural, commercial, residential, and small business sectors. Stipulates that such program shall be implemented in a manner designed to minimize conflict with existing services in the private sector of the economy. Establishes procedures and criteria for the development of State plans for implementing the provisions of this Act. Allows for Federal development of plans for States in which an acceptable plan has not been submitted. Directs the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration to develop a comprehensive program and plan for coordination of Federal energy education and information dissemination programs. Stipulates that such plan shall detail procedures for assessing the energy efficiency of various Federal programs. Establishes a National Energy Extension Service Advisory Board to conduct a continuing review of the programs developed under this Act. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary for the purposes of this Act. Stipulates that the annual authorization for such programs may be included in the annual authorization for nonnuclear programs of the Energy Research and Development Administration. Prescribes a formula for allocation of such funds to the States.
United States · United States Congress · 7 May 1976
Authorizes a taxpayer, under the Internal Revenue Code, to elect to treat qualified architectural and transportational barrier removal expenses which are paid or incurred during the taxable year as expenses which are not chargeable to capital account. Deems such expenses so treated as allowable tax deductible expenditures.
United States · United States Congress · 6 May 1976
Earthquake Research and Preparedness Act - Title I: Federal Research Program on Earthquake Prediction and Control - Establishes a Federal Council on Earthquake Research Prediction, and control. Directs such Council to develop a comprehensive plan and program of necessary Federal research on earthquakes and related natural occurrences. Lists specific projects which must be included within the comprehensive plan and program. Designates the Geological Survey and National Science Foundation to conduct the research required under this title unless otherwise indicated in this Act. Title II: National Earthquake Prediction, Preparedness, and Coordination Program - Establishes a National Earthquake Prediction, Preparedness, and Coordination Council. Directs such Council to develop a comprehensive plan and program for earthquake prediction, preparedness, and coordination. Requires that such plan and program include specified projects, including an earthquake prediction system for areas of high seismic risk.
United States · United States Congress · 27 April 1976
Replaces Federal criminal statutory provisions penalizing "rape" and "carnal knowledge of females under 16" with provisions penalizing "sexual assault." Designates guilty of sexual assault any person who knowingly engages in sexual contact or penetration of another person without such person's consent. Imposes penalties for sexual contact or penetration of any person who has not attained the age of 18, notwithstanding such person's consent. Sets forth penalties for such assault according to specified criteria, including the consideration of aggravating factors. Specifies procedures for medical examination of alleged victims of offenses under this Act. Prohibits the introduction of evidence of the victim's prior sexual activity unless the court determines after an in camera hearing that the evidence is relevant and material and does not constitute an unnecessary invasion of privacy. (Amends 18 U.S.C. 2031-35)
United States · United States Congress · 26 April 1976
Revises the Fisherman's Protective Act by directing the Secretary of Commerce, before the 90-day period after the date of the enactment of this Act, to identify any foreign enterprise engaging in commercial whaling. States that the names of such enterprises shall be published in the Federal Register. States that it shall be unlawful for any article produced or distributed by such enterprise to be imported into the United States. Provides that such sanctions shall continue until the foreign enterprise concerned has ceased to engage in commercial whaling. Provides that any action by such an enterprise to dismantle or convert any vessel used in commercial whaling shall be deemed to be prima facie evidence that such enterprise has ceased to engage in commercial whaling. Specifies that the sanctions shall continue to apply to any such enterprise which transfers whaling equipment to another enterprise which is engaged in whaling.
United States · United States Congress · 13 April 1976
Directs the Secretary of the Interior to establish the Santa Monica Mountains and Seashore Urban National Parks in California. Establishes the Santa Monica Mountains and Seashore Urban National Park Advisory Commission to assist the Secretary in carrying out the provisions of this Act. Terminates the Commission ten years after the establishment of the park.
United States · United States Congress · 9 April 1976
Establishes a Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe. Authorizes and directs the Commission to monitor the acts of the signatories to the Final Act of the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe (Helsinki Agreement) with respect to their compliance with the articles of such Act, particularly with regard to the provisions relating to cooperation in humanitarian fields. Stipulates that the Commission shall be composed of four Members of the House of Representatives, four Senators, and one member each of the Departments of State, Defense, and Commerce, as appointed by the President.
United States · United States Congress · 6 April 1976
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to increase the percentage standard deduction to an amount equal to 20 percent of adjusted gross income but not to exceed (1) $3,000 in the case of a joint return or a surviving spouse, (2) $2,500 in the case of an unmarried individual, or (3) $1,500 in the case of a married individual filing a separate return.
United States · United States Congress · 29 March 1976
Arts, Humanities, and Cultural Affairs Act - Title I: Arts and Humanities - Amends the National Foundation on the Arts and the Humanities Act to authorize the Chairman of the of the National Endowment for the Humanities to establish grants-in-aid programs in each State to develop and promote the humanities. Sets forth standards relating to program administration for plans submitted by persons and entities seeking assistance. Prohibits the Chairman from making grants to more than one person or entity in any State. Specifies a formula for alloting funds appropriated for grants-in-aid. Authorizes appropriation to the National Endowment for the Arts and to the National Endowment for the Humanities of specified sums for fiscal years 1977 and 1978 and such funds as may be necessary for fiscal years 1979 and 1980. Revises the maximum amount which may be appropriated to such Endowments as grants matching amounts received through donation, bequest, and devise. Requires the President to appoint members of the National Council on the Arts and members of the National Council on the Humanities with the advice and consent of the Senate. Title II: Museum Services - Museum Services Act - Establishes within the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare an Institute of Museum Services, consisting of a National Museum Services Board and a Director of the Institute. Authorizes the Director, subject to the advice of the Board, to make grants to museums to increase and improve museum services. Confers authority to the Institute to accept grants, gifts, or bequests of money for immediate disbursement in furtherance of the functions of the Institute. Directs the Federal Council on the Arts and Humanities to advise and consult with the Board and the Director on major problems incurred by the Institute and to coordinate the Institute's policies and activities with those of the National Endowment for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Humanities. Authorizes the appropriation of funds for grants by the Institute for fiscal years 1977 through 1980. Title III: Challenge Grant Program - Authorizes the Chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts to establish a program of contracts with, or grants-in-aid to, public agencies and private nonprofit organizations for the purpose of assisting cultural organizations and institutions and promoting citizen involvement with such bodies. Authorizes the appropriation of funds through fiscal year 1980 to carry out such program.
United States · United States Congress · 29 March 1976
Vocational Education Amendments - Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1977 to carry out specified provisions of the Vocational Education Act of 1963. Directs the Commissioner of Education to reserve a portion of specified appropriations for transfer to the National Occupational Information Coordinating Committee and for vocational education programs for Indians. Requires States desiring to participate in programs authorized by such Act to designate or establish a State board, which shall be the sole agency responsible for the administration or supervision of the administration of such programs. States that the responsibilities of such board shall include: (1) the development of policy with respect to vocational education programs; and (2) the development and submission to the Commissioner of the three-year State plan and the annual accountability required under such Act. Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to establish a Bureau of Occupational and Adult Education within the Office of Education to be responsible for: (1) the administration of any Acts of Congress vesting authority in the Commissioner for vocational, occupational, adult and continuing education programs; (2) the administration of those portions of Acts relating to career education which are relevant to the purposes of other Acts administered by the Bureau; and (3) the functions of the Office of Education relating to manpower training and vocational, technical and occupational training in community and junior colleges. Directs such Bureau to conduct a comprehensive review analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of the programs assisted with funds under such Act. Directs the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare to conduct a fiscal audit of such programs, within each State. Includes, in the membership of the National Advisory Council on Vocational Education and the State advisory councils established under the Vocational Education Act of 1963, representatives of nonprofit private schools, women knowledgeable with the problems of sex discrimination in job training, and persons knowledgeable in the field of guidance and counseling. States that such councils shall have a majority membership of persons who are not educators or administrators in the field of education. Directs such National Council, in conjunction with the National Commission for Manpower Policy, and State advisory councils in conjunction with the State Manpower Services Councils, to identify the vocational and manpower needs of the Nation and assess the extent to which vocational programs represent an integrated and coordinated approach to meeting such needs. Includes in the membership of the National Commission for Manpower Policy a representative of the National Advisory Council on Vocational Education. Authorizes appropriations under the Vocational Education Act of 1963 for the purpose of making grants to State advisory councils to carry out the functions of such councils. Stipulates how such sums are to be apportioned. Requires States desiring to receive funds under such Act to submit a three-year plan for vocational education to the Commissioner. Authorizes appropriations for: (1) the preparation and updating of such plans; (2) the preparation of the annual accountability report required under such Act; and (3) program evaluation. Lists the State agencies which the State board shall involve in the participation and formulation of such plan. Requires that such plans: (1) assess the present and future needs for job skills within the State; (2) set forth the objectives sought and the means employed in meeting the need for such job skills; and (3) set forth how the funds made available under such Act shall be used. Authorizes the Commissioner, whenever a plan or the administration of such plan no longer complies with such requirement, to withhold payments to such State until he or she is satisfied that there will no longer be such failure to comply. Requires each State participating in programs under such Act to submit to the Commissioner an annual accountability report which shall: (1) include any necessary updating of the State plan; (2) show the extent to which the objectives of the plan have been achieved; (3) how State, local, and Federal funds were used and distributed to achieve such objectives; and (4) a summary of the evaluations of vocational programs. Requires States to evaluate the effectiveness of such vocational education programs. Sets forth specified criteria to be used in making such evaluation. Directs the Commissioner to further prescribe nationally uniform criteria and procedures to be used in such evaluations. Directs the Commissioner and Administrator of the National Center for Education Statistics to jointly develop information and uniform definitions for a national vocational education data reporting and accounting system including information on vocational students, programs, program completers, staff, facilities and expenditures. Directs the Commissioner in conjunction with the Administrator to prepare an annual report on the status of vocational education. Establishes a National Occupational Information Coordinating Committee to: (1) improve coordination between administrators and planners of vocational education programs; (2) to develop and implement an occupational information system to meet the needs of vocational education programs, and employment and training programs; and (3) assist the State occupational information committees which are required to be established pursuant to this Act for the planning and operation of similar programs at the State level. Revises the authorized uses of funds for State vocational education programs. Authorizes appropriations which States may use for: (1) special programs for disadvantaged persons as defined in this Act; (2) supportive services for basic vocational education programs; (3) support of State research coordinating units and for contracts made by such units pursuant to comprehensive plans of program improvement; (4) construction, equipment, and operation of residential schools to provide vocational education; (5) cooperative vocational education programs; and (6) work-study programs. Directs the Commissioner to pay to each State participating in vocational education programs, an amount equal to 50 percent of the State and local expenditures in carrying out its State plan. Sets forth formulas to determine the amount of Federal payments to States for various programs under this Act. Authorizes appropriations through fiscal year 1981 for consumer and homemaking education programs under the Vocational Education Act of 1963. Sets forth the requirements for State plans to be eligible for funds for such programs. Directs the Commissioner, from funds reserved under this Act, to use such funds for contracts for program improvement projects and for the support of a national center for research in vocational education. States that such Center shall, either directly or through contracts: (1) conduct applied research and development on problems of national significance in vocational education and disseminate the results of such projects; (2) provide leadership development through an advanced study center and inservice education activities for State and local leaders in vocational education; (3) develop and provide information to facilitate national planning and policy development in vocational education; (4) act as a clearinghouse for information on contracts made for program inprovement projects; and (5) develop methods of evaluating programs. Establishes within the Education Division of the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare a Coordinating Committee on Research in Vocational Education to: (1) develop a plan establishing national priorities for the use of funds for vocational education programs, projects, and research and to coordinate the efforts of various agencies in seeking to achieve such priorities; and (2) develop a management information system on the projects funded pursuant to such plan. Directs the Commissioner of Education, with the Secretary of Labor, to develop and disseminate information on the status of bilingual education in the United States and to evaluate the impact of such education on the shortages of well-trained personnel and the unemployment of persons with limited English-speaking ability. Authorizes the Commissioner to enter into contracts for bilingual vocational education programs. Sets forth the purposes for which such contracts or grants may be used. Directs qualified vocational educators to provide such individuals an opportunity to spend full time in advanced study of vocational education for a maximum three year period. Directs the Commissioner to pay to the institutions of higher education in which such individual is pursuing his or her course of study such amounts as are consistent with the prevailing practices under comparable federally supported programs. Sets forth the requirements an institution must meet to have its vocational education leadership development program approved by the Commissioner. Directs the National Institute of Education to undertake an evaluation and study of vocational education programs. States that such Institution shall make an interim report on the results of such study to the President and Congress by September 30, 1979, and a final reprot by September 30, 1980. Directs the National Center for Education Statistics to coordinate data collection and the formation and issuance of applications for vocational education programs and to disseminate summaries of such data collected to States, local educational agencies, and colleges and universities. Repeals provisions of the Higher Education Act of 1965 relating to occupational education programs. Extends the authorization for appropriations until 1978 for grants to States under the National Defense Education Act. Sets forth the effective dates for the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 24 March 1976
Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to reimburse State and local governments for expenditures made at the request of the United States Secret Service for the protection of any person the Service is authorized to protect.
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1976
Title I: Amends the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act of 1965 to increase the amount of appropriations authorized under such Act to $300,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $450,000,000 for fiscal year 1978, $625,000,000 for fiscal year 1979, and $800,000,000 for each fiscal year thereafter through fiscal year 1989. Revises procedures for the apportionment of land and water conservation fund moneys to States by the Secretary of the Interior. Imposes public participation requirements with respect to the preparation of comprehensive statewide outdoor recreation plans. Authorizes Federal financial assistance for the planning and development of sheltered facilities for swimming pools and ice skating rinks, provided specified conditions are met. Title II: Amends the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 to establish a historic preservation fund in the United States Treasury. Stipulates that $24,400,000 for fiscal year 1977, $75,000,000 annually for fiscal years 1978 and 1979 and $100,000,000 annually for each fiscal year thereafter until fiscal year 1989 be covered into the fund from revenues due and payable to the United States under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act and other Federal Mining laws. Stipulates that such moneys shall remain available until appropriated to carry out the purposes of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. Authorizes the appropriation of $175,000 per year for fiscal years 1977,1978, and 1979 for the International Center for the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property.
United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1976
Authorizes appropriations under the Federal Fire Prevention and Control Act of $15,000,000 for fiscal year 1977 and $20,000,000 for fiscal 1978. Authorizes appropriations for fire research and safety of $5,500,000 for fiscal year 1977 and $6,000,000 for fiscal year 1978. Prohibits the Administrator of the National Fire Prevention and Control Administration from conducting fire research without the specific authorization of the Secretary of Commerce. Stipulates that no commitment to obligate funds for the construction of any facility of the National Academy for Fire Prevention and Control shall be made unless the Congress approves.
United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1976
Provides, under the Legislative Reorganization Act, that pay adjustments for Members of Congress may take effect no earlier than the beginning of the Congress next following the Congress in which they are approved.
United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1976
Financial Assistance for Elementary and Secondary Education Act - Title I: General Provisions - Authorizes appropriations for purposes of titles II and III of this Act. States that an amount not to exceed three percent of such appropriations be used to meet the education needs existing in American territories and for Indian children at schools operated by the Department of Interior. Allots to each State from such appropriations $5,000,000 annually or the amount allotted to that State in the preceding fiscal year under this Act or programs consolidated under this Act whichever is less and 85 percent of the amount in excess of $5,000,000 allotted to that State under such programs. Directs that the remaining appropriations be allocated to each State based on a ratio of the number of children from low-income areas in such State. Requires that any State desiring grants under this Act: (1) designate the agency which will administer such assistance; (2) develop a plan meeting specified requirements for the use of such funds; (3) certify to the Commissioner of Education that it has such a plan; (4) certify annually that it has complied with such plan; (5) develop procedures for the periodic determination of the State's compliance with its plan; (6) submit such procedures to the Commissioner for approval; and (7) provide for an annual audit of expenditures from such grants and report the results of such audit to the Commissioner. Requires that any State procedures for developing such plan provide for public notification and a means for obtaining the views of specified parties regarding such plan. States that a State comprehensive plan shall: (1) set forth the objectives to be achieved under the plan; (2) provide for the allocation of funds in accordance with the requirements of this Act; and (3) set forth procedures to insure that distribution to local educational agencies take into account the number and concentration of children from low-income families and educationally deprived and handicapped children. Requires that at least 75 percent of the funds provided under this Act be distributed to local educational agencies to meet the special educational needs of educationally deprived and handicapped children. Directs that not more than five percent of the amount made available under this Act, or the percentage available under programs consolidated under this Act for administrative costs, whichever is greater, be used for the administration of the State plan. Authorizes the State agency designated to carry out the purposes of this Act to delegate administrative functions to other agencies, transfer funds to such agency, and enter into contracts to carry out activities authorized under this Act. Prohibits the payment of funds to any State which has failed to certify its plan and compliance with such plan to the Commissioner. Authorizes the Commissioner to suspend or reduce payments to States which failed substantially to comply with the provisions of such plan or specified provisions of this Act. Allows such State to file a petition of review with the United States court of appeals for the circuit in which the State is located. States that any findings of the Commissioner, if supported by substantial evidence, shall be conclusive in such action. Requires that any audit of funds provided under this Act be limited to such funds. Subjects funds available under this Act to title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and provisions forbidding the discrimination against qualified handicapped individuals under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Directs State educational agencies to insure that children enrolled in private nonprofit elementary and secondary schools and children in Indian tribal elementary or secondary schools are given an opportunity to participate in activities assisted under this Act. Authorizes the Commissioner to arrange for such children to receive similar services to those provided under this Act if the State is prohibited by law from providing for such participation or has failed to do so. Defines terms for purposes of this Act. Repeals specified Acts and provisions of Federal Acts. Title II: Elementary and Secondary Handicapped and Adult Education Programs - Directs that State comprehensive plans under this Act include programs for educationally deprived and handicapped children in the State and adult education. Specifies allowable further uses of such funds. Sets forth the allocation of funds available under this Act to local educational agencies to meet the special educational needs of educationally deprived and handicapped children. Title III: Vocational Education - States that a specified portion of funds available under this Act be used for vocational education purposes. Sets forth requirements for a State's vocational education programs. Specifies programs and activities for which available funds may be used. Title IV: National Impact Projects - Declares it the purpose of this title to provide support for special activities, and for innovation and development in vocational education and the education of the handicapped through projects which can be more effectively carried out on a national or regional basis. Authorizes the Commissioner to carry out specified activities relating to such purpose. Authorizes appropriations of $69,000,000 annually through fiscal year 1980 to carry out the purposes of this title.
United States · United States Congress · 11 March 1976
National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act - Authorizes the appropriation of designated sums to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration for research and development programs, construction of facilities including land acquisition, and research and program management. Permits utilization of research and development appropriations for: (1) items of a capital nature which may be required at locations other than installations of the Administration for the performance of research and development contracts, and (2) grants to nonprofit institutions of higher education, or to nonprofit organizations whose primary purpose is the conduct of scientific research, for purchase or construction of additional research facilities. Sets forth further guidelines regarding the use and availability of funds appropriated pursuant to this Act. Specifies procedures where amounts designated for specific programs may be varied upward and whereby up to one half of one percent of the funds appropriated for research and development may be combined with $10,000,000 of funds appropriated for facility construction to construct or modify laboratories or other installations deemed by the Administration to be immediatley needed. Prohibits utilization of sums appropriated pursuant to this Act for: (1) any research or management program in excess of the amount specifically authorized for that program, (2) any program deleted by Congress from requests originally made, or (3) any program which has not been presented to either the House Committee on Science and Technology or the Senate Committee on Aeronautical and Space Sciences unless each such Committee has been given notice of any such proposed action and transmits written notice to the Administration that it has no objection. Directs the Administration to consider geographical distribution whenever feasible in allocating its research and development funds. Authorizes the Administration, when so provided in appropriation Acts, to enter into and to maintain a contract for tracking and data relay satellite services. Establishes an additional Associate Administrator for Advanced Research and Technology within the Administration. Revises the compensation of members of the Aerospace Safety Advisory Panel. Expresses the sense of Congress regarding the need for, and the construction, modernization, and availability of aeronautical test facilities. Declares that Congress finds that the general welfare of the United States requires application of the Administration's expertise to ground propulsion systems research and development.
United States · United States Congress · 4 March 1976
Requires that whoever uses or carries a firearm during the commission of a felony which may be prosecuted in a Federal court be sentenced to a term of imprisonment for not less than five nor more than 15 years in addition to the punishment provided for such felony. Requires that in the case of a second or subsequent such conviction, the felon be sentenced to a term of imprisonment for not less than ten nor more than 30 years. Classifies felons using or carrying firearms as dangerous special offenders, making such felons subject to an increased sentence at the determination of the court.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1976
Federal Regulatory Public Cost Evaluation Amendments - Sets forth the findings of Congress that the present and recurring economic conditions in the United States are in part attributable to Federal agency regulations which result in unreasonable costs to the public. Declares that the purpose of this Act is to provide a means for establishing the costs and benefits of agency rules which impact costs to the public. Requires that, with respect to any rule which has a significant impact on costs to the public, the announcement of any rulemaking proceeding, the record of such proceeding, and the rule promulgated must contain a statement reflecting costs to the public and benefits to be derived from such proposed or promulgated rule. Requires that any Federal agency proposing such a rule must solicit the views of any other appropriate agency or person which may have a basis for evaluating such costs and benefits. Requires the Office of Consumer Affairs to also make such comparison for consideration during a rulemaking proceeding. Requires the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to prepare guidelines for the preparations of public cost and benefit comparisons. (Amends 5 U.S.C. 553, 557)
United States · United States Congress · 25 February 1976
Replaces Federal criminal statutory provisions penalizing "rape" and "carnal knowledge of females under 16" with provisions penalizing "sexual assault." Designates guilty of sexual assault any person who knowingly engages in sexual contact or penetration of another person without such person's consent. Imposes penalties for sexual contact or penetration of any person who has not attained the age of 18, notwithstanding such person's consent. Sets forth penalties for such assault according to specified criteria, including the consideration of aggravating factors. Specifies procedures for medical examination of alleged victims of offenses under this Act. Prohibits the introduction of evidence of the victim's prior sexual activity unless the court determines after an in camera hearing that the evidence is relevant and material and does not constitute an unnecessary invasion of privacy. (Amends 18 U.S.C. 2031-35)
United States · United States Congress · 25 February 1976
Provides, under the Legislative Reorganization Act, that pay adjustments for Members of Congress may take effect no earlier than the beginning of the Congress next following the Congress in which they are approved.
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1976
Prohibits instrumentalities of the Federal Government from requiring nonessential declarations of marital status or the nonessential use of prefixes indicating such status, in connection with (1) carrying on of correspondence, (2) keeping of records, (3) filing of any written instrument as an application for employment, or (4) issuance of any certificate, document, or other written instrument.
United States · United States Congress · 11 February 1976
Prohibits the use of political contributions to pay printing or preparation costs of frankable mail. Prohibits a person entitled to use a frank from lending it to or permitting its use by any person in connection with any mass mailing.
United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1976
Expresses the solidarity of the American people in efforts to enlarge human freedom by the participants in the second Brussels conference, February 17 to 19, 1976.
United States · United States Congress · 4 February 1976
Regulatory Agency Review Act - Sets forth the findings of Congress that some Federal regulatory agencies have unduly interferred with business and the economy. Declares the purpose of this Act is to terminate Federal regulatory agencies unless the President and the Congress determine that such agencies should not be terminated. Defines the terms used in this Act. Sets forth procedures to determine which agencies or functions of agencies are regulatory in nature and subject to termination by this Act. Terminates all Federal regulatory agencies and regulatory functions of other agencies three years from the date of enactment of this Act unless Congress and the President act to continue such agency. Terminates all regulatory agencies created after the enactment of this Act and regulatory functions transferred to other agencies after the enactment of this Act five years after such creation or transfer unless the President and Congress act to continue such agency or function. States that any such continued agency or function shall terminate five years later unless again continued. Directs the President to conduct a study of agencies and functions subject to termination and to recommend to Congress their continuation or termination based on such agency's effectiveness and contribution to the general welfare. Allows the President to recommend modifications to an agency he suggests should be continued. Requires the President to develop a plan to transfer regulatory functions of agencies subject to termination which the President determines are essential to the public health, safety, or welfare to other agencies. Enacts such plan unless either House of Congress adopts a resolution of disapproval. Sets forth procedures for consideration of such plan for both Houses. States that a disapproval resolution may direct the President to establish an alternative plan which is enacted unless similarly disapproved. Authorizes the President to transfer such personnel, property, and funds as he determines relate primarily to such transferred functions. Directs the President to provide for the termination of orders, regulations, and permits allowed to become effective by a terminated agency. States that all orders, regulations, and permits allowed to become effective under a transferred regulatory function shall continue in effect until modified or repealed by the head of the agency to which such function has been transferred. Directs that judicial proceedings concerning a transferred function not be discontinued solely because a Federal regulatory agency to which it once belonged is terminated unless such proceeding has become unnecessary. Discontinues judicial proceedings involving an agency terminated by this Act the functions of which are not transferred, except under specified circumstances. Continues administrative proceedings with respect to functions which have been transferred under this Act and terminates all other such proceedings of the terminated agency.
United States · United States Congress · 22 January 1976
Government in the Sunshine Act - States that this Act applies to the Federal Election Commission and to any agency where the collegial body comprising the agency consists of two or more individual members, at least a majority of whom are appointed to such position by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate. Provides that all meetings of such collegial body, or of a subdivision thereof authorized to take action on behalf of the agency, shall be open to the public. Requires such agency to make public announcement, at least one week before the meeting, of the date, place, and subject matter of the meeting, whether open or closed to the public, and the name and phone number of the official designated by the agency to respond to requests for information about the meeting. Exempts meetings when publicity would result in disclosure of matters: (1) necessary to keep secret in the interests of national defense or foreign policy; (2) not warranting an invasion of personal privacy; (3) constituting trade secrets; and (4) other matters the disclosure of which would not be in the public interest. States that the district courts of the United States shall have jurisdiction to enforce the requirements of this Act by declaratory judgment, injunctive relief, or other relief as may be appropriate. Prohibits the making of an ex parte communication relevant to the merits of the proceeding by an interested person outside the agency to anyone involved in the decisional process of the proceedings.
United States · United States Congress · 19 December 1975
Directs the Secretary of the Interior to establish an Outer Continental Shelf Research, Development, and Resource Assessment Project to be managed by the Secretary through such office or agency within the Interior Department as he shall designate. Provides for the coordination of Federal agencies in the conduct by them of parts or aspects of the project within their particular competence. Requires the Secretary, acting through his designee, to: (1) assess the oil and gas resources of the Outer Continental Shelf on a continuing basis; (2) conduct research and studies with the assistance and participation of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service into the environmental effects of developing Outer Continental Shelf minerals; and (3) conduct a research, development, and demonstration program concerning better methods, procedures, and technology for predicting the existence of oil and gas resources of the Outer Continental Shelf. Directs specified Federal agencies to conduct related programs for the development and protection of the Outer Continental Shelf.
United States · United States Congress · 18 December 1975
Extends appropriations authorized under the Library Services and Construction Act until September 30, 1981. Authorizes, for the purpose of making grants to States for library services, $100,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $110,000,000 for fiscal year 1978, $130,000,000 for fiscal year ending 1979 and such sums as may be necessary for the fiscal years 1980, and 1981. Provides that for the purpose of making grants to States for public library construction there shall be authorized an appropriation of such sums as may be necessary for the period beginning July 1, ending September 30, 1976, and for fiscal years 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980 and 1981. 30, 1981. States that for the purpose of making grants to States to enable them to carry out interlibrary cooperation programs there shall be authorized an appropriation of such sums as may be necessary for the period beginning July 1, 1976, and ending September 30, 1976, $10,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $15,000,000 for fiscal year 1978, $20,000,000 for fiscal year 1979, and such sums as may be necessary for fiscal years 1980, and 1981. Authorizes, for the same time periods such appropriations as may be necessary to enable the States to carry out public library service programs for older persons. Provides that administrative costs in connection with any program or activity carried out by any State under this Act shall be matched by such State from funds other than Federal funds.
United States · United States Congress · 18 December 1975
Extends appropriations authorized under the Library Services and Construction Act until September 30, 1981. Authorizes, for the purpose of making grants to States for library services, $100,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $110,000,000 for fiscal year 1978, $130,000,000 for fiscal year ending 1979 and such sums as may be necessary for the fiscal years 1980, and 1981. Provides that for the purpose of making grants to States for public library construction there shall be authorized an appropriation of such sums as may be necessary for the period beginning July 1, ending September 30, 1976, and for fiscal years 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980 and 1981. 30, 1981. States that for the purpose of making grants to States to enable them to carry out interlibrary cooperation programs there shall be authorized an appropriation of such sums as may be necessary for the period beginning July 1, 1976, and ending September 30, 1976, $10,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $15,000,000 for fiscal year 1978, $20,000,000 for fiscal year 1979, and such sums as may be necessary for fiscal years 1980, and 1981. Authorizes, for the same time periods such appropriations as may be necessary to enable the States to carry out public library service programs for older persons. Provides that administrative costs in connection with any program or activity carried out by any State under this Act shall be matched by such State from funds other than Federal funds.
![Official portrait of Rep. Bell, Alphonzo [R-CA-27]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/b000330_200.jpg)