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![Official portrait of Rep. Blanchard, James [D-MI-18]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/b000538_200.jpg)
United States · Official source
1,059 records where Rep. Blanchard, James [D-MI-18] is listed as a sponsor, author, or other actor. Search with topics and years
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1976
Removes the time limitations within which educational assistance furnished by the Veterans' Administration must be used. (Amends 38 U.S.C. 1662)
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 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 · 29 January 1976
Requires, where a defendent is found guilty of or pleads guilty to an explosive related offense for which one of the possible sentences is death, that the judge who presided at the trial or before whom the guilty plea was entered conduct a separate hearing to determine the existence of mitigating and aggravating factors. Dismisses such requirement where the Government stipulates that none of the aggravating factors exists or that one or more of the mitigating factors exists. Requires that the hearing be conducted before a jury or, if the defendent so moves, before the court alone, if the court and the Government approve. Requires the court to disclose to the defendant or his counsel all material contained in any presentence report, if one has been prepared, except such material as the court determines is required to be withheld for the protection of human life or for the protection of national security. Removes from consideration any such presentence information withheld from the defendant. Sets forth trial procedures and directs the jury, or the court to return a special verdict setting forth its findings as to the existence or nonexistence of each aggravating and mitigating factor. Permits the imposition of the death penalty only where the jury or, where there is no jury, the court finds by a preponderance of the information that one or more of the aggravating factors exists and that none of the mitigating factors exists. Enumerates the mitigating and aggravating factors. (Amends 18 U.S.C. 844)
United States · United States Congress · 29 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 · 28 January 1976
Expands the boundaries of the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. Repeals provisions suspending the Secretary of the Interior's authority to acquire property within the National Lakeshore by condemnation when appropriate zoning agencies have in effect approved valid zoning ordinances applicable to such property. Revises provisions regarding retention of the right of use and occupancy by owners of improved property after such property has been acquired by the Secretary. Increases the membership of the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore Advisory Commission. Authorizes the appropriation of sums for acquisition of lands and interests in land and for development. Requires the Secretary to complete by the end of 1977 a final master plan detailing the development of the lakeshore. Details guidelines regarding rights-of-way and easements added by this Act to the lakeshore and regarding the acquisition, improvement, and use of specified lands and easements not within the expanded boundaries.
United States · United States Congress · 28 January 1976
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the Federal Communications Commission and other agencies shall be encouraged to exercise their full legal authority to insure that the quality and quantity of over-the-air broadcasting service which is now available to the public shall not be reduced or impaired by the operations of pay television. Calls for regulation of pay television in a manner consistent with the establishment and maintenance of over-the-air television broadcast services.
United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1976
Establishes an 11 member Commission on the Humane Treatment of Animals to study the treatment of animals. Requires that the membership include zoologists, veterinarians, and representatives from humane societies. Requires the Commission to determine if animals are caused needless pain or suffering as a result of their treatment: (1) on farms; (2) in zoos; (3) in laboratory experimentation; and (4) in other situations. Excludes the study or treatment of animals occurring in connection with the exercise of any religion. Directs the Commission to report its findings to the Congress and the President within two years after its last member is appointed. Terminates the Commission 60 days after it submits its final report. Authorizes appropriaions of $750,000 per year to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 22 January 1976
Title I: Foreign Boycotts - Foreign Boycotts Act - Makes it the policy of the United States to oppose, under the provisions of the Export Administration Act, restrictive trade practices or boycotts imposed by foreign countries against any domestic concern of the United States. Provides for the promulgation of rules by the Secretary of Commerce to require that any domestic concern which receives a request for the furnishing of information on the signing of agreements which have the effect of furthering or supporting restrictive trade practices or boycotts by foreign countries to transmit to the Secretary a report stating specified information. Authorizes the Secretary to impose a civil penalty of up to $10,000 for violations of the requirements of this Act. Title II: Disclosure - Domestic and Foreign Investment Improved Disclosure Act - Requires notification, under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, by any investor of a proposed acquisition of more than five percent of the equity securities of any United States companys, within ten days after such acquisition, to the issuer of the security, the exchange where it is traded, and the Securities and Exchange Commission. Sets forth requirements for the statement to be filed with the Commission including: (1) the background, identity, residence, and nationality of such owner and any other person on whose behalf the purchases are to be effected; (2) the source and amount of the funds or other consideration used in making the purchase; (3) the purpose of the acquisition; and (4) the number of shares which are beneficially owned. Grants the Commission authority to seek injunctive relief as it deems necessary and appropriate to secure compliance with this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 18 December 1975
Law Enforcement Officers' Bill of Rights - Provides, under the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets act, that specific grants under such Act shall not be made to any State, unit of general local government, or public agency, unless there is in effect a law enforcement officer's bill of rights. States that such bill of rights must substantially provide as a minimum the rights enumerated in this Act, including: (1) the right of a law enforcement officer to engage in political activity during off-duty hours or to refrain from such activity; and (2) observance of specified standards with respect to the investigation of a law enforcement officer who is under investigation for alleged malfeasance, misfeasance, or nonfeasance of official duty, with a view to possible diciplinary action, demotion, dismissal, or criminal charges. States that such standards shall include: (1) informing the law enforcement officer of the nature of the investigation, the names of any complainants, and the identity and authority of the person conducting such investigation; (2) full recordation of the investigation; and (3) allowing the law enforcement officer to have his counsel present at any interrogation in connection with the investigation. Grants a law enforcement officer the right to recover pecuniary and other damages from persons violating any of the rights established under the bill of rights. Establishes a law enforcement officers' grievance commission composed of representatives of the general public, law enforcement agencies, and other public agencies. Gives the commission the authority to receive, investigate, and determine grievances of any law enforcement officer, and to require testimony under oath and the production of documents. Defines terms used in this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 18 December 1975
Denies persons convicted of violent crimes from post conviction bail while awaiting sentencing or disposition of appeal unless a judicial officer finds by clear and convincing evidence that: (1) such person will not flee or pose a danger to himself or others; and (2) that such appeal raises a substantial question of law or fact which is likely to result in reversal or an order for a new trial. Places the burden of meeting such requirements on the convicted individual.
United States · United States Congress · 18 December 1975
Victims of Crime Act - Establishes the Violent Crimes Compensation Commission to make annual grants to qualifying States for 50 percent of the current annual cost, as determined by the Commission, of the program in that State to compensate the victims of violent crimes. Establishes criteria for the qualification of State programs for Federal funds. Places specified limitations on amounts which may be used to calculate the amount of Federal grants under this Act, excluding (1) awards by the State representing compensation for pain and suffering and property loss; (2) the amount by which any award exceeds $50,000; and (3) amounts representing lost earnings of more than $150 per week per individual.
United States · United States Congress · 18 December 1975
Drug Pushers Punishment Act - Title I: Increased Penalties - Requires, in the case of any person convicted of specified violations of Federal narcotics laws, that he be sentenced, under the Controlled Substances Act, to a term of imprisonment of not less than five years and not more than 25 years and fined not more than $50,000. Requires such sentences to include a special parole term of not less than three years. Provides that a person who commits such a violation after one or more prior felony convictions relating to narcotics or while released pending trial on, or final disposition of, such charges be sentenced to a term of imprisonment of not less than 10 years or for life and fined not more than $100,000. Excludes from such minimum imprisonment terms the cases of those whose primary purpose is to obtain narcotics for personal use because of addiction. Forbids the suspension of sentences provided for by this Act. Prohibits probation for individuals receiving such sentences. Declares that any person who attempts or conspires to commit any offense defined by the Controlled Substances Act shall be punished as prescribed for the commission of the offense which was the object of such attempt or conspiracy. Title II: Conditions of Release - Requires that those convicted of violations of the Controlled Substances Act be detained while awaiting sentence or after filing an appeal or petition for writ of certiorari unless a judicial officer finds that: (1) such person, if released, will not flee or pose any danger to himself or society; and (2) if such person filed an appeal or petition for a writ of certiorari, that a substantial question of law or fact is raised which is likely to result in a reversal or an order for a new trial. Title III: Forfeitures - States that all moneys used, or intended for use, in manufacturing, distributing, dispensing, or acquiring any controlled substance in violation of specified Federal drug abuse prevention and control laws are subject to forfeiture.
United States · United States Congress · 18 December 1975
Local and State Government Speedy Trail Act - Provides, under the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act, grants to States, and to units of local government with a population of over 250,000, to accelerate the disposition of criminal cases in their courts consistent with: (1) the time standards specified for Federal courts under the Speedy Trial Act; (2) the objectives of effective, fair, judicial law enforcement. Authorizes, upon application, the Law Enforcement Assistance Administration to make such grants for the design, study, testing, and implementation of programs and projects consistent with the purposes of this Act. Requires each application to include a description of: (1) the time limits, procedural techniques, innovations, systems, and other methods to be applied or used; and (2) the steps to be taken in developing reliable methods for gathering and monitoring information and statistics, in expediting the trial or other disposition of criminal cases. Allows the Administration to set the terms and conditions for the allocation of funds. Declares that a Federal grant may be in an amount up to 90 percent of the cost of the program or project. States that the non-Federal share of the cost may be provided by a private non-profit organization or appropriated by the State or local government units. Requires the allocation, for purposes of this Act, of an amount equal to not less than 10 percent of the grants for law enforcement purposes under the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act.
United States · United States Congress · 18 December 1975
Prohibits the sale of "Saturday Night Special" handguns in the United States as defined in this Act. Makes it unlawful for a licensed manufacturer or licensed importer to manufacture, assemble, or import, for the purpose of sale in the United States, any handgun, knowing or having reasonable cause to believe the basic structural components thereof are made: (1) of any material having a melting point (liquidus) of less than 1000 degrees Fahrenheit, or (2) of any material having an ultimate tensile strength of less than 55,000 pounds per square inch, or (3) of any powered metal having a density of less than 7.5 grams per cubic centimeter.
United States · United States Congress · 18 December 1975
Provides that whoever uses a firearm to commit a Federal felony, or carries a firearm unlawfully during the commission of a Federal felony, shall, in addition to the punishment provided for the commission of such felony, be sentenced to a term of imprisonment for not less than one year nor more than ten years. Provides that, in the case of a second or subsequent conviction under this Act, such person shall be sentenced to a term of imprisonment for not less than twenty-five years and shall not receive a suspended or probationary sentence, nor a sentence to run concurrently with any term of imprisonment, imposed for the conviction of such felony.
United States · United States Congress · 18 December 1975
Denies the business tax deduction under the Internal Revenue Code for amounts paid or incurred for lobbying (including appearances before, and the sending of statements or communications) before Congress or other legislative bodies.
United States · United States Congress · 16 December 1975
Requires that any rule or regulation proposed by any officer or agency of the executive branch of the Federal Government to implement a law or a program pursuant to a law must be submitted to both Houses of Congress for review. States that such rule or regulation shall become effective 60 legislative days after submission if Congress neither disapproves it by resolution or passes a concurrent resolution specifically approving such rule or regulation. Incorporates the provisions of this Act into the rules of the two Houses of Congress. Establishes procedural rules with respect to the consideration of a resolution disapproving the proposed rule or regulation.
United States · United States Congress · 15 December 1975
Regulatory Agency Abolition Act - Abolishes each Federal regulatory agency three years after enactment of this Act unless prior to such date the President and Congress study the effectiveness of such agencies and Congress, thereafter, adopts a resolution disapproving such abolition. Provides that each regulatory agency established after the date of enactment of this Act shall be abolished three years from the date on which it was first approved unless the President and Congress take the steps outlined above. Directs the President to submit to Congress a plan for the orderly transfer of duties essential to the public health, safety or welfare from an abolished agency to the President or to a successor agency. Provides that all orders, rules, certificates, judicial proceedings and licenses made effective by agencies abolished by this Act shall continue in effect until repealed or superceded by the President.
United States · United States Congress · 15 December 1975
Truth in Budgeting Act - Provides for full congressional review of all Federal programs every 2 years by the appropriate standing committees of the House and Senate. Provides that each comprehensive review conducted by a committee with respect to a Federal program under this Act shall include a detailed consideration of the past experience under the program and a projection of the expected future experience of the program, a consideration of alternate ways of carrying out the activities involved and alternative funding levels for such activities, an evaluation of each such alternative in terms of its probable costs and benefits, a comparison of each such alternative with other programs and activities in the same or related fields, and an evaluation of the overall success or failure of the program. Details the method to be used to review such programs by the standing committee. Provides that no funds in excess of the appropriations for the previous year may be authorized for a program that has not been subject to review during the calendar year.
United States · United States Congress · 2 December 1975
Revises the Congressional Budget Act to require that there be a surplus in the Congressional budget for the United States Government for any fiscal year in which the projected national unemployment rate is less than 4 1/2 percent. Requires that all concurrent resolutions on the budget reflect such revision.
United States · United States Congress · 1 December 1975
Provides for the recognition of representatives of the Polish Legion of American Veterans as claims agents for claims arising under laws administered by the Veterans' Administration. (Amends 38 U.S.C. 3402(a)(1))
United States · United States Congress · 20 November 1975
National Consumer Cooperative Bank Act - Title I: National Consumer Cooperative Bank - Sets for the findings of Congress that there is a need for the establishment of a National Consumer Cooperative Bank and a Cooperative Bank and Assistance Administration which will make available necessary financial and technical assistance to cooperative self-help endeavors as a means of strengthening the Nation's economy. Establishes the National Consumer Cooperative Bank. States that the Bank shall (1) encourage the development of new and existing cooperative eligible for its assistance by providing specialized credit and technical assistance; (2) minimum broad-based control of the Bank by its voting stockholders; (3) encourage broad-based ownership control and active participation by members in eligible cooperatives; (4) assure that the net savings from its operations and the operations of borrowers from the Bank are made available or accounted for to the stockholders or members of the cooperative organization ; and (5) assist in improving the quality and availability of goods and services to consumers. Authorizes the creation of no less than four nor more than twelve corporate regional banks. States that the Bank shall have the power to make and service loans, commitments for credit, guarantees, furnish financially related services, technical assistance, and issue obligations. Enumerates additional powers necessary to carry out its powers and duties under this Act. Authorizes appropriations of $250,000,000 per year for the United States to purchase class A preferred stock of the Bank. Requires the Bank to hold an annual meeting of stockholders. Permits the Bank to obtain funds through the public or private sale of its bonds, debentures, notes, and other evidences of indebtedness. Authorizes the Bank to make loans to eligible organizations which shall be repayable in not more than forty years. States that the objective of the Bank shall be to provide the type of credit needed by eligible borrowers, at the lowest reasonable cost on a sound business basis, taking into account the cost of money to the Bank. Defines "eligible cooperatives" for purposes of assistance under this title as an organization chartered or operated on a cooperative, not for profit basis for producing or furnishing goods, services, facilities, or financing primarily for the benefit of its members or voting stockholders who are ultimate consumers, if it meets specified criteria, or any other institution chartered or operated in such a way as to enhance competitive market forces or to reduce the price spread between producers and the ultimate consumers of products or services. Title II: Self-Help Development Fund - Establishes in the Treasury a Consumer Cooperative Self-Help Development Fund. Authorizes appropriations of $250,000,000 to be deposited in the Fund. Permits the Cooperative Bank and Assistance Administration to make a capital investment advance out of the Fund to any eligible cooperative if the Administration determines that the applicants' initial or supplemental capital requirements exceed its ability to obtain a Title I loan from the Bank or other sources, and the membership of the applicant consists substantially of low-income persons. Title III: Cooperative Technical Assistance - Directs the Cooperative Bank and Assistance Administration to make available information and services concerning the organization or reorganization of cooperatives to best achieve the objectives of this Act and to best provide the means through which various types of goods, services, and facilities can be made available to members and patrons. States that such assistance may include investigations, surveys, and director and management training and assistance. Authorizes appropriations to the Administration of sums necessary for the administration of this title. Title IV: The Cooperative Bank and Assistance Administration and General Provisions - Establishes the Cooperative Bank and Assistance Administration. Directs the Administration to assure that the objectives of this Act are carried out. States that until the stock of the Bank held by the United States has been fully retired the Bank shall be exempt from any form of taxation. Requires the Administration and the Board to report annually to the appropriate committees of Congress on the activities of the Administration and on the Bank's capital, operations, financial condition, the self-help development fund, and to make recommendations for legislation to improve its services. Authorizes appropriations of sums necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act, in addition to appropriations specifically authorized.
United States · United States Congress · 20 November 1975
Provides for the recognition of representatives of the Polish Legion of American Veterans as claims agents for claims arising under laws administered by the Veterans' Administration. (Amends 38 U.S.C. 3402(a)(1))
United States · United States Congress · 14 November 1975
Confers honorary United States citizenship upon Christopher Columbus.
United States · United States Congress · 12 November 1975
Requires, under the Legislative Reorganization Act of 1970, that committee reports on proposed legislation in either House of Congress must contain statements of the reporting and recordkeeping requirements which will be imposed on private business as a result of the enactment of such proposed legislation.
United States · United States Congress · 11 November 1975
Provides that the rates of pay for Members of Congress and the Vice President shall be the rates in effect on September 30, 1975, until such time as they are fixed otherwise by law. Removes from the responsibilities of the Commission on Executive Legislative and Judicial Salaries a review of the rates of pay of Senators, Members of the House of Representatives and the Resident Commissioner from Puerto Rico.
United States · United States Congress · 6 November 1975
Young Adult Conservation Corps Act - Declares it to be a finding of Congress that unemployment levels are excessively high among young adults, and that there are large inventories of conservation work and other work of a public nature on public lands, including the national park and forest systems, which require large amounts of labor and relatively small capital investments. States that it is the purpose of this Act to complement the Youth Conservation Corps Act and to provide employment to young adults. Declares the Secretaries of Agriculture and Interior to jointly extend the Youth Conservation Corps to make possible the year-round employment of young adults. States that individuals employed as Corps members under this Act shall be between the ages of 19 and 24; shall meet applicable physical standards; shall be given preference for employment if they reside in counties in which the unemployment rate was equal to or in excess of six percent for three consecutive months; and may be employed for a total of not more than 12 months. Sets forth criteria by which the Secretaries shall be guided in determining the location of projects and the type of work to be done. States that priority should be given to counties having a high rate of unemployment and that highly labor intensive projects should be sought. States that the rate of pay for Corps members should be set at the current Federal minimum wage. Extends the provisions of this Act to cover employment of young adults in State conservation programs in accordance with the provisions of the Youth Conservation Corps Act which make such an extension. Requires the Secretaries to prepare, within eight months of the enactment of this Act, a plan for the execution of the provisions of this Act. Authorizes the appropriation of funds for preparing the plan and for preparing the sites, facilities, and equipment selected in this plan. Authorizes the appropriation of funds as specified for the four fiscal years during which young adults are employed under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 4 November 1975
Revises the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act to provide that persons employed in public service jobs shall not be paid at an annual rate exceeding $15,000 (presently $10,000).
United States · United States Congress · 4 November 1975
Designates "The Stars and Stripes Forever", composed by John Philip Sousa, as the national march of the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 28 October 1975
National Climate Program Act - States that the purpose of this Act is to help the Nation respond more effectively to climate-induced problems by enabling its Government to be aware of and anticipate climate fluctuations and their domestic and international impacts, particularly in the areas of management and planning of domestic and international food supplies, and land, natural resource, and energy allocation and utilization. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to coordinate the establishment and operation of a climate program to collect, analyze and disseminate data concerning past, present and future climatic states, their fluctuations, and the influence of man's activities on the process of climatic dynamics. States that the program shall include, but not be limited to: (1) development of a climate impact warning system to provide both timely warnings and assessments of the risks of future climate impacts; (2) improvement of current monthly and seasonal temperature and precipitation predictions, particularly with respect to their impact on food production, availability of water resources, and energy consumption; and (3) development of mathematical-computer systems for the modeling, simulation, and prediction of climate and man's effects on climate. Directs the Secretary to consult and coordinate with climatic experts and with Federal departments and agencies. Requires the Secretary to establish advisory committees in the field of climatology and related fields. Specifies that the Secretary must prepare and submit an annual report for the President and the Congress on the administration of this Act, including, but not limited to: (1) a summary of the achievements of the climate program during the previous year; (2) a list of publications produced as a result of research sponsored under this Act; and (3) a summary of the outstanding problems encountered in the administration of this Act during the year. Authorizes to be appropriated to the participating Federal departments and agencies such sums to carry out the provisions of this Act as may be necessary, not to exceed $10,000,000 for the fiscal period beginning July 1, 1976, and ending September 30, 1976, not to exceed $42,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, not to exceed $48,000,000 for fiscal year 1978, and not to exceed $56,000,000 for fiscal year 1979.
United States · United States Congress · 23 October 1975
Condemns the resolution adopted by the Third Committee of the United Nations General Assembly which equates Zionism with racism, and urges the U.N. General Assembly to disapprove such resolution.
United States · United States Congress · 20 October 1975
National Science and Technology Policy and Organization Act - Title I: National Science Policy - Declares that the United States shall adhere to a national policy for science and technology which includes the following principles: (1) the continuing development and implementation of a national strategy for determining and achieving the appropriate scope, level, direction, and extent of scientific and technological efforts based upon a continuous appraisal of the role of science and technology in achieving goals and formulating policies of the United States; (2) the enlistment of science and technology to foster a healthy economy in which the directions of growth and innovation are compatible with the prudent and frugal use of resources and with the preservation of a benign environment; and (3) the development and maintenance of a solid base for science and technology in the United States. States the declaration of Congress that the Federal Government should maintain central policy-planning elements in the executive branch in mobilizing resources for essential science and technology programs, in securing appropriate funding for those programs, and to review systematically Federal science policy and programs and to recommend legislative amendments when needed. States that, in order to expedite and facilitate the implementation of the policy enunciated in this Act, the following coordinate procedures are of paramount importance: (1) Federal procurement policy should encourage the use of science and technology to foster frugal use of materials, energy, and appropriated funds; to assure quality environment; and to enhance product performance; (2) explicit criteria, including cost-effectiveness principles where feasible, should be developed to identify the kinds of science and technology programs that are appropriate for Federal funding support and to determine the extent of such support; (3) Federal promotion of science and technology should maximize quality of research, stability of scientific and technological institutions, and, for urgent tasks, timeliness of results; and (4) antitrust regulation should not preclude cooperation among competing firms in industrial research and development unless such cooperation is anticompetitive. Title II: Office of Science and Technology Policy - Presidential Science and Technology Advisory Organization Act - Establishes in the Executive Office of the President the Office of Science and Technology Policy. Provides for the appointment of a Director, four Assistant Directors, and other personnel. Specifies the functions of the Office, including to: (1) advise the President of scientific and technological considerations involved in areas of national concern; (2) evaluate the scale, quality, and effectiveness of the Federal effort in science and technology and advise on appropriate actions; (3) advise the President on scientific and technological considerations with regard to Federal budgets; and (4) assist the President in providing general leadership and coordination of the research and development programs of the Federal Government. Title III: The Federal Science and Technology Survey Committee - Establishes within the Executive Office of the President, and in association with the Office of Science and Technology Policy, a Federal Science and Technology Survey Committee. States that the Committee shall consist of from five to twelve members appointed by the President. Specifies the qualifications of the members of the Committee. States that the functions of the Committee shall be to survey, examine, and analyze the total context of the Federal science and technology effort including missions, goals, personnel, funding, organization, facilities, and activities in general. Stipulates that the life of the Committee shall be 24 months from the date of its first organizational meeting. Title IV: Miscellaneous - Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 20 October 1975
Authorizes and directs the President, commencing October 1, 1975, and for a period of 270 days thereafter, to promulgate a regulation providing a maximum price for domestically produced crude oil which shall not be in excess of $11.50 per barrel. Withdraws as of October 1, 1975, any tax or fee on the importation of, and any rate or duty on, petroleum or any product derived therefrom which was imposed by the President in the interest of national security under the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 between January 1, 1975 and the date of enactment of this Act. Provides for the refund of any tax, fee, or duty collected on or after October 1, 1975 on the importation of petroleum or any product derived therefrom. Requires that importers pass such refunds to their ultimate customers or purchasers on a dollar for dollar basis.
United States · United States Congress · 9 October 1975
Directs the Rail Services Planning Office, under the Regional Rail Reorganization Act, to require the Consolidated Rail Corporation and any railroad subsidized under that Act to submit to the Office information sufficient to permit an accurate determination by the Office of the revenues, costs and operations of local rail lines as economic units. Increases from $5,000,000 to $10,000,000 the appropriations authorized to the Interstate Commerce Commission for the use of the Rail Services Planning Office. Provides for the operation of rail service on light density lines not scheduled to be included in the final system plan established pursuant to the Regional Rail Reorganization Act. Stipulates that such light density lines as are profitable will be operated by the Consolidated Rail Corporation or a profitable railroad in the area. Authorizes the appropriation of up to $38,000,000 to subsidize the operation of such lines. Directs the Comptroller General of the United States to conduct an audit to determine the soundness of the accounting procedures used by the Corporation in assessing the profitability of a light density line. Provides for the inclusion of additional local rail service lines within the final system plan. Sets forth a new schedule of Federal-State shares of the rail service continuation subsidy. States that the Federal share shall be 100 percent for the first two years of this Act and shall be reduced by ten percent each year thereafter until the Federal and State shares shall each be 50 percent. Revises the formula by which rail service continuation funds are allocated to the States to provide for distribution to the States on the basis of the discontinued rail mileage in each State. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to assist the States in developing and implementing the State plan for rail rehabilitation which is a prerequisite to the granting of rail service continuation subsidies. Provides for the granting of rail service continuation subsidies to rail freight services on those additional light density lines included in the final system plan under this Act. Deletes the provision of the Regional Rail Reorganization Act which limits any rail service continuation subsidy to two years. Revises the authorization of appropriations for the rail service continuation subsidies. Makes it possible for States to receive both rail service continuation subsidies and loans to purchase rail properties of a railroad which were originally scheduled for abandonment. Directs the Rail Services Planning Office to conduct a study of each railroad line which is not designated to be included in the final system plan and which is: (1) receiving rail service continuation subsidies; or (2) potentially eligible for such subsidies; or (3) a light density line operated by the Corporation or a profitable railroad. States that such study shall be conducted to determine the overall economic viability of such line including the prospects for such line becoming more economically viable at a reasonable cost and within a reasonable period of time. Directs the Office to designate those lines which such study has determined to be economically viable for transfer to the Corporation or to a profitable railroad operating in the region.
United States · United States Congress · 8 October 1975
Food Industry Antitrust Reports Act - Directs the Federal Trade Commission, the Department of Justice, and the Department of Agriculture to submit to the appropriate House and Senate committees a report on actions with respect to the enforcement of the antitrust laws in the various sectors of the food industry. Requires that such report be made not later than six months after the date of enactment of this Act, and yearly thereafter. Provides that no later than five years after the enactment of this Act, the Commission shall submit to the Congress a comprehensive report on the market structure and state of competition in the food industries. Requires the Commission and the Department of Justice to provide to the Congress an analysis of the adequacy of available data on which any study is based. Authorizes the appropriation to the Commission of $1,000,000 for each of the next five fiscal years.
United States · United States Congress · 6 October 1975
Defense Production Act Amendments - Provides that, upon finding that conditions exist which may pose a direct threat to the national defense or its preparedness programs, the President may consult with representatives of industry, business, financing, agriculture, labor, and other interests in order to provide for the making by such persons, with the approval of the President, of voluntary agreements to help provide for the defense of the United States through the development of preparedness programs and the expansion of productive capacity and supply beyond levels needed to meet essential civilian demand in the United States. Provides for the notice of and the right of interested persons to petition for repeal with respect to the promulgation of rules to implement such voluntary agreement. States that a voluntary agreement may not become effective unless and until: (1) the individual who is to administer the agreement approves it and certifies, in writing, that the agreement is necessary to carry out the purposes for which it was authorized and (2) the Attorney General (after consultation with the Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission) finds, in writing, that such purpose may not reasonably be achieved through a voluntary agreement having less anticompetitive effects or without any voluntary agreement. Directs the Attorney General and the Federal Trade Commission to each make surveys for the purpose of determining any factors which may tend to eliminate competition, create or strengthen monopolies, injure small business, or otherwise promote undue concentration of economic power in the course of the administration of this Act. Requires specific rules for incorporating standards and procedures by which international voluntary agreements may be developed. Extends and makes appropriations for specified provisions of the Defense Production Act of 1950.
United States · United States Congress · 17 September 1975
Truth in Budgeting Act - Provides for full congressional review of all Federal programs every 2 years by the appropriate standing committees of the House and Senate. Provides that each comprehensive review conducted by a committee with respect to a Federal program under this Act shall include a detailed consideration of the past experience under the program and a projection of the expected future experience of the program, a consideration of alternate ways of carrying out the activities involved and alternative funding levels for such activities, an evaluation of each such alternative in terms of its probable costs and benefits, a comparison of each such alternative with other programs and activities in the same or related fields, and an evaluation of the overall success or failure of the program. Details the method to be used to review such programs by the standing committee. Provides that no funds in excess of the appropriations for the previous year may be authorized for a program that has not been subject to review during the calendar year.
United States · United States Congress · 11 September 1975
Provides under the Social Security Act that where benefits are claimed under the Aid to Families with Dependent Children (title XIV), the Medicaid program (title XIX) other Social Services programs, and Federal-State public assistance programs, the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare shall make a determination as to the eligibility of the claimant within 90 days of submission of the claim (120 days where the Secretary requires more information from the appropriate State and such information is not furnished within the first 60 days after submission of the claim). Provides that payments made to States for medical assistance to aged, blind, or disablied individuals later determined by the Secretary to be ineligible for such payments shall not be deemed an overpayment to such state.
United States · United States Congress · 11 September 1975
Increases from 80 to 90 percent the portion of specified projects which may be covered by Federal grants under the Urban Mass Transportation Act.
United States · United States Congress · 10 September 1975
Civilian Conservation Corps Act - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of the Interior to establish a Civilian Conservation Corps for the purpose of providing employment for unemployed persons through useful public projects in connection with the conservation, improvement and utilization of the natural resources of lands and waters under the ownership or control of the United States or its agencies. Sets forth eligibility requirements to be met by persons employed under this Act as Corps members. Directs that preference for employment shall be given to persons residing in areas having an unemployment rate of 6.5 percent or greater for three consecutive months. Limits employment of Corps members under this Act to a period of 24 months total employment. Sets forth the duties of the Secretaries under this Act. Authorizes the Secretaries to make grants to the States to assist them in employing unemployed individuals to carry out projects under this Act. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as are necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 10 September 1975
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. Urges the United Nations to seek the withdrawal of all Russian occupiers from the Republics of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. Calls upon the Secretary of State to take action, through such channels as the United States Information Agency, to bring the matter of the Baltic States to the attention of all nations. Expresses the sense of Congress that the right to self-determination should be returned to the people of the Baltic nations.
United States · United States Congress · 10 September 1975
Expresses the sense of Congress that it remains the policy of the United States not to recognize in any way the annexation of the Baltic nations (Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania) by the Soviet Union, the President's signature on the Final Act of the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe notwithstanding.
United States · United States Congress · 8 September 1975
Authorizes the President to issue a proclamation designating Sunday, September 14, 1975, as "National Saint Elizabeth Seton Day" and calling upon the people of the United States to observe that day with appropriate ceremonies.
United States · United States Congress · 5 September 1975
National Commission on Regulatory Reform Act - Establishes the National Commission on Regulatory Reform. Directs the Commission to make a full and complete study of such regulatory activities of the independent regulatory agencies of the Federal Government as the Commission determines to be primarily economic in nature and to have a significant effect on the segments of the economy involving transportation, communication, the development and distribution of energy resources, or financial institutions. States that such study shall be undertaken to determine: (1) whether such regulatory activities have limited competition within such segments of the economy, and if they have, what the economic consequences have been, (2) whether such regulatory activities have, in other way, contributed to current economic difficulties, in particular inflation; and (3) whether changes need to be made with regard to such independent Federal establishments and their regulatory activites. Requires that such study shall include, with regard to each independent Federal establishment whose regulatory activities are included in such study: (1) an analysis of the purposes for which it was created, its structure and jurisdiction, the statutory framework governing its operation and activities, and the procedures and policies it has adopted; (2) an assessment of its effectiveness in carrying out its purposes; (3) an analysis of the costs and benefits of its various programs and policies, with particular reference to any adverse economic impact; and (4) an examination of the relationship between its regulatory activities and those of State and local regulatory agencies. Sets forth the membership, powers, and authority of the Commission. Directs the Commission to submit to the President and Congress within one year a report containing: (1) a statement of the status of the study being conducted pursuant to this Act; (2) a detailed statement of any findings made or conclusions reached by the Commission; and (3) any recommendations for legislation or administrative action, or both, deemed appropriate by the Commission.
United States · United States Congress · 5 September 1975
Revises the Fisherman's Protective Act by directing the Secretary of Commerce, before the close of the ninety-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 · 3 September 1975
Truth in Budgeting Act - Provides for full congressional review of all Federal programs every 2 years by the appropriate standing committees of the House and Senate. Provides that each comprehensive review conducted by a committee with respect to a Federal program under this Act shall include a detailed consideration of the past experience under the program and a projection of the expected future experience of the program, a consideration of alternate ways of carrying out the activities involved and alternative funding levels for such activities, and evaluation of each such alternative in terms of its probable costs and benefits, a comparison of each such alternative with other programs and activities in the same or related fields, and an evaluation of the overall success or failure of the program. Details the method to be used to review such programs by the standing committee. Provides that no funds in excess of the appropriations for the previous year may be authorized for a program that has not been subject to review during that calendar year.
United States · United States Congress · 3 September 1975
Expresses the House of Representatives strong disapproval of efforts to expel Israel from the United Nations. States that if Israel is expelled the United States should reassess its relationship with the United Nations General Assembly. Provides that such reassessment shall include possible withdrawal from that body.
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1975
Federal Records Management Act - Defines terms used in this Act and declares that the purpose of this Act is to require the establishment of standards and procedures to assure efficient and effective records management in the Federal Government. States that such standards and procedures shall seek to effectuate specified goals, including: (1) accurate and complete documentation of the policies and transactions of the Federal Government; (2) control of the quantity and quality of records produced by the Federal Government; and (3) simplification of the processes through which records are created, stored, retrieved, and used. Directs that the Administrator of General Services shall provide guidance and assistance to Federal agencies with respect to records creation, records maintenance and use, and records disposition. Requires the Administrator to conduct inspections or paperwork studies of the records, records practices, and records management programs of every Federal agency. Authorizes and directs the Administrator to charge any Federal agency for the cost of any paperwork study. Directs the Administrator to transmit yearly reports to Congress. Enumerates the types of information that such report shall contain. Establishes the Records Review Board as an independent organization in the executive branch, such Board to consist of five members. Sets the rates of pay for Board members. Allows the Board to appoint and fix the pay of such personnel as it deems necessary to carry out its functions under this Act. Empowers any executive agency to appeal to the Board any order issued by the Administrator pursuant to this Act. Requires the head of each Federal agency to make and preserve records containing adequate and proper documentation of the organization, functions, policies, decisions, procedures, and essential transactions of such Agency. Grants the Administrator immediate custody and control of the National Archives Building and its contents. Directs the Administrator to establish standards for the selective retention of records of continuing value. Authorizes the Administrator to establish and operate records centers for specified purposes and centralized microfilming services for Federal agencies. States that the head of each Federal agency shall establish safeguards against the removal or loss of records he determines to be necessary and required by the rules of the Administrator. Authorizes the Administrator to prescribe such rules as he considers essential to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1975
Requires that the Commodity Credit Corporation be the sole export seller of raw wheat, corn, grain sorghum, barley, oats, rye, and soybeans. Authorizes the Corporation to negotiate sales for export of such commodities, to accept purchase bids from foreign purchasers, to offer selling bids in the world market, and establish reserves to meet future export sales. Permits the Corporation to acquire commodities on the domestic market to meet the objectives of this Act, at a specified price. States that records containing all terms and conditions of each commodity export sale should be made available by the Corporation for public inspection. Provides that sales for export may be at a higher price, but not a lower price, than the domestic purchase price. Stipulates that if the sale price exceeds the price paid by the Corporation for such commodity by 25 percent, 50 percent of the excess shall be repaid by the Corporation to the producer of the commodity and the remaining 50 percent shall be used for energy research, development, and demonstration.
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1975
Establishes, under the Higher Education Act, a National Student Financial Assistance Data Bank in the office of Education to assist individuals enrolled in institutions of higher education by identifying the public and private sources of financial assistance available for students at such institutions.