United States · United States Congress · 16 January 1981
Title I: Amendments to the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act - Amends the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act to make the Secretary of Agriculture responsible for the administration of the North Fork of the American River, California. Designates specified segments of the following rivers for potential addition to the national wild and scenic rivers system: (1) Myakka, Florida; (2) Saint Lucie, Florida; (3) Salmon, Connecticut; (4) Farmington, Connecticut; (5) Parker, Massachusetts; (6) Caney Fork, Tennessee; (7) Dan, North Carolina and Virginia; (8) Satilla River, Georgia; (9) Cimarron, Kansas; (10) Hoh, Washington; (11) Dosewallips, Washington; (12) Quillayute, Washington; (13) Wood, Rhode Island; (14) Black, Wisconsin; and (15) Humptulips, Washington. Requires the study of the Farmington River, Connecticut, to include an analysis of whether low-head hydroelectric generating facilities can be installed on such river at existing dams without having a direct and adverse effect upon the fish, wildlife, recreational, and aesthetic values of the river. Requires that the study of the Salmon River and the Farmington River in Connecticut and the Hoh River, the Humptulips River, and the Quillayute River in Washington include an analysis of the various means of maintaining and enhancing the fisheries resources of such rivers. Declares that during the study of the Myakka River, Florida, no permits or licenses currently approved for mining and related activities shall be affected. Designates specified segments of the following rivers as components of the national wild and scenic rivers system: (1) the North Umpqua and the Illinois Rivers both in Oregon; and (2) the Dosewallips River in Washington. Requires the agency charged with the administration of each designated component of the national wild and scenic rivers system to establish detailed boundaries therefor and determine which class outlined in such Act best fits the river or its various segments, within one year from the date of designation of such component (formerly within one year from the date of such Act). Eliminates the requirement that such an agency prepare a plan for the necessary developments in connection with the administration of such a river. Requires an agency charged with the administration of each such component, within specified time periods, to prepare a comprehensive protection and management plan to guide the agency's administration in accordance with the classification made under such Act. Requires that such plan: (1) include the identification of, and plans for implementation of, user carrying capacities for all types of public use activities within the boundaries of the river; and (2) be prepared after consultation with State and local governments and the interested public. Limits authority to enter into contractual agreements and to make payments under this Act pursuant to such contractual agreements. Authorizes appropriations to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 9 January 1981
Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to allow preference visas to be given to an alien who: (1) requests such treatment; (2) was born after 1950 in Korea, Vietnam, Laos, or Thailand; (3) was fathered by an American serviceman; and (4) provides a guarantee of financial support. Stipulates that such guarantee must: (1) be signed by a citizen or lawful permanent resident who is at least 21 years old; and (2) provide that such signing sponsor will provide necessary financial support for five years. Allows the Attorney General to enforce such guarantee against the sponsor in a civil suit unless such sponsor dies or is adjudicated bankrupt.
United States · United States Congress · 6 January 1981
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide that the standard mileage rate used in computing the charitable deduction for expenses incurred in the operation of a motor vehicle shall be the same as the standard mileage rate for the business related deduction.
United States · United States Congress · 5 January 1981
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to permit taxpayers who do not itemize income tax deductions to claim a deduction from gross income for charitable contributions.
United States · United States Congress · 5 January 1981
Comprehensive Oil Pollution Liability and Compensation Act - Title I: Oil Pollution Liability and Compensation - Provides that, in addition to the processing and settlement of claims, the Comprehensive Oil Pollution Liability Trust Fund (Fund), established in title II of this Act, is immediately available to pay specified removal costs arising out of an oil pollution incident. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to issue regulations designating the person or persons who may obligate available money in the Fund for such purposes. Permits claims for damages for economic loss, incurred within a specified time, to be asserted for: (1) removal costs; (2) injury to or destruction of property or natural resources; and (3) loss of profits or impairment of earning capacity due to such injury or destruction. Specifies the potential claimants who have standing to assert claims involving each such type of damage. Imposes joint, several, and strict liability on the owners and operators of each pollution source. Specifies liability limits, except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct, for ships and other vessels. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to establish limits on the liability of classes of facilities used for transporting, producing, processing, storing, or transferring oil. Requires owners or operators of vessels over 300 tons (including foreign vessels) and owners or operators of offshore facilities to establish and maintain evidence of financial responsibility in an amount sufficient to satisfy applicable liability limits. Permits any owner or operator of more than one vessel or offshore facility to establish financial responsibility only to meet the maximum liability of the largest of such vessels or facilities, as the case may be. Provides for the enforcement of such financial responsibility requirements. States, in the case of an owner who is the holder of a leasehold interest or permit for the exploration of oil offshore, that evidence of financial responsibility established for the leasehold shall cover such owner for all facilities located on the leasehold. Provides that where an offshore facility is owned or operated by more than one person, evidence of financial responsibility may be established by any one of the owners or operators or in consolidated form. Requires owners or operators of each tank motor vehicle operated on highways and transporting oil in bulk, with a water capacity of more than 3,500 gallons, to establish and maintain evidence of specified financial responsibility. Limits the total liability of any guarantor, under this title, to the aggregate amount which such guarantor has provided as evidence of financial responsibility (except in cases of bad faith by a guarantor in settling a claim). Specifies procedures whereby the Secretary shall designate and advertise pollution sources. Directs the Secretary to advertise claims to be presented initially to the owner or operator, or to such person's guarantor, in instances in which: (1) the owner and operator of a vessel or facility designated by the Secretary deny such vessel's or facility's involvement; (2) the source of the discharge is a public vessel; or (3) the Secretary is unable to designate the pollution source. Permits claimants either to present a claim to the Fund or to bring an action in an appropriate United States court if liability is denied or the claim is not settled within a specified period. Sets forth procedures for the disposition and appeal of claims submitted to the Fund. Requires both the plaintiff and the defendant in a court action brought against an owner, operator, or guarantor to forward copies of all pleadings to the Fund. Permits the Fund to intervene in such actions. Subrogates any person or Government entity, including the Fund, paying compensation, to all the claimant's claims and rights under this Act. Specifies procedures for and the measure of recovery in actions brought by the fund against owners, operators or guarantors of alleged pollution sources. Grants U.S. district courts exclusive original jurisdiction over all controversies arising under this title, without regard to the citizenship of the parties or the amount in controversy. Declares that the rights and remedies under this Act shall be exclusive with respect to economic loss caused by oil pollution (but does not preclude State imposition of taxes or fees to finance the purchase and prepositioning of oil pollution cleanup and removal equipment). Sets penalties for persons failing to comply with specified provisions in this Act. Authorizes appropriations for this title. Directs the Secretary to submit an annual report to Congress on the administration of this title. Title II: Fund and Tax - Establishes the Fund in the Treasury of the United States. Transfers to the Fund amounts determined by the Secretary of the Treasury to be equivalent to: (1) the amounts received in the Treasury under the petroleum excise tax; (2) the amounts recovered or collected on behalf of such Fund under title I of this Act; and (3) any penalties imposed under title I of this Act or under oil and hazardous substances liability provisions of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act insofar as these relate to petroleum oils. Makes amounts in the Fund available only to pay claims for compensable damages recognizable under title I of this Act (including costs incurred by the United States by reason of such claims). Defines "compensable damages" for purposes of the Act. Restricts interest payable out of the Fund. Provides for certain interfund loans, under specified conditions. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to consult with the Secretary of Transportation, in the case of the Fund, and with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, in the case of the Hazardous Substance Trust Fund, concerning such interfund loans. Limits payment of claims by the Fund by requiring a minimum balance of at least $30,000,000 in the Fund. States that claims are to be paid in the order in which they were finally determined. Limits U.S. liability for payment of claims under this Act to the amounts in the Funds established under this title. Prohibits the funds from borrowing any money from the general fund of the Treasury, other than a first year authorization of appropriations as a repayable advance. Sets forth administrative provisions for the Fund, including methods of transfer, management, and investment. Coordinates this title with other provisions in this Act. Provides that nothing in this Act other than this title shall authorize: (1) the establishment of any fund; (2) the payment out of any fund created by this title; (3) the levy or collection of any fee; or (4) the imposition of any requirement with respect to the procedure applicable to rules and regulations prescribed under this title. Provides that, to the extent not inconsistent with this title, any reference in title I of this Act to a fund shall be deemed to refer to the Fund. Provides that, if the balance in any fund is to be transferred to the Fund, then any claim arising before October 1, 1981, which would have been payable out of the other fund shall be payable out of the Fund. Provides that if the Secretary of the Treasury determines that there is: (1) a Trans-Alaska Pipeline (TAP) Liability Fund surplus, then the amount of such surplus shall be treated as an advance payment of the petroleum excise tax on crude oil first transported through the TAP after the date of such determination; or (2) a TAP fund deficit, then the petroleum excise tax on such crude oil shall be increased by two cents per barrel until the total amount of such increased tax equals such deficit. Bases such TAP fund surplus or deficit on whether the amount transferred to the Fund from the TAP Liability Fund is greater or lesser than the total amount of claims which the Secretary of the Interior certifies as outstanding against the TAP Liability Fund at the time of such transfer. Amends the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 to provide for environmental excise taxes on petroleum and certain chemicals. Imposes an excise tax (the "petroleum tax"), for fiscal years 1981 through 1986, of 1.3 cents a barrel on: (1) crude oil received at a U.S. refinery, to be paid by the operator; (2) petroleum products entered into the United States for consumption, use, or warehousing, to be paid by the person entering such product; and (3) any domestic crude oil used in or exported from the United States which has not been taxed under (1), to be paid by the person using or exporting such crude oil. Exempts from such tax domestic crude oil used, on the premises where it was produced, for extracting oil or natural gas. Defines 'crude oil', 'petroleum product', and 'United States' for purposes of the Act. Provides that only one such petroleum tax shall be imposed on any petroleum product. Title III: Regulations, Effective Dates, and Savings Provisions - Specifies the effective dates of specified provisions of this Act. Amends specified laws, including the Deepwater Port Act of 1974, the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, and the Trans-Alaska Pipeline Act, to conform with the provisions of this Act. Requires pro rata rebates to owners of oil when: (1) the amount of actual claims settled is less than the amount of claims certified against the Trans-Alaska Pipeline Liability Fund (TAP fund) or (2) any TAP fund surplus is not used as an advanced payment to the Comprehensive Oil Pollution Liability Fund. Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to provide that the Secretary of the Army shall make any determination with respect to specified provisions applying to certain navigable waters.
United States · United States Congress · 5 January 1981
Nondiscrimination in Insurance Act - Prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin in the consideration of applications for, or the granting of, insurance policies and the terms of such policies. Permits insurers who regularly provide insurance solely to persons of a single religious affiliation to continue to do so. Grants to State or local governments having insurance discrimination laws the primary opportunity to enforce this Act. Permits an aggrieved person to file a civil action in State or Federal court against an insurer, if a State or local authority which has received notice of a complaint fails to act within 60 days or with respect to those authorities not having insurance discrimination laws. Authorizes the Attorney General to bring a civil action in district court when there is reasonable cause to believe that a person or group is engaged in a pattern or practice of resistance to the rights granted by this Act and that such denial raises an issue of general public importance.
United States · United States Congress · 5 January 1981
Establishes a Commission on More Effective Government to study and recommend ways of promoting economy, efficiency, and improved service within the Executive branch of Government. Directs the Commission to recommend methods to improve the relationship between Federal, State, and local governments. Directs the Commission to submit a final report to the Congress ten days after the Ninety-eighth Congress convenes. Terminates the Commission 90 days after such date. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 5 January 1981
Declares the sense of Congress that the Constitution of the United States does not preclude the use of, and that public school authorities should recognize the value of, discretionary periods of silence for silent prayer, meditation, contemplation, or introspection in the public schools.
United States · United States Congress · 13 December 1980
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System should immediately take all necessary steps to reduce interest rates.
United States · United States Congress · 4 December 1980
Designates the Clinical Center of the National Institutes of Health located in Montgomery County, Maryland, as the Warren Grant Magnuson Clinical Center of the National Institutes of Health. Directs the Committee on Rules and Administration to place appropriate markers or inscriptions at suitable locations within such center to commemorate and designate such building.
United States · United States Congress · 23 September 1980
Expresses the sense of Congress that the President should urge the government of South Korea to fulfill its commitment to democracy and reconsider the process leading to the convictions of government critics. States that Congress will review U.S.-South Korea relations if the harsh sentences are enforced.
United States · United States Congress · 19 September 1980
Honors Raoul Wallenberg for his work in Hungary during World War II. Expresses the sense of Congress that the U.S. delegation to the Madrid meeting of the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe should urge the consideration of the Wallenberg case. Requests the State Department to discover the whereabouts of Raoul Wallenberg from the Soviet Union and secure his return to Sweden.
United States · United States Congress · 19 September 1980
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the peaceful resolution of the Polish workers' strike contributes to international peace. Encourages implementation of the strike settlement without outside interference.
United States · United States Congress · 18 September 1980
Pacific Northwest Electric Power Planning and Conservation Act - Establishes the Pacific Northwest Electric Power and Conservation Planning Council composed of representatives from the States of Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana. Directs the Council to establish a voluntary scientific and statistical advisory committee to assist in the development, collection, and evaluation of specified information relevant to the Council's development and amendment of a regional conservation and electric power plan. Authorizes the Council to establish such other voluntary advisory committees as necessary or appropriate to assist it. Directs the Council to prepare a regional conservation and electric power plan, giving priority in decreasing order of importance, to conservation, renewable resources, energy resources derived from utilizing waste heat or having high fuel conversion efficiency, and other resources. Sets forth the components of such plan, including: (1) an energy conservation program; (2) recommendations for research and development; (3) a methodology for determining environmental and social costs and benefits of conservation measures taken under this Act; (4) a 20-year demand forecast of power resources required to meet the Administrator of the Bonneville Power Administration's obligations and the portion of such obligations which can be met by resources in each of the above priority categories; (5) an analysis of reserve and reliability requirements and cost-effective methods of providing reserves; and (6) a methodology for determining surcharges, if surcharges are recommended by the Council. Directs the Council to study energy conservation measures and analyze the result of the implementation of such measures. Directs the Council and the Administrator of the Bonneville Power Administration to inform the Pacific Northwest public of major regional power issues to insure widespread public involvement in the formulation of regional power policies. Directs the Council to: (1) solicit recommendations from the region's State and Federal fish and wildlife agencies and appropriate Indian tribes for measures to protect, mitigate, and enhance fish and wildlife resources affected by the development and operation of any hydroelectric project of the Columbia River and its tributaries and for fish and wildlife research and development; and (2) develop a program based on the recommendations consisting of measures to protect, mitigate and enhance fish and wildlife affected by any hydroelectric project while assuring the Pacific Northwest a reliable and efficient power supply. Directs the Administrator to utilize the Bonnevile Power Administration fund and the authorities available under this Act and other applicable laws to finance such fish and wildlife protection and enhancement activities. Directs the Council to submit an annual report to specified congressional committees on the actions taken and to be taken by the Council regarding such fish and wildlife protection and enhancement activities. Directs the Council, by a specified date, to complete a thorough analysis of the costs and the equity of the conservation measures and conservation resources implemented pursuant to this Act to consumers in the Pacific Northwest region. Directs the Administrator to offer to sell electric power to each requesting public body and cooperative entitled to preference under the Bonneville Project Act of 1937 and to each requesting investor-owned utility to meet that entity's firm power load which exceeds its resource capability for meeting the previous year's firm loan requirements. Authorizes the Administrator to sell electric power to Federal agencies in the region. Directs the Administrator, subject to certain stipulations, to purchase electric power from a Pacific Northwest utility if offered at the "average system cost" of resources then available to that utility, and to offer, in exchange, to sell an equivalent amount of electric power to such utility for resale to that utility's residential users within the region. Directs the Administrator to determine the "average system cost" on the basis of a methodology developed by the Council and subject to the review and approval by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. Authorizes the Administrator to sell electric power to existing direct service industrial customers which presently have contracts for the purchase of electric power from the Administrator, so long as such sale provides a portion of the reserves for firm power loads within the region. Prohibits the Administrator from selling electric power, including reserves, directly to new direct service industrial customers or to existing direct service industrial customers in excess of the amount permitted above unless the Administrator determines that such proposed sale is consistent with the plan, is approved by the Council, and meets certain additional requirements. Authorizes the Administrator to sell, or otherwise dispose of, electric power, including acquired power, that is surplus to obligations incurred in accordance with this Act and other applicable statutes. Sets forth provisions regarding negotiations for, and offers to enter into, initial long term contracts for the sale and/or exchange of electric power. Directs the Administrator to acquire electric power resources through conservation, to implement all conservation measures, and to acquire such renewable resources, which are installed, by a residential or small commercial consumer to reduce load, as the Administrator determines are consistent with the criteria for developing the regional conservation and electric power plan, and in the case of major resources, as provided in this Act. Provides that such measures and resources may include: (1) loans and grants to consumers for insulation, weatherization, increased system efficiency, and waste energy recovery; (2) technical and financial assistance to, and other cooperation with, the Administrator's customers and governmental authorities to encourage conservation; (3) aiding such customers and authorities in implementing model conservation standards adopted pursuant to this Act; and (4) conducting demonstration projects to determine the cost-effectiveness of conservation measures and direct application of renewable energy resources. Directs the Administrator, when proposing to acquire any major resource, when implementing a conservation measure which will conserve electric power in an amount equal to that of a major resource, when paying or reimbursing investigation and preconstruction expenses of the sponsors of a major resource, or when granting billing credit involving a major resource to: (1) conduct public hearings; (2) give notice of the proposed action to the Council, the Governor of each affected State, and the Administrator's customers; and (3) publish such notice in the Federal Register. Directs the Administrator to submit a written decision on such action to the Council and to the public for the Council's approval. Prohibits the Administrator from implementing any such proposed action without submitting to the appropriate congressional committees the administrative record of the decision. Establishes procedures to be followed when the Administrator wishes to acquire a resource, which does not meet the criteria of this Act, for experimental, developmental, or demonstration purposes, but which has a potential for providing cost-effective service to the region. Establishes procedures to be followed for entering into agreements for resources the Administrator determines to be consistent with the plan. Authorizes the Administrator to grant billing credits and provide services to a customer, subject to certain limitations, for such customer's independent conservation activities, and for resources acquired by the customer which reduce the obligation of the Administrator to acquire resources under this Act. Directs the Administrator to investigate opportunities for adding to the region's resources or reducing the region's power costs through the accelerated or cooperative development of resources located outside the States of Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington, if such resources are renewable resources and are planned or considered for development by nonregional agencies which would own, sponsor, or otherwise develop them. Directs the Administrator to establish rates for: (1) the sale and disposition of electric power and the transmission of non-Federal power; and (2) electric power sold to meet the general requirements of public body, cooperative, and Federal agency customers within the Pacific Northwest, and electric utility customers. Sets forth guidelines to be followed in establishing such rates. Authorizes the Administrator to make annual impact aid payments from the Fund to local governments within the region with respect to major transmission facilities which: (1) are within the jurisdictions of such governments; (2) have a substantial impact on such governments; and (3) are completed after the effective date of this Act. Directs the Administrator to determine the amounts of such payments by a regionwide, uniform formula established by rule under the rate-setting procedures set forth in this Act. Amends the Federal Columbia River Transmission System Act to authorize the Administrator: (1) to make expenditures from the Bonneville Power Administration fund for making such payments as are required under this Act; (2) to issue and sell bonds on behalf of the Bonneville Power Administration in order to implement authority under this Act to provide financial assistance for conservation measures, renewable resources, and fish and wildlife; and (3) purchase electric power on a short term basis to meet obligations which may arise because of actions taken under this Act to protect, mitigate and enhance fish and wildlife. Increases the aggregate principal amount of any bonds outstanding at one time after October 1, 1981, by $1,250,000,000, and provides that such amount shall be reserved for the purposes of providing funds for conservation and renewable resources loans and grants in a special revolving account created in the Bonneville Power Administration fund. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to increase the interest rate on such bonds issued by the Administrator if, beginning in fiscal year 1982, the Administrator fails to repay by the end of any fiscal year all the amounts projected to be repaid to the Treasury under the repayment criteria of the Secretary of Energy because of reasons other than a decrease in power sale revenues due to fluctuating streamflows or reasons beyond the Administrator's control. Amends the Act limiting the transfer of electric energy generated at Federal hydroelectric plants in the Pacific Northwest for use outside the Pacific Northwest to redefine the term "Pacific Northwest." Authorizes the Administrator to enter into contracts in accordance with the Bonneville Project Act of 1937. Directs the Administrator to discharge office functions in accordance with the Bonneville Project Act of 1937, the Department of Energy Organization Act, and this Act. Sets forth various administrative and savings provisions. Establishes within the Bonneville Power Administration an executive for conservation and renewable resources who shall be responsible for conservation and direct application renewable resource programs.
United States · United States Congress · 4 September 1980
Establishes the United States Holocaust Memorial Council which shall: (1) provide and encourage appropriate ways for the Nation to observe the Days of Remembrance to commemorate the holocaust; (2) plan, erect, and oversee the operation of a memorial museum to the victims of the holocaust; and (3) develop a plan for carrying out the recommendations of the report submitted to the President on September 27, 1979, by the President's Commission on the Holocaust. Authorizes the Council to receive public land in the District of Columbia on which it may erect the memorial. Terminates the Council's authority to construct a memorial if the erection of the memorial has not commenced within five years of enactment of this Act and sufficient funds to ensure completion of the memorial have not been certified to be available. Authorizes appropriations to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 4 September 1980
Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1981 for the Navy for research, development, testing, and evaluation of a shallow underwater missile (SUM) submarine system.
United States · United States Congress · 27 August 1980
Urges the peaceful resolution of issues raised by Polish workers in accordance with international agreements. Requests the Polish government to release persons unjustly imprisoned during recent worker unrest. Asks all signatories to observe the Declaration on Principles Guiding Relations between Participating States.
United States · United States Congress · 25 August 1980
Declares the sense of Congress that the Constitution of the United States does not preclude, and that public school authorities should recognize the value of, periods of silence (for silent prayer, meditation, contemplation, or introspection) in the public schools to be used at the discretion of individual students.
United States · United States Congress · 22 August 1980
Amends the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act to designate a segment of the Dosewallips River and segments of the Bogachiel, Calawah, and Soleduck Tributaries of the Quillayute River in Washington as components of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. Designates the entire Hoh River, a segment of the Dosewallips River, and a segment of the Quillayute River in Washington for potential addition to the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System.
United States · United States Congress · 21 August 1980
Expresses the sense of Congress that the President should convey congressional concern about the deprivation of the rights of Christians by the Soviet Union, particularly the Pentecostals living in the U.S. Embassy in Moscow. Directs the President to report to Congress on the prospects for religious freedom in the Soviet Union.
United States · United States Congress · 20 August 1980
Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) the President should express to the Soviet Government U.S. concern for the fate of Raoul Wallenberg; and (2) the U.S. delegation to the Madrid meeting of the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe should urge the consideration of the Wallenberg case.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1980
Protection Island National Wildlife Act - Directs the Secretary of the Interior to establish the Protection Island National Wildlife Refuge, Jefferson County, State of Washington.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1980
Expresses the sense of Congress that the President should convey congressional concern about the deprivation of the rights of Protestant Christians by the Soviet Union, particularly the Pentecostals living in the U.S. Embassy in Moscow. Directs the President to report to Congress on the prospects for religious freedom in the Soviet Union.
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 1980
Farm Labor Contractor Registration Act Amendments of 1980 - Amends the Farm Labor Contractor Registration Act of 1963 to revise the definition of "farm labor contractor" to: (1) broaden specified exclusions from such definition (thus broadening certain exemptions from coverage under such Act); and (2) exclude from such definition (and such coverage) any nonprofit or cooperative association of farmers, growers, or ranchers, duly incorporated under appropriate State laws, and operated solely for the mutual benefit of the members thereof, and any full-time or regular employee of such association or cooperative who engages in such activity solely for such employer. Adds other definitions relating to such revisions. Revises the definition of "agricultural employment" to specify that listed activities take place on a farm or ranch. Limits the definition of "migrant worker" to mean (among individuals engaged in agricultural employment on a farm or ranch on a seasonal or temporary basis) only those who cannot regularly return to their domicile each day after working hours, or who are transported from and to their domicile each workday by the person who recruits, solicits, hires, or furnishes such worker for agricultural employment on a farm or ranch owned or operated by another person.
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 1980
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the U.S. delegation to the Copenhagen conference on the United Nations Decade for Women should be encouraged to support resolutions relating to health, education, and employment. Declares that the U.S. delegation to the Conference should oppose any resolutions which do not relate directly to the goals of the Conference. Requires the U.S. delegation to report to Congress on the results of the conference.
United States · United States Congress · 1 July 1980
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the U. S. delegation to the Copenhagen conference on the United Nations Decade for Women should be encouraged to support resolutions relating to health, education, and employment and to sign the Convention on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women. Declares that the U. S. delegation to the Conference should be instructed to oppose any resolutions which do not relate directly to the goals of the Conference. Requires the U. S. delegation to report to Congress on the results of the conference.
United States · United States Congress · 26 June 1980
Amends the Federal Deposit Insurance Act, the National Housing Act, and the Federal Credit Union Act to provide insurance for the full amount of public funds deposited in insured banks, thrift institutions, and credit unions. Repeals the restriction on the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation's authority to limit the aggregate amount of funds that may be deposited in insured banks.
United States · United States Congress · 10 June 1980
Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to permit operations by the Overseas Private Investment Corporation in China, if the President determines that such operations are in the national interest.
United States · United States Congress · 3 June 1980
National Export Policy Act of 1980 - Title I: General Findings and Purposes - Sets forth congressional findings and the purposes of this Act. Title II: Export Financing - Amends the Export-Import Bank Act of 1945 to direct the Export-Import Bank to adopt export finance programs comparable in structure to those extraordinary measures of official export credits offered by competing countries, until such financing is limited by international agreements. Requires the Bank to report annually to Congress as to whether any additional appropriations or any increases in its commitment authority or ceiling levels are necessary to carry out this Act. States that this Act shall not take effect until six months after enactment, unless the President defers the effective date for an additional six months. Declares it to be the policy of the Congress that the Export-Import Bank of the United States should facilitate, particularly in the presence of foreign officially-supported export credit competition, exports to countries: (1) having insufficient access to international credit facilities; (2) demonstrating reasonable economic progress; and (3) offering adequate formal assurances of repayment (currently, must offer sufficient likelihood of repayment). Increases the aggregate amount of loans and contractual liability of guarantees and insurance which may be outstanding at any one time. Requires such activities to be carried out through the Export Expansion Facility. Provides for the capitalization of such facility. Establishes staggered ten-year terms of office for the Bank directors. Declares that the appropriate congressional committees should consider limitations on Bank activities when considering appropriations for international trade activities rather than when considering foreign assistance activities. Title III: Export-Related Tax Policy - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to increase the earned income exclusion for United States citizens working abroad, who are bona fide residents of a foreign country, from an annual rate of $20,000 to: (1) $50,000; or (2) $65,000, if such persons qualify as bona fide residents for certain specified periods. Allows separate exclusions to married individuals who are both working overseas, although one's excess exclusion cannot be used against income earned by the other. Waives the residency requirements to qualify for such exclusion for those required to leave a foreign country because of civil unrest, war, or similar adverse conditions precluding the normal conduct of business. Reduces from 17 to 11 months the foreign residency requirement with respect to the deduction for certain housing expenses of living abroad. Revises the formula for determining the base housing amount with regard to such deduction to make it 16 percent of the salary of a GS-14, step 1. Repeals similar deductions for cost-of-living differential, schooling expenses, home leave travel expenses, and residence in a hardship area. Provides that the foreign bad debt loss deduction shall not exceed the greater of 15 percent of the taxpayer's taxable income from exports, or two percent of the taxpayer's export receivables outstanding at the close of the taxable year. Provides that the amount of bad debt losses that may be added to a bad debt reserve shall not exceed five percent of the taxpayer's export receivables outstanding as of the close of the taxable year. Permits the amortization, based on a period of 60 months, of: (1) foreign market studies; (2) foreign marketing expenses; and (3) foreign patents. Permits an income tax deduction for currency fluctuation losses on export credit which have not been repaid by the end of the taxable year. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to extend the six-month deadline for exempting exports from the manufacturer's excise tax for an additional 12 months if it is determined, after consultation with the Secretary of State, that exports were delayed because of war, civil unrest, or similar adverse conditions in a foreign nation. Amends the Foreign Trade Zones Act to authorize the Secretary of Commerce to approve the duty-free entry of machinery, materials, and fuels to be used for the production of goods in a foreign trade zone if such goods are not subsequently entered into U.S. customs territory. Sets forth requirements before applications for such treatment will be approved. Makes such approval valid for six years. Requires the Foreign Trade Zones Board to include in its annual report to Congress a summary of activities and proposals to increase the use of foreign trade zones to expand U.S. exports. Makes banking organizations which have invested in an export trading company eligible for treatment as domestic international sales corporations (DISC). Includes the gross receipts from the export of services produced in the United States and from export trade services as qualified export receipts, in the case of a DISC which is an export trading company. Directs the Secretary of Commerce, with the Secretary of the Treasury, to develop and distribute information concerning the utilization of the DISC provisions. Makes export trading companies eligible for Subchapter S treatment if the shareholders of such companies are otherwise small business corporations. Exempts such companies from restrictions on the amount of foreign income they can receive and still be eligible for Subchapter S tax treatment. Title IV: Antitrust - Amends the Webb-Pomerene Act to exempt the export trade, export trade activities, and methods of operation of certified export trade associations and export trading companies from the antitrust laws. Delays the effectiveness of any certificate upon the notification of the Secretary of Commerce by the Attorney General or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) of disagreement with the decision to issue a certificate. Sets forth the procedure to be followed by any association, company, or export trading company seeking certification under this Act and by the Secretary in issuing such certificates. Provides for appeal of the Secretary's denial of certification. Authorizes the Attorney General or the FTC to bring an action to invalidate a certification. Requires the Secretary, in consultation with the Attorney General and the FTC, to publish guidelines for determining whether an association or export trading company will meet the certification requirements. Requires certified associations and export trading companies to submit annual reports to the Secretary. Directs the Secretary to establish within the Department of Commerce an office to promote export trade associations and trading companies. Provides for automatic certification of existing associations. Requires that all applications for certification be kept confidential with specified exceptions. Authorizes the Secretary to require an association or trading company to modify its operation to be consistent with international obligations of the United States. Directs the President to appoint, with the Senate's advice and consent, a task force seven years after enactment to examine the effect of this Act and to make recommendations. Directs the Attorney General to study whether: (1) U.S. business conduct to expand exports conflicts with basic antitrust principles; and (2) a more liberal enforcement policy for overseas activities would impede implementation of the antitrust laws. Requires the Attorney General to identify such conduct which would not warrant prosecution under the antitrust laws. Sets forth the procedures for describing such permissible conduct and disclosing such descriptions. Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to intervene in such suits and to provide legal assistance to exporters. Prohibits prosecution under the antitrust laws of exporters who: (1) have notified the Attorney General of their intention to engage in such designated conduct; or (2) receive an approval, or no objection, from the Attorney General concerning proposed transactions. Requires the Attorney General and the Secretary of Commerce to report to Congress concerning implementation of this section. Title V: Amendments to Other Laws that Hinder Exports - Amends the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977 to change the name of such Act to the Business Practices and Records Act. Amends the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 to require issuers of securities to keep their books and maintain a system of internal accounting controls in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Makes issuers liable for knowingly falsifying any books or for the intentionally wrongful maintenance or circumvention of the system of internal accounting controls. Requires only good faith efforts by issuers holding 50 percent or less of the equity capital to use their influence to cause transactions and dispositions of assets to be carried out consistent with such provisions. Repeals the provisions specifying prohibited foreign corrupt practices by issuers. Amends the Business Practices and Records Act to include issuers within the provisions specifying prohibited foreign corrupt practices by domestic concerns. Permits items of value to be given to foreigners in specified circumstances, including courtesy items, demonstration expenses, and payments lawful under the laws of the country of the intended recipient. Directs the Attorney General to issue guidelines specifying permissible conduct and arrangements associated with common types of export sales arrangements and business contracts and precautionary procedures creating a rebuttable presumption of compliance. Provides for the establishment of a Business Practices and Records Act Review Procedure to answer specific inquiries concerning enforcement of such Act. Requires the Attorney General to issue opinions regarding compliance. Makes such opinions final and binding on all parties if the conduct does not involve a violation. Requires annual reports to Congress by: (1) the Attorney General concerning actions taken pursuant to such Act; and (2) the Securities and Exchange Commission concerning the reporting requirements. Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President should negotiate agreements establishing standards of conduct for international business practices, a resolution procedure, and rates of commissions. Directs the President to report to Congress concerning the progress of such negotiations. Requires Congress to review the Business Practices and Records Act after receiving the President's report. Requires an export competitiveness impact statement from any issuing authority taking significant action which could affect adversely U.S. exports or the international competitive position of the United States and its exporters. Expresses the sense of Congress that export paperwork must be reduced to encourage export sales. Requires all agencies to minimize paperwork and reporting requirements. Title VI: Export Awareness and Export Promotion Programs - Export Trading Company Act of 1980 - Directs the Secretary of Commerce to promote export trading companies and facilitate contacts between producers of exportable goods and export trading companies. Authorizes any banking organization to invest up to specified amounts in export trading companies upon notifying, but without obtaining the prior approval of, the appropriate Federal banking agency, if such investment does not cause an export trading company to become a subsidiary of such organization. Allows greater investment by Edge Act Corporations not engaged in banking. Permits any banking organization to invest beyond such limitations with the prior approval of the appropriate Federal banking agency. Requires prior notification of such agencies in specified circumstances. Sets forth further limitations on export trading companies and investments by banking organizations. Specifies factors to be taken into consideration by the banking agencies. Permits such agencies to impose conditions in approving applications to invest in export trading companies. Requires such agencies to report to the appropriate congressional committees concerning implementation of this Act and any recommendations. Provides for judicial review of denial orders in the appropriate U.S. Court of Appeals. Sets forth the grounds for disapproval. Provides for remand for further consideration by the banking agency. Directs the Economic Development Administration and the Small Business Administration to give special weight to export-related benefits when considering applications for loans and guarantees by export trading companies. Directs the Export-Import Bank of the United States to provide loan guarantees to export trading companies or exporters to be secured by accounts receivable or inventories when adequate financing is not otherwise available and such guarantees will facilitate expansion of exports. Small Business Export Expansion Act of 1980 - Amends the Small Business Act to authorize the Administrator of the Small Business Administration (SBA) to permit participating lending institutions to take actions on behalf of the Administrator with respect to deferred participation loans. Empowers the SBA, either directly or in cooperation with lending institutions, to extend credit for export purposes to enable small business concerns to develop foreign markets. Limits the extension of such credit to periods of 18 months or less. Sets a maximum of $750,000 which may be committed to any borrower from the business loan and investment revolving fund. Establishes within the Administration an Office of International Trade to promote sales opportunities for small business goods and services abroad. Requires such Office to: (1) provide small businesses with access to current and complete export information; (2) encourage greater small business participation in trade fairs, shows, missions, and other domestic and overseas export development activities of the Department of Commerce; and (3) assign full-time export development specialists to each Administration regional office. Directs the Administrator, after consultation with specified agencies, to establish an export promotion center in each of two regional offices of the Administration where field offices of the Department of Commerce and the Internal Revenue Service exist. Requires each such center to serve as a one-stop information center of Federal Government export assistance, financing programs available to small business, and other provisions of law governing exporting for small business. Requires: (1) a progress report on the implementation of such centers to the appropriate Congressional committees within six months of enactment of this Act; and (2) an evaluation, within two years after enactment, of the effectiveness of such centers in developing and expanding small business exports. Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to make grants to qualified applicants to encourage the development and implementation of small business international marketing programs. Sets forth eligibility requirements for applicants. Prohibits the use of any Federal funds to directly underwrite any small business participation in foreign trade missions abroad. Requires each small business international marketing program to: (1) have a full-time staff director to manage program activities; (2) have access to export specialists to counsel and assist small business clients; and (3) establish an advisory board. Directs the Secretary to require, as a condition to any grant, that an additional amount equal to twice the amount of such grant be provided from sources other than the Federal Government. Directs the Secretary to develop a plan to evaluate such programs to: (1) determine the impact of such programs on the small businesses assisted; (2) determine the amount of export sales generated by such businesses; and (3) make recommendations concerning continuation and/or expansion of the program. Requires the establishment of at least one small business international program within each region of the Department of Commerce. Directs the Secretary of Commerce, through the International Trade Administration, to maintain a central clearinghouse for the collection, dissemination, and exchange of information between such programs. Directs the Secretary to enter into cooperative agreements with industrial corporations to develop foreign markets for their products. Requires the Secretary to direct specific market research for the products involved in foreign markets upon entering such agreements. Permits interested industrial corporations to submit a proposal incorporating specific marketing actions to the Secretary. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into a marketing agreement after approving any such proposal. Requires repayment of the Federal share of the costs by the entity entering into such an agreement. International Education Programs Act - Amends the Higher Education Act to direct the Secretary of Education to make grants to, and contracts with, institutions of higher education to pay the Federal share of the cost of programs designed to promote linkages between such institutions and the American business community engaged in international economic activities. Requires higher education institutions to apply for such grants and contracts. Limits the amount of Federal assistance. Provides for an advisory board to consider the grants made, or contracts entered into, and to review programs established under this section. Directs each Federal agency and U.S. representative to any international organization to: (1) identify programs affecting the export of U.S. firms' services; (2) make available information concerning such programs; (3) establish programs to publicize export-related programs for services; and (4) modify those programs with an adverse effect on the export of services. Makes the Secretary of Commerce responsible for coordinating such programs. Directs the Department of Treasury to report to Congress concerning the feasibility of extending DISC treatment to the export of services. Title VII: Agricultural Exports - Amends the Commodity Credit Corporation Charter Act to establish the Agricultural Export Credit Revolving Fund to be available for: (1) the export of, or aid in the development of, foreign markets for agricultural commodities; and (2) loans for the acquisition of facilities in foreign countries to improve the countries' capacities to handle agri-commodities exported from the United States. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to report to Congress annually concerning the export credit sales program. Abolishes such fund effective October 1, 1983. Amends the Export-Import Bank Act of 1945 to require the ratio of credit extended by the Export-Import Bank for agricultural exports in comparison with the total amount extended be at least equivalent to the value of agricultural exports in comparison with total value of exports. Specifies exceptions to this requirement. Requests the President to take action to establish an International Wheat Exporting Commission which would establish an annual minimum world market price for wheat and prescribe export quotas. Requires the President to keep Congress informed about the establishment of such Commission and to report annually once such Commission is established. Title VIII: International Agreements - Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) the multilateral trade agreement be strongly implemented; and (2) the efforts must continue to secure a freer world trading environment. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to implement a special export subsidy program for agricultural commodities to neutralize the effects of foreign export subsidy programs. Specifies the circumstances required before such program may be implemented. Expresses the sense of Congress that the President should enter negotiations for international codes of: (1) official export financing; (2) business conduct; (3) reciprocity of antitrust enforcement; and (4) fair trade in services. Requires the President to report to Congress concerning the progress of such negotiations. Title IX: Government Support of Export Goals - Overseas Private Investment Corporation Act of 1980 - Establishes the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) as an independent agency. Sets forth the duties of OPIC. Provides for the capital of OPIC to be paid in through the appropriation process and through transfer from OPIC's earned income. Sets forth the structure of OPIC with a Board of Directors, a President of the Corporation, an Executive Vice President of the Corporation, other officers and staff, and consultants. Authorizes OPIC to issue insurance to eligible investors covering new or existing investments protecting against specified risks. Authorizes OPIC to make arrangements with foreign governments or multilateral organizations for sharing liabilities. Limits the insurance that may be issued to a single investor. Authorizes OPIC to issue guarantees of loans and other investments. Sets forth limitations on such guarantees. Authorizes OPIC to make direct loans to privately owned or mixed publicly and privately owned firms for projects sponsored by or significantly involving United States small business or cooperatives. Limits the circumstances under which OPIC may acquire stock in any other corporation. Authorizes OPIC to initiate and support the identification, assessment, and promotion of private investment opportunities, with specified exceptions. Authorizes OPIC to administer special projects to provide private technical, professional, or managerial assistance in the development of human resources, skills, technology, capital savings, and intermediate financial institutions and cooperatives. Authorizes OPIC to engage in other insurance, reinsurance, and risk sharing activities with other insurance companies, financial institutions, persons, or groups. Limits the amount of reinsurance of liabilities which OPIC may issue. Limits the amount of maximum contingent liability pursuant to insurance or guarantees issued under this Act which may be outstanding at any one time. Establishes the: (1) Direct Investment Fund as a revolving fund to be available for direct investments; and (2) Insurance Reserve and Guaranty Reserve to be available for discharging liabilities. Authorizes appropriations to the investment and guaranty fund in specified circumstances. Authorizes OPIC to issue obligations in specified circumstances in order to discharge liabilities. Requires that all revenues and income transferred to or earned by OPIC be available to carry out OPIC's purposes. Directs OPIC to determine that suitable arrangements exist for protecting OPIC's interests in connection with any insurance, guaranty, or reinsurance issued under this Act. Pledges the full faith and credit of the United States for the full payment and performance of previous obligations. Sets forth conditions with respect to insurance, guaranty, and reinsurance coverage under this Act concerning fees, time limits, fraud, and settlement of disputes. Sets forth administrative provisions and duties applicable to OPIC. Requires OPIC to undertake to broaden the participation of United States small business, cooperatives, and other small investors in the development of small private enterprise in less developed friendly countries or areas. Directs OPIC to report annually to Congress concerning its operations. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to define "eligible investor" in terms of this Act with respect to housing guarantees. Repeals provisions: (1) prohibiting the transfer of OPIC funds between accounts; (2) authorizing the President to deny assistance to any less developed country which fails to enter into an agreement to institute the investment guaranty program; and (3) establishing OPIC. Stipulates that nothing in this part shall be construed as terminating any of OPIC's statutory authority. Requires the President to submit to the appropriate congressional committees any necessary technical or conforming amendments. Declares that the potential for U.S. exports shall be a primary decisionmaking factor in considering which projects to include in U.S. foreign aid programs. Requires the Director of the International Development Cooperation Agency, (IDCA) to transfer the functions of the Office of Reimbursable Development from the Agency for International Development to an independent functional status within the IDCA. Declares that the Office of Management and Budget should assure that adequate budget allocations are made available to carry out the programs prescribed in this Act. Declares that the Department of Justice should do what it can to facilitate procedures for exporters. Declares that the Small Business Administration should: (1) be aware of the benefits of export to small business development; and (2) use every opportunity to provide information and assistance to potential exporters. Declares that the U.S. ability to export coal, nuclear power fuels, and other energy matters in a reliable manner should be a key consideration. Directs congressional committees to include in their reports the effect of the bill or resolution on the international competitiveness of the United States. Creates a National Export Council to: (1) serve as a national advisory body on matters relating to United States export trade: (2) act as a liaison among the communities represented by its membership; and (3) provide advice on Federal plans and actions that affect export promotion and development policies which have an impact on those communities represented by its membership. Requires the Council to make an annual report to the President and the Congress on its activities. Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to appoint commercial ministers, counselors, and attaches with the rank and privileges of other ministers, counselors, and attaches in U.S. embassies and consulates, to: (1) provide trade and commercial services; (2) engage in the promotion of U.S. exports; (3) file semiannual reports to the Secretary on market, industrial, and commodity conditions in their districts and on the implementation of multilateral and bilateral trade agreements; and (4) maintain current data on the commercial standing and capacity of foreign firms within their districts. Provides for domestic assignment, office logistics, allowances and benefits of such ministers, counselors, and attaches. Directs the Comptroller General to report to Congress with any recommendations concerning: (1) the organization of international trading and financing programs in the United States; (2) the effectiveness of foreign export promotion programs; and (3) the trade activities of specified Federal agencies. Expresses the sense of Congress that the appropriate congressional committees should review periodically the trade organization of the U.S. Government.
United States · United States Congress · 29 May 1980
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that: (1) the independence of Yugoslavia and its continued development of a multinational federation are consistent with U.S. and European security interests and contribute to world peace; and (2) the President should assist Yugoslavia in maintaining its independence and in improving the well-being of its people.
United States · United States Congress · 28 May 1980
Expresses congressional support for the President's proposals on improving the United Nations' peacekeeping capabilities. Requests the President to: (1) reaffirm his support for such proposals; (2) seek expeditious implementation of such proposals; and (3) report to Congress on progress implementing such proposals.
United States · United States Congress · 20 May 1980
Honors Raoul Wallenberg for his work in Hungary during World War II. Requests the State Department to discover the whereabouts of Raoul Wallenberg from the Soviet Union and secure his return to Sweden.
United States · United States Congress · 14 May 1980
Authorizes and requests the President to designate the seven-day period beginning October 5, 1980, as "National Port Week." Directs the Secretary of Commerce to report annually to Congress on the conditions of U.S. public ports.
United States · United States Congress · 13 May 1980
Directs the Secretary of State to negotiate a lump sum agreement with Czechoslovakia providing for full payment of all certified awards against Czechoslovakia determined by the Foreign Claims Settlement Commission. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to take full possession of all Czechoslovak gold located in the United States, if a settlement agreement is not submitted to Congress, or such agreement has not been approved by Congress, within 60 days of enactment of this Act. Requires the Secretary of State to negotiate with Great Britain and France to obtain permission to sell Czechoslovak gold located in Great Britain. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to sell all such gold obtained and invest the proceeds in safe U.S. and foreign securities for payment of the awards of U.S. nationals. Requires all interest and other income from such investments to be deposited into the Czechoslovakian Claims Fund for distribution to those U.S. nationals holding certified awards against Czechoslovakia. Provides for the payment to Czechoslovakia of all the proceeds from such gold sale and any balance remaining in such Fund after all such awards have been paid and Treasury Department expenses are recovered. Denies jurisdiction to any court over any claim against the United States for actions taken under this Act. Supercedes provisions prohibiting the release of Czechoslovak gold until an agreement with Czechoslovakia is approved by Congress.
United States · United States Congress · 8 May 1980
Amends the Department of State Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 1980 and 1981, to increase the authorization of appropriation to the State Department for fiscal year 1980 and 1981 for international organizations and conferences and for fiscal year 1981 for the administration of foreign affairs (earmarks a specified portion for payment ex gratia to Yugoslavia for injuries sustained by a Yugoslav national). Decreases the authorization of appropriations for international commissions. Repeals the ceilings on the aggregate amount spent on the administration of foreign affairs, international organizations and conferences, and international commissions. Amends the Board for International Broadcasting Act of 1973 to increase the authorization of appropriations for fiscal years 1980 and 1981 for the Board for International Broadcasting. Amends specified passport provisions to provide for the Secretary of State to prescribe a fee for issued passports which shall be paid into the U.S. Treasury (presently such fees are set at ten dollars for each passport and are paid quarterly). Extends the period of validity of a passport from five years to ten years. Removes the ceiling on authorized funds for the U.S. share of expenses of the Pan American Institute of Geography and History. Prohibits the U.S. payment of its share of the annual expenses of the Hague Conference on Private International Law and of the International (Rome) Institute for the Unification of Private Law from exceeding ten percent of the total expenses after 1978 (currently seven percent). Amends the United Nations Participation Act of 1945 to direct the President to appoint, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, a U.S. representative to the Vienna office of the United Nations. Authorizes the use of appropriated funds for living quarters for the staffs of U.S. representatives to the United Nations. Authorizes necessary appropriations for the U.S. share of the expenses of the United Nations peacekeeping forces (presently limited to those in the Middle East). Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1969 to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 1981 for the Inter-American Foundation. Exempts private sector representatives on U.S. delegations to international telecommunications conferences, who are specifically designated as the U.S. Representative with respect to a particular matter, from specified criminal code provisions on conflicts of interest. Requires such representatives to have on file a financial disclosure report with the State Department. Amends the United States Information and Educational Exchange Act of 1948 to permit any person having special scientific, technical, or professional qualifications, in the employ or service of the U.S. Government, to be assigned to a foreign government (presently restricted to U.S. citizens). Authorizes the making of procurement contracts for periods which do not exceed five years if: (1) appropriations are adequate for the first fiscal year; (2) Government need is reasonably firm and continuing; (3) such contract will encourage effective competition or promote economics in performance and operation; and (4) such method will not inhibit small business participation. Requires such contracts to be cancelled if funds are not available for continuation into subsequent fiscal years. Revises the authority of the Director of the International Communication Agency (ICA) to purchase vehicles for use abroad to permit security vehicles to be purchased without regard to maximum price limitations. Provides for the principal assistant of an ICA Associate Director to perform the duties of any Associate Director who dies, resigns, or is sick or absent. Requires the ICA Director to make available the film, "Reflection: Samuel Eliott Morison," for public distribution within the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 7 May 1980
Expresses a congressional tribute to the members of the Armed Forces who participated in the mission to rescue the Americans held hostage in Iran and urges the President to dedicate May 17, 1980, Armed Forces Day, to such military personnel.
United States · United States Congress · 1 May 1980
Export Promotion and Export Trading Company Act of 1980 - Directs the Secretary of Commerce to encourage the formation of export trading companies by providing information and advice to interested persons. Requires the Secretary to provide a referral service to facilitate contacts between producers of exportable goods and services and concerns offering export trade services. Permits State and local governments to participate in such export trading companies. Amends the Webb-Pomerene Act to exempt trading companies, solely with respect to their export trade activities, from antitrust restrictions. Directs the President, five years after enactment, to appoint a task force to study and report any recommendations to the President concerning the effect of this Act on domestic competition and the U.S. trade deficit.
United States · United States Congress · 1 May 1980
Domestic Timber Supply Protection Act of 1980 - Prohibits the Secretaries of Agriculture and the Interior from selling unprocessed timber from Federal lands which will be exported, used as a substitute for other unprocessed timber which will be exported, or obtained by persons who: (1) export unprocessed timber; (2) own land from which such timber is exported; or (3) buy such timber for export. Permits the Secretary of Agriculture, after consultation with the Secretary of the Interior and public hearings, to exempt from such prohibition specific quantities of grades and species of unprocessed timber.
United States · United States Congress · 23 April 1980
Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act - Disclaims extraterritorial sovereignty by the United States over deep seabed resources. Encourages the Secretary of State to negotiate a comprehensive Law of the Sea Treaty. Encourages the Secretary of State to promote international action to protect the environment from the adverse impacts of exploration for or commercial recovery of hard minerals until such a treaty is concluded. Title I: Regulation of Exploration and Commercial Recovery by United States Citizens - Prohibits any United States citizen from engaging in exploration or commercial recovery unless authorized: (1) under a license or permit issued pursuant to this Act; (2) under a license or permit issued by a reciprocating state; or (3) pursuant to an international agreement. Exempts specified activities from such prohibitions. Permits the continuation of existing exploration upon timely application for such license, unless the President or Secretary of Commerce issues an emergency order to suspend such activities for specified reasons. Entitles applicants continuing existing exploration to priority of right for the issuance of such license. Prohibits interference with the activities of a licensee or permittee under this Act. Entitles the holder of a valid existing license for exploration to priority of right for a commercial recovery permit. Specifies that such permit recognizes the right of the holder to recover, own, take away, use, and sell the hard mineral resources. Provides that in the event of interference with the exploration or commercial recovery of a licensee or permittee by nationals of other states, the Secretary of State shall use all peaceful means to resolve the controversy. Sets forth procedures for the issuance or transfer of, and limitations upon, licenses for exploration and permits for commercial recovery under this Act. Declares any United States citizen to be eligible for such licenses or permits. Requires applicants for licenses or permits to submit an exploration or recovery plan which sets forth the activities to be carried out. Specifies that such exploration plan should include a description of the area to be explored, the exploration schedule, the methods to be used, an estimate of minimum expenditures, and measures to protect the environment. Specifies that such recovery plan shall include the schedule for commercial recovery, environmental safeguards and monitoring systems, details of the area proposed for such recovery, a resource assessment, the methods and technology to be used, and the methods for disposal of wastes. Allows the applicant to select the size and location of the work plan area which shall be approved unless the Secretary of Commerce finds that: (1) the size of the area is not a logical mining unit; or (2) commercial recovery activities would have a significant adverse impact on the environment which cannot be avoided. Establishes a formula for the determination of priority of right for issuance to applicants other than those continuing exploration or already holding a valid license. Provides for an antitrust review by the Attorney General and the Federal Trade Commission of any license or permit application. Requires the Secretary to provide by regulations for full consultation and cooperation with other Federal agencies or departments which have programs or activities which would be affected by activities carried out under a license or permit. Requires notice, an opportunity for public comments, and hearings on all applications for issuance or transfer of a license or permit. Sets forth findings which must be made prior to issuance of a license for exploration or permit for commercial recovery. Provides that the Secretary shall propose terms, conditions, and restrictions on the exploration or commercial recovery proposed in the application. Permits the licensee or permittee to object to such terms, conditions, and restrictions if such licensee or permittee believes they are inconsistent with this Act. Subjects any final determination made by the Secretary to judicial review. Requires the Secretary to consult with any affected Regional Fishery Management Council prior to taking any action on a license or permit. Permits modifications or suspension of operations upon order of the Secretary of Commerce. Sets forth procedures and effects of denial, suspension, or revocation of a license. Allows the President to issue an emergency order suspending or modifying particular activities, if he determines that such action is necessary to avoid international conflict. Permits the Secretary to issue such emergency orders in certain circumstances. Requires that the exploration or recovery plan and the terms, conditions, and restrictions of each license and permit be designed to assure diligent development. Provides that each license shall require such expenditures for exploration as the Secretary shall establish. Stipulates that such expenditures shall not be established at a level which would discourage exploration by persons with less costly technology. Permits the Secretary to require the permittee to maintain commercial recovery throughout the period of the permit. Directs the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to expand and accelerate the program assessing the environmental effects of exploration and commercial recovery activities. Requires the Administrator to conduct a continuing program of ocean research to support environmental assessment activity. Requires the Administrator to prepare a plan to carry out the program and submit such plan to the Congress. Directs the Secretary to prepare a programmatic environmental impact statement with respect to the areas likely to be developed by United States citizens. States that the issuance of any license or permit shall be deemed to be a major Federal action significantly affecting the quality of the human environment for the purposes of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969. Directs the Secretary to issue regulations for the implementation of this Act. Requires that each license and permit contain terms, conditions, and restrictions which have due regard for the conservation of natural resources. Prohibits licensees or permittees from interfering with reasonable uses of the seas. Requires certain recordkeeping, environmental impact statements, navigational safety procedures, and disclosures by licensees and permittees. Stipulates that the Secretary shall withhold data or information the disclosure of which is prohibited by the Trade Secrets Act. Permits the Secretary to monitor exploration or commercial recovery operations. Permits relinquishment or surrender of such licenses or permits. Requires that the public shall have notice of, and opportunity for comment and hearings on, any promulgation of rules and regulations or action on licenses or permits by the Secretary. Allows a person to commence a civil action for equitable relief against any person in violation of this Act or against the Secretary when the Secretary has failed to perform nondiscretionary duties or acts. Permits the Secretary to designate "reciprocating states" as defined by this Act. Authorizes the President to negotiate international agreements to provide for such designations. Directs the Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of State and the heads of other appropriate departments and agencies, to consult with foreign nations which enact or are preparing to enact domestic legislation establishing a legal framework for exploration or recovery of hard mineral resources for the purpose of establishing reciprocity. Directs the Secretary to provide such foreign nations with information on environmental impacts of exploration and commercial recovery activities, and to provide technical assistance in designing regulatory measures to protect the environment. Title II: Transition to International Agreement - Declares the intent of Congress regarding any international seabed agreements to which the United States may become a party to be: (1) to provide reasonable access to the deep seabed mineral resources for United States citizens; and (2) to recognize certain continuing mining rights of United States citizens who have begun such mining operations prior to any such international agreement. Sets forth the effect upon specified provisions of this Act resulting from subsequent international agreements. Disclaims any legal or moral obligation on the part of the United States Government to compensate any person for any impairment of the value of investment in any exploration or commercial recovery activities which might occur in connection with an international agreement. Title III: Enforcement, and Miscellaneous Provisions - Declares violations of this Act to be unlawful. Establishes civil and criminal penalties for such violations. Directs the Secretary to enforce this Act. Stipulates that the Secretary of the Department in which the Coast Guard is operating shall have exclusive responsibility for enforcement measures carried out at sea. Sets forth the powers of enforcement of officers authorized by such Secretary. Makes vessels in violation of this Act liable in rem for such violation. Provides that any vessel and its cargo used in connection with any prohibited act may be subject to forfeiture to the United States. Gives the district courts exclusive jurisdiction over any case or controversy arising under this Act. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to issue regulations for the implementation of this Act. Permits the Secretary to amend such regulations at any time. Stipulates that such amended regulations shall apply to any activities under an existing permit unless the Secretary determines that economic hardship to the licensee or permittee significantly outweighs the conservation of natural resources or protection of the environment to be achieved. Requires that such regulations be consistent with the requirements of specified Acts. Directs the Secretary to submit to the Congress biennial reports on the administration of this Act. Title IV: Tax - Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Removal Tax Act of 1979 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 to impose a tax on the removal of hard mineral resources from the deep seabed. Establishes in the United States Treasury a Deep Seabed Revenue Sharing Trust Fund.
United States · United States Congress · 21 April 1980
Comprehensive Housing Development Act of 1980 - Amends the National Housing Act to increase the allowable maximum amount for mortgage assistance payments under such Act. Authorizes appropriations for such mortgage assistance payments through October 1, 1981. Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, under the mortgage insurance program, to insure a mortgage involving a principal obligation which exceeds, by up to ten percent, the maximum limits specified under the Act, if such mortgage relates to a dwelling to be occupied by a physically handicapped person and the additional principal reflects the cost of making the dwelling accessible to such person. Allows the Secretary, in order to prevent inflationary conditions and related governmental actions from having a severely disproportionate effect on the housing industry, to make and contract to make periodic assistance payments to mortgagees or other lenders on behalf of homeowners (including the owners of mobile homes). Terminates such authority on September 30, 1981, or at such earlier date as the Secretary may deem appropriate. Specifies that such payments may be made only on behalf of a homeowner who satisfies such eligibility requirements as may be prescribed by the Secretary. Requires a homeowner to continue to occupy the property which secures the mortgage or loan in order to receive such assistance payments. Sets forth the formula for determining the amount of such assistance payments. Allows the Secretary to include in the payment to the mortgagee or other lender such amount as the Secretary deems appropriate to reimburse the mortgagee or lender for its reasonable and necessary expenses in handling the mortgage or loan. Limits assistance payments for mobile homes to no more than 20 percent of the total number of units for which assistance is approved. Allows the Secretary, upon application by the mortgagee, to insure a mortgagor who meets the eligibility requirements for assistance payments as set forth by the Secretary. Sets forth the eligibility requirements for such insurance. Allows the Secretary to provide for graduated mortgage assistance payments, and to insure mortgages with varying rates of amortization, for not in excess of 100,000 mortgages. Extends until October 1, 1981, the authority of the Government National Mortgage Association to enter into new commitments to purchase mortgages under the interim mortgage purchase authority of the National Housing Act, as amended by the Emergency Home Purchase Assistance Act of 1974. Amends the National Housing Act to authorize appropriations to cover losses sustained by the General Insurance Fund. Allows the Secretary to make, and contract to make, periodic interest reduction payments on behalf of the owner of a multifamily rental project. Allows such payments to be made for a period of not more than 30 years to mortgagees holding mortgages secured by such project. Sets forth the formula for determining the amount of such payments. Sets forth the eligibility requirements which must be met in order to receive such payments. Requires the Secretary to provide that such payments are made only with respect to that part of the mortgage concerning the portion of the project which is used for residential purposes and only for the benefit of the families residing in such projects. Specifies that such payments may be made only to a project located within the jurisdictional boundaries of a unit of general local government which has made substantial progress in meeting its annual goals for housing for lower- income persons as specified in its housing assistance plan submitted pursuant to the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974. Requires the Secretary, in making such assistance, to give a preference to projects which have or will receive financial contributions from a State or local government which will result in lower rental charges to the families residing therein. Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 to require an applicant for grants for State and local community development programs to submit a housing assistance plan which: (1) accurately surveys the condition of housing stock in the community designed for persons who have incomes which do not exceed 150 percent of the median income for the area; (2) assesses the housing assistance needs of such person; (3) specifies a realistic goal of the number of rental dwelling units which will be provided such persons as a result of such program; and (4) indicates the general locations of such dwelling units.
United States · United States Congress · 17 April 1980
Hostage Relief Act of 1980 - Title I: Amendments to Title 5 of the United States Code - Amends title 5 of the United States Code to direct the Secretary of the Treasury to establish a savings fund to which the head of an agency may allot all or a portion of the pay and allowances of any employee who is in a missing status on or after November 4, 1979, as the result of a hostile action against the United States. Requires interest on such fund to be compounded quarterly at the average rate paid on United States Treasury bills with three-month maturities issued during the calendar quarter immediately preceding the first day of the applicable pay period. Directs the President to issue regulations to authorize agency heads to reimburse (up to $25,000 in any calendar year) any such employee, or dependent of such an employee, for necessary travel, rest and recuperation, private medical car, and other expenses related to the ordeal which are incurred on or after such date. Entitles the spouse of such an employee to reimbursement, for a certain time, for expenses incurred for tuition, books, fees, and subsistence while attending an educational or training institution. Extends to such employees the provisions of the Soldiers' and Sailors' Civil Relief Act of 1940, deferring civil actions that affect property rights of such persons until their missing status is ended. Applies the provisions of this Title to all citizens and resident aliens of the United States held hostage in Teheran at any time during November, 1979, and to their dependents and spouses, regardless of whether they are Federal employees. Title II: Amendments to the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to exclude from the gross income of such an employee compensation received for active service for any month during the period of his or her missing status, or during which such employee was hospitalized as a result of wounds, injury, disease, or partial or total physical or mental disablement incurred during a hostile action against the United States. Cancels the income taxes for any such employee who dies as a result of such hostile action, for the year in which death occurs and for all prior years during which the employee was in missing status. Authorizes spouses of such employees to file a joint income tax return. Defers the filing of an income tax return by such an employee until after 180 days following the termination of his or her missing status. Applies the provisions of this Title to all citizens and resident aliens of the United States held hostage in Teheran at any time during November, 1979, regardless of whether they are Federal employees. Applies the tax exclusion to non-employees only to the extent of the daily equivalent of the annual basic rate of pay in effect for level V of the Executive Schedule.
United States · United States Congress · 16 April 1980
Calls upon the President to: (1) increase humanitarian assistance to East Timor; (2) encourage Indonesia to allow free emigration from East Timor; (3) establish a U.S. presence in East Timor; and (4) encourage Indonesia to withdraw its troops from East Timor and allow self-determination for the East Timorese.
United States · United States Congress · 15 April 1980
American Fisheries Promotion Act - Title I: Research and Development Regarding United States Fisheries - Directs that funds transferred by the Secretary of Agriculture to the Secretary of Commerce from duties collected under custom laws on fishery products shall be maintained in a separate fund and used by the Secretary of Commerce to: (1) provide financial assistance for the purpose of carrying out fisheries development projects approved under this Act; and (2) implement the national fisheries research and development program as set forth by this Act. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to make grants from such fund to assist persons in carrying out research and development fishery projects, including, but not limited to, harvesting, processing, marketing, and associated infrastructures. Subjects each such grant to such terms and conditions as the Secretary may require to protect the interests of the United States. Requires the Secretary to carry out a national program of research and development addressed to United States fisheries, if not adequately covered by projects assisted by grants made pursuant to this Act. Requires the Secretary, not later than 60 days before the close of each fiscal year, to submit to specified Congressional committees a report containing: (1) the fisheries development goals and funding priorities for the next fiscal year; (2) the status of each pending project; and (3) an analysis and evaluation of all projects assisted under this Act. Specifies, with respect to any fiscal year, that not less than 75 percent of the moneys transferred to the fund and such existing fund moneys carried over into that fiscal year shall be used by the Secretary to provide financial assistance for projects and the remainder of such moneys shall be used to implement the national fisheries research and development program. Requires the Secretary to award a grant for or carry out pursuant to the national fisheries research and development program: (1) a project to establish and operate a system (in which participation must be voluntary) to grade the quality of fish landed at a United States port; or (2) a project to improve fuel efficiency in carrying out fishing operations within a United States fishery. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to appoint not fewer than six officers who shall, with the concurrence of the Secretary of State, serve abroad to promote United States fishing interests. Requires the Secretary of State, upon the request of the Secretary of Commerce, to officially assign the officers to the diplomatic mission of the United States in the country in which such officers are placed, and to obtain for them diplomatic privileges and immunities. Title II: Amendments to the Merchant Marine Act, 1936 - Extends provisions of the Merchant Marine Act of 1936 which govern a capital construction fund for vessels built in the United States to govern such a fund for fishing vessels built in, and fishing facilities located in, a Commonwealth, territory, possession, or State of the United States. Authorizes the Secretary: (1) to guarantee the payment of obligations for financing or refinancing the construction, reconstruction, or reconditioning of fishery facilities capable of being used for priority development fisheries; and (2) to apply an economic soundness test with respect to guarantees of obligations for fishing vessels or facilities designed for use in such priority fisheries which is less stringent than the test applicable to other obligation guarantees under such Act. Directs the Secretary to establish within the Federal Ship Financing Fund three subfunds to contain moneys for obligation guarantees for: (1) fishing vessels and facilities meeting the more stringent test; (2) high risk fishing vessels and facilities meeting the less stringent test; and (3) vessels other than fishing vessels. Declares that during the period beginning on the date of the enactment of this Act and ending at the close of September 30, 1982, the Secretary of Commerce may make loans from the fisheries loan fund only for the purpose of assisting obligors to avoid default on obligations that are issued with respect to the construction, reconstruction, reconditioning or purchase of fishing vessels. Title III: Amendments to the Fishery Conservation and Management Act of 1976 - Amends the Fishery Conservation and Management Act of 1976 to provide for a reduction of the total allowable level of foreign fishing, if any, with respect to any United States fishery for each of the harvesting seasons 1981, 1982, 1983, and 1984. Declares that the total allowable level of foreign fishing permitted within any United States fishery during any harvesting season after the 1984 harvesting season is zero, except if the Secretary of Commerce determines that such reduction will result in a substantial surplus of fish stocks within the fishery and that such surplus will not be harvested by vessels of the United States during such harvesting season. Specifies that a recommendation by the Secretary that such reduction be deferred or continued with respect to any harvesting season shall take effect only if: (1) a report containing the recommendation is received by Congress not later than 90 days before the opening day of the respective harvesting season; and (2) neither House of Congress, within the 60 day period beginning on the day on which the report is received by Congress, adopts a disapproval resolution. Requires the owner or operator of any foreign fishing vessel for which a permit is issued pursuant to the Fishery Conservation and Management Act of 1976 to pay an additional fee equal to ten percent of the ex vessel price of the catch harvested under such permit. Requires the Secretary of Commerce to establish a program under which a United States observer will be stationed aboard each foreign fishing vessel while that vessel is within the fishery conservation zone and is: (1) engaging in fishing; (2) accepting United States harvested fish through transfer at sea; (3) cruising to and from a location at which any such fishing or transfer will transpire; or (4) taking highly migratory species. Requires such observers, while aboard foreign fishing vessels, to carry out such scientific and other functions as the Secretary deems necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act. Directs the Secretary to impose, with respect to each foreign fishing vessel, a surcharge in an amount sufficient to cover all costs of providing a United States observer aboard that vessel. Establishes, in the Treasury of the United States, the Foreign Fishing Observer Fund in which the Secretary shall deposit all surcharges collected.
![Official portrait of Rep. Bonker, Don [D-WA-3]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/b000620_200.jpg)