United States · United States Congress · 10 September 1979
Federal Firearms Law Reform Act of 1979 - Title I: Amendments to Gun Control Act - Amends the Gun Control Act of 1968 to redefine: (1) "manufacturer" to mean any person engaged in the "business of manufacturing" (instead of "manufacture" of) firearms or ammunition; and (2) "dealer" to exclude dealers in ammunition and persons engaged in the business of repairing firearms. Adds a new definition, "engaged in the business", with respect to manufacturers, dealers, and importers. Includes as a manufacturer of ammunition a person whose gross sales of his own ammunition exceed $1,000 in any calendar year. Includes as a dealer in firearms a person who deals in firearms as a regular course of business with the principal objective of livelihood and profit through the repetitive purchase and resale of firearms. Replaces the current term "crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year" with a new definition of "disabling crime." Eliminates certain activities regarding ammunition from the coverage of the current prohibitions. Revises current provisions respecting the interstate sale or transfer of firearms. Revises the current prohibition against selling a firearm or ammunition to certain persons (such as persons under indictment for a felony or addicted to drugs) to apply such prohibition only to persons convicted of a disabling crime. Revises the current prohibition against certain persons transporting a firearm or ammunition in interstate commerce to: (1) extend such prohibition to possession or receipt in commerce or affecting commerce of any firearm or ammunition; (2) conform such prohibition to the new "disabling crime" provision; and (3) include as additional categories illegal aliens, persons dishonorably discharged from the Armed Forces, and persons who have renounced their United States citizenship. Makes the same changes to the current prohibition against certain persons who receive a firearm or ammunition which has been transported in interstate commerce, but applies such prohibition to persons who are employed by specified individuals. Excludes ammunition dealers from the current licensing requirements. Stipulates that the Secretary of the Treasury may revoke a license only where the holder of such license has "knowingly" violated a provision of the Act or regulation. Bars the Secretary from denying or revoking a license on the basis of violations under this Act which are alleged in criminal proceedings instituted against a licensee, but for which such individual has not been convicted. Imposes as a condition for the inspection or examination of records, documents, and any firearm or ammunition kept by an importer, manufacturer, or dealer pursuant to this Act that the Secretary has reasonable grounds to believe that a violation has occurred and that evidence may be found on the premises of such persons. Restricts the firearm information obtained from licensees which the Secretary may make available to State or local governments. Establishes a limited recordkeeping requirement for firearms collectors. Stipulates that the general penalty under this Act shall apply to whoever "willfully" violates any provision. Prohibits, with respect to a person's second or subsequent conviction for illegally using or carrying a firearm during the commission of a felony, the granting of parole before completion of the minimum sentence. Amends the forfeiture provision to subject to seizure any firearm or ammunition "involved in or used" in any violation of the Act (instead of "involved in or used or intended to be used"). Requires a court to award attorney's fees to the prevailing party (other than the United States) in an action or proceeding for the return of seized firearms or ammunition. Allows the court to award such fees in any other action upon a finding that the action was initiated in bad faith. Amends the rulemaking authority of the Secretary to provide that no regulation may require (1) the transfer of records required under this Act to a facility owned, managed, or controlled by the United States or any State or (2) the establishment of any system of registration of firearms, firearms owners, or firearms transactions. Requires a 90-day public comment period for proposed regulations (no period is currently specified). Allows one House of Congress to disapprove by resolution any firearms regulation within 90 days of continuous session of the promulgation of such rule. Set forth procedures for such resolutions. Prohibits the Secretary from prescribing any rules identical to regulations disapproved by Congress without the enactment of additional legislation respecting his authority. Prohibits the Secretary from prescribing regulations which require purchasers of black powder to complete affidavits or forms attesting to their exemption from certain provisions of the Federal criminal code. Makes any law or regulation promulgated by any State prohibiting the transfer of an unloaded and not readily accessible firearm or ammunition null and void. Title II: Amendments to title VII of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 - Repeals title VII of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act (relating to the receipt, possession, or transportation of firearms by felons, veterans dishonorably discharged, mental incompetents, illegal aliens, and persons renouncing their United States citizenship).
United States · United States Congress · 5 September 1979
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide a tax exclusion from personal income earned abroad by an individual performing qualified charitable services for a tax-exempt employer created or organized in the United States. Limits such exclusion to an amount not to exceed a figure computed on a daily basis at an annual rate of $20,000. Sets a formula for the maximum amount of exclusion for an individual who performs such charitable services and also performs other services while residing in a camp located in a hardship area.
United States · United States Congress · 5 September 1979
Exempts classroom performances or displays of a work by instructors or pupils of any educational institution (presently a nonprofit educational institution) from copyright royalty requirements.
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1979
Sales Representatives Protection Act - Title I: Contracts Between Sales Representatives and Principals - Requires a principal to furnish specified information to a sales representative concerning orders placed through the representative's account and a monthly accounting of commissions due such representative. Enumerates items which must be set forth in any contract between a sales representative and a principal. Title II: Indemnification - Exempts principals conforming with such information requirements from the indemnification provisions set forth in this Act. Requires a principal who, without good cause, terminates a contract between such principal and a sales representative, or reduces the rate of commission for orders solicited on behalf of such principal, to indemnify the representative according to this Act. Requires a principal who reduces the size of the geographic territory assigned to a representative for a specified account, which results in a specified reduction in commissions, to indemnify such representative. Sets forth formulae for the indemnification of such representatives. Title III: Miscellaneous - Allows a plaintiff to bring an action to enforce any rights or liabilities created by this Act in a United States district court. Stipulates the procedure for such action.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1979
North Pacific Fur Seal Protection Act of 1979 - Title I: Termination of Convention - Expresses the sense of Congress that the Interim Convention on the Conservation of North Pacific Fur Seals should not be continued. Declares that the President should terminate such Convention and enter into negotiations for an international agreement banning all killing of such seals. Title II: Protection of Seals - Directs the Secretary of the Interior to establish the Pribilof Wildlife Refuge. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to designate that part of the fishery conservation zone extending seaward of the Pribilof Islands, Alaska, as a marine sanctuary. Prohibits the taking of seals within such Refuge and marine sanctuary, unless by the natives for subsistence purposes. Sets forth sanctions for violations of these provisions. Directs the Secretaries to employ, to the greatest extent possible, Pribilof Islands natives as rangers and guides. Stipulates that this title shall become effective upon termination of the Convention. Title III: Advisory Council; Social Services Programs - Provides for the establishment of an advisory committee to study and recommend to Congress alternative means of developing a livelihood for Pribilof Islands natives in lieu of the taking of seals, upon the termination of the Convention. Requires the Secretary of the Interior to assure that the income of Pribilof Islands natives engaged in the taking of seals be maintained, after the prohibition on the taking of seals takes effect. Title IV: Other Provisions of Law - Repeals title I (Conservation and Protection of North Pacific Fur Seals) of the Fur Seal Act of 1966. Stipulates that the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 shall not apply if the taking of seals is prohibited under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1979
Fisheries Advanced Technology Transfer Act of 1979 - Requires the Secretary of Commerce to conduct a study of the fish harvesting and processing techniques and technologies which are utilized in foreign nations and in the United States which can be used or adapted for use in harvesting or processing fish or fish products within the United States fisheries. Declares that such technologies and techniques may include, but are not limited to, those involving or related to fishing gear, processing equipment, vessels, harvesting methods, or processing methods. Requires the Secretary of Commerce to report the results of such study to the House Committee on Merchant Marine and Fisheries and the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, within six months after the date of enactment of this Act. Permits organizations in the fishing industry and regional fishery development foundations to submit applications for funds to conduct projects which will enable such persons, foundations, and organizations to utilize the advanced technologies and techniques in commercial harvesting and processing of fish. Directs the Secretary, when considering such project applications, to take into account the extent to which: (1) a project addresses both the harvesting and processing of fish; (2) a project addresses problems common to more than one fishery, State, or region; (3) the project promotes the United States' efficient utilization of fishery resources within the United States fishery conservation zone; (4) the project minimizes costs and avoids unnecessary duplication; and (5) applicants are able to defray the cost of conducting a project by providing matching funds or in-kind contributions of equipment, labor, or services, including, but not limited to, boats, gear, and locations.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1979
Amends the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act of 1972 to repeal title III, with respect to the designation of marine sanctuaries, and renames such Act the Marine Protection and Research Act of 1972.
United States · United States Congress · 16 July 1979
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide a tax exclusion from personal income earned abroad by an individual performing qualified charitable services for a tax-exempt employer created or organized in the United States. Limits such exclusion to an amount not to exceed a figure computed on a daily basis at an annual rate of $20,000. Sets a formula for the maximum amount of exclusion for an individual who performs such charitable services and also performs other services while residing in a camp located in a hardship area.
United States · United States Congress · 13 July 1979
Farm Credit Act Amendments of 1979 - Title I: Federal Land Banks and Associations - Amends the Farm Credit Act of 1971 to authorize any Federal land bank, under the supervision of the Farm Credit Administration, to: (1) participate in loans with other Farm Credit System institutions (i.e., Federal land banks, Federal land bank associations, Federal intermediate credit banks, production credit associations, and banks for cooperatives); (2) participate in loans which the land banks are authorized to make with lenders which are not Farm Credit System institutions; (3) sell interests in loans to such lenders; (4) buy from and sell to Farm Credit System institutions interests in loans, other extended financial assistance, and nonvoting stock; (5) make other investments; (6) accept contributions to their capital from Federal land bank associations; (7) enter into agreements with other Farm Credit System institutions to share loan and other losses; (8) issue nonvoting stock to borrowers as a patronage refund; and (9) make or participate with other lenders in long-term real estate mortgage loans not exceeding 85 percent of the appraised value of the real estate security. Makes producers and harvesters of aquatic products eligible for Federal land bank services. Authorizes Federal land bank associations to make capital contributions to a Federal land bank. States that a member of a Federal land bank association need not make the required purchases of land stock with respect to that part of a loan derived from a lender which is not a Farm Credit System institution. Authorizes the Federal land bank associations to pay dividends on a differential basis between different classes and issues of stock and participation certificates corresponding to the value of such classes and issues to the capital or earnings of the Federal land bank in its district. Permits the Federal land bank associations to agree to share loan and other losses with other Farm Credit System institutions. Title II: Federal Intermediate Credit Banks and Production Credit Associations - Authorizes the Federal Intermediate Credit Banks, subject to the supervision of the Farm Credit Administration, to: (1) buy from and sell to Farm Credit System institutions interests in loans, other extended financial assistance and nonvoting stock; (2) make other investments; (3) agree to share loan and other losses with other Farm Credit System institutions; (4) participate with other Farm Credit System institutions in making loans; and (5) issue nonvoting stock to such institutions. Authorizes the Federal intermediate credit banks to discount for, or purchase from other financial institutions loans made to producers and harvesters of aquatic products. Permits any Federal intermediate credit bank to transfer more than 2.5 percent of its net earnings after expenses to its allocated reserve account (presently, not more than 25 percent of such earnings may be transferred to this account). Authorizes each production credit association, subject to the supervision of the intermediate credit bank in its district and the Farm Credit Administration, to: (1) buy from and sell to any bank in the Farm Credit System interests in loans, other financial assistance extended, and nonvoting stock; (2) participate in loans with other Farm Credit System institutions; (3) agree to share loan and other losses with other Farm Credit System Institutions; (4) issue participation certificates to eligible borrowers in lieu of nonvoting stock; and (5) issue participation certificates or nonvoting stock to any financial institution outside the Farm Credit System with which the association participates in a loan in satisfaction of the requirement that a borrower own such stock or participation certificates. Requires a borrower to own only that amount of stock or participation certificates which is proportionate to that portion of a loan retained by a production credit association when it participates with another lender in making a loan. Authorizes the production credit association to extend loan assistance to bona fide farmers, ranchers, and producers and harvesters of aquatic products for basic processing and marketing directly related to the borrower's operations. Title III: Banks and Cooperatives - Empowers each bank for cooperatives, subject to the supervision of the Farm Credit Administration, to: (1) participate with other Farm Credit System institutions in making loans; (2) deposit its securities and current funds with any domestic or foreign financial organization (presently, such deposits must be made at a member bank in the Federal Reserve System); (3) buy and sell bankers acceptances which are obligations of member banks in the Federal Reserve System; (4) buy and sell other obligations including those which arise in the course of transactions which the bank has assisted through loans; (5) buy from and sell to Farm Credit System institutions interests in loans, other financial assistance extended and nonvoting stock; (6) make other investments; (7) invest in foreign and domestic business entities to facilitate the obtaining of credit information and the performance of services related to international transactions; (8) maintain credit balances to assist in the transfer of funds between parties to authorized transactions; (9) agree to share loan and other losses with other Farm Credit System institutions; and (10) issue participation certificates to parties who may not be issued voting stock. Requires all participation certificates, voting and nonvoting stock issued by the banks for cooperatives to be retired at par value. Authorizes the banks for cooperative to: (1) offer a currency exchange for eligible cooperative associations; and (2) extend loans, loan participation commitments, and other technical and financial assistance to any domestic or foreign party in which a member cooperative has an ownership interest or which engages with the cooperative in dealings in agricultural or aquatic products, farm supplies or the lease of property, provided such assistance substantially benefits the member cooperative. Enables cooperatives solely engaged in furnishing aquatic business services to borrow from the banks for cooperatives. Reduces the degree of ownership in a cooperative which must be held by farmers, producers or harvesters of aquatic products, or other cooperative associations in order to make such a cooperative eligible to borrow from a bank for cooperatives. Requires a bank for cooperatives to retire any equity held by a borrower in default or dissolution at fair market value not to exceed the par value of the equity interest of the borrower. Prohibits the retirement or cancellation of such an equity interest if the bank's capital structure would be adversely affected. Permits each bank for cooperatives to transfer more than 25 percent of its net annual savings to a surplus account. Authorizes the banks for cooperatives to pay patronage refunds to borrowers in the form of participation certificates. Title IV: Provisions Applicable to Two or More Classes of Institutions of the System - Declares that interest rates established by the Farm Credit Administration for loans made by Farm Credit System institutions shall preempt any interest rate limitation imposed by State law. States that when two or more Farm Credit System institutions participate in a loan as authorized by this Act, the terms of such loan shall be those agreed upon by the institutions. Requires that such factors as borrower eligibility, membership, term, amount, loan security and purchase of stock or participation certificates by the borrower are to be governed by the provisions of law applicable to the institution originating the loan. Exempts credit transactions of Farm Credit System institutions from the provisions of any State statute or any other law or regulation which impose, with regard to a credit transaction, any duty or requirement which had been imposed by the Truth in Lending Act before amendment. Authorizes the institutions of the Farm Credit System to organize corporations to perform non-lending functions and services which such institutions are authorized to perform. Empowers the Governor of the Farm Credit Administration to review and revise the charters of such corporations. States that such corporations shall be subject to supervision and examination by the Administration. Title V: District and Farm Credit Administration Organization - Revises the process for the election of farm credit district directors by reducing from three to two the number of nominees in the election poll. Establishes the rate of compensation for the Federal Farm Credit Board at the daily equivalent of the rate prescribed for grade GS-18 of the General Schedule. Authorizes the Board to fix the salary of the Governor of the Farm Credit Administration at any level not exceeding the maximum rate of basic pay in the Executive Schedule. Authorizes the Governor to appoint Deputy Governors to provide assistance in the functioning of the Farm Credit Administration. Exempts the Administration from provisions of Federal law relating to appointments in the competitive civil service, travel expenses, allowances, procurement, and property disposition. Credits employees of Farm Credit System institutions with specified leave and retirement benefits when they are transferred to Federal service in the Farm Credit Administration.
United States · United States Congress · 28 June 1979
Smaller Enterprise Regulatory Improvement Act - Amends the Small Business Act to require each Federal agency to publish semiannually an agenda of those rules which may be proposed during the upcoming six-month period affecting a substantial number of small business concerns and small organizations. Defines "small organizations" to include unincorporated businesses, sheltered workshops, nonprofit enterprises which are not dominant in their fields and such other groups and enterprises as each Federal agency shall establish by rule. Requires each published agenda to be transmitted to the Office of Advocacy of the Small Business Administration for comments. Directs each Federal agency to endeavor to provide notice of each agenda to affected small enterprises by means other than publication in the Federal Register. Directs each Federal agency to publish a written analysis prior to the issuance of any rule affecting a substantial number of small business concerns and organizations which considers: (1) the effect of such rule on small enterprises and competition; (2) whether an exemption could be provided such small enterprises; (3) whether lesser compliance standards could be adopted for small enterprises; and (4) the expected nature of reporting and recordkeeping requirements necessitated by such rule. Requires each Federal agency to issue a rule containing an exemption or differing compliance standards for such small business concerns and organizations if it is lawful, desirable, and feasible to do so. States that such small enterprises shall be given an opportunity to participate in agency rulemaking. Requires each agency to review its existing rules and prepare an analysis for purposes of eliminating those rules which are most burdensome to small businesses and organizations. Permits any agency to perform the analyses required by this Act in conjunction with any other analysis required by law. Declares that such other analysis shall not in itself satisfy the requirements of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 28 June 1979
Title I: The Foreign Service Act of 1979 - Foreign Service Act of 1979 - Sets forth the objectives and functions of the Foreign Service. Consolidates the authority of the Secretary of State to administer, direct, and regulate the Foreign Service. Authorizes the heads of other agencies, which utilize Foreign Service personnel, to exercise the Secretary's functions over such personnel in their agency, with specified exceptions. Provides for the appointment of a Director General to assist the Secretary in the management of the Foreign Service and an Inspector General. Directs the President to establish a Board of the Foreign Service to advise the Secretary. Stipulates that the Secretary shall appoint all members of the Foreign Service other than chiefs of mission, ambassador at large, career members of the Senior Foreign Service, or Foreign Service officers, which shall be appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Sets forth criteria for chief of mission, Senior Foreign Service and career appointments. Prohibits initially assigning a Foreign Service Officer candidate higher than class 4 of the Foreign Service Schedule unless specified conditions exist. Authorizes the Secretary to recall retired career Foreign Service members to any appropriate class. Stipulates that limited appointments not exceed five years. Provides for renewable limited appointments of family members of government personnel assigned abroad. Authorizes the commissioning as a diplomatic and/or consular officer of any member of the Foreign Service who is a U.S. citizen. Provides for the salaries of Chiefs of Mission and the Senior Foreign Service (the latter comparable to that for the Civil Service Senior Executive Service). Includes those employees, whose salaries are not otherwise provided for, under a Foreign Service Schedule similar to the Civil Service General Schedule. Authorizes the Secretary to assign each member appointed to the Foreign Service to an appropriate salary class, except those whose salary is determined by the terms of the appointment. Makes members of the Senior Foreign Service eligible for performance pay similar to that available to members of the Senior Executive Service. Provides for within-class salary increases under the Foreign Service Schedule unless the individual does not meet the class standards of performance. Authorizes the Secretary to grant additional increases in salary for meritorious service. Authorizes the Secretary to regulate local compensation plans for the guidance of all Federal agencies. Sets forth provisions concerning salaries of consular agents and compensation of foreign nationals imprisoned by reason of their employment by the U.S. Government. Provides extra compensation for: (1) temporary service as a principal officer; or (2) regular work substantially in excess of normal requirements. Directs the Secretary to classify all positions to be occupied by members of the Foreign Service. Permits such positions to be filled by personnel of other Federal agencies. Authorizes the Secretary to assign members of the Foreign Service to non-Foreign Service positions. Provides that career personnel of the Foreign Service shall be expected to serve abroad for substantial portions of their careers. Requires all promotions of members of the Senior Foreign Service or under the Foreign Service Schedule to be based on the recommendations and rankings of selection boards. Sets forth the criteria for promotion into the Senior Foreign Service. Prescribes the basis for selection board review. Authorizes the Secretary to make a promotion or grant an award of performance pay or salary increase on the recommendations of other specified boards. Authorizes the Secretary to prescribe the maximum time during which Senior Foreign Service members, Foreign Service officers, and other designated Foreign Service personnel may remain in a salary class without a promotion. Permits limited extensions of career appointments in the case of those whose maximum time in class expires. Stipulates that a member shall be retired from the Foreign Service if such member fails to meet prescribed standards of performance. Provides retirement benefits for those who must retire. Stipulates that the exclusive administrative procedure for challenging a separation for cause from the Foreign Service is before the Foreign Grievance Board. Sets forth provisions concerning termination of limited and temporary appointments and of consular agents and foreign national employees. Directs the Secretary to operate the Foreign Service Institute and to provide training and counseling to members of the Foreign Service and their families. Requires the Secretary to establish foreign language proficiency requirements for Foreign Service members assigned abroad. Sets forth provisions concerning the Foreign Service Retirement and Disability System. Requires the consent of a spouse who has resided with a member for ten years or more before the member participant may waive or reduce the survivor's annuity. Gives credit for annuity purposes for periods of internment of persons of Japanese ancestry during World War II. Permits an annuitant to assign amounts from the annuity. Directs the Secretary to make payments, otherwise due an annuitant, to another person pursuant to a divorce decree or court-approved property settlement. Sets forth provisions concerning travel expenses, health care benefits, and representation allowances. Sets forth labor-management provisions applicable to all members of Foreign Service, including former members, but excluding management officials, confidential employees, consular agents, and strikers, in the Department of State, International Communication Agency, and the International Development Cooperation Agency. Authorizes the President to exclude other offices or posts for national security purposes or in emergency situations. Sets forth labor and management rights. Establishes the Foreign Service Labor Relations Board to supervise representation elections, certify exclusive bargaining agents, and resolve complaints of unfair labor practices. Provides for judicial review and enforcement of the Board's actions. Establishes a Foreign Service Impasse Disputes Panel to assist in resolving negotiating impasses. Stipulates that the Department shall constitute a single worldwide bargaining unit. Sets forth the duties and rights of the exclusive representative. Establishes a grievance procedure for disputes arising out of the implementation of collective bargaining agreements. Defines unfair labor practices. Requires labor organizations to meet certain standards of conduct. Provides for union dues and use of official time. Sets forth provisions regarding the grievance procedure. Stipulates that members of a bargaining unit may be represented only by the exclusive representative. Permits the Department and the exclusive representative to negotiate certain aspects of the grievance procedure. Establishes the Foreign Service Grievance Board to resolve grievances. Requires the Foreign Service to be administered in conformity with the Civil Service and other government systems with regard to personnel and retirement. Gives the Secretary exclusive authority over specific Foreign Service functions. Title II: Transition, Amendments to Other Laws, Repeals and Miscellaneous Provisions - Directs the Secretary to convert present members of the Foreign Service, who are available for assignment abroad, to the appropriate classes in the Foreign Service Schedule. Permits Foreign Service officers and Foreign Service Reserve officers, with class 2 or higher appointments and available for world-wide assignment, to request appointment to the Senior Foreign Service. Requires those eligible, who do not elect to enter the Senior Foreign Service, to retire within three years. Requires the conversion of present members of the Foreign Service, who are not available for world-wide assignment, to the Civil Service in a comparable grade. Stipulates that a conversion shall not cause any reduction in the individual's class, grade, or salary. Permits continued participation in the Foreign Service Retirement and Disability System by those converted to the Civil Service . Amends the Act providing certain basic authority for the Department of State to add provisions, presently found in the Foreign Service Act of 1946, concerning: (1) gifts; (2) attorneys; (3) family employment opportunities; (4) vehicle use; (5) educational facilities; (6) malpractice protection; and (7) services to post employees. Amends the Peace Corps Act, the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, and the Arms Control and Disarmament Act to conform to this Act. Permits the extension or renewal of limited appointments of Foreign Service personnel for the Arms Control and Disarmament Agency. Includes Ambassadors at Large within level II of the Executive Schedule. Amends Civil Service provisions allowing attorney fees to be awarded in unfair labor practice and grievance proceedings to include Foreign Service personnel within such coverage. Exempts members of the Senior Foreign Service from limitations on accumulated leave. Repeals specified provisions of the Foreign Service Act of 1946, the Foreign Relations Authorization Acts, Fiscal Years 1979, 1978, and 1977, the Department of State Appropriations Authorization Act of 1973, the Act establishing a Foreign Service Information Officer Corps, the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, the Peace Corps Act, and the International Development and Food Assistance Act of 1977, which are superseded by this Act. Makes the provisions of this Act severable. Continues the effectiveness of actions taken under laws superseded by this Act. Requires the Secretary of State to report to Congress concerning compatibility among agencies, utilizing the Foreign Service personnel system.
United States · United States Congress · 27 June 1979
Capital Cost Recovery Act of 1979 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to revise the method for determining useful lives of business assets for purposes of computing allowable depreciation deductions. Replaces the asset depreciation range (ADR) method with a schedule of capital cost recovery periods for three classes of business property. Establishes capital cost recovery periods for the following classes of business property: (1) buildings and their structural components, ten years; (2) tangible property, five years; and (3) automobiles, taxis, and light-duty trucks (up to $100,000), three years. Allows a ten percent investment tax credit for buildings and tangible property, and a six percent credit for automobiles, taxis, and light duty trucks. Requires the recapture of depreciation amounts and investment tax credit amounts applicable to assets which are sold or otherwise disposed of prior to the expiration of the capital cost recovery period. Permits taxpayer to deduct less than the full allowance for capital cost recovery in any taxable year. Permits a carryover to succeeding taxable years of any unused depreciation amounts. Disqualifies capital cost recovery property from the allowance for first year depreciation. Treats amounts claimed as the capital cost recovery of noncorporate lessors as an item of tax preference for purposes of the minimum tax. Adopts as an accounting practice the "half year convention" under which investments eligible for capital cost recovery treatment or the investment tax credit which are made at any time during the taxable year are deemed to be made in the middle of such year.
United States · United States Congress · 21 June 1979
Amends the Powerplant and Industrial Fuel Use Act of 1978 to permit local distribution companies to provide natural gas service to residential customers for use in outdoor lighting fixtures installed before the enactment of such Act.
United States · United States Congress · 6 June 1979
Underutilized Species Development Act of 1979 - Allows any citizen of the United States to apply to the Secretary of the Department in which the National Marine Fisheries Service is located for approval of an underutilized specie development plan. Authorizes the Secretary to approve such plan if it is determined that it will facilitate the development of an underutilized specie or species. Subjects any vessels used in the training of fishermen and crew pursuant to an underutilized specie development plan and which operates in the fisheries of the United States within the territorial zone and lands any catch in the United States to specified terms and conditions. Prohibits the Secretary from approving: (1) any plan where its approval would result in the applicant and its affiliates having in effect underutilized specie development plans pursuant to which training vessels would harvest a catch equal to more than 20 percent of the total allowable level of foreign fishing established for any specie at the time of such application; or (2) any plan that would result in there being in effect plans pursuant to which training vessels would harvest a catch equal to more than 50 percent of the total allowable level of foreign fishing established for any specie at the time of such application. Declares that fish harvested by a training vessel shall be deemed fish harvested by United States vessels and the total allowable level of foreign fishing shall be reduced accordingly.
United States · United States Congress · 5 June 1979
Recreational Boating Safety and Facilities Improvement Act of 1979 - Amends the Federal Boat Safety Act of 1971 to include in the definitions of the terms "United States" and "State" the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas, the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, and any other territory or possession over which the United States has jurisdiction. Directs the Secretary of the Department in which the Coast Guard is operating to implement and administer a national recreational boating safety and facilities improvement program. Authorizes the Secretary to allocate funds to States for accepted State recreational boating safety and facilities improvement programs if sufficient State matching funds are available. Directs the Secretary to accept State programs that include: (1) an approved vessel numbering system; (2) a cooperative boating safety assistance program with the Coast Guard; (3) sufficient patrol to enforce applicable State laws; (4) boating safety education; (5) a State agency to implement or coordinate the program and report to the Secretary; and (6) facilities improvement. Sets forth formulas for the allocation of funds among the States. Establishes in the Treasury a National Recreational Boating Safety and Facilities Improvement Fund from which the Secretary may allocate funds for accepted State programs. Authorizes appropriations for such State programs of $30,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1981 through 1984. Amends the Highway Revenue Act of 1956 to direct the Secretary of the Treasury to transfer certain amounts from the taxes received from special motor fuels and gasoline used in motorboats to the National Recreational Boating Safety and Facilities Improvement Fund.
United States · United States Congress · 5 June 1979
Congratulates the men and women of the Apollo program upon the tenth anniversary of the first manned landing on the Moon and requests the President to designate the period of July 16 through July 24, 1979, as "United States Space Observance" in honor of such event.
United States · United States Congress · 23 May 1979
Amends the Agricultural Act of 1949 to establish the crop production loan level for the 1980 and 1981 crops of upland cotton at not less than the loan level established for the 1979 crop. Specifies formulas for the determination of prevented planting payments for cotton and feed grains where it is determined that planting of an acreage of either cotton or feed grains was prevented and that a nonconserving crop was planted on such acreage. Prohibits more than one disaster payment on the same acreage in the same year. Makes eligible for 1978 crop disaster payments certain cotton producers who were otherwise eligible for such payments, but who were deemed ineligible for failure to comply with the set-aside requirement of the 1978 crop feed grain program. Conditions such special eligibility on a determination that any such producer planted his 1978 crop of feed grains prior to the official announcement of the 1978 set-aside requirement and notice that eligibility for 1978 crop cotton payments and loans would be conditioned on compliance with such set-aside requirement. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to make available a voluntary diversion program for the 1979 crop of upland cotton of payments for the reduction of cotton acreage by not less than ten percent nor more than 20 percent of the 1979 cotton acreage considered planted on the farm (excluding any acreage on which another nonconserving crop is planted).
United States · United States Congress · 10 May 1979
Title I: Export Administration - Export Administration Act Amendments of 1979 - Amends the Export Administration Act of 1969 to repeal provisions concerning the control and monitoring of exports and the information to be provided exporters. Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to issue validated, qualified general, general, or other export licenses depending on the circumstances. Requires the Secretary to maintain a commodity control list of goods or technology subject to export control. Authorizes the President, through the Secretary, to restrict exports of goods or technology which would be detrimental to U.S. military security, by means of export licenses. Requires the Secretary to publicize the imposition of such controls. Stipulates that U.S. policy concerning export controls and individual countries shall not be based exclusively on the country's Communist or non-Communist status, but shall take into account various factors. Directs the Secretary to maintain, as part of the commodity control list, a list of goods or technology subject to export controls to be revised periodically. Directs the Secretary of Defense to develop a list of military critical technologies, emphasizing goods currently not possessed by countries subject to export controls, which would permit a major advance of such countries weapons systems. Specifies the conditions under which the Secretary of Commerce may require each type of export license. Encourages the use of a qualified general license to the maximum extent possible. Requires the Secretary of Commerce to review periodically the availability outside the United States of goods or technology which require a validated export license and to make certain adjustments. Requires the Secretary to establish a system of automatic annual increases in the performance levels of goods and technology required to have validated and qualified licenses in order to remove restrictions on those goods and technologies which are no longer detrimental to U.S. military security. Requires the Secretary to appoint technical advisory committees to advise the Secretary concerning export controls under this Act at the request of a substantial segment of any industry. Directs the President to enter into negotiations with the governments participating in the Coordinating Committee of the Consultative Group concerning export controls. Exempts countries participating in the Committee and receiving goods or technology subject to export controls from conditions limiting the further export of such goods. Requires U.S. citizens, who enter into agreements to export unpublished technical data to countries to which exports are restricted for national security purposes, to report such agreements to the Secretary. Directs the Secretary of State to be responsible for conducting negotiations with other countries to restrict the export of goods and technology detrimental to U.S. security. Authorizes the President, through the Secretary, to restrict the exportation of goods or technology necessary: (1) to further significantly U.S. foreign policy or international responsibilities; (2) to secure the removal of restrictions on access to supplies; or (3) to encourage other countries to prevent the use of their territories or resources to aid international terrorism. Gives the Secretary of State the right to review any export license and appeal any decision to the President. Sets forth the criteria for such controls. Requires consultation with the industry concerned and with Congress (giving Congress an opportunity to veto such control) before imposing such controls. Requires the President to first attempt to secure the objectives of this Act through diplomatic means. Excludes from such controls, goods and technology which would help meet basic human needs, unless the President imposes restrictions pursuant to the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. Requires the Secretary of Commerce to establish and maintain a list of goods subject to export controls for foreign policy purposes as part of the commodity control list. Sets forth the procedure for processing validated and qualified general export license applications. Authorizes the Secretary of Defense to review any proposed exports to countries to which exports are controlled for national security purposes. Permits the Secretary of Commerce to extend the prescribed time limitations for export license applications. Authorizes applicants for export licenses to file appeals with the Secretary and bring court actions. Directs the President to allocate export licenses using various factors, including the extent other countries engage in equitable trade practices with the United States in times of short supply. Directs the Secretary to monitor exports which may have a serious adverse impact on the domestic economy. Exempts oil which is exchanged with an adjacent foreign state resulting in lower prices for U.S. consumers from the prohibition against exporting domestically produced crude oil. Repeals the two year limitation on such prohibition. Requires congressional approval before oil subject to such prohibition may be exported. Authorizes the President to export oil otherwise prohibited, pursuant to an oil supply agreement. Repeals the prohibition against exports to Uganda. Exempts, under specified circumstances, exportations pursuant to barter agreements from quantitative limitations imposed on exports to protect the domestic economy. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to require a validated license for the export of unprocessed western red cedar logs. Specifies quotas for the export of such logs. Declares standard aircraft equipment, to be exported to countries other than controlled countries, subject to export controls under the Export Administration Act of 1969. Stipulates that neither the foreign policy controls nor the national security controls shall supersede control procedures established pursuant to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Act of 1978. Increases the penalties for violating such Act. Prohibits the disclosure of specified information about export transactions. Requires the Secretary to submit annual reports to Congress concerning the administration of this Act. Authorizes the President and the Secretary to issue any necessary rules and regulations. Authorizes appropriations through fiscal year 1981 to carry out the purposes of this Act. Terminates authority under this Act on September 30, 1983. Makes certain technical amendments to conform to the provisions of this Act. Title II: International Investment Survey Act - Amends the International Investment Survey Act of 1976 to authorize appropriations for such Act through fiscal year 1981.
United States · United States Congress · 8 May 1979
Title I: Authorizations and Miscellaneous Amendments - Amends the Small Business Act to authorize appropriations for specified programs and expenses of the Small Business Administration. States that all appropriations, whether specifically or generally authorized, shall remain available until expended. Authorizes the Administration to make disaster loans available to small business concerns affected by a shortage of energy-producing resources caused by a strike, boycott, or embargo unless such strike, boycott or embargo is directly against such small business concern. Makes specified low-interest loans available under the Small Business Act until October 1, 1982, for the relief of small business concerns affected by disasters occurring on or after October 1, 1978. Provides loans bearing interest at three percent for amounts not exceeding $55,000, for the repair or replacement of a principal residence or personal property. Makes the following disaster loans available under the Small Business Act and the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act: (1) loans bearing interest at three percent on amounts for the repair or replacement of property damaged or destroyed if the applicant is unable to obtain sufficient credit elsewhere; and (2) loans bearing interest at the current average market yield on outstanding marketable obligations of the United States with remaining periods to maturity comparable to the average maturities of such loans, plus not to exceed one percent if the applicant is able to obtain credit elsewhere. Stipulates that the total amount outstanding and committed to any one borrower shall not exceed $500,000. Amends the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 to repeal the authority of the Administration to invest sums from the revolving fund for surety bond guarantees in Treasury bonds, obligations, and other guaranteed debt securities. Authorizes such investments from the revolving fund for qualified contract guarantees. Title II: Small Business Development Centers - Authorizes the Small Business Administration to make grants to States, State agencies, regional entities, State- chartered development credit corporations, and institutions of higher learning to assist in establishing Small Business Development Centers. Requires such grants to be matched in equal amounts by funds from non-Federal sources. Establishes additional restrictions on such grants for fiscal years 1979 through 1982. States that Small Business Development Centers shall have a full-time staff, business and technology analysts, information and professional specialists, and access to laboratory and engineering facilities. Requires such Centers to provide small businesses with business and technology counseling, information on government regulations, library services, and comprehensive studies and surveys. Directs federally funded laboratories and innovation centers to cooperate with the Small Business Development Centers. Requires the Administrator of the Small Business Administration to appoint a Deputy Associate Administrator for Management and Technical Assistance to administer the Small Business Development Center program. Establishes a National Small Business Development Center Advisory Board consisting of nine civilian members. Sets forth provisions governing the appointment of members, a Chairman, meetings, and compensation of the Board. Directs the Small Business Administration to conduct an evaluation of the Development Center program and to submit a report to the appropriate committees of Congress within three years. Title III: White House Conference on Small Business - White House Conference on Small Business Act - Directs the President to convene a White House Conference on Small Business by June 30, 1980, to identify the problems of small business concerns and to make recommendations for executive and legislative action. Requires the Conference to submit a report to the President and the Congress within one year of the date it convenes. Requires the Small Business Administration to report to the Congress within three years on the status and implementation of the findings and recommendations of the Conference. Makes such sums as are appropriated to carry out the provisions of this Act available until expended.
United States · United States Congress · 4 May 1979
Amends the Agricultural Act of 1949 to provide that, if it is determined that planting of an acreage of upland cotton was prevented and that a nonconserving crop was planted, the prevented planting payment shall be the amount by which the sum calculated according to the present formula exceeds the market value of the nonconserving crop harvested from such acreage, thus reducing the Government's payment rate.
United States · United States Congress · 30 April 1979
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to exclude from gross income up to $500 ($1,000 for married individuals filing jointly) of the interest earned on savings accounts in a bank, savings and loan association, or credit union. Requires a gradual phase-in of the maximum amount of the exclusion between 1980 and 1984.
United States · United States Congress · 26 April 1979
Amends the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to prohibit the employment of blind persons, or persons with impaired sight, at less than the applicable minimum wage under such Act.
United States · United States Congress · 25 April 1979
Declares that Zimbabwe Rhodesia has: (1) demonstrated its willingness to negotiate in good faith at an all parties conference; and (2) approved through elections the transfer of power to a black majority government. Expresses the sense of Congress that the President: (1) should determine that Zimbabwe Rhodesia is in substantial compliance with the International Security Assistance Act of 1978; (2) should not enforce sanctions against Zimbabwe Rhodesia; and (3) should establish diplomatic relations with Zimbabwe Rhodesia.
United States · United States Congress · 24 April 1979
Stipulates that the payment of retired or retainer pay which would otherwise be made to a member of the armed forces shall be paid by the Secretary concerned to another person to the extent provided for in the terms of any court decree of divorce, annulment, or legal separation.
United States · United States Congress · 24 April 1979
Permits any use, including aerial application, of the pesticide mirex on fire ants or imported fire ants during the calendar years 1979 and 1980, notwithstanding provisions of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act to the contrary. Subjects such use to Environmental Protection Agency restrictions in effect on October 1, 1977 (excepting only period of use restrictions). Prohibits the Agency from altering the terms of any such restrictions.
United States · United States Congress · 10 April 1979
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to tax income of married individuals filing tax returns separate from their spouses at the same rates applicable to unmarried individuals.
United States · United States Congress · 10 April 1979
Soft Drink Interbrand Competition Act - Declares that exclusive territorial arrangements made as a part of a licensing agreement for the manufacture, distribution, or sale of a trademarked soft drink product are lawful under the antitrust laws provided such product is in substantial and effective competition with other products of the same general class. Prohibits recovery in private actions under the Clayton Act based on territorial provisions in a trademark licensing agreement prior to a final determination that such provisions are unlawful.
United States · United States Congress · 10 April 1979
Declares that it is the sense of the House of Representatives that the transfer of the Forest Service and the Farmers Home Administration business and industry programs from the Department of Agriculture is unacceptable, and that any reorganization proposal which would diminish the Department's resources is unacceptable.
United States · United States Congress · 10 April 1979
Declares the sense of Congress that the Constitution of the United States does not preclude periods of silence (for private prayer, meditation, contemplation, or introspection) in the public schools to be used at the discretion of individual students.
United States · United States Congress · 9 April 1979
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide that income received by a mutual or cooperative electric company from nonmember electric companies for providing electric energy to such nonmember companies shall not be taken into account in determining the tax-exempt status of the mutual or cooperative electric company. Provides that income received by a mutual or cooperative telephone or electric company for services to customers of rural telephone or electric companies, and income received from the rental or sale of communications or power facilities, shall not be subject to the tax on unrelated business income.
United States · United States Congress · 9 April 1979
Flood Control Procedure Reform Act of 1979 - Establishes a flood control survey and engineering fund in the U.S. Treasury. Authorizes the Secretary of the Army, through the Chief of Engineers, to use such fund for surveys or other planning of authorized flood control projects. Authorizes appropriations as necessary for such fund. Provides for the authorization of flood control projects by resolution of the House Committee on Public Works and Transportation and the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works. Amends the Flood Control Act of 1970 to permit the Secretary to enter into agreements with States for water resources projects even if such agreements are contingent upon the State legislative appropriation process.
United States · United States Congress · 9 April 1979
Amends the Agricultural Act of 1949 to establish the crop production loan level for the 1980 and 1981 crops of upland cotton at not less than the loan level established for the 1979 crop. Makes eligible for 1978 crop disaster payments certain cotton producers who where otherwise eligible for such payments, but who were deemed ineligible for failure to comply with the set-aside requirement of the 1978 crop feed grain program. Conditions such special eligibility on a determination that any such producer planted his 1978 crop of feed grains prior to the official announcement of the 1978 set-aside requirement and notice that eligibility for 1978 crop cotton payments and loans would be conditioned on compliance with such set-aside requirement. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to make available a voluntary diversion program for the 1979 crop of upland cotton of payments for the reduction of cotton acreage by not less than ten percent nor more than 20 percent of the 1978 cotton acreage considered planted on the farm (including diverted acreage).
United States · United States Congress · 5 April 1979
Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to prohibit the Secretary of Transportation or the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration from issuing any rule, regulation, or order relating to specified aspects of the control of navigable airspace.
United States · United States Congress · 5 April 1979
Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to limit the authority of the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration with respect to designating positive control airspace and terminal control areas.
United States · United States Congress · 4 April 1979
Entitles nonprofit service clubs to the reduced postage rates for third-class mail currently in effect for the mail matter of qualified nonprofit organizations.
United States · United States Congress · 2 April 1979
Title I: Department of State - Department of State Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 1980 and 1981 - Authorizes appropriations through fiscal year 1981 for the Department of State to be used for: (1) the administration of foreign affairs; (2) international organizations and conferences; (3) international commissions; (4) migration and refugee assistance (with $25,000,000 earmarked for resettling refugees in Israel); (5) bilateral science and technology agreements; and (6) salary increases and currency fluctuations. Requires the United States to reduce its contribution to the United Nations by a specified percent of the amount budgeted by the United Nations for certain Palestinian organizations. Permits the use of up to ten percent of the authorized appropriations for the State Department to be shifted from one account to another. Amends the Foreign Service Act of 1946 to express the sense of Congress that Foreign Service officers assigned abroad be familiar with the local language. Title II: International Communication Agency - International Communication Agency Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 1980 and 1981 - Authorizes appropriations through fiscal year 1981 for the International Communication Agency (ICA). Repeals the loyalty investigations required by the United States Information and Educational Exchange Act of 1948 and the Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange Act of 1961. Amends the United States Information and Educational Exchange Act of 1948 to give the Director of the ICA, as well as the Secretary of State, the authority to employ aliens without regard to the civil service and classification laws. Amends the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949 to exempt the Director of ICA from provisions concerning the management and disposal of government property with respect to the furnishing of facilities in foreign countries and reception centers in the United States. Amends the Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange Act of 1961 to authorize the Director to provide services within the United States in connection with exchange activities when such services are requested and reimbursed by other departments or agencies. Amends the United States Information and Educational Exchange Act of 1948 to permit the Director to approve the acquisition, leasing, and improving of real property without regard to provisions requiring the Attorney General's approval of the title. Redesignates the United States Advisory Commission on International Communication, Cultural and Educational Affairs as the United States Advisory Commission on Public Diplomacy. Provides for the appointment of a Staff Director of such Commission. Revises the administrative authority of the Secretary of State. Authorizes additional appropriations for the ICA to cover salary increases and currency fluctuations. Authorizes the public distribution within the United States of the film, "Aspen," and the "English Teaching Forum." Title III: Board for International Broadcasting - Board for International Broadcasting Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 1980 and 1981 - Amends the Board for International Broadcasting Act of 1973 to authorize appropriations through fiscal year 1981. Authorizes the appropriation of additional amounts for RFE/RL, Incorporated, to cover currency fluctuations. Title IV: Technical Provisions - Amends an Act to establish a Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe to limit to $6,000 the amount the Commission may use for official reception and representational expenses. Stipulates that any statutory reference to the Committee on International Relations of the House of Representatives shall be deemed a reference to the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives.
United States · United States Congress · 29 March 1979
Expresses the disapproval of the House of Representatives with respect to the Secretary of Transportation's recommendations designating the basic route system for the National Railroad Passenger Corporation as submitted to the Congress on January 31, 1979.
United States · United States Congress · 28 March 1979
Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act of 1979 - Establishes a program of financial and technical assistance to States for the development, revision, and implementation of fish an wildlife conservation plans and for implementation of nongame fish and wildlife conservation actions. Stipulates that the Secretary of the Interior may not disapprove any such plans or actions for specified reasons unless implementation would threaten the natural stability or continued viability of animals concerned. Makes States eligible for matching funds under the existing fish and wildlife restoration programs if their plans are approved by the Secretary. Directs the Secretary to reimburse eligible States for costs incurred in connection with conservation plans and actions. States that nothing in this Act shall effect State regulation of fish and wildlife or the authority of the Secretary of Agriculture to control predatory or wild animals. Prohibits the use of funds made available to States to acquire land except from willing sellers.
United States · United States Congress · 28 March 1979
Directs the Secretary of the Interior to carry out a plan for the completion, within five years, of the Natchez Trace Parkway from Natchez, Mississippi, to Nashville, Tennessee. Authorizes appropriations of up to $180,000,000 to complete such parkway.
![Official portrait of Rep. Bowen, David R. [D-MS-2]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/b000682_200.jpg)