United States · United States Congress · 24 June 1976
Amends rule XXXII of the Rules of the House of Representatives to allow specified present and former employees and Members of the House to enter the Hall of the House and rooms leading thereto. Provides that such persons shall not be admitted if they have any direct personal or pecuniary interest in any legislative measure coming up for consideration in the House.
United States · United States Congress · 23 June 1976
Establishes in the House of Representatives a select committee to be known as the Select Committee on Narcotics Abuse and Control. Provides that the select committee shall conduct a continuing comprehensive study and review of the problems of narcotics abuse and control and shall review any recommendations made by the President, or by any department or agency of the executive branch of the Federal Government, relating to programs or policies affecting narcotics abuse or control. Authorizes the select committee to conduct field investigations or inspections. Requires the select committee to submit an annual report to the House which shall include a summary of the activities of the select committee during the calendar year to which such report applies.
United States · United States Congress · 10 June 1976
Aircraft Noise Reduction and Airport Protection Act - Directs the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration to promulgate regulations prescribing noise standards for the operation of civil subsonic turbojet powered aircraft above a specified weight at any airport within the United States. States that such regulations shall provide for requirements of partial compliance at intervals prior to the end of a five-year period after the enactment of this Act. Prohibits the operation of aircraft which do not meet such requirements at the end of such five-year period. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to publish a list of the operators of noncomplying aircraft. Authorizes grants to such individuals to retrofit or replace such noncomplying aircraft. Authorizes appropriations out of the Airport and Airway Trust Fund of $300,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 1977, 1978, 1979, and 1980 to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 2 June 1976
Extends the delimiting period in the case of any eligible veteran who is pursuing, during his or her tenth year of eligibility, a program of education. Terminates such extension on whichever of the following dates first occurs: (1) the date on which the veteran completes, or ceases to pursue, the program he was pursuing in his tenth year of eligibility; or (2) the last day of the 11-year period beginning on the date of his discharge from active duty. (Adds 38 U.S.C. 1662(e))
United States · United States Congress · 2 June 1976
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the United States Postal Service shall not close or suspend the operation of any post offices, unless there is a clear and compelling need to do so. Encourages the service to continue cost-cutting programs which do not affect levels of service.
United States · United States Congress · 18 May 1976
Amends the Federal Reserve Act to permit the payment of interest on demand deposits which consist of public funds of the United States or of a State or political subdivision or instrumentality of a State.
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 1976
Requires that every public contract under the Davis-Bacon Act shall contain a provision that the contractor must notify the contracting agency when ever a strike occurs involving employees who are engaged in carrying out such contract. Directs the head of the agency involved to terminate any contract if he determines that the contractor has replaced, or attempted to replace, any employee participating in such a strike.
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 1976
Requires that every contract within the scope of the Service Contract Act of 1965 shall contain a provision requiring that in the case of a work stoppage which is directly related to a labor dispute between the contractor and the employees carrying out the contract, the contractor and the collective bargaining representative shall immediately notify the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service that the work stoppage has occured. Directs the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service to appoint a fact finding panel within two days after receiving such notice. Requires the panel to publish, within five days, its findings on whether the work stoppage is beyond the control of the contractor and was caused without his fault. States that if the panel finds the contractor at fault, the head of the Federal agency which is a party to the contract involved may not make further progress payments on the contract, or exercise any option which would have the effect of increasing the amount payable to the contractor, or the amount of service to be acquired from the contractor, until the dispute is settled. Permits termination of the contract if no collective bargaining agreement is signed within 45 days following the work stoppage.
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 1976
Requires that every public contract under the Walsh-Healey Act shall contain a provision that the contractor must notify the contracting agency whenever a strike occurs involving employees who are engaged in carrying out such contract. Directs the head of the agency involved to terminate any contract if he determines that the contractor has replaced, or attempted to replace, any employee participating in such a strike.
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 1976
Requires that every contract within the scope of the Walsh-Healey Act shall contain a provision requiring that in the case of a work stoppage which is directly related to a labor dispute between the contractor and the employees carrying out the contract, the contractor and the collective bargaining representative shall immediately notify the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service that the work stoppage has occured. Directs the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service to appoint a fact finding panel within two days after receiving such notice. Requires the panel to publish, within five days, its findings on whether the work stoppage is beyond the control of the contractor and was caused without his fault. States that if the panel finds the contractor at fault, the head of the Federal agency which is a party to the contract involved may not make further progress payments on the contract, or exercise any option which would have the effect of increasing the amount payable to the contractor, or the amount of services to be acquired from the contractor, until the dispute is settled. Permits termination of the contract if no collective bargaining agreement is signed within 45 days following the work stoppage.
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 1976
Requires that every public contract entered into by any branch of the Armed Forces under the Service Contract Act shall contain a provision that the contractor must notify the head of the branch of the Armed Forces involved whenever a strike occurs involving employees who are engaged in carrying out such contract. Directs the head of the Armed Forces involved to terminate any contract if he determines that the contractor has replaced, or attempted to replace, any employee participating in such a strike.
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 1976
Requires that every contract within the scope of the Davis-Bacon Act shall contain a provision requiring that in the case of a work stoppage which is directly related to a labor dispute between the contractor and the employees carrying out the contract, the contractor and the collective bargaining representative shall immediately notify the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service that the work stoppage has occured. Directs the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service to appoint a fact finding panel within two days after receiving such notice. Requires the panel to publish, within five days, its findings on whether the work stoppage is beyond the control of the contractor and was caused without his fault. States that if the panel finds the contractor at fault, the head of the Federal agency which is a party to the contract involved may not make further progress payments on the contract, or exercise any option which would have the effect of increasing the amount payable to the contractor, or the amount of services to be acquired from the contractor, until the dispute is settled. Permits termination of the contract if no collective bargaining agreement is signed within 45 days following the work stoppage.
United States · United States Congress · 6 May 1976
Amends the National Housing Act to authorize expenditures by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development for repair of major structural defects which create a serious danger to the life and safety of inhabitants of any one-, two-, three-, or four-family dwelling covered by any mortgage insured by the Federal Housing Administration.
United States · United States Congress · 6 May 1976
Authorizes the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs to make expenditures to correct serious structural defects in dwellings securing loans guaranteed or insured by the Administrator if the defect is one that existed on the date of issuance of the loan and is one that a proper inspection could reasonably be expected to disclose (presently, the dwellings must have been actually inspected by either the VA or FHA during construction). (Amends 38 U.S.C. 1827(a)).
United States · United States Congress · 5 May 1976
Title I: Authorizations and Limitations - Amends the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 to increase the appropriation for surety bond guarantees from $35,000,000 to $71,000,000. Increases from $6,000,000,000 to $8,000,000,000 the amount appropriated for the business loan and investment fund of the Small Business Administration. Increases from $450,000,000 to $525,000,000 the amount appropriated for economic opportunity loans. Increases the funds for Small Business Investment Companies from $725,000,000 to $1,100,000,000. Authorizes appropriations and sets program levels for various programs under the Small Business Act for fiscal years 1978 and 1979. Title II: Micellaneous Conforming and Technical Amendments - Requires that reports to the President and Congress concerning minority small businesses include: the proportion of loans and other assistance under this Act; the goals of the Administration for the next fiscal year with respect to such concerns; and recommendations for improving assistance. Title III: Amendments to Small Business Administration Loan Authority - Amends the Small Business Act to allow loans to be used for the financing of residential or commercial construction or rehabilitation for sale. States that no payments will be required of the small business while payments are being made by the Small Business Administration pursuant to the assumption of such business's obligation or while the Administration has suspended payment on its own loan. Limits the period of such assumption or suspension to five years. Sets the prerequisites for receiving the loan and the conditions for repayment of such loan. Provides for assistance to small business concerns which are engaged in the production of food or fiber, ranching, and raising of livestock, acquaculture and all other farming and agricultural related industries. Increases from $350,000 to $500,000 the limit on loans for regular businesses. Increases from $50,000 to $100,000 the limit for economic opportunity loans. Increases the limit for development company loans. Amends the Small Business Investment Act and the Small Business Act to state that no loans for plant acquisitions shall exceed specified time periods. Title IV: Amendments to Small Business Administration Disaster Loan Authority - Expands the coverage of disaster loans to situations which the Small Business Administration determines to be disasters and where no disaster has been declared upon the certification by the Governor of a State to the Small Business Administration that small business concerns have suffered economic injury as a result of such disaster and that financial assistance is not available on reasonable terms in the disaster-stricken area. Requires the President to undertake a comprehensive review of all Federal disaster loan authorities and to report to the Congress concerning the most effective and efficient delivery of disaster relief. States that the interest rate on the Administration's share of any loan made under this subsection shall not exceed three percent and in specified cases shall not be higher than two and three quarters percent. Title V: Certificate of Competency - Amends the elements to be considered in certification of any small business for the receipt or performance of a specific Government contract. Requires that final disposition of contract awards be made by the Administration. Describes the role of Government procurement officers and officers engaged in the sale and disposal of Federal property. Title VI: Financing of Pollution Control Facilities - Authorizes the Small Business Administration, whenever it determinizes that small business concerns are, or are likely to be, at an operational or financial disadvantage with other business concerns with respect to the planning, design or installation of pollution control facilities, or the obtaining the financing therefor, to guarantee the payment of rentals or other amounts due under qualified contracts. Provides that any such guarantee may be made or effected either directly or in cooperation with any qualified surety company or other qualified company through a participation agreement with such a company. Permits the Administration to fix a uniform annual fee for any guarantee issued under this title and to require that measures be followed in connection with the guarantee of rentals in order to minimize financial risk assumed by the guarantee. Creates a separate fund for guarantees within the Treasury for guarantees which shall be available to the Administrator without fiscal limitations as a revolving fund. Authorizes to be appropriated amounts sufficient to provide the Capital for such fund. Title VII: Chief Counsel for Advocacy - Creates within the Small Business Administration an Office of Advocacy. States the functions of such Office which include receipt of complaints, criticism, and suggestions concerning the policies and activities of the Administration and the resolution of problems concerning the relationship of the small business to the Federal Government. Requires the Office of Advocacy to report to the Congress and the President not later than six months after enactment of this title. Authorizes $1,000,000 to be appropriated to carry out the provisions of this title.
United States · United States Congress · 30 April 1976
Amends the Medicare program of the Social Security Act to authorize payment under the supplementary medical insurance program for specified diagnostic tests and physical examinations given for the detection of breast cancer.
United States · United States Congress · 29 April 1976
Earthquake Disaster Mitigation Act - Directs the Director of the Geological Survey to develop and carry out a program of research and implementation in the areas of tectonics, seismology, and geology, to include (1) development of a system for predicting earthquakes in the seismically active regions of the United States; (2) development and placement of instruments necessary to collect appropriate data; (3) seismicity studies throughout the United States; (4) evaluation of earthquake control methods; (5) zonation and microzonation for seismic risks of the entire United States; and (6) preparation of seismic risk analyses useful for emergency planning and community preparedness. Directs the Director of the National Science Foundation to develop and carry out a program of research and implementation in the areas of engineering, planning, and social sciences, to include (1) advancing basic earthquake engineering and earthquake mitigation research; (2) developing more accurate and reliable methods of earthquake engineering analysis for all types of structures and for a variety of ground conditions; (3) developing more reliable and economic methods of earthquake-resistant design and improved criteria for earthquake-resistant construction; (4) developing methods that enhance community preparedness for earthquakes; and (5) developing procedures for the rehabilitation of earthquake damaged areas. Requires the Director of the Geological Survey and the Director of the National Science Foundation to, jointly, (1) establish an advisory committee to review periodically the progress, implementation, and coordination of the earthquake mitigation program; (2) establish an information dissemination mechanism to make available information developed pursuant to this Act; (3) prepare an annual report to Congress describing the progress of the program; and (4) assist the States in carrying out their responsibilities under the Disaster Relief Act of 1974 by making readily available the results of research conducted pursuant to this Act. Authorizes the appropriation of $25,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1976-1985 to the Geological Survey to carry out its duties under this Act. Amends the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 to authorize the appropriation to the National Science Foundation of $15,000,000 for Fiscal Year 1976 and $25,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1977-1985 to carry out its duties under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 26 April 1976
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a deduction to individuals who rent their principal residences for a portion of the real property taxes paid or accrued by their landlord.
United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1976
Authorizes the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs to assist any veteran, who has a permanent and total service-connected disability due to the loss, or loss of use, of one arm and one leg, including but not limited to cases of hemiparaplegia, such as to preclude locomotion without the aid of braces, crutches, canes, or a wheelchair, in acquiring a suitable housing unit with special fixtures or moveable facilities made necessary by the nature of the veteran's disability, and necessary land therefor. (Amends 38 U.S.C. 801)
United States · United States Congress · 6 April 1976
Establishes in the House of Representatives the Select Committee on Nuclear Proliferation and Nuclear Export Policy. Directs the Committee to conduct a full and complete study of: (1) the threat of nuclear proliferation; (2) the present policies of the United States concerning nuclear proliferation; (3) the decisionmaking process within the executive branch on nuclear export policies; and (4) any related areas which the committee deems necessary to investigate and study to discharge its responsibilities. Directs the committee to report to the House as soon as practicable the results of its investigation and study, together with such recommendations as it deems advisable.
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1976
States that for the purpose of hiring senior citizen interns, each Member of the House of Representatives shall have available annually a gross allowances of $600. Requires that each intern be 60 years of age or older. Authorizes each Member of the House of Representatives to hire for two weeks each year, between May 1 and May 31, two senior citizen interns who will serve as such within the District of Columbia.
United States · United States Congress · 11 March 1976
Federal Election Campaign Act Amendments - Title I: Amendments to Federal Election Campaign Act - Amends the Federal Election Campaign Act to provide that six members of the Federal Election Commission be appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate. Makes the Secretary of the Senate and the Clerk of the House of Representatives ex officio members of the Commission. States that any appointed member of the Commission shall not engage in any other business, vocation, or employment while a member of the Commission. Makes it the purpose of the Commission to seek to obtain compliance with the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 concerning the Presidential Campaign Fund and the Presidential Primary Matching Payment Account. Grants the Commission exclusive and primary jurisdiction with respect to the civil enforcement of such provisions. States that the authority or function of Congress will not be limited or diminished by this Act. Requires that an affirmative vote of four members of the Commission be taken before any guidelines for compliance with election laws are established. Provides that in any year in which a candidate is not on the ballot, such candidate and his authorized committee shall only be required to file a report with the Commission not later than the tenth day following the close of any calendar quarter in which aggregate contributions and expenditures were in excess of $10,000. Requires each treasurer of a political committee authorized by the candidate to raise contributions or make expenditures, other than the candidate's principal campaign committee, to file reports with the candidate's principal campaign committee. Requires a political committee, other than an authorized committee, with expenditures in excess of $100 to report the identification of each person to whom expenditures have been made, the amount, date, and purpose of each expenditure, and the name and address of, and office sought by, each candidate on whose behalf such expenditure was made. States that certification that such expenditure is made in cooperation with or at the suggestion of a candidate is made under penalty of perjury. Requires every person who makes expenditures or contributions expressly advocating the election or defeat of a clearly identified candidate in an aggregate amount in excess of $100 within a calendar year to file a statement with the Commission. States which information shall be contained in such statements. Requires the Commission to prepare indices of expenditures on a candidate-by-candidate basis. Includes the Democratic Caucus and the Republican Conference of each House of Congress among those eligible to submit written requests for advisory opinions of the Commission. States that advisory opinions shall apply only to the person requesting such advisory opinion and to any other person directly involved in the specific transaction or activity with respect to which such opinion is rendered. Requires the Commission to prescribe rules or regulations in any case where the Commission receives more than one request for advisory opinions relating to similar activities where the Commission determines that such activity is not subject to any existing rule or regulation prescribed by the Commission. Prohibits the Commission from investigating any complaint which is not in writing, signed and sworn to by the person filing the complaint, and notorized. Denies the Commission the authority to investigate the activities of any staff employee of any person holding Federal office without first consulting with such person holding Federal office. Provides that an affidavit of the person holding Federal office that his staff employee is performing his regularly assigned duties shall be a complete bar to any further inquiry. Requires the Commission to afford a reasonable opportunity for any person notified of an apparent violation to demonstrate that no action should be taken against him. Allows the Commission: (1) upon determination that there is probable cause to believe that a knowing or willful violation of this Act has occurred or is about to occur, to refer such apparent violation to the Attorney General of the United States; and (2) upon determination that there is clear and convincing proof of a violation, to require that such person involved in a conciliation agreement pay a civil penalty. Empowers the Commission to institute a civil action for relief if it believes that there has been a violation of any of the terms of a conciliation agreement. Prescribes civil penalties of not more than the greater of $10,000 or an amount equal to 200 percent of the contribution or expenditure involved in such violation. Allows the Commission to include specified civil penalties in the requirements of a conciliation agreement. Allows a party aggrieved by an order of the Commission dismissing a complaint filed by such a party or by a failure of the Commission to act on such complaint within 90 days to file a petition with the United States District Court for the District of Columbia. Sets time limits for the filing of such petitions. States that if the Commission determines after investigation that any person has violated an order of the court, it may petition the court for an order to adjudicate that person in civil contempt or criminal contempt if it believes the violation to be knowing and willful. Sets penalties for any member of the Commission or other person who makes public any investigation without written consent of the party being investigated. Extends the duties of the Commission to include the compilation of cumulative index of reports and statements filed with it by political committees supporting more than one candidate. Changes House rules concerning consideration of resolutions where a House committee reports any resolution relating to a rule or regulation proposed by the Commission. Denies the admissibility into evidence or the creation of a presumption of violation or criminal intent of any rule, regulation, guideline, advisory opinion or other pronouncement of the Commission. Prohibits any person from making contributions to any candidate or any political party which, in the aggregate, exceeds $1,000. Prohibits any person from making contributions aggregating more than $25,000 in any calendar year. Defines contributions to include (1) financing dissemination, distribution, or republication of any broadcast or campaign materials; and (2) payments made through an intermediary or conduit to a particular candidate. Prohibits contributions which in the aggregate exceed $5,000 made by any political committee to any candidate or to any other political committee. Sets expenditure limitations for Presidential candidates of: (1) $10,000,000 for a candidate seeking nomination for election to the office of President; and (2) $20,000,000 for a candidate seeking election to the office of President. States that any candidate seeking nomination for President shall not make expenditures in any one State which exceed twice the greater of eight cents multiplied by the voting age population or $100,000. Provides for an inflation increase to be added to the expenditures limitations on an annual basis. Restricts the spending of a national committee of a political party to: (1) two cents multiplied by the voting age population of the United States for a candidate for the Presidency; (2) two cents multiplied by the voting age population of the State or $20,000 for a candidate for the Senate or to the House of Representatives where that State is entitled to only one Representative; and (3) $10,000 for a candidate to the office of Representative, Delegate, or Resident Commissioner in any other State. Makes these restrictions as to State and Congressional elections applicable to any State committee of a political party. Prohibits any candidate or political committee from knowingly accepting any contribution or making any expenditure in violation of the provisions of this Act. Makes it illegal for any national bank or any corporation organized by authority of any law of Congress, to make a contribution or expenditure in connection with any primary or general election or political convention or caucus held to select candidates for any political office. Prohibits corporations or labor organizations from making contributions or expenditures in connection with Presidential or Congressional elections, or in connection with any primary election or political convention or caucus held to select candidates. Prohibits specified Government contractors from directly or indirectly making contributions or promises thereof to any political party, committee, or candidate for public office or to any person for any political use. Makes it unlawful to solicit any contributions from such Government contractors. Requires a candidate or his authorized committee or their agents to file a statement with the Federal Elections Commission: (1) whenever he authorizes a communication advocating the election or defeat of a clearly identified candidate; or (2) whenever such communication is not authorized to state the name of the person that made or financed the expenditure for the communication. Prohibits contributions from any foreign nationals. Prohibits any person from making a contribution in the name of another person or from knowingly accepting a contribution made by one person in the name of another. Restricts to $250 the amount of any contribution of U.S. or foreign currency. Sets a fine for the violation of this provision. Limits the acceptance of honorariums to: (1) $1,000 for any appearances, speech or article; or (2) $15,000 in the aggregate in any calendar year. Prescribes penalties for violations of this Act which concern contributions or expenditures. Makes it illegal to fraudulently misrepresent campaign authority or to otherwise act on behalf of any candidate or political party on a matter which is damaging to another candidate or political party. Makes provisions for the termination of authority of the Federal Elections Commission. Title II: Amendments to Title 18, United States Code - Makes technical and conforming amendments to existing law. (Repeals 18 U.S.C. 608, 610-617). Title III: Amendments to the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 - Requires that a candidate shall certify to the Federal Election Commission that such candidate did not knowingly make expenditures from his personal funds or from those of his immediate family for election to the office of President in excess of, in the aggregate, $50,000 in order to be eligible to receive payment from the Presidential Election Campaign Fund.
United States · United States Congress · 9 March 1976
National Forest Timber Management Reform Act - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to establish standards for future timber sales from national forests consistent with the criteria set forth in this Act. Requires that timber sales be made only from stable lands which are capable of regenerating a commercial stand of timber. Requires that minimum reforestation requirements be included in such standards. Imposes quantity sales limitations on timber sales in order to prevent the quantity and quality of timber from declining. Directs the Secretary to establish standards for maximum utilization of all trees sold from the national forests. Requires a complete interdisciplinary review from an environmental, biological, engineering, and economic standpoint of all proposed timber sales of $5,000 or more in national forests. Directs the Secretary to make public at least 60 days prior to each sale a brief statement as to the consistency of such proposed cut with principles of multiple use. Requires that the Secretary impose limitations on clearcutting practices in national forests. Prohibits the Secretary from allowing the cutting of immature trees except where the cutting of such trees: (1) conforms to specified forest management purposes; (2) achieves an even age distribution in southern pine forests; and (3) in connection with clearcuts where the stand of trees is predominantly of mature trees. Prohibits the cutting and removal of any tree from national forests unless such tree has been properly marked. Authorizes clearcuts without marking of individual trees in accordance with standards to be promulgated by the Secretary. Requires that the Secretary evaluate and limit the effects of proposed conversions of plant communities within natural forests. Prohibits contracts for the cutting of timber in national forests for more than a three-year period. Prohibits the use of DDT and other chlorinated hydrocarbons by the Secretary in the national forests for pest control purposes. Requires that the Secretary and the Forest Service take steps to preserve the natural ecosystems, soil resources, and fish and wildlife resources in national forests. Requires the preparation of a multiple use-sustained yield management plan for each national forest. Requires the establishment of a cost accounting system for future timber sales, to include indirect and direct administrative costs with respect to growth and reforestation of timber as well as sales. Allows States and localities to elect to receive payments from the Secretary of Agriculture based on the amount of specified public lands within the boundaries of such governmental units in lieu of the sum of amounts made available to States and localities under other provisions of Federal law.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1976
Visa and Naturalization Administration Act - Establishes in the executive branch an independent agency to be known as the Visa and Naturalization Administration to which are transferred: (1) the functions, powers, and duties of the Visa Office of the Bureau of Security and Consular Affairs in the Department of State, and the functions, powers, and duties of the Secretary of State with respect to such Office; (2) specified functions, powers, and duties of the Secretary of Labor; (3) the functions, powers, and duties of the Commissioner of Immigration and Naturalization; and (4) the functions, powers, and duties of the Attorney General under the Immigration and Nationality Act except those functions, powers, and duties pertaining to the enforcement of a final order of deportation. Creates an Office of Inspector General to investigate each program administered by the Administration and to report to Congress concerning complaints and investigations with respect to Administration programs.
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1976
Federal Election Campaign Act Amendments - Title I: Amendments to Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 - Amends the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 to provide that six members of the Federal Election Commission be appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate. Makes the Secretary of the Senate and the Clerk of the House of Representatives ex officio members of the Commission. States that any appointed member of the Commission shall not engage in any other business, vocation, or employment while a member of the Commission. Makes it the purpose of the Commission to seek to obtain compliance with the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 concerning the Presidential Campaign Fund and the Presidential Primary Matching Payment Account. Grants the Commission exclusive and primary jurisdiction with respect to the civil enforcement of such provisions. States that the authority or function of Congress will not be limited or diminished by this Act. Requires that an affirmative vote of four members of the Commission be taken before any guidelines for complaince with election laws are established. Limits the duties of the ex officio members to non-voting functions. Provides that in any year in which a candidate is not on the ballot, such candidate and his authorized committee shall only be required to file a report with the Commission not later than the tenth day following the close of any calendar quarter in which aggregate contributions and expenditures were in excess of $10,000. Requires each treasurer of a political committee authorized by the candidate to raise contributions or make expenditures, other than the candidate's principal campaign committee, to file reports with the candidate's principal campaign committee. Requires a political committee, other than an authorized committee, with expenditures in excess of $100 to report the identification of each person to whom expenditures have been made, the amount, date, and purpose of each expenditure, and the name and address of, and office sought by, each candidate on whose behalf such expenditure was made. States that certification that such expenditure is made in cooperation with or at the suggestion of a candidate is made under penalty of law. Requires every person who makes expenditures or contributions expressly advocating the election or defeat of a clearly identified candidate in an aggregate amount in excess of $100 within a calendar year to file a statement with the Commission. Requires the Commission to prepare indices of expenditures on a candidate-by-candidate basis. Includes the Democratic Caucus and the Republican Conference of each House of Congress among those eligible to submit written requests for advisory opinions of the Commission. States that advisory opinions shall apply only to the person requesting such advisory opinion and to any other person directly involved in the specific transaction or activity with respect to which such opinion is rendered. Requires the Commission to prescribe rules or regulations in any case where the Commission receives more than one request for advisory opinions relating to similar activities where the Commission determines that such activity is not subject to any existing rule or regulation prescribed by the Commission. Prohibits the Commission from investigating any complaint which is not in writing, signed and sworn to by the person filing the complaint, and notorized. Requires the Commission to afford a reasonable opportunity for any person notified of an apparent violation to demonstrate that no action should be taken against him. Allows the Commission: (1) upon determination that there is probable cause to believe that a knowing or willful violation of this Act has occurred or is about to occur, to refer such apparent violation to the Attorney General of the United States; and (2) upon determination that there is clear and convincing proof of a violation, to require that such person involved in a conciliation agreement pay a civil penalty. Empowers the Commission to institute a civil action for relief if it believes that there has been a violation of any of the terms of a conciliation agreement. Prescribes civil penalties of not more than the greater of $10,000 or an amount equal to 300 percent of the contribution or expenditure involved in such violation. Allows an aggrieved party by an order of the Commission dismissing a complaint filed by such a party or by a failure of the Commission to act on such complaint within 90 days to file a petition with the United States District Court for the District of Columbia. Sets time limits for the filing of such petitions. States that if the Commission determines after investigation that any person has violated an order of the court, it may petition the court for an order to adjudicate that person in civil contempt or criminal contempt if it believes the violation to be knowing and willful. Extends the duties of the Commission to include the compilation of a cumulative index of reports and statements filed with it by political committees supporting more than one candidate. Changes House rules concerning consideration of resolutions where a House committee reports any resolution relating to a rule or regulation proposed by the Commission. Prohibits any person from making contributions to any candidate or any political party which, in the aggregate, exceed $1,000. Prohibits any person from making contributions to any candidate or any political party which, in the aggregate, exceed $1000. Prohibits any person from making contributions aggregating more than $25,000 in any calendar year. Defines contributions to include (1) financing dissemination, distribution or republication of any broadcast or campaign materials; and (2) payments made through an intermediary to a particular candidate. Prohibits contributions which in the aggregate exceed $5,000 made by any political committee to any candidate or to any other political committee. Sets the expenditure limitations for Presidential candidates of: (1) $10,000,000 for a candidate seeking nomination for election to the office of President; and (2) $20,000,000 for a candidate seeking election to the office of President. States that any candidate seeking nomination for President shall not make expenditures in any one State which exceed twice the greater of eight cents multiplied by the voting age population or $100,000. Provides for an inflation increase to be added to the expenditures limitations on an annual basis. Restricts the spending of a national committee of a political party to: (1) two cents multiplied by the voting age population of the United States for a candidate for the Presidency; (2) two cents multiplied by the voting age population of the State or $20,000 for a candidate for the Senate or to the House of Representatives where that State is entitled to only one Representative; and (3) $10,000 for a candidate to the office of Representative, Delegate, or Resident Commissioner in any other State. Makes these restrictions as to State and Congressional elections applicable to any State committee of a political party. Prohibits any candidate or political committee from knowingly accepting any contribution or making any expenditure in violation of the provisions of this Act. Makes it illegal for any national bank or any corporation organized by authority of any law of Congress, to make a contribution or expenditure in connection with any primary or general election or political convention or caucus held to select candidates for any political office. Prohibits corporations or labor organizations from making contributions or expenditures in connection with Presidential or Congressional elections, or in connection with any primary election or political convention or caucus held to select candidates. Prohibits specified Government contractors from directly or indirectly making contributions or promises thereof to any political party, committee, or candidate for public office or to any person for any political use. Makes it unlawful to solicit any contributions from such Government contractors. Requires a candidate or his authorized committee or their agents to file a statement with the Federal Elections Commission: (1) whenever he authorizes a communication advocating the election or defeat of a clearly identified candidate; or (2) whenever such communication is not authorized to state the name of the person that made or financed the expenditure for the communication. Prohibits contributions from any foreign nationals. Prohibits any person from making a contribution in the name of another person or from knowingly accepting a contribution made by one person in the name of another. Restricts to $100 the amount of any contribution of U.S. or foreign currency. Limits the acceptance of honorariums to: (1) $1,000 for any appearances, speech or article; or (2) $15,000 in the aggregate in any calendar year. Prescribes penalties for violations of this Act which concern contributions or expenditures. Makes it illegal to fraudulently misrepresent campaign authority or to otherwise act on behalf of any candidate or political party on a matter which is damaging to another candidate or political party. Title II: Amendments to Title 18, United States Code - Makes technical and conforming amendments to existing law. (Repeals 18 U.S.C. 591, 608, 610-617). Title III: Amendments to the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 - Requires that a candidate shall certify to the Federal Election Commission that such candidate did not knowingly make expenditures from his personal funds or from those of his immediate family for election to the office of President in excess of, in the aggregate, $50,000 in order to be eligible to receive payment from the Presidential Election Campaign Fund.
United States · United States Congress · 17 February 1976
Creates a seven member select committee in the House to conduct a full and complete investigation and study of the circumstances surrounding the deaths of John and Robert Kennedy, Martin Luther King, and the attempted assassination of George Wallace. Grants specified powers to the committee. Requires the committee to report to the House as soon as practicable during the present Congress.
United States · United States Congress · 9 February 1976
Lifeline Rate Act - Stipulates that no rate schedule of an electric utility shall result in a greater per kilowatt-hour charge to residential electric consumers for a subsistence quantity of electric energy than the lowest charge to any other electric consumer. Sets forth procedures for civil suits and judicial review where violations by utilities as regulatory authorities are alleged under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 3 February 1976
Government in the Sunshine Act - Declares that it is the policy of Congress that the public is entitled to the fullest practicable information regarding the decision-making process of the Federal Government and that providing such information is the purpose of this Act. Requires that Federal agency proceedings be open to the public unless in the agency's opinion an open meeting would likely disclose information that would be in violation of an individual's rights, would hamper enforcement of the law, or would lead to instability of a financial institution. Requires transcripts or electronic recordings to be prepared of any agency meeting closed to the public. States that such transcripts or recordings with the detrimental information deleted must be made available to the public. Directs that open meetings be recorded in written minutes. Requires that all agency meetings be announced at least one week before such meeting; such announcement must state the time, place, subject matter of such meeting and whether it will be open to the public. Gives jurisdiction to enforce this Act to the United States district courts and authorizes any person to bring a suit to enforce this Act. Sets procedures for the review of agency action by the Court. Allows attorney's fees to be awarded to the party winning a suit brought under this Act. Requires all agencies to report to Congress annually regarding compliance with this Act. States that nothing in this Act authorizes an agency to withhold information it is otherwise required to provide to an individual, the public, or Congress. (Adds 5 U.S.C. 552b) Prohibits ex parte communication with any individual who is or is reasonably expected to be involved in a decision-making proceeding by anyone interested in such proceeding. (Amends 5 U.S.C. 551, 556, and 557) Sets forth conforming amendments. Makes this Act effective 180 days after its enactment.
United States · United States Congress · 3 February 1976
Declares that the House of Representatives, on behalf of the people of the United States, express their complete and unqualified gratitute to Oliver Sipple for preventing an assailant from assassinating President Ford.
United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1976
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the people of Angola should be allowed to determine their own political future without foreign interference. Expresses support for efforts by the Organization of African Unity to achieve a settlement of the conflict in Angola. Calls upon all countries to terminate military assistance to any group in Angola. States that the President should do his utmost to seek an agreement among the various parties involved in hostilities or in the support of such hostilities in Angola to terminate such hostilities. Directs the President to refrain from providing assistance of any kind, for military activities in Angola, until specifically approved by Congress.
United States · United States Congress · 19 December 1975
Expresses the gratitude of the House of Representatives to Oliver Sipple for his selfless heroism in preventing the assassination of Gerald R. Ford, President of the United States of America.
United States · United States Congress · 20 November 1975
National Consumer Cooperative Bank Act - Title I: National Consumer Cooperative Bank - Sets for the findings of Congress that there is a need for the establishment of a National Consumer Cooperative Bank and a Cooperative Bank and Assistance Administration which will make available necessary financial and technical assistance to cooperative self-help endeavors as a means of strengthening the Nation's economy. Establishes the National Consumer Cooperative Bank. States that the Bank shall (1) encourage the development of new and existing cooperative eligible for its assistance by providing specialized credit and technical assistance; (2) minimum broad-based control of the Bank by its voting stockholders; (3) encourage broad-based ownership control and active participation by members in eligible cooperatives; (4) assure that the net savings from its operations and the operations of borrowers from the Bank are made available or accounted for to the stockholders or members of the cooperative organization ; and (5) assist in improving the quality and availability of goods and services to consumers. Authorizes the creation of no less than four nor more than twelve corporate regional banks. States that the Bank shall have the power to make and service loans, commitments for credit, guarantees, furnish financially related services, technical assistance, and issue obligations. Enumerates additional powers necessary to carry out its powers and duties under this Act. Authorizes appropriations of $250,000,000 per year for the United States to purchase class A preferred stock of the Bank. Requires the Bank to hold an annual meeting of stockholders. Permits the Bank to obtain funds through the public or private sale of its bonds, debentures, notes, and other evidences of indebtedness. Authorizes the Bank to make loans to eligible organizations which shall be repayable in not more than forty years. States that the objective of the Bank shall be to provide the type of credit needed by eligible borrowers, at the lowest reasonable cost on a sound business basis, taking into account the cost of money to the Bank. Defines "eligible cooperatives" for purposes of assistance under this title as an organization chartered or operated on a cooperative, not for profit basis for producing or furnishing goods, services, facilities, or financing primarily for the benefit of its members or voting stockholders who are ultimate consumers, if it meets specified criteria, or any other institution chartered or operated in such a way as to enhance competitive market forces or to reduce the price spread between producers and the ultimate consumers of products or services. Title II: Self-Help Development Fund - Establishes in the Treasury a Consumer Cooperative Self-Help Development Fund. Authorizes appropriations of $250,000,000 to be deposited in the Fund. Permits the Cooperative Bank and Assistance Administration to make a capital investment advance out of the Fund to any eligible cooperative if the Administration determines that the applicants' initial or supplemental capital requirements exceed its ability to obtain a Title I loan from the Bank or other sources, and the membership of the applicant consists substantially of low-income persons. Title III: Cooperative Technical Assistance - Directs the Cooperative Bank and Assistance Administration to make available information and services concerning the organization or reorganization of cooperatives to best achieve the objectives of this Act and to best provide the means through which various types of goods, services, and facilities can be made available to members and patrons. States that such assistance may include investigations, surveys, and director and management training and assistance. Authorizes appropriations to the Administration of sums necessary for the administration of this title. Title IV: The Cooperative Bank and Assistance Administration and General Provisions - Establishes the Cooperative Bank and Assistance Administration. Directs the Administration to assure that the objectives of this Act are carried out. States that until the stock of the Bank held by the United States has been fully retired the Bank shall be exempt from any form of taxation. Requires the Administration and the Board to report annually to the appropriate committees of Congress on the activities of the Administration and on the Bank's capital, operations, financial condition, the self-help development fund, and to make recommendations for legislation to improve its services. Authorizes appropriations of sums necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act, in addition to appropriations specifically authorized.
United States · United States Congress · 20 November 1975
Franchising Practices Reform Act - Requires a franchisor to notify a franchisee at least ninety days in advance of the franchisor's intention to terminate the franchise, and the franchisor's reasons for terminating. Prohibits a franchisor from cancelling a franchise unless the franchisor has acted in bad faith, or has violated a material requirement of the franchise, or the franchisor is effecting a market area withdrawal. Prohibits a franchisor from failing to renew a franchise except for the reasons stated above, or the franchisor has a legitmate business reason for failing to renew. Makes any franchisor that has violated the requirements of this Act civilly liable to the aggrieved franchisee.
United States · United States Congress · 20 November 1975
Tax Credits and Allowances Act - Title I: Personal Credits Allowances for Basic Living Expenses, and other Tax Provisions - Repeals the personal exemption and provides, in lieu thereof, a credit against tax equal to the personal credits granted by this title. Provides a $225 credit for the taxpayer, and additional credits of $225 each for the taxpayer's spouse and each dependent. Authorizes prepayment of estimated personal credits to recipients of allowances for basic living expenses. Repeals the low income allowance. Provides for a standard employment expense deduction of: (1) 10 percent (but not to exceed $500) of the earned income received by the lesser compensated spouse; and (2) 10 percent (but not to exceed $1,000) of the earned income of the head of a household. Provides an allowance for basic living expenses. Specifies the requirements to be met for eligibility for receipt of such allowance, and sets forth the maximum amounts of such allowance. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to promulgate regulations for the administration of this Act. Defines the terms used in the Act. Provides special rules with respect to the filing status of individuals under this Act. Provides for the coordination of allowances and credits authorized by this Act with those authorized under the educational opportunity grant program of the Higher Education Act of 1965. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as are necessary to carry out the provisions of this title. States that gross income does not include, for the purposes of this title, amounts received by recipients as allowances for basic living expenses. Title II: Public Assistance and Welfare Reform - Requires State supplementation of income to families receiving aid for dependent children in the amount that the income of such families is reduced by the provisions of this Act. Provides that supplementary payments made by States under this title shall be made for a maximum period of 24 months. Changes the eligibility requirements for benefits under the supplemental security income programs of aid to aged, blind, or disabled individuals to prevent reduction of benefits recieved by such individuals by virtue of the provisions of this Act. States that until such time as a comprehensive program of services for families and children is developed and placed into effect, the Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare shall provide a transitional program of specified services to such families. States that the Secretary shall develop a comprehensive program of such services within one year of the effective date of this title. Authorizes optional state supplementation of social security income benefits to ameliorate the effects of the provisions of this Act on families with disabled children. Title III: Miscellaneous and General Provisions - Provides that the total amount of State supplementation payments made under this Act may be used as an allowance offset for purposes of income taxation where the application of the provisions of this Act results in a net reduction of its basic living expense allowance or its supplemental security income benefit. Prohibits Federal assistance to child-care facilities imposing income-related fees. Makes technical and conforming amendments in other specified laws. Repeals the Food Stamp Act of 1964. Provides that obligations of the United States shall be subject to garnishment and similar proceedings to meet court-ordered alimony, child-support, and rent obligations.
United States · United States Congress · 19 November 1975
Equal Opportunity for Displaced Homemakers Act - Requires the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to establish a multipurpose service program for displaced homemakers, including: (1) job counseling and training services; (2) health education and counseling services; (3) financial management services; (4) educational services; and (5) outreach and information services with respect to Federal employment, education, health, and unemployment assistance programs. Defines a "displaced homemaker" as an individual who: (1) has worked in the home, providing unpaid household services for family members; (2) is not gainfully employed; (3) has had, or would have, difficulty in securing employment; and (4) has been dependent on the income of another family member but is no longer supported by such income, or has been dependent on Federal assistance but is no longer eligible for such assistance. Directs the Secretary to conduct a study to determine the feasibility of and appropriate procedures for allowing displaced homemakers to participate in specified Federal programs. Requires the Secretary to submit a final report to each House of the Congress not later than one year after the date of enactment of this Act. Authorizes appropriations of sums necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 14 November 1975
Revises Rules IX, XII and XXVIII of the Rules of the House of Representatives to provide that the House may not consider any report of a committee, bill, resolution, or a report of a committee of conference unless copies or reproduction have been available to Members on the floor at least two hours before such consideration.
United States · United States Congress · 11 November 1975
Renegotiation Act Amendments - Revises the procedures under the Renegotiation Act for the determination of excessive profits by national defense contractors. Sets terms of office for members of the Renegotiation Board at five years except for those members appointed to fill a vacancy occurring prior to the expiration of a term. Sets the method and form of commencing renegotiation proceedings under this Act. Eliminates specified exemptions for products and equipment of oil and gas wells which the Board may presently make to some or all of the provisions of the Renegotiation Act. Provides for the payment of interest on amounts of excessive profits at a rate to be specified by the Secretary of the Treasury. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as are necessary to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 22 October 1975
Condemns the resolution adopted by the Third Committee of the United Nations General Assembly which equates Zionism with racism, and urges the U.N. General Assembly to disapprove such resolution.
United States · United States Congress · 21 October 1975
Provides for making the Survivor Benefit Plan applicable to retired members of the Armed Forces who are age 55 and meet all other requirements for nonregular retired pay.
United States · United States Congress · 9 October 1975
Authorizes the President to issue a proclamation designating the week in November which includes Thanksgiving Day in each year as "National Family Week."
United States · United States Congress · 8 October 1975
Tax Justice Act - Title I: Capital Gains and Losses - Repeals, under the Internal Revenue Code, the alternative tax for individuals and corporations. Provides for a gradual phase-out of the capital gains deduction. States that such deduction shall not apply after December 31, 1979. Establishes a new system for treatment of capital losses, carrybacks, and carryovers. Provides that unrealized gains on capital assets held at death or transferred by gift shall be treated as long term capital gains, to the extent such amount exceeds $25,000, reduced by permitted amounts. Permits the taxpayer to elect, with respect to any capital asset, to treat the excess of the fair market value over the adjusted basis of such asset as a long term capital gain. Title II: Reforms Relating to Business Taxes - Terminates the investment credit for property constructed or acquired after 1976. Repeals the asset depreciation range system. Repeals the provision permitting the amortization of expenditures to rehabilitate low-income rental housing. Sets forth limitations on farming deductions, including horse racing. Repeals the percentage depletion allowance, the option to deduct intangible drilling costs, and specified amortization provisions. Title III: Treatment of Foreign Source Income - Provides for taxation of amounts included in the gross income of U. S. shareholders of controlled foreign corporations. Sets forth rules for determining stockownership. Excludes previously taxed earnings and profits from gross income. Repeals the tax exemption for Domestic International Sales Corporations (DISC). Limits the foreign tax credit in cases of foreign oil and gas income. Repeals the deductions for Western Hemisphere trade corporations. Denies special tax treatment to dividends from less developed country corporations. Title IV: Estate and Gift Tax Amendments - Imposes estate tax rates on inter vivos gifts, and an additional tax on transfers to generation-skipping trusts. Limits charitable deductions to 50 percent with respect to the estate tax. Title V: State and Local Obligations - Repeals the interest exemption for new issues of State and local bonds. Requires the United States to pay 50 percent of the interest yeild on such obligations. Title VI: Provisions Relating to Individuals - Substitutes a credit in lieu of deductions for personal exemptions. Repeals the provision allowing partial exclusion of dividends. Grants a tax credit for personal deductions equivalent to 25 percent of the personal deductions for the taxable year. Disallows any deduction for the business use of the home, unless a portion of the home is used exclusively for business purposes. Repeals the fifty-one percent maximum tax on earned income.
United States · United States Congress · 7 October 1975
Authorizes the granting of Federal farm loans under the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act for purposes of Government mandated pollution control.
![Official portrait of Rep. Burton, John [D-CA-5]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/b001153_200.jpg)