United States · United States Congress · 20 November 1975
Comprehensive National Health Care Act - States that the purpose of this Act is to create a system of national health care benefits which will make comprehensive health services available to all residents of the United States. Title I: National Health Care Program - Repeals title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act. Establishes a health care benefits program covering: (1) inpatient hospital services; (2) physicians' services; (3) medical and other health services; (4) home health services; (5) post-hospital extended care services; (6) outpatient drugs and biologicals; (7) routine dental services; (8) developmental vision care services, as defined in regulations, routine eye and vision examinations, and eyeglasses; (9) hearing aids and examinations; (10) routine physical examinations and preventive services as defined in regulations; and (11) ambulance services in specified instances. Limits post-hospital extended care services and home health care services coverage to 180 days per year. Limits inpatient psychiatric hospital services to 45 days per year. States that every individual, without regard to race, sex, income or age, who is a resident of the United States shall be eligible for health care benefits. Directs the Social Security Administration to establish a separate account for each individual covered by this program. Requires the Social Security Administration to make payments to providers of services under the provisions of this Act. Sets forth conditions and limitations on payment for services. Allows payments for emergency hospital services furnished to individuals entitled to benefits under this Act. States that payment for major surgery and other specialized services may be made only when such services are furnished by specialists. States that payment may not be made for services furnished by a professional practitioner in a hospital which is not a participating provider of services, except for specified outpatient services. Establishes an area health care services board within each geographic area established by the Public Health Service Act. Enumerates regulations governing prospective payment methods under this Act. Requires providers of services to file an agreement with the Administration not to charge individuals for services for which the individual is entitled to have payment made under this Act. Authorizes the Administration to enter into contracts with carriers to perform specified functions. States that payment for services rendered by a physician shall be made in accordance with a single fee schedule applicable throughout the designated geographical area. Establishes a National Health Care Formulary Committee, consisting of the Commissioner of Food and Drugs and three other individuals. Directs the Committee to compile, publish, and make available a National Health Care Formulary containing an alphabetical list of drugs, including specific dosage forms and strengths. Establishes a National Health Care Trust Fund, and a Board of Trustees to govern such fund. Directs the Board to report to Congress annually on the status and operation of the Fund. Defines terms used in this title. Provides criminal penalties for violations of the provisions of this Act. Establishes a Provider Reimbursement Review Board to hold hearings on cost reports filed by providers of services, if such provider is dissatisfied with a final determination of his cost report. States that at such hearing, the provider of services shall have the right to be represented by counsel. Creates a National Health Care Benefits Advisory Council to provide advice and recommendations for the consideration of the Administration with respect to this title. Directs the Administration to prescribe necessary regulations to carry out the provisions of this title. Imposes a special income tax to finance the health care program. Provides that one-half the amount paid may be taken as an income tax credit. Title II: Independent Social Security Administration - States that the purpose of this title is to strengthen the fiscal and administrative structure of the contributory social security programs. Establishes as an independent agency of the executive branch a Social Security Administration. States that the Administration shall administer the program established by this Act, in addition to the Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance program, and the black lung benefits program. Directs the Administration to study the most effective methods of providing economic security through social insurance. Requires the Administration to submit an annual report to Congress on its activities and recommendations for legislation. Abolishes the positions of Commissioners of Social Security. Title III: Miscellaneous Provisions - Provides that existing employer- employee health benefits plans shall be unaffected by this Act. Makes technical and conforming amendments to the Social Security Act.
United States · United States Congress · 20 November 1975
Electric Utility Regulatory Reform Act - Title I: General Provisions - States that the purpose of this Act is to reform specified aspects of electric utility regulation. Defines terms as used in this Act. Title II: Utility Rate Reform - Requires all electric utilities to implement peak-load pricing. Prohibits unjustified differences in rates to different classes of consumers. Specifies that costs such as advertising and fines shall not be treated as operating costs by the utilities. Title III: Utility Planning and Siting Reform - Requires electric utilities to prepare long-range plans for power supply facilities which include site selection. Provides that the plan shall be submitted to the appropriate regulatory authorities and shall be made available to the public. Directs the Federal Energy Commission to establish annual target rates for electric energy growth. Calls for sharing of facilities by utilities. Titles IV: Reliability and Financial Aid to Utilities - Requires the Commission to establish reliability standards for the utilities. Provides for loan guarantees to utilities of no more than $200,000,000 with an overall limit of $2,000,000,000 in outstanding guarantees. Title V: Financial Assistance to State Regulatory Authorities - Authorizes the appropriation of $48,000,000 a year for grants to State regulatory authorities for specified purposes. Title VI: Federal Energy Commission - Establishes the Federal Electric Power Regulatory Commission to carry out the Federal functions under this Act and all functions of the Federal Power Commission. Terminates the Federal Power Commission.
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 · 19 November 1975
Directs the Federal Energy Administration not to forgive or defer collection of any accrued fees arising under the oil import fee program. Provides that if the Supreme Court denies the petition of certiorari or otherwise affirms the decision of the United States Court of Appeals that such fees are unlawful; all such fees shall be refunded to consumers, not to the oil importers.
United States · United States Congress · 18 November 1975
Community-Based Day Treatment and In-Home Services for Children and Families Act - Provides, under title IV of the Social Security Act, for the establishment of day treatment and in-home arrangements for services to children and families in trouble. Makes funds appropriated under the Social Security Act for child welfare services available to cooperating State agencies in the provision of day treatment and in-home services to children and families. Authorizes the appropriation of an additional $50,000,000 for each of the fiscal years following the enactment of this Act, for the purposes of this Act. Provides for the distribution of such funds to the appropriate State agencies. Defines the terms "day treatment services", and "in-home services". States that the term 'day treatment services' includes psychiatric, psychological, social casework, educational, vocational, recreational, health, and child care services, and any other services which are furnished a child or family in the home or through community-based services with the intent of preventing the child's institutionalization or other placement outside the family, except where such institutionalization or placement is in the child's best interest. States that the term 'in-home' specifically includes homemaking, housekeeping, and counseling services, and any other services which are furnished in the home and are aimed primarily at the family unit with the intent of keeping the family structure intact or reuniting a separated family. Requires States, as a condition to receiving Federal payments for child welfare services, to limit the placement of children outside or the home for treatment to those cases in which all feasible alternatives have been exhausted, or such placement has been ordered by a court of competent jurisdiction. Requires State plans for aid and services to needy families with children to provide that the State agency supervising the administration of the plan will: (1) exhaust all feasible alternatives to placement of a child in a foster home, institution, or other residential facility before placing or approving the placement of such child in such a home, institution, or facility, and (2) submit to the Secretary periodic reports indicating the steps being taken to explore such alternatives (and the various types of alternative arrangements being considered) in connection with the placement of children in such homes, institutions, and facilities.
United States · United States Congress · 14 November 1975
Consumer Beef-Grading Act - Establishes within the Department of Agriculture the Task Force on Beef-Grading Standards, to exist until terminated by the Congress. Sets forth the duties of the Commission, including to determine the needs and preferences of consumers with respect to beef-grading standards, and to make recommendations to the Secretary of Agriculture with respect to prescribing regulations establishing new beef-grading standards. Outlines factors which must be considered in making such recommendations. Provides that the task force shall be composed of 16 members appointed by the Secretary. Directs that the task force be headed by a Director appointed by the members. Authorizes the Director to appoint a staff. Directs the Secretary to establish new beef-grading standards which shall reflect the recommendations made by the task force. Requires the Secretary to prepare notices describing the beef-grading standards prescribed pursuant to this Act. Provides that such standards shall include amounts of marbling and leanness in each grade of beef, the nutritional qualities of each grade, cost-value information, and general instructions on preparation and cooking of each grade. Directs the Secretary to establish a program of consumer education with regard to the beef- grading standards. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums or may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 13 November 1975
Federal Oil Pollution Liability and Compensation Act - Prohibits the discharge of oil in harmful quantities (as determined by the President under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act), and assesses a civil fine of up to $10,000 against the owner, operator, of licensee of the discharging vessel. Prescribes criminal penalties for the failure of any person in charge of a vessel to notify the appropriate agency of the United States Government of such discharge. Directs the President to act to remove discharged oil unless he determines that such removal will be done properly and expeditiously by the owner or operator of the vessel, onshore or offshore facility, or deepwater port, from which the discharge accurs. Provides that all costs, including administrative, incurred by the President, Secretary, or any other Federal, State, or local official or agency, or any other person, of cleanup and other actions to minimize damages resulting from a discharge shall be borne by the owner and operator or licensee of the operation from which from which the discharge occurred (up to $150 per gross ton of the responsible vessel). Limits the liability of owners or operators of onshore and offshore facilitiies and licensees of deepwater ports to the following amounts: (1) $50,000,000, in the case of an onshore facility; (2) $50,000,000, in the case of an offshore facility; and (3) $100,000,000, in the case of a deepwater port. Establishes in the Department of Transportation an agency to be known as the Federal Oil Pollution Liability and Compensation Administration to establish and maintain the Federal Oil Pollution Compensation Fund and to generally act as trustee of the natural resources of the marine environment. Authorizes disbursement of moneys from the Fund for payment of damages not actually compensated under this Act, cleanup costs, and research into methods to prevent, contain, and remove discharges. Provides that the Fund shall be provisioned through the levy and collection by the Administration of a 5-cent-per-barrel fee imposed on the owner of oil when the oil is transferred between: (1) a vessel and an onshore or offshore facility, (2) offshore or onshore facilities, or (3) a vessel and a deepwater port. States that each owner or operator of a vessel or an onshore or offshore facility and each licensee shall establish and maintain under rules and regulations prescribed by the Administrator, evidence of financial responsibility based on the tonnage of the vessel the capacity of the facility or deepwater port, and other relevant factors. Directs the Administrator to prescribe and from time to time to change regulations for the filing, processing, settlement, and adjudication of claims for cleanup costs and damages resulting from the discharge of oil. Provides for public access to information concerning any communication, document, report, or information transmitted between any official of the Federal Government and any person concerning liability and compensation for damage resulting from the discharge of oil. Authorizes appropriations for the administration of their Act for fiscal years 1976,1977, and 1978.
United States · United States Congress · 12 November 1975
Provides that buildings constructed for use by the United States Postal Service shall be designed and constructed in a manner making them accessible to the physically handicapped.
United States · United States Congress · 11 November 1975
Roberto Clemente Sports City Act - Authorizes the appropriation of $2,500,000 to the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico for the construction of a sports facility to be known as the Roberto Clemente Sports City Recreation Center. Authorizes the Administrator of General Services to donate surplus property and material for such purpose.
United States · United States Congress · 6 November 1975
Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior, in consultation with the heads of other departments affected by this Act, to issue and revise regulations from time to time, relating to the trapping and capturing of animals and birds. Imposes a fine of $500 and/or imprisonment of up to one year for violations of this Act. Establishes an advisory commission of 7 members to consult with the Secretary and make recommendations with respect to regulations concerning trapping and capturing of animals and birds. Imposes a fine of $5,000 and/or imprisonment or of one year, for the sale, shipment, or transport, of any unapproved trap or any animal skin or hide or bird feathers taken in violation of this Act. Outlines those trapping regulations specifically applicable to Federal lands. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into cooperative agreements with any affected State pursuant to which the Secretary shall assist such State to enable it to comply with the provisions of this Act. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 3 November 1975
Requires, under the Truth in Lending Act, creditors to post a sign at each place of business where he extends credit to consumers which states clearly and conspicuously the current rates of interest being charged for each category of loan.
United States · United States Congress · 30 October 1975
Prohibits the use of tolls or other charges on New York City bridges for purposes of an applicable air quality implementation plan for such city under the Clean Air Act. Voids any such charges presently in effect. (Amends 42 U.S.C. 1857)
United States · United States Congress · 28 October 1975
Neighborhood Preservation and Rehabilitation Amendments - Declares it to be the finding of Congress that neighborhoods in United States cities have deteriorated due to lack of public facilities and a lack of capital resources to rehabilitate and maintain such neighborhoods States that private financing is increasingly unavailable in such neighborhoods and declares it to be the purpose of this Act to establish a neighborhood preservation and rehabilitation program. Authorizes to be appropriated specified amounts for fiscal years 1976, 1977, and 1978, for grants under the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974. States that such grants shall be for units of general local government to assist them in carrying out programs to improve basic community facilities and services in designated neighborhood preservation areas. States that an area proposed by a unit of general local government as a neighborhood preservation area must be found by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to have a reasonable prospect of being restored or maintained. Requires, as a second condition for receiving a grant under this Act, that an application by a unit of general local government include a three-year rehabilitation plan, and that the Secretary find this plan to be workable. Declares that, in fiscal year 1976, grants will be made to between ten and 20 cities, including at least two with populations of less than 100,000, and in fiscal years 1977 and 1978, grants will be made to between five and ten cities, of which at least one each year must be a city with a population of less than 100,000. Directs the Secretary to prepare guidelines and regulations setting forth the details of the program's administration. Authorizes the Secretary, under the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1970, to make mortgage insurance available to facilitate the refinancing of mortgages covering housing located in neighborhood preservation areas.
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 · 9 October 1975
Provides, under title XX (Grants to States for Services) of the Social Security Act, that no State shall be required to administer individual means tests for provision of education, nutrition, transportation, recreation, socialization, or associated services provided thereunder to groups of low-income individuals aged sixty or older.
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
Food Industry Antitrust Reports Act - Directs the Federal Trade Commission, the Department of Justice, and the Department of Agriculture to submit to the appropriate House and Senate committees a report on actions with respect to the enforcement of the antitrust laws in the various sectors of the food industry. Requires that such report be made not later than six months after the date of enactment of this Act, and yearly thereafter. Provides that no later than five years after the enactment of this Act, the Commission shall submit to the Congress a comprehensive report on the market structure and state of competition in the food industries. Requires the Commission and the Department of Justice to provide to the Congress an analysis of the adequacy of available data on which any study is based. Authorizes the appropriation to the Commission of $1,000,000 for each of the next five fiscal years.
United States · United States Congress · 30 September 1975
Directs the National Commission on the observance of International Women's Year to organize and convene a National Women's Conference. States that the Conference shall: (1) recognize the contributions of women in the development of our country; (2) assess the progress that has been made to date by both the private and public sectors in promoting equality between men and women in all aspects of life in the United States; (3) assess the role of women in economic, social, cultural, and political development; (4) assess the participation of women in efforts aimed at the development of friendly relations and cooperation among nations and to the strengthening of world peace; and (5) identify the barriers that prevent women from participating fully and equally in all aspects of national life, and develop recommendations for means by which such barriers can be removed. Sets forth the powers of the Commission. Requires regional meetings in preparation for the conference to be held in every State. Directs the Commission to prepare and submit to the President and to each House of Congress a report containing a detailed statement of its findings and recommendations. Authorizes appropriations of up to $10,000,000 to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 26 September 1975
Establishes a select committee in the House of Representatives to conduct an investigation of the circumstances surrounding the death of John F. Kennedy. Directs the committee to report to the House as soon as practicable during the present Congress the results of its investigation, together with such recommendation as it deems advisable.
United States · United States Congress · 24 September 1975
Federal Taxpayers' Rights Act - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to prepare pamphlets which set forth in nontechnical terms (1) the rights and obligations of a taxpayer and the Internal Revenue Service during an audit; (2) the procedures by which a taxpayer may appeal any adverse decision of the Service (including administrative and judicial appeals); (3) the procedures for prosecuting refund claims and filing of taxpayer complaints; and (4) the procedures which the Service may use in enforcing the internal revenue laws (including assessment, jeopardy assessment, levy and distraint, and enforcement of liens). Establishes within the Internal Revenue Service an office to be known as the Office of Taxpayer Services to be under the supervision and direction of an Assistant Commissioner of Internal Revenue who shall assist taxpayers in obtaining easily understandable tax information and answering questions on tax liability, among other functions. States that, upon application filed by a taxpayer, the Assistant Commissioner for Taxpayer Services may issue a Taxpayer Assistance Order if, in the determination of the Assistant Commissioner, the taxpayer is suffering from an unusual, unnecessary, or irreparable loss as a result of the manner in which the internal revenue laws are being administered by the Secretary or his delegate. Authorizes the President of the Legal Services Corporation to establish Taxpayer Representation Offices in four cities (selected by the President) for purposes of providing legal assistance to individuals in connection with: (1) any audit by the Service of any return made by or on behalf of the individual with respect to any tax imposed by chapter 1 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954, or (2) an assessment or collection from any such individual of any tax imposed by such chapter. Provides for show cause hearings with respect to jeopardy assessments and termination of taxable years. Increases the monetary value of specified items to be exempt from levy. Provides criminal penalties (a fine of up to $10,000, imprisonment for up to 2 years, or both) for investigation into or surveillance over the beliefs, associations, or activities of any individual or organization which are not directly related to such revenue laws. Prohibits a civil cause of action for damages or an injunction, or both, for such violations. Prohibits inspection of tax returns pursuant to a criminal investigation unless a search warrant has been issued upon probable cause to believe that no alternative source of necessary information is available. Provides rules for civil investigation related to: (1) payment of Social Security and Railroad Retirement Taxes; (2) pension administration; (3) census information; (4) enforcement of taxpayer's rights under this Act; (5) inspection by States; (6) inspection by a Committee of Congress; and (7) disclosure to persons having a substantial interest (agents of partnerships and corporations, and shareholders of corporations). Provides a civil action for damages for unauthorized disclosure of tax information.
United States · United States Congress · 18 September 1975
Allows an income tax credit under the Internal Revenue Code for the amount of expenses paid for higher education in the taxable year for education above the twelfth grade paid for by the taxpayer for himself or any other individual. Provides that such credit shall be an amount equal to the sum of: (1) 100 percent of so much of such expenses as does not exceed $200; (2) 75 percent of so much of such expenses as exceeds $200 but does not exceed $500; and (3) 25 percent of so much of such expenses as exceed $500 but does not exceed $1,500. Provides for a reduction of such credit by 1 percent of the amount by which the taxpayer's adjusted gross income exceeds $22,500. Defines expenses of higher education as: (1) tuition and fees required for the enrollment or attendance of a student at a level above the twelfth grade at an institution of higher education; and (2) fees, books, supplies, and equipment required for courses of instruction above the twelfth grade at an institution of higher education. Provides that the amount of higher education expenses taken into consideration shall be reduced by any amounts received as a scholarship or fellowship grant or as veterans' benefits.
United States · United States Congress · 17 September 1975
Arts, Humanities, and Cultural Affairs Act - Title I: Arts and Humanities - Authorizes, under the National Foundation on the Arts and Humanities Act, the chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts to make grants to the American Tilan Institute. Authorizes the chairman of the National Endowment for the Humanities to establish a grants-in-aid program for existing and developing State humanities programs in States which meet the standards set forth in such Act. Sets forth the requirements for applications by states for such grants. Sets forth the policy by which funds will be allotted to States under this Act. Establishes the minimum amount which will be allotted at $100,000. Provides for 100 percent funding of State programs in specified cases, and for grants to multi-State groups. Directs the chairman to withhold further grants or require repayment of grants already made when noncompliance by the State agency receiving such grants is discovered. Authorizes, under the National Foundation on the Arts and Humanities Act, the appropriation of $113,500,000 for fiscal year 1977 and 1978 and such sums as may be necessary for fiscal years 1979 and 1980 for programs of the National Endowment for the Arts. Authorizes, under such Act, identical appropriations for programs of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Authorizes, under such Act, the appropriation of up to $25,000,000 per year each to the National Endowment for the Arts, and the National Endowment for the Humanities for each year through fiscal year 1980, for the purpose of matching donations made to each endowment. Title II: Museum Services and Exhibitions - Museum Services Act - Establishes an Institute for the Improvement of Museum Services within the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare. Provides that such Institute shall consist of the Director of the Institute and a National Museum Services Board. States that the Board shall consist of fifteen members appointed by the President by and with the consent of the Senate and eight ex officio members as set forth in this Act. Sets forth the terms of office of the members of the Board. Provides that the Board shall have the responsibility for the general policies with respect to the powers, duties, and authorities vested in the Institute under this Act. States that the Director shall make available to the Board such information and assistance as may be necessary to enable the Board to carry out its functions. Provides that the Director shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, and shall serve at the pleasure of the President and perform such duties and exercise such powers as the Board may prescribe. States that there shall be a Deputy Director who shall be appointed by the President and serve at his pleasure. States that the Deputy Director shall serve as Director during the absence or disability of the Director, or in the event of a vacancy in the office of Director. Sets forth a list of activities for which the Director, subject to the approval of the Board, is authorized to make grants to museums to increase and improve museum services. Provides that grants under this Act may not exceed 75 percent of the cost of the program for which the grant is made. Gives the Institute the authority to accept in the name of the United States grants, gifts, or bequests of money for immediate disbursement in furtherance of the functions of the Institute. Authorizes to be appropriated $25,000,000 for fiscal year 1975, $30,000,000 for each of the succeeding fiscal years ending prior to October 2, 1978. Authorizes to be appropriated an amount equal to the amount contributed to the Institute under this Act during such time period.
United States · United States Congress · 17 September 1975
Uniform Federal Welfare and Medicaid Assistance Act - Increases to 75 percent the Federal matching rate for purposes of reimbursement to States under the programs of aid to needy families with children and medical assistance provided by the Social Security Act. Makes such change effective January 1, 1976.
United States · United States Congress · 17 September 1975
Communications Privacy Act - Prohibits, under the Communications Act of 1934, all disclosures of telephone records except through service of a court subpena meeting specified criteria. Requires in all cases, except where the telephone subscriber is a foreign power, that the party subpenaing the records notify the subscriber simultaneously that records of his telephone conversations are being subpenaed. Allows such notification to be postponed if the Government satisfies the court that notification would impede an ongoing criminal investigation or would hamper the Government's ability to protect national security interests. Prohibits the telephone company from responding to such a subpena for at least ten days.
United States · United States Congress · 17 September 1975
Provides that no veteran may be denied care or treatment at non-Veteran's Administration Hospitals under the CHAMPUS program for any service-connected disability solely because care or treatment for such disability is available at Veterans' Administration medical facilities. (Adds 10 U.S.C. 1086(f))
United States · United States Congress · 15 September 1975
Vietnam Era Reconciliation Act - Provides immunity from prosecution and punishment to those persons who, because of disapproval of the military involvement of the United States in Indochina during the period covering August 4, 1964, and ending March 28, 1975, resisted the draft, were absent from the Armed Forces without leave, or disobeyed an order, which order if obeyed could reasonably have led to the death of another human being. Directs that persons convicted of such offenses and who are serving, or have served, a prison sentence or other punishment shall be released from prison and from other punishment, and any remaining portion or terms of punishment shall be deemed to have been served. Provides that a person who is serving a sentence as a result of the above offenses and is also serving a sentence for an offense not covered by this Act shall be released only from that portion of his sentence specifically applied to offenses covered by this Act. Provides that persons serving a term of reconciliation service, pursuant to Presidential Proclamation 8313, of September 16, 1974, may be released from such service and the remaining portion may be waived. Directs that legal proceedings instituted as a result of offenses covered by this Act be dismissed. Requires all records and information relating thereto to be expunged from all Government department and agency files, records and correspondence. Provides that any person who is eligible for relief under this Act shall be granted a certificate of resignation without condition from the Armed Forces. States that no person shall be denied any statutory or constitutional right because of any crime for which relief is granted by this Act. Exempts from that provision of the Immigration and Nationality Act which denies admission to the U.S. to any person who left the country to avoid military service or any citizen of the U.S. who makes a sworn statement to an appropriate official of the Immigration and Naturalization Service to the effect that he renounced citizenship because of disapproval of military involvement of the United States in Indochina. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 11 September 1975
Provides that no State shall be required to administer individual means tests for the provision of education, nutrition, transportation, recreation, socialization, or associated services provided under the Social Security Act to groups of low-income individuals aged sixty or older. Limits to 6 months the frequency of recertifications of eligibility for services under such Act.
United States · United States Congress · 10 September 1975
Civilian Conservation Corps Act - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of the Interior to establish a Civilian Conservation Corps for the purpose of providing employment for unemployed persons through useful public projects in connection with the conservation, improvement and utilization of the natural resources of lands and waters under the ownership or control of the United States or its agencies. Sets forth eligibility requirements to be met by persons employed under this Act as Corps members. Directs that preference for employment shall be given to persons residing in areas having an unemployment rate of 6.5 percent or greater for three consecutive months. Limits employment of Corps members under this Act to a period of 24 months total employment. Sets forth the duties of the Secretaries under this Act. Authorizes the Secretaries to make grants to the States to assist them in employing unemployed individuals to carry out projects under this Act. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as are necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 9 September 1975
Authorizes the people of the Virgin Islands to organize a government pursuant to a constitution of their own adoption under the provisions of this Act. Authorizes the Legislature of the Virgin Islands to call a constitutional convention to draft a constitution for the people of the Virgin Islands. Requires that such constitution shall include a bill of rights. Provides for eligibility for membership at the convention. Establishes voting procedures for the approval or disapproval of such constitution as may be drafted by the convention. Provides that upon taking effect, a constitution drafted and approved under this Act shall supersede such provisions of the Organic Act of the Virgin Islands as may be inconsistent with such constitution.
United States · United States Congress · 9 September 1975
Authorizes the people of Guam to organize a government pursuant to a constitution of their own adoption under the provisions of this Act. Authorizes the Legislature of Guam to call a constitutional convention to draft a constitution for the people of Guam. Requires that such constitution shall include a bill of rights. Provides for eligibility for membership at the convention. Provides for voting procedures for the approval or disapproval of such constitution as may be drafted by the convention. Provides that upon taking effect, a constitution drafted and approved under this Act shall supersede such provisions of the Organic Act of Guam as may be inconsistent with such constitution.
United States · United States Congress · 8 September 1975
Prohibits discrimination based on sex or marital status with respect to the sale or rental of housing under the Civil Rights Act and the National Housing Act.
United States · United States Congress · 5 September 1975
Expresses the sense of Congress that the officers and administrators of the various governmental institutions supported by public moneys should take steps to remove from facilities under their control all architectual barriers to the handicapped. Directs that funds for such efforts be taken from their discretionary funds.
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1975
Establishes the Office of Inspector General in the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare. Provides that the Inspector General Shall be appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate. Provides that the Inspector General shall investigate each program administered by the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare in order to determine if such program is administered in compliance with applicable laws and regulations and to recommend corrections of deficiencies in such program. Requires the Inspector General to report annually to Congress and the Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare. Provides that the Inspector General may secure any information that he deems necessary from any agency of the Federal Government. Gives the Inspector the power to hold hearings and issue subpenas as necessary to gather information. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1975
Emergency Medical Services Systems Act Amendments - Extends through fiscal year 1979, under the Emergency Medical Services Systems Act, the prohibition of grants or contracts made by the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, for the modernization of emergency facilities to States, units of local government, or other public service entities which did not receive a grant or contract for the same purpose the preceeding fiscal year. Authorizes the Secretary to make a second grant to or enter into a second contract with an eligible entity for the expansion and improvement of emergency medical services. Includes planning costs in the coverage of grants and contracts for expansion and improvement of emergency medical services. States that emphasis in awarding grants or contracts for research relating to the delivery of emergency medical services in rural areas should be placed on identifying and using techniques and methods to apply the results of such research. Authorizes recipients of grants or contracts for the: (1) establishment and operation; or (2) expansion and improvement of an emergency medical services system to use funds under such grant or contract for a training program related to such a system. Authorizes through fiscal year 1977 appropriations for the making of payments pursuant to grants and contracts for feasibility studies and planning in connection with the establishment and operation of an emergency medical services system. Authorizes through fiscal year 1980 appropriations for grants and contracts for the establishment and operation, and planning and improvement of such emergency systems. Directs that at least 20 percent of the funds appropriated be made available for feasibility studies and planning from 15 percent to 10 percent of the funds appropriated. Authorizes through fiscal year 1978 appropriations for the making of payments pursuant to grants and contracts for the support of research in emergency medical techniques, methods, devices, and delivery. Defines the duties of the unit established within the Department of Health, Education and Welfare for the administration of grants made and contracts entered into under the Emergency Medical Services Act. Directs the Secretary to make grants and enter into contracts with schools of medicine, dentistry, osteopathy, and nursing and similar institutions to assist programs of training in the field of emergency medical service. Authorizes through fiscal year 1980 appropriations for the making of payments pursuant to grants and contracts for such training programs. Directs the Secretary to conduct two studies in areas related to the improvement of emergency medical services.
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1975
Lobbying Equalization Act - Revises the Internal Revenue Code to permit tax exempt organizations to engage in lobbying without losing their tax exempt status.
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1975
Environmental Health Act - Provides that in any proceeding requesting equitable relief pursuant to any statute administered by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, or instituted at the request of the Administrator, other than a suit for review of a Federal administrative action, a showing by a party that any person is engaging in a course of conduct of discharging, emitting, or manufacturing any substance, where such conduct presents a reasonable risk of being a threat to public health, shall give rise to a rebuttable presumption that a threat to public health exists warranting the granting of such equitable relief as is deemed appropriate to protect the public against such threat. Provides that where a showing is made giving rise to a presumption pursuant to this Act, the person engaging in such course of conduct of discharging, emitting, or manufacturing shall have the burden of proving: (1) that in fact no threat to public health exists or that the risk of any such threat is negligible; or (2) that the physical and economic considerations in favor of such course of conduct outweigh all costs incident to the conduct, including any possible threat to public health.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1975
Indian Health Care Improvement Act - States that the Congress declares that it is the policy of this Nation, in fulfillment of its special responsibilities and legal obligation to the American Indian people, to meet the national goal of providing the highest possible health status to Indians and to provide existing Indian health services with all resources necessary to effect that policy. Defines the terms used in this Act. Title I: Indian Health Manpower - Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare acting through the Indian Health Service, to make grants to public or nonprofit private health or educational entities or Indian tribes or tribal organizations to assist such entities in meeting the costs of: (1) identifying Indians with a potential for education or training in the health professions and encouraging and assisting them; (2) publicizing existing sources of financial aid available to Indians enrolled in any medical or health-related school referred to in this Act or who are undertaking training necessary to qualify them to enroll in any such school; or (3) establishing other programs which the Secretary determines will enhance and facilitate the enrollment of Indians, and the subsequent pursuit and completion by them of courses of study, in any school referred to in this Act. Authorizes to be appropraited specified sums for each of the seven fiscal years commencing with that of 1977 for payment of such grants. Directs the Secretary, acting through the Service, to make scholarship grants for up to two years to Indians who: (1) have successfully completed their high school education or high school equivalency; and (2) have demonstrated the capability to successfully complete courses of study in schools of medicine, osteopathy, dentistry, veterinary medicine, optometry, podiatry, pharmacy, public health, nursing, or allied health professions. Authorizes appropriations for scholarship grants of $2,000,000 for fiscal year 1977; $2,500,000 for fiscal year 1978; and similar sums through fiscal year 1983. Directs the Secretary, acting through the Service, to make scholarship grants to individuals who are enrolled in schools of medicine, osteopathy, denistry, veterinary medicine, optometry, podiatry, pharmacy, public health, nursing, or allied health professions, and who agree to provide their professional services to Indians after the completion of their professional training. Authorizes appropriations for such grants of specified sums for the fiscal years 1977 through 1983, and of such sums as are necessary for the succeeding fiscal years, to continue to make scholarship grants under this Act to individuals who have received such grants prior to the end of the fifth fiscal year and who are eligible for such grants during each such succeeding fiscal year. Directs the Secretary, acting through the Service, to make grants to individuals, nonprofit entities, appropriate public or private agencies, educational institutions, or Indian tribes and tribal organizations to enable the recipients of such grants to establish and carry out programs to train individuals so as to enable them to provide their services to Indians. Authorizes to be appropriated specified sums to carry out such provisions for the fiscal years 1977 through 1983. States that the Secretary may provide allowances to health professionals employed in the Service to enable them for a period of time each year prescribed by regulation of the Secretary to take leave of their duty stations for professional consultation and refresher training courses. Title II: Health Services - Authorizes the Secretary to expend specific amounts of funds over a five-fiscal year period for the following health services: (1) patient care; (2) field health, excluding dental care; (3) dental care; (4) mental health; (5) provision of health care personnel in primary and secondary Bureau of Indian Affairs schools; and (6) maintenance and repair. Title III: Health Facilities - Authorizes the Secretary to expend $528,637,000 over a seven-fiscal year period in order to eliminate inadequate, outdated, and otherwise unsatisfactory service in hospitals, health centers, health stations, staff housing, and other service facilities. Authorizes the Secretary to expend $378,000,000 within a five-fiscal year period following the enactment of this Act, to supply unmet needs for safe water and sanitary waste disposal facilities in existing and new Indian homes and communities. Title IV: Access to Health Services - Provides that the Secretary may enter into agreements with the appropriate State agency for the purpose of reimbursing such agency for health care and services provided in Service facilities to Indians who are beneficiaries of the Medicaid provisions of the Social Security Act. Title V: Health Services for the Urban Indians - Directs the Secretary, acting through the Service, to enter into contracts with urban Indian organizations to assist such organizations to establish and administer, in the urban centers in which such organizations are situated, programs which meet the requirements set forth in this Act of making health services more accessible to the urban Indian population. Authorizes to be appropriated for the purpose of this title $5,000,000 for fiscal year 1977; $10,000,000,000 for fiscal year 1978; and $15,000,000 for fiscal year 1979. Title VI: Miscellaneous - Requires the Secretary to report annually to the President and the Congress on progress made in effecting the purposes of this Act. Authorizes appropriations to the Secretary of $150,000 to support a one-year study by the National Indian Health Board of mental health problems, including alcoholism and related problems, among Indians.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1975
Congressional Public Financing Act - Adds a new subtitle to the Internal Revenue Code: the Congressional Election Campaign Fund Act. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to maintain in the Presidential Election Campaign Fund a separate account to be known as the Congressional Election Payment Account. Directs the Secretary to deposit into the Congressional Election Payment Account that portion of the annual amounts designated by taxpayers on their income tax returns that equals the excess above 25 percent of the total amount made available in the last Presidential election. Authorizes the Federal Election Commission to conduct an examination and audit of the campaign contributions raised for purposes of obtaining matching funds and the qualified campaign expenditures made by all candidates for Federal office and official political party committees who received payments under this Act. Provides criminal penalties for violations of this Act. Provides for payments of funds in amounts matching the contributions received by candidates for the office of U.S. Senator or U.S. Representative. Imposes limitations on the amounts of such funds to be disbursed to any individual candidate, and restricts the uses to which such matching funds may be put.
United States · United States Congress · 30 July 1975
Federal Municipal Bond Guarantee Administration Act - Sets forth Congressional findings and purposes, and defines the terms used in this Act. Establishes a Federal Municipal Bond Guarantee Administration. Makes it the duty of the Administration to guarantee bonds issued by municipalities which are found by the Administration to be fiscally responsible, and which apply for guarantees for specific bond issues. Sets forth eligibility requirements for municipalities applying for guarantees under this Act. Establishes in the Treasury of the United States a Municipal Bond Guarantee Fund to carry out the provisions of this Act. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out this Act for fiscal year 1976.
United States · United States Congress · 25 July 1975
Provides that the Commodity Credit Corporation shall be the seller or marketing agent for all export sales of specified raw agricultural commodities. Authorizes the Corporation to acquire commodities on the domestic market to meet the objectives of this Act. Allows the Corporation to act upon the request of a producer or any other person as an exclusive marketing agent. States that the owner of the commodity may stipulate the minimum price below which the commodity can not be sold. Requires that a record of all terms and conditions of each export scale be made available for public inspection.
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 1975
Directs the National Commission on the Observance of International Women's Year, 1975, to organize and convene a national conference to be known as the National Women's Conference. Sets forth the composition and goals of the Conference. Grants the Commission powers necessary to carry out this Act. Requires that the Commission submit a report to the President and each House of Congress not later than 120 days after the conclusion of the conference. States that such report shall include findings and recommendations of the Conference. Authorizes the appropriation of not more than $10,000,000 to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 1975
Comprehensive National Health Care Act - States that the purpose of this Act is to create a system of national health care benefits which will make comprehensive health services available to all residents of the United States. Title I: National Health Care Program - Repeals title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act. Establishes a health care benefits program covering: (1) inpatient hospital services; (2) physicians' services; (3) medical and other health services; (4) home health services; (5) post-hospital extended care services; (6) outpatient drugs and biologicals; (7) routine dental services; (8) developmental vision care services, as defined in regulations, routine eye and vision examinations, and eyeglasses; (9) hearing aids and examinations therefor; (10) routine physical examinations and preventive services as defined in regulations; and (11) ambulance services in specified instances. Limits post hospital extended care services and home health care services coverage to one hundred and eighty days per year. Limits inpatient psychiatric hospital services to 45 days per year. States that every individual, without regard to race, sex, income or age, who is a resident of the United States shall be eligible for health care benefits. Directs the Social Security Administration to establish a separate account for each individual covered by this program. Requires the Social Security Administration to make payments to providers of services under the provisions of this Act. Sets forth conditions and limitations on payment for services. Allows payments for emergency hospital services furnished to individuals entitled to benefits under this Act. States that payment for major surgery and other specialized services may be made only when such services are furnished by specialists. States that payment may not be made for services furnished by a professional practitioner in a hospital which is not a participating provider of services, except for specified outpatient services. Establishes an area health care services board within each geographic area established by the Public Health Service Act. Enumerates regulations governing prospective payment methods under this Act. Requires providers of services to file on agreement with the Administration not to charge individuals for services for which the individual is entitled to have payment made under this Act. Authorizes the Administration to enter into contracts with carriers to perform specified functions. States that payment for services rendered by a physician shall be made in accordance with a single fee schedule applicable throughout the designated geographical area. Establishes a National Health Care Formulary Committee, consisting of the Commissioner of Food and Drugs and three other individuals. Directs the Committee to compile, publish, and make available a National Health Care Formulary containing an alphabetical list of drugs, including specific dosage forms and strengths. Establishes a National Health Care Trust Fund, and a Board of Trustees to govern such fund. Directs the Board to report to Congress annually on the status and operation of the Fund. Defines terms used in this title. Provides criminal penalties for violators of the provisions of this Act. Establishes a Provider Reimbursement Review Board to hold hearings on cost reports filed by providers of services, if such provider is dissatisfied with a final determination of his cost report. States that at such hearing, the provider of services shall have the right to be represented by Counsel. Creates a National Health Care Benefits Advisory Council to provide advice and recommendations for the consideration of the Administration with respect to this title. Directs the Administration to prescribe necessary regulations to carry out the provisions of this title. Imposes a special income tax to finance the health care program. Provides that one-half the amount paid may be taken as an income tax credit. Title II: Independent Social Security Administration - States that the purpose of this title is to strengthen the fiscal and administrative structure of the contributory social security programs. Establishes as an independent agency of the executive branch a Social Security Administration. States that the Administration shall administer the program established by this Act, in addition to the Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance program, and the black lung benefits program. Directs the Administration to study the most effective methods of providing economic security through social insurance. Requires the Administration to submit an annual report to Congress on its activities and recommendations for legislation. Abolishes the positions of Commissioners of Social Security. Title III: Miscellaneous Provisions - Provides that existing employer-employee health benefits plans shall be unaffected by this Act. Makes technical and conforming amendments to the Social Security Act.
United States · United States Congress · 23 July 1975
Federal Employees' Political Activities Act - Stipulates that it is the policy of the Congress that Federal employees should be encouraged to fully exercise, to the extent not expressly prohibited by laws, their rights of voluntary participation in the political processes of our Nation. Defines the terms used in this Act. States that an employee may not use his official authority or influence for the purpose of: (1) interfering with the result of any election; (2) intimidating or commanding any individual for the purpose of interfering with the right of any individual to vote as such individual may choose; or (3) influencing the giving or withholding a political contribution. Prohibits specified forms of solicitation by Federal employees. Provides for leave without pay for Federal employees engaging in activities relating to seeking elective offices. Establishes a Board on Political Activities of Federal Employees. Directs the Board to hear and decide cases brought under this Act. Directs the Civil Service Commission to investigate specified reports and allegations of activities prohibited by this Act. Provides penalties for violations of this Act. Directs the Civil Service Commission to conduct a program to inform all employees of their rights of political participation and to educate employees as to prohibited political activities.
United States · United States Congress · 23 July 1975
Provides under the Social Security Act that an Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance claimant shall be entitled to an informal conference reconsidering an initial adverse decision concerning such claimant's eligibility for benefits. Prescribes the procedures for such reconsideration hearings. Requires that such a hearing be presided over by an administrative law judge and conducted on the record.
United States · United States Congress · 23 July 1975
Authorizes the President to issue a proclamation designating Sunday, September 14, 1975, as "National Saint Elizabeth Seton Day" and calling upon the people of the United States to observe that day with appropriate ceremonies.
United States · United States Congress · 22 July 1975
Burn Facilities Act - Declares it to be the purpose of this Act to direct the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to establish an expanded program for the treatment of burn injuries, research on burns, and the rehabilitation of burn victims. Directs the Secretary to: (1) provide for the establishment of new burn treatment centers and the upgrading of burn units in general hospitals; (2) provide training and support of specialists to staff new and existing burn treatment facilities; (3) provide special training in emergency care of burn victims; and (4) sponsor other research and training programs related to the treatment of burn victims. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to assist the Secretary by providing information on existing burn treatment programs, and other information. Authorizes the appropriation of funds necessary for the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 22 July 1975
Congressional Campaign Financing Act - Establishes, within the Internal Revenue Code, procedures by which candidates for nomination for election, or for election to either House of Congress may receive payments of public funds in amounts matching contributions made to the candidates' nomination or election campaign funds. Defines terms used in the Act. Establishes, within the Presidential Election Campaign Fund, a separate Congressional election payment account. Sets forth procedures by which the Secretary of the Treasury may make payments from such account to the campaign funds of candidates certified by the Federal Election Commission as eligible to receive payments. Limits to $100 the amount of a contribution which an individual may make to one candidate's primary election campaign or to that candidate's general election campaign. Requires the Federal Election Commission to examine and audit the qualified campaign expenses of every candidate and to require the candidate to repay to the Secretary the amount of any excess payments made by the Secretary. Requires the Commission to report to Congress at the end of each Federal general election year on the qualified campaign expenses of each candidate, the amount paid to each candidate, and the amount of repayments required from candidates. Authorizes the Commission to bring action in any United States district court to recover any amounts deemed payable to the Secretary as the result of an audit. Establishes a criminal penalty consisting of a fine of up to $25,000, or 5 years in prison, or both for violation of the limitations on expenditures. Establishes a criminal penalty consisting of a fine of $10,000, or 5 years in prison, or both for knowingly using payments made pursuant to this act for unauthorized purposes. Establishes identical penalties for knowingly furnishing false information to the Federal Election Commission or for withholding information requested by the Commission, and for knowingly giving or accepting kickbacks or illegal payments.
United States · United States Congress · 22 July 1975
Truth in Government Act - Expressly makes Federal employees and elected officials criminally liable for knowingly and willfully making false statements in any matter within the jurisdiction of any department or agency of the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 22 July 1975
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President should convene the National Security Council in order to devise a viable strategy for combating the smuggling of opium and heroin from Turkey. Directs that a strategy report be submitted to Congress. Calls for the immediate suspension of all foreign assistance to Turkey until that government implements adequate controls to prevent smuggling into the U.S. of Turkish-grown or processed opium and heroin.
![Official portrait of Rep. Chisholm, Shirley [D-NY-12]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/c000371_200.jpg)