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United States · Official source
2,821 records where Rep. Clinger, William F., Jr. [R-PA-5] is listed as a sponsor, author, or other actor. Search with topics and years
United States · United States Congress · 3 February 1988
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to exempt from the required application of uniform inventory cost capitalization rules any animal produced in a farming business, regardless of the animal's preproductive period.
United States · United States Congress · 3 February 1988
Designates February 16, 1989, as Lithuanian Independence Day.
United States · United States Congress · 3 February 1988
Designates March 4, 1988, as Department of Commerce Day.
United States · United States Congress · 3 February 1988
Designates the month of November 1988 as National Alzheimer's Disease Month.
United States · United States Congress · 2 February 1988
Child Protection and Obscenity Enforcement Act of 1988 - Title I: Child Pornography - Amends the Federal criminal code to make it illegal to use a computer to transport information in interstate or foreign commerce concerning the visual depiction of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct (child pornography). Establishes criminal penalties for buying, selling, or transferring the custody of a minor: (1) knowing that, as a consequence of the sale or transfer, the minor will be used in child pornography; or (2) with the intent to promote child pornography. States that such sale or transfer must involve: (1) the minor or other actor traveling in interstate or foreign commerce; (2) communications in interstate or foreign commerce; or (3) conduct in a territory or possession of the United States. Requires any person who produces a book, magazine, periodical, film, videotape, or other matter which contains any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct (which is shipped or intended for shipment in interstate or foreign commerce, or contains material shipped in interstate or foreign commerce) to maintain certain records regarding the performers portrayed in such conduct. Directs the Attorney General to issue regulations regarding the maintenance and availability of such records. Includes the sexual exploitation of children as a predicate offense to the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) statute. Title II: Obscenity - Makes it a Federal criminal offense to receive or possess, with the intent to distribute, obscene matter which has been transported in interstate or foreign commerce. Makes it a Federal criminal offense to knowingly use a facility or means of commerce to sell or distribute obscene matter in interstate or foreign commerce. Establishes a rebuttable presumption, with respect to Federal criminal offenses involving obscene matter, that obscene matter produced in one State (or outside the United States) which is subsequently located in another State (or in the United States) was transported, shipped, or carried in interstate (or foreign) commerce. Establishes criminal and civil forfeiture procedures with respect to Federal offenses involving obscene material and child pornography. Includes communications by means of cable or subscription television within the prohibition against broadcasting obscene language. Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to modify the penalty provisions of such Act with respect to obscene telephone communications. Amends the Federal criminal code to establish criminal penalties for the possession or sale of obscene matter on Federal property. Adds obscenity offenses to the list of crimes for which the Government may obtain wiretaps.
United States · United States Congress · 2 February 1988
Designates the week beginning April 24, 1988, as Mining Awareness Week.
United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1988
Amends the Internal Revenue Code with respect to the excise tax on diesel and aviation fuels. Prohibits imposition of the tax on the sale of these fuels to any purchaser (or purchaser for resale to a second purchaser) for use on a farm for farming purposes or for any other use not as a fuel in a diesel-powered highway vehicle or train. (Although fuel sold for these purposes is tax-exempt under current law, provisions of the Revenue Act of 1987 require purchasers to pay the tax and subsequently apply for a refund based on nontaxable uses of the fuel.)
United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1988
Designates the week of May 8 through May 14, 1988, as National Osteoporosis Prevention Week of 1988.
United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1988
Commends the President, Secretary of State, and Administrator of the Agency for International Development for their response to the drought and food emergency in Ethiopia and other nations of sub-Saharan Africa, and urges them to continue efforts to preclude the onset of famine and to ensure the timely delivery of medical and other emergency relief supplies. Declares that: (1) the Government response to these food emergencies should include initiatives to prevent the dislocation of large numbers of persons across national borders and/or into relief camps; and (2) the plight of the refugees or displaced should be addressed by emphasizing the provision of basic human needs, such as food, water, and shelter.
United States · United States Congress · 20 December 1987
Requests and authorizes the President to designate June 6 through June 12, 1988, as National Fishing Week.
United States · United States Congress · 18 December 1987
Requires the Secretary of Commerce to ensure that during any decennial census: (1) no member of the armed forces, civilian employee of the Department of Defense, or dependent of such member or employee, is excluded based on such member or employee being assigned to a post outside the United States; and (2) any alien not lawfully admitted for permanent residence is not included.
United States · United States Congress · 18 December 1987
Designates the Federal building located at 405 South Tucker Boulevard, St. Louis, Missouri, as the Robert A. Young Federal Building.
United States · United States Congress · 18 December 1987
Local Government Infrastructure Financing Improvement Act of 1987 - Amends the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965 to direct the Secretary of Commerce to provide local governments technical assistance with respect to financing construction, repair, and expansion of public works facilities, including provision of information necessary to familiarize local governments about the use and availability of tax-exempt public works facility bonds for such financing. Requires the Secretary to report biennially to specified congressional committees on local government public works financing practices. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) raise from $5,000,000 to $25,000,000 the threshold amount of tax-exempt bonds that a small governmental unit may issue and still remain within the exception from arbitrage rebate requirements; and (2) increase from ten percent to 25 percent the amount of tax-exempt government bond proceeds that may be used by a nongovernmental entity for private purposes without triggering treatment of the bond issue as a taxable private activity bond. Limits the latter provision to governmental issuers whose reasonably anticipated amount of tax-exempt obligations to be issued during the calendar year is $25,000,000 or less. Caps at $25,000,000 the amount of bonds to which the issuer may apply the 25 percent private use test in any year.
United States · United States Congress · 17 December 1987
Requires the Office of Personnel Management to report, with recommendations, to the Congress on the problem of delays in processing applications for benefits under the Civil Service Retirement System. Directs the Office to examine: (1) current methods and procedures; (2) circumstances where it might be appropriate to provide interim benefits; (3) the feasibility of processing records, forms, and other matters in anticipation of an employee's retirement; and (4) the effectiveness of retirement counselors. Requires the report to contain a plan to allow an individual to go from regular pay to retirement or disability retirement pay without interruption.
United States · United States Congress · 15 December 1987
Comprehensive Health Care Improvement Act of 1987 - Title I: Qualified Health Insurance Plans - Part A: Definitions and Standards for Qualified Plans - Sets forth definitions used in this title. Defines a "plan of health coverage" as any plan or combination of plans, including combinations of self-insurance, individual accident and health insurance policies, group accident and health insurance policies, coverage under a nonprofit health service plan, or coverage under a health maintenance organization (HMO) subscriber contract. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish standards for qualified plans and procedures for the review and certification of plans of health coverage as qualified plans. Provides that a plan shall be certified as an "A" qualified plan if it meets any applicable State requirements with respect to accident and health insurance plans or nonprofit health service plans, and meets or exceeds the following minimum standards: (1) the minimum benefits for a covered individual are equal to at least 80 percent of the covered expenses in excess of an annual deductible not exceeding $250.00 per person; (2) the coverage includes a limitation of $3,000 per person on total annual out-of-pocket expenses for covered expenses; (3) the coverage is subject to no maximum life-time benefit; and (4) the $3,000 limitation (above) and the unlimited lifetime benefit limit (above) are not subject to change or substitution by use of an actuarially equivalent benefit. States that covered expenses are the usual and customary charges of a physician or chiropractor. Defines covered services as the following services and articles: (1) hospital services; (2) professional services for the diagnosis or treatment of injuries, illnesses, or conditions (other than outpatient mental or dental care) which are rendered by a physician or at a physician's direction; (3) drugs requiring a physician's prescription; (4) services of a nursing home for not more than 120 days a year if the services would qualify as reimbursable services under title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act; (5) services of a home health agency if the services would qualify as reimbursable services under title XVIII of the Social Security Act; (6) use of radium or other radioactive materials; (7) oxygen; (8) anesthetics; (9) prostheses, other than dental; (10) rental or purchase, as appropriate, of durable medical equipment, but not including eyeglasses and hearing aids; (11) diagnostic X-rays and laboratory tests; (12) oral surgery for partially or completely unerupted impacted teeth, for a tooth root without the extraction of the entire tooth, or for the gums and tissues of the mouth when not performed in connection with the extraction or repair of teeth; (13) services of a physical therapist; (14) transportation provided by a licensed ambulance service to the nearest facility qualified to treat the condition; (15) well baby care; (16) physicians' services for routine checkups and annual physicals when prescribed by a physician; (17) multiphasic screening and other diagnostic testing, within such reasonable limits on the reimbursement required for such services as the Secretary shall prescribe; (18) a second opinion from a physician on all surgical procedures expected to cost a total of $500 or more in physician, laboratory, and hospital fees, but the coverage need not include the repetition of any diagnostic tests for such an opinion; and (19) professional services of a chiropractor. Excludes from coverage: (1) any charge for which benefits are payable under any other type of insurance or compensation; (2) cosmetic surgery; (3) custodial or domiciliary care not qualifying under Medicare; (4) private rooms, except if medically necessary; (5) any part of any charge exceeding the locally prevailing charge; and (6) charges for services rendered by an individual or institution which are not within the individual's or institution's authorized scope of practice. Deems HMOs to be providing an "A" qualified plan. Certifies as a "B" qualified plan a plan which meets the requirements of an "A" plan, except that the annual deductible does not exceed $1,000 per person. Provides that a plan which provides benefits to persons over age 65 shall be certified as a qualified Medicare supplement plan if it limits annual out-of-pocket expenses to a maximum of $1,000 per person, is designed to complement or supplement Medicare, and provide coverage: (1) of 80 percent of the required Medicare deductibles and copayments; (2) of 80 percent of charges for covered services of an "A" qualified plan not paid under Medicare; and (3) which is not subject to a maximum lifetime benefit. Directs the Secretary, to the extent feasible, to provide for the review and certification by the insurance commissioner of each State of qualified plans to be offered in the State if the Secretary is provided assurances that such review and certification will comply with the requirements of this Act. States that the sale of plans are in and affect interstate commerce and that, in order to properly regulate such sales, it is necessary to regulate such sales in intrastate, as well as interstate, commerce. Requires every plan of health coverage sold to be labelled as "qualified" or "nonqualified" on the front of the policy. Requires each advertisement or promotion for a plan to specify whether the plan is "qualified" or "nonqualified." Part B: Requiring Offering of Certain Qualified Plans - Requires each employer employing an average of ten or more employees annually to make available a plan or combination of plans of health coverage which: (1) has been certified as an "A" or supplemental plan; (2) is a qualified convertible plan; and (3) permits coverage of an employee's spouse and children. Defines a "qualified convertible plan" as a plan of health coverage which: (1) permits each enrolled individual to convert the plan to an individual qualified plan without the addition of underwriting restrictions if, for any reason, the individual leaves the group; and (2) permits, in the case of the death of the individual in whose name the contract was issued, other individuals covered under the plan to continue coverage without the addition of underwriting restrictions. Sets forth civil penalties for noncompliance with this part. Excludes from the term "employee," for purposes of this provision, certain new, part time, part year, young, bargaining unit, and nonresident alien exployees. Part C: Offering of Comprehensive Health Insurance and Qualified Medicare Supplement Plans by States - Sets forth definitions used in this part. Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to require the establishment and operation of a comprehensive health association in each State and a comprehensive health plan in each State, in accordance with this part of this Act. Defines a "comprehensive health insurance plan" to mean policies of insurance and contracts of HMO coverage offered by an association through the writing carrier in the State. Defines the "writing carrier" as the insurers and HMOs approved to administer the comprehensive health insurance plan. Provides that each State commissioner of insurance, consistent with any regulations the Secretary may promulgate: (1) may formulate general policies to advance the purposes of this title; (2) shall supervise the creation of the State comprehensive health association; (3) shall approve the selection of the writing carrier by the association in the State and approve the association's contract with the writing carrier, including the State plan coverage and premiums to be charged; (4) may appoint advisory committees with respect to implementation of this part; (5) shall conduct periodic audits to assure the general accuracy of the financial data submitted by the writing carrier and the association in the State; (6) shall contract with the Federal Government and may contract with any other unit of government to ensure coordination of the State plan of the association with other governmental assistance programs; (7) may undertake, directly or through contracts with other persons, studies or demonstration programs to develop awareness of the benefits provided under this Act, so that residents of the State may best avail themselves of the health care benefits provided hereunder; (8) may contract with insurers and others for administrative services; and (9) may adopt, amend, suspend, and repeal rules as reasonably necessary to carry out and make effective the provisions and purposes of this part. Requires each State to provide for the establishment of a comprehensive health association with membership consisting of all insurers, self-insurers, fraternal beneficiary associations, other entities offering health policies, and HMOs authorized or licensed to do business in the State. Exempts each association from State taxation. Provides for a board of directors of each association. Requires that all members of an association: (1) maintain their membership in the association as a condition of doing accident and health insurance, self-insurance, or HMO business in the State; and (2) enter into a reinsurance contract with the association as required by this part. Exempts members of an association, in the performance of their duties as members, from Federal and State antitrust laws. Authorizes each association to provide for the reinsuring of risks incurred as a result of issuing qualified plans by members of the association. Requires each member which elects to reinsure its risks to determine the categories of coverage it elects to reinsure in the association. Provides that the categories consist of: (1) individual qualified plans, excluding group conversions; (2) group conversions; (3) group qualified plans with fewer than 50 employees or members; and (4) major medical coverage. Requires each association through its comprehensive health insurance plan to offer: (1) policies which provide the benefits of "A" and "B" qualified plans and of a qualified Medicare supplement plan; and (2) HMO contracts in those areas of the State where an HMO has agreed to make the coverage available and has been selected as a writing carrier. Requires the comprehensive health insurance plan for a State to be open for enrollment by individuals residing in the State, who can enroll by submitting a certificate of eligibility to the writing carrier which certifies the applicant's name, address, age, length of residence, dependents to be insured, and type of coverage desired. Provides that upon certification the individual can enroll in a State's comprehensive health insurance plan by payment of the State plan premium to the writing carrier. Requires each member of an association to share the claims expenses for approved plans and the operating and administrative expenses incurred by the association, pursuant to the terms of the individual reinsurance contracts executed by the association with each member. Sets forth a method to determine each member's share of expenses. Authorizes any member of an association in a State to submit for approval to the State commissioner the policies of accident and health insurance or the HMO contracts which are being proposed to serve in the comprehensive health insurance plan. Authorizes the association to select approved policies and a contract to be the comprehensive health insurance plan based upon the member's proven ability to handle large group accident and health insurance cases, claims paying capacity, and estimate of total charges for plan administration. Requires each writing carrier to: (1) perform all required administrative and claims payment functions; and (2) report monthly to the association and State commissioner. Exempts premiums received by a writing carrier for the comprehensive health insurance plan from State taxation. Requires each association in a State to disseminate information to State residents regarding the existence of the comprehensive health insurance plan and the means of enrollment. Requires each writing carrier to pay an agent's referral fee, in an amount to be determined by the association, to each insurance agent referring an applicant to the State comprehensive health insurance plan, if the application is accepted. Title II: Program of Assistance to States for Assisting Low-Income Individuals to Purchase Comprehensive Health Insurance - Comprehensive Health Insurance Assistance Act of 1987 - Adds a new title XXI to the Social Security Act entitled "Grants to States for Assistance to Low-Income Individuals in the Purchase of Comprehensive Health Insurance." Authorizes appropriations under title XXI to enable each State to provide assistance to low-income individuals in the purchase of comprehensive health insurance under title XXI. Specifies the amount authorized for each fiscal year. Requires the sums made available under this title to be used to make payments to States which have submitted, and had approved by the Secretary, State plans for comprehensive health insurance assistance to low-income individuals. Directs the Secretary to pay each State with an approved plan, from the sums appropriated, an amount equal to 50 percent of the sums expended which are attributable either to assistance under the plan to low-income individuals or to plan administration. Prohibits such amount, during any quarter, from exceeding the product of $1.88 and the State's population. Requires a State plan for comprehensive health insurance assistance to low-income individuals, in order to be approved by the Secretary, to: (1) be in effect in all political subdivisions of the State; (2) provide for financial participation by the State equal to at least 40 percent of the non-Federal share of the expenditures under the plan with respect to which payments that are authorized by title XXI, and provide for financial participation by the State equal to all of such non-Federal share or provide for distribution of funds from Federal or State sources, for carrying out the State plan on an equalization or other basis which will assure that the lack of adequate funds from local sources will not result in a lowering of assistance; (3) provide for the designation of an appropriate State agency to administer the plan; (4) prevent the disclosure of information for purposes not connected with the plan; (5) provide for reports to the Secretary; (6) make assistance available to low-income individuals to purchase plans; (7) establish reasonable standards for determining eligibility for and the extent of assistance; (8) make available the opportunity to apply for assistance to any individual; and (9) grant an opportunity for a fair hearing before a State agency to any individual whose claim for assistance under the plan is denied or not acted upon with reasonable promptness. Prohibits payments to a State if, after notice and opportunity for a hearing, the Secretary finds that a State's plan is not in compliance with provisions of this Act. Sets forth civil and criminal penalties for false statements, misrepresentations, concealments, and conversions made in connection with the application for, sale of, or receipt of benefits under a plan. Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to provide for special treatment in determining the eligibility for medical assistance of an institutionalized spouse. Declares that the provisions supersede any other provision of such title and that no comparable treatment is required. Sets forth rules for treatment of income and resources. Protects income for the community spouse by requiring certain allowances to be offset from the income of the institutionalized spouse and by requiring each State to establish a minimum monthly maintenance needs allowance for each community spouse. Provides for notice and fair hearing regarding a determination of eligibility, the amount of the community spouse monthly income allowance, the amount of any family allowances, and the method for computing the amount of the community spouse resources allowance. Permits an institutionalized spouse to transfer certain resources to the community spouse. Requires the State plan for medical assistance to provide for a period of ineligibility for institutionalized spouses who disposed of resources during the 24-month period before applying for assistance for less than fair market value. Sets forth exceptions to the requirement: (1) for homes or other resources transferred to the individuals's spouse or child who meets certain requirements; (2) on a showing of intent to dispose of the resources at fair value or for other valuable consideration; (3) on a showing that the transfers were exclusively for a purpose other than to qualify for medical assistance; and (4) if denial would work an undue hardship. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to study and report to the Congress regarding the means for recovering amounts from the estates of deceased Medicaid beneficiaries to pay for certain assistance furnished. Title III: Program of Assistance to States for Assisting Individuals Who Incur Catastrophic Expenses for Health Care - Catastrophic Health Care Expenses Assistance Act of 1987 - Amends the Social Security Act to add a new title XXII entitled "Grants to States for Assistance to Individuals Incurring Catastrophic Expenses for Health Care." Authorizes appropriations for each fiscal year to enable each State to furnish medical assistance for catastrophic illness. Requires a State to have submitted and have approved by the Secretary a plan for medical assistance for catastrophic illness. Directs the Secretary to pay each State with an approved plan, from the sums appropriated, an amount equal to 50 percent of the sums expended which are attributable either to payments made under the plan to eligible individuals or to plan administration. Prohibits such amount, during any quarter, from exceeding the product of $0.625 and the State's population. Prohibits payment with respect to expenses: (1) if the charges on which the expenses are based are not reasonable; (2) for inpatient hospital services if the charge exceeds the hospital's customary charge; (3) for health services which were not medically necessary; (4) for services provided by a provider not in compliance with appropriate regulations; (5) for services provided by a hospital or skilled nursing facility if the appropriate utilization review plan is not in effect; or (6) for which a private insurer would be obligated but for a provision in its contract which limits its obligation if an individual is covered under this title. Declares that a State plan for medical assistance for catastrophic illness, in order to be approved by the Secretary, shall: (1) be in effect in all political subdivisions of the State; (2) provide for financial participation by the State equal to at least 40 percent of the non-Federal share of the expenditures under the plan with respect to authorized payments under title XXII, and provide for financial participation by the State equal to all of such non-Federal share or provide for distribution of funds from Federal or State sources, for carrying out the State plan on an equalization or other basis which will assure that the lack of adequate funds from local sources will not result in a lowering of assistance; (3) provide for the designation of an appropriate State agency to administer the plan; (4) prevent the disclosure of information for purposes not connected with the plan; (5) provide for reports to the Secretary; (6) provide for paying at least 90 percent of all qualified expenses annually of an eligible individual and the individual's dependents in excess of the greater of $3,000 (or a lower amount which the State may establish) or the sum of 30 percent of household income under $25,000, plus 40 percent of household income between $25,000 and $40,000, plus 50 percent of household income in excess of $40,000 (or such lower respective percentages, or such higher incomes, as the State may establish); (7) provide for paying 100 percent of all qualified nursing home expenses of an eligible individual and the individual's dependents in excess of 20 percent of household income (or such lower percentage as the State may establish); (8) prohibit charging any premiums, copayments, or deductibles, except as provided above; (9) provide safeguards against excessive charges and the unnecessary utilization of services; (10) establish reasonable standards for determining eligibility for and the extent of assistance; (11) make available the opportunity to apply for assistance to any individual; (12) grant an opportunity to apply before a State agency to any individual whose claim for assistance under the plan is denied or not acted upon with reasonable promptness; (13) seek reimbursement from any legally liable third party; and (14) provide that payment for services shall be made only to providers and beneficiaries. Prohibits payments to a State if, after notice and opportunity for a hearing, the Secretary finds that a State's plan is not in compliance with the provisions of this Act. Sets forth definitions used in this title. Defines an "eligible individual" as an individual who incurs an obligation to pay, in a consecutive 12-month period, expenses (including dependent's expenses) exceeding the greater of $3,000 (or such lower amount as the State may establish) or 30 percent of household income up to $25,000, plus 40 percent of household income between $25,000 and $40,000, plus 50 percent of household income in excess of $40,000 (or such lower respective percentages of such incomes, or of such higher incomes as the State may establish). Sets forth civil and criminal penalties for false statements, misrepresentations, concealments, and conversions made in connection with the application for or right to the assistance provided under this title.
United States · United States Congress · 11 December 1987
Long Term Care Incentives Package - Title I: Tax Credit for Maintaining a Household for Dependents Who Have Attained Age 65 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) to allow a nonrefundable income tax credit to individuals who maintain a household in which a dependent aged 65 or older resides. Applies the credit to the full amount paid or incurred for maintaining the household for the dependent individual. Reduces the credit (but not below zero) when the taxpayer's gross income exceeds $50,000. Limits the credit to a $100 per month per qualified dependent. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to prepare and submit to specified congressional committees a report detailing the administrative problems and revenue cost in connection with such a credit. Title II: Tax Credit for Contributions to Health Care Savings Account - Amends the IRC to permit individuals (employees or self-employed individuals) and employers to contribute to health care savings accounts. Limits the annual contribution to an amount no greater than the combined employee and employer hospital insurance (Medicare) payroll tax paid during that year. Provides that the employee or self-employed individual and the employer will each receive a 50 percent tax credit for their respective portion of hospital insurance payroll tax paid. Provides that a health care savings account shall be exempt from income taxes, except for the tax on certain unrelated business income, unless the account ceases to be a proper health care savings account because the beneficiary either engages in prohibited transactions or pledges the account as security. Excludes from the gross income of the distributee any amounts distributed from the account as long as they are used for medical expenses while the individual is eligible for Medicare. Permits the tax-free rollover of contributions from one health care savings account to another for the benefit of the distributee. Imposes a ten percent penalty on early distributions from a health care savings account. Provides that no amount distributed out of a health care savings account may be taken as a medical expense deduction. Imposes a tax on any excess contributions to such accounts. Imposes a penalty tax on prohibited transactions involving a health care savings account. Imposes a five percent tax on any distribution from a health care savings account in the taxable year that reduces the level of all such accounts with respect to the distributee below the total value of health care savings account tax credits for the distributee. Provides exceptions for certain distributions. Imposes a 100 percent tax on such distributions if the relevant transactions are not corrected within the taxable period. Imposes a 50 percent excise tax on the difference between the value of a decedent's health care savings account at the time of death and the amount contributed into the spouse's health care savings account at the time of, and on account of, such death. Establishes penalties for failure to file required reports with respect to health care savings accounts. Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to provide that in the case of an individual who has established a health care savings account, the total amount of any Medicare benefits that will be paid with respect to the individual will be reduced by a health care savings account-related deductible for the year, as described in this Act. Provides special rules for individuals who cannot obtain insurance at the standard premium rates to cover their added deductible. Provides that these high cost insurance beneficiaries' added deductible be reduced by a proportion reflecting 80 percent of the excess premium required above the standard rate, but not below 120 percent of the individual's health care savings account annuity amount. Establishes catastrophic health care expense protection for certain individuals qualifying for Medicare protection. Requires such individuals to have contributed at least one-third of the maximum amount possible over the course of their careers into a health care savings account and at least $100 (indexed for inflation) or 50 percent of the maximum contribution per year, whichever is greater, in ten individual years. Treats surviving spouses without a separate health care savings account as eligible for the catastrophic coverage if the deceased spouse was formerly eligible for catastrophic coverage and the surviving spouse rolls 100 percent of the health care savings account of the deceased spouse into a health care savings account. Title III: Tax Provisions Related to Long-Term Care Insurance - Amends the IRC to require that, for the purpose of determining the income tax liability of life insurance companies, qualified long-term care insurance be treated as accident or health insurance. Applies this provision to policies to provide coverage for at least 12 consecutive months of diagnostic, preventive, therapeutic, rehabilitative, or personal care services required by an individual aged 50 or older and provided in a setting other than an acute care unit of a hospital. Requires issuers of such insurance to be reinsured by the Federal National Long-term Care Reinsurance Corporation if such Corporation is incorporated as of January 1, 1990. Provides that for the purpose of determining whether a tax exclusion applies to employer contributions to, or an employee's receipt of benefits from, qualified long-term care insurance, such contributions and benefits shall be considered to be for personal injury or sickness and for medical care. Excludes from gross income: (1) amounts withdrawn from an individual retirement plan to pay for long-term care insurance for a distributee who has attained age 59 1/2 by the date of the distribution or for a spouse meeting the same age requirement; and (2) amounts received when an individual aged 65 or older surrenders, cancels, or exchanges a life insurance policy and uses the proceeds to pay for long-term care insurance for himself or herself or for a spouse meeting the same age requirement. Title IV: Federal National Long-Term Care Reinsurance Corporation - Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to provide for the incorporation of the Federal National Long-Term Care Reinsurance Corporation (Corporation), which shall not be an agency or establishment of the U.S. Government. Requires the Corporation to confine its activities to reinsuring insurance companies for extraordinary loss in the issuance or payment of qualified long-term care insurance benefits. Sets forth organizing and administrative provisions with respect to the Corporation. Exempts the Corporation from State regulation and taxation, except for taxes on real property. Directs the Corporation to report annually to both the President and the Congress regarding its activities.
United States · United States Congress · 10 December 1987
Amends Federal veterans' benefits provisions to direct the American Battle Monuments Commission to establish a memorial and museum on Federal land in the District of Columbia or its immediate area to honor World War II veterans and to commemorate U.S. participation in that conflict. Directs the Commission to plan, design, construct, and oversee the operation of the memorial and museum. Establishes the World War II Memorial and Museum Advisory Board to: (1) promote the establishment of the memorial and museum and encourage the donation of private funds for construction and maintenance; and (2) recommend the site and select the design for the memorial and museum, subject to the approval of the Commission. Authorizes the Commission to solicit private contributions for such memorial and museum. Authorizes Federal funding, in addition to such private funds, for preparation, planning, establishment, construction, and maintenance of the memorial and museum. Authorizes assistance from specified Federal departments and agencies. Authorizes Federal property to be transferred to the Commission, or authorizes the Commission to purchase suitable property within the District of Columbia for the establishment of such memorial and museum.
United States · United States Congress · 10 December 1987
Expresses the gratitude of the U.S. Government to Ray A. Barnhart, retiring Federal Highway Administrator, for his efforts to preserve and improve the Federal-Aid Highway System.
United States · United States Congress · 9 December 1987
Amends the Federal Financing Bank Act of 1973 to state that specified loan guarantee agreements between the Rural Electrification Administration and the Federal Financing Bank shall remain in effect, notwithstanding their effective dates, until superseded by other such agreements.
United States · United States Congress · 9 December 1987
Expresses the sense of the Congress that railroad retirement benefits are exempt from reduction under the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act) and that supplemental annuities payable under the Railroad Retirement Act of 1974 and sequestered under a specified presidential order should be restored.
United States · United States Congress · 8 December 1987
Federal Capital Budget Act of 1987 - Requires the budget submitted by the President to be a unified budget composed of a separate capital budget (representing only the major activities, projects, and programs which support the acquisition, construction, and rehabilitation of capital assets) and a separate operating budget (representing all other activities, projects, and programs). Sets forth informational requirements with respect to the unified budget. Requires the Comptroller General to review implementation of this Act and to report to the Congress on the appropriateness of the $500,000 threshold for classifying items under the capital budget section of the unified budget. Amends the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965 to require the Secretary of Transportation, the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works, and the Administrator of the General Services Administration to report to the House Committee on Public Works and Transportation and the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works at the account and function levels, the actual, estimated, and proposed appropriations, receipts, and expenditures for capital and operating activities associated with: (1) roadways, airports, and transportation systems; (2) waste water treatment facilities; (3) water resource projects; and (4) public buildings.
United States · United States Congress · 8 December 1987
Expresses the sense of the Congress that, in celebration of the millennium of the Christianization of Kievan-Rus', the Soviet Union should: (1) comply with its international obligations and allow Christians to practice their faith without harassment; (2) grant a general amnesty for all Christians who have been imprisoned because of their religious beliefs; (3) allow religious believers to practice their faith freely; (4) permit unlimited publication, distribution, and importation of religious materials; and (5) allow closed churches to reopen, new churches to be built, and theological seminaries to open or expand.
United States · United States Congress · 2 December 1987
Designates the week of April 10 through April 16, 1988, as National Productivity Improvement Week.
United States · United States Congress · 20 November 1987
Commemorates the bicentennial of the ratification of the U.S. Constitution by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
United States · United States Congress · 18 November 1987
Dwight David Eisenhower Commemorative Coin Act of 1987 - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to mint and issue not more than a specified number of one dollar silver coins in commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the birth of Dwight David Eisenhower. Sets forth certain features of such coins and provides for their design, issuance, and sale. Terminates the minting of the coins after December 31, 1990. Requires the Secretary to deposit in the Treasury all surcharges received from the sale of the coins, to be used to reduce the national debt.
United States · United States Congress · 17 November 1987
Designates the week of February 7 through February 13, 1988, as National Child Passenger Safety Awareness Week.
United States · United States Congress · 10 November 1987
Directs the Secretary of Commerce to adjust census figures as necessary so that illegal aliens shall not be counted for purposes of the apportionment of Representatives in the Congress.
United States · United States Congress · 10 November 1987
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President, the Secretary of State, and the Permanent Representative of the United States to the United Nations should be commended for, and should continue, their efforts to place Cuba on the human rights agenda of the United Nations. Commends specified countries for their votes in favor of considering human rights violations in Cuba. Urges specified countries to reconsider their positions with respect to this issue. Urges the United States to: (1) take the votes into account in determining U.S. bilateral and other assistance to all countries which are members of the United Nations Human Rights Commission; and (2) continue to emphasize how other countries vote on fundamental issues, such as human rights, in determining financial support for the United Nations and for the Commission. Urges the Commission to include among the highest priorities of its human rights agenda at its 44th session in Geneva, Switzerland, in 1988, consideration of human rights violations in Cuba.
United States · United States Congress · 28 October 1987
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) raise from $5,000,000 to $25,000,000 the threshold amount of tax-exempt bonds that a small governmental unit may issue and still remain within the exception from arbitrage rebate requirements; and (2) increase from ten percent to 25 percent the amount of tax-exempt government bond proceeds that may be used by a nongovernmental entity for private purposes without triggering treatment of the bond issue as a taxable private activity bond. Limits the latter provision to governmental issuers whose reasonably anticipated amount of tax-exempt obligations to be issued during the calendar year is $25,000,000 or less. Caps at $25,000,000 the amount of bonds to which the issuer may apply the 25 percent private use test in any year.
United States · United States Congress · 28 October 1987
Designates the week of November 13 through November 19, 1988, as National Cult Awareness Week in commemoration of the tenth anniversary of the tragedy at Jonestown, Guyana.
United States · United States Congress · 21 October 1987
Video Privacy Protection Act of 1987 - Amends the Federal criminal code to make any person who wrongfully discloses video tape rental or sale records liable for civil damages.
United States · United States Congress · 20 October 1987
Declares congressional support for the President's policy of protecting freedom of navigation in the Persian Gulf and restoring the peace and security of the region through continued diplomatic initiatives, cooperation with U.S. allies in the region, and appropriate military actions. Expresses the sense of the Congress that: (1) U.S. armed forces in the Gulf should continue to have the authorization to respond expeditiously in a defensive manner to military actions which immediately threaten the safety of U.S. personnel, shipping under the U.S. flag, and other U.S. interests; and (2) the President should continue to consult the leadership of the Congress to the maximum extent practicable before authorizing military responses to attacks in the Gulf and should report to the Congress in a timely manner on incidents involving U.S. forces in the Gulf.
United States · United States Congress · 15 October 1987
Designates the period of August 1 through August 8, 1988, as National Harness Horse Week.
United States · United States Congress · 13 October 1987
Omnibus Taxpayers' Bill of Rights Act - Requires the Secretary of the Treasury (Secretary) to prepare a statement setting forth in nontechnical terms: (1) the rights and obligations of a taxpayer and of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) during a tax audit; (2) the procedures by which a taxpayer may appeal adverse decisions, prosecute refund claims, and file complaints; and (3) the procedures that the IRS may use in enforcing revenue laws. Directs the Secretary to transmit drafts of such statement to specified congressional committees and to distribute the final statement to all taxpayers receiving annual tax filing forms from the IRS. Requires the IRS, upon taxpayer request, to conduct any interview regarding the determination or collection of any tax at a reasonable time and place convenient to the taxpayer and to the IRS, and to permit the taxpayer, at his or her own expense, to record the interview. Authorizes the IRS interviewer to record such interview if the taxpayer has been given prior notice and is provided, upon request and payment of reproduction costs, with a transcript of the recording. Requires the interviewer to explain to the taxpayer the audit process, including the taxpayer's rights with respect to the process. Requires the Secretary to abate any penalty or interest imposed on any deficiency attributable to erroneous advice in writing given to a taxpayer by an IRS officer or employee in response to such taxpayer's specific inquiry. Authorizes the IRS Ombudsman, upon application filed by a taxpayer, to issue a Taxpayer Assistance Order if, in the determination of the Ombudsman: (1) the taxpayer is suffering or is about to suffer from an unusual or irreparable loss as a result of the manner in which the internal revenue laws are being administered by the Secretary; and (2) the Secretary has failed to carry out any of his or her duties or has violated any provision of law. Allows the terms of a Taxpayer Assistance Order to require the Secretary to release property of the taxpayer levied upon or to cease or refrain from certain actions. Requires the Secretary to obey any Taxpayer Assistance Order issued by the Ombudsman. Directs the Secretary, within 90 days of this Act's enactment, to issue regulations with respect to Taxpayer Assistance Orders, including provisions to assure full, fair, and impartial due process for affected taxpayers. Amends the Inspector General Act of 1978 and other Federal law to establish within the Department of the Treasury an Office of Inspector General. Transfers to such Office the existing audit and investigation units of the Department. Sets forth criteria with respect to: (1) the authority of the Inspector General to conduct an investigation; and (2) the authority of the Secretary in cases of audits or investigations requiring access to information of a sensitive or confidential nature. Allows the Secretary to prohibit investigations under specified circumstances. Restricts disclosure by the Inspector General of tax returns and return information. Prohibits records of tax enforcement results from being used to evaluate certain IRS personnel or to impose or suggest production quotas. Requires district directors to certify compliance with this mandate on a monthly basis. Requires the Secretary to certify that a rule proposed by the IRS is substantially the only alternative that meets the mandate of the relevant statute in order for the rule to be considered an interpretative rule (and thereby not subject to analyses under the Regulatory Flexibility Act). Amends the Regulatory Flexibility Act to require regulatory flexibility analyses to include consideration of both the direct and indirect beneficial and negative effects of a proposed or final rule. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to direct the Secretary, with limited exceptions, to send a preliminary letter of deficiency to a taxpayer prior to the mailing of a deficiency notice. Specifies required contents for tax due notices and deficiency notices, including the basis of the deficiency and a breakdown of the total amount into tax, interest, and penalty. Directs the Secretary, within 90 days of this Act's enactment, to issue regulations requiring all IRS personnel to explain and support their position in assessing any penalties or additions to tax. Requires the Comptroller General to study IRS procedures with respect to such assessments and to present findings to specified congressional committees no later than December 31, 1988. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into a binding agreement with a taxpayer under which the taxpayer may pay tax liability in installments if the Secretary determines that such an agreement will facilitate collection of the liability. Permits the Secretary, after proper notice and a hearing, to modify or annul the agreement upon the finding that the financial condition of the affected taxpayer has significantly changed. Renders such an agreement nonbinding if the taxpayer fails to pay any installment or any other tax liability when due. Extends from ten to 30 days the period between the required notice to a person who neglects or refuses to pay tax liability and a levy on such person's salary, wages, or other property. Specifies information that must be incorporated in such notice, including possible alternative actions and the appropriate appeals procedures. Adds to the circumstances triggering termination of such a levy: (1) an agreement between the taxpayer and the Secretary for payment of the liability; and (2) the Secretary's determination that the taxpayer's financial condition precludes enforceability of the liability. Revises the list of property exempt from levy to: (1) increase the exempt amount permitted for certain personal effects, the property of a business, and wages; (2) add an exemption for certain deposits in qualified institutions; and (3) provide an express exemption, except under limited circumstances specified in this Act, for the taxpayer's principal residence, a motor vehicle used by the taxpayer as the primary means of transportation to work, and any tangible personal property essential to the operation of the taxpayer's business in cases when a levy would prevent the taxpayer from carrying on such business. Prohibits a levy on any property when levy and sales expenses would exceed either the liability for which the levy is made or the fair market value of the levied property. Permits the Secretary to demand surrender of bank accounts only after 21 days in escrow have passed since service of the notice of levy on the accounts. Sets forth situations in which the Secretary must release a levy. Applies to jeopardy levies the administrative and judicial review procedures currently applicable to jeopardy assessments. Permits a taxpayer to bring a civil action against the United States in the Tax Court for judicial review of jeopardy levies and assessments. (Under current law an action for judicial review of jeopardy assessments may be filed only in district court.) Increases the time during which a taxpayer may petition for such review. Describes the jurisdictional requirements to be applied to such actions. Allows an administrative appeal of tax liens. Grants to the Tax Court exclusive jurisdiction to enjoin premature assessments if the taxpayer has filed a timely petition for review. Provides for review of such injunctive orders by the U.S. Court of Appeals. Grants to the Tax Court jurisdiction to enforce payment by the Secretary of refunds of overpayment and interest to taxpayers. Places on the Secretary the burden of proof of justifying any failure to refund, credit, or offset relevant amounts with respect to a taxpayer. Entitles a prevailing taxpayer to: (1) an interest rate of 120 percent of the overpayment rate with respect to refunds; and (2) reasonable litigation costs. Grants to the Tax Court jurisdiction to: (1) review jeopardy assessment sales of assets; and (2) redetermine interest under certain circumstances when a taxpayer claims an overpayment of the interest. Vests in the Tax Court original jurisdiction over any civil action against the Secretary for the recovery of any tax, additions to tax, and penalties with respect to income, estate, gift, and certain excise taxes. Authorizes an award of reasonable litigation costs to the prevailing party in proceedings by taxpayers before the Internal Revenue Service. Permits a taxpayer to bring a civil action in district court for actual damages resulting from the failure of any Federal officer or employee to release a tax lien on the taxpayer's property. Permits a civil cause of action in district court for damages resulting from the careless, reckless, or intentional disregard of internal revenue laws by any Federal officer or employee. Denies damage awards in cases of contributory negligence. Authorizes a damage award, to a $10,000 maximum, to the United States in cases of frivolous or groundless claims by a taxpayer. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to prescribe criminal penalties for: (1) any investigation or surveillance authorized or conducted by an officer or employee of the United States in connection with Federal tax laws that inquires into the beliefs, associations, or activities of any individual or organization; or (2) the maintenance of any records containing information derived from such an investigation. Establishes in the Internal Revenue Service the Office for Taxpayers Services, under the supervision of an Assistant Commissioner of Internal Revenue. Directs this Assistant Commissioner to: (1) be responsible for telephone, walk-in, and educational services, and for the design and production of tax and information forms; and (2) prepare annually, for presentation to specified congressional committees, a joint report (with the Chief Problem Resolution Officer for the IRS) on the quality of taxpayer services.
United States · United States Congress · 13 October 1987
Department of Veterans Affairs Act - Redesignates the Veterans Administration (VA) as the Department of Veterans Affairs (the Department), an executive department within the executive branch of the Government. Provides that the Department shall be headed by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, to be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Designates as other principal officers of the Department the Deputy Secretary, the Chief Medical Director, and the Chief Benefits Director. Provides for the temporary continuation of service of the current Administrator, Deputy Administrator, Chief Medical Director, and Chief Benefits Director of Veterans Affairs. Establishes within the Department eight Assistant Secretaries, each of whom shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, to perform such functions as the Secretary may prescribe. Directs the Secretary to assign to one such Assistant Secretary all functions regarding the National Cemetery System and the State cemetery grant program. Outlines functions which the Secretary shall assign to the Assistant Secretaries. Provides for the temporary continuation of the performance of such functions by present personnel until such functions are assigned to an individual appointed as Assistant Secretary under this Act. Redesignates the current VA's Department of Medicine and Surgery as the Veterans Health Services Administration of the Department. Redesignates the VA's current Department of Veterans Benefits as the Veterans Benefits Administration of the Department, whose primary function shall be to administer nonmedical programs which provide assistance to veterans, their dependents, and their survivors. Establishes within the Department the Office of the General Counsel. Redesignates the current Office of Inspector General of the VA as the Office of Inspector General of the Department. Provides that any references to departments or positions under the current VA system shall be considered to be references to such departments and positions of the Department as modified under this Act. Provides continuing effect of all legal documents, suits, actions, and property and resources of the current VA. Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, after appropriate congressional consultation, to prepare and submit to the Congress proposed legislation containing technical and conforming amendments to reflect the changes made under this Act. Requires such legislation to be submitted no later than six months after the enactment of this Act. Provides that any spending authority of the Department is subject to available amounts as provided in appropriation Acts.
United States · United States Congress · 8 October 1987
Poultry Producers Financial Protection Act of 1987 - Amends the Packers and Stockyards Act, 1921 to remove live poultry handlers from marketing practices regulation under such Act. Establishes a statutory trust for the benefit of unpaid cash sellers or poultry growers which consists of the assets of live poultry dealers with average annual live poultry sales, or average annual value of poultry obtained by purchase or growing arrangement, greater than $100,000. States that a dishonored payment instrument shall not be considered as payment. Provides that an unpaid cash seller or poultry grower shall lose such trust benefit if he or she fails to give written notice of nonpayment or dishonored payment within specified time periods to the poultry dealer and then by filing such notice with the Secretary of Agriculture. Provides a cause of action for violations under such Act relating to poultry sales, purchases, or growing arrangements. Eliminates poultry handler recordkeeping provisions. States that the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) shall have power and jurisdiction over all (marketing) transactions in commerce of poultry products. States that the Secretary may exercise jurisdiction over poultry products in prompt payment or trust proceedings (as established by this Act) in order to avoid impairment of the Secretary's jurisdiction. Requires the Secretary to: (1) notify the FTC of any intended action; and (2) not proceed further if notified within ten days that an FTC proceeding is pending involving the same subject matter. Authorizes the Secretary to seek injunctive relief for nonpayment of live poultry transactions, including growing arrangements. Requires poultry dealers to pay poultry producers within the following time limits: (1) for a cash sale, full payment by the close of business on the day after the sale; and (2) for a growing arrangement, full payment within 15 days after the week of slaughter. States that a payment delay or attempted delay shall be considered an "unfair practice" violation under such Act. Directs the Secretary, whenever he has reason to believe that a poultry dealer has violated the prompt payment or trust provisions created by this Act, to issue a written complaint and hold a hearing at least 30 days after service of the complaint. Authorizes the Secretary to issue a cease and desist order, and also to assess a civil penalty of up to $20,000 per violation, if he finds the dealer in violation of such provisions. Makes the Secretary's order final unless a poultry dealer files an appeal with the appropriate court of appeals within 30 days after service. Subjects a poultry dealer or his agents to fines of between $1,000 and $20,000 for failure to comply with the Secretary's order. Repeals title V of the Packers and Stockyards Act, 1921.
United States · United States Congress · 6 October 1987
Amends the Tariff Schedules of the United States to suspend the duty on N-Methyl aniline and M-Chloro aniline through December 31, 1990.
United States · United States Congress · 1 October 1987
Federal Employees' Political Activities Act of 1987- Prohibits an employee from using or attempting to use official authority or influence to interfere with or affect the result of any election. Prohibits an employee from using or attempting to use official authority to intimidate, threaten, coerce, command, or influence: (1) any individual for the purpose of interfering with the right of any individual to vote as the individual may choose, or of causing any individual to vote, or not to vote, for any candidate or measure in any election; (2) any person to give or withhold any political contribution; or (3) any person to engage, or not to engage, in any form of political activity. Prohibits an employee from using or attempting to use, or permitting the use of, any official information unless such information is available to the general public. Prohibits an employee from: (1) giving or offering to give a political contribution to any individual either to vote or refrain from voting, or to vote for or against any candidate or measure, in any election; (2) soliciting, accepting, or receiving a political contribution to vote or refrain from voting, or to vote for or against any candidate or measure, in any election; or (3) giving or handing over a political contribution to a superior of the employee. Prohibits an employee from soliciting, accepting, or receiving, or from being in any manner concerned with soliciting, accepting, or receiving, a political contribution: (1) from another employee (or a member of another employee's immediate family) with respect to whom the employee is a superior; or (2) in any room or building occupied in the discharge of official duties by a Federal employee or official or an individual receiving salary or compensation from the Treasury. Prohibits an employee from soliciting, accepting, or receiving a political contribution from, or giving a political contribution to, any person who: (1) has, or is seeking to obtain, contractual or other business or financial relations with the employing agency; (2) conducts operations or activities which are regulated by that agency; or (3) has interests which may be substantially affected by the performance of the employees' official duties. Directs the Special Counsel of the Merit Systems Protection Board to prescribe regulations which exempt employees from such prohibitions. Prohibits an employee from engaging in political activity: (1) while on duty; (2) in any room or building occupied in the discharge of official duties by a Federal employee or official; (3) while wearing a uniform or official insignia identifying the office or position of the employee; or (4) while using any vehicle owned or leased by the Government. Exempts certain high level political appointees from such prohibitions if the costs associated with the political activity are not paid for by money derived from the Treasury. Describes such a political appointee as one: (1) whose duties and responsibilities continue outside normal duty hours and while away from the normal duty post; (2) who is paid from an appropriation for the Executive Office of the President; (3) whose position is located within the United States; and (4) who determines policies to be pursued by the United States in its relations with foreign powers or in the nationwide administration of Federal laws. Authorizes leave without pay or accrued annual leave to an employee who is a candidate, upon request, to allow such employee to engage in activities relating to that candidacy. Declares that such request may be denied if the exigencies of the public business so require. Declares that such employee may be required to take leave without pay or accrued annual leave in order to be a candidate if activities relating to the candidacy interfere with the employee's performance of duties. Directs the Special Counsel to prescribe rules and regulations to implement this Act. Applies this Act to postal employees and employees of the Postal Rate Commission.
United States · United States Congress · 1 October 1987
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the Soviet Union's test of ballistic missiles near Hawaii has increased rather than decreased the risk of nuclear war. Condemns the Soviet Union for its actions regarding such test. Declares that the U.S. Government should officially protest such actions. States that the President should report to the Congress concerning the details of such test, the Soviet explanations offered, steps that will be taken to ensure that such a test will not happen in the future, and what effect an SDI system could have against a missile launched in similar proximity to the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 23 September 1987
Crimes Against Older Americans Information and Coordination Act of 1987 - Directs the Attorney General to modify the uniform crime reporting program in the Federal Bureau of Investigation to include data on the age, sex, ethnicity, living arrangements, and other characteristics of the victim and the perpetrator, including any relationship between them, for crimes against the elderly. Directs the Attorney General to establish and maintain within the Justice Department's Office of Justice Programs a National Reference Center on Crimes Against Older Americans which shall: (1) publish an annual report of research conducted on crimes against the elderly; (2) develop and maintain an information reference service on all private and public initiatives for the prevention and identification of such crimes; (3) study the national incidence of such crimes, comparing rural and urban areas; (4) serve as a liaison with the various Federal agencies that carry out programs for the elderly; and (5) provide technical assistance to individuals and to private and public organizations to reduce and prevent crimes against the elderly.
United States · United States Congress · 23 September 1987
Designates October 1, 1988, as National Quality First Day.
United States · United States Congress · 22 September 1987
Designates the Federal building at 324 West Market Street, Greensboro, North Carolina, as the L. Richardson Preyer Federal Building.
United States · United States Congress · 22 September 1987
Designates a segment of the Appalachian development highway system known as Corridor V (within Alabama State boundaries) as the Robert E. (Bob) Jones, Jr. Highway.
United States · United States Congress · 22 September 1987
Amends Federal law regarding the exemption authority of the Interstate Commerce Commission with respect to rail carriers to prohibit the waiving of a rail carrier's obligation under the Railway Labor Act or collective bargaining agreements. Sets forth a separation allowance schedule for employees adversely affected by the disposition of certain rail carrier lines. Establishes a ceiling for such separation allowance of $30,000 (periodically adjusted for inflation). Entitles such employees to the right of first hire in seniority order to a substantially equivalent position by the rail carrier obtaining the rail lines from such employees' previous rail carrier employer. States that such separation allowance and right of first hire apply to: (1) certain financial assistance offers to avoid rail abandonment and discontinuance; and (2) specified actions for which the Commission grants an exemption.
United States · United States Congress · 22 September 1987
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that colleges and universities should demand drug-free environments on campus and should enforce strict but fair policies to eliminate drug use by students with the support of parents, students, and the community.
United States · United States Congress · 22 September 1987
Amends rule XXI of the Rules of the House of Representatives to prohibit consideration of bills or resolutions making appropriations under the jurisdiction of more than one subcommittee of the Appropriations Committee for periods after November 30 of a fiscal year, unless a 60 percent majority of the House votes to waive or suspend this provision.
United States · United States Congress · 21 September 1987
Elder Cottage Housing Opportunity Act - Amends the Housing Act of 1959, the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968, and the National Housing Act to provide assistance for the purchase and installation of elder cottage housing opportunity units.
United States · United States Congress · 16 September 1987
Amends part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to limit the rate of increase of the part B premium to the rate of increase of part B benefits.
United States · United States Congress · 10 September 1987
Amends the Internal Revenue Code with respect to the corporate income tax exclusion of contributions to the capital of the taxpayer. Includes as a qualifying contribution any amount of money or property received by a regulated public utility (a utility required to provide electric energy, gas, water, or sewage disposal services) that: (1) is a contribution in aid of construction (as defined by regulations to be promulgated by the Secretary of the Treasury); (2) meets certain expenditure requirements; and (3) is not included in the taxpayer's rate base. Excludes amounts paid as customer connection fees.
United States · United States Congress · 7 August 1987
AFDC Employment and Training Reorganization Act of 1987 - Title I: Two-Tier System under AFDC program - Amends part A (Aid to Families with Dependent Children) (AFDC) of title IV of the Social Security Act to establish a two-tier system under which a family applying for or receiving AFDC benefits is assigned to the first tier if it is not a two-parent family and includes a child under six months of age and to the second tier if the family does not qualify for tier-one. Exempts first tier families from this Act's registration, employment, and training requirements. Exempts caretaker relatives, and authorizes the exemption of adolescents, in tier-two families who do not have a high school diploma or its equivalent from such requirements if they participate in a program providing a high-school education or its equivalent. Requires a State plan to deny assistance to an individual under age 18 who is not and has never been married and who is responsible for the care of a dependent child (or is pregnant), unless such individual lives with a parent. Makes such requirement inapplicable if: (1) such individual has no parent who is living and whose whereabouts are known; (2) the health and safety of the child or individual would be jeopardized if such individual lived with the parent; or (3) such individual has not lived at home for at least one year prior to the child's birth or making a claim for AFDC payments. Title II: Comprehensive Employment and Training Program - Requires AFDC applicants and recipients to register with a State agency for employment counseling, training, and assignment. Authorizes AFDC recipients to refuse employment which results in a net loss in their income. Directs each State to: (1) establish a single intake and registration process for AFDC applicants and recipients; and (2) arrange for the participation of AFDC recipients in one or more of the work-related programs established under title IV of the Act or other Federal law, while coordinating such programs to enhance the availability and efficiency of services provided. Authorizes each State to: (1) make an assessment as to whether immediate employment is a realistic possibility or whether training or education is needed to prepare registered applicants and recipients for employment; (2) provide applicants and recipients with counseling regarding their prospects and needs; (3) require AFDC applicants to undertake an immediate program of job search; and (4) develop an employment plan for each AFDC recipient. Requires States to provide AFDC recipients who are assigned to employment, training, or education programs, and applicants who are required to participate in job search, with child care and transportation services, otherwise such applicants and recipients need not participate in such programs. Sets the Federal share of AFDC employment, training, and education costs in excess of FY 1987 costs at 50 percent. Establishes participation standards which require State AFDC employment, training, and education programs to include a specified annual percentage (increasing from 15 percent in FY 1988 to 70 percent in FY 1996 and thereafter) of a State's mandatory AFDC population. Requires 80 percent of such population within the ages of 16 and 18 to be attending school on a full-time basis by FY 1990. Reduces Federal funding for States which fall short of such participation standards. Authorizes appropriations for AFDC employment, training, and education programs. Expresses the congressional intent that such funding be increased after FY 1988 if and to the extent such programs prove successful in reducing welfare dependency. Ensures that each State receive at least as much funds for such programs in FY 1988 and 1989 as it did in FY 1987. Provides that after FY 1989 50 percent of such funds shall be allotted on the basis of a State's share of the total participating AFDC population and 50 percent on the basis of the relative success of each State in placing high-priority AFDC applicants and recipients (high school dropouts, unwed mothers with children under age three, and AFDC recipients under age 22) in school or jobs for six months or more. Requires Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and Guam to each implement a coordinated program of activities affording individuals the opportunity to achieve self-sufficiency through employment. Authorizes appropriations for such programs for each fiscal year after 1987. Makes this Act's registration, employment, and training requirements inapplicable to such territories. Establishes, in the Office of Family Assistance, an Office of Work Programs headed by a Director responsible for overseeing the operation and effectiveness of this Act's employment and training programs. Sets forth recordkeeping and reporting requirements. Authorizes States to add the cash value of food stamps to AFDC payments which are divided by the greater of the Federal or State minimum wage in determining the number of hours a community work experience program participant who is a recipient of such benefits may be required to work. Title III: Certificate System for Child Care - Authorizes States to establish a program providing certificates for child care to families: (1) whose income is less than 150 percent of the Federal poverty level; (2) which have received AFDC benefits within the past three months, but are no longer eligible for such aid because of increased earnings; and (3) which are paying for from ten to 90 percent of the cost of such child care. Limits the applicability of such certificates to the child care necessary to permit their recipients' employment or search for employment. Provides for Federal reimbursement of program costs as though they were costs incurred in providing child care to individuals assigned to an AFDC employment, training, and education program. Requires providers participating in the child care certificate program to be licensed or certified by the State, but certain providers shall be given two years to comply with State licensing or certification requirements. Requires States to disseminate information regarding child care and the certificate program to parents, the public, and child care providers. Limits the certification program's administrative expenses to eight percent of the program costs which are subject to Federal reimbursement. Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to withhold Federal payments for certificate program costs upon a State's substantial failure to comply with program requirements. Sets forth reporting requirements. Title IV: Child Support Enforcement Amendments - Amends part D (Child Support and Establishment of Paternity) of title IV of the Social Security Act to direct States to establish binding guidelines for child support award amounts. (Currently, such guidelines need not be binding). Creates a rebuttable presumption that the child support award resulting from the application of such guidelines in a judicial or administrative child support proceeding is correct. Requires States to review and update all child support orders at least once every two years to ensure that they continue to comply with child support award guidelines. Amends part A (General Provisions) of title XI of the Act to authorize up to ten States to carry out demonstration projects which require absent parents who owe child support, but whose income is insufficient to pay such support to participate in an employment or training program. Amends part D of title IV of the Act to require that the names and social security numbers of the father and mother of every child born in a State be recorded on such child's birth certificate. Requires States to adopt certain procedures with regard to paternity determinations and the standard of proof in paternity cases. Takes a State's paternity determinations into account in computing the State child support collection incentive payment. Requires each State to adopt procedures: (1) requiring employers to disclose certain information to the State child support enforcement agency regarding any employee who is under court order to pay child support; and (2) making certain legislation regarding the interstate enforcement of child support effective in the State. Provides that when the State in which the custodial parent resides requests the State in which the absent parent resides to modify a support order, the latter State shall not have jurisdiction to modify any other aspect of the order. Requires that by October 1992 every State have in effect an operational child support management information system. Reduces the Federal share of the costs for such systems. Requires the withholding of child support payments from the non-custodial parent's wages upon the issuance or modification of a child support order unless both parents agree in writing to an alternative arrangement or the parent paying child support posts a bond equal to six months of child support. Requires that the Parent Locator Service and the State agency administering the State child and spousal support plan be given access to all employment security information which is in the possession or control of any Federal or interstate telecommunications network or is available through any other data exchange method, and is to be used for child support enforcement purposes. Directs the Secretary to develop and publish standards within one year of this Act's enactment for the amount of time a State may take to complete each of several actions in child support cases. Penalizes States which fail to comply with such standards. Makes this title's amendments effective one year after this Act's enactment. Directs the Comptroller General to evaluate State implementation of this title's amendments and report to the President and the Congress regarding such evaluation within four years of this Act's enactment. Title V: State Demonstration Programs - Requires States that wish to conduct demonstration programs which include Federal, federally-assisted, or non-Federal public programs designed to alleviate poverty to submit filings regarding such demonstrations to an Interagency Low-Income Opportunity Board which shall select and approve those demonstrations judged worthy of implementation. Sets forth policy goals to be considered by the Board in selecting and evaluating such demonstrations. Directs that special consideration be given to demonstration programs designed to: (1) improve methods of helping welfare recipients achieve economic independence; (2) coordinate employment and training programs currently supported by Federal or State funds; (3) establish paternity and obtain child support orders in AFDC cases for which paternity was not established when the case was opened; (4) facilitate efforts by nongovernmental organizations to help welfare clients achieve economic independence. Requires a Governor or his designee to submit a filing which describes in detail the demonstration program to be conducted, including: (1) employment-related activities required of individuals receiving assistance under the demonstration and the circumstances in which they will not be required to participate in such activities; (2) procedures for determining the initial and continuing eligibility of, and benefits for, individuals and families; (3) a budget setting forth the amounts and sources of funding for the demonstration. Requires each Federal department or agency with responsibility for a program which is included in the demonstration program to make an estimate of Funding which, but for the demonstration, would be available for such programs so that the Chairman may compare State budgetary assumptions with such estimate. Provides that when the amount of Federal funds necessary to carry out the demonstration is less than the amount contained in the budget by reason of the effectiveness of the demonstration in achieving the objectives of this title, the State may use excess Federal funds to improve the demonstration or otherwise benefit individuals and families included in the demonstration. Provides that those within a class eligible to participate in a demonstration shall only be eligible for benefits under a program included in such demonstration. Requires the Board to conduct interim evaluations of, and have States submit annual reports on, demonstrations. Authorizes the submittal of demonstration changes for congressional approval if such changes improve the likelihood of accomplishing this title's objectives and participant benefits are not thereby reduced. Authorizes State Governors or the Chairman of the Board to terminate the demonstration (upon giving the Chairman or Governor at least three months advance notice) if the interests of the Federal Government, the State, or the participating individuals would be better served by returning to the separate conduct of the included programs. Requires a Governor, within six months of the completion of a demonstration, to submit a final report on such demonstration to the Board. Directs the Chairman to report annually to the Congress on demonstrations. Directs the Board, after selecting and approving demonstration programs in accordance with criteria it establishes, to prepare a single demonstration proposal containing all information pertinent to the programs selected. Provides that the proposal shall be submitted to the Congress and become effective unless the Congress passes legislation modifying or rejecting the proposal within 60 days after its submission by the Board. Title VI: Evaluation of Employment and Training Programs and State Demonstration Programs - Directs the Secretary to convene an Interagency Panel within three months of this Act's enactment which shall design, implement, and monitor a series of studies assessing the methods and effects of the programs initiated under titles II and V of this Act. Requires the Panel to select an advisory board of not more than 12 members, within six months of this Act's enactment, to provide the Panel with advice and counsel on all aspects of its operation. Requires the Panel to ensure that a study of child care during the welfare-to-work transition period is conducted during the first three years of its operation. Sets forth Panel reporting requirements. Authorizes appropriations for the Panel. Title VII: Miscellaneous and Related Provisions - Authorizes the Secretary to approve a five-year demonstration project testing Washington State's Family Independence Program as an alternative to the AFDC program.