United States · United States Congress · 23 March 1988
Marine Research Act of 1988 - Amends the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act of 1972 to authorize the establishment of Regional Marine Research Centers (Centers) to plan, coordinate, and support research, monitoring, and assessment activities concerned with the quality of the marine environment. Authorizes the Governors of a majority of States in a marine research region to develop and submit for approval to the Marine Research Coordination Board (Board) a combined, interstate proposal for a Center which identifies the research organizations which will participate in the Center and the goals of such Center. Identifies the marine research regions as the Gulf of Maine, Greater New York Bight, Mid-Atlantic Bight, Tropical, Gulf of Mexico, Southern California Bight, North Pacific, Gulf of Alaska and Arctic Seas, Insular Pacific, and Great Lakes Regions. Requires each Center to develop and submit for the Board's approval every three years a marine research plan which: (1) identifies research needs and priorities in the region over the next ten years; (2) inventories all federally-funded projects regarding the marine environment expected to be conducted in the region during the three-year term of the plan; (3) explains the means by which the Center will select and supervise projects to be funded under this Act; (4) describes each project expected to be assisted with appropriations authorized pursuant to this Act; and (5) lists the equipment and supplies used commonly for research projects in the region. Authorizes the Board to make annual administrative, research, and equipment grants to Centers which submit applications for such grants. Sets forth reporting requirements. Requires each Center to support baseline monitoring of fundamental marine environmental conditions and submit periodic reports on the status of marine environmental quality and resources in the region to the Board. Requires that such reports be made available to the public, State Governors, and local, State, and Federal agencies. Authorizes the establishment of the Marine Research Coordination Board at the Federal level to manage and coordinate the efforts of the Centers and report periodically to the Congress on the activities and findings of such Centers. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1989 through 1993.
United States · United States Congress · 23 March 1988
Includes incurred expenses for medical or remedial care that are not subject to payment by a third party within an individual's income when determining his or her eligibility or level of assistance under title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act.
United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1988
Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation Commercialization and Development Act - Requires the Secretary of Energy to establish specific technical research and development performance goals for Department of Energy programs relating to: (1) photovoltaics; (2) wind; (3) solar thermal; (4) biofuels; (5) solar building and energy systems; (6) ocean energy systems; and (7) geothermal energy. Mandates that such goals be designed to promote significant further commercial applications by 1995. Requires the Secretary to report annually to the Congress with respect to biennial technical performance goal reviews and updates. Requires the Secretary to include in the FY 1990 budget request funding for at least three commercial demonstration projects involving renewable energy technologies. States that 50 percent of such project costs shall be funded by the United States and 50 percent shall be funded by the private sector. Cites circumstances under which the United States may fund up to 66 percent of such project costs. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1989 through 1991 for: (1) specified renewable energy programs; (2) energy conservation research and development programs; and (3) a Federal interagency working group (established under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to make recommendations regarding the coordination of Federal programs affecting commerce in renewable energy products and related services). Requires that each annual submission of the National Energy Policy Plan be accompanied by a three-year strategic plan for energy technology research, including energy efficiency and renewable energy.
United States · United States Congress · 17 March 1988
Designates January 26, 1989, as Sean MacBride Day, marking the 85th anniversary of the birth of the late Sean MacBride, cofounder of Amnesty International and sponsor of the MacBride Principles opposing religious discrimination in Northern Ireland.
United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1988
Reproductive Health Equity Act - Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act, the Indian Health Care Improvement Act, the Peace Corps Act, the District of Columbia Self-Government and Governmental Reorganization Act, and other Federal laws covering armed forces personnel and dependents, certain veterans, Federal employees' health benefits, and Federal penal and correctional institutions to provide that services related to abortion be made available in the same manner as are other pregnancy-related services under federally funded programs.
United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1988
Requests the President to issue a proclamation commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Javits-Wagner-O'Day Act, which occurs on June 25, 1988. (The Javits-Wagner-O'Day Act, formerly known as the Wagner-O'Day Act, provides employment and ancillary support services to blind and handicapped individuals.)
United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1988
Postal Reorganization Act of 1988 - Declares that the receipts and disbursements of the Postal Service Fund: (1) shall not be included in the totals of the Federal budget or the congressional budget; (2) shall be exempt from Federal budget limitations on expenditures and net lending; and (3) shall not be counted for purposes of calculating the Federal deficit. Repeals certain limitations on postal borrowing authority. Increases the limitations on postal borrowing authority.
United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1988
Condemns the failure of the National Governing Council of Haiti to support a constitutional transition to democracy, to provide security for the Haitian people, and to respect internationally recognized human rights. Declares it to be the policy of the United States to: (1) demonstrate the disapproval of the United States of those elements in Haiti responsible for the failure to restore genuine democratic government in accordance with the Haitian Constitution (approved March 29, 1987); (2) encourage a transition to democracy through the holding of free and fair elections; (3) promote respect for human rights in Haiti; (4) continue to support efforts of the Haitian people to achieve economic development and social justice; (5) deny benefits to the Government of Haiti until there has been a transition to democracy; and (6) recognize that Haiti is a major point for the transshipment of illicit drugs. Suspends the provision of any type of foreign assistance to Haiti. Allows an exception for specified types of assistance, including emergency and humanitarian assistance. Provides that the United States shall use its vote and influence in relevant international financial institutions to oppose any loan or any extension of financial or technical assistance to Haiti, unless such assistance is directed to programs which serve the basic human needs of the citizens of Haiti. Prohibits the extension of certain trade benefits to Haiti, including: (1) treatment as a beneficiary country for purposes of the Caribbean Basic Economic Recovery Act; (2) treatment as a beneficiary developing country for purposes of the Generalized System of Preferences; and (3) specialized tariff treatment of articles exported to and returned from Haiti. Prohibits the importation from Haiti of any sugars, sirups, or molasses whenever any limitation is otherwise imposed on such importation. Prohibits the selling or leasing of any defense articles or defense services to Haiti under provisions of the Arms Export Control Act. Requires any U.S. Government agency to: (1) take into account the general policy of the United States to deny benefits to Haiti until a transition to democracy has occurred before taking any action with respect to Haiti that is not explicitly addressed by this Act; and (2) report to the Congress any decision to take such action. Requires the President to develop and transmit to the Congress a comprehensive plan for supporting individuals and institutions in Haiti committed to advancing democracy. Specifies the objectives to be considered in developing such a plan. Terminates sanctions imposed by this Act only after the Congress: (1) determines that the Haitian Constitution is being fully adhered to by a Government chosen in free elections; and (2) repeals such sanctions. Allows the President to suspend certain sanctions temporarily if he certifies to the Congress that Haiti is making significant progress toward establishment of a democratic government. Requires the President to periodically report to the Congress on the progress made toward the policy objectives of this Act. Requires the President to submit a report to the Congress which: (1) explains why Haiti has not been treated as a major-drug-transit country for purposes of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 and the Trade Act of 1974; and (2) states whether Haiti cooperated fully with respect to illicit drug trafficking. Repeals existing restrictions on assistance to Haiti as contained in the Foreign Operations, Export Financing, and Related Programs Act, 1988.
United States · United States Congress · 10 March 1988
Nuclear Investigations Improvement Act of 1988 - Amends the Energy Reorganization Act of 1974 to establish within the Nuclear Regulatory Commission the Office of Investigations, to be headed by a Director of Investigations who shall be appointed by, and report directly to, the Commission. Confers responsibility upon the Office to investigate violations within the Commission's jurisdiction where information indicates that such violations were either willfully caused or the result of careless disregard for regulatory requirements. Requires the Director to report violations of Federal criminal law to the Commission and to the Justice Department. Requires Commission employees to report to the Office information indicating that violations were either willfully caused or were the result of careless disregard for regulatory requirements.
United States · United States Congress · 10 March 1988
Inspector General Act Amendments of 1988 - Amends the Inspector General Act of 1978 to establish in the Nuclear Regulatory Commission the Office of Inspector General. Authorizes the Chairman of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to delegate supervision of the Inspector General to another member of the Commission, but to no one else.
United States · United States Congress · 10 March 1988
AIDS Health Care Financing Act of 1988 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA), and the Public Health Service Act to extend the maximum required period of continuation coverage of group health plans from 18 months to 29 months for an individual determined, under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) or title XVI (Supplemental Security Income) of the Social Security Act, to have been disabled at the time of termination or reduction in hours. Increases the premium which plans are permitted to require for continuation coverage from 102 percent to 152 percent of the applicable premium for the period for any month after the 18th month of continuation coverage after terminations, reduced hours, or multiple qualifying events. Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to permit States to pay expenses of an individual eligible for benefits under its plan for premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, or similar costs for health coverage offered by the individual's employer, including continuation coverage. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to provide for a three-year program of grants to States to assist in paying premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, and similar costs for continuation coverage for individuals who were disabled at the time of termination of employment. Sets forth reporting requirements. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1989 through 1991. Provides that when the Secretary allows a State Medicaid plan to provide for payment for individuals with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) or an AIDS-related condition, for home or community-based services such as home health care, personal care services, case management services, outpatient mental health treatment, and outpatient substance abuse treatment, the Federal medical assistance percentage shall not be less than 75 percent. Declares that nothing in title XIX of the Social Security Act shall be construed as preventing a State from establishing differential payment rates for providers to reflect the additional costs of providing services to patients with AIDS or an AIDS-related condition. Directs the Secretary to provide for up to four Regional AIDS Treatment Demonstration Projects for individuals with AIDS and AIDS-related conditions in areas which do not have a disproportionate number of such individuals. Requires the projects to incorporate innovative approaches to the delivery of necessary services, particularly focusing on community-based services. Requires each project to provide for case management services and community-based services. Sets forth considerations in selection of projects. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1989 through 1991. Sets forth reporting requirements. Directs the Secretary to establish up to six Demonstration HIV Monitoring and Treatment Centers for individuals diagnosed as infected with a virus related to the development of AIDS but who have not developed AIDS. Sets forth terms and conditions relating to the imposition of charges for services, the development of model clinical treatment plans, and confidentiality of records. Sets forth reporting requirements. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1989 through 1991. Directs the Secretary to provide financial assistance to up to four local projects which have established AIDS prevention and treatment services to permit the projects to assist entities in developing and establishing similar local projects in other areas. Allows the assistance to be used for staff, overhead, and the preparation and reproduction of educational materials. Prohibits use of the assistance for AIDS prevention and treatment services. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1989 through 1991. Directs the Secretary to provide financial assistance to local governments which demonstrate a disproportionate share of: (1) residents with AIDS or an AIDS-related condition; or (2) expenditures from local funds for treatment of such syndrome or condition. Sets forth reporting requirements. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1989 through 1991.
United States · United States Congress · 10 March 1988
Title I: Housing and Urban Development - Makes FY 1988 supplemental appropriations for the following Department of Housing and Urban Development homeless programs authorized by the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act: (1) single room occupancy dwelling rehabilitation; (2) emergency shelter grants; (3) supportive housing demonstration program; and (4) supplemental assistance for facilities to assist the homeless. Makes FY 1988 supplemental appropriations for the Federal Emergency Management Agency's emergency food and shelter program. Title II: Health and Human Services - Makes FY 1988 supplemental appropriations for the following Department of Health and Human Services homeless programs authorized by the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act: (1) health services; (2) community mental health services (alcohol, drug abuse, and mental health); and (3) emergency community services.
United States · United States Congress · 10 March 1988
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the Secretary of Transportation (the Secretary) should: (1) investigate the management of Texas Air Corporation and Eastern Air Lines since the acquisition of Eastern by Texas Air to determine (according to prescribed guidelines) the effect of such management upon the public interest; (2) use the investigation findings as a basis for decisions in pending and future cases involving proposed changes in domestic and international operations of Eastern; (3) not authorize the operation of any entity as a subsidiary of Texas Air in performing any air transportation operations until completion of a review to determine whether such performance is consistent with the public interest; (4) not authorize any Texas Air subsidiary to engage in air transportation until the application for such certificate has been reviewed; (5) not authorize Orion Air to provide contract services with Eastern unless Orion establishes conclusively its capability of conducting such operations with the highest degree of safety; (6) not expedite consideration of Orion's request to operate under contract with Eastern by diverting employees of the Department of Transportation or the Federal Aviation Administration from their responsibilities of ensuring the safety of previously authorized operations; and (7) require, as a condition of any approval of Orion's request to operate under contract with Eastern, that purchasers of tickets for such service must be informed at the time of making reservations of the identity of the carrier having operational responsibility for such service.
United States · United States Congress · 9 March 1988
American Heritage Trust Act of 1988 - Title I: American Heritage Trust - Establishes the American Heritage Trust, comprised of the Land and Water Conservation Fund and the Historic Preservation Fund, to provide funding for the preservation of America's natural, historical, cultural, and outdoor recreational areas. Title II: Land and Water Conservation Fund - Amends the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act to require the Secretary of the Treasury to invest a portion of the Land and Water Conservation Fund in public debt securities. Requires that the interest from such investments be used to provide for the preservation of the Nation's recreational areas. Sets forth a formula for the allocation of such interest income to the Federal Government and the States. Sets forth specified requirements with respect to the apportionment of such income to local and State governments. Repeals a specified section concerning publicity and signing provisions. Title III: Historic Preservation Fund - Amends the National Historic Preservation Act to extend the Historic Preservation Fund through 2015. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to invest a portion of such Fund in public debt securities. Requires that the interest from such investments be used for the preservation of historic sites. Title IV: Miscellaneous Provisions - Requires the owner of any site that benefits from moneys derived from the American Heritage Trust to install a sign indicating that fact.
United States · United States Congress · 9 March 1988
Employer Reversion Moratorium Act of 1988 - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 to prohibit distributions to an employer, before October 1, 1989, of plan assets in connection with any single-employer defined benefit plan termination announced on or after March 9, 1988. Makes plan fiduciaries jointly and severally liable for breach of fiduciary duty unless assets distributed upon plan termination are either distributed to plan participants and beneficiaries or paid into a trust whose terms provide for final disposition in accordance with applicable law in effect on October 1, 1989. Requires the dissolution of such a trust and the distribution of its assets during the month of October 1989.
United States · United States Congress · 9 March 1988
Department of Energy Nuclear Facilities Safety Act of 1988 - Establishes the Federal Facilities Nuclear Safety Board (the Board) as an independent body in the executive branch. Empowers the Board to: (1) review and evaluate health and safety standards at each Department of Energy (Department) nuclear facility; (2) investigate events or practices at each facility which may adversely affect public safety; (3) review a facility's design and construction as it pertains to public health and safety; and (4) recommend to the Secretary of Energy (the Secretary) the health and safety measures needed to ensure adequate protection of the public. Grants the Board access to Department nuclear facility design and operational data. Authorizes the Board to: (1) establish reporting requirements which shall be binding upon the Secretary; and (2) enter into agreements with the National Research Council of the National Academy of Sciences (and non-Federal experts) to evaluate differences between Nuclear Regulatory Commission regulations and Department orders governing nuclear facilities. Requires the Secretary to cooperate fully with the Board and provide it ready access to facilities, personnel, and information requested by the Board to implement its mandate. Sets forth guidelines under which the Board's recommendations and the Secretary's decision to accept or reject them shall be publicized in the Federal Register and reported in writing to the Congress. Requires the Secretary to prepare plans to implement recommendations. Sets forth a review procedure for Board recommendations regarding a severe or imminent threat to public health and safety. Requires implementation of any such recommendations which the Secretary accepts. Requires the Board and the Secretary to report annually to the Congress regarding their respective activities. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1989 through 1993.
United States · United States Congress · 9 March 1988
Community Ratepayer Protection Act of 1988 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to repeal provisions that tax bonds issued as part of an issue if the amount of the proceeds to be used to acquire nongovernmental output property exceeds the lesser of five percent or $5,000,000. (Output property includes such facilities as electric generating and transmission systems and gas distribution systems.)
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1988
Makes specified congressional findings regarding the constitutionality of the Anti-Terrorism Act of 1987. (Such Act prohibits the Palestine Liberation Organization from establishing or maintaining an office in the United States.) Repeals such Act.
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1988
Nuclear Whistleblowers Protection Act Amendments of 1988 - Amends the Energy Reorganization Act of 1974 to prohibit employee reprisals for whistle blowing where an employee has: (1) notified the employer of a statutory violation; (2) opposed any unlawful practice; or (3) testified at any Federal or State proceeding regarding a statutory provision. Revises the definition of "employer" to include: (1) the Department of Energy; and (2) a contractor operating a Department of Energy facility. Extends from 30 days to one year the time period for filing an employee reprisal complaint. Provides that the remedies available to a complainant under other laws are not preempted by the remedies available under this Act. Requires the prominent posting of the provisions of this Act in any place of employment to which it applies. Authorizes the appropriate authorities to grant injunctive relief, compensatory damages, and exemplary damages. Sets forth sanctions for frivolous complaints.
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1988
Women in Development Act of 1988 - Requires the Administrator of the Agency for International Development (AID) to take specific steps to strengthen the Agency's women in development policy, including: (1) incorporating the active participation of local women and local women's organizations in its development activities; (2) instructing Agency staff and contractors to collect sex-disaggregated data and to insure that country strategies, projects, and programs are designed so that the percentage of women receiving assistance in proportion to the higher of their traditional participation in the targeted activities or their proportion of the population; (3) insuring that project and program evaluations include an assessment of the extent to which the project integrates women in the development process and of the project's impact on women; (4) increasing the number and responsibility of women in professional positions within AID; and (5) establishing within AID a task force on women in development. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to require that a minimum (currently, maximum) of $10,000,000 in funds made available for foreign assistance programs be used for programs to promote the participation and integration of women in the development process in developing countries. Requires the Administrator to report to the Congress annually on the implementation of this Act. Authorizes appropriations to be made available for the United Nations Development Fund for Women and the United Nations International Research and Training Institute for the Advancement of Women.
United States · United States Congress · 25 February 1988
Affordable Permanent Housing for the Homeless Act of 1988 - Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to increase FY 1988 budget authority for the following housing programs for the homeless: (1) section 8 (lower income housing assistance) certificates; (2) section 8 moderate rehabilitation, including assistance to handicapped homeless people; (3) public housing grants; and (4) rental rehabilitation. Requires the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to submit an annual report to the Congress regarding: (1) activities under this Act; and (2) the housing situation for homeless families with children.
United States · United States Congress · 22 February 1988
Economic Conversion Act of 1988 - Title I: Economic Stabilization and Revitalization Pilot Program - Amends the Defense Production Act of 1950 to authorize the President to make grants for job retraining programs and planning for alternative production required by the cancellation of major defense contracts (or reductions of $10,000,000 or more in the value of such contracts) during FY 1989 through 1993. Permits one grant for each defense contract cancellation or reduction. Requires the administration of such grants at the local level by a capable unit of general local government or, through default, by the collective bargaining agents of affected employees. Directs the President to make weekly economic adjustment assistance payments to employees affected by such a cancellation or reduction of a contract during FY 1989 through 1993. Sets forth a formula for determining the amount of such assistance, making allowances for unemployment compensation or public assistance received and health insurance coverage needed. Sets forth assistance application procedures and notification requirements. Makes available for such grants and assistance payments the amount of previously-appropriated funds which the United States will save as a result of the cancellation or reduction of a defense contract. Title II: Prenotification of Base Closures and Defense-Related Contract Cancellations - Directs the Secretary of Defense, acting through the Economic Adjustment Committee, to notify State and local governments and regional organizations within a specified period of time of the proposed realignment or closure of a military installation, the cancellation or termination of a defense contract, or the failure to proceed with an approved major weapon system program.
United States · United States Congress · 17 February 1988
Universal Voter Registration Act of 1988 - Entitles any eligible individual to register for any Federal election by mail, in person, or at the appropriate polling place on the day of an election. Declares that such individual may register in person at: (1) a designated place for such individual's current address; (2) any Federal, State, county, or municipal agency that serves the public directly; or (3) any private agency that voluntarily agrees to register voters. Provides that where a State maintains a system of voter registration, such State shall allow an individual to register to vote for elections held on the date of Federal elections, in the manner provided by an approved State plan. Requires such plan to include: (1) the voter registration form to be used for mail registration; (2) provisions for distribution of such forms; (3) election day voter registration; (4) voter registration in agencies which serve the public directly and at private agencies that voluntarily agree to register voters; (5) provisions for prompt notification of registration acceptance; (6) provisions to inform registrants about voting places and times; (7) registration confirmation to insure accurate, inclusive, and uniform voter registration lists; (8) provisions with respect to registration challenges; and (9) a description of State efforts to actively increase voter registration. Requires each State to submit to the Federal Election Commission for approval a voter registration form which allows registration in person or by mail. Allows the form to be similar or identical to postcard application forms under the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act. Specifies requirements for such form, including that it provide for postage paid return delivery to the appropriate State or local official. Requires agencies subject to this Act to provide for year-round registration services. Requires State and local election officials to provide for the availability of sufficient quantities of registration forms. Requires the chief election official of a State to establish a program to confirm voter registration. Sets forth requirements for such program, including: (1) notification systems concerning deaths and changes of address; (2) non-removal from a voter registration list unless a voter has died, changed residence to another jurisdiction, been convicted of a criminal offense or institutionalized for mental incapacity, or requested removal; and (3) voter registration lists comprising eligible voters, voters whose registration cannot be confirmed and whose eligibility may be challenged on election day, and individuals who have been removed from such list not more than four years before the date of the election. Sets forth provisions for challenging election votes, including the use of an affidavit ballot for the challenged voter. Declares that voter registration requirements shall not apply to any State which: (1) provides for voter registration procedures which meet or exceed the standards for State plans; (2) does not require voter registration; or (3) adopts the Federal postcard application form. Requires individuals who register to vote on an election day to establish their identity, place of residence, and qualifications at the time of such registration. Requires each polling place to provide a means of processing such registrants separately from other voters. Authorizes the Federal Election Commission to administer this Act and to provide advice and technical assistance to States. Requires the Commission to report to the Congress every two years on: (1) the effectiveness of efforts to establish and maintain voter registration procedures; (2) the administration of voter registration programs; and (3) recommendations on national voter registration standards. Declares any order of the Commission under this Act to be reviewable by the appropriate U.S. court of appeals. Provides that the appellee shall not be liable for costs. Directs the Commission to make grants to the chief election official of a State which has an approved plan for establishing voter registration programs. Requires such grants to be made to enable and encourage States to computerize voter registration lists and to undertake alternative methods of voter registration. Authorizes the Commission to establish an advisory council of State and local election officials to advise States about voter registration systems. Requires the Commission to develop a formula for the allocation of funds to States and to allocate or reallocate such funds. Requires a State to submit a plan for voter registration to the Commission within two years of enactment of this Act. Requires the Commission to publish proposed regulations for an implementation plan, or portion thereof, for any State which fails to submit a plan or for any State plan determined not to meet the requirements under this Act. Establishes Federal enforcement procedures and penalties for violations of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 4 February 1988
Commission on Racially Motivated Violence Act of 1988 - Establishes the Commission on Racially Motivated Violence to: (1) investigate racially motivated violence; (2) make recommendations regarding issues related to such violence; (3) consult with representatives of groups interested in protecting minority rights; and (4) collect and analyze information concerning such acts of violence. Directs the Commission to prepare a report: (1) specifying the results of such investigation; and (2) containing recommendations to reduce such violence. Terminates the Commission 60 days after submission of such report.
United States · United States Congress · 4 February 1988
Radon Gas Tax Relief Act of 1988 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to permit a 40 percent nonrefundable income tax credit of up to $4,000 for expenditures made for radon testing in or below the taxpayer's principal residence and for the installation of property designed to reduce radon levels inside the residence. Permits an income tax deduction (both individual and corporate) for radon prevention expenditures in connection with: (1) the development of real property; (2) the construction or enlargement of any building or dwelling unit; or (3) a dwelling required to be purchased by the taxpayer under a contract with an employer covering employee relocation services (the deductible expenses must be incurred by the taxpayer-employee). Makes the tax credit and the tax deduction mutually exclusive with respect to the same expenditures. Amends Federal law to make funds available for the reimbursement of Federal employees for radon protection expenditures necessary to overcome a substantial obstacle to the salability of a principal residence being sold in conjunction with a transfer to a new location.
United States · United States Congress · 4 February 1988
Authorizes expenditures by the House Committee on the District of Columbia for the second session of the 100th Congress, including the procurement of consultant services and assistance for specialized training for its professional staff.
United States · United States Congress · 3 February 1988
Atomic Energy Law Enforcement Act of 1988 - Specifies that the proposed Agreement for Cooperation between the Government of the United States and the Government of Japan Concerning Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy shall not become effective unless: (1) the President resubmits the Agreement to the Congress pursuant to procedures required by the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 with an exemption from the requirements of the Act concerning nuclear safeguards; and (2) the Congress enacts a joint resolution stating that it favors the Agreement.
United States · United States Congress · 2 February 1988
Community Housing Partnership Act - Title I: Housing Education and Organizational Support Grants for Community Based Housing Projects - Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to provide housing education and organizational support grants directly to nonprofit organizations or indirectly to States and cities to assist such organizations. Authorizes permanent appropriations beginning with FY 1989. Title II: Community Housing and Partnership Grants - Authorizes the Secretary to provide community partnership grants directly to nonprofit organizations or indirectly to States and cities to assist such organizations. Divides appropriations among: (1) urban community housing partnership grants (60 percent); (2) State community housing partnership grants (30 percent); and (3) direct community housing partnership grants (ten percent). Sets forth the following eligible activities: (1) technical assistance and site control loans; (2) seed-money loans; (3) matching grants or loans; and (4) program-wide technical and management assistance for nonprofit sponsors. Sets forth rental project and home ownership eligibility provisions, including: (1) occupancy by lower income families; (2) profit limitations; (3) funding coordination; (4) tax treatment; and (5) affirmative action requirements. Authorizes permanent appropriations beginning with FY 1989. Title III: General Provisions - Defines specified terms for purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 1 February 1988
Freedom of Information Public Improvements Act of 1988 - Title I: Amendments to the Freedom of Information Act - Amends the Freedom of Information Act to require each agency, with respect to requests for records, to maintain a log of such requests and responses. Requires each agency to organize and maintain its records in a manner to make them easily accessible and retrievable. Revises provisions regarding fees and waivers for processing such requests. Makes eligible for reasonable standard fees or charges the document duplication requests of a nonprofit organization that intends to make the information available to the news media, to any branch or agency of Federal, State, or local government, or to the public. Allows documents to be furnished without charge or at a reduced fee if: (1) the information relates to a violation of law, inefficiency, or administrative error by an agency; or (2) the waiver or fee reduction is in the public interest because the furnishing of the information primarily benefits the general public. Declares that for purposes of reduced fees or waived charges the publication, reproduction, resale, or other dissemination of information obtained by any person from an agency is not a commercial use. Authorizes the appropriate district court to assess monetary penalties against the United States for unwarranted failure to comply with time limits for answering requests. Revises provisions relating to sanctions for such agency noncompliance. Requires that copies of recommendations on disciplinary action for any Federal employee responsible for wrongful noncompliance be submitted additionally to the court and to the House Committee on Government Operations and the Senate Committee on the Judiciary. (Currently, such report is submitted only to the agency and the employee or the employee-representative.) Requires each agency to expedite access to records if the requester demonstrates a compelling need. Requires agencies to include in regulations concerning information disclosure a detailed description of the procedure used to process requests. Includes as information exempt from disclosure: (1) matters which would cause identifiable damage to the national defense; and (2) matters in which the need to protect the information outweighs the public interest. Changes the disclosure exemption for internal personnel rules and practices to an exemption for law enforcement manuals that are internal in nature to the extent that disclosure would risk circumvention of an agency investigation, a regulation, or a statute. Revises the exemption for financial reports by prohibiting disclosure if it would directly injure the financial stability of an institution. Directs each agency to make available to the public a complete list of all statutes determined to authorize the agency to withhold information under the disclosure exemption. Requires each agency, upon notification of the introduction of any bill or resolution constituting authority for that agency to withhold information, to notify the House Committee on Government Operations and the Senate Committee on the Judiciary. Prohibits the withholding of information in order to conceal violations of law, inefficiency, or administrative error. Directs the Archivist of the United States to supervise compliance with the Freedom of Information Act. Changes the date of the annual report by agencies under such Act to March 1 to December 1. Revises information to be included in such report to conform to amendments made by this Act. Directs the Archivist of the United States to submit an annual report on or before December 1 on activities under the Freedom of Information Act. (Currently, the Attorney General makes such annual report on March 1.) Title II: Recovery of Wrongfully Removed Agency Files - Authorizes any person to commence a civil action to recover agency records removed in violation of law.
United States · United States Congress · 28 January 1988
Air Travel Rights for Blind Individuals Act - Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to preclude an air carrier from establishing aircraft seating restrictions based upon a passenger's visual acuity or use of a white cane or dog guide or other such means of assistance.
United States · United States Congress · 28 January 1988
Farmers' Market Nutrition Enhancement Act - Amends the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 to authorize three-year demonstration projects in seven States to provide coupons (between ten and 20 dollars' worth) to special supplemental food program (WIC) recipients for use at farmers' markets. Requires State matching funds. Establishes minimum and maximum grant levels. Limits the use of funds for administrative costs. Requires annual State reports to the Secretary of Agriculture. Authorizes FY 1989 through 1991 appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1988
Postal Service Disadvantaged Business Procurement Act of 1988 - Establishes in the United States Postal Service an Office of Disadvantaged Business Utilization to implement the goals, objectives, and purposes of this Act. Provides for the Office to be headed by a Director of Disadvantaged Business Utilization (Director). Requires the Postmaster General, after consultation with the Director, to establish annual goals for the participation by disadvantaged business concerns in procurement contracts of the Postal Service. Requires goals for prime contract awards of not less than: (1) ten percent for disadvantaged business concerns owned and controlled by other than women; and (2) five percent for disadvantaged business concerns owned and controlled by women. Sets forth the procurement authorities of the Postal Service so that it can assure that a fair proportion of total purchases for contracts for property and services are placed with disadvantaged business concerns. Authorizes the Postal Service to set aside or reduce procurement requirements for such concerns. Authorizes the Postal Service to enter into single-source negotiations with disadvantaged business concerns for the award of any contract under specified circumstances. Requires such contracts to result in a cost to the Postal Service that is fair and reasonable and that does not exceed the estimated current fair market price of the work to be performed. Entitles a disadvantaged business concern, if the Postal Service withdraws a procurement requirement because the prices offered by the concern exceed the current fair market price: (1) to a written statement, upon its request, from the Postal Service on the method used to estimate the current fair market price; and (2) to protest the use of such method to the Director. Declares the Director's decision on the protest to be conclusive. Prohibits a procurement officer from precluding any disadvantaged business concern or group of concerns from being awarded a contract on any basis dealing with the responsibility of the offeror without referring the matter for a final disposition to the Director. Requires the Postal Service to provide for prompt and expeditious payments due to disadvantaged business concerns. Requires the Postal Service to require its prime contractors to ensure timely payments to such concerns. Requires a clause in all Postal Service contracts that states the policy of the Postal Service with respect to small business concerns owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, and that the contractor agrees with such policy. Exempts from such requirement any contract which: (1) does not exceed $10,000; (2) will be performed outside the United States (and all the subcontracts under such contract); or (3) is for personal services. Requires certain contracts which are awarded through other than the sealed bid method of procurement to contain a clause notifying potential offering companies of the provisions of this Act relating to such contracts. Requires the apparent successful offeror to negotiate with the procurement authority a subcontracting plan with specified contents before the Postal Service awards any contract, or any amendment or modification to any contract already let, which: (1) is to be awarded, or was let, through other than the sealed bid method of procurement; (2) is required to include the clause on Postal Service policy with respect to disadvantaged business concerns; (3) may exceed $1,000,000 in the case of a contract for the construction of a postal facility, or $500,000 in the case of all other contracts; and (4) offers subcontracting possibilities. Provides that if the apparent successful offeror fails to negotiate such subcontracting plan, then the offeror shall become ineligible to be awarded the contract. Prohibits the awarding of a contract to any offeror unless the procurement authority determines that the subcontracting plan provides the maximum practicable opportunity for disadvantaged business concerns to participate in the contract's performance. Authorizes the Postal Service to provide such incentives as may be deemed appropriate in order to encourage subcontracting opportunities for small business concerns owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, except with respect to contracts let pursuant to other than the sealed bid method. Requires certain contracts to be awarded under the sealed bid method of procurement to contain a clause requiring the incorporation of a subcontracting plan. Makes the bidder selected to be awarded such contract ineligible if it fails to submit the subcontracting plan. Describes the subcontracting plan to be incorporated into contracts let under this Act with respect to providing opportunities for disadvantaged business concerns. Declares that the failure of any contractor or subcontractor to comply in good faith with the clause stating the policy of the Postal Service with respect to disadvantaged business concerns shall be a material breach of contract. Declares that any contract that does not contain a required subcontracting plan shall be considered void. Sets forth the duties of the Director with respect to subcontracting plans. Sets forth penalties for any person who makes or uses any document, writing or entry knowing it to be false for the purpose of obtaining a contract or subcontract let, or to be let, under this Act. Directs the Postal Service to establish annual goals specifically for funding agreements for research or research and development with disadvantaged business concerns. Authorizes each disadvantaged business concern to elect to retain title to any invention first conceived or first actually reduced to practice in the performance of a funding agreement. Sets forth provisions to be included in each funding agreement with respect to the rights of contractors and the Postal Service to the title to any invention conceived under the agreement. Requires Postmaster General approval before the Postal Service can require the licensing to third parties of inventions owned by the contractor that were not conceived or first actually reduced to practice in the performance of work under a funding agreement. Declares that with respect to any invention in which a disadvantaged business concern has acquired title under this Act, the Postal Service has the right to require the contractor, an assignee, or exclusive licensee of such invention, to grant a nonexclusive, partially exclusive, or exclusive license in any field of use to a responsible applicant upon terms that are reasonable under the circumstances, and if the contractor, assignee, or exclusive licensee refuses such request, to grant such a license itself. Requires the Postal Service to make a written determination that such action is necessary. Prohibits a disadvantaged business concern which receives title to any subject invention and an assignee of such concern from granting to any person the exclusive right to use or sell any subject invention in the United States unless such person agrees that any products embodying the subject invention, or produced through the use of such invention, will be manufactured substantially in the United States. Sets forth the circumstances under which such prohibition will be waived. Authorizes the Postal Service to withhold from public disclosure any invention in which it owns a right, title, or interest for a reasonable time in order for a patent application to be filed. Declares that the Postal Service shall not be required to release copies of any document which is part of a patent application. Directs the Postal Service to publicize notice of certain contracting opportunities in a manner to encourage the maximum practicable participation by disadvantaged business concerns. Authorizes the Postmaster General to exempt any purchase or class of purchases from such requirement if such exemption is determined to be in the public interest or if the notice would substantially impede a legitimate acquisition objective of the Postal Service. Directs the Postal Service to provide means whereby bidders and offerors may identify themselves as a disadvantaged business concern. Requires the Small Business Administration to make a final and binding decision on all disputes regarding the size status of a firm or its status as a socially and economically disadvantaged small business concern. Requires the Postal Service to report annually to specified congressional committees on its compliance with this Act. Requires a special report to such committees if the Postal Service fails to meet procurement goals established by the Director.
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 · 18 December 1987
Designates the Federal building known as the Richard B. Russell Federal Annex, located at 50 Spring Street, Southwest, Atlanta, Georgia, as the Martin Luther King, Jr. Federal Building.
United States · United States Congress · 17 December 1987
DOE Waste Cleanup Act of 1987 - Directs the Secretary of Energy to establish the DOE Hazardous Waste Management and Cleanup Account, which shall be credited with appropriations for hazardous waste activities under the Solid Waste Disposal Act and the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (Superfund). Establishes within the Department of Energy the Office of Waste Management and Cleanup to implement the Secretary's hazardous waste disposal functions under the Solid Waste Disposal Act and Superfund. Directs the Secretary to pay the charges imposed by State authorities for hazardous waste disposal permit services on lands which are under the Secretary's jurisdiction to the same extent that non-governmental entities are required to pay for such services. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into agreements on a reimbursable basis with any other governmental entity (or agency) for assistance related to waste management and cleanup carried out by the Director of Waste Management and Cleanup (established under this Act). Requires the Secretary to identify in each annual authorization and appropriations request the portion intended for Office support. Requires the President to set forth separately in budget proposals the amount requested for hazardous waste activities under the Solid Waste Disposal Act and for hazardous substances cleanup activities under the Superfund Act. Cites the budget details which must be included in the Secretary's annual budget submission. Requires the Comptroller General to report annually to the Congress the results of an annual mandatory audit of the Office.
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