United States · United States Congress · 30 January 1974
Disallows, under the Internal Revenue Code, percentage depletion deductions on foreign oil and gas wells, tax deductions for intangible drilling and development costs for foreign oil or gas wells, and tax credits for income, war profits, or excess profits tax paid or accrued which is attributable to income from foreign oil or gas wells. Allows a tax deduction for excess profits taxes imposed by foreign countries to the extent a credit is denied for such taxes.
United States · United States Congress · 30 January 1974
Revises the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act by providing for enforcement of motor carrier safety regulations by employees who believe their employer has violated such safety regulations. Allows employees to request an investigation by giving written and signed notice of the violation to the Secretary of Transportation. Authorizes the Secretary to issue a citation to the violator upon the finding of a violation. Sets forth the form of such citation, including the assessment of a civil penalty of not less than $250 nor more than $1,000 for the first violation. Permits a violator to contest the citation within 15 days. Provides for a hearing before the National Transportation Safety Board on the citation, and review of any adverse order from the Board by the United States court of appeals. Specifies the procedures for pleadings, testimony and objections before the appellate court. Provides that the Secretary may enforce any final order of the Board or any uncontested citation by filing for relief in the United States Court of Appeals. Empowers the Secretary to order a carrier of explosives and other dangerous articles to cease operation of motor vehicles in interstate commerce for up to sixty days when he finds the operations create an unreasonable risk of accident, injury or death. States the procedure for the Secretary to follow in issuing such a cease and desist order. Provides that no person shall discharge or discriminate against any employee for: (1) filing a motor carrier safety violation complaint; (2) refusing to operate equipment because of his apprehension of death or serious injury to himself or the public due to the unsafe condition of such equipment; or (3) refusing to operate equipment in violation of regulations respecting hours of service. Entitles an employee so discharged or discriminated against: (1) to reinstatement in his employment; (2) to be made whole for his losses; (3) to exemplary damages; and (4) to costs of suit and reasonable attorney's fees. Authorizes the Secretary to issue, amend, and revoke such rules and regulations as he deems necessary to carry out this Act, including rules and regulations relating to recordkeeping and reporting by motor carriers.
United States · United States Congress · 29 January 1974
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that (1) A world without war is possible; (2) In such a world nations will rely for their external protection on world institutions strong enough to stop any nation from making war, capable of assuring peaceful and just settlements of international disputes, and reliable enough to be entrusted with such power; and (3) it is the policy of the United States to initiate and to implement with other nations practical steps consistent with our commitment to the United Nations for the expeditious realization of such institutions.
United States · United States Congress · 23 January 1974
Provides for the establishment of a National Office for Migrant and Seasonal Farmworkers within the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, with responsibility for the coordinated administration of all of the programs of that Department serving migrant and seasonal farmworkers. Sets forth the functions of such Office. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary to carry out this Act. Directs the Secretary to appoint a special task force on migrant and seasonal farmworkers which shall conduct a continuing study and investigation of the needs and problems of migrant and seasonal farmworkers in the United States and of methods for meeting those needs and solving those problems, giving particular emphasis to the early development of a single comprehensive Federal program designed to assist migrant and seasonal farmworkers.
United States · United States Congress · 13 December 1973
High Seas Oil Port Act - States that the purpose of this Act is to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to grant to eligible applicants licenses for the construction of high seas oil ports. Title I: Construction of High Seas Oil Ports - Sets forth standards under which the Secretary of the Interior may issue a license to an eligible applicant to construct a high seas oil port. States that any license issued under this Act shall be for a term of five years and may be extended for any additional period of time as the Secretary finds reasonably necessary for completion of construction. Authorizes the Secretary to include in any license issued or transferred any reasonable conditions which he finds necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act. States that prior to the issuance of a license under this Act, the Secretary shall establish criteria for evaluating the potential impact of the construction or operation of the proposed high seas oil port on the marine environment. Authorizes the Secretary to issue reasonable rules and regulations prescribing procedures governing the application for and issuance of licenses pursuant to this Act. Provides that copies of any communications, documents, reports, or information received or sent by any applicant shall be made available to the public upon identifiable request, and at reasonable cost, unless such information concerns or relates to a trade secret. States that when an adjacent coastal State has an existing State program controlling, or other legislative requirements related to, land or water uses, upon which the construction of a high seas oil port will have a direct impact, the applicant shall include, in his application to the Secretary, a certification that in the applicant's best judgment the issuance of the license applied for would be consistent with applicable State requirements. Provides that within thirty days after receipt of an application filed under this Act, the Secretary shall publish in the Federal Register a notice containing a summary of the application. Requires that the Secretary's decision granting or denying the license shall be in writing and shall be made within one hundred twenty days following the conclusion of all hearings. Provides for judicial review of such decisions. Sets forth procedures for the Secretary to suspend or revoke a license. Authorizes to be appropriated for fiscal year 1974 and for each of the two succeeding fiscal years such sums, not exceeding $500,000 for any fiscal year, for the administration of this title. Title II: Operation of High Seas Oil Ports - States that upon receipt of the certification of the Secretary of the Interior of completion of construction, the license to construct a high seas oil port shall be converted into a license to operate the oil port. Provides that each license converted pursuant to this title shall be limited to a reasonable term in light of all circumstances concerning the project, but in no event for a term of more than thirty years. Authorizes the Secretary to issue reasonable rules and regulations prescribing procedures under which high seas oil ports shall be operated. Directs the Secretary to establish safety zones around such ports. Provides that State taxation laws shall not apply to any high seas oil port or to any component thereof located outside the tax jurisdiction of the State. Requires all United States officials to be afforded reasonable access to a high seas oil port for the purpose of enforcing laws under their jurisdictions. States that any person who violates any provision of this title or any rule or regulation issued pursuant thereto shall be liable for a civil penalty of $10,000 for each day during which the violation continues. Sets forth procedures for the suspension or revocation of a license to operate a high seas oil port. Authorizes to be appropriated for the fiscal year 1976 and for each of the three succeeding fiscal years such sums, not exceeding $2,500,000 for any fiscal year, for the administration of this title.
United States · United States Congress · 13 December 1973
Provides that any renewal of United States military involvement in Southeast Asis will constitute a gross abuse of Presidential powers raising grave questions under Article II, Section 4, of the United States Constitution.
United States · United States Congress · 12 December 1973
Provides for the establishment of the Lyndon Baines Johnson Memorial Grove on the Potomac, in Washington, D.C. States that the authorization granted by this resolution shall lapse unless development of the memorial is begun within ten years of the enactment of this resolution.
United States · United States Congress · 11 December 1973
Energy Emergency Act - Title I - Energy Emergency Authorities - States that the purpose of this Act is to call for proposals for energy emergency conservation measures and to authorize specific temporary emergency actions to be exercised to assure that the essential needs of the United States for fuels will be met in a manner which, to the fullest extent practicable: (1) is consistent with existing national commitments to protect and improve the environment, (2) minimizes any adverse impact on employment, (3) provides for equitable treatment of all sectors of the economy, and (4) maintains vital services necessary to health, safety, and public welfare. Revises the Emergency Petroleum Allocation Act by authorizing the President to make such adjustments in the allocations made pursuant to such Act as may be necessary to provide for the allocation of crude oil, residual fuel oil, or any refined petroleum product to users of such products in order to maintain vital services. Authorizes the President to require adjustments in the production rate of oil refineries in the United States when necessary. Authorizes the President to require the production of crude oil at the producer level at the maximum rate of production. Establishes a Federal Energy Administration to be headed by a Federal Energy Administrator, to be appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Directs the Administrator to propose one or more energy conservation plans within 30 days of the enactment of this Act. Directs the Administrator to prohibit, after balancing on a plant-by-plant basis the environmental effects of use of coal against the need to fulfill the purposes of this Act, to prohibit, as its primary source, the burning of natural gas or petroleum products by any major fuel-burning installations (including any existing electric powerplant) which, on the date of enactment of this Act, has the capability and necessary plant equipment to burn coal. Authorizes the Interstate Commerce Commission (with respect to common or contract carriers subject to economic regulation under the Interstate Commerce Act), the Civil Aeronautics Board, and the Federal Maritime Commission, for the duration of the period beginning on the date of enactment of this Act and ending on May 15, 1975, to take any action for the purpose of conserving energy consumption in a manner found by such Commission or Board to be consistent with the objectives and purposes of the Acts administered by such Commission or Board on its own motion or on the petition of the Administrator which existing law permits such Commission or Board to take upon the motion or petition of any regulated common or contract carrier or other person. Provides that it shall be unlawful for any person, who is engaged in the business of marketing or distributing diesel fuel to trucks on bona fide cargo runs, to deny to such trucks full fill-ups of fuel, unless: (1) there is in effect under this Act, the Emergency Petroleum Allocation Act, or any other Act an end use allocation regulation which restricts such full fill ups by such person to such trucks, or (2) such person has no such fuel available for sale. Sets forth penalties for such actions. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary for the purpose of making grants to States to which the Federal Energy Administrator has delegated authority under this Act. Provides that a refiner shall not terminate a marketing agreement unless he furnishes prior notification pursuant to this Act to each branded independent marketer to which such termination applies. Provides that a refiner shall not terminate a marketing agreement unless the branded independent marketer to which such termination applies failed to comply substantially with one or more essential and reasonable requirements of such marketing agreement or failed to act in good faith in carrying out the terms of such agreement; except that such refiner may terminate such agreement if he does not, during the 3-year period which begins on the date of such termination, engage in the sale of any refined petroleum product in commerce for sale other than for resale in any relevant market within such branded independent marketer operated. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to establish within the Department of Transportation an "Office of Carpool Promotion" whose purpose and responsibilities shall include: (1) responding to any and all requests for information and technical assistance on carpooling and carpooling systems from units of State and local governments and private groups and employees; (2) promoting greater participation in carpooling through public information and the preparation of such materials for use by State and local governments; (3) encouraging and promoting private organizations to organize and operate carpool systems for employees; (4) promoting the cooperation and sharing of responsibilities between separate, yet proximately close, units of government in coordinating the operations of carpool systems; and (5) promoting other such measures that the Secretary determines appropriate. Authorizes the appropriation of $25,000,000 for the conduct of programs designed to maximize the level of carpool participation in the United States. Revises the Emergency Petroleum Allocation Act by directing the President to exercise his authority under such Act and under the Economic Stabilization Act so as to specify prices for sales of crude oil, refined petroleum products, residual fuel oil, and coal, produced in or imported into the United States, which avoid windfall profits by sellers. Provides that, notwithstanding the provisions of the Natural Gas Act (or any other provisions of law), the President may by order, on a finding that such action would be consistent with the public interest, authorize on a shipment-by-shipment basis the importation of liquified natural gas from a foreign country. Authorizes the Federal Energy Administrator, to the extent necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act, to restrict exports of coal, petroleum products, and petrochemical feedstocks, under such terms as he deems appropriate. Title II: Coordination with Environmental Protection Requirements - Authorizes the Federal Energy Administrator, for any period beginning on or after the date of enactment of this section and ending on or before May 15, 1974, to temporarily suspend any stationary source fuel or emission limitation as it applies to any person, if the Administrator finds that such person will be unable to comply with such limitation during such period solely because of unavailability of types or amounts of fuels. Revises the schedule for implementation of motor vehicle emissions standards under the Clean Air Act. Provides that any allocation program provided for in Title I of this Act or in the Emergency Petroleum Allocation Act shall, to the maximum extent practicable, include measures to assure that available low sulfur fuel will be distributed on a priority basis to those areas of the country designated by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency as requiring low sulfur fuel to avoid or minimize adverse impact on public health. Directs that in order to determine the health effects of emissions of sulfur oxides to the air resulting from any conversions to burning coal pursuant to this Act, the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare shall, in cooperation with the Environmental Protection Agency, conduct a study of acute and chronic effects among exposed populations. Authorizes the appropriation of $2,000,000 for such study. Directs the Administrator of the Federal Energy Administration to conduct a study on potential methods of energy conservation and, not later than 6 months after the date of enactment of this Act, to submit to Congress a report on the results of such study. Directs the President, within 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, to recommend to the Congress actions to be taken by the executive branch and the Congress regarding the problem of the sitting of all types of energy producing facilities. Revises Title II of the Clean Air Act by directing the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to conduct a study, and to report to the Committee on Interstate and Foreign Commerce of the United States House of Representatives and the Committee on Public Works of the United States Senate within 120 days following the date of enactment of this Act, concerning the practicability of establishing a fuel economy improvement standard of 20 percent for new motor vehicles manufactured during and after model year 1980.
United States · United States Congress · 4 December 1973
States that any renewal of United States military involvement in Southeast Asia will constitute a gross abuse of Presidential powers raising grave questions under article II of the Constitution.
United States · United States Congress · 29 November 1973
Authorizes increased production of petroleum from the Elk Hills Naval Petroleum Reserve at a rate to help insure that the needs of national defense are met, but not to exceed the maximum efficient rate in accordance with sound engineering and economic principles. Authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to dispose of the production herein authorized by means of sales effected by competitive bid. Provides that full and equal opportunity for acquisition of the oil shall be accorded to all interested companies, including major and independent oil refineries alike. Establishes the Naval Petroleum Reserve Account. States that funds in the Account shall be available for the expenses of: (1) production, including preparation for production, as authorized by this resolution and as may hereafter be authorized; (2) all capital costs necessary for facilities both within and outside the reserve incident to production and delivery of crude petroleum; and (3) exploration, prospecting, conservation, development, use, and operation of the naval petroleum and oil shale reserves.
United States · United States Congress · 15 November 1973
Authorizes the establishment of the Big Thicket National Preserve in the State of Texas. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act, but not to exceed $63,812,000 for the acquisition of lands and interests in lands and not to exceed $7,000,000 for development.
United States · United States Congress · 14 November 1973
Expresses the sense of Congress that all the agencies of the Federal Government should issue regulations which would severely limit the use of chauffeur-driven limousines and which would provide that the motors of such limousines should be turned off when such limousines are parked and occupied only by the drivers.
United States · United States Congress · 13 November 1973
Geothermal Energy Research, Development, and Commercial Demonstration Act - Requires the Director of the National Science Foundation to initiate and support basic and applied research relating to geothermal energy development. Requires the National Aeronautics and Space Administration to initiate and carry out commercial demonstrations, research, and development in geothermal energy technology. Provides that the Administration shall dispose of, by sublease or otherwise, all projects undertaken under this Act. Directs the Administration to assure the protection of the environment, persons, and property in projects undertaken pursuant to this Act. Requires the Administration to report to the Congress and the President every six months on the progress made under this Act. Authorizes appropriations for six fiscal years of $80,000,000 to carry out programs under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 6 November 1973
Emergency Rural Housing Act - Declares the finding of Congress that there are millions of substandard dwelling units in rural areas, that existing agencies operating under existing authorities could not meet the needs of millions of the rural poor, and that there is a need for emergency action in rural housing programs. Establishes an Emergency Rural Housing Administration, the management of which shall be vested in an Administrator appointed by the President with the consent of the Senate. Makes it the duty of the Administrator to provide minimal housing facilities for eligible persons in rural areas and small communities. Forbids the duties and powers of the Administration to be transferred to any other department, agency, or instrumentality of the United States. Authorizes the Administrator to make loans to eligible persons to finance the acquisition of land and the construction thereon of minimal housing facilities, or to finance the acquisition and rehabilitation of existing facilities in accordance with minimum housing facilities standards. Provides that at least 50 percent of the principal amount of any loan made shall be amortized over a period of not more than forty years, shall bear interest at a rate of not less than one percent per year, and shall be secured by a first mortgage. Authorizes the Administrator to acquire land and engage in the development of housing projects to be sold under the provisions of this Act. Authorizes the Administrator to finance all or part of the acquisition, and maintenance of: (1) minimal housing facilities in rural areas and small communities to be rented by eligible persons; (2) water and sewer facilities for such housing; and (3) related community facilities for such housing. Provides that the Administrator may enter into area responsibility agreements with any local agency. Forbids the Administrator to require, as a condition of assistance under this Act, the relocation of any eligible person in order to engage in or to facilitate the economic development of any area. Requires the Administration to submit an annual report to the Congress and the President on the operation of this Act. Establishes a Rural Housing Investment Fund which shall be used by the Administration for carrying out the provisions of this Act. Authorizes the Administration to issue to the Secretary of the Treasury notes or other obligations in such sums as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 31 October 1973
Requires that dye or other effective visual markings be used to identify where wastes are dumped in the ocean under title I of the Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act.
United States · United States Congress · 30 October 1973
Social Services Amendments - Outlines the objectives to be achieved under this Act, including: (1) the goal of self-support; (2) the goal of family care or self-care; (3) the goal of community-based care; and (4) the institutional care goal. Provides, under the Social Security Act, for maximum freedom for each State to determine which services will be made available, the persons eligible for such services, the manner in which such services are provided, and any limitations on the receipt of such services. Requires that social services to be offered at the option of the States to all eligible persons shall include: (1) day care services for children; (2) day care services for children with special needs; (3) service for children in foster care; (4) protective services for children; (5) family planning services; (6) protective services for adults; (7) services for adults in foster care; (8) homemaker services for individuals in their own homes; (9) chore services; (10) home delivered or congregate meals; (11) day care services for adults; (12) health related services; (13) home management and other functional education services; (14) housing improvement services; (15) a full range of legal services; (16) transportation services necessary to travel to and from community facilities or resources for receipt of services; (17) educational and training services; (18) employment services; (19) information, referral, and determination of eligibility and the need for services, without regard to individual eligibility criteria; (20) special services for the mentally retarded, or special adaptations of generic services; (21) special services for the blind; (22) services for alcoholism and drug addiction; (23) special services for the emotionally disturbed as defined by the State; (24) special services for the physically handicapped as defined by the State; and (25) any other proposed services at the request of a State. Provides that States are entitled to Federal financial participation for the delivery of mandatory and optional social services under the State plan to the extent of the appropriations allocated by the Congress. Requires that State plans submitted with respect to the services program shall contain a provision for a fair hearing, under which applicants and recipients may appeal exclusion from a service program. Provides that State plans shall provide for the establishment of a social services advisory committee, to include members representative of recipients of such services.
United States · United States Congress · 30 October 1973
American Folklife Preservation Act - Creates an American Folklife Center in the Library of Congress. Provides that the center shall be subject to the supervision and direction of a board of trustees. Provides that such board shall be composed of four members appointed by the President, eight members appointed by the Librarian of Congress, the Librarian of Congress ex officio and the director of the center ex officio. Authorizes the centers to establish and implement a program of contracts, grants, revitalize and scholarships to preserve, protect, revitalize and disseminate American folklife traditions and arts. Provides that no payment shall be made pursuant to this Act to carry out any research or training over a period in excess of two years. States that such research or training may be extended to a period not to exceed five years with the concurrance of at least two-thirds of the members of the board. Provides that no former employee of the Federal government shall be eligible to receive any grant or other assistance under this Act in the two year period following the termination of such employment. Requires the center to submit to the Library of Congress, for inclusion in its annual report to the Congress, an annual report of its operations under this Act. Authorizes such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 29 October 1973
Athletic Care Act - Requires that elementary, secondary schools and schools of higher education which engage in interscholastic athletic competition must employ at least one certified athletic trainer. Provides that the Commissioner of Education shall carry out a program of certifying persons as athletic trainers and shall make grants to institutions of higher education to assist them in meeting the costs of establishing and maintaining programs to provide the education and training necessary to qualify persons for certification.
United States · United States Congress · 25 October 1973
Authorizes appropriations of $150,000,000, $175,000,000, and $200,000,000 for fiscal years 1975-1977, respectively for the nutrition program for the aged under title VII of the Older American Act.
United States · United States Congress · 23 October 1973
Establishes, within the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, a National Office for Migrant and Seasonal Farmworkers for the purpose of meeting more effectively the needs of migrant and seasonal farmworkers in the United States. Directs the Secretary to appoint a special task force on migrant and seasonal farmworkers to conduct a continuing study and investigation of the needs and problems of migrant and seasonal farmworkers in the United States. Transfers all functions, powers, and duties under Federal laws and programs within the jurisdiction of the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare which relate to migrant and seasonal farmworkers to the Office. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 23 October 1973
Special Prosecution Conservancy Act - Vests the Chief Judge of the United States District Court for the District of Columbia with supervisory jurisdiction to issue and enforce all orders necessary and appropriate to insure the integrity and inviolability of all files, notes, correspondence, memoranda, documents, physical evidence, and other records and work product compiled, obtained, or otherwise produced and maintained by the office of Special Prosecutor from the date of assumption of that office on May 24, 1973, until the appointment of a successor Special Prosecutor pursuant to this Act. Vests the Chief Judge of the United States District Court with authority to appoint a Special Prosecutor for the purposes and with the powers set forth in this Act, and to replace such officer only for extraordinary improprieties in the exercise of his responsibilities. Sets forth the authority and responsibilities of the Special Prosecutor. States that the prosecutor shall have exclusive authority to conduct all grand jury presentments and all other criminal proceedings arising from the following acts or transactions: (1) offenses arising out of the unauthorized entry into Democratic National Committee Headquarters at the Watergate; (2) offenses arising out of the 1972 Presidential election; (3) allegations of criminal offenses involving the President, members of the White House Staff, or other Presidential appointees; and (4) such other matters as bear a relation to the foregoing and which the Special Prosecutor consents to accept. Sets forth powers of the Special Prosecutor, including: (1) the power to determine whether and how far to contest the assertion of executive privilege or any other testimonial or evidentiary privilege, and (2) the power to decide whether or not to prosecute any person and how to conduct and argue any appeals or petitions arising out of his prosecutorial activities. Authorizes the United States District Court for the District of Columbia to extend the term of the Grand Jury of that Court which was impaneled on June 5, 1972, for additional periods of six months, until the court determines that the business of that Grand Jury has been completed. Authorizes to be appropriated to the office of the Special Prosecutor such sums as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 23 October 1973
Directs the House Committee on the Judiciary to inquire into the commencement of impeachment proceedings against the President of the United States, and to transmit to the House within 30 days following enactment of this resolution its judgment and recommendations.
United States · United States Congress · 23 October 1973
Directs the Committee on the Judiciary to inquire into and investigate whether grounds exist for the impeachment of Richard M. Nixon, and to report its findings to the House with such resolutions or articles of impeachment deemed proper.
United States · United States Congress · 16 October 1973
Provides, under the Internal Revenue Code, an individual tax credit for disaster evacuation expenses. Defines such expenses. States that in general the amount allowed for such a credit shall not exceed $200 for each natural disaster requiring evacuation.
United States · United States Congress · 16 October 1973
Pollution Control Facility Loan Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Labor to make loans to finance projects within eligible areas for acquisition, construction, rehabilitation, alteration, expansion, or improvement of a certified pollution control facility. States that such loans shall not exceed 65 percent of the aggregate cost to the applicant of the project. Establishes a revolving fund in the Treasury for making such loans. Authorizes an appropriation of $750,000,000 to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 10 October 1973
States that regulations of the Environmental Protection Agency under section 206 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, as amended, be set aside in order to provide equitable funding for all publicly owned sewage treatment works constructed during the period from June 30, 1966, through July 1, 1972, regardless of whether such works received any Federal assistance at the time of construction, were eligible for Federal incentive grants, or were supported in whole or in part by a State matching grant or loan program.
United States · United States Congress · 9 October 1973
Authorizes and directs the Secretary of Commerce to study applications of solar energy. Establishes a system of grants for solar energy research. Establishes the Solar Energy Data Bank which shall: (1) compile a repository of technical information, including unpublished or otherwise unreported information, on the development and use of solar energy; and (2) distribute information on various aspects of the development and use of solar energy. Authorizes appropriations to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 1 October 1973
Establishes a Federal Privacy Board. Directs the Board to prescribe rules for the regulation of automatically processed files identifiable to individuals. Provides that no data bank may be maintained except as provided in this Act. Provides for penalties for violations of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 26 September 1973
Requires that not later than October 27, 1973, the Environmental Protection Agency shall submit to the Federal Aviation Administration proposed regulations to provide control and abatement of aircraft noise and sonic boom. (Amends 49 U.S.C. 1431(c))
United States · United States Congress · 20 September 1973
States that no person may make, or instruct any other person to make, any telephone call solely to threaten or harass any person at the called number in order to collect any money alleged to be due and owing. Specifies the types of acts prohibited by this Act. Provides that a person who makes a telephone call in violation of this Act shall be liable in a civil action to the person called for a penalty in an amount of $500 for each such telephone call, in addition to attorney's fees. Directs all telephone companies to notify each telephone subscriber of his right to privacy and to be free from telephone calls from persons calling to harass, abuse, threaten, or coerce. Prohibits any person from contracting any person's employer by telephone to inform the employer of any alleged debt of an employee unless the debt has been held in a valid court judgment to be due and owing.
United States · United States Congress · 19 September 1973
States that by reason of their traditional use as a thoroughfare and haven for fishermen and sea venturers, the necessity for them to be free and open in connection with shipping, navigation, salvage, and rescue operations, as well as recreation, Congress declares and affirms that the beaches of the United States are impressed with a national interest and that the public shall have free and unrestricted right to use them as a common to the full extent that such public right may be extended consistent with such property rights of littoral landowners as may be protected absolutely by the Constitution. Provides that no person shall create, erect, maintain, or construct any obstruction, barrier, or restraint of any nature which interferes with the free and unrestricted right of the public, individually and collectively, to enter, leave, cross, or use as a common the public beaches. Establishes Federal jurisdiction over legal actions connected with the provisions of this Act. States that it is desirable that the States and the Federal Government act in a joint partnership to protect the rights and interests of the people in the use of the beaches. Authorizes the Secretary of whatever department the Coast Guard is operating under to place at the disposal of the States such research facilities and information as may assist them in carrying out the provisions of this Act, to make grants, and to provide financial assistance for the development and maintenance of transportation facilities necessary in connection with the use of public beaches.
United States · United States Congress · 19 September 1973
States that by reason of their traditional use as a thoroughfare and haven for fishermen and sea venturers, the necessity for them to be free and open in connection with shipping, navigation, salvage, and rescue operations, as well as recreation, Congress declares and affirms that the beaches of the United States are impressed with a national interest and that the public shall have free and unrestricted right to use them as a common to the full extent that such public right may be extended consistent with such property rights of littoral landowners as may be protected absolutely by the Constitution. Provides that no person shall create, erect, maintain, or construct any obstruction, barrier, or restraint of any nature which interferes with the free and unrestricted right of the public, individually and collectively, to enter, leave, cross, or use as a common the public beaches. Establishes Federal jurisdiction over legal actions connected with the provisions of this Act. States that it is desirable that the States and the Federal Government act in a joint partnership to protect the rights and interests of the people in the use of the beaches. Authorizes the Secretary of whatever department the Coast Guard is operating under to place at the disposal of the States such research facilities and information as may assist them in carrying out the provisions of this Act, to make grants, and to provide financial assistance for the development and maintenance of transportation facilities necessary in connection with the use of public beaches.
United States · United States Congress · 13 September 1973
Provides that, notwithstanding any provision of law heretofore or hereafter enacted permitting an expenditure to be accounted for solely on the certificate of the head of a department or establishment because of the confidential or other special nature of the expenditure, the Comptroller General shall be furnished such information relating to such expenditure as he may request and access to all necessary books, documents, papers, and record, relating to such expenditure in order that he may determine whether the expenditure was, in fact, of such confidential or other special nature.
United States · United States Congress · 13 September 1973
Provides that future appointments to the offices of Director and Deputy Director of the Office of Management and Budget shall be subject to confirmation by the Senate.
United States · United States Congress · 11 September 1973
Right to Financial Privacy Act - States that the purposes of this Act are to protect and preserve the confidential relationship between financial institutions and their customers and the constitutional rights of those customers, and to promote commerce by prescribing policies and procedures to insure that customers have the same right to protect against unwarranted disclosure of customer records as if the records were in their possession. Prohibits any Federal agency or employee, or any State or local government from obtaining copies of, access to, or the information contained in, the financial records of any customer from a financial institution unless the financial records are described with particularity and : (1) such customer has authorized such disclosure in accordance with this Act; (2) such financial records are disclosed in response to an administrative subpena or summons; (3) such financial records are disclosed in response to a court order; or (4) such financial records are disclosed in response to a judicial subpena. States that no financial institution may provide to a Federal agency or employee, or to any State or local government, copies of or the information contained in the financial records of any customer except in accordance with the requirements of this Act. Provides that a customer may authorize disclosure if he or those seeking disclosure furnish to the financial institution a signed and dated statement by which the customer: (1) authorizes such disclosure for a period not in excess of one year; (2) identifies the financial records which are authorized to be disclosed; and (3) specifies the purposes for which, and the agencies to which, such records may be disclosed. Requires the financial institution to keep a record of all examinations of the customer's financial records and to notify the customer that he has the right at any time to revoke any authorization of disclosure and to obtain a copy of the aforementioned record of examinations. Sets forth provisions governing customer authorization, administrative subpenas and summons, and judicial subpenas. Prohibits the Secretary of the Treasury from requiring an institution to maintain financial records or to transmit reports on customers, unless such records are required by a supervisory agency or the Internal Revenue Service. Prescribes civil and criminal penalties for violation of the provisions of this Act. Provides for injunctive relief for persons aggrieved by violation or threatened violation of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 11 September 1973
Runaway Youth Act - Asserts that the responsibility for improving the conditions and medical and counseling services in the Nation and for aiding parents in finding children who have left home without permission is primarily one of State and local concern, but that the Federal Government has a responsibility and unique opportunity to help alleviate the problems associated with runaway youth, which are national in scope and interstate in character. Title I: Authorizes the Administrator of the Law Enforcement Assistance Administration to make grants to State and local law enforcement agencies to purchase necessary equipment and fund programs which will strengthen the availability and effectiveness of services for parents of runaway youth to report descriptions and possible destinations of their children to law enforcement officials in their localities and in othe areas of the country. Prescribes the necessary contents of applications for such grant. Provides that the Federal share of grants will be 80 percent of the total costs of the program or item for which the application is made. Authorizes $2,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 1974, 1975, and 1976, to carry out the provisions of this title. Title II: Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to gather information, develop a comprehensive program, and report to Congress no later than June 30, 1974, on the problems and needs of transient youth in the United States and on the causes of and possible methods of dealing with the runaway youth phenomenon, including information and recommendations regarding the entire transient youth population in the United States. Requires the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to report to Congress not later than June 30, 1974, on the desirability of current procedures and of a new agency to deal with the problems and needs of transient youth in the United States. Provides that there is authorized to be appropriated not to exceed $1,000,000 to carry out this title. Title III: Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to make grants and to provide technical assistance to States, localities, and nonprofit private agencies, beginning July 1, 1973, and ending June 30, 1976. Provides that the grants may be given to States, localities, and nonprofit private agencies on the basis of such considerations as the number of runaway youth in the community, the existing availability of private or local sources of funding for such facilities, the existing availability of facilities and services for transient youth, and the success of particular applicants in attracting and meeting the needs of runaway youth. Requires that to be eligible for assistance under this title a grant must propose to establish, strengthen, or fund an existing or proposed "Runaway House," a locally controlled facility with medical and counseling services to provide temporary shelter for juveniles who have left home without permission of their parents. Sets forth requirements for each proposal: (1) each child under eighteen years of age who uses the facility and its services, or the staff of the facility for the child, must contact the parents or legal guardians of such child within thirty-six hours of arrival at the facility; (2) each facility must have attached to it, on a consulting, referral, or continuing basis, personnel trained in psychiatry and medicine; (3) the staff of each facility must contact such authorities as are appropriate within forty-eight hours of the arrival of a child under eighteen years of age to check whether the child has committed offenses, has escaped from a juvenile correctional institution, or is in other ways being sought by law enforcement officials; and (4) the staff of the facility shall have due regard for the rights of each child's parents and shall not undertake medical or substantial psychiatric treatment except in strict accord with the law of the jurisdiction of the parent's residence. Requires the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to annually report to Congress on the status and accomplishments of the Runaway House program. Limits the Federal share for each facility to 50 percent of that facility's budget. Authorizes to each of fiscal years 1974, 1975, and 1976 not more than $2,000,000 to carry out this title.
United States · United States Congress · 3 August 1973
District of Columbia Self-Government and Governmental Reorganization Act - Title I: Short Title, Purposes, and definitions - Declares it to be the intention of Congress, subject to the retention by Congress of the ultimate legislative authority over the Nation's Capital which is granted by the Constitution, to grant to the Government of the District of Columbia the powers of local self-Government. Sets forth definitions of terms used in this Act. Title II: Governmental Reorganization - Transfers the District of Columbia Redevelopment Land Agency to the District of Columbia Government. Provides that the National Capital Housing Authority shall be an agency of the District of Columbia Government. Establishes the National Capital Planning Commission as a Federal planning agency to review District plans affecting the Federal Establishment in the National Capital region. Transfers the Secretary of Labor's manpower service functions to the Commissioner of the District of Columbia. Title III: District Charter Preamble, Legislative Power, and Charter Amending Procedures - States that the charter for the District of Columbia set forth in this Act shall establish the means of governing the District following its acceptance by a majority of the registered qualified electors. Sets forth provisions for amending the Charter. Title IV: The District Charter - Establishes a 13 member Council of the District of Columbia, with a term of office of four years. Specifies the qualifications for holding office, and the compensation to be paid. Vests all legislative powers of the District of Columbia (subject to specified Congressional retention) in the Council. Sets forth procedures and responsibilities of the Council and of the Chairman of the Council. Establishes the Office of Mayor, and sets forth provisions for qualifications and compensation. Provides that all executive power of the District shall be vested in the Mayor. Grants the Mayor power to appoint all judges of the District of Columbia Courts, with the advice and consent of the Council from a list of persons nominated by the District of Columbia Judicial Nomination Commission. Directs the Council to adopt a budget for each year, and sets forth appropriations, accounting, auditing, and borrowing measures to be followed. Exempts bonds and notes issued by the Council from all Federal and District taxations. Creates the following independent agencies for the District of Columbia: Board of Elections, Zoning Commission, Public Service Commission, Armory Board, and Board of Education. Provides procedures for recall of the Mayor, or any member of the Council or of the Board of Education. Title V: Federal Payment - Establishes in the Treasury the District of Columbia Federal Payment Trust Fund to help defray the costs of the District Government. Sets forth the duties of the Mayor, the Council, and the Office of Management and Budget in relation to the District's budget. Title VI: Reservation of Congressional Authority - Stipulates that the Council shall have no authority to: (1) impose taxes on United States property; (2) enact any regulation which permits the building of any structure in excess of the 1910 height limitations; or (3) enact any act relating to Federal courts in the District of Columbia. Title VII: Referendum; Sucession in Government; Temporary Provisions; Miscellaneous; Amendments to District of Columbia Election Act; Repeal of Certain Provisions of Law and Rules of Construction; and Effective Dates - Provides for a referendum within 5 months of enactment to determine whether the qualified electors of the District of Columbia accept the Charter (title IV). Transfers the functions of specified existing government agencies to the Council. Provides for the continuance of pending actions and proceedings of defunct agencies. Authorizes the President of the United States to take such action as necessary during the interim period to enable the Board of Elections properly to perform its functions under this Act. States that, for the purpose of preventing duplication, any Federal officer or agency may furnish services to the District Government and any District officer or agency may furnish services to the Federal Government. Provides for an independent annual postaudit by the General Accounting Office. Provides for advisory neighborhood councils to advise the District Government on matters of public policy. Makes conforming amendments to the District of Columbia Election Act concerning elections of the Mayor, the District Delegate, and the Council. Sets forth the effective dates of the titles of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 3 August 1973
Elementary and Secondary Drug Abuse Eradication Act - States that it is the purpose of this Act to provide local educational agencies with the financial resources to bring services and programs to students who are users and potential users of drugs, so that the traffic in drugs in elementary and secondard schools may be eliminated. Directs the Commissioner of Education to carry out a program of making grants to local educational agencies to finance such programs. Sets forth the requirements to be met in applications for such grants. Authorizes to be appropriated $500,000,000 for fiscal year 1974 and $500,000,000 for each of the following four fiscal years to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1973
Federal Grand Jury Reform Act - Provides for a hearing and the right to counsel at such for witnesses who refuse to testify before a grand jury. Sets a limit of time for confinement in a Federal correctional institution for failure to testify. Permits a person to be admitted to bail during an appeal from such confinement. Permits an attorney or defendent to challenge the members of a grand jury if not representative of a fair cross section of the community. States that no person summoned shall be required to testify before any grand jury it, upon hearing, the court finds that: (1) the appearance would impose a hardship on the person or his family because of the venue of the grand jury; (2) a primary purpose is to secure information about a person already under indictment; or (3) compliance would be unreasonable, oppressive, or punitive. Permits a motion for relief form a court order to testify before a grand jury to be made at any time. Requires the court hearing an appeal from a grand jury subpena to take into account the burdens imposed on the witness, the significance of the overt acts alleged, the existence of related investigations and proceedings, and changed circumstances since the summons. Authorizes a motion to dismiss the indictment to be based on objections to the array or on the lack of legal qualifications of an individual juror. Permits attorneys for the witness under examination to be present at grand jury proceedings, and to advise such person but not participate in the proceedings. Prohibits disclosure by such attorney of grand jury deliberations. Requires grand jury proceedings to be recorded, and entitles a witness and his attorney to a transcript of the witness' testimony. States that a grand jury subpena shall contain information sufficient to notify such witness of his right to counsel. Prohibits any information derived from a violation of an individual's constitutional rights to be received by the grand jury. Extends protective safeguards to individuals granted immunity from prosecution for grand jury testimony. Provides that in the case of any individual who has been called to testify, the U.S. district court may issue an order granting immunity and requiring such individual to give testimony which he refuses to give on the basis of his privilege against self-incrimination, except that no such order shall be issued unless: (1) the investigation is authorized by law; (2) the investigation relates to an offense for which an immunity order may be sought; (3) the information sought is relevant to the investigation and the subject matter of the immunity order; and (4) a summary of the evidence relating to the witness has been certified and submitted to the court. Requires an annual report by the Attorney General to the Congress and to the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts of: (1) the number of grand jury proceedings with a description of the investigation undertaken during the preceding year; (2) the number of requests for orders compelling testimony and the number of applications for immunity; (3) the number of instances in which witnesses were held in contempt and confined; (4) the number of arrests and convictions resulting from testimony obtained under orders granting immunity; (5) a description of data banks and other procedures by which grand jury information is stored and used by the Department of Justice; and (6) other appropriate information concerning grand jury activity during such year. (Amends 28 U.S.C. 1826; 18 U.S.C. 3323, 3325, 3326, 6002; adds 18 U.S.C. 3329-3330a, 6006-6007)
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1973
Extends the provisions of the Federal securities laws, under the Securities Act of 1933 and other specified Acts, to persons investing in securities of carriers regulated by the Interstate Commerce Commission.
United States · United States Congress · 23 July 1973
Prohibits the States, under the Voting Rights Act, from denying the right to vote in Federal elections to former criminal offenders who have not been convicted of any offense related to voting or elections and who are not confined in a correctional institution. Authorizes the Attorney General of the United States to institute actions necessary to implement the purposes of this act and confers jurisdiction on the district courts of the United States to hear proceedings instituted under this title. Prescribes a fine of up to $5000 and/or up to a 5 years prison term for persons denying any person a right secured by this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 19 July 1973
Provides that after December 31, 1975, the Secretary of Transportation shall not apportion any funds under this Act to any State which has not fully implemented the requirements of those uniform safety standards promulgated by the Secretary on or before December 31, 1973, or with respect to standards revised or promulgated after December 31, 1973, has not fully implemented the requirements of such standards within two years after their revision or promulgation. Provides that Federal-aid highway funds apportioned on or after January 1, 1976, to any State which has not fully implemented the requirements of the uniform standards promulgated by the Secretary under this section on or before December 31, 1973, or, with respect to standards revised or promulgated after December 31, 1973, has not fully implemented the requirements of such standards within two years after their revision or promulgation, shall be reduced by amounts equal to 20 percent of the amounts which would otherwise be apportioned to such State until such time as such State is fully implementing such standards. Allows the Secretary to suspend, whenever he deems it to be in the public interest, the application of the two preceding sentences to a State for a period not to exceed one additional year. (Amends 23 U.S.C. 402)
United States · United States Congress · 19 July 1973
Expresses the sense of the House that the United States Government should seek agreement with other members of the United Nations on prohibition of weather modification activity as a weapon of war.
United States · United States Congress · 17 July 1973
Trade Adjustment Assistance Act - Title I: Transfer of Functions and Establishment of Administration and Interagency Committee - States that it is the purpose of this Act to establish a comprehensive program of trade adjustment assistance, under the direction of the Secretary of Labor, administered by the Departments of Labor and Commerce, with the advice of an Interagency Committee on Trade Adjustment, in order to deal with problems caused by economic dislocation resulting from foreign trade flows. Establishes within the Department of Labor the Trade Adjustment Assistance Administration to assist the Secretary of Labor in carrying out the purposes of this Act. Establishes an Interagency Committee on Trade Adjustment to: (1) advise and assist the Secretary and Administrator with respect to the activities of the Trade Adjustment Assistance Administration under this Act; (2) review and evaluate the effectiveness of programs carried out under this Act; (3) conduct surveys and establish area and industry priorities for the application of trade adjustment assistance under this Act; (4) carry out studies and prepare projections of future areas of economic activity in which the United States can expect to be competitively disadvantaged and identify industries in which economic adjustment assistance may be necessary; and (5) conduct research and propose new measures and programs to provide economic adjustment assistance to workers and firms who may be eligible for assistance under this Act. Title II: Trade Adjustment Assistance - Prescribes the requirements for a firm, individual, or community to receive trade adjustment assistance under this Act. Provides that upon the filing of a petition the Secretary shall determine whether a firm, the workers of a firm, or a community is eligible for economic adjustment assistance under this Act. States that a firm certified as eligible for economic adjustment assistance under this Act may, at any time within 2 years after the date of such certification, file an application with the Secretary for such economic adjustment assistance. States that, within a reasonable time after filing its application, the firm shall present a proposal for its economic adjustment. Provides that trade adjustment assistance under this Act consists of technical assistance, financial assistance, and tax assistance, which may be furnished singly or in combination. Authorizes the Secretary to provide a firm, on such terms and conditions as he determines to be appropriate, such technical assistance, financial assistance in the form of guarantees of loans, and tax assistance as the Secretary determines will materially contribute to the economic adjustment of the firm. States that the Secretary and the Comptroller General of the United States shall have access for the purpose of audit and examination to any books, documents, papers, and records of the recipient pertaining to economic adjustment assistance under this Act. Stipulates that whoever makes a false statement of a material fact knowing it to be false, or knowingly fails to disclose a material fact, or whoever willfully overvalues any security, for the purpose of influencing in any way the action of the Secretary under this Act, or for the purpose of obtaining money, property, or anything of value under this Act, shall be fined not more than $5,000 or imprisoned for not more than two years, or both. Authorizes any adversely affected worker to file an application with the Secretary for economic adjustment assistance in the form of readjustment allowances, training benefits, relocation allowances, and early retirement benefits. Sets forth the amounts and limits on payments to adversely affected workers, and provides time limitations on such readjustment allowances. Requires every adversely affected worker who applies for a readjustment allowance under this Act to apply for testing, counseling, training and placement assistance. Directs the Secretary, insofar as possible, to provide assistance under this Act through existing programs established by law. Directs the Secretary to contract for basic and supplemental hospital and medical care for persons reciving assistance under this Act under such insurance plans as he deems appropriate. Provides that a relocation allowance may be granted to assist an adversely affected worker in relocating within the United States if the Secretary determines that such worker cannot reasonably be expected to secure suitable employment in the commuting area in which he resides and that such worker: (1) has obtained suitable employment affording a reasonable expectation of long-term duration in the area in which he wishes to relocated, or (2) has obtained a bona fide offer of such employment. Authorizes the Secretary to provide early retirement payments to eligible, adversely affected workers in specified amounts. Authorizes the Secretary on the behalf of the United States to enter into an agreement with any State or State agency under which such State or agency will receive applications for, and will provide assistance under, the programs established by this Act. Provides that a community certified as eligible to apply for adjustment assistance may, at any time within two years after the date of such certification, file an application with the Secretary of Commerce for adjustment assistance under this Act. Directs the Interagency Committee, in conjunction with labor, business, and community representatives of the concerned community, to develop a proposal for the community's economic adjustment. Specifies technical and financial assistance available to communities under this Act. Title III: Location of Firms - Requires every firm with plans to relocate facilities outside the United States to apply for all economic adjustment assistance for which its workers are entitled under this Act and to offer first choice of future employment in their other facilities to individuals employed in the old facilities. Provides that any firm which fails without good cause to comply with the requirements of this section shall be liable to the United States for one-half the cost incurred in providing economic adjustment assistance to its workers. Title IV: Establishment of an Early Warning System - Requires the Trade Adjustment Assistance Administration to undertake to develop an integrated system of foreign and domestic economic statistics, which would provide the data necessary to forecast problems of economic adjustment, and to shift industrial and manpower planning into priority economic areas. Requires each firm engaged in the manufacture, sale, or transportation of products in the interstate or foreign commerce of the United States to give the Trade Adjustment Assistance Administration advance notice of decisions to relocate facilities outside the United States, which would cause any total separations, partial separations, or other reductions in their work force. Provides that any firm or individual who willfully violates this section shall be assessed a civil penalty by the Administrator of not more than $5,000 for each such violation.
United States · United States Congress · 17 July 1973
National Oil Recycling Act - Presents the finding of the Congress that hundreds of millions of gallons of used oil are being wasted each year. Imposes a tax of 6 cents per gallon, to be paid by the manufacturer or producer, on lubricating, hydraulic and cutting oils which are sold in the United States. Exempts from the tax those oils which are recycled oils. Repeals the provisions of law which presently provide off-highway users of lubricating oils with a tax refund of 6 cents per gallon under the Internal Revenue Code of 1954. Directs all Federal officials to act within their authority to encourage the use of recycled oil. Provides incentives for encouragement by the States of the use of recycled oil. Provides for the labeling of recycled oil. Requires automotive oil packaged for sale for carry-away by the consumer to be sold in resealable containers capable of holding used oil without spillage. Requires persons making such sales to collect a customer deposit of $0.10 per resealable container. Provides that this deposit shall be refunded upon return of the container. Provides for those persons selling automotive oils to maintain used oil collection facilities on their premises. Prohibits the making of any contract or agreement where the intent of such contract or agreement is to discourage the recycling of used oil. Provides for a fine of $50,000 for each violation of this provision, or imprisonment for a term of up to one year, or both. Requires users of more than 100 gallons of industrial oil per year to maintain records for purposes of this Act. Authorizes appropriations to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 11 July 1973
Official Accountability Act - States that the purpose of this Act is to assure that public officials charged with the implementation of foreign, military, and national security policy will do so according to law. Title I: National Security Crimes - Describes the persons subject to this Act. Provides that no such person shall engage in the planning or preparation for, or initiation or waging in any way of aggression or a war in violation of any international treaty, agreement, or assurance to which the United States is a party. Declares that no such person shall order or engage in the planning of, preparation for, or commission of any violation of the laws and customs of war. Provides sanctions for violations of this Act and states that no person who violates this Act pursuant to an order of his government or superior shall be relieved of criminal liability for such violation unless he did not know and could not reasonably have been expected to know that the act ordered was unlawful. Title II: Administration and Enforcement - Establishes a Legal Office of National Security Affairs which shall be independent of the executive departments and shall be directed by a National Security Solicitor and an Assistant Solicitor. Directs the Solicitor to enforce the prohibitions contained in Title I of this Act by conducting appropriate investigations and any kind of legal proceedings civil or criminal, including grand jury proceedings and proceedings before committing magistrates, which United States attorneys are authorized by law to conduct. Requires the Solicitor to conduct public hearings at least twice a year for the purpose of hearing testimony and taking evidence from individuals claiming to possess information relevant to any violation of this Act. Directs the Solicitor to render advisory opinions when requested to do so by the President or the Congress