United States · United States Congress · 8 September 1976
Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to make grants to public and nonprofit private entities which are engaged in the development of new schools of veterinary medicine to assist in such development. Requires applying schools to demonstrate that there is a reasonable indication that non- Federal financial resources for development will be available and that Federal assistance will accelerate the date on which the school will be able to begin its teaching program.
United States · United States Congress · 1 September 1976
Amends the Education Amendments of 1972 to exempt from the sex discrimination prohibition provision of such Act, musical or social programs or activities.
United States · United States Congress · 31 August 1976
Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to direct the Federal Communications Commission to promulgate: (1) regulations governing the rates, terms, and conditions for pole attachments (defined as any attachments on a pole, duct, conduit, or other right-of-way owned or controlled by a utility); and (2) minimum standards which a State must meet in order to be eligible for exemption from such regulations. Increases the amounts of the fines which may be levied against a person who has been determined to have violated the terms of a broadcast license or permit.
United States · United States Congress · 31 August 1976
Arthritis, Diabetes, and Digestive Disease Amendments - Title I: Arthritis and Related Musculoskeletal Diseases - Amends the Public Health Service Act to repeal the authority of the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to make grants to establish and support projects for the development and demonstration of methods for arthritis prevention. Stipulates that projects for the development and demonstration of arthritis screening, detection, and referral methods shall emphasize new and improved methods for dissemination of information to the general public. Authorizes the appropriation of $3,000,000 for fiscal year 1978, $4,000,000 for fiscal year 1979, and $5,000,000 for fiscal year 1980 for arthritis screening, detection, and referral data system demonstration projects. Amends the Public Health Service Act to require that arthritis centers established under such Act conduct arthritis research training programs for physicians and other health professionals. Authorizes the appropriation of $18,700,000 for fiscal year 1978, $19,000,000 for fiscal year 1979, and $20,000,000 for fiscal year 1980 to arthritis centers for arthritis screening, detection, and referral demonstration projects. Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to establish a National Arthritis Advisory Board to: (1) review and evaluate the Arthritis Plan formulated under the National Arthritis Act of 1974; and (2) assure the most effective utilization and organization of arthritis resources. Makes provision for staffing and compensation of the Board. Authorizes the appropriation of $100,000 for fiscal year 1978 and such sums as may be necessary for each of the following two fiscal years to carry out the activities of the Board. Title II: Diabetes - Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to establish a National Diabetes Advisory Board to insure the implementation of the long-range plan formulated by the National Commission on Diabetes under the National Diabetes Mellitus Research and Education Act to combat diabetes. Specifies seven Federal health officers as members of the Board, in addition to seven health professionals and five members of the general public to be appointed by the Secretary. Makes provision for staffing and compensation. Authorizes the Board to enter into contracts or other arrangements, or to take such other action as may be necessary to carry out its functions. Authorizes the Board to engage in and sponsor activities, collect data, and provide technical assistance as it deems necessary and advisable in the performance of its functions. Requires the Board to submit simultaneously to the President and Congress an Annual Diabetes Report describing Board activities in the prior year and progress made in diabetes research, treatment, and education with specific reference to the long-range plan to combat diabetes mellitus and suggesting recommended future expenditures and legislation. Authorizes the appropriation of $500,000 for fiscal year 1978 and such sums as are necessary for each of the four fiscal years thereafter. Authorizes, under the Public Health Service Act, the appropriation of specified sums in fiscal years 1978-1980 for the purpose of making grants to centers for research and training in diabetes mellitus and related endocrine and metabolic disorders. Title III: Digestive Diseases - Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to establish a National Commission on Digestive Diseases. Directs the Commission to develop and recommend a long-range plan for the use of national resources to deal with digestive diseases, such plan to include provisions for: (1) research studies into the biological process related to digestive diseases; (2) investigations into the epidemiology, etiology, diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and control of such diseases; (3) development of coordinated health care systems to combat digestive diseases; and (4) education and training of scientists, clinicians, educators, and allied health professionals in fields related to digestive diseases. Makes provision for staffing and compensation for the Commission. Directs the Commission to make a final report to Congress within 18 months of its initial meeting, such report to include the projected costs of implementing programs to combat digestive diseases, legislative recommendations, and a long-range plan for dealing with such diseases. Authorizes the appropriation of $1,500,000, without fiscal year limitation, to carry out the activities of the Commission. Directs the Secretary to establish a Coordinating Committee for Digestive Diseases to improve coordination among Federal agencies in the research, training, control, and treatment of digestive diseases.
United States · United States Congress · 26 August 1976
Authorizes the President to issue a proclamation designating the week beginning October 3, 1976, and ending October 9, 1976, as "National Volunteer Firemen Week."
United States · United States Congress · 23 August 1976
Deletes the provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act which limit to two the number of petitions for preference status which may be granted to a petitioner on behalf of an alien orphan immigrating to the United States for adoption.
United States · United States Congress · 10 August 1976
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the President shall submit a full report to Congress on fundamental human rights and cultural freedoms in Romania with special emphasis on the national minorities, showing concrete measures taken to ameliorate their situation by the Romanian Government. Directs that should no ameliorative measures occur, it is the sense of the House that the 1975 United States-Romanian Trade Agreement and the most-favored-nation treatment of the Socialist Republic of Romania shall not be extended.
United States · United States Congress · 5 August 1976
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide that the amount of the charitable deduction allowed for expenses incurred in the operation of a motor vehicle shall include that portion of the costs of operating and maintaining such vehicle (including a reasonable allowance for depreciation) which is allocable to such operation, and shall be determined in the same manner as if such operation were in connection with a trade or business of the taxpayer.
United States · United States Congress · 4 August 1976
National Influenza Program - Amends the Public Health Service Act to direct the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to establish, conduct, and support activities necessary to carry out a national influenza immunization program. Directs the Secretary to make quarterly reports to Congress on the administration of such activities. Directs the Secretary to conduct a study of the scope and extent of liability for personal injuries arising out of immunization programs and of alternative approaches to providing protection against such liability and compensation for such injuries. Requires the Secretary to report the results of such study, along with legislative recommendations, to Congress within one year of enactment of these provisions. Makes the United States liable with respect to claims for personal injury or death resulting from the administration of vaccine under the immunization program. Establishes procedures under which all such claims will be asserted directly against the United States and makes such procedures the exclusive legal remedy.
United States · United States Congress · 30 July 1976
Amends Title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to include podiatrist's services as physician services for the purposes of the medical assistance program of that Title.
United States · United States Congress · 28 July 1976
Provides that the automatic cost-of-living increases in benefits which are authorized under title II (Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act may be made on a semiannual basis (rather than only on an annual basis as at present).
United States · United States Congress · 28 July 1976
Authorizes and directs the Secretary of Labor, through the Bureau of Labor Statistics, to prepare, as part of the Consumer Price Index published monthly by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a consumer price index (to be known as the Consumer Price Index for the Aged and Other Social Security Beneficiaries) designed to reflect the relevant price information for individuals, as a group, who are 65 years of age or older or are otherwise entitled to monthly benefits under Title II (Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act.
United States · United States Congress · 28 July 1976
Creates a nine member House Select Committee on the Fiscal Problems of Cities. Directs the committee to conduct a study to identify the nature and causes of problems afflicting large cities which face severe fiscal imbalance. Provides that consideration shall be given problems which contribute to the financial plight of cities, including: (1) net outmigration of population; (2) decline in employment opportunities; (3) adverse city/suburban relationships; (4) cost of public services; (5) rising crime rates; (6) lack of new investment in housing; and (7) racial, ethnic, and economic segregation. Calls upon the committee to develop a policy regarding the appropriate role of various levels of government in the solution of such problems. Requires the committee to evaluate the consequences of, and coordination among, existing Federal policies and programs which relate to the major problems identified by the committee. Directs the committee to formulate specific recommendations regarding Federal legislation and executive administrative action for modifications of or alternatives to present Federal programs.
United States · United States Congress · 27 July 1976
Amends Rule XXII of the Rules of the House of Representatives to remove the limitation on the number of Members who may introduce jointly any bill, memorial, or resolution. Provides that the name of any Member may be added or deleted as a sponsor of a bill, memorial, or resolution which has been introduced if a request on behalf of such Member is made by a Member to the Speaker prior to the enactment or adoption of such bill, memorial, or resolution by the House.
United States · United States Congress · 21 July 1976
Hazardous Waste Management Act - Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to develop and promulgate criteria for identifying the characteristics of hazardous waste and to list particular hazardous wastes which shall be subject to the provisions of this Act. Prohibits the treatment, storage, or disposal of hazardous waste identified or listed by the Administrator unless a permit is issued pursuant to this Act. Directs the Administrator to promulgate regulations for the issuance of such permits and authorizes the Administrator to issue the permits subject to such conditions as deemed necessary to assure compliance with this Act and to minimize any risk to the public health and the environment. Directs the Administrator, after consultation with the Secretary of Transportation, to issue minimum criteria for the establishment of a transportation manifest system for hazardous waste whereby a manifest shall originate with the generator of hazardous waste and accompany each quantity, unit, or load of such waste from the point of generation through transportation, treatment, storage, or disposal. Requires the Administrator to authorize any State which has implemented a program for the control of hazardous waste disposal which meet the minimum requirements established under this Act to issue and enforce permits for the transportation, disposal, treatment, or storage of hazardous wastes. Establishes criteria for the withdrawal of such authorization. Requires any person who handles hazardous waste, upon request of any officer or employee of the Environmental Protection Agency duly designated by the Administrator, or any duly designated officer or employee of a State having an authorized hazardous waste program, to furnish or permit such person at all reasonable times to have access to, and to copy all records relating to, such wastes. Authorizes the Administrator to issue orders requiring compliance with this Act or commence a civil action against a violator in the appropriate United States district court to obtain appropriate relief. Imposes penalties for continued noncompliance with this Act. Sets forth criteria for the revocation of permits issued pursuant to this Act. Requires the Administrator, in consultation with the appropriate Federal and State agencies, to promulagate regulations establishing standards applicable to generators and transporters of hazardous waste, and to operators of hazardous waste treatment, storage, and disposal facilities. Authorizes the Governor of any State to petition the Adminstrator at any time to identify or list a particular discarded material as a hazardous waste. Stipulates that nothing in this Act shall be construed to apply to any activity or substance which is subject to the Federal Water Pollution Control Act or the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 except to the extent that such application is not inconsistent with the requirements of such Acts. Directs the Administrator to integrate all provisions of this Act and avoid duplication, to the maximum extent practicable, with the appropriate provisions of the Clean Air Act, the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, and such other Acts of Congress as grant regulatory authority to the Administrator.
United States · United States Congress · 19 July 1976
Exempts from the sex discrimination provisions of the Education Amendments of 1972, education programs or activities in which participation is limited to parents of either sex and those parents' children of either sex.
United States · United States Congress · 1 July 1976
Prohibits any agreement between a municipality and the Secretary of the Treasury, with respect to withholding of city taxes from the pay of Federal employees, from reporting to the city the name, address, or other identifying particular, or pay, if such release is ordered by a United States district court pursuant to a criminal investigation.
United States · United States Congress · 28 June 1976
Expresses the sense of the Congress that no individual whose social security benefits are increased should suffer, by reason of such increase, a loss of or reduction in any benefits which he or she is otherwise entitled to receive under any Federal or federally assisted program.
United States · United States Congress · 25 June 1976
National Meals-on-Wheels Act - Amends the Older Americans Act of 1965 to allow States to distribute Federal funds for the establishment of: (1) projects to provide home-delivered meals to qualified homebound elderly persons; (2) an information and referral system for homebound individuals receiving such meals; and (3) an operation to seek volunteer personnel for the delivery of such meals and to compensate such personnel for related transportation expenses. Authorizes the appropriation of specified sums in fiscal years 1977 and 1978 for the purpose of providing home-delivered meals under this Act. Directs the Commissioner of the Administration on Aging to conduct a demonstration project involving at least three States to determine the feasibility of using the meals system designed by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration for the elderly as a component of, or substitute for, regular nutrition projects assisted under the Older Americans Act of 1965. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary in fiscal year 1977 to carry out this project.
United States · United States Congress · 23 June 1976
Establishes in the House of Representatives a select committee to be known as the Select Committee on Narcotics Abuse and Control. Provides that the select committee shall conduct a continuing comprehensive study and review of the problems of narcotics abuse and control and shall review any recommendations made by the President, or by any department or agency of the executive branch of the Federal Government, relating to programs or policies affecting narcotics abuse or control. Authorizes the select committee to conduct field investigations or inspections. Requires the select committee to submit an annual report to the House which shall include a summary of the activities of the select committee during the calendar year to which such report applies.
United States · United States Congress · 10 June 1976
Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the licensing of clinical laboratories. Sets forth the standards that must be met to receive and maintain such a license. Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to publish, administer, and enforce national standards for clinical laboratories to assure consistent performance by the laboratories of accurate tests and other procedures. Authorizes the Secretary to delegate regulation and licensing authority to a State if the Secretary determines that such State: (1) has adopted standards for such laboratories and a system of licensure which are no less stringent than the national standards and licensing system; (2) has adopted and is implementing adequate enforcement procedures; (3) will keep records and make reports as the Secretary may require; (4) permits exemptions from the requirements which are no less stringent than exemptions from national standards; and (5) has adopted and can implement adequate procedures for the control of health hazards which may result from an activity of a clinical laboratory. Enumerates conditions under which the Secretary may suspend or revoke the license of a clinical laboratory. Authorizes anyone aggrieved by suspension or revocation of a clinical laboratory license to file a petition for review with the appropriate United States court of appeals. Makes all consequent judgments of such courts subject to review by the Supreme Court. Stipulates that any unlicensed person, requred to be licensed under this Act who solicits or accepts directly or indirectly any specimen for laboratory examination shall be fined not more than $10,000, imprisoned for not more than one year, or both. Stipulates that any owner, operator, or employee of a clinical laboratory who willfully engages in any false, fictitious, or fraudulent billing practice for the purpose of obtaining payment for laboratory services provided under specified Federal health assistance programs shall be fined not more than $10,000, imprisoned for not more than three years, or both. Stipulates that no unlicensed clinical laboratory required to be licensed by this Act may receive a grant, contract, or other form of financial assistance under the Public Health Service Act, or charge or collect for laboratory services for any entity which receives a grant, contract, or financial assistance under such Act. Prohibits discrimination by an employer against an employee who has commenced, participated in, or testified in any proceeding authorized by this Act. Allows employees so discriminated against to file a complaint with the Secretary. Directs the Secretary to investigate such complaints and provide relief or deny the complaint within 90 days of its receipt. Permits persons aggrieved by the Secretary's final action on such complaints to obtain review in the appropriate United States court of appeals. Authorizes agents of the Secretary to enter at reasonable times any clincial laboratory for inspection purposes. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to States with primary enforcement responsibility to assist in meeting the cost of administering programs for the regulation of clinical laboratories, such grants not to exceed 75% of the State's cost. Authorizes the appropriation of specified amounts in fiscal years 1979 through 1981 for the purpose of making such grants. Establishes in the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare an advisory council on clinical laboratories to advise the Secretary with respect to: (1) regulations promulgated under this Act; and (2) coordination between the Federal and State laboratory regulatory programs to avoid duplicate enforcement. Directs the Secretary to establish within the Department an administrative unit to be responsible for the coordination of the regulatory functions authorized by this Act and for specified laboratory regulatory functions under the Social Security Act. Requires the Secretary to make an annual report to Congress on the accuracy of tests and procedures performed by clincial laboratores. Amends the Social Security Act to set forth procedures for determining costs and charges for clinical laboratory services and prohibits reimbursement to the extent that any cost or charge is found to be unreasonable. Directs the Secretary to conduct a study of: (1) existing voluntary certification standards and State licensure laws for clinical laboratory supervisors, technologists, and technicians; and (2) qualifications of entities that certify such personnel as qualified to perform clinical laboratory services. Requires the Secretary to submit to Congress a summary of information received through license exemption applications during the three-year period after national standards for clinical laboratories are promulagated. Directs the Secretary, on the basis of such information, to make recommendations on possible revision of clinical laboratory licensing exemptions.
United States · United States Congress · 9 June 1976
Drug Safety Amendments - Requires, under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, the insertion on packages of any drug which may be sold only upon prescription, the name and place of business of the manufacturer of the final dosage form of the drug and, if different, the name and place of business of the packer or distributor and, in the case of any other drug or device, the name and place of business of the manufacturer, packer, or distributor. Requires reports on, and recordkeeping pertaining to, clinical and preclinical investigation of drugs or substances intended for use as a drug. Provides that if the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare determines that any information obtained or received by him reasonably supports a conclusion that such a drug introduced for commercial distribution may present a significant hazard to human health, or may cause cancer in animals, he shall mail or cause to be mailed to all practitioners licensed by law to administer drugs, a summary of such information. Provides for the conditional approval of new drugs by the Secretary. Authorizes the Secretary to suspend approval of a drug application if a condition has not been met. Authorizes the Secretary, acting through the National Institutes of Health and in consultation with the Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration, to support studies of the short-term or long-term use of drugs and alternative forms of drug therapy and studies involving the comparison of drugs. Authorizes the appropriation of $10,000,000 for each fiscal year for such studies. Requires the Secretary to make an annual report to the Congress on the activities undertaken or supported under this Act. Grants the Secretary authority to suspend approved applications for a new drug, a new animal drug, or a feed containing such a drug upon a finding that such suspension is necessary to reduce or eliminate a significant risk of illness or injury.
United States · United States Congress · 4 June 1976
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the United States reaffirms a sympathetic interest in Italian democracy and democratic institutions. States that the United States is willing to participate in efforts to provide financial assistance to Italy with the assistance of other friends and allies of Italy.
United States · United States Congress · 2 June 1976
Extends the delimiting period in the case of any eligible veteran who is pursuing, during his or her tenth year of eligibility, a program of education. Terminates such extension on whichever of the following dates first occurs: (1) the date on which the veteran completes, or ceases to pursue, the program he was pursuing in his tenth year of eligibility; or (2) the last day of the 11-year period beginning on the date of his discharge from active duty. (Adds 38 U.S.C. 1662(e))
United States · United States Congress · 1 June 1976
Medicare Long-Term Care Act - Repeals existing provisions for post-hospital home health services under Title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act. Establishes, within the hospital insurance program of such Title, a program of long-term care benefits to be provided for aged and disabled individuals including all recipients of supplemental security income benefits and to be financed without additional cost to such individuals, through the Federal Hospital Insurance Trust Fund, from funds appropriated by the Federal Government. States that the benefits provided to an individual by such program shall consist of: (1) home health services; (2) homemaker services; (3) nutrition services; (4) long-term institutional care services; (5) day care and foster home services; and (6) community mental health center outpatient services. Requires that, to the maximum extent possible, such benefits shall be provided by or through community long-term care centers, as defined in this Act; and, in any case where a State has an agency which performs the functions of planning and developing such centers and overseeing their operation the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare shall make grants to the State or State agency to reimburse it for expenses incurred in the performance of such functions. Directs the Secretary to pay 75 percent of the amount expended by a State for the operation of a State long-term care agency. Enumerates the functions of such an agency. Declares that a community long-term care center shall: (1) provide the items and services listed in this Act to each individual (i) who is eligible for benefits under this part, (ii) who resides in the area served by such center and (iii) who is certified as requiring such services; (2) evaluate and certify the long-term care needs of an individual for whom such care may be required in order to maintain such individual in an independent living arrangement which is reasonable given such individual's state of health and other circumstances (but not including such individual's economic circumstances); (3) maintain a continuous relationship with (and periodically evaluate not less than annually) each individual who is receiving any of the items and services listed in this Act; (4) provide full opportunity for such individual and his family to participate in the determinations and functions under this Act; (5) provide an organized system for making its existence and location known to all individuals in its service area who are eligible for benefits under this part, and for making known to such individuals the method or methods by which they may most efficiently obtain and use the services which it makes available; and (6) perform such other functions as the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare may by regulation prescribe in order to have such center most effectively carry out the purposes of this Act. Defines terms used in this Act, including the services to be provided by community long-term care centers. Directs the Secretary to develop and promulgate to community long-term care centers one or more methods of obtaining payment for the benefits covered under this Act. Requires the Secretary to prescribe regulations setting forth the standards of care for homemaker and nutritional services. Establishes the Federal Advisory Council on Long-Term Care. Sets forth the qualifications of the five members of such Council. States that it shall be the duty and function of the Council to provide advice and recommendations for the consideration of the Secretary on regulations under this Act and on matters of general policy with respect to this Act. States that no regulations of the Secretary under this Act shall become effective unless they have first been approved by the Council. States that the determination of whether an individual is entitled to benefits under this Act shall be made by the Secretary in accordance with regulations prescribed by him. Authorizes the appropriation to the Federal Hospital Insurance Trust Fund of such sums as the Secretary considers necessary for any fiscal year for the purposes of the program created by this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants and enter into contracts with institutions to meet the cost of training programs in the techniques and methods of providing long-term health care.
United States · United States Congress · 26 May 1976
Aircraft Noise Reduction and Airport Protection Act - Directs the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration to promulgate regulations prescribing noise standards for the operation of civil subsonic turbojet powered aircraft above a specified weight at any airport within the United States. States that such regulations shall provide for requirements of partial compliance at intervals prior to the end of a five-year period after the enactment of this Act. Prohibits the operation of aircraft which do not meet such requirements at the end of such five-year period. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to publish a list of the operators of noncomplying aircraft. Authorizes grants to such individuals to retrofit or replace such noncomplying aircraft. Authorizes appropriations out of the Airport and Airway Trust Fund of $300,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 1977, 1978, 1979, and 1980 to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 25 May 1976
Directs the Federal courts to consider, in their determinations of the imposition of terms of imprisonment for criminal offenses, the following factors: (1) the nature and circumstances of the offense and the history and characteristics of the defendant; (2) the need for the sentence imposed to reflect the seriousness of the offense and the providing of adequate deterrence to criminal conduct; (3) whether other less restrictive sanctions have been applied to the defendant frequently or recently; and (4) any sentencing guidelines established by the Commission under this Act. Establishes a United States Commission on Sentencing as an independent commission within the judicial branch of the United States Government to consist of five members appointed by the United States Judicial Conference. Directs such Commission to promulgate and distribute to all Federal courts guidelines for sentencing consistent with this Act. Empowers the Commission to establish general policies and rules necessary to carry out this Act. Empowers the Commission to utilize the services and information of other Federal, State, local and private agencies with or without reimbursement therefor. Empowers the Commission to establish a research and development program for the purpose of: (1) serving as a clearinghouse and information center for the collection, preparation, and dissemination of information on Federal sentencing practices; and (2) assisting and serving in a consulting capacity to Federal courts, departments, and agencies in the development, maintenance, and coordination of sound sentencing practices. Empowers the Commission to devise and conduct a training program of short-term instruction in sentencing techniques for judicial and probation personnel and other persons connected with the sentencing process. Requires the Commission to report annually to the Congress, the Judicial Conference, and the President on its activities. (Adds 18 U.S.C. 3579, 3621, 3657, 3742, 3801-5)
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 1976
Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act - Title I: Statement of Findings and Policy - Declares that most of the nation's coal reserve can only be mined by underground methods. Lists the purposes of this Act, including to establish a nationwide program to prevent the adverse effects to society and the environment from surface coal mining. Title II: Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement - Establishes in the Interior Department the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement with a Director appointed by the President. States that such Office shall administer the programs required by this Act and assist the States in development of State programs for surface coal mining and reclamation. States that the Office shall be considered an independent Federal regulatory body. Title III: State Mining and Mineral Resources Research Institute - Authorizes appropriations to the Secretary of the Interior of sums adequate to provide for each participating State $200,000 for fiscal year 1975, $300,000 for fiscal year 1976, and $400,000 for each fiscal year thereafter for five years, to assist the States in carrying on the work of a competent and qualified mining and mineral resources research institute or center at the school of mines of one public college or university of the State. Requires such monies to be matched dollar-for-dollar by the States. Authorizes appropriations of $15,000,000 for fiscal year 1975, such sum to be increased by $2,000,000 each fiscal year for six years thereafter, for specific projects in mining and mineral research in institutes. Directs the Secretary to establish a center for cataloging current and projected scientific research in mining and mineral resources. Requires the Secretary to appoint an Advisory Committee on Mining and Mineral Research to advise him on all matters concerning mining and mineral resources research. Title IV: Abandoned Mine Reclamation - Creates the Abandoned Mine Reclamation Fund in the Treasury. Requires operators of coal mines to pay into the fund quarterly fees of $.35 per ton of coal produced by surface mining and $.15 per ton of coal produced by underground mining, or ten percent of the value of the coal in the mine, whichever is less. Authorizes use of money in the Fund for acquisition and reclamation of abandoned and unreclaimed mine lands and for acquisitions and fillings of voids and sealing of tunnels and entryways in abandoned mines. Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to enter into agreements with landowners, including owners of water rights, under which such landowners shall furnish a conservation and development plan and shall effect such plan in return for financial assistance from the Secretary of Agriculture of up to 80 percent of the cost of such a reclamation effort. Encourages States to acquire abandoned and unreclaimed land, and to transfer it to the Secretary for reclamation, and authorizes matching grants for such purpose, up to 90 percent of the land price. Allows resale of reclaimed land by public bidding, and allows local public participation in determining the use of reclaimed land. Title V: Control of the Environmental Impacts of Surface Coal Mining - Directs the Secretary of the Interior to publish, within 180 days of the enactment of this Act, regulations which establish a permanent regulatory procedure and performance standards for surface coal mining and reclamation standards. Requires the Secretary to obtain the concurrence of the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency with respect to regulations concerned with air or water quality standards. Establishes a permit program to require mining operators to comply with environmental protection standards. Allows State control over surface mining permits if certain requirements are met. Authorizes the implementation of a Federal program if States fail to Act. Imposes the following general environmental performance standards on surface mining operations as a condition of the issuance of a permit under this Act: (1) restoration of the land affected to a prior use, consistent with public health and safety; (2) restoration to the original contour of the land and backfilling, grading, and compacting the excess overburden and other waste materials to attain the lowest grade; (3) removal and segregation of topsoil in a separate layer where it is able to support vegetation; (4) minimize disturbances to the hydrologic balance at the minesite and surrounding areas by eliminating or reducing toxic drainage, siltation, and contamination problems; (5) conformity with standards for the design and location of coal mine waste piles; and (6) establishment of a diverse, effective, and permanent vegetation on regarded areas. Stipulates that the regulatory authority shall make test borings of core samplings for mining operators with an estimated annual production of less than 250,000 tons of coal. Establishes additional requirements for steep-slope surface mining operations. Defines the term "steep-slope" to include any slope above 20 degrees or lesser slopes as may be defined by the regulatory authority. Permits State laws and regulations that are more stringent than those set forth pursuant to this Act. Requires permit applications to describe the method of mining and equipment proposed to be used, to describe by maps the land to be affected, and to contain a statement of results of test borings or core samplings of the affected land. Stipulates that permits must be accompanied by a mining and reclamation plan which shall include a description of present uses of the land, steps to be taken to prevent environmental damage, and a description of the reclamation activities. Requries the posting of performance bonds and possession of liability insurance by applicants for permits. Requires the establishment of coal exploration regulations by appropriate State and Federal authorities. Requires that such regulations include provisions for reclamation of lands disturbed in exploration activities. Directs the Secretary to promulgate rules and regulations directed at the surface effects of underground mining. Directs and authorizes inspection of surface coal mining and reclamation to determine compliance with this Act and regulations. Provides requirements for recordkeeping and submittal and monitoring by mine operators. Requires surprise inspection by regulatory agencies not less than once a month. Imposes civil penalties for violation of this Act or regulations under it. Establishes procedures for citizen suits and judicial review of actions under this Act. Establishes conditions under which mine operators may request a release of all or part of the performance bond. Requires public notice and hearings upon applications for such releases. Requires States to establish, as a condition of assuming primary regulatory control, a planning process designed to identify lands unsuitable for surface coal mining. Requires designation of lands as unsuitable if it can be shown that reclamation pursuant to the requirements of the Act is not feasible. Authorizes designation of lands as unsuitable where operations mining will: (1) be incompatible with land use plans or programs; (2) affect fragile or historic lands of significant historic, scientific or esthetic value; (3) affect renewable land resources with an impact on long-range food and water supply; and (4) increase a significant hazard to life and property, including the possibility of flood and earthquake damage. Prohibits surface coal mining operations on certain Federal lands, or within 100 feet of a public road or within 300 feet of a building or dwelling, unless the consent of the affected public or private interest is obtained. Requires implementation of a Federal lands program applicable to all surface coal mining and reclamation activities pursuant to Federal laws or taking place on Federal lands. Requires that coal exploration operations which substantially disturb the natural land surface on such lands be subject to a permit program established by the Secretary of the Interior. Requires separate regulations for programs for special bituminous coal surface mines that meet specified criteria, and for anthracite coal surface mines which are regulated by environmental protection standards of the States. Title VI: Designation of Lands Unsuitable for Noncoal Mining - Allows the Secretary to designate Federal lands unsuitable for mining materials other than coal, if they are predominantly urban or suburban in character or if such mining operations would have an adverse impact on lands used primarily for residential and related purposes. Title VII: Administrative and Miscellaneous Provisions - Defines the terms used in this Act. Prohibits discrimination against employees for filing suit under this Act and for testifying in a proceeding under this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to make annual grants to the States to assist the States in developing, administering, and enforcing State programs under this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to provide technical assistance and training, and assistance in preparing and maintaining a continuing inventory of information on surface coal mining and reclamation projects. Requires the Secretary to submit an annual report to the President and the Congress. Directs the Secretary to contract with the National Academy of Sciences-National Academy of Engineering for a study of surface coal mining conditions in Alaska in order to determine which, if any, of the provisions of this Act should be modified with respect to such operations in Alaska. Directs the Chairman of the Council on Environmental Quality to contract with the National Academy of Sciences-National Academy of Engineering and other groups for a study of the technology for surface and open-pit mining and reclamation for minerals other than coal designed to assist in the development of regulation for such operations. Directs the Secretary to consult with Indian tribes in studying the regulation of surface mining on Indian lands. Requires all surface coal mining operations on Indian lands to comply with requirements at least as stringent as specified provisions in this Act within 30 months from the enactment of this Act. Authorizes the appropriation of the following sums to carry out this Act: (1) for various contract authority, $10,000,000 immediately and $10,000,000 for the next two fiscal years; (2) for the performance of test borings by the regulatory authority, an amount reserved for such purpose from the Abandoned Mine Reclamation Fund not to exceed $40,000,000; (3) for administrative and other purposes, $10,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $20,000,000 for fiscal years 1978 and 1979, and $30,000,000 for fiscal years thereafter; and (4) for research and demonstration projects of alternative coal mining technologies, $35,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, and for the next four years.
United States · United States Congress · 30 April 1976
Amends the Medicare program of the Social Security Act to authorize payment under the supplementary medical insurance program for specified diagnostic tests and physical examinations given for the detection of breast cancer.
United States · United States Congress · 27 April 1976
Replaces Federal criminal statutory provisions penalizing "rape" and "carnal knowledge of females under 16" with provisions penalizing "sexual assault." Designates guilty of sexual assault any person who knowingly engages in sexual contact or penetration of another person without such person's consent. Imposes penalties for sexual contact or penetration of any person who has not attained the age of 18, notwithstanding such person's consent. Sets forth penalties for such assault according to specified criteria, including the consideration of aggravating factors. Specifies procedures for medical examination of alleged victims of offenses under this Act. Prohibits the introduction of evidence of the victim's prior sexual activity unless the court determines after an in camera hearing that the evidence is relevant and material and does not constitute an unnecessary invasion of privacy. (Amends 18 U.S.C. 2031-35)
United States · United States Congress · 13 April 1976
Establishes in the House of Representatives the Select Committee on Nuclear Proliferation and Nuclear Export Policy. Directs the Committee to conduct a full and complete study of: (1) the threat of nuclear proliferation; (2) the present policies of the United States concerning nuclear proliferation; (3) the decisionmaking process within the executive branch on nuclear export policies; and (4) any related areas which the committee deems necessary to investigate and study to discharge its responsibilities. Directs the committee to report to the House as soon as practicable the results of its investigation and study, together with such recommendations as it deems advisable.
United States · United States Congress · 8 April 1976
Authorizes under the Federal Civil Defense Act of 1950 the use of Federal civil defense funds by local civil defense agencies for natural disaster relief. Increases the Federal contribution for travel expenses and per diem allowances for students in civil defense training programs and increases the Federal financial contribution to States for civil defense personnel and administrative expenses. Increases the authorization for appropriations under such Act for travel expenses, for personal equipment for State and local workers,and for personnel and administrative expenses.
United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1976
Local Public Works Capital Development and Investment Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce, acting through the Economic Development Administration, to make grants to any State or local government for local public works projects, including but not limited to: (1) those public works projects of State and local governments for which Federal financial assistance is authorized under provisions of law other than this Act; and (2) the architectural design, engineering, and related planning of local public works projects. Stipulates that the Federal share of any project for which a grant is made under this Act shall be 100 percent of the cost of such project. Authorizes the Secretary to make an additional grant for the purpose of increasing to 100 percent the Federal contribution to a public works project for which Federal financial assistance is authorized under provisions of law other than this Act. Stipulates that no such grants shall be made for any project which has as its principal purpose the channelization, damming, dredging, or diversion of a natural watercourse, or the enlargement of any canal other than a canal designated as a historic site. Directs the Secretary to prescribe rules, regulations, and procedures necessary to carry out this Act. Lists factors that the Secretary shall consider in accordance with the relative needs of the various sections of the country, with priority consideration to those areas where unemployment exceeds the national average. Stipulates that not less than one-half of one percent nor more than ten percent of all amounts authorized under this title shall be allocated for local public works projects within any one State. Authorizes the appropriation of $2,500,000,000 through fiscal year 1977 in order to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 6 April 1976
Solid Waste Energy and Resource Recovery Act - Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency: (1) to assist with research projects for the development of pilot plant facilities for the purpose of investigating new fuels, recovery methods, or technology; (2) to conduct demonstrations of new methods and technology; and (3) to test and evaluate such pilot plants and demonstration projects. Directs the Administrator to establish a program for the collection and dissemination of information to assist Federal, State, interstate, regional, and local agencies in planning and building solid waste collection, recycling and recovery facilities. Sets forth specific areas to be covered by such program. Directs the Administrator to make grants to State, interstate, municipal and intermunicipal agencies for: (1) the implementation of solid waste management plans and planning programs; (2) the development and revision of solid waste disposal plans as part of regional environmental protection systems; (3) the development of interlocal regions and establishment of regional agencies; (4) the development of proposals for various projects; and (5) the planning of programs for the removal and processing of abandoned motor vehicle hulks. Authorizes the Administrator to impose conditions consistent with the purposes of this Act upon such grants. Limits the amount of available Federal assistance to 85 percent of the total cost. Authorizes the Administrator to guarantee loans incurred by State, regional, or local government agencies to finance the construction of large-scale fuel, energy, or resource recovery facilities. Limits the total outstanding indebtedness allowed under this Act to $75,000,000. Sets forth procedures for applying for loan guarantees under this Act. Authorizes the Administrator to make grants to a State, regional authority or local government agency for the construction, operation, or maintenance of fuel, energy, and resource recovery facilities when such facilities cannot be financed by any other means. Limits the amount of each grant to 25 percent of the total cost of the project. Authorizes the appropriation of the following amounts for solid waste research and development and for grants for energy and resource recovery programs: $65,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1977; $17,000,000 for the transitional period ending September 30, 1977; and $70,000,000 for fiscal year 1978. Authorizes the appropriation of the following sums for grants for State, interstate, and local planning: $35,000,000 for fiscal year 1977; $9,000,000 for the transitional period; and $45,000,000 for fiscal year 1978. Authorizes the appropriation of the following sums for grants for construction of facilities: $40,000,000 for fiscal year 1977; 12,000,000 for the transitional period; and $60,000,000 for fiscal year 1978.
United States · United States Congress · 2 April 1976
National Diabetes Advisory Board Act - Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to establish a National Diabetes Advisory Board to insure the implementation of the long-range plan formulated by the National Commission on Diabetes to combat diabetes. Specifies seven Federal health officers as members of the Board, in addition to seven health professionals and five members of the general public to be appointed by the Secretary. Makes provision for staffing and compensation. Authorizes the Board to enter into contracts or other arrangements, or to take such other action as may be necessary to carry out its functions. Authorizes the Board to engage in and sponsor activities, collect data, and provide technical assistance as it deems necessary and advisable in the performance of its functions. Requires the Board to submit simultaneously to the President and Congress an Annual Diabetes Report describing Board activities in the prior year and progress made in diabetes research, treatment, and education with specific reference to the long-range plan to combat diabetes mellitus and suggesting recommended future expenditures and legislation. Authorizes the appropriation of $500,000 for fiscal year 1976 and such sums as are necessary for each of the four fiscal years thereafter. Authorizes the Secretary to make distinguished scientist awards to individual scientists who have shown continuous and outstanding productivity in diabetes research for the purpose of continuing such research. Limits the amount of each grant to no more than $35,000 per year. Authorizes the appropriation of specified amounts for the purpose of making such grants in fiscal years 1976-1980. Authorizes, under the Public Health Service Act, the appropriation of specified sums in fiscal years 1977-1981 for the purpose of making grants to centers for research and training in diabetes mellitus and related endocrine and metabolic disorders.
United States · United States Congress · 31 March 1976
Authorizes and requests the President to issue annually a proclamation designating the first week of May of each year as "Clean Air Week," and inviting the Governors and Mayors of State and local governments to issue similar proclamations. Requests the President to consider including in such a proclamation an invitation calling upon the communications media and all organizations and individuals concerned with programs to improve the quality of the atmosphere to participate in "Clean Air Week."
United States · United States Congress · 24 March 1976
Replaces Federal criminal statutory provisions penalizing "rape" and "carnal knowledge of females under 16" with provisions penalizing "sexual assault." Designates guilty of sexual assault any person who knowingly engages in sexual contact or penetration of another person without such person's consent. Imposes penalties for sexual contact or penetration of any person who has not attained the age of 18, notwithstanding such person's consent. Sets forth penalties for such assault according to specified criteria, including the consideration of aggravating factors. Specifies procedures for medical examination of alleged victims of offenses under this Act. Prohibits the introduction of evidence of the victim's prior sexual activity unless the court determines after an in camera hearing that the evidence is relevant and material and does not constitute an unnecessary invasion of privacy. (Amends 18 U.S.C. 2031-35)
United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1976
Privacy Protection for Rape Victims Act - Amends the Federal Rules of Evidence to prohibit, in cases of alleged rape or assault with intent to commit rape, the introduction of evidence of the victim's prior sexual conduct or reputation. Makes such prohibition inapplicable to evidence of the victim's prior sexual conduct with the alleged assailant.
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1976
Emergency Medical Services Amendments - Extends the authorization for appropriations through fiscal year 1979 for emergency medical service systems under the Public Health Service Act. Revises provisions related to grants and contracts for the establishment, initial operation, expansion, and improvement of such systems and grants and contracts for research in emergency medical techniques. Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to conduct and support programs designed to aid in the treatment and rehabilitation of individuals injured by burns. Directs the Secretary to conduct studies of: (1) the categories of patients which should be included in a uniform reporting system to evaluate the effectiveness of emergency medical service systems in reducing death and disability; and (2) the effectiveness of Federal assistance for communication systems of public safety agencies.
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1976
Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize the appropriation of specified sums in fiscal years 1976 through 1979 for the purpose of continuing Federal assistance programs for health services research and statistics and Federal programs for assistance to medical libraries. Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to use and permit use of Department resources, provide technical assistance and advice, make grants, and enter into contracts for the provision of health services research and health statistics training for the purpose of aiding federally funded projects for health research experiments.
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1976
Amends the Comprehensive Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Prevention, Treatment, and Rehabilitation Act of 1970 to authorize the appropriation of specified amounts in fiscal years 1976 through 1979 to carry out the purposes of such Act. Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to designate National Alcohol Research Centers for the purpose of interdisciplinary research relating to alcoholism and other alcohol problems. Directs the Secretary to make annual grants to such centers, not in excess of $1,000,000. Requires State alcohol abuse programs and the Secretary to give special consideration to alcohol abuse treatment and prevention for women and juveniles. Entitles alcohol abusers and alcoholics to be treated at outpatient facilities receiving Federal funds for treatment of alcoholism. Requires State alcohol abuse programs to include assurance that there will be some means of evaluating the effectiveness of treatment and rehabilitation programs funded under the Act. Requires that the National Advisory Council on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism approve applications for grants under such Act. Amends the Drug Abuse Office and Treatment Act of 1972 to require State drug abuse programs and the Secretary to give special consideration to drug abuse treatment and prevention for women and juveniles.
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1976
National Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Act - Title I: Health Information and Health Promotion - National Health Information and Health Promotion Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to add title XVII (Health Information and Health Promotion). Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to formulate national goals with respect to health information and health promotion, preventive health services, and education in the appropriate use of health care. Directs the Secretary to undertake and support activities necessary to achieve such goals. Authorizes the appropriation of specified sums for fiscal years 1977 through 1979 to carry out such purposes. Directs the Secretary to monitor proposed Federal legislation and Federal programs, making recommendations on any changes necessary in the interest of public health. Directs the Secretary to conduct research programs in health information and health promotion, preventive health services, and education in the appropriate use of health care, and to determine the best methods of disseminating information about such area. Directs the Secretary to study environmental, occupational, social, and behavioral factors which affect health. Directs the Secretary to formulate methods of evaluating the costs and effectiveness of activities funded under this title. Directs the Secretary to make a continuing survey of needs, interest, attitudes, knowledge, and behavior of the American public regarding health and health care. Directs the Secretary to conduct and support, by grant or contract, new and innovative programs in health information and health promotion, preventive health services, and education in the appropriate use of health care. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to States and other public and nonprofit private entities for the purposes of demonstration and evaluation programs which provide information respecting the costs and quality of health care or information respecting health insurance policies and prepaid health plans. Directs the Secretary to conduct and support, by grant or contract, such activities as are necessary to make health information and health promotion information available to the consumers of medical care, providers of such care, and schools. Requires the Secretary to submit an annual report to Congress on the status of health concerns reflected by this title, each such report to include a description and evaluation of activities carried out under this title and relevant legislative recommendations. Directs the Secretary to conduct a study of health education services and preventive health services to determine the coverage of such services under public and private health insurance programs. Establishes a committee to provide for the communication and exchange of information necessary to effectively coordinate Federal programs and health activities which relate to health information and health promotion, preventive health services, and education in the appropriate use of health care. Directs the Secretary to establish within the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare an Office of Health Information and Health Promotion to establish a national information clearinghouse to facilitate the exchange of information on health concerns under this title. Authorizes the establishment of a nonprofit corporation to be known as the Center for Health Promotion, such Center to be responsible for advancing health programs under this title. Directs the Center to serve as a forum for the involvement of entities involved in health care and education and to assist in accelerating the incorporation of proven methods of achieving the purposes of this title by establishing a system of technical assistance, training, and consultation. Requires the Center to report annually to Congress on its operation, activities, and financial condition. Authorizes the appropriation of specified sums for the expenses of the Center in fiscal years 1977 through 1979. Title II: Disease Prevention and Control - Disease Prevention and Control Amendments - Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to States and public and nonprofit private entities to assist them in meeting the costs of disease prevention and control programs. Directs the Secretary to give special consideration to programs to increse the immunization rates of any population identified as not having received the generally recognized disease immunizations. Authorizes the appropriation of specified amounts to carry out the purposes of this title in fiscal years 1976 through 1978. Requires the Secretary to submit to the President for submission to Congress an annual report on the effectiveness of all Federal, public, and private activities in preventing and controlling specified diseases. Directs the Secretary to develop a plan under which resources of the Public Health Service and other agencies under the Secretary's jurisdiction could be effectively used to control epidemics of specified diseases and other health emergencies. Permits the Secretary to extend temporary assistance to States or localities in meeting health emergencies. Extends programs to combat venereal disease through fiscal year 1978 and authorize specified sums to carry out such programs. Amends the Lead-Based Paint Poisoning Prevention Act to require federally funded follow-up programs to include measures to eliminate lead-based paint hazards from surfaces in and around residential dwelling units. Directs the Consumer Product Safety Commission to take such steps as are necessary to prohibit the application of lead-based paint to any toy or furniture article. Directs the Commission to determine whether or not a level of lead in paint greater than six one-hundredths of one percent but not in excess of five-tenths of one percent is safe, the definition of "lead-based paint" under such Act to be revised in accordance with the Commission's findings. Authorizes the appropriation of specified sums for fiscal years 1976 through 1978 to carry out the purposes of such Act. Title III: Miscellaneous Amendment - Amends the Public Health Service Act to redefine "State" as, in addition to the several States, the District of Columbia, Guam, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, American Samoa, and the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands.
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1976
Appropriates $7,000,000 out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated as an additional amount for carrying out the home health services provisions of the Health Revenue Sharing and Health Services Act. Appropriates specified sums, out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, for making multipurpose senior center grants under the Older Americans Act of 1965.
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1976
Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, under title XX (Grants to States for Services) of the Social Security Act, to allot social services funds which are unused in one year to States for use in the succeeding fiscal year for the purpose of preventing or reducing inappropriate institutional care by providing for community-based or home-based care, or other forms of less intensive care. Requires that States requesting such funds have approved plans for the provision of such care. Directs the Secretary to pay quarterly to each State 85 percent of the State's expenditures for the provision of services in or through multipurpose senior centers. Directs the Secretary to standardize the eligibility requirements applicable to the provision of assistance, under the individual State programs, to multipurpose senior centers.
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1976
Prohibits any nursing home or skilled nursing facility which is participating in the hospital insurance program of title XVIII (Medicare) or in the medical assistance program of title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act from requiring any patient to turn over to it any social security benefit check to which the patient is entitled after such patient has given 30 days written advance notice of his intention to leave such home or facility.
![Official portrait of Rep. Florio, James J. [D-NJ-1]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/dfda094a48c87dccd97fd47288d44ac3_200.jpg)