United States · United States Congress · 21 February 1974
Broadcast License Renewal Act - Requires the Federal Communications Commission to establish procedures to be followed by licensees of broadcasting stations to ascertain the needs, views, and interests of their viewers. Sets the term of a broadcast station license or renewal, at four years and for any other class of station at five years. Provides that any license granted may upon its expiration be renewed, if the Commission finds that the public interest, convenience, and necessity would be served by the renewal of such license. Requires that in considering any application for renewal of a broadcast license the Commission shall not consider: (1) the ownership interests or official connections of the applicant in other stations or other communications media or other businesses, or (2) the participation of ownership in the management of the station for which such application has been filed, unless the Commission has adopted rules prohibiting such ownership interests or activities or prescribing management structures, as the case may be, and given the renewal applicant a reasonable opportunity to conform with such rules. Directs the Commission to prescribe procedures to encourage licensees of broadcasting stations and persons raising significant issues regarding the operations of such stations to conduct, during the term of the licenses for such stations, good faith negotiations to resolve such issues. Directs the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a study to determine how it might expedite the elimination of those regulations of broadcast licensees required by the Communications Act of 1934 which do not serve the public interest and shall make annual reports of the results of such study (including any recommendations for legislation) to the Committee on Commerce of the Senate and the Committee on Interstate and Foreign Commerce of the House of Representatives. Directs the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a study of the social, economic, political, or other consequences of the ownership of more than one broadcasting station by one person and the ownership by one person of one or more broadcasting stations and one or more newspapers or other communications media.
United States · United States Congress · 19 February 1974
Increases the subsistence allowances for veterans enrolled in vocational rehabilitation programs, educational assistance allowances payalbe to eligible veterans, and special training allowances to the parent or guardian of a veteran engaged in a program of restorative training. Increases the time limitation for completing a program of education subject to such education assistance allowances from eight to ten years after discharge. Requires the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs to make annual cost of living adjustments in the monthly rates of subsistence allowances, educational assistance allowances, and special training allowances payable to eligible veterans and eligible persons under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 6 February 1974
Allows any individual employed on a part-time basis to deduct under the Internal Revenue Code expenses for household and dependent care services necessary for gainful employment. Limits such tax deduction to $200. Defines the term "employed on a part-time basis" as gainful employment for more than 20 but less than 40 hours per week.
United States · United States Congress · 6 February 1974
Shoreline Erosion Control Demonstration Act - Requires the Secretary of the Army, in cooperation with the Secretary of Agriculture, to establish a five year national shoreline erosion control development and demonstration program consisting of operating control devices, both engineered and vegetative, including development of new dredging techniques for the artificial restoration of beaches. Provides that both vegetative and low-cost shorelines erosion control devices would be tested on sites along the Atlantic, Gulf and Pacific coasts and along the Great Lakes. Requires the Secretary of the Army to establish a fifteen member Shoreline Advisory Panel to advise him in carrying out the provisions of this Act. Requires the Secretary to submit annually a program progress report to the Congress. Provides that the Secretary shall submit a comprehensive evaluation at the conclusion of the five year program.
United States · United States Congress · 6 February 1974
Increases the Federal contribution to 90 per cent for the cost of shore restoration and protection projects. Provides that the costs allocated to the restoration and protection of Federal property shall be borne fully by the Federal Government.
United States · United States Congress · 29 January 1974
Public Safety Officers Benefits Act - Provides that in any case in which the Law Enforcement Assistance Administration determines that an eligible public safety officer has died as the direct and proximate result of a personal injury sustained in the performance of duty, leaving a spouse or one or more eligible dependents, the Administration shall pay a gratuity of $50,000. States the order of precedence for the payment of the gratuity to dependents. Excludes the payment of benefits if death was caused intentionally or by intentional misconduct or by an individual who would otherwise be entitled to the death benefits. Authorizes the appropriation in each fiscal year of such sums as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 20 December 1973
Solar Heating and Cooling Demonstration Act - Declares it to be the policy of the United States and the purpose of this Act to provide for the demonstration within a three-year period of the practical use of solar heating technology and to provide for the development and demonstration within a five-year period of the practical use of combined heating and cooling technology. Directs the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration to initiate and carry out a program as provided in this Act for the development and demonstration of solar heating systems for use in residential dwellings and commercial buildings. Provides for the installation of solar heating systems in residential dwellings, to be monitored by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. Provides that such residential dwellings shall be located in a sufficient number of different geographic areas in the United States to assure a realistic and effective demonstration of solar heating and cooling systems involved. Directs the Director of the National Science Foundation to initiate, support and fund basic and applied research activities related to solar energy in support of the objectives of this Act. Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to assure the full dissemination of information with respect to the activities conducted under this Act to Federal, State, and local authorities, the building industry and the public at large. Directs the Secretary to establish and operate a Solar Heating and Cooling Information Data Bank for collecting, reviewing, processing, and disseminating solar heating and cooling information in support of the objectives of this Act. Sets forth reporting requirements for agencies conducting activities under this Act. Provides for adjustment of the maximum dollar amount of any Federally-assisted mortgage loan or the maximum per-unit or other cost of any Federally-constructed housing if such structure is furnished with solar heating or combined solar heating and cooling equipment under the demonstration program established by this Act. Provides that within sixty days after creation of any permanent Federal organization having jurisdiction over the energy research and development functions of the United States, all research and development functions vested in other agencies by this Act, along with related records, documents, personnel, obligations and other items shall be transferred to the new organization. Authorizes the appropriation of up to $50,000,000 to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 20 December 1973
Federal Election Campaign Reform Act - Permits broadcasting stations to eliminate the equal broadcast opportunities requirement with respect to candidates for Federal office. Provides for free broadcast time with respect to legally qualified candidates for Federal elective office (other than the offices of President and Vice President). Requires each station licensee to maintain a record of any political broadcast, with the identification of the person who caused it to be broadcast for a period of two years. Repeals the Campaign Communications Reform Act. Requires additional information required by the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 relating to reports of contributions in excess of $10, relating to detailed accounts, relating to registration of political committees, and relating to reports by political committees and candidates. Provides that every person who makes contributions or expenditures, other than by contribution to a political committee or candidate, in an aggregate amount in excess of $100 within a calendar year shall file with the Federal Election Commission a statement containing the required information. States that each candidate for election of Congress shall file with the Commission a financial disclosure report for the calendar year immediately preceding the year in which he is a candidate. States the requirements relating to campaign advertising. Establishes, as an independent establishment of the executive branch of the Government of the United States, the Federal Election Commission, which shall be composed of the Comptroller General, ex officio, with the right to vote, and six other members appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Provides that the Commission shall have the power: (1) to require, by special or general orders, any person to submit in writing such reports and answers to questions as the Commission may prescribe; (2) to administer oaths; (3) to require by subpoena issued by the Chairman or Vice Chairman the attendance and testimony of witnesses and the production of all documentary evidence relating to the execution of its duties; (4) to order testimony to be taken by deposition and to compel testimony and the production of evidence in these instances; (5) to pay witnesses the same fees and mileage paid in the courts of the United States; and (6) to initiate, prosecute, defend, or appeal any court action in the name of the Commission. Provides for a civil penalty of not more than $10,000 for every violation of this Act. Declares that each candidate shall designate one political committee as his central campaign committee and that no political committee may be designated as the central campaign committee of more than one candidate. States that each candidate shall designate one or more National or State banks as his campaign depositories where a checking account shall be maintained and any contributions received shall be deposited into that account. Provides that a political committee may maintain a petty cash fund out of which it may make expenditures not in excess of $100 to any person in one transaction. Declares that no Senator, Representative, Resident Commissioner, or Delegate shall make any mass mailing of a newsletter under the frank during the sixty days immediately preceding the date on which any election is held in which he is a candidate. Authorizes to be appropriated to the Commission in each fiscal year the sum of $500,000 to be made available in such amounts as the Commission deems appropriate to the States for the purpose of assisting them to comply with their duties as set forth in this Act. Sets forth penalties for violations of this Act. Provides that no expenditure in excess of $1,000 shall be made by or on behalf of any candidate who has received his party's nomination for President or Vice President unless such expenditure has been specifically approved by the chairman or treasurer of that political party's national committee. Permits amounts received by a candidate as contributions that are in excess of any amount necessary to defray his campaign expenses, and any other amounts contributed to an individual for the purpose of supporting his activities as a holder of Federal office, to be used by that individual to defray any ordinary and necessary expenses incurred by him in connection with his duties as a holder of Federal office. Authorizes to be appropriated to the Commission sums not to exceed $5,000,000 for fiscal year ending June 30, 1974, and not to exceed $5,000,000 for each fiscal year thereafter. Declares that no primary election for Federal office may be held before the first day of the eighth calendar month beginning before the date of the general election. Prohibits the disclosure of any information regarding votes cast in any general election for the office of President or Vice President before midnight, eastern standard time, of the day on which the election is held. Provides for limitations on expenditures other than to the Office of President not to exceed: (in a primary or primary runoff campaign for nomination) 10 cents multiplied by the voting age population; (in a general or special election campaign for election to Federal office) 15 cents multiplied by the voting age population, with a candidate for President limited to the amount which a candidate for nomination for election to the office of Senator from that State might expend within the State in connection with his campaign for that nomination. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to certify to the Federal Election Commission and publish in the Federal Register an estimate of the voting age population of each State and congressional district as of the first day of July next preceding the date of certification. Limits individual contributions to $10,000 for an election to the office of President or $5,000 for an election for any other Federal office. Limits cash contributions to $25 in Federal elections.
United States · United States Congress · 19 December 1973
Controlled Substances Administration Act - Establishes a Controlled Substances Administration. States that the Administration shall be headed by a Director who shall be appointed by the President, by and with the consent of the Senate. Transfers to the Director specified functions of other agencies relating to drug abuse prevention and control. Requires the Director to conduct a study to determine the effectiveness of the functions transferred and the need for revision or consolidation of such functions. Authorizes appropriations of such sums as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of the Act for fiscal year 1974 and for each of the next four fiscal years.
United States · United States Congress · 19 December 1973
Provides that in the determination of the annual income of recipients of veterans' pensions and dependency and indemnity compensation the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs shall not reduce the amount of such pension or compensation because of increases in monthly social security benefits under Public law 92-336. (Adds 38 U.S.C. 415(g)(4) 503(d))
United States · United States Congress · 18 December 1973
Emergency Chlorine Allocation Act - Declares that there is a national shortage of chlorine and other chemicals and substances used for safe drinking water and for waste water treatment purposes and that such shortage presents a substancial threat to the public health. Revises the Public Health Service Act by providing that the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, in consultation with the Secretary of Commerce, shall promulgate regulations providing for mandatory allocation of chlorine, activated carbon, lime, ammonia, soda ash, or other chemical or substance used in the treatment of drinking water or waste water, such regulations to only apply to chlorine unless the other chemicals are also found to be in short supply. Authorizes the Administrator to hold such hearings and receive such evidence as he deems necessary to carry out this Act. Authorizes the Administrator to gather such information from and make such inspections of producers and importers of chlorine or other allocated chemicals as are necessary to carry out this Act. Provides penalties for failure to comply with regulations promulgated under this Act. Provides that no provision of this Act shall be deemed to convey to any person subject to the Act immunity from civil or criminal liability, or to create defenses to actions, under the antitrust laws. Sets forth exceptious to the antitrust provisions of this Act. Authorizes the appropriation of such funds as are necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 17 December 1973
Fire Prevention and Control Act - Title I: Establishes within the Department of Commerce a National Bureau of Fire Safety headed by a Director appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Declares the function of the Bureau to be to improve the nation's efforts in fire prevention and control through public education, advanced technology, training and education, improved statistics, and other relevant efforts. Requires the Director to undertake programs in public education for the further development of fire technology. States that the Director shall operate directly or through contracts an integrated, comprehensive national fire data program based on the collection, analysis, publication, and dissemination of fire information related to the prevention, occurrence, control, and results of fires of all types. Establishes, within the Department of Commerce, as part of the Bureau, a United States Fire Academy which shall have the mission of advancing the professional development of fire service personnel, civil defense personnel, and related fire safety personnel. States that the Academy shall be headed by a Superintendant. Sets forth the duties of the Superintendent. Authorizes to be appropriated an amount not to exceed $2,000,000 for fiscal year 1975 to carry out the provisions of this title. Title II: Establishes within the Department of Commerce a Fire Research Center which shall perform and support basic and applied research on all aspects of fire with the aim of providing scientific and technical knowledge applicable to the prevention and reduction of fires. Requires such program to include investigations of (1) the physics and chemistry of combustion processes; (2) the dynamics of flame ignition, flame spread, and flame extinguishment; (3) the composition of combustion products developed by various sources and under various environmental conditions; (4) the unique aspects of fire hazards arising from the transportation and use in industrial and professional practices of combustible gases, fluids, and materials; and (5) design concepts for providing increased fire safety consistent with habitability, comfort, and human impact, in buildings and other structures. Directs the Center to conduct research on: (1) the biological and physiological effects of toxic substances encountered in fires; (2) the trauma, cardiac conditions, and other hazards resulting from exposure to fires; (3) the development of simple, reliable tests for the determination of the cause of death from fires; (4) improved methods of providing first aid to the victims of fires; (5) the psychological and motivational characteristics of persons who engage in arson, and the prediction and cure of such behavior; (6) the conditions of stress encountered by firefighters, their effects, and their alleviation or reduction; and (7) such other biological, physiological, and psychological effects of fire as may have significance for purposes of this Act. Authorizes to be appropriated for purposes of this title an amount not to exceed $3,500,000 for fiscal year 1975. Title III: Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to establish, within the National Institutes of Health, and expanded program of research on burns, treatment of burn injuries, and rehabilitation of victims of fires. Authorizes to be appropriated $2,000,000 for fiscal year 1975 to carry out the provisions of this title. Title IV: Provides that the Secretary and the Comptroller General of the United States, or any of their duly authorized representatives, shall have access to any books, documents, papers, and records of the recipient that are pertinent to its activities under this Act for the purpose of audit or to determine whether a proposed activity is in the public interest.
United States · United States Congress · 14 December 1973
Declares that it is the sense of Congress that the United States Ambassador to the United Nations should introduce in the United Nations General Assembly a resolution calling on the Government of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam to honor the humanitarian obligations of the Paris Agreement signed on January 27, 1973, and the joint communique signed on June 13, 1973, and that the United Nations General Assembly should adopt such resolution.
United States · United States Congress · 11 December 1973
Provides that the tax on the amounts paid for communication services shall not apply to the amount of the State and local taxes paid for such services under the Internal Revenue Code.
United States · United States Congress · 6 December 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 · 3 December 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 · 3 December 1973
Directs the National Aeronautics and Space Administration to develop ground propulsion systems which are energy conserving, have clean emission characteristics, and are capable of being produced in large numbers at a reasonable mass production per unit cost. Requires that such ground propulsion systems must meet or better all air quality standards set by or under the National Emission Standards Act, the Clean Air Act, and the Air Quality Act of 1967, while substantially reducing per mile energy comsumption. Authorizes appropriations to carry out this Act not to exceed $30,000,000 in the aggregate for the fiscal years 1974 through 1977.
United States · United States Congress · 15 November 1973
Commends the President of the United States for his actions in the Middle East, particularly his efforts through the United Nations to create the atmosphere in which the negotiations could take place and his dialogue with the Soviet Union in an effort to reduce tensions.
United States · United States Congress · 13 November 1973
Provides that the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency may, for any period beginning on or after the date of enactment of this section and ending on or before May 15, 1974, 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. Provides that after public notice and opportunity for presentation of views, the Administrator may, for any period beginning after May 15, 1974, and ending not later than June 30, 1977, 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 solely because of the unavailability of types or amounts of fuels. States that a suspension granted under this paragraph shall be granted only for the period during which the person to whom it applies can reasonably be expected to be unable to obtain fuels or an emission reduction system necessary to permit him to comply with the stationary source fuel or emission limitation which it suspends. Requires the Administrator to study, and report to Congress not later than March 31, 1974, with respect to: (1) the present and projected impact on the program under this Act of fuel shortages and of allocation and rationing programs; (2) availability of scrubber technology (including projections respecting the time, cost, and number of units available); (3) projections of air quality impact of fuel shortages and allocations; and (4) evaluation of alternative control strategies for other sulfur emitting sources, including desulfurization of home heating fuels, cost, time frames, and feasibility effectiveness. Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to report to Congress not later than January 3, 1975, on the implementation of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 8 November 1973
Requires that no test ranges or facilities which are required for defense programs of the military services of the United States may be released by the Department of Defense for purposes of oil drilling or exploration until: (1) a determination has been made by the Secretary of Defense that there is not a military requirement for the test range or facility involved; and (2) until full and complete environmental studies have been made, by the Environmental Protection Agency, and approved by the Appropriations and Armed Services Committees of the Congress; or (3) unless such leasing is directed by the President as essential to national defense interests.
United States · United States Congress · 7 November 1973
Authorizes the President to call a White House Conference on the Handicapped within two years of enactment in order to develop recommendations for further research and action in the field of the handicapped, and to further the policies set forth in this joint resolution. Provides that such conference shall be planned and conducted under the direction of the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare with the cooperation and assistance of such other Federal departments and agencies, including the assignment of personnel, as may be appropriate. Require a final report of the White House Conference on the Handicapped to be submitted to the President not later than 120 days following the date on which the conference is called, and the findings and recommendations included therein to be made available immediately to the public. Requires the Secretary, within 90 days after the submission of such report, to transmit to the President and the Congress his recommendations for the administrative action and legislation necessary to implement the recommendations contained in such report. Gives the Secretary administrative powers to carry out this Act. Directs the Secretary to establish an Advisory Committee on the White House Conference on the Handicapped composed of 28 members, of whom not less than 15 shall be handicapped or parents of handicapped persons. Provides that such Advisory Committee shall cease to exist 90 days after the submission of the final report required by this Act. Authorizes to be appropriated $2,000,000 to carry out this joint resolution.
United States · United States Congress · 6 November 1973
Federal Noxious Weed Act - Permits the Secretary of Agriculture to promulgate such quarantines and regulations requiring inspection of products and articles of any character whatsoever as he deems necessary to prevent the dissemination into the United States of any noxious weeds. Prohibits the movement or sale of any noxious weed into or through the United States unless authorized under permit from the Secretary. Allows the Secretary, in order to prevent the dissemination of any noxious weed, to destroy, or otherwise dispose of, any product or article of any character whatsoever which he has reason to believe is infested by or contains any such noxious weed, if there is no less drastic action which would be adequate to prevent the dissemination of noxious weeds into the United States or interstate commerce. Enables the owner of any article destroyed to bring an action against the United States in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia within one year after such destruction. Permits any authorized inspector, without a warrant, to stop any person or means of conveyance moving into or through the United States, and to inspect any noxious weeds and any products and articles of any character whatsoever carried thereby, to determine whether such persons or means of conveyance are moving any noxious weeds contrary to this Act. Allows the entry with a warrant into any premises in the United States for inspections or other actions necessary under this Act. Provides a fine not exceeding $500, or imprisonment not exceeding 1 year or both, for violation of this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to cooperate with the Governments of Canada and Mexico, and with State and Federal agencies to control the spread of any noxious weed. Authorizes appropriations of sums by Congress from time to time as may be necessary to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 6 November 1973
Provides that officers of the uniformed services who retired prior to October 1, 1949, shall be entitled to the same retired pay as those retired after September 30, 1949, but prior to June 1, 1958.
United States · United States Congress · 6 November 1973
Election Campaign Espionage Act - Provides that whoever, being an employee of any candidate or political committee, provides any personal service to any other candidate or any political committee supporting any other candidate, with the intent of interfering with any election activity, shall be fined not more than $10,000 or imprisoned not more than ten years, or both. States that whoever uses any contribution or campaign funds to aid in the commission of any offense against the United States or any State, shall be fined not more than $10,000 or imprisoned not more than ten years, or both. Penalizes the concealment of violations of this Act. (Adds 18 U.S.C. 614)
United States · United States Congress · 31 October 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 · 29 October 1973
Authorizes the President to call a White House Conference on the Handicapped within two years of enactment in order to develop recommendations for further research and action in the field of the handicapped, and to further the policies set forth in this joint resolution. Provides that such conference shall be planned and conducted under the direction of the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare with the cooperation and assistance of such other Federal departments and agencies, including the assignment of personnel, as may be appropriate. Require a final report of the White House Conference on the Handicapped to be submitted to the President not later than 120 days following the date on which the conference is called, and the findings and recommendations included therein to be made available immediately to the public. Requires the Secretary, within 90 days after the submission of such report, to transmit to the President and the Congress his recommendations for the administrative action and legislation necessary to implement the recommendations contained in such report. Gives the Secretary administrative powers to carry out this Act. Directs the Secretary to establish an Advisory Committee on the White House Conference on the Handicapped composed of 28 members, of whom not less than 15 shall be handicapped or parents of handicapped persons. Provides that such Advisory Committee shall cease to exist 90 days after the submission of the final report required by this Act. Authorizes to be appropriated $2,000,000 to carry out this joint resolution.
United States · United States Congress · 18 October 1973
Metric Conversion Act - Establishes a National Metric Conversion Board to implement the change of the United States to the metric system by devising and carrying out a program of encouragement, coordination and public education. Requires the Board to consult with industry, commerce, science, consumers, engineering, education, labor, State and local governments, foreign governments, and such others as are deemed appropriate in carrying out its duties. Requires the Board, within 12 months after the appropriation of funds to carry out this Act, to develop and submit to the Secretary of Commerce, for transmittal to the President and Congress, a plan to convert to the metric system. Provides that such plan will be implemented within 60 days unless disapproved by Congress. Authorizes the Board to hold hearings and enter into contracts. Provides that an executive director shall be responsible for carrying out the Board's duties. Authorizes appropriations necessary to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 18 October 1973
Solar Heating and Cooling Demonstration Act - Declares it to be the policy of the United States and the purpose of this Act to provide for the demonstration within a three-year period of the practical use of solar heating technology. Defines the terms used in this Act. Directs the National Aeronautics and Space Administration to initiate, support and carry out basic and applied research and development in solar heating and cooling technologies. Provides for the installation of solar heating systems in residential dwellings under the monitoring of the Secretary of Commerce, acting through the National Bureau of Standards and in consultation with the Secretaries of Housing and Urban Development and Defense. Provides that such residential dwellings shall be located in a sufficient number of different geographic areas (not less than three) in the United States to assure a realistic and effective demonstration of solar heating and cooling systems involved. Directs the Director of the National Science Foundation to initiate, support and fund basic and applied research activities related to solar energy in support of the objectives of this Act. Authorizes the appropriation of up to $50,000,000 to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 4 October 1973
Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to determine for each fiscal year the amount of taxes attributable to each State which are paid into the Highway Trust Fund during such fiscal year and to make such adjustments in the apportionments authorized as may be necessary to insure that no State shall be apportioned an aggregate amount for any fiscal year which is less than 80 percent of the amount of taxes attributable to such State and paid into the Highway Trust Fund during the preceding fiscal year.
United States · United States Congress · 3 October 1973
Makes it the sense of the Congress that the President should take immediate and determined steps to: (1) impress upon the Soviet Government the grave concern of the American people with the intimidation of those within the Soviet Union who do not adhere to prevailing ideology; (2) call upon the Soviet Government to permit the free expression of ideas and free emigration by all its citizens in accordance with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; and (3) use the medium of current negotiations with the Soviet Union as well as informal contacts with Soviet officials in an effort to secure an end to repression of dissent.
United States · United States Congress · 20 September 1973
States that the increases in the monthly benefits and lump sum death payments under title II (Old-Age, Survivors', and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act shall be increased by 7 percent beginning January 1974 (presently increased by the percentage by which the Consumer Price Index for June 1973 exceeds that for June 1972, beginning April 1974.)
United States · United States Congress · 19 September 1973
Psychotropic Substances Act - Requires the Secretary of State, upon notification from the Secretary General of the United Nations that the World Health Organization has been given information pursuant to the Convention on Psychotropic Substances, that may justify adding a substance to the schedules of the Convention, transferring a substance to another schedule, or deleting it from schedules, to notify the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, who shall prepare for submission to the World Health Organization evaluations regarding proposed actions. Directs the Secretary, upon such notification to confer with the Attorney General and determine if existing legal controls meet the requirements of the schedule specified in such notification. Allows the Secretary to propose more stringent controls, even if requirements are being met, to propose scheduling of substances to meet requirements of the Convention, or to follow procedures to remain in at least temporary noncompliance with such requirements. Requires the Attorney General to assure that minimal United States obligations to the Convention are met if procedures of noncompliance will take more than a time specified by the Convention. Requires the Attorney General to comply with the scheduling requirements if a review of such requirements, requested under the noncompliance procedures, by the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations results in support of such requirements. Requires manufacturers of psychotropic substances subject to the Convention to report to the Attorney General periodically. States that no international agreements on psychotropic substances shall be construed to: (1) require specific punishments for psychotropic substances offenses or to limit education and rehabilitation as alternatives to conviction or punishment; (2) limit protection of confidentiality of patient records of research subjects; (3) modify the authority of practitioners and registered establishments to use and dispense narcotic controlled substances; or (4) prevent drug price communications to consumers.
United States · United States Congress · 12 September 1973
Emergency Medical Services Systems Act - Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to make grants to and enter into contracts with eligible entities for projects which include both studying the feasibility of establishing and operating an emergency medical services system, and planning the establishment and operation of such a system. Requires that the reports of the results of any study and planning project assisted under this Act shall be submitted to the Secretary and the Interagency Committee on Emergency Medical Services. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to and enter into contracts with eligible entities for the establishment and initial operation of emergency medical services systems. Sets forth the standards for such grants and contracts. States that, in considering applications which demonstrate exceptional need for financial assistance, the Secretary shall give special consideration to applications submitted for emergency medical services systems for rural areas. Directs the Secretary to make grants to and enter into contracts with eligible entities for projects for the expansion and improvement of emergency medical services systems, including the acquisition of equipment and facilities, the modernization of facilities, and other projects to expand and improve such systems. States that the amount of any grant or contract under this section for a project shall not exceed 50 percent of the cost of that project. Stipulates that the Secretary may make grants to public or private nonprofit entities, and enter into contracts with private entities and individuals, for the support of research in emergency medical techniques, methods, devices, and delivery. States that no grant may be made or contract entered into under this section for amounts in excess of $35,000, unless the application therefore has been recommended for approval by an appropriate peer review panel designated or established by the Secretary. Sets forth general provisions with respect to grants and contracts authorized under this Act. Establishes specified requirements for emergency medical services systems. Authorizes to be appropriated specified amounts for grants and contracts made pursuant to this Act for the fiscal years 1974, 1975, and 1976. Directs the Secretary to establish an Interagency Committee on Emergency Medical Services to evaluate the adequacy and technical soundness of all Federal programs and activities which relate to emergency medical services. Directs the Committee to make recommendations to the Secretary respecting the administration of contracts under this Act. Requires the Secretary to prepare and submit annually to the Congress a report on the administration of this Act. Directs the Secretary to make grants to and enter into contracts with schools of medicine, dentistry, osteopathy, and nursing and training centers for allied health professions, and other appropriate educational entities to assist in meeting the cost of training programs in the techniques and methods of providing emergency medical services. Authorizes to be appropriated $10,000,000 for the fiscal year 1974 for the purpose of making payments pursuant to grants and contracts under this section.
United States · United States Congress · 6 September 1973
Establishes the Big Cypress National Preserve in the State of Florida. Authorizes to be appropriated an amount not to exceed $116,000,000 for the acquisition of lands and interests in lands, and an amount not to exceed $900,000 for development.
United States · United States Congress · 3 August 1973
Uniformed Services Retirement Pay Equalization Act - Provides that the retired pay of each retired officer of the Navy or the Marine Corps shall be computed on the basis of rates of pay provided by law at the time of his retirement or subsequently for officers on the active list. Permits retired members of the uniformed service, who were retired by reason of physical disability and who are entitled to retired or retainer pay computed under the Career Compensation Act of 1949, to elect within the one-year period following the effective date of this Act, to receive disability retirement pay under this Act in lieu of that retired or retainer pay to which they are otherwise entitled. (Adds 10 U.S.C. 6149)
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1973
Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to conduct a study with respect to the feasibility of establishing the Bartram Trail as a national scenic trail.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1973
Expresses the sense of Congress that it shall be the policy of the United States that the Government of the United States shall cease forthwith all consideration of aid, trade, diplomatic recognition, or any other form of communication, travel, or accomodation with the Democratic Republic of North Vietnam or the Viet Cong until such time as agreements relating to facilitating the location and care of graves of the dead, exhumation, and repatriation of the remains have been complied with to the fullest extent.
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 1973
States that on or after the date of enactment of this provision no television broadcast licensee, network television broadcast organization, or cable television system shall perform or otherwise carry out a contract, arrangement, or other understanding, express or implied, under which such station, network, or system is prevented from broadcasting or carrying the home games of any professional football, baseball, basketball, or hockey teams when tickets for admission to such games are no longer available for purchase by the general public forty-eight hours or more before the scheduled beginning time of such games.
United States · United States Congress · 25 July 1973
Multiprotection of Employee Retirement Income and Trust Act - Declares it to be the policy of this Act to protect interstate commerce and the interests of participants in employee benefit plans and their beneficiaries, by requiring the disclosure and reporting to participants and beneficiaries of financial and other information with respect thereto, by establishing standards of fiduciary conduct, responsibility, and obligation upon all persons who exercise any powers of control, management, or dispositions with respect to employee benefit funds or have authority or responsibility to do so, or have authority or responsibility in the administration of employee benefit plans, and by providing for appropriate remedies, sanctions, and ready access to the Federal courts. Title I: Fiduciary Responsibility and Disclosure - Provides that this title shall apply to any employee benefit plan if it is established or maintained by any employer engaged in commerce or in any industry or activity affecting commerce, or both. Provides that the administrator of an employee benefit plan shall cause to be published in accordance with this Act to each participant or beneficiary covered thereunder a description of the plan and an annual financial report. States that such description shall be published within 270 days after such plan is established and shall be written in a manner calculated to be understood by the average plan participant. Provides that an annual report shall be published with respect to any employee benefit plan to which this title applies. Sets forth the information that shall be contained in such report. Provides that the administrator of any employee benefit plan subject to this Act shall file with the Secretary of Labor a copy of the plan description and each annual report. States that the Secretary may reject any such filing after notice, hearing, and determination by the Secretary that such filing is incomplete for the purpose of this title. Sets forth criminal penalties for intentional violations of this title. Provides that civil actions may be brought under this title by a participant or beneficiary: (1) for personal liability to such participant or beneficiary for failure to provide information required under this Act; or (2) to recover benefits due him under the terms of his plan or to clarify his rights to future benefits. Authorizes such actions by: (1) the Secretary, or by a participant, beneficiary or fiduciary, for appropriate relief under the fudiciary responsibility provisions of this Act; or (2) by the Secretary to enjoin any act or practice which appears to him to violate any provision of this title. Provides that the contents of the descriptions and regular annual reports filed with the Secretary pursuant to this title shall be public information. Provides for the bonding of persons who have fiduciary responsibilities under this title and of persons who handle funds or other property of an employee benefit plan. Sets forth the fiduciary responsibilities of the administrators of plans covered by this Act. Sets forth provisions governing the distribution of net assets upon the termination of a pension plan. Establishes an Advisory Council on Employee Welfare and Pension Benefit Plans to advise the Secretary with respect to the carrying out of his functions under this title. Title II: Vesting - Provides that this title shall apply to any employee pension benefit plan if it is established or maintained by an employer engaged in commerce or in any industry or activity affecting or by such employer together with any employee organization representing employees engaged in commerce or in any industry or activity affecting commerce; or if such plan is established or maintained by any employer or by any employer together with any employee organization and if, in the course of its activities, such plan, directly or indirectly, uses any means or instruments of transportation or communication in interstate commerce or the mails. Excludes from the coverage of this title any employee pension benefit plan if: it is administered by the Federal Government or by an agency or instrumentality of the Federal Government: it is established for the benefit of self-employed individual or owner-employees; it covers not more than 25 participants; it is established and maintained outside the United States primarily for the benefit of persons who are not citizens of the United States and the situs of the fund is maintained outside the United States; or such plan is unfunded and established primarily to provide deferred compensation for a select group of management employees. Specifies that no pension plan subject to this title may provide as a condition of eligibility a period of service longer than 1 year or age higher than 25 years. Establishes certain nonforfeitable rights on the part of employees to receive benefits in accordance with specified categories and requirements. Prohibits any plan from providing for forfeiture of accrued employee beenfits. Stipulates that in computing the period of service under a plan, the employee's entire service with the contributing employer must be considered, except in specified instances. Title III: Funding - Provides that this title applies to the same employee benefit pension plans as does title II and excludes from coverage those plans excluded under title II. States that the minimum contribution to any pension plan for each plan year beginning after the effective date of this title shall be equal to the excess of: (1) the sum of the minimum standard contributions for each plan year beginning after the effective date of this title, over (2) the total of the amounts contributed to or under the plan for each of the preceding plan years beginning after the effective date of this title. Requires the administrator of the plan to file an annual statement with the Secretary containing the following information: (1) the numbers of years the plan has been in effect; (2) the date and amount of the contribution made by the plan for the plan year for which the report is filed and contributions for prior plan years not previously reported; and (3) the amount of the minimum contribution, the normal costs, accrued liabilities, present value of accrued nonforfeitable benefits, value of assets, an identification of other benefits, and a statement of the other facts and actuarial assumptions used in the calculation of the minimum contribution under this title. Provides that whenever the required payment cannot be made by the employer or the other contributing parties, the Secretary may waive part or all of the minimum contributions for that fiscal year, and prescribe an additional period of not more than 5 years for the amortization of the funding deficiency occurring in that fiscal year. Prohibits any merger with another pension plan unless a qualified actuary: (1) determines that each participant in each plan would receive a termination benefit equal to that which he would have received before the merger; and (2) includes such determination in the next year's funding status report. Title IV: Registration, Enforcement, and Miscellaneous Provisions - Requires the registration with the Secretary of plans covered under this Act. Empowers the Secretary to petition any U.S. district court having jurisdiction to require compliance with the registration provisions of this title. Sets forth provisions concerning civil enforcement of the vesting and funding titles of this Act. Establishes a Variation Appeal Board to hear and determine appeals from decisions denying variations under titles II and III. Authorizes the Secretary to undertake research studies on: (1) the effects of this Act upon the provisions and costs of pension plans; (2) the role of private pensions in meeting the economic security needs of the nation; and (3) the operation of public and private pension plans. Provides for cooperation and mutual assistance by other Federal agencies and departments. States that it shall be unlawful for any person to discharge, fire, or discriminate against a participant or beneficiary for exercising any right extended under this Act. Stipulates that titles II and III of this Act supersede any and all State and local laws relating to the vesting, eligibility, and funding responsibilities of persons acting on behalf of employee pension benefit plans.
United States · United States Congress · 25 July 1973
Authorizes the President to call a White House Conference on the Handicapped within two years of enactment in order to develop recommendations for further research and action in the field of the handicapped, and to further the policies set forth in this joint resolution. Provides that such conference shall be planned and conducted under the direction of the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare with the cooperation and assistance of such other Federal departments and agencies, including the assignment of personnel, as may be appropriate. Requires a final report of the White House Conference on the Handicapped to be submitted to the President not later than 120 days following the date on which the conference is called, and the findings and recommendations included therein to be made available immediately to the public. Requires the Secretary , within 90 days after the submission of such report, to transmit to the President and the Congress his recommendations for the administrative action and legislation necessary to implement the recommendations contained in such report. Gives the Secretary administrative powers to carry out this Act. Directs the Secretary to establish an Advisorty Committee on the White House Conference on the Handicapped composed of 28 members, of whom not less than 10 shall be handicapped or parents of handicapped persons. Provides that such Advisory Committee shall cease to exist 90 days after the submission of the final report required by this Act. Authorizes to be appropriated $2,000,000 to carry out this joint resolution.
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 1973
National Mobile Home and Recreational Vehicle Safety Act - Directs the Secretary of Transportation and Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to establish by order appropriate nonoperational Federal mobile home and recreational vehicle safety standards. Provides that, in prescribing standards under this Act, the Secretary of Transportation and the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development shall: (1) consider relevant available mobile home safety data; (2) consult with such State or interstate agencies (including legislative committees) as he deems appropriate; (3) consider whether any such proposed standard is reasonable, practicable, and appropriate for the particular type of mobile home or recreational vehicle for which it is prescribed; (4) consider whether any such standard will result in a substantial increase in the retail price of mobile homes or recreational vehicles; and (5) consider the extent to which any such standard will contribute to carrying out the purpose of this title. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to issue initial Federal recreational vehicle and mobile home safety standards upon the expiration of a two hundred and seventy day period which begins on the date of enactment of this Act. Provides that the Secretary shall issue new and revised Federal recreational vehicle and mobile home safety standards under this title upon the expiration of the five hundred and forty-day period which begins on the date of enactment of this Act. Establishes both a National Mobile Home Safety Advisory Council, and a National Recreational Vehicle Safety Advisory Council, a majority of each of which shall be representatives of the general public, including representatives of State and local governments, and the remainder shall include mobile home or recreational vehicle manufacturers, dealers, representatives of insurers, and nationally recognized standards-producing organizations. Provides that the Secretary shall consult with the appropriate Advisory Council before establishing or revoking any mobile home or recreational vehicle safety standard pursuant to this title. Directs the Secretary to conduct research, testing, development and training necessary to carry out the purposes of this title. Provides that no person shall: (1) manufacture for sale, sell, offer for sale, or introduce or deliver for introduction into interstate commerce, or import into the United States, any mobile home or recreational vehicle manufactured on or after the date any applicable Federal mobile home or recreational vehicle safety standard takes effect under this title unless it is in conformity with such standard; (2) fail or refuse access to or copying of records, or fail to make reports or provide information, or fail or refuse to permit entry or inspection, as required under this Act; (3) fail to issue a certificate required by this Act, or issure a certificate to the effect that a mobile home or recreational vehicle conforms to all applicable Federal mobile home or recreational vehicle safety standards, unless such person in the exercise of due care has reason to know that such certificate is false or misleading in a material respect; or (4) fail to furnish notification of any defect as required by this Act. Provides for civil penalties for violations of this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to conduct such inspection and investigation as may be necessary to enforce Federal mobile home and recreational vehicles safety standards established under this Act. Provides that every manufacturer, distributor, and dealer of mobile homes and recreational vehicles shall maintain such records, make such reports, and provide such performance and technical data to the Secretary as may be required to carry out the purposes of this Act. Establishes a National Mobile Home and Recreational Vehicle Safety Institute in the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Provides that such Institute shall be headed by a Director appointed by the Secretary. Authorizes such Institute to : (1) develop, establish, and forward to the Secretary of Transportation recommended mobile home and recreational vehicle nonoperational safety standards; (2) conduct research, testing, development, and training as authorized by this title; (3) prepare the annual report to the Congress required by this title; and (4) perform all other functions of the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development under this Act. Requires the Secretary to submit to the President an annual report on the activities of the Department of Transportation under this Title. States that nothing in this Act shall prevent any State agency or court from asserting or continuing jurisdiction under State law over any aspect of mobile home or recreational vehicle safety with respect to which no standards have been established pursuant to this title. Provides that any State may assume responsibility for enforcement of any Federal standards which have been established under this Act upon approval by the Secretary under specified conditions. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to States which have been delegated enforcement responsibility to assist them in identifying their needs and responsibilities in the area of safety standards enforcement or in developing enforcement plans. Provides that the Federal share of each such grant shall not exceed 90percent of the total cost. Authorizes Federal participation under the Home Owner's Loan Act of 1933 in any loan made for the purchase of a recreational vehicle or mobile home which meets or exceeds the safety standards established under this Act. Provides for Federal participation in loans made to veterans purchasing mobile homes and recreational vehicles which meet such standards.
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 1973
Authorizes Florida Indian River grapefruit marketing orders under the Agricultural Marketing Agreement Act of 1937, which provides for an assessment against handlers for the purpose of financing a marketing promotion program. Provides for a credit against such assessment in the case of handlers who expend directly for marketing promotion. (Amends 7 U.S.C. 608c(6) (I))
United States · United States Congress · 19 July 1973
Provides that a student who has received a loan under the Higher Education Act of 1965 shall be entitled to have paid to the holder of the loan a portion of the interest on such loan if the loan is for $1500 or less and his adjusted family income is less than $15,000 at the time of execution of the note or written agreement evidencing such loan. States that where a student would be entitled to have a portion of the interest paid on his loan under the preceding sentence, but for the fact that his need for the loan as determined under clause (2) of the next sentence exceeds $1,500, or that his adjusted family income at the time of execution of the note of other written agreement evidencing such loan exceeds $15,000, then such student shall be entitled to have such payments so made if, but only if, the eligible institution at which he has been accepted for enrollment or, in the case of a student who is attending such an institution, at which he is in good standing (as determined by such institution)- (1) has determined he is in need of a loan to attend such institution, (2) has determined the amount of such need by subtracting from the estimated cost of attendance at such institution the expected family contribution with respect to such student plus any other resources or student aid reasonably available to such student, and in the case of a student whose adjusted family income at such time was less than $15,000, that his need as determined under this section exceeds $1,500, and (3) has provided the lender with a statement evidencing the determination made under this section and recommending a loan in the amount of such need. (Amends 20 U.S.C. 1078 (1))
United States · United States Congress · 19 July 1973
Establishes in the Executive Office of the President a Council on Energy Policy to be composed of three members appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate. Provides that the Council shall: (1) serve as the principal advisor to the President; (2) review all legislative recommendations dealing with energy matters submitted to the Congress by Federal agencies; (3) make recommendations to the President and Congress for resolving conflicting policies of Federal agencies; (4) recommend policies to Federal and State agencies with respect to power emergencies; and (5) develop a long-range plan for energy utilization in the United States. Directs all Federal agencies to include in every proposal for legislation having a significant effect on energy availability or use a detailed statement on whether such proposal is consistent with the long-range plan formulated by the Council on Energy Policy. Provides that the President shall cause to be prepared and submitted to the Congress on or before July 1, 1973, and annually thereafter, by the Council on Energy Policy in cooperation with the Council on Environmental Quality, an Energy Report which shall include: (1) an estimate of the energy needs of the United States for the next ten years; (2) an estimate of domestic and foreign energy supplies of the United States; (3) current trends in the utilization of energy in the United States and the effects thereof; and (4) recommendations for the development and application of technologies and practices required to achieve the purposes of this Act. Authorizes appropriations of $300,000 for fiscal year 1973, $750,000 for fiscal year 1974, and $1,000,000 for each fiscal year thereafter to carry out the provisions of this Act.
![Official portrait of Rep. Frey, Lou, Jr. [R-FL-9]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/34a1ff0acafa6074fa010e167525bb74_200.jpg)