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United States · Official source
1,053 records where Rep. Goldwater, Barry, Jr. [R-CA-20] is listed as a sponsor, author, or other actor. Search with topics and years
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1978
Amends the Board for International Broadcasting Act of 1973 to prohibit assistance to Radio Free Europe or Radio Liberty if any Communist country is permitted to use such broadcast facilities.
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1978
Authorizes and requests the President to designate the third week of May 1978, and 1979, as "National Architectural Barrier Awareness Week."
United States · United States Congress · 15 February 1978
Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to invalidate agreements preventing the broadcast of a professional sports game, by means of television, at the same time and in the same area in which the game is to be played if all tickets to such game have been sold 72 hours before gametime. Repeals this amendment effective February 1, 1981.
United States · United States Congress · 15 February 1978
Expresses the sense of the House that the national motto, "In God We Trust," shall continue to be engraved and printed on the currency of the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 9 February 1978
Authorizes air carriers holding a certificate to engage in foreign air transportation to carry domestic traffic between points in the United States on flights operated in foreign air transportation. Stipulates that such authority shall be limited to one round trip flight per day in each city-pair market unless otherwise authorized by the Civil Aeronautics Board.
United States · United States Congress · 8 February 1978
Solar Photovoltaic Energy Research, Development, and Demonstration Act - Requires the Secretary of Energy to develop research, development, and demonstration programs concerning the use of solar photovoltaic energy systems. Authorizes the Secretary to provide up to 75 percent of the purchase and installation costs of selected systems used for research purposes. Requires the Secretary to formulate definitive performance criteria concerning solar photovoltaic systems and to develop a system of certification for conforming systems. Directs the Secretary to consult with relevant Federal agencies concerning the use of solar photovoltaic systems in Federal facilities. Requires the Secretary to set up a development and demonstration program of prototype photovoltaic systems at the Solar Energy Research Institute in Golden, Colorado. Directs the Secretary to establish a solar energy data bank at the Golden facility. Requires relevant Federal officials to ensure that small business concerns are granted realistic and adequate opportunities to participate, to the maximum extent possible, in the programs under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1978
Authorizes appropriations in specified amounts out of the Airport and Airway Trust Fund for specified aviation research, development, and demonstration projects for fiscal year 1979.
United States · United States Congress · 6 February 1978
Designates May 3, 1978, as "Sun Day."
United States · United States Congress · 6 December 1977
Hungarian Crown of Saint Stephen Protection Act - Requires that the Hungarian Crown of Saint Stephen and other relics of Hungarian royalty to be kept in the United States, unless Congress specifically provides otherwise.
United States · United States Congress · 11 November 1977
Omnibus Rights to Privacy Act - Title I: Federal Information Practices Board - Federal Information and Privacy Board Act - Establishes the Federal Information Practices Board to conduct continuing oversight of the effect of private and governmental data collection activities on the rights and privileges of individuals. Directs the Board to investigate compliance with Federal laws affecting information practices including laws pertaining to: (1) privacy; (2) freedom of information; (3) fair credit reporting and billing; and (4) government in the sunshine. Title II: Privacy Act Amendments - Privacy Act Amendments - Requires, under the Privacy Act of 1974, Federal agencies maintaining records which identify persons to whom they pertain to disclose to such persons the actual uses and disclosures made of such records when access to such records is granted to such person under that Act. Specifies limitations on disclosures of such records to third parties, on collection, and on maintenance of such information. Prohibits Federal action that would foster the development of a standard universal personnel identifier based on social security numbers or otherwise or of a central population register unless specifically provided by statute. Title III: Personal Records - Protection of Personal Records Act - Sets forth procedures to be used for disclosure of consumer reports or credit, financial, toll, or insurance records by a third-party recordkeeper to a Federal officer, employee, or agent, provided such information is obtained pursuant to the Fair Credit Reporting Act. Includes among the means through which information may be disclosed (1) written authorization by the person to whom the information relates, (2) administrative subpena, (3) search warrant, (4) judicial subpena, and (5) grand jury subpena. Specifies prerequisite findings and other conditions for the issuance of administrative, judicial, and grand jury subpenas. Prohibits obtaining papers or other personal effects which contain intimate information, including the business records of a sole proprietor, from an individual or third-party recordkeeper by means of administrative subpena, judicial subpena, or search warrant. Title IV: Financial Assistance Records - Privacy of Public Assistance and Social Services Records Act - Requires each State, as a condition for the receipt of Federal moneys for public assistance or social services programs, to provide for the privacy of records used in the administering of such programs. Subjects such State privacy laws to the certification of the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare as meeting the principles specified in this Act. Requires, in accordance with such principles, the provision of access to information by the subject of such information, the correction and accuracy of such information and the establishment of appropriate remedies and penalties for the enforcement of such statute. Title V: Medical Records - Privacy of Medical Information Act - Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to require each medical-care institution participating in the Medicaid or Medicare program to implement procedures which meet specific privacy protection requirements for the maintenance and disclosure of personal medical information. Requires medical-care institutions to afford an individual (or his designated representative) a reasonable opportunity to inspect his personal medical information file. Permits the parent or guardian of a minor child to inspect the file of such minor, except that portion of the file which relates to: (1) venereal diseases of the minor; (2) family planning services (including abortions) sought and received by such minor; (3) alcohol or drug abuse services; and (4) any other medical services sought by the minor without the prior approval of his parent or guardian. Requires that the individual seeking disclosure of his personal medical information file sign and date a written authorization which permits a medical-care institution to disclose specific information to specified persons for a specified period of time and requires further that such institution maintain a record of all such disclosures. Makes it the duty of medical-care institutions to maintain accurate, relevant, timely, and complete files and to grant to individuals the right to request changes in their files. Requires such institutions either to make the requested changes and notify the individual of the change or to supply the individual with the reasons why such changes were not made and with an opportunity to file a statement disagreeing with the institution's refusal. Prohibits an institution from refusing to make a requested change if such change would make an individual's file accurate, relevant, timely, or complete. Requires medical-care institutions to disclose to individuals with personal medical information on file the uses to which such files may be put without their prior authorization. Generally limits disclosure to those portions of such files which are necessary to accomplish the purposes for which disclosure was originally authorized. Permits disclosure of personal medical information files without prior authorization: (1) for consultation; (2) for compelling circumstances involving an individual's health and safety; (3) for audits, evaluations, and biomedical and epidemiological research; (4) to comply with public reporting statutes; (5) to supply admission and health status information; and (6) to comply with a lawful judicial or administrative subpena. Title VI: Fair Credit Reporting Act Amendments - Fair Credit Reporting Act Privacy Amendments - Amends the Fair Credit Reporting Act to make specified restrictions on disclosures of information respecting a consumer by credit reporting agencies applicable to independent authorization services. Defines such services as any persons who regularly engage in whole or in part in the practice of providing consumer credit information or other credit-related information on consumers to third persons, or guarantee the payment to payor banks of checks signed by consumers. Requires credit card issuers to maintain reasonable procedures to prevent disclosures of inaccurate information. Prohibits any credit reporting agency from making any consumer report respecting any consumer which contains information identifying any person to whom a previous consumer report respecting such consumer has been furnished. Requires a credit grantor to disclose, upon request, specified information to a consumer who is adversely affected by a credit decision. Sets forth procedures to be followed when a consumer disputes the completeness or accuracy of any item of information contained in such consumer's file. Requires each commercial reporting service to maintain reasonable procedures designed to avoid the disclosure of inaccurate information to third persons and to assure that information maintained in its files is accurate. Sets standards to be followed by depository institutions with respect to the gathering of any information concerning a consumer, including disclosure to the consumer of all types of information which may be collected and all types of institutions which may collect such information. Requires a depository institution to inform the consumer whenever it makes an adverse decision respecting a depository service involving such consumer. Establishes safeguards for holders of insurance policies against errors of the insurance institution and violation of the privacy of such holders. Directs the Federal Trade Commission to promulgate regulations requiring specified institutions to make disclosures to policy holders. Specifies which information shall be disclosed. Makes provisions for the enforcement of this Title. Title VII: Tax Records - Confidentiality of Tax Records Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to restrict or prohibit the disclosure of taxpayer return information in matters pertaining to: prospective jurors; State tax enforcement; investigations of prospective Federal appointees; child support enforcement efforts; and Federal enforcement of nontax laws. Title VIII: Educational Privacy Rights - Family Educational Rights and Privacy Amendments - Amends the General Education Provisions Act to require educational agencies or institutions to adopt a written policy providing for protection of the privacy of personal information, including guidelines regarding: (1) access to student records; (2) the right to challenge such records and include clarifying material; (3) types of information that may be released with or without consent; (4) student and parental participation in formulating such privacy policies; and (5) enforcement.
United States · United States Congress · 4 November 1977
Amends the Consumer Product Safety Act to include electrical wiring systems as consumer products for purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 3 November 1977
Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to require each medical- care institution participating in the Medicaid or Medicare program to implement procedures which meet specific privacy protection requirements for the maintenance and disclosure of personal medical information. Requires medical-care institutions to afford an individual (or his designated representative) a reasonable opportunity to inspect his personal medical information file. Permits the parent or guardian of a minor child to inspect the file of such minor, except that portion of the file which relates to: (1) venereal diseases of the minor, (2) family planning services (including abortions) sought and received by such minor; (3) alcohol or drug abuse services; and (4) any other medical services sought by the minor without the prior approval of his parent or guardian. Requires that the individual seeking disclosure of his personal medical information file sign and date a written authorization which permits a medical-care institution to disclose specific information to specified persons for a specified period of time and requires further that such institution maintain a record of all such disclosures. Makes it the duty of medical-care institutions to maintain accurate, relevant, timely, and complete files and to grant to individuals the right to request changes in their files. Requires such institutions either to make the requested changes and notify the individual of the change or to supply the individual with the reasons why such changes were not made and with an opportunity to file a statement disagreeing with the institution's refusal. Prohibits an institution from refusing to make a requested change if such change would make an individual's file accurate, relevant, timely, or complete. Requires medical-care institutions to disclose to individuals with personal medical information on file the uses to which such files may be put without their prior authorization. Generally limits disclosure to those portions of such files which are necessary to accomplish the purposes for which disclosure was originally authorized. Permits disclosure of personal medical information files without prior authorization: (1) for consultation; (2) for compelling circumstances involving an individual's health and safety; (3) for audits, evaluations, and biomedical and epidemiological research; (4) to comply with public reporting statutes; (5) to supply admission and health status information; and (6) to comply with a lawful judicial or administrative subpena.
United States · United States Congress · 3 November 1977
Federal Information and Privacy Board Act--Establishes the Federal Information Practice Board to conduct continuing oversight of the effect of private and governmental data collection activities on the rights and privileges of individuals. Directs the Board to investigate compliance with Federal laws affecting information practices, including laws pertaining to: (1) privacy; (2) freedom of information; (3) fair credit reporting and billing; and (4) government in the sunshine.
United States · United States Congress · 3 November 1977
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Amendments - Amends the General Education Provisions Act to require educational agencies or institutions to adopt a written policy providing for protection of the privacy of personal information, including guidelines regarding: (1) access to student records; (2) the right to challenge such records and include clarifying material; (3) kinds of information that may be released with or without consent; (4) student and parental participation in formulating such privacy policies; and (5) enforcement.
United States · United States Congress · 2 November 1977
Requires, upon application by the insured, waiver of the payment of premiums for National Service Life Insurance during any time after which the insured has attained the age of 70 and has paid premiums on the insurance for not less than 25 years.
United States · United States Congress · 2 November 1977
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow up to a $200 income tax deduction for one half of the expenses incurred for the installation and purchase of a teletypewriter for use by individuals whose sight, hearing, or speech is impaired.
United States · United States Congress · 2 November 1977
Requires, upon application by the insured, waiver of the payment of premiums for National Service Life Insurance during any time after which the insured has attained the age of 70 and has paid premiums on the insurance for not less than 25 years.
United States · United States Congress · 13 October 1977
Requires, upon application by the insured, waiver of the payment of premiums for National Service Life Insurance during any time after which the insured has attained the age of 70 and has paid premiums on the insurance for not less than 25 years.
United States · United States Congress · 12 October 1977
Declares the sense of the Congress that the President and the Secretary of State should take all necessary steps to bring the Baltic States question before the United Nations and to urge the United Nations to request the Soviet Union to withdraw all non-native troops, agents, colonists, and controls from the Republics of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia, and to return all Baltic exiles from Siberia and from prisons and labor camps in the Soviet Union. Requires the Secretary of State to do his utmost to bring the matter of the Baltic States to the attention of all nations by means of special radio programs and publications. Declares that the United States should not agree to the recognition of the Soviet Union's annexation of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. Directs the President to take steps to provide that all maps of Europe show the Republics of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia as independent states. Calls for a return of self-determination to the peoples of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia through free elections conducted under the auspices of the United Nations.
United States · United States Congress · 11 October 1977
Tuition Tax Relief Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow individuals alternative, limited income tax credits or deductions for the tuition paid for the primary, secondary or higher education of the taxpayer, his spouse, or his dependents.
United States · United States Congress · 6 October 1977
Authorizes air carriers holding a certificate to engage in foreign air transportation to carry domestic traffic between points in the United States on flights operated in foreign air transportation. Stipulates that such authority shall be limited to one round trip flight per day in each city-pair market unless otherwise authorized by the Civil Aeronautics Board.
United States · United States Congress · 4 October 1977
Expands Federal government liability for the acts of its officers who routinely perform investigative, inspection, or law enforcement functions to include certain intentional and ministerial acts. States that such liability shall be exclusive and preclude any remedy against officers individually. Directs the Attorney General to pay the attorney fees incurred by such an officer in connection with a criminal investigation into such officer's official actions.
United States · United States Congress · 20 September 1977
Expresses the displeasure of the House of Representatives toward any policy of the Internal Revenue Service which changes through administrative interpretation long-standing applications of the Internal revenue laws. Expresses the sense of the House that the Internal Revenue Service refrain from changing its policy with respect to taxation of benefits given to employees, without submission of any proposed changes to Congress.
United States · United States Congress · 13 September 1977
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow up to a $200 income tax deduction for one half of the expenses incurred for the installation and purchase of a teletypewriter for use by individuals whose sight, hearing, or speech is impaired.
United States · United States Congress · 9 September 1977
Expresses the sense of the Congress that any right to, title to, or interest in the property of the United States Government agencies in the Panama Canal Zone or any real property and improvements thereon located in the zone should not be conveyed, relinquished, or otherwise disposed of to any foreign government without specific authorization of such conveyance, relinquishment, or other disposition by any Act of Congress.
United States · United States Congress · 5 August 1977
General Aviation Airport Safety Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to make grants to airport operators to cover 100 percent of the costs of projects to: (1) mark runways and taxiways or to establish a taxiway guidance system; or (2) to purchase and install visual slope indicators. Authorizes appropriations in specified amounts out of the Airport and Airway Trust Fund for fiscal years 1978, 1979, and 1980 to carry out such grant program.
United States · United States Congress · 5 August 1977
Tax Reduction Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to lower individual and corporate income tax rates.
United States · United States Congress · 5 August 1977
Prohibits rules promulgated by any Federal agency (except an emergency rule which must become immediately effective to prevent serious injury or the substantial frustration of legislative policies or intent) from becoming effective until such proposed rules have been submitted to Congress and a 60-day period has lapsed thereafter. Prevents such rules from becoming effective if disapproved by either House of Congress within such 60-day period. Permits disapproved of emergency rules. Prohibits the submission to Congress of any rule identical to one which has been disapproved unless submitted pursuant to new legislative authority which has been enacted affecting the agency's powers with respect to the subject matter of such rule. Renders agency rules dealing with emergency or routine matters or which will have an insignificant impact effective without publication of advance/notice of proposed rule making proceedings in the Federal Register as is currently required. Renders any rule granting an exemption to another rule or which is exempt from public notice and comment requirements effective immediately.
United States · United States Congress · 5 August 1977
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow up to a $200 income tax deduction for one half of the expenses incurred for the installation and purchase of a teletypewriter for use by individuals whose sight, hearing, or speech is impaired.
United States · United States Congress · 5 August 1977
Sets forth the rule for the consideration of H.R. 8125 (Special prosecutor).
United States · United States Congress · 5 August 1977
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the Federal Communications Commission should maximize local primary radio broadcast service in any proceeding respecting the provision of class I-A and I-B radio service. Prohibits the operation of a standard broadcast station with power in excess of 50,000 watts.
United States · United States Congress · 4 August 1977
Directs the Secretary of the Interior to establish the Channel Islands and Santa Monica Mountains National Park and Seashore. Places various administrative responsibilities with the Secretary. Abolishes the Channel Islands National Monument. Directs the Secretary, in cooperation with the State of California, the Secretary of Transportation, and local agencies to plan a coordinated public and private transportation system to and within the Park. Directs the Secretary to make and submit a study as to the design, construction, and operation of a public scenic transportation system with the Park area and to implement the construction and operation of such system unless either House of Congress passes a resolution against such construction. Establishes the Channel Islands and Santa Monica Mountains National Park and Seashore Advisory Commission.
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1977
Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to pay a specified sum to certain individuals in full settlement of such individuals' claims against the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1977
Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to define the term "public charge" as an alien who receives financial support or medical treatment from any Federal, State, or local program designed to support needy individuals. Prohibits the admission of any immigrant unless a United States citizen has agreed in writing to sponsor such immigrant and to reimburse the Federal, State, or local government for financial support or medical treatment provided to the immigrant during the five year period after entering the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 29 July 1977
Surface Transportation Assistance Act - Title I: Federal Aid Highway Act - Amends the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956 to revise and extend the authorization for appropriations for the Interstate Highway System through fiscal year 1992. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to apportion such amounts in a specified manner for fiscal year 1980. Authorizes appropriations through fiscal year 1982 for specified highway programs. Stipulates that the Federal share of railroad-highway crossing demonstration projects under the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1973 shall be 95 percent of the cost of such a project. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to make grants to States for traffic control signalization projects designed to conserve motor fuel and decrease traffic congestion. Sets forth the Federal Share of such programs and the method by which such amounts are to be apportioned. Increases the Federal share for specified highway programs. Directs the Secretary to allocate funds made available for pavement marking demonstration programs in a manner deemed by the Secretary most appropriate to expedite the completion of pavement markings on all highways. Authorizes the reapportionment of funds not used by a State for the Interstate System to another State which has obligated all of its apportionment. Sets forth restrictions on the Secretary's authority to withdraw approval for the construction of routes on the Interstate System. Amends the Appalachian Regional Development Act of 1965 to increase the Federal share for construction projects on the Appalachian development highway system. Authorizes the Secretary to carry out access control demonstration projects designed to demonstrate whether preserving the capacity of existing highways to move traffic safely by acquiring and controlling the right of access to such highways is a cost effective alternative to the construction of new highways. Authorizes appropriations for such purpose through fiscal year 1982 out of the Highway Trust Fund. Title II: Highway Safety Act - Authorizes appropriations through fiscal year 1982 for specified highway safety programs. Amends the Highway Safety Act of 1973 to authorize appropriations through fiscal year 1982 for projects to eliminate hazards relating to rail-highway crossings. Title III: Urban Mass Transportation Act Amendments - Amends the Urban Mass Transportation Act of 1964 to authorize appropriations through 1982 for specified projects under such Act. Authorizes general appropriations to carry out the provisions of such Act through fiscal year 1988.
United States · United States Congress · 27 July 1977
Deaf Services Act - Title I: Installation of Telecommunications Devices in Federal Agencies and in Other Locations - Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, after consultation with specified organizations with special knowledge of the problems of deaf persons, to select at least five Federal agencies with which deaf persons have the greatest need for communication and have installed in each such agency and its regional offices a device which permits two-way communication of textual messages in alphanumeric form by telephone lines. Directs the Secretary to select an additional 100 locations for installation of such devices which shall be available to deaf people for their use in communicating with the agencies selected under this Act and with Members of Congress who choose to install such a device under Title III of this Act. Requires the Secretary to prescribe the rates to be charged to the users of such telecommunications devices. Stipulates that such charges may not exceed the cost that would have been incurred had such users been nondeaf persons seeking the same assistance by use of a telephone. Directs the Secretary to disseminate information about the availability of such devices as widely as possible to local organizations of the deaf. Directs that at least one employee be available during normal working hours at each location where such devices are located for use by deaf persons to assist such persons in the use of such devices. Title II: Grants to States - Authorizes the Secretary to make a grant to any State or local government for installing telecommunications devices for the deaf in government agencies and other locations in a program to be identical to the Federal program established in Title I of this Act. Sets the level of such grants at 75 percent of the cost of installing and operating such devices. Authorizes annual continuing grants for such purposes to be made after assurances have been received that the requirements of this Act have been and will continue to be met during the ensuing year. Requires the Secretary to seek the cooperation of the Administrator of General Services in having transferred to States any telecommunications devices for the deaf categorized as Federal surplus property. Title III: Installation of Telecommunications Devices in Offices of Members of Congress and in the Capitol - Requires that any Member of Congress making a written request for a telecommunications device for the deaf be provided with one. Directs the Architect of the Capitol to install at the central switchboard in the United States Capitol a telecommunications device for the deaf and requires at least one employee trained in the use of such device to be available during normal working hours to provide assistance to deaf persons. Title IV: Report to Congress - Requires the Secretary to report to Congress within two years after the installation of the first telecommunications device under this Act describing the effectiveness of the programs established by this Act and making recommendations on the continuation and expansion of such programs.
United States · United States Congress · 27 July 1977
National Energy Supply and Conservation Act - Establishes the following national energy goals for 1985: (1) reduction of annual growth rate to 2.5 percent, with eventual reduction to two percent by 1995; (2) reduction of oil imports to less than five million barrels per day through increases in domestic production of oil, natural gas, and synthetic fuels by 2.0, 0.75, and 1.0 million barrels per day, respectively; (3) reduction of gasoline consumption of ten percent from 1977 levels; (4) increased energy efficiency in heating and cooling systems in 90 percent of homes, schools, and hospitals; (5) increased coal production of at least 400 million tons over 1976 levels; and (6) use of solar energy in more than 2.5 million homes. Title I: Pricing, Regulatory, and Other Nontax Provisions - Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to direct the Federal Energy Administrator to establish procedures for the submission, approval, and implementation of residential energy conservation plans by State utility regulatory authorities. Establishes criteria governing programs to be carried out by public utilities as part of such energy conservation plans. Authorizes the Administrator to implement and enforce a Federal plan in the event of inadequate State action. Amends the Energy Conservation in Existing Buildings Act of 1976 to authorize assistance under the Federal Energy Administration weatherization grant program to families with incomes of up to 125 percent of the poverty level. Directs the Administrator to develop regulations designed to include use of optimum cost-effective energy conservation measures in such program. Increases the appropriations authorized for such program to $130,000,000 for fiscal year 1978 and $200,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1979 and 1980. Amends the Housing Act of 1949 to direct the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to establish a weatherization grant program designed to achieve energy conservation objectives. Amends the Federal National Mortgage Association Charter Act to direct the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to order the Federal National Mortgage Association to provide financial assistance for the purchase of energy conserving improvements for low and moderate income dwellings. Amends the National Housing Act to authorize the Secretary to insure loans for such energy conservation improvements. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to direct the Federal Energy Administrator to establish a program of grants and technical assistance to States and localities for energy-conserving measures in buildings of local governmental units. Authorizes the appropriation of $7,500,000 for each of fiscal year 1978 and 1979 for preliminary energy audits for such purposes and $25,000,000 for each of such fiscal years for technical assistance. Amends the National Housing Act and the Housing Act of 1949 to require promotion of the use of energy saving techniques through minimum property standards for newly constructed residential housing. Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to study the feasibility of requiring all residential dwelling units to meet energy efficiency standards. Amends the Energy Conservation Standards for New Buildings Act of 1976 to authorize the appropriation of an additional $10,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1978 and 1979 for grants to States and localities under such Act. Directs the Federal Energy Administrator, the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, the Secretary of Agriculture, and the Administrator of the Community Services Administration to conduct a joint study of the weatherization activities undertaken after the enactment of this Act. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to direct the Federal Energy Administrator to establish energy efficiency standards for specified household appliances. Stipulates that such standards shall reflect the maximum improvement in energy efficiency which is technologically and economically feasible. Authorizes additional appropriations to the Administrator for fiscal year 1977 to carry out such functions. Amends the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act to require disclosure of additional information relating to tax liability based on automobile fuel economy. Authorizes the Federal Trade Commission to prescribe rules requiring disclosure of such tax information in television advertisements. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to direct the Federal Energy Administrator to establish targets for specified industries for increased use of energy-saving recovered materials by 1987. Requires major corporations in the affected industries to file reports on progress toward achieving such targets. Authorizes the Federal Energy Administrator to make grants to States for projects to assist schools and health care facilities under approved energy conservation plans. Establishes guidelines and criteria governing the submission of such plans by State Governors to the Administrator for approval. Establishes criteria governing the allotment of Federal funds to States for such purposes. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1978, 1979, and 1980 for such grants. Natural Gas Act Amendments - Amends the Natural Gas Act to terminate Federal Power Commission authority to regulate sales of new natural gas in interstate commerce. Stipulates that prices for offshore sales of new natural gas shall not exceed the ceiling price for sales of new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands. Stipulates that prices paid for natural gas in transactions between a natural gas company and its affiliates shall not exceed prices paid in comparable sales by persons not affiliated with any natural gas company. Amends the Emergency Natural Gas Act of 1977 to extend various emergency authorities under such Act through 1979. Establishes procedures for the establishment of ceiling prices for new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands through April 20, 1982. Authorizes the Commission to grant exemptions to price ceilings within high-cost production areas. Establishes procedures for adjustments to price ceilings established pursuant to this Act. Directs the Commission to prohibit the curtailment of adequate supplies of natural gas for essential agricultural purposes. Establishes procedures governing the allocation of increased costs of natural gas to pipeline companies amongst various user classes. Stipulates that such amendments to the Natural Gas Act shall not take effect until April 30, 1978. Prescribes national minimum standards for State-regulated electric utilities with respect to rates and pollution control costs. Requires that utility rate schedules reflect actual costs of service. Prohibits increases in rates by utilities without prior approval following evidentiary hearings. Requires utilities to offer alternative load management techniques to reduce maximum kilowatt demand. Directs the Federal Power Commission to consider imposing restrictions on the use of bulk or master meters in buildings. Requires disclosure of proposed and existing rate schedules by utilities to consumers. Authorizes consumer intervention in utility rate proceedings. Establishes enforcement and judicial review procedures for utility regulatory provisions of this Act. Amends the Federal Power Act to authorize the Federal Power Commission to provide pooling, wheeling, and other additional services in connection with the transmission of power. Directs the Commission to require utilities to report anticipated shortages and to prescribe rules prohibiting discrimination against cogenerators in the sale and purchase of electric energy. Prescribes procedures for consideration of proposed changes in electric utility rate schedules by the Commission. Amends the Energy Conservation and Production Act to authorize the Federal Energy Administrator to make grants to State utility regulatory commissions for the following purposes: (1) to increase the quantity and quality of State regulatory staff; (2) to establish programs to meet Federal consumer representation requirements; and (3) to demonstrate innovative rate structures. Authorizes the appropriation of $40,000,000 in any fiscal year for grants to improve staffing. Authorizes the appropriations of $5,000,000 for grants for consumer representation, and $5,000,000 for grants for rate structure innovation. Amends the Federal Power Act to establish an Office of Public Counsel in the Federal Power Commission for the purpose of adequate representation of consumer interests before the Commission. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1978 through 1981 for such Office. Authorizes the Office to pay reasonable fees to certain participants in evidentiary hearings, not to exceed $2,000,000 for all such persons in any fiscal year. Prohibits new electric powerplants and other major fuel-burning installations from using natural gas or petroleum as a primary energy source. Authorizes the Federal Energy Administrator to prohibit existing facilities from using such products in accordance with prescribed criteria. Directs the Administrator to grant exemptions from such requirements for specified reasons. Authorizes the appropriation of $11,500,000 to the Administrator for fiscal year 1978 to carry out such coal conversion authority. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to monitor the emission of powerplants and major fuel-burning installations required to convert to coal and other fuels under this Act. Authorizes $2,000,000 for fiscal year 1978 for such study. Directs the Federal Energy Administrator to study the socioeconomic impacts of expanded coal production resulting from this Act. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to authorize additional appropriations to the President to carry out Federal energy conservation programs established under the Act. Directs the Federal Energy Administrator to establish a program to demonstrate solar heating and cooling technology in Federal buildings. Establishes criteria governing the submission of proposals by the Administrator. Authorizes the appropriation of $100,000,000 through fiscal year 1980 for such program. Directs the Administrator to establish procedures governing the use of life cycle cost methods for evaluating energy requirements and alternatives for Federal buildings. Directs the Administrator to establish energy performance targets for existing buildings. Requires energy audits and retrofitting of existing Federal buildings to achieve compliance with such guidelines. Amends the Emergency Petroleum Allocation Act of 1973 to direct the President to establish ceiling prices for first sales of domestically-produced new crude oil based on weighted averages of prior sales prices for foreign-produced crude oil. Directs the President to establish price ceilings for sales of domestically-produced old crude oil at stipulated levels. Stipulates that such Presidential authority to regulate crude oil prices shall become discretionary 20 months after the enactment of this amendment, without regard to other restrictions contained in such Act. Stipulates that authority to establish ceiling prices for new crude oil shall extend beyond the September 30, 1981 termination date of the Act. Directs the President to submit annual reports to the Congress on the savings in energy use achieved under each of the programs contained in this Title. Title II: Tax Provisions - Energy Tax Act - Allows a nonrefundable income tax credit for a portion of the expenses incurred by an individual for the installation of solar energy and wind equipment, insulation, and other energy savings components during taxable years 1977 through 1985, in a pre- existing dwelling unit. Limits the credits taken by an individual for each dwelling by specific amounts for different types of expenditures. Imposes an additional excise tax on automobiles to penalize vehicles with poor fuel efficiency. Establishes an initial tax scale for the 1979 model year, ranging from $553 on automobiles with less than 13 miles per gallon (mpg) fuel economy to no tax on automobiles with 15 mpg or better. Increases this tax over six years to a final scale for 1985 and later model years ranging from $3,856 on cars with less than 12.5 mpg fuel economy, to no tax on cars achieving 23.5 mpg or better. Provides that transfers received under this "Gas Guzzler Tax" are to be paid into a new Treasury trust fund (the Public Debt Retirement Trust Fund) and applied towards the retirement of the public debt. Postpones the scheduled rate reductions for the excise taxes on gasoline and other motor fuels from 1979 to 1985. Increases the motorboat fuel tax by two cents a gallon. Provides that such taxes will no longer be paid into the Land and Water Trust Fund after 1978, replacing the former 1980 cutoff date. Repeals the excise tax on motor bus bodies and chassis. Refunds excise taxes paid by producers, manufacturers, and importers on buses sold to intermediate dealers, but not yet sold to the ultimate purchaser, where corresponding refunds are made to the dealers and on buses sold to ultimate purchasers after April 20, 1977 and before the first date after this enactment. Repeals the excise tax on bus parts and accessories. Repeals the excise tax on tires, tubes and tread rubber used on buses used predominantly in transporting students and school employees, or on scheduled, common carrier, local, or intercity routes. Refunds the excise taxes paid on gasoline, other motor fuels, and lubricating oil used in such buses. Allows individuals an income tax credit for the first $300 in expenses incurred for the acquisition of any new electric motor vehicle, designed for non-rail transportation on public streets, after April 20, 1977 and before 1983. Imposes a crude oil equalization tax on domestically produced crude oil and liquid natural gas on the initial vendor for an amount gradually equalling the cost of imported oil. Terminates this tax September 30, 1981. Allows the President, subject to the disapproval of either House of Congress, to suspend increases in such tax for up to one year where the President determines it would have a serious effect on the United States economy when combined with new price increases for imported oil. Refunds up to 50 percent of the taxes paid by first sellers of crude oil for investments in new energy production. Directs the Secretary of Energy to report to Congress within 90 days of this enactment on the competitive viability of small and independent refiners, the effects of this tax on them, and remedial legislation the Secretary deems appropriate. Excludes refunds and taxes received from the initial purchaser from the vendor's gross income for income tax purposes. Rebates receipts on this tax attributable to domestically refined distillate fuel oil, as determined by the Secretary of Energy, to retailers where they have sold and delivered the oil into the tank of a school, hospital, church or residential structure, and reduces the purchaser's price by an equivalent amount. Provides an increase in the earned income credit and a rate decrease in the lower individual income tax brackets for tax years beginning in 1978. Provides for the payment of crude oil tax payments into a Crude Oil Equalization Taxes Trust Fund to be managed by the Secretary of the Treasury and to be disbursed or invested in United States obligations, and to States for the development of mass transit systems. Establishes an excise tax on the business use of oil and gas. Provides different tax rates for uses of oil (including all petroleum and petroleum fuel products except natural gas and gasoline) according to three "tiers" of usage, the highest tier tax rate being provided electric energy producers with the lowest rate applied against uses in internal combustion engines. Exempts a large number of uses from the tax (generally applying to residential, transportation, petrochemical, retail, and non-manufacturing activities, as well as uses where substitute fuels are not feasible or are precluded by Federal or State pollution regulations). Allows each taxpayer an exempt amount of 50,000 barrels of oil (or its BTU equivalent) for application in taxable business uses. Provides for the reclassification of uses by the Secretary of the Treasury, in consultation with the appropriate Federal agencies, where a lower tax classification is consistent with the policy to encourage conversion from, or conservation of, oil and gas, or where a specific facility is otherwise granted an exemption under this Act on its use of petroleum fuels. Applies different tax rates for two tiers of natural gas usages, (internal combustion and utility uses) the rates for non-utility/energy producers uses gradually filling the "price gap" in the user's geographic area between natural gas and more expensive petroleum, but not exceeding the price for BTU equivalent residual fuel oil. Provides a ten percent reduction in the taxes due on natural gas acquired under interruptible contracts. Defines the tiers of natural gas uses and exempt uses of natural gas in the same manner as for business uses of oil, lumping natural gas and oil together for purposes of computing the user's exempt amount. Allows the President to suspend this tax, subject to the disapproval of either House of Congress, for up to one year. Allows taxpayers to elect a nonrefundable credit against the tax on business use of oil and gas for new depreciable property, acquired before 1991, which uses alternative fuels, or is used for transporting or producing alternative fuels, or is supplementary pollution control property otherwise required by law. Allows a carryover of the tax credit to the extent it exceeds current liability. Allows a carryover to 1981 of tax liability for 1978 and 1980. Requires that the election for such credit be made before or on the taxpayer's filing deadline for the first taxable year ending after 1978, or 1982 in the case of a regulated public utility. Prescribes special administrative provisions and definitions for property eligible for this credit. Allows a taxpayer to elect a regular investment tax credit for this credit. Allows a taxpayer to elect a regular investment tax credit for this property to the extent that it qualifies for the same, and to the extent that the taxpayer's current liability for the business use tax (minus carryovers) is exceeded by the allowable business use tax credit. Provides an additional business investment tax credit of ten percent for the period April 20, 1977 through 1982 for property which is not qualified for the regular investment credit but which is alternative energy equipment, recycling equipment, or is otherwise qualified under the definitions of this Act, or under regulations prescribed by the Secretary of the Treasury, in consultation with the Secretary of Energy, to cover energy efficient property. Denies the investment tax credit for air conditioning and heating units, and boilers and combustors fueled by petroleum or petroleum products (including natural gas) where coal is not prohibited by Federal or State pollution regulations. Limits the depreciation deduction of petroleum, petroleum product, or natural gas fueled boilers placed in service after June 30, 1977, to the straight line method. Allows the straight line depreciation deduction for boilers in use before April 21, 1977, to be taken against a line "drawn" to any early retirement dates established by the taxpayer for the boilers to the satisfaction of the Secretary of the Treasury. Makes the Tax Reduction and Simplification Act's temporary reduction in the minimum tax preference for intangible drilling costs a permanent reduction. Allows the deduction of intangible drilling expenses for geothermal wells to the same extent and manner as drilling expenses for gas and oil wells. Allows a ten percent depletion deduction for geothermal deposits, provided that it does not exceed the property's adjusted basis. Extends the excise tax exemption for lubricating oil to cover oils used in producing rerefined lubricating oil. Directs the President to make annual reports to Congress on the tax, energy and other relevant effects of this Title's provisions. Establishes congressional procedures for disapproval, by either House, of Presidential suspensions of the energy excise taxes. Provides administrative provisions for the collection, determination and disbursement of the taxes, rebates, credits, and deductions established under this Title.
United States · United States Congress · 22 July 1977
National Energy Supply and Conservation Act - Establishes the following national energy goals for 1985: (1) reduction of annual growth rate to 2.5 percent, with eventual reduction to two percent by 1995; (2) reduction of oil imports to less than five million barrels per day through increases in domestic production of oil, natural gas, and synthetic fuels by 2.0, 0.75, and 1.0 million barrels per day, respectively; (3) reduction of gasoline consumption of ten percent from 1977 levels; (4) increased energy efficiency in heating and cooling systems in 90 percent of homes, schools, and hospitals; (5) increased coal production of at least 400 million tons over 1976 levels; and (6) use of solar energy in more than 2.5 million homes. Title I: Pricing, Regulatory, and Other Nontax Provisions - Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to direct the Federal Energy Administrator to establish procedures for the submission, approval, and implementation of residential energy conservation plans by State utility regulatory authorities. Establishes criteria governing programs to be carried out by public utilities as part of such energy conservation plans. Authorizes the Administrator to implement and enforce a Federal plan in the event of inadequate State action. Amends the Energy Conservation in Existing Buildings Act of 1976 to authorize assistance under the Federal Energy Administration weatherization grant program to families with incomes of up to 125 percent of the poverty level. Directs the Administrator to develop regulations designed to include use of optimum cost-effective energy conservation measures in such program. Increases the appropriations authorized for such program to $130,000,000 for fiscal year 1978 and $200,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1979 and 1980. Amends the Housing Act of 1949 to direct the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to establish a weatherization grant program designed to achieve energy conservation objectives. Amends the Federal National Mortgage Association Charter Act to direct the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to order the Federal National Mortgage Association to provide financial assistance for the purchase of energy conserving improvements for low and moderate income dwellings. Amends the National Housing Act to authorize the Secretary to insure loans for such energy conservation improvements. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to direct the Federal Energy Administrator to establish a program of grants and technical assistance to States and localities for energy-conserving measures in buildings of local governmental units. Authorizes the appropriations of $7,500,000 for each of fiscal years 1978 and 1979 for preliminary energy audits for such purposes and $25,000,000 for each of such fiscal years for technical assistance. Amends the National Housing Act and the Housing Act of 1949 to require promotion of the use of energy saving techniques through minimum property standards for newly constructed residential housing. Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to study the feasibility of requiring all residential dwelling units to meet energy efficiency standards. Amends the Energy Conservation Standards for New Buildings Act of 1976 to authorize the appropriation of an additional $10,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1978 and 1979 for grants to States and localities under such Act. Directs the Federal Energy Administrator, the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, the Secretary of Agriculture, and the Administrator of the Community Services Administration to conduct a joint study of the weatherization activities undertaken after the enactment of this Act. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to direct the Federal Energy Administrator to establish energy efficiency standards for specified household appliances. Stipulates that such standards shall reflect the maximum improvement in energy efficiency which is technologically and economically feasible. Authorizes additional appropriations to the Administrator for fiscal year 1977 to carry out such functions. Amends the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act to require disclosure of additional information relating to tax liability based on automobile fuel economy. Authorizes the Federal Trade Commission to prescribe rules requiring disclosure of such tax information in television advertisements. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to direct the Federal Energy Administrator to establish targets for specified industries for increased use of energy-saving recovered materials by 1987. Requires major corporations in the affected industries to file reports on progress toward achieving such targets. Authorizes the Federal Energy Administrator to make grants to States for projects to assist schools and health care facilities under approved energy conservation plans. Establishes guidelines and criteria governing the submission of such plans by State Governors to the Administrator for approval. Establishes criteria governing the allotment of Federal funds to States for such purposes. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1978, 1979, and 1980 for such grants. Natural Gas Act Amendments - Amends the Natural Gas Act to terminate Federal Power Commission authority to regulate sales of new natural gas in interstate commerce. Stipulates that prices for offshore sales of new natural gas shall not exceed the ceiling price for sales of new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands. Stipulates that prices paid for natural gas in transactions between a natural gas company and its affiliates shall not exceed prices paid in comparable sales by persons not affiliated with any natural gas company. Amends the Emergency Natural Gas Act of 1977 to extend various emergency authorities under such Act through 1979. Establishes procedures for the establishment of ceiling prices for new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands through April 20, 1982. Authorizes the Commission to grant exemptions to price ceilings within high-cost production areas. Establishes procedures for adjustments to price ceilings established pursuant to this Act. Directs the Commission to prohibit the curtailment of adequate supplies of natural gas for essential agricultural purposes. Establishes procedures governing the allocation of increased costs of natural gas to pipeline companies amongst various user classes. Stipulates that such amendments to the Natural Gas Act shall not take effect until April 30, 1978. Prescribes national minimum standards for State-regulated electric utilities with respect to rates and pollution control costs. Requires that utility rate schedules reflect actual costs of service. Prohibits increases in rates by utilities without prior approval following evidentiary hearings. Requires utilities to offer alternative load management techniques to reduce maximum kilowatt demand. Directs the Federal Power Commission to consider imposing restrictions on the use of bulk or master meters in buildings. Requires disclosure of proposed and existing rate schedules by utilities to consumers. Authorizes consumer intervention in utility rate proceedings. Establishes enforcement and judicial review procedures for utility regulatory provisions of this Act. Amends the Federal Power Act to authorize the Federal Power Commission to provide pooling, wheeling, and other additional services in connection with the transmission of power. Directs the Commission to require utilities to report anticipated shortages and to prescribe rules prohibiting discrimination against cogenerators in the sale and purchase of electric energy. Prescribes procedures for consideration of proposed changes in electric utility rate schedules by the Commission. Amends the Energy Conservation and Production Act to authorize the Federal Energy Administrator to make grants to State utility regulatory commissions for the following purposes: (1) to increase the quantity and quality of State regulatory staff; (2) to establish programs to meet Federal consumer representation requirements; and (3) to demonstrate innovative rate structures. Authorizes the appropriation of $40,000,000 in any fiscal year for grants to improve staffing. Authorizes the appropriations of $5,000,000 for grants for consumer representation, and $5,000,000 for grants for rate structure innovation. Amends the Federal Power Act to establish an Office of Public Counsel in the Federal Power Commission for the purpose of adequate representation of consumer interests before the Commission. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1978 through 1981 for such Office. Authorizes the Office to pay reasonable fees to certain participants in evidentiary hearings, not to exceed $2,000,000 for all such persons in any fiscal year. Prohibits new electric powerplants and other major fuel-burning installations from using natural gas or petroleum as a primary energy source. Authorizes the Federal Energy Administrator to prohibit existing facilities from using such products in accordance with prescribed criteria. Directs the Administrator to grant exemptions from such requirements for specified reasons. Authorizes the appropriation of $11,500,000 to the Administrator for fiscal year 1978 to carry out such coal conversion authority. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to monitor the emission of powerplants and major fuel-burning installations required to convert to coal and other fuels under this Act. Authorizes $2,000,000 for fiscal year 1978 for such study. Directs the Federal Energy Administrator to study the socioeconomic impacts of expanded coal production resulting from this Act. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to authorize additional appropriations to the President to carry out Federal energy conservation programs established under the Act. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to establish a van pooling program for officers and employees of the Federal Government. Directs the Federal Energy Administrator to establish a program to demonstrate solar heating and cooling technology in Federal buildings. Establishes criteria governing the submission of proposals by the Administrator. Authorizes the appropriation of $100,000,000 through fiscal year 1980 for such program. Directs the Administrator to establish procedures governing the use of life cycle cost methods for evaluating energy requirements and alternatives for Federal buildings. Directs the Administrator to establish energy performance targets for existing buildings. Requires energy audits and retrofitting of existing Federal buildings to achieve compliance with such guidelines. Amends the Emergency Petroleum Allocation Act of 1973 to direct the President to establish ceiling prices for first sales of domestically-produced new crude oil based on weighted averages of prior sales for domestically-produced crude oil which is exempt from regulation. Federal Photovoltaic Utilization Act - Establishes a photovaltaic energy commercialization program for the accelerated procurement of photovoltaic solar electric systems in new and existing Federal facilities, primarily for use by the Department of Defense. Authorizes the Federal Energy Administrator to make contracts for the acquisition of such photovoltaic systems. Directs the Administrator, together with the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration, to jointly establish a photovoltaic systems evaluation and purchase program designed to insure that such systems reflect the most advanced technology. Establishes an advisory committee to assist in the establishment and conduct of the program. Authorizes the appropriation of $39,000,000 for photovoltaic system acquisition for fiscal years 1978 through 1981. Directs the President to submit annual reports to the Congress on the savings in energy use achieved under each of the programs contained in this Title. Title II: Tax Provisions - Energy Tax Act - Allows a nonrefundable income tax credit for a portion of the expenses incurred by an individual for the installation of solar energy and wind equipment, insulation, and other energy savings components during taxable years 1977 through 1985, in a pre-existing dwelling unit. Limits the credits taken by an individual for each dwelling by specific amounts for different types of expenditures. Imposes an additional excise tax on automobiles to penalize vehicles with poorer fuel efficiency. Establishes an initial tax scale for the 1979 model year, ranging from $553 on automobiles with less than 13 miles per gallon (mpg) fuel economy to no tax on automobiles with 15 mpg or better. Increases this tax over six years to a final scale for 1985 and later model years ranging from $3,856 on cars with less than 12.5 mpg fuel economy, to no tax on cars achieving 23.5 mpg or better. Provides that transfers received under this "Gas Guzzler Tax" are to be paid into a new Treasury trust fund (the Public Debt Retirement Trust Fund) and applied towards the retirement of the public debt. Postpones the scheduled rate reductions for the excise taxes on gasoline and other motor fuels from 1979 to 1985. Increases the motorboat fuel tax by two cents a gallon. Provides that such taxes will no longer be paid into the Land and Water Trust Fund after 1978, replacing the former 1980 cutoff date. Repeals the excise tax on motor bus bodies and chassis. Refunds excise taxes paid by producers, manufacturers, and importers on buses sold to intermediate dealers, but not yet sold to the ultimate purchaser, where corresponding refunds are made to the dealers and on buses sold to ultimate purchasers after April 20, 1977 and before the first date after this enactment. Repeals the excise tax on bus parts and accessories. Repeals the excise tax on tires, tubes and tread rubber used on buses used predominantly in transporting students and school employees, or on scheduled, common carrier, local, or intercity routes. Refunds the excise taxes paid on gasoline, other motor fuels, and lubricating oil used in such buses. Allows individuals an income tax credit for the first $300 in expenses incurred for the acquisition of any new electric motor vehicle, designed for non-rail transportation on public streets, after April 20, 1977 and before 1983. Imposes a crude oil equalization tax on domestically produced crude oil and liquid natural gas on the initial vendor for an amount gradually equalling the cost of imported oil. Terminates this tax September 30, 1981. Allows the President, subject to the disapproval of either House of Congress, to suspend increases in such tax for up to one year where the President determines it would have a serious effect on the United States economy when combined with new price increases for imported oil. Refunds up to 50 percent of the taxes paid by first sellers of crude oil for investments in new energy production. Directs the Secretary of Energy to report to Congress within 90 days of this enactment on the competitive viability of small and independent refiners, the effects of this tax on them, and remedial legislation the Secretary deems appropriate. Excludes refunds and taxes received from the initial purchaser from the vendor's gross income for income tax purposes. Rebates receipts on this tax attributable to domestically refined distillate fuel oil, as determined by the Secretary of Energy, to retailers where they have sold and delivered the oil into the tank of a school, hospital, church or residential structure, and reduces the purchaser's price by an equivalent amount. Provides an increase in the earned income credit and a rate decrease in the lower individual income tax brackets for tax years beginning in 1978. Provides for the payment of crude oil tax payments into a Crude Oil Equalization Taxes Trust Fund to be managed by the Secretary of the Treasury and to be disbursed or invested in United States obligations, and to States for the development of mass transit systems. Establishes an excise tax on the business use of oil and gas. Provides different tax rates for uses of oil (including all petroleum and petroleum fuel products except natural gas and gasoline) according to three "tiers" of usage, the highest tier tax rate being provided electric energy producers with the lowest rate applied against uses in internal combustion engines. Exempts a large number of uses from the tax (generally applying to residential, transportation, petrochemical, retail, and non-manufacturing activities, as well as uses where substitute fuels are not feasible or are precluded by Federal or State pollution regulations). Allows each taxpayer an exempt amount of 50,000 barrels of oil (or its BTU equivalent) for application in taxable business uses. Provides for the reclassification of uses by the Secretary of the Treasury, in consultation with the appropriate Federal agencies, where a lower tax classification is consistent with the policy to encourage conversion from, or conservation of, oil and gas, or where a specific facility is otherwise granted an exemption under this Act on its use of petroleum fuels. Applies different tax rates for two tiers of natural gas usages, (internal combustion and utility uses) the rates for non-utility/energy producers uses gradually filling the "price gap" in the user's geographic area between natural gas and more expensive petroleum, but not exceeding the price for BTU equivalent residual fuel oil. Provides a ten percent reduction in the taxes due on natural gas acquired under interruptible contracts. Defines the tiers of natural gas uses and exempt uses of natural gas in the same manner as for business uses of oil, lumping natural gas and oil together for purposes of computing the user's exempt amount. Allows the President to suspend this tax, subject to the disapproval of either House of Congress, for up to one year. Allows taxpayers to elect a nonrefundable credit against the tax on business use of oil and gas for new depreciable property, acquired before 1991, which uses alternative fuels, or is used for transporting or producing alternative fuels, or is supplementary pollution control property otherwise required by law. Allows a carryover of the tax credit to the extent it exceeds current liability. Allows a carryover to 1981 of tax liability for 1978 and 1980. Requires that the election for such credit be made before or on the taxpayer's filing deadline for the first taxable year ending after 1978, or 1982 in the case of a regulated public utility. Prescribes special administrative provisions and definitions for property eligible for this credit. Allows a taxpayer to elect a regular investment tax credit for this property to the extent that it qualifies for the same, and to the extent that the taxpayer's current liability for the business use tax (minus carryovers) is exceeded by the allowable business use tax credit. Provides an additional business investment tax credit of ten percent for the period April 20, 1977 through 1982 for property which is not qualified for the regular investment credit but which is alternative energy equipment, recycling equipment, or is otherwise qualified under the definitions of this Act, or under regulations prescribed by the Secretary of the Treasury, in consultation with the Secretary of Energy, to cover energy efficient property. Denies the investment tax credit for air conditioning and heating units, and boilers and combustors fueled by petroleum or petroleum products (including natural gas) where coal is not prohibited by Federal or State pollution regulations. Limits the depreciation deduction of petroleum, petroleum product, or natural gas fueled boilers placed in service after June 30, 1977, to the straight line method. Allows the straight line depreciation deduction for boilers in use before April 21, 1977, to be taken against a line "drawn" to any early retirement dates established by the taxpayer for the boilers to the satisfaction of the Secretary of the Treasury. Makes the Tax Reduction and Simplification Act's temporary reduction in the minimum tax preference for intangible drilling costs a permanent reduction. Allows the deduction of intangible drilling expenses for geothermal wells to the same extent and manner as drilling expenses for gas and oil wells. Allows a ten percent depletion deduction for geothermal deposits, provided that it does not exceed the property's adjusted basis. Extends the excise tax exemption for lubricating oil to cover oils used in producing rerefined lubricating oil. Directs the President to make annual reports to Congress on the tax, energy and other relevant effects of this Title's provisions. Establishes congressional procedures for disapproval, by either House, of Presidential suspensions of the energy excise taxes. Provides administrative provisions for the collection, determination and disbursement of the taxes, rebates, credits, and deductions established under this Title.
United States · United States Congress · 20 July 1977
Amends the Mann Acts, which prohibit certain transportation of females for immoral purposes, to extend coverage to prohibit transportation of any individual for immoral purposes and to increase the penalties specified in such Act.
United States · United States Congress · 20 July 1977
Social Security Reform Amendments - Repeals the earnings limitation under title II (Old Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act. Provides benefits under such title to husbands, widowers, and fathers on the same basis as wives, widows, and mothers who presently receive benefits. Eliminates the five- month waiting period for disability benefits. Continues the benefit entitlement under such title through the month of the beneficiary's death. Permits individuals 65 years of age or older to elect an exemption from Social Security coverage and payment of Social Security coverage and payment of Social Security taxes. Eliminates marriage or remarriage of a beneficiary as a factor in terminating or reducing the amount of benefits available. Authorizes direct payments to physicians and other providers at their option under the supplementary medical insurance program of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act.
United States · United States Congress · 20 July 1977
Expresses the disapproval of Congress regarding the Federal motor vehicle safety standard transmitted to Congress on June 30, 1977.
United States · United States Congress · 18 July 1977
Title I: - Navigation Development Act - Authorizes the project for replacement of locks and dam 26, Mississippi River, Alton, Illinois and Missouri. Makes the following inland and intracoastal waterways subject to this Act: (1) Allegheny River, (2) Apalachicola-Chattahoochee and Flint Rivers, (3) Arkansas River, (4) Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, (5) Columbia River, (6) Willamette River, (7) Cumberland River, (8) Green and Barren Rivers, (9) Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, (10) Lower Mississippi River, (11) Upper Mississippi River, (12) Missouri River, (13) Black Warrior-Tombigbee-Mobile Rivers, (14) Ohio River, (15) Monongahela River, (16) Illinois Waterway, (17) Kanawha River, (18) Kentucky River, (19) Tennessee River, (20) Kaskaskia River, (21) Alabama-Coosa River, (22) Quachita-Black River, (23) Pearl River, (24) White River, (25) Red River, and (26) Atchafalaya River. Title II: - (No provisions contained in Title II of this Act as introduced). Title III: - Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation, in consultation with the Secretaries of Commerce, the Treasury, and the Army, to study the imposition of any fuel tax on inland waterway users, alternate or supplemental charges, and related matters. Permits the National Transportation Policy Study Commission to study matters which the Secretary of Transportation is directed to study.
United States · United States Congress · 18 July 1977
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow up to a $200 income tax deduction for one half of the expenses incurred for the installation and purchase of a teletypewriter for use by individuals whose sight, hearing, or speech is impaired.
United States · United States Congress · 15 July 1977
Amends the Airport and Airway Development Act of 1970 to direct the Secretary of Transportation to obligate for fiscal years 1979 and 1980 not less than $30,000,000 of the funds authorized to be appropriated under such Act for improving air navigation facilities for the purpose of establishing no fewer than 45 automated flight service stations. Defines "flight service stations" as air navigation facilities used to assist pilots in the safe conduct of flight.
United States · United States Congress · 13 July 1977
Protection of Personal Records Act - Prohibits Federal officers, employees, or agents from obtaining information which is contained in personal records maintained by a third-party recordkeeper. Defines the term "third-party recordkeeper" as any consumer reporting agency, creditor, financial institution, insurance institution or insurance support organization. Prohibits such recordkeepers from disclosing such information to a Federal officer, employee, or agent. Permits a Federal officer, employee, or agent to obtain information contained in personal records maintained by third-party recordkeepers, and permits such recordkeepers to disclose such information in the following cases: (1) when the person to whom the personal record relates expressly authorizes such disclosure; (2) when the Federal agent requiring such records obtains an administrative subpena in accordance with procedures set forth in this Act; (3) when such Federal agent has obtained a search warrant pursuant to the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure or applicable State law; or (4) when such Federal agent has obtained a judicial subpena. Prohibits the issuance of a search warrant, or of a judicial or administrative subpena, to obtain papers and effects of an individual which contain information of an intimate nature, including the business records of a sole practitioner, and which are in the possession of the individual or a third-party recordkeeper. Restricts the use by a Federal grand jury of information obtained from a personal record maintained by a third-party recordkeeper. States that personal information maintained by a third-party recordkeeper which is obtained in violation of the provisions of this Act may not be received in evidence in any trial or other proceeding before any court or other authority of the United States. Establishes civil remedies for individuals whose right to privacy under this Act is violated. Establishes criminal penalties for Federal officials who violate this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 13 July 1977
Amends the Fair Credit Reporting Act to require a credit grantor to disclose, upon request, specified information to a consumer who is adversely affected by a credit decision. Sets forth procedures to be followed when a consumer disputes the completeness or accuracy of any item of information contained in such consumer's file. Requires each commercial reporting service to maintain reasonable procedures designed to avoid the disclosure of inaccurate information to third persons and to assure that information maintained in its files is accurate. Makes provisions for the enforcement of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 13 July 1977
Title I: Depository Services - Amends the Fair Credit Reporting Act to set standards to be followed by depository institutions with respect to the gathering of any information concerning a consumer, including disclosure to the consumer of all types of information which may be collected and all types of institutions which may collect such information. Requires a depository institution to inform the consumer whenever it makes an adverse decision respecting a depository service involving such consumer. Makes provisions for the enforcement of this Act. Title II: Electronic Funds Transfer Services - Requires an electronic funds transfer service to destroy individually identifiable account information 45 days after the date of each transaction. Requires providers of such services to establish and maintain procedures enabling individuals to promptly correct inaccuracies in transactions or account records generated by the service.
United States · United States Congress · 13 July 1977
Privacy of Public Assistance and Social Services Records Act - Requires each State, as a condition for the receipt of Federal moneys for public assistance or social services programs, to provide for the privacy of records used in the administering of such programs. Subjects such State privacy laws to the certification of the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare as meeting the principles specified in this Act. Requires, in accordance with such principles, the provision of access to information by the subject of such information, the correction and accuracy of such information and the establishment of appropriate remedies and penalties for the enforcement of such statute.
United States · United States Congress · 13 July 1977
Amends the Fair Credit Reporting Act to make specified restrictions on disclosures of information respecting a consumer by credit reporting agencies applicable to independent authorization services. Defines such services as any persons who regularly engage in whole or in part in the practice of providing consumer credit information or other credit- related information on consumers to third persons, or guarantee the payment to payor banks of checks signed by consumers. Requires credit care issuers to maintain reasonable procedures to prevent disclosures of inaccurate information. Prohibits any credit reporting agency from making any consumer report respecting any consumer which contains information identifying any person to whom a previous consumer report respecting such consumer has been furnished.
United States · United States Congress · 13 July 1977
Amends the Fair Credit Reporting Act to establish safeguards for holders of insurance policies against errors of the insurance institution and violation of the privacy of such holders. Directs the Federal Trade Commission to promulgate regulations requiring specified institutions to make disclosures to policy holders. Specifies which information shall be disclosed.