United States · United States Congress · 9 March 1983
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to increase the income tax credit for child care expenses from a maximum of 30 percent to a maximum of 50 percent of such expenses. Reduces such percentage by one percent for each full $1,000 by which the taxpayer's adjusted gross income exceeds $10,000. Grants tax-exempt status to organizations which provide nonresidential dependent care services to the general public for purposes of enabling individuals to maintain employment.
United States · United States Congress · 8 March 1983
Vietnam Veterans Agent Orange Relief Act - Establishes a presumption of service-connected disability for veterans exposed to herbicides during service in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam era who suffer from specified diseases which may be caused by exposure to such herbicides, developed to a ten percent degree of disability. Permits the Administrator of Veterans Affairs to determine what other diseases may be due to exposure to herbicides, chemicals, or environmental hazards. Directs the Administrator to promulgate regulations within one year of enactment incorporating such determinations and setting forth the standards used to reach them.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1983
Vietnam Veterans National Medal Act - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to coin and sell a medal in honor of the members and former members of the Armed Forces who served in Vietnam. Declares that the Secretary shall offer such medals for sale to the public at a price sufficient to cover the cost of minting and distributing of such medals.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1983
Cigarette Safety Act - Directs the Consumer Product Safety Commission to promulgate, within 24 months, final performance standards for cigarettes and little cigars ensuring a minimal capacity for igniting smoldering fabric fires. Requires publication in the Federal Register, together with detailed reasons, of any decision not to promulgate a standard based on a finding that it is technologically impracticable or economically unreasonable. Authorizes the Commission to prohibit manufacturers from stockpiling such products to which such standards apply. Provides for judicial review of such standards in an appropriate U.S. court of appeals. Declares such cigarette safety standards to be subject to all remedial and penalty provisions of the Consumer Product Safety Act. Authorizes appropriations necessary to carry out this Act for the first three fiscal years beginning after enactment.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1983
Amends the Federal criminal code to impose mandatory minimum sentences for committing violent felonies against individuals aged 65 or over. Prohibits suspended, probationary, and concurrent sentences. Prohibits parole and any plea bargaining agreements that would result in the defendant's serving less than the minimum sentence.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1983
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide homebuilders with an income tax credit for the construction of residences which incorporate a passive solar energy system. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury, after consultation with the Secretaries of Energy and Housing and Urban Development, to prescribe regulations setting forth a solar construction credit table for purposes of determining the amount of the credit for which the incorporator of the solar energy system is eligible. Limits the dollar amount of such credit to $2,500. Phases out such credit in annual increments after 1988. Defines "passive solar energy system" as a system which contains a solar collection area, an absorber, a storage mass, a heat distribution method, and heat regulation devices. Requires such system to be installed in a new residence after September 30, 1983 and before January 1, 1992.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1983
Designates May 21, 1983, as National Sakharov Day. Authorizes and requests the President to: (1) call upon all nations to designate May 21, 1983, as National Sakharov Day; (2) urge the Soviet Union to permit the Sakharovs to freely choose their place of residence; and (3) direct the American delegation to the United Nations to introduce a resolution in the General Assembly calling upon that body to designate May 21, 1983, as International Sakharov Day.
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1983
Prohibits the shipment in interstate or foreign commerce of steel jaw leghold traps and articles of fur from animals that were caught in such traps. Sets forth penalties for violations of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1983
Natural Gas Policy Act Amendments of 1983 - Title I: Findings and Purposes - Sets forth: (1) ten Congressional findings concerning natural gas; and (2) the purposes of this Act. Title II: Amendments to the Natural Gas Policy Act of 1978 - Amends the Natural Gas Policy Act of 1978 to add to the definition of Btu. Sets forth a method of determining the number of Btu's per unit volume of natural gas. Defines definite price provision, indefinite price provision, market-out provision, and take-or-pay provision, for purposes of the use of such terms in a contract for the first sale of natural gas. Requires the price under any contract for the first sale of natural gas in effect on November 8, 1978, to remain the price after November 8, 1978, unless the contract expressly and specifically by its plain language authorizes prices established by Congress, in which case any price not in excess of the applicable maximum lawful price may apply. Repeals the annual inflation adjustment factors. Provides that the maximum lawful price for any first sale of natural gas shall be deemed to include all costs necessary to, or associated with, the delivery of marketable natural gas to the purchaser. Authorize an adjustment to the seller for necessary costs which deprive the seller of a just and reasonable return. Authorizes the purchaser an adjustment if the purchaser provides the seller consideration in addition to the maximum lawful prices. Establishes a transportation rate of no less than $0.05 per million Btu's end requires all revenues in excess of such amount to be credited back to the pipeline's customers. Declares null and void all indefinite price provisions in all contracts for the first sale of natural gas. Deems all contracts for the first sale of natural gas which is affected by deregulation to include a market-out provision. Deems all take-or-pay provisions in effect as of enactment to be reduced by 50 percent. Declares null and void any first sale contract which restricts the right of the purchaser to contest the contract. Requires all first sale contracts to be filed with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and made available to the public. Confers jurisdiction on the FERC to resolve contract disputes, on petition by any party to a contract. Directs the FERC to promulgate a final rule establishing the interest rate at which refunds shall be paid by natural gas companies on any collections made in excess of approved rates. Directs the FERC to undertake and complete a comprehensive study of minimum bill and related provisions in interstate pipeline tariffs.
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1983
Health Insurance for Unemployed Workers Act of 1983 - Permits States to establish and regulate reinsurance pools providing three or more qualified pool health options for unemployed individuals. Requires each State reinsurance pool to offer three or more health plan options to any unemployed individual and his family, at a monthly rate which is discounted from the average premium amount. Authorizes the State insurance commissioner or other official having jurisdiction over group health plans to be responsible for establishing and overseeing the operation of the pool. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to certify whether a State reinsurance pool meets all the stipulated requirements. Allows for private reinsurance pools in States which do not establish a State reinsurance pool. Directs the Secretary to carry out the duties of the State insurance commissioner in such instances. Directs the Secretary to establish a Federal pool in States where there is no State or private reinsurance pool. Waives participation in a pool by any group health plan provider which extends coverage under a group plan for covered employees after involuntary termination or layoff, at a level equal to or surpassing the minimum extended coverage required by a qualified pool health plan. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to disqualify for income tax deductions an employer's premium payments to any group health plan that does not provide coverage according to this Act. Requires qualifying group health plans to provide for the continuation of health insurance coverage following an employee's involuntary severance. Makes qualified unemployed individuals in States without pool health plans eligible to enroll in the hospital insurance program and in the supplementary medical insurance program under title XVIII of the Social Security Act. Directs the Secretary to establish expedited enrollment procedures. Provides for conversion from such Social Security coverage to pool health plan coverage. Provides for Federal contributions to reinsurance pools when the national unemployment rate exceeds seven and one-half percent and the individual State's unemployment rate is equal to 110 percent of the national rate for the previous six months.
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1983
Title I: Consumer Credit - Consumer Debtor Bankruptcy Amendments Act of 1983 - Amends the Bankruptcy Code to permit a bankruptcy court to dismiss a case or suspend all proceedings if it determines that a debtor whose debts are primarily consumer debts does not need the provisions of the chapter under which relief has been sought and the granting of relief under such chapter would be a substantial abuse of its provisions. Requires the Clerk of each Federal judicial district to compile statistics regarding debtors where debts are primarily consumer debts. Requires the bankruptcy judge to convene, and permits such judge to preside at, any meeting of creditors and to perform such additional judicial duties as may be required. Declares that the value of the creditor's interest in the estate's interest in consumer goods property shall be determined in light of the purpose of the valuation and of the proposed disposition or use of such property, and in conjunction with any hearing on such disposition or use or on a plan effecting such creditor's interest. Declares that the value of consumer goods which the debtor seeks to redeem in liquidation shall be presumed to be the established resale market price, if such market exists. Permits the court to utilize other methods of valuation if no such market exists or if the court determines that resale value is inappropriate in light of the property's proposed use or disposition. Requires the debtor in bankruptcy cases to file a statement of estimated income and expenses for the year following filing of his petition. Requires the debtor, if the schedule of assets and liabilities include consumer debts secured by property of the estate, to file and serve upon each creditor holding such security and upon the trustee, a statement expressing the debtor's intention with respect to retention or surrender of the collateral. Requires the debtor, at or before the meeting of creditors provided for by such title, to perform his intention with regard to such secured creditors. Requires that the notice of meeting of the creditors be accompanied by a copy of the statement of estimated income and expenses and that the debtor supply the clerk of the court, upon the filing of the petition, with enough copies of such statement to accommodate the listed creditors. Requires individuals filing for bankruptcy in joint or consolidated cases to elect either the Federal or State exemptions. Places an aggregate limit of $3,000 on the value of the exemption with regard to household goods and personal effects. Prohibits the debtor from utilizing the unused dollar value of the homestead exemption to exempt additional property not explicitly provided for by such Act. Repeals the provisions of such Act which currently authorize the debtor to avoid nonpurchase money security interest in property. Presumes nondischargeable any debt incurred on or within 40 days before the date of the filing of a petition under such title. Allows for rebuttal of such presumption. Allows creditors to enforce liens which have not been avoided in bankruptcy. Permits reaffirmation of consumer debts subject to the debtor's right to rescind any such agreement within 60 days or until a discharge is received, whichever occurs later. Declares that at the meeting of creditors the court shall inform the debtor of the nature and effect of a discharge and of any reaffirmation of debt. Prohibits the custodian from being an assignee under a general assignment for the benefit of the debtor's creditors that was appointed or took possession more than 120 days before the date of the filing of the petition. Permits the trustee or the court, however, to require such an assignee to file an accounting. Limits the trustee's power to avoid liens or recover payments made within 90 days of the filing of the petition in bankruptcy (within one year in the case of an insider) unless the creditor had reasonable cause to believe the debtor was insolvent. Permits the court, upon notice and hearing, to require a creditor to accept payments in redemption of the value of a claim secured by a nonpossessory, nonpurchase money security interest in tangible personal property, over a reasonable period not to exceed five years, if such tangible personal property consists of specified household goods and tools of the debtor's trade. Permits the court, upon notice and hearing, to avoid any lien in whole or in part, if the court finds;: (1) that the debtor has no reasonable ability to pay the redemption value of such property out of anticipated future income; and (2) the enforcement of such lien would impose undue hardship on the debtor. Allows a creditor, upon 10 days notice to the debtor and codebtor, to collect any portion of a debt from the codebtor which is not being paid by the debtor through the adjustment of debts of such debtor with a regular income. Requires payments under an adjustment of debts payment plan to commence within thirty days after the filing of the plan. Provides for the return of such funds after deducting the costs of administration if no plan is confirmed. Provides for the separate classification of codebtor claims and non-dischargeable claims and authorizes payment of them under an adjustment of debts payment plan. Allows a debtor to choose such a repayment plan of up to five years. Bases such repayment upon the debtor's ability to repay out of future income after taking into account the basic living necessities for the debtor and dependents. Provides for an early discharge of debts where a reasonable portion of unsecured claims are paid. Permits a hardship discharge of otherwise non-dischargeable debts to the extent the debtor attempted to pay such debts under an adjustment of debts payment plan, but was prevented from so doing by unforeseen circumstances. Title II: Agricultural Produce - Agricultural Produce Bailment Bankruptcy Amendments Act of 1983 - Requires bankruptcy courts to give priority to allowed unsecured claims of farmers arising from the sale or conversion of farm produce to or by a debtor who operates a farm produce storage facility. Specifies that such sale or conversion must have occurred within 180 days before the filing of the petition or before the cessation of the debtor's business, whichever occurs first. Limits the payment of any such claim to $2,000 per individual. Permits a bankruptcy court to expedite the procedures for determining interests in and the disposition of grain and proceeds held by debtors who own or operate grain storage facilities. Requires the court to expedite such procedures if requested by a trustee or a claimant. Sets forth factors for the court to consider before deciding whether to shorten the time periods for procedures. Lists the procedures which may be expedited. Specifies administration details. Title III: Miscellaneous - Declares that if any provision of this Act or the application thereof to any person or circumstances is held invalid the provisions of every other part and their application shall not be affected thereby. Makes the provisions of this Act effective 90 days after enactment. Declares that the amendments made by this Act shall not apply to cases pending before the date of enactment.
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1983
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the proposed changes by the Office of Management and Budget to Circular A-122 that would prohibit Federal reimbursement of Government contractors and grantees for the cost of activities constituting political advocacy should be withdrawn permanently.
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1983
Amends the National Labor Relations Act to authorize the Secretary of Labor to prohibit the awarding of Federal contracts to persons who have violated certain judicial orders or orders issued by the National Labor Relations Board. Limits the period of such ban to not more than three years after the Secretary has certified the identify of such person to the Comptroller General. Permits the awarding of Federal contracts to such person during the period of the ban if the Federal agency or department, after notice and opportunity for hearing to all interested parties, certifies to the Secretary that there is no other source for the material or services furnished by such person.
United States · United States Congress · 28 February 1983
Amends title I of the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act of 1972 to prohibit the ocean dumping of any liquid hazardous substance starting five years after enactment of this Act. Permits such interim dumping only if the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finds, after notice and opportunity for hearing, that: (1) there is no other technologically feasible method of disposal or treatment; or (2) any such method is more dangerous to human health than ocean dumping. Exempts from such prohibition any substance which is rapidly neutralized in the marine environment. Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to place similar prohibitions on the land disposal of liquid hazardous waste. Requires the Administrator of EPA to notify Congress within two years of those liquid hazardous wastes which can only be land disposed. Authorizes Federal agencies to dispose of liquid hazardous wastes by means other than ocean dumping or land disposal.
United States · United States Congress · 25 February 1983
Title I: Labor Standards - Requires any United States person who has or controls an enterprise in South Africa which employs more than 20 people to insure that in operating such enterprise the following employment principles are implemented: (1) desegregation in any employment facility; (2) equal employment for all employees; (3) equal pay for equal work; (4) establishment of a minimum wage and salary structure; (5) increase in the representation of nonwhites in managerial, supervisory, administrative, clerical, and technical jobs; (6) improvement of the quality of employees' lives outside the work environment; and (7) recognition of labor unions and fair labor practices. Declares that the Secretary may issue guidelines and give advisory opinions on compliance with such principles. Directs the Secretary of State to establish an Advisory Council in South Africa to advise the Secretary with respect to the implementation of such employment principles and to review the annual reports which each U.S. person covered by this Act must submit to the Secretary on the progress made in implementing such principles. Directs the Secretary to establish in the United States an American Advisory Council to make policy recommendations regarding labor practices of U.S. persons in South Africa and to review such persons' progress in implementing such employment practices. Directs the Secretary: (1) to take specified actions to insure compliance with the implementation of such employment principles; and (2) to review the compliance of such persons at least biennially. Sets forth penalties for noncompliance. Authorizes the President to waive compliance with the implementation of such principles if such compliance would harm U.S. national security. Title II: Prohibition on Loans and Importation of Gold Coins - Prohibits any U.S. financial or lending institution from making any loan directly or through a foreign subsidiary to South Africa unless such loan is for educational, housing or health facilities available to all persons on a nondiscriminatory basis. Prohibits the importation of any gold coin minted in South Africa or sold by South Africa. Directs the Secretary to take specified actions to enforce the prohibitions on loans and the importation of gold coins. Sets forth penalties for violations of such prohibitions. Authorizes the President to waive such prohibitions for one year if South Africa meets specified conditions. Title III: General Provisions - Directs Federal agencies to cooperate with the Secretary in carrying out provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1983
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to permit an income tax deduction from gross income for adoption fees, court costs, attorney's fees, and other expenses incurred in the adoption of a child.
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1983
Amends the Department of Defense Authorization Act, 1983, to delay until July 1, 1984, the effective date for the denial of Federal educational assistance to students who have failed to comply with the registration requirements under the Military Selective Service Act.
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1983
Title I: Essential Preventive Programs for Children - Subtitle A: Child Welfare; Adoption; Juvenile Justice Runaway Youth - Makes appropriations for FY 1984 to enable the Secretary of Health and Human Services to cooperate with State public welfare agencies in establishing, extending, and strengthening child welfare services, pursuant to the authority contained in specified provisions of the Adoption Reform and Child Welfare Act of 1980 and the Social Security Act. Reauthorizes the program of Federal payments for dependent children voluntarily placed in foster care (by eliminating the October 1, 1983, termination date for such program) under the Adoption Assistance and Child Welfare Act of 1980. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1984 for grants to States for child abuse and neglect prevention and treatment programs under the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1984 for demonstration projects under such Act. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1984 to carry out provisions relating to adoption opportunities under title II of the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment and Adoption Reform Act of 1978. Authorizes and makes appropriations for FY 1984 to make grants and contracts under the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act of 1978 for programs and projects to prevent, identify, and treat sexual abuse of children. Limits to ten percent the amount of such funds which may be used for research. Makes appropriations for FY 1984, pursuant to the above authorizations of appropriations for: (1) grants to States under the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act; (2) demonstration projects under such Act; (3) adoption opportunities under title II of the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment and Adoption Reform Act of 1978; and (4) programs and projects related to the treatment of sexual abuse of children. Amends the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981 to eliminate the ceiling on appropriations to carry out title II (Programs and Offices) of the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act of 1974. Makes appropriations for FY 1984 to carry out such title. Amends the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act of 1974 to increase the amount authorized to be appropriated for FY 1984 for part A (Grants Program) of title III (Runaway and Homeless Youth) of such Act. Makes appropriations for FY 1984 for such grants program for runaway and homeless youth under such Act. Subtitle B: Child Care - Makes appropriations for FY 1984 to carry out the Head Start Act, pursuant to the authority contained in specified provisions of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981. Amends the National School Lunch Act to restore a reimbursement level for up to three meals and two supplements per day per child. (Current law provides for only two meals and one supplement.) Provides that no institution may be prohibited from serving breakfast, lunch, supper, and supplements to any eligible child each day, except in the case of institutions that provide day care to school children outside of school hours. Eliminates provisions for ten percent reductions in the total amount of reimbursement provided for school lunch program administrative expenses for family or group day care home sponsoring organizations. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to immediately adjust the maximum allowable level for administrative expense payments so as to achieve an increase in the total amount of reimbursement which is equivalent to any reduction made pursuant to specified amendments made by the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981. Provides for restoration of the child care nutrition equipment assistance program under the National School Lunch Act. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to provide assistance under the National School Lunch Act to States for programs serving large numbers of low-income children meals under such Act and the Child Nutrition Act of 1966. Sets forth formulas for reimbursements to institutions. Amends title XX (Block Grants to States for Social Services) of the Social Security Act to establish a program of supplemental incentive grants to States for child day care services. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1984 for such program. Sets forth provisions for apportionment among the States and other program requirements. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to increase the income tax credit for household and dependent care expenses from 20 percent to a maximum of 50 percent of such expenses. Reduces such percentage by one percent for each full $1,000 by which the taxpayer's adjusted gross income exceeds $10,000. Makes the income tax credit for household and dependent care services refundable. Provides that no part of such credit shall be: (1) counted as income in determining eligibility for other entitlement programs; or (2) counted against other credits under specified provisions of the Code. Grants tax-exempt status to organizations which provide nonresidential dependent care services to the general public for purposes of enabling individuals to maintain employment. Subtitle C: Health Care for Mothers and Children - Part 1: Appropriations - Amends title V (Maternal and Child Health and Crippled Children's Services) of the Social Security Act to increase the amount authorized to be appropriated for FY 1984 for the maternal and child health block grant program. Makes appropriations for FY 1984 for such program. Makes appropriations for FY 1984 for grants to community health centers, pursuant to the authority contained in the Public Health Service Act. Makes appropriations for FY 1984 to carry out title X (Population Research and Family Planning) of the Public Health Service Act, pursuant to the authority contained in such Act and in the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981. Amends the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981 and the Public Health Service Act to increase the amount authorized to be appropriated in FY 1984 for grants for preventive health service programs to immunize children against immunizable diseases. Makes appropriations for FY 1984 for such grants. Amends the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981 and the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 to increase the amount authorized to be appropriated for FY 1984 for the special supplemental food program for women, infants and children (WIC). Makes appropriations for FY 1984 for the WIC program. Part 2: Medicaid - Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to provide for: (1) eligibility for certain needy individuals under age 18 and pregnant women; (2) automatic eligibility determination procedures during the first two months of life for certain children born to women receiving Medicaid assistance; (3) vision, hearing, and dental care services for eligible individuals under age 21; (4) exemption of certain expenditures in calculating Federal expenditure targets for States; and (5) mandatory Medicaid eligibility for recipients of State-provided child care. Subtitle D: Education - Makes appropriations for FY 1984 to carry out chapter I (Financial Assistance to Meet Special Educational Needs of Disadvantaged Children) of the Education Consolidation and Improvement Act of 1981, pursuant to the authority contained in the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981. Makes appropriations for FY 1984 to carry out part B (Assistance for Education of All Handicapped Children) of the Education of the Handicapped Act, pursuant to the authority contained in the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981. Amends the National School Lunch Act to provide for a reduction of reduced-price meal costs. Revises eligibility standards for free and reduced-price lunches. Provides for an increased subsidy for preparation of free or reduced-price meals. Amends the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 to repeal the $5,000,000 per fiscal year limitation on funding for grants to States for nutrition education and information programs. Authorizes appropriations for at least $10,000,000 per fiscal year for such grants. Makes appropriations for FY 1984 for such grants. Repeals provisions of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981 which lowered the earned income deduction under the food stamps program. Amends the Food Stamp Act of 1977 to increase the earned income deduction. Provides for optional retrospective accounting for determining household eligibility under the food stamps program. Raises food stamp benefit amounts to thrifty food plan levels. Subtitle F: Family Supports - Amends title XX (Block Grants to States for Social Services) to increase the amount authorized to be appropriated for FY 1984 and succeeding fiscal years. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide for an upward adjustment of the credit for dependent children and children under age six. Reduces the tax on earned income of low-income workers. Amends title IV, part A (Aid to Families with Dependent Children) of the Social Security Act to repeal provisions which count earned income tax credit payments in advance as income for AFDC grant determination purposes. Amends title IV, part A (Aid to Families with Dependent Children) of the Social Security Act to provide for: (1) mandatory supplemental payments to families with income; (2) optional retrospective budgeting and optional monthly reporting by States; (3) elimination of the four-month restriction on work incentive disregards; (4) repeal of the 150 percent cap on income limit for eligibility; and (5) increased amounts for the disregards for work expenses and child care expenses. Subtitle G: Youth Employment - Makes appropriations for FY 1984 to carry out part A (Adult and Youth Programs) of title II (Training Services for the Disadvantaged) and title IV (Federally Administered Programs) (other than part B - Job Corps - provisions of title IV) of the Job Training Partnership Act of 1982. Requires that at least 93 percent of the appropriated amount be available to carry out local training programs for economically disadvantaged persons under part A of title II of such Act. Makes appropriations for FY 1984 to carry out part B (Summer Youth Employment and Training Programs) of title II of the Job Training Partnership Act of 1982.
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1983
Solar Energy National Security and Employment (SENSE) Act of 1983 - Title I: Use of Solar and Other Renewable Forms of Energy Developed By Private Sector - Renewable Energy Small Business Development Act of 1983 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to increase the energy percentage for energy property which is used in determining the qualified investment tax credit. Treats biomass recycling equipment as biomass property and includes biomass property as "energy property" for purposes of the energy percentage. Eliminates the requirement that the primary energy sources for a facility producing alcohol for fuel purposes not be oil or natural gas or a product of either one in order for such alcohol to be treated as "qualified fuel" for purposes of the energy percentage. Amends the Export-Import Bank Act of 1945 to require that a minimum of 12 percent of the loan authority of the Export-Import Bank in any fiscal year be made available only to businesses with $25,000,000 or less in previous-year sales and include an amount of loan authority for renewable energy transactions that is appropriate to the demand for such loans. Amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 to require that the rates for purchases by an electric utility of electric energy from any qualifying cogeneration facility or qualifying small power production facility be established at the incremental cost of alternative electric energy of such utility, unless the State regulatory authority or a nonregulated electric utility determines that a different rate would encourage cogeneration and small power production, would not discriminate against cogenerators and small power producers, and would be in the consumers' and the public's interest. (Currently, such rates must be just and reasonable to the consumers and in the public interest and must not discriminate against cogenerators and small power producers.) Requires a cogeneration facility or small power production facility to pay reasonable interconnection costs incurred by an electric utility which is required to offer to interconnect with such facility. Requires the U.S. Trade Representative to issue policy guidance to departments and agencies with respect to international trade issues involving renewable energy. Amends the Small Business Innovation Development Act of 1982 to require that a reasonable portion of the funds appropriated for nonnuclear programs of the Department of Energy be set aside for renewable energy and energy conservation businesses. Title II: Renewable Energy National Security - Renewable Energy National Security Act of 1983 - Requires the Secretary of a military department, when procuring energy systems, to procure systems that include energy-conserving equipment. Includes biofuels as a renewable form of energy for purposes of energy systems procurement by a military department. Requires the Secretary of Defense to provide for the use of biofuels in meeting Department of Defense energy needs to the extent feasible and consistent with overall defense needs. Requires the Secretary of Defense to encourage the use of energy-conserving devices and equipment in military construction projects, including family housing projects, where practical and economically feasible. Amends the Agricultural Act of 1949 to include spoilt and contaminated grains among the accumulated stocks of agricultural commodities which the Commodity Credit Corporation may process into liquid fuels. Authorizes the Corporation to provide for the storage of liquid fuels so processed for use by the agricultural sector during periods of fuel shortages. Requires the Corporation to provide for the processing of spoilt and contaminated commodities into liquid fuels before the processing of stocks of usable feedstock. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to require the Secretary of Energy to maintain a data base on the location of all stockpiles of renewable energy supplies and biofuels and of all renewable energy production facilities in the United States. Requires that such data be made available to Government departments and agencies upon request. Requires the Secretary of Defense to assess and report to the Armed Services Committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate on the feasibility of using mobile energy systems that use renewable energy as emergency backup energy systems at military installations. Title III: Federal Training and Economic Development Programs to Create Jobs in Energy Conservation Industries - Part A: Short Title; Findings - Renewable Energy Employment Act - Sets forth the short title of this title and congressional findings. Part B: Job Training in Renewable Energy - Requires the Secretary of Labor to review all Federal job training or placement programs and to implement policies, procedures, and programs to develop a labor force skilled in energy conservation, weatherization of homes, and the use of renewable energy technologies. Part C: Housing and Community Development Programs - Amends the Energy Conservation in Existing Buildings Act of 1976 to require the Secretary of Energy to maintain information on: (1) the areas to be served under the weatherization assistance program; (2) methods for providing priority assistance to elderly and severely handicapped low-income persons; (3) outreach activities with respect to such program; (4) labor plans; (5) policies to ensure that owners and renters are treated equitably; and (6) plans to ensure participation by Native Americans under such program. Requires the Secretary and the Director of the Community Services Administration to include in the annual report to the President and Congress on the weatherization program an evaluation of the effect of such program on energy conservation and employment. Authorizes appropriations for the weatherization program for FY 1984 and succeeding fiscal years. Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 to include the potential for local energy development, including energy conservation and renewable energy use, among the factors which must be taken into account by the standards issued by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development for determining the eligibility of cities and urban counties for urban development action grants. Includes among the activities of Community Development Programs which are eligible for assistance under such Act those amounts spent for energy needs. Amends the Housing Act of 1949 to authorize the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to make loans for energy conservation and renewable energy development or retrofit for housing in rural areas. Requires Federal agencies administering financial assistance programs for economic development or job creation to consider the development of energy conservation and renewable energy as significant criteria for the provision of such assistance. Part D: Promotion of Sustainable Agriculture - Amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to include as non-fossil energy systems windmills, anaerobic digesters, alcohol distilleries, microhydroelectric generators, gasifiers, and solar heating systems. Requires the Secretary of Agriculture, in making loans to farmers and ranchers, to promote sustainable agriculture (a set of agricultural production practices which are designed to produce long term, sustainable yields of agricultural products, involve the use of renewable resources, and avoid the use of chemical products). Amends the Rural Development Act of 1972 to require that small farm extension programs assist small farm families in carrying out sustainable agriculture. Provides that sustainable agriculture extension programs shall consist of extension programs to provide farmers with assistance and current information with respect to sustainable agriculture. Permits all other persons in a State, in addition to universities and colleges in such State, to participate in agricultural research and extension programs. (Under current law, only universities and colleges in a State may participate in such programs.) Requires the Secretary of Agriculture, in carrying out the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977, to ensure that adequate national support of extension, teaching, and agricultural research is provided to establish integrated multidisciplinary organic farming research projects. Requires the Secretary of Agriculture to report annually to Congress on sustainable agriculture in the United States. Title IV: Renewable Energy Consumer Incentives - Renewable Energy Consumer Incentives Act of 1983 - Amends the Solar Energy and Energy Conservation Act of 1980 to extend the life of the Solar Energy and Energy Conservation Bank until September 30, 1990. (Under current law, the Bank will not exist after September 30, 1987.) Requires that a portion of the payments by the Bank to financial institutions to provide financial assistance for the installation of solar energy systems in residential, commercial, and agricultural buildings be allocated for active solar energy. Provides that there shall be no Federal preference with respect to financial assistance between single-family and multifamily residences. Permits all financial institutions to apply directly to the Bank for financial assistance. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1985 through 1990 for the financial assistance program under the Solar Energy and Energy Conservation Act of 1980 for the purchase and installation of residential and commercial energy conserving improvements and solar energy systems. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to include passive solar energy property which uses convective, conductive, or radiant energy transfer and which has significant impact on home energy savings as a "renewable energy source property" which is eligible for the residential energy credit. Makes the residential energy credit inapplicable to energy conservation and renewable energy source expenditures made after December 31, 1990. (Under current law, such credit is inapplicable to expenditures made after December 31, 1985.) Amends the Low- Income Home Energy Assistance Act of 1981 to permit a State to transfer up to ten percent of its allotment under the low-income home energy assistance program for States to block grants for support of energy related information systems. Requires the Secretary of Energy to develop a formalized information exchange on the Federal, State, and local levels with respect to conservation and renewable energy. Authorizes appropriations to provide financial assistance to States and local governments to coordinate such program. Amends the Solar Energy Research, Development, and Demonstration Act of 1974 to require the Secretary of Energy to maintain a renewable energy and energy conservation information program. (This program replaces the solar energy information program required to be established under current law.) Requires the Secretary to establish a National Appropriate Technology Service to provide individualized technical assistance to anyone interested in renewable energy and energy efficient technologies. Amends the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act to require the Secretary of Transportation to consider the use or integration of renewable fuels and any approaches which maximize conservation and renewable energy applications in determining maximum feasible average fuel economy. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to require the Federal Trade Commission to prescribe labeling requirements for consumer goods particularly in cases where there is a direct consumer benefit to save energy or utilize renewable energy. Amends the Small Business Act to authorize the Small Business Administration to provide reduced-rate loans to small businesses for acquisition of system performance ratings from testing laboratories for energy conservation and renewable energy systems and technologies. Amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 to require State regulatory authorities to adopt and publish standard contracts with respect to: (1) the sale of electric energy by utilities to small power production facilities of not more than 100 kilowatts capacity; and (2) the purchase of electric energy produced by such facilities by utilities. Requires the Secretary of Energy to include renewable energy as a discrete energy sector in all publications of "The Monthly Energy Review." Requires Federal agencies with renewable energy programs to submit annual reports on such programs to Congress. Sets forth reporting requirements which apply to specified Federal agencies.
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1983
Renewable Energy Small Business Development Act of 1983 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend the investment tax credit for specified energy property from 1985 to 1990. Increases such credit for solar, wind, and geothermal property. Amends the Export-Import Bank Act of 1945 to require that not less than 12 percent of the loan authority of the Export-Import Bank shall be made available only to businesses with $25,000,000 or less in previous-year sales. Requires that a portion of such loan authority be made available for transactions involving renewable energy. Amends the Public Utlilities Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 to specify rules for the rates for purchase by electric utilities of electric energy from any qualifying cogeneration facility or qualifying small power production facility. Amends a specified reorganization plan to require the Department of Commerce to provide the same treatment and export assistance to businesses involved in renewable energy as it does to other U.S. industries. Amends the Small Business Innovation Act of 1982 to specify that renewable energy and energy conservation businesses shall receive a reasonable portion of the Department of Energy's small business research and development funds.
United States · United States Congress · 22 February 1983
Expresses the sense of the Congress that: (1) the Soviet Union should comply with certain international agreements relating to human rights by pursuing a more humane emigration policy and by ceasing harassment of Jews and others seeking to emigrate; (2) Soviet compliance with internationally recognized emigration rights would significantly promote improved relations with the United States; (3) the President should convey these concerns of Congress to the Soviet Union at every appropriate opportunity; and (4) the President should also convey these concerns to U.S. allies.
United States · United States Congress · 17 February 1983
Handgun Crime Control Act of 1983 - Title I: Amendments to Chapter 44 of Title 18, United States Code - Amends the Federal criminal code to direct the Attorney General to approve for manufacture, assembly, importation, sale, or transfer any handgun model which is generally recognized as particularly suitable for or readily adaptable to sporting purposes. Makes it unlawful for any licensed manufacturer, importer, dealer, or collector to manufacture, assemble, sell, deliver, or transfer any handgun (other than a curio or relic) which is not an approved model. Makes it unlawful for any non-licensee to sell or transfer any handgun (other than curio or relic) unless such person knows or has reasonable cause to believe such handgun is an approved model. Prohibits a pawnbroker from being licensed as a dealer in handguns or handgun ammunition. Directs the Attorney General to review State laws providing for permits to carry and purchase handguns and certify those meeting specified standards. Allows an individual possessing a permit under a certified State law to purchase a handgun if certain requirements are met. Makes it unlawful for a licensed dealer to transfer a handgun to a person not holding a permit under a certified State law unless certain procedures are followed. Requires in any such case that the transferee appear in person at the dealer's business premises. Requires the dealer, before delivery of the handgun, to forward a copy of a sworn statement by the transferee to the chief local law enforcement officer of the transferee's place of residence and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for an identity and record check. Prohibits delivery until 21 days after submission of the sworn statement. Makes it unlawful for any licensed importer, manufacturer, dealer, or collector to sell to the same person, or for any non-licensee to purchase, three or more handguns during a period of one year without the prior approval of the Attorney General. Makes it unlawful for any person to fail to report the loss, theft, or disappearance of a handgun in his possession to the authorities within 24 hours after discovering such loss. Requires all licensed importers, manufacturers, and dealers to maintain accurate records of all handgun transfers. Makes any person who negligently transfers a handgun in violation of this Act civilly liable for the death or injury of an individual as a result of the use of such handgun by the transferee during commission of an offense. Makes it unlawful for any person to transport any firearm or ammunition in interstate or foreign commerce if such transportation violates a State law in a place through which the firearm is shipped or an ordinance at the place of sale, delivery, or other disposition. Increases the license fee for handgun dealers from $10 to $500 and for manufacturers and importers from $50 to $5,000. Makes it unlawful for any illegal alien, dishonorably discharged member of the Armed Forces, or U.S. citizen who has renounced such citizenship to possess, transport, or receive any firearm or ammunition. Amends the Omnibus Crime Control Act of 1970 to revise and increase the mandatory penalties for using or carrying a firearm during commission of a Federal felony. Deletes the requirement that the firearm be carried "illegally." Increases the additional penalty imposed for such offense to two to ten years' imprisonment for a first offense (currently, one to ten years) and five to 25 years for a second offense (currently, two to 25 years). Extends to first offenders the requirement, currently applicable only to second offenders, that the court not suspend any sentence, grant probation, or impose concurrent sentences, unless the court finds the existence of enumerated mitigating circumstances. Adds a term of parole ineligibility as an additional restriction on first offenders (two years) and subsequent offenders (five years). Title II: Gun Control Functions Transferred to the Attorney General - Transfers to the Attorney General all functions of the Secretary of the Treasury under the Gun Control Act of 1968. Establishes the Firearms Safety and Abuse Control Administration within the Department of Justice. Requires the Attorney General to report annually to Congress on the activities of the Administration. Title III: Miscellaneous Provisions - Directs the Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations, in consultation with the U.S. Conference of Mayors and the National League of Cities, to report on the intergovernmental problems involved in controlling illicit handgun traffic and the effectiveness of the Gun Control Act of 1968.
United States · United States Congress · 17 February 1983
Low-Income Energy Assistance Trust Fund Act of 1983 - Amends the Department of Energy Organization Act to make unrefunded petroleum price control overcharges available for energy assistance. Establishes in the Treasury the Energy Assistance Trust Fund which shall be available for home energy assistance, residential energy efficiency programs, and other energy programs to assist low-income energy consumers. Appropriates funds which shall be transferred at least monthly from the general fund of the Treasury to the Trust Fund. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to hold the Trust Fund and report to Congress annually, starting with FY 1983, on the Trust Fund's financial condition and operations for the preceding fiscal year and for the next five fiscal years. Sets forth investment requirements pertaining to the Trust Fund. Establishes in the Department of Health and Human Services the Office of Energy Special Counsel. Transfers the Office of Special Counsel of the Department of Energy to the Energy Special Counsel. Requires that the Energy Special Counsel transmit to the President and Congress a plan for the collection of petroleum price control overcharges made in violation of the Emergency Petroleum Allocation Act of 1973. Requires the Comptroller General to periodically review the Energy Special Counsel's activities and report quarterly to Congress.
United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1983
Residential Mortgage Investment Act of 1983 - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 and the Internal Revenue Code to exempt from specified prohibited transaction provisions: (1) any qualified mortgage transaction engaged in by an employee benefit plan provided only that such transaction received the prior approval of an independent fiduciary; and (2) purchase, retention, or sale by an employee benefit plan of interests in Federal or State government-guaranteed residential mortgage loans.
United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1983
Permits the Secretary of Defense to lease rather than construct specifically authorized family housing projects within the United States, Puerto Rico, and Guam. Requires that the Armed Services Committees be given 30 days notice of any lease in excess of $250,000 annual rental.
United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1983
Adds the South Africa Investment Prohibition Act as a new title to the President's war powers authority. Directs the President to issue regulations prohibiting U.S. investment in South Africa. Directs the President to establish mechanisms to monitor compliance with such regulations. Sets forth penalties for violations of such prohibition. Terminates such prohibition after the President submits to Congress a determination that South Africa has made progress toward full participation by all South Africans in the life of that country and toward an end to discrimination, unless Congress adopts a resolution disapproving such determination.
United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1983
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the Attorney General and each U.S. attorney should: (1) vigorously investigate all alleged acts of violence, harassment, and coercion directed at a minority or ethnic group by a member of the Ku Klux Klan; (2) prosecute violations of civil rights and Federal criminal laws; and (3) seek injunctions against future acts of discrimination, harassment, or coercion against any citizen because of such citizen's race, color, religion, sex, or national origin or exercise of civil rights. Urges civic and religious groups to continue to promote racial, religious, and ethnic understanding and cooperation.
United States · United States Congress · 8 February 1983
National Science and Mathematics Teachers Development Act - Establishes the National Science and Mathematics Teachers Development Board in the Department of Education. Requires that the functions of the Secretary of Education under this Act be carried out through the Board. Directs the Secretary to make grants to institutions of higher education for continuing education programs designed to improve the skills and competence of secondary school teachers of science and mathematics. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1985 to carry out this Act. Authorizes appropriations for related administrative expenses. Sets forth application requirements for program participation by institutions of higher education. Directs the Secretary to establish criteria to achieve equitable distribution of assistance under this Act among the States and areas within each State. Limits the amount of any grant under this Act to a single institution of higher education to $200,000. Authorizes the Secretary to make supplementary matching grants to institutions of higher education under specified conditions. Limits each grant to $250,000. Sets forth provisions for payments to institutions of higher education under this Act. Directs the Secretary to report to the Congress by December 31, 1985, on expenditures under this Act, Board activities, and types of grants made, with recommendations for further legislation to develop adequate science and mathematics teacher training.
United States · United States Congress · 8 February 1983
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that Anatoly Shcharansky should be released from prison and permitted to emigrate. Urges continued expression of U.S. opposition to the imprisonment of Anatoly Shcharansky.
United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1983
Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act to direct the Secretary of the Treasury to implement procedures for identifying social security benefit checks issued under title II which have not been negotiated within 12 months and to credit the appropriate social security trust fund, on a monthly basis, for the amount of all unnegotiated benefit checks drawn on such trust fund. Requires the Secretary to pay a benefit check presented for payment after it has been credited to one of the trust funds, and to recharge such trust fund, if such check is otherwise proper. Authorizes appropriations to reimburse the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund and the Federal Disability Insurance Trust Fund for the total amount of unnegotiated benefit checks.
United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1983
Amends the Military Selective Service Act to repeal the prohibition against providing student loans for persons who were required to but have not registered under such Act.
United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1983
National Heritage Resource Act of 1983 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow creators of artistic properties an income tax deduction for the current fair market value of literary, musical, or artistic compositions which they contribute to charitable organizations. Requires: (1) that the artistic property be created by the taxpayer at least one year prior to the time of such contribution; (2) that the fair market value of such property be appraised within one year of the date of contribution; and (3) that the donee of such property show that the use of the property will be related to the charitable purpose or function of his organization. Denies a fair market value deduction for contributions of any letter, memorandum, or similar property produced by a Federal or State employee which arose out of the performance of such employee's official duties. Exempts such fair market value deduction from the application of the minimum tax.
United States · United States Congress · 3 February 1983
United States Academy of Peace and Conflict Resolution Act - Establishes the United States Academy of Peace and Conflict Resolutions as an independent nonprofit corporation. Permits the Academy to use "United States" or "U.S." or any other reference to the United States Government or Nation in its title, corporate seal, emblem, or other mark of recognition in any fiscal year only if there is an authorization of appropriations for the Academy for such fiscal year provided by law. Sets forth the powers and the duties of the Academy, including establishment of an Endowment of the United States Academy of Peace and Conflict Resolution. Authorizes the Academy to: (1) conduct research on the causes of war and the elements of peace; (2) provide peace education and research programs; (3) conduct training in conflict resolution; (4) disseminate information on peace learning; (5) establish a Center for International Peace; and (6) establish a United States Medal of Peace and other medals or honors. Authorizes the Academy to refuse research requests of Federal agencies for reason of cost or of inappropriateness to the Agency's purpose or independence. Prohibits the Academy from undertaking to influence the passage or defeat of any Federal, State, local, or United Nations legislation, but permits Academy personnel to testify or make other appropriate communication when formally requested to do so by a legislative body, committee, or member thereof. Provides for appointment of members of the Academy's Board of Directors. Sets forth grounds for removal of Board members. Permits Board meetings to be closed only in exceptional circumstances. Sets forth provisions for Academy officers, employees, procedures, and records. Provides that, with certain exceptions, the Academy shall not be considered a department, agency, or instrumentality of the Government. Prohibits the use of any political test or political qualification with respect to personnel actions of the Academy or financial assistance by the Academy. Authorizes appropriations in a specified amount for an Academy principal office capitalization fund. Authorizes appropriations in specified amounts for FY 1984 and 1985 for Academy programs and administration. Requires that Academy expenses in connection with the United States Medal of Peace or the accompanying cash award be paid out of the private funds of the Endowment. Restricts contract-making authority under this Act to the extent and amounts provided in appropriation Acts. Directs the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Academy to report to the Congress and the President, beginning two years after the enactment of this Act and at two-year intervals thereafter. Directs the President to transmit to the Congress the recommendations of the appropriate Federal agencies with respect to such report and to any legislation concerning the Academy. Requires the appropriate congressional committees to hold hearings to review such report and recommendations.
United States · United States Congress · 3 February 1983
Equal Access to Voting Rights Act - Directs the Attorney General to promulgate guidelines to assure that registration and polling place facilities used for Federal elections are readily accessible to handicapped and elderly individuals. Sets forth minimum requirements for these guidelines. Requires States to make available registration and voting aids for handicapped and elderly individuals in Federal elections. Authorizes the Attorney General and aggrieved persons to bring actions in Federal court to enforce this Act.
![Official portrait of Rep. Gray, William H., III [D-PA-2]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/g000402_200.jpg)