United States · United States Congress · 18 September 1975
Financial Disclosure Act - Requires candidates for Federal office, Members of the Congress, each officer and employee of the Federal Government who is compensated at a rate in excess of $25,000 per year, Federal employees performing the duties of a GS-16 or higher, members of the Uniformed Services in the grade 0-6 or higher, the President, and the Vice President to file annually with the Comptroller General, a report containing a full and complete statement of: (1) the amount and source of each item of income, each gift or aggregate of gifts from one source (other than gifts received from his spouse or any member of his immediate family) received by him, by and his spouse jointly, by his spouse, or by his dependents, during the preceding calendar year which exceeds $100 in amount or value, including any fee or other honorarium received by him for or in connection with the preparation or delivery of any speech or address, attendance at any convention or other assembly of individuals, or the preparation of any article or other compensation for publication, and the monetary value of subsistence, entertainment, travel, and other facilities received by him in kind; (2) the identity of each asset held by him, by him and his spouse jointly, by his spouse, or by his dependents, which has a value in excess of $1,000, and the amount of each liability owed by him or by him and his spouse jointl, together with the amount of each liability which is owned with respect to any financial interest which is under his constructive control, which is in excess of $1,000 as of the close of the preceding calendar year; (3) any transactions in securities of any business entity by him or by him and his spouse jointly, or by any person acting on his behalf or pursuant to his direction during the preceding calendar year if the aggregate amount involved in transactions in the securities of such business entity exceeds $1,000 during such year; (4) all transactions in commodities by him, or by him and his spouse jointly, or by any person acting on his behalf or pursuant to his direction during the preceding calendar year if the aggregate amount involved in such transactions exceeds $1,000; and (5) any purchase or sale of real property or any interest therein by him, or by him and his spouse jointly, or by any person acting on his behalf or pursuant to his direction, during the preceding calendar year if the value of property involved in such purchase or sale exceeds $1,000. Defines the terms used in this Act. Sets forth penalties for violations of the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 17 September 1975
Arts, Humanities, and Cultural Affairs Act - Title I: Arts and Humanities - Authorizes, under the National Foundation on the Arts and Humanities Act, the chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts to make grants to the American Tilan Institute. Authorizes the chairman of the National Endowment for the Humanities to establish a grants-in-aid program for existing and developing State humanities programs in States which meet the standards set forth in such Act. Sets forth the requirements for applications by states for such grants. Sets forth the policy by which funds will be allotted to States under this Act. Establishes the minimum amount which will be allotted at $100,000. Provides for 100 percent funding of State programs in specified cases, and for grants to multi-State groups. Directs the chairman to withhold further grants or require repayment of grants already made when noncompliance by the State agency receiving such grants is discovered. Authorizes, under the National Foundation on the Arts and Humanities Act, the appropriation of $113,500,000 for fiscal year 1977 and 1978 and such sums as may be necessary for fiscal years 1979 and 1980 for programs of the National Endowment for the Arts. Authorizes, under such Act, identical appropriations for programs of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Authorizes, under such Act, the appropriation of up to $25,000,000 per year each to the National Endowment for the Arts, and the National Endowment for the Humanities for each year through fiscal year 1980, for the purpose of matching donations made to each endowment. Title II: Museum Services and Exhibitions - Museum Services Act - Establishes an Institute for the Improvement of Museum Services within the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare. Provides that such Institute shall consist of the Director of the Institute and a National Museum Services Board. States that the Board shall consist of fifteen members appointed by the President by and with the consent of the Senate and eight ex officio members as set forth in this Act. Sets forth the terms of office of the members of the Board. Provides that the Board shall have the responsibility for the general policies with respect to the powers, duties, and authorities vested in the Institute under this Act. States that the Director shall make available to the Board such information and assistance as may be necessary to enable the Board to carry out its functions. Provides that the Director shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, and shall serve at the pleasure of the President and perform such duties and exercise such powers as the Board may prescribe. States that there shall be a Deputy Director who shall be appointed by the President and serve at his pleasure. States that the Deputy Director shall serve as Director during the absence or disability of the Director, or in the event of a vacancy in the office of Director. Sets forth a list of activities for which the Director, subject to the approval of the Board, is authorized to make grants to museums to increase and improve museum services. Provides that grants under this Act may not exceed 75 percent of the cost of the program for which the grant is made. Gives the Institute the authority to accept in the name of the United States grants, gifts, or bequests of money for immediate disbursement in furtherance of the functions of the Institute. Authorizes to be appropriated $25,000,000 for fiscal year 1975, $30,000,000 for each of the succeeding fiscal years ending prior to October 2, 1978. Authorizes to be appropriated an amount equal to the amount contributed to the Institute under this Act during such time period.
United States · United States Congress · 11 September 1975
Social Security Rights Act - Requires that procedures be established for the expedited replacement of undelivered benefit checks. Requires that decisions (and reconsiderations) on initial benefit claims be made within 90 days. Requires that payment of benefits on approved claims begin no later than the day regularly fixed for delivery of benefits checks in the second month following the month in which the claim was approved.
United States · United States Congress · 9 September 1975
Authorizes the people of the Virgin Islands to organize a government pursuant to a constitution of their own adoption under the provisions of this Act. Authorizes the Legislature of the Virgin Islands to call a constitutional convention to draft a constitution for the people of the Virgin Islands. Requires that such constitution shall include a bill of rights. Provides for eligibility for membership at the convention. Establishes voting procedures for the approval or disapproval of such constitution as may be drafted by the convention. Provides that upon taking effect, a constitution drafted and approved under this Act shall supersede such provisions of the Organic Act of the Virgin Islands as may be inconsistent with such constitution.
United States · United States Congress · 5 September 1975
Extends coverage under the flood insurance program of the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 to include losses from landslides as well as losses from mudslides, where such landslides are caused by underground lubrication resulting from high-intensity precipitation.
United States · United States Congress · 5 September 1975
Expresses the sense of Congress that the officers and administrators of the various governmental institutions supported by public moneys should take steps to remove from facilities under their control all architectual barriers to the handicapped. Directs that funds for such efforts be taken from their discretionary funds.
United States · United States Congress · 3 September 1975
Directs the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating to take such action as may be necessary and appropriate to insure that female individuals shall be eligible for appointment and admission to the Coast Guard Academy on the same basis as male individuals.
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1975
Requires that States having agreements entered into under the Federal Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance program of the Social Security Act continue to make social security payments and reports on a calendar-quarter basis.
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1975
Franchising Practices Reform Act - Requires a franchisor to notify a franchisee at least ninety days in advance of the franchisor's intention to terminate the franchise, and the franchisor's reasons for terminating. Prohibits a franchisor from cancelling a franchise unless the franchisor has acted in bad faith, or has violated a material requirement of the franchise, or the franchisor is effecting a market area withdrawal. Prohibits a franchisor from failing to renew a franchise except for the reasons stated above, or the franchisor has a legitmate business reason for failing to renew. Makes any franchisor that has violated the requirements of this Act civilly liable to the aggrieved franchisee.
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1975
Emergency Medical Services Systems Act Amendments - Extends through fiscal year 1979, under the Emergency Medical Services Systems Act, the prohibition of grants or contracts made by the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, for the modernization of emergency facilities to States, units of local government, or other public service entities which did not receive a grant or contract for the same purpose the preceeding fiscal year. Authorizes the Secretary to make a second grant to or enter into a second contract with an eligible entity for the expansion and improvement of emergency medical services. Includes planning costs in the coverage of grants and contracts for expansion and improvement of emergency medical services. States that emphasis in awarding grants or contracts for research relating to the delivery of emergency medical services in rural areas should be placed on identifying and using techniques and methods to apply the results of such research. Authorizes recipients of grants or contracts for the: (1) establishment and operation; or (2) expansion and improvement of an emergency medical services system to use funds under such grant or contract for a training program related to such a system. Authorizes through fiscal year 1977 appropriations for the making of payments pursuant to grants and contracts for feasibility studies and planning in connection with the establishment and operation of an emergency medical services system. Authorizes through fiscal year 1980 appropriations for grants and contracts for the establishment and operation, and planning and improvement of such emergency systems. Directs that at least 20 percent of the funds appropriated be made available for feasibility studies and planning from 15 percent to 10 percent of the funds appropriated. Authorizes through fiscal year 1978 appropriations for the making of payments pursuant to grants and contracts for the support of research in emergency medical techniques, methods, devices, and delivery. Defines the duties of the unit established within the Department of Health, Education and Welfare for the administration of grants made and contracts entered into under the Emergency Medical Services Act. Directs the Secretary to make grants and enter into contracts with schools of medicine, dentistry, osteopathy, and nursing and similar institutions to assist programs of training in the field of emergency medical service. Authorizes through fiscal year 1980 appropriations for the making of payments pursuant to grants and contracts for such training programs. Directs the Secretary to conduct two studies in areas related to the improvement of emergency medical services.
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1975
National Nutrition Education Act - Declares that it is the purpose of this Act to encourage the provisions of nutrition education programs in the classroom and lunchrooms of elementary and secondary schools by establishing a system of grants for teacher training, pilot and demonstration projects, and the development of comprehensive nutrition education programs. Directs the Commissioner of Education to make grants to State education agencies and institutions of higher education for teacher training with respect to the provision of nutrition education programs in schools. Authorizes specified appropriations for such grants for fiscal years 1976, 1977, and 1978. Authorizes the Commissioner to make grants to State and local education agencies, institutions of higher education, and other public or private nonprofit education or research agencies, institutions, or organizations to pay the cost of pilot demonstration projects in elementary and secondary schools with respect to nutrition education and nutrition-related problems. Authorizes special appropriations for such grants for fiscal years 1976, 1977, and 1978. Authorizes the Commissioner to make grants to State education agencies to pay the Federal share of the cost of developing and carrying out nutrition education programs in elementary and secondary schools within each State. Authorizes specified appropriations for such grants for fiscal years 1976, 1977 and 1978. Sets forth application requirements for the grants authorized to be made by this Act. Establishes within the Office of Education of the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare a National Nutrition Education Resource Center. Makes it the function of the Center to provide training and information relating to nutrition education. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary for the center not to exceed $2,000,000 in any fiscal year.
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1975
Lobbying Equalization Act - Revises the Internal Revenue Code to permit tax exempt organizations to engage in lobbying without losing their tax exempt status.
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1975
Visit U.S.A. Bicentennial Anniversary Act - Provides for the waiver of passport and visa requirements of nonimmgrant foreign nationals as a condition of entry into the United States, under the Immigration and Nationality Act, during calendar year 1976.
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1975
Environmental Health Act - Provides that in any proceeding requesting equitable relief pursuant to any statute administered by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, or instituted at the request of the Administrator, other than a suit for review of a Federal administrative action, a showing by a party that any person is engaging in a course of conduct of discharging, emitting, or manufacturing any substance, where such conduct presents a reasonable risk of being a threat to public health, shall give rise to a rebuttable presumption that a threat to public health exists warranting the granting of such equitable relief as is deemed appropriate to protect the public against such threat. Provides that where a showing is made giving rise to a presumption pursuant to this Act, the person engaging in such course of conduct of discharging, emitting, or manufacturing shall have the burden of proving: (1) that in fact no threat to public health exists or that the risk of any such threat is negligible; or (2) that the physical and economic considerations in favor of such course of conduct outweigh all costs incident to the conduct, including any possible threat to public health.
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1975
Expresses the House of Representatives strong disapproval of efforts to expel Israel from the United Nations. States that if Israel is expelled the United States should reassess its relationship with the United Nations General Assembly. Provides that such reassessment shall include possible withdrawal from that body.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1975
Energy Industry Deconcentration Act - Prohibits any corporation or association from: (1) controlling deposits of more than one type of energy-producing mineral, after December 31, 1979 and (2) engaging engaging in more than one aspect of the petroleum and natural gas industry after December 31, 1979. Requires corporations or associations which would be in violation of this Act except for the effective date to submit plans for compliance to the Federal Trade Commission before January 1, 1978. Prohibits any individual from serving as a director of more than one company engaged in every resource production, refining, transportation, or marketing.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1975
Revises the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to allocate to the coastal States 37 1/2 percent of all rentals and royalties paid in connection with any lease on the Outer Continental Shelf. Exempts from such requirement funds credited to the Land and Water Conservation Fund. States that the proportion of the total amount set aside which shall be distributed to any coastal State shall bear the same ratio to such total amount as the amount of production sold from deposits adjacent to such coastal State.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1975
Establishes a Foreign Service grievance procedure. States that it is the purpose of such procedure to provide officers and employees of the Service and their survivors with a means to insure the fullest measure of due process and to provide for the just consideration and resolution of grievances of such officers employees and survivors. Provides that the Secretary shall implement this Act by promulgating regulations to provide for the consideration and resolution of grievances by a board. Sets forth provisions which such regulations shall include. Provides for judicial review of regulations promulgated by the Secretary and of the actions of the Secretary or the board pursuant to such regulations.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1975
Grain Export Control Act - Requires prior approval by the Secretary of Agriculture of the export of wheat, corn, soybeans, or any other grain in excess of one hundred thousand tons.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1975
Congressional Public Financing Act - Adds a new subtitle to the Internal Revenue Code: the Congressional Election Campaign Fund Act. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to maintain in the Presidential Election Campaign Fund a separate account to be known as the Congressional Election Payment Account. Directs the Secretary to deposit into the Congressional Election Payment Account that portion of the annual amounts designated by taxpayers on their income tax returns that equals the excess above 25 percent of the total amount made available in the last Presidential election. Authorizes the Federal Election Commission to conduct an examination and audit of the campaign contributions raised for purposes of obtaining matching funds and the qualified campaign expenditures made by all candidates for Federal office and official political party committees who received payments under this Act. Provides criminal penalties for violations of this Act. Provides for payments of funds in amounts matching the contributions received by candidates for the office of U.S. Senator or U.S. Representative. Imposes limitations on the amounts of such funds to be disbursed to any individual candidate, and restricts the uses to which such matching funds may be put.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1975
Declares that a greater unity of the Atlantic Community would strengthen the common defense, assure more adequate energy resources and improve commerce. Establishes an eighteen-member delegation authorized to organize and participate in a convention attended by delegations from North Atlantic Treaty parliamentary democracies. States that the convention shall explore the possibility of agreement on the means to transform the relationship of such nations into a more effective unity based on federal principles. Provides for appointment of delegates to the convention. Allows the delegation to maintain a staff. Authorizes the appropriation of $200,000 to carry out the purposes of this joint resolution.
United States · United States Congress · 29 July 1975
Increases the excise tax under the Internal Revenue Code on small and large cigarettes, providing that such increased taxes collected after June 30, 1976, shall be appropriated to the National Cancer Research Fund established by this Act in the Treasury in specified amounts for fiscal years 1977 and 1978.
United States · United States Congress · 25 July 1975
Provides that the Commodity Credit Corporation shall be the seller or marketing agent for all export sales of specified raw agricultural commodities. Authorizes the Corporation to acquire commodities on the domestic market to meet the objectives of this Act. Allows the Corporation to act upon the request of a producer or any other person as an exclusive marketing agent. States that the owner of the commodity may stipulate the minimum price below which the commodity can not be sold. Requires that a record of all terms and conditions of each export scale be made available for public inspection.
United States · United States Congress · 25 July 1975
Establishes within the Federal Energy Office of the President an Emergency Coal Administration, to be administered by the Administrator of the Federal Energy Office. Authorizes the Administrator to take such action as may be necessary to insure the maximum utilization of coal so long as the present energy crisis exists. Sets forth the powers and authority of the Administrator under the provisions of this Act, including the following: (1) to set goals for the production and conversion of coal into energy; (2) to encourage, assist, and take such steps as shall provide for increased production, transportation, and conversion of coal into energy; (3) to issue orders which shall constitute a prior claim upon producers of materials and supplies essential to the increased production, transportation, and utilization of coal; (4) to afford necessary, reasonable, and proper financial assistance to persons, firms, or corporations converting to the use of coal as a source of energy; and (5) to enter into contracts with coal producers in order to increase the production of coal in the United States. Authorizes the Administrator to establish a program for underwriting such financial aid as he deems necessary to assure the continuance of a viable production, transportation, conversion, and utilization segment of the coal industry. Requires the Administrator to minimize the pollution of the air incident to the burning of coal by rendering all necessary and proper financial assistance to those producing, transporting, or using coal to enable them to obtain and use the best available methods and equipment for minimizing pollution and environmental damage. Permits the Administrator to seek a certificate of compliance from the Environmental Protection Agency with regard to any undertaking to increase the utilization of coal. Empowers the Administrator to engage in research and development projects which will increase the utilization of coal as an energy source. Grants the Administrator the power to prohibit the export of coal. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be ncesssary to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 25 July 1975
Interfuel Competition Act - Provides that it shall be unlawful for any integrated oil company to acquire any coal, oil shale, tar sands, uranium, geothermal steam, and solar energy asset after the enactment of this Act, or to own or control such asset after the expiration of three years after enactment of this Act. Requires that each integrated oil company controlling such assets report such holdings to the Attorney General and Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission. Directs the Attorney General and/or the Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission to commence a civil action for relief whenever this Act shall be violated. Establishes the penalty for violationg this Act as a fine of not to exceed $100,000 or imprisonment not exceeding ten years, or both. Defines the terms used in this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 1975
Farm Tax Equity Act - Limits, under the Internal Revenue Code, deductions with respect to a taxpayer engaged in the business of farming to: (1) the gross income of the business for the taxable year; and (2) in the case of an individual or a bona fide family farm corporation, the higher of $10,000 or the amount of special deductions allowed by this Act, or for any other taxpayer, the amount of special deductions. Prohibits the application of such deductions when the taxpayer uses specified accounting methods. Defines terms used in this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 1975
Increases to $1,000 in all cases the amount of the lump-sum death payment under title II (Old-Age, Survivors', and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act.
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 1975
Comprehensive National Health Care Act - States that the purpose of this Act is to create a system of national health care benefits which will make comprehensive health services available to all residents of the United States. Title I: National Health Care Program - Repeals title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act. Establishes a health care benefits program covering: (1) inpatient hospital services; (2) physicians' services; (3) medical and other health services; (4) home health services; (5) post-hospital extended care services; (6) outpatient drugs and biologicals; (7) routine dental services; (8) developmental vision care services, as defined in regulations, routine eye and vision examinations, and eyeglasses; (9) hearing aids and examinations therefor; (10) routine physical examinations and preventive services as defined in regulations; and (11) ambulance services in specified instances. Limits post hospital extended care services and home health care services coverage to one hundred and eighty days per year. Limits inpatient psychiatric hospital services to 45 days per year. States that every individual, without regard to race, sex, income or age, who is a resident of the United States shall be eligible for health care benefits. Directs the Social Security Administration to establish a separate account for each individual covered by this program. Requires the Social Security Administration to make payments to providers of services under the provisions of this Act. Sets forth conditions and limitations on payment for services. Allows payments for emergency hospital services furnished to individuals entitled to benefits under this Act. States that payment for major surgery and other specialized services may be made only when such services are furnished by specialists. States that payment may not be made for services furnished by a professional practitioner in a hospital which is not a participating provider of services, except for specified outpatient services. Establishes an area health care services board within each geographic area established by the Public Health Service Act. Enumerates regulations governing prospective payment methods under this Act. Requires providers of services to file on agreement with the Administration not to charge individuals for services for which the individual is entitled to have payment made under this Act. Authorizes the Administration to enter into contracts with carriers to perform specified functions. States that payment for services rendered by a physician shall be made in accordance with a single fee schedule applicable throughout the designated geographical area. Establishes a National Health Care Formulary Committee, consisting of the Commissioner of Food and Drugs and three other individuals. Directs the Committee to compile, publish, and make available a National Health Care Formulary containing an alphabetical list of drugs, including specific dosage forms and strengths. Establishes a National Health Care Trust Fund, and a Board of Trustees to govern such fund. Directs the Board to report to Congress annually on the status and operation of the Fund. Defines terms used in this title. Provides criminal penalties for violators of the provisions of this Act. Establishes a Provider Reimbursement Review Board to hold hearings on cost reports filed by providers of services, if such provider is dissatisfied with a final determination of his cost report. States that at such hearing, the provider of services shall have the right to be represented by Counsel. Creates a National Health Care Benefits Advisory Council to provide advice and recommendations for the consideration of the Administration with respect to this title. Directs the Administration to prescribe necessary regulations to carry out the provisions of this title. Imposes a special income tax to finance the health care program. Provides that one-half the amount paid may be taken as an income tax credit. Title II: Independent Social Security Administration - States that the purpose of this title is to strengthen the fiscal and administrative structure of the contributory social security programs. Establishes as an independent agency of the executive branch a Social Security Administration. States that the Administration shall administer the program established by this Act, in addition to the Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance program, and the black lung benefits program. Directs the Administration to study the most effective methods of providing economic security through social insurance. Requires the Administration to submit an annual report to Congress on its activities and recommendations for legislation. Abolishes the positions of Commissioners of Social Security. Title III: Miscellaneous Provisions - Provides that existing employer-employee health benefits plans shall be unaffected by this Act. Makes technical and conforming amendments to the Social Security Act.
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 1975
Revises the Internal Revenue Code to declare that the determination of whether any disability pension payment to an individual is excludable from gross income under a wage continuation plan shall be made without regard to whether or not such individual has reached retirement age.
United States · United States Congress · 23 July 1975
Federal Employees' Political Activities Act - Stipulates that it is the policy of the Congress that Federal employees should be encouraged to fully exercise, to the extent not expressly prohibited by laws, their rights of voluntary participation in the political processes of our Nation. Defines the terms used in this Act. States that an employee may not use his official authority or influence for the purpose of: (1) interfering with the result of any election; (2) intimidating or commanding any individual for the purpose of interfering with the right of any individual to vote as such individual may choose; or (3) influencing the giving or withholding a political contribution. Prohibits specified forms of solicitation by Federal employees. Provides for leave without pay for Federal employees engaging in activities relating to seeking elective offices. Establishes a Board on Political Activities of Federal Employees. Directs the Board to hear and decide cases brought under this Act. Directs the Civil Service Commission to investigate specified reports and allegations of activities prohibited by this Act. Provides penalties for violations of this Act. Directs the Civil Service Commission to conduct a program to inform all employees of their rights of political participation and to educate employees as to prohibited political activities.
United States · United States Congress · 23 July 1975
Interns for Political Leadership Act - Authorizes the Commissioner of Education to make grants, under the Higher Education Act of 1965, to institutions of higher education for an internship program providing students with practical political involvement with elected local, State and congressional officials through internship. Requires that arrangements for such grants provide for coordination between the on-campus educational programs of the persons selected and their activities as interns, with commensurate academic credit given for their work and achievement as interns. Provides that students who are to participate in the internship program shall be selected by the institutions of higher education receiving grants under this Act. Directs the Commissioner, in order to assist him in the selection of institutions of higher education within a State to receive grants, to appoint a National Advisory Council for Political Leadership Interns. Provides that such Council shall be composed of 12 members appointed from among individuals especially qualified to serve on the Council. Directs the Council to advise the Commissioner with respect to the distribution of grants and with respect to other matters of policy. Limits the Federal share of the cost of student stipends under this Act to 50 percent. Authorizes to be appropriated to carry out this Act $5,000,000 for fiscal year 1976, $1,250,000 for the ensuing three-month transition period, and $5,000,000 in each of the two succeeding fiscal years.
United States · United States Congress · 22 July 1975
Truth in Government Act - Expressly makes Federal employees and elected officials criminally liable for knowingly and willfully making false statements in any matter within the jurisdiction of any department or agency of the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 22 July 1975
Establishes in the House of Representatives the permanent Select Committee on Energy which shall not have legislative jurisdiction but which shall have jurisdiction to conduct investigations and studies of the development, application, use, and control of all forms of energy and power in order to establish a coordinated program for the development and control of all forms of such energy and power. Directs the committee to report to the House the results of each investigation together with recommendations.
United States · United States Congress · 22 July 1975
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President should convene the National Security Council in order to devise a viable strategy for combating the smuggling of opium and heroin from Turkey. Directs that a strategy report be submitted to Congress. Calls for the immediate suspension of all foreign assistance to Turkey until that government implements adequate controls to prevent smuggling into the U.S. of Turkish-grown or processed opium and heroin.
United States · United States Congress · 18 July 1975
Provides that the statutory limitations and restrictions on the corporate powers of national banking associations with regard to dealing in and underwriting investment securities shall not apply to all other nongeneral obligations issued or guaranteed by or on behalf of a State or any political subdivision thereof or agency of a State or any political subdivision thereof (except special assessment obligations and industrial revenue bonds) which are at the time eligible for purchase by a national bank for its own account, subject to specified limitations. Requires the Secretary of Commerce to submit an annual report to the Congress showing the extent to which the business of underwriting and dealing in State and local obligations is being carried on by commercial banks as compared with other banking institutions with a view to determining the effect of the amendment made by the first section of this Act on the institutional distribution of such business.
United States · United States Congress · 18 July 1975
Allows a court to grant attorneys' fees to the privailing party, other than a governmental entity, in civil actions to enforce civil or Constitutional rights. Provides that a governmental entity shall be liable for costs and fees the same as a private person.
United States · United States Congress · 18 July 1975
Provides for the recovery of attorneys' fees as a part of costs in civil actions to obtain judicial review of agency action where such action is brought on the grounds that it adversely affects civil or constitutional rights, or consumer or environmental interests. Requires that the party seeking review substantially prevail in order to recover such fees. (Adds 5 U.S.C. 707)
United States · United States Congress · 17 July 1975
Declares that it is the purpose of this Act to provide a source of financial assistance for homeowners and builders so as to enable them to purchase and install solar heating equipment or combined solar heating and cooling equipment, primarily through the small business segment of the economy, in order to substantially reduce energy use. Authorizes the Small Business Administration to make loans to individuals and families owning and occupying one- to four-family residential structures, and to persons engaged in building residential structures of any kind, to assist them in purchasing and installing qualified solar heating or solar heating and cooling equipment (as defined by this Act) in such structures. Specifies the maximum amount, interest rate, and maturity date of such loans. Sets forth loan application requirements. Directs the Energy Research and Development Administration to assist the Small Business Administration in carrying out the provisions of this Act by transmitting technical findings and recommendations and providing information concerning solar heating and cooling equipment to any person upon request.
United States · United States Congress · 17 July 1975
Conservation and Solar Energy - Federal Buildings Act - Declares it to be the finding of Congress that energy conservation practices adopted for the design, construction, and utilization of these facilities will have a beneficial effect on the Nation's overall supply of energy, and the procurement of solar heating and cooling units for use in Federal buildings in connection with demonstrations of solar energy applications on such buildings under this Act should help to create a market for such units generally. States that it is the policy of this Act to insure that energy conservation and solar energy technology be employed in the design and construction of certain Federal facilities as set forth in this Act, and, to the maximum extent feasible, in the design and construction of all other Federal and federally-assisted facilities. Defines terms used in this Act, including the terms "energy use analysis," and "life cycle energy costs". Directs the Administrator of the General Services Administration and the Secretary of Defense to, in consultation with each other, develop, publish, and from time to time update guidelines designed to assure that the most effective and efficient measures for the conservation of energy and the use of solar energy systems are incorporated in: (1) the design, construction, and renovation of Federal and federally assisted buildings; and (2) the procurement of goods and services for such buildings and for other Federal purposes. States that the guidelines developed by the Secretary and the Administrator shall be consistent with each other. Requires the guidelines developed by the Secretary to be applied to all new and existing buildings under his control. Requires the guidelines developed by the Administrator to be applied to all other new and existing buildings, as defined in this Act. Directs all other Federal agencies to comply with the requirements of the applicable guidelines. Requires the Secretary and the Administrator: (1) to submit to Congress an energy use analysis with respect to the construction, acquisition, or leasing of any new building to which guidelines apply; and (2) with respect to existing buildings, to submit an inventory and energy use analysis of all such buildings, setting forth detailed plans for incorporating required improvements. Directs each Federal agency to submit to the Administrator or Secretary a detailed life cycle energy costs analysis of any building to be constructed, acquired, or leased by it for its use. Prohibits the purchase of any major energy using, generating, or conserving equipment by a Federal agency without prior submission of life cycle energy cost analysis. Provides for an increase in the allowable dollar amount of Federal assistance for building construction or major rehabilitation to cover the cost of solar energy equipment or other special energy equipment. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 14 July 1975
Authorizes the Secretary of Labor, under the Occupational Safety and Health Act, to make visits to the work place of any employer, upon the request of the employer, to consult with and advise the employer concerning the obligations of the employer under such Act States that the Secretary shall give priority to small businesses and hazardous workplaces. Stipulates that no consultative visit made under this Act may serve as an inspection or investigation as otherwise provided for by the Occupational Safety and Health Act, except: (1) in the case of an employer who fails to eliminate a danger disclosed during such a vist; or (2) if conditions are found during such a vist which indicate the probability that death or serious harm could result to employees therefrom, the Secretary may notify the employer of such conditions and afford him a reasonable time to eliminate such conditions. Prohibits the transmission of information obtained during a consultative visit to representatives of the Secretary engaged in enforcement. Directs the Secretary to establish education programs to inform employers and employees of the hazards in particular industries. Authorizes the appropriation of funds through fiscal year 1978 for the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 14 July 1975
Provides that concerted activities on the part of labor organizations or laborers employed in the construction business shall be unfair labor practices within the meaning of the National Labor Relations Act when directed at any of several employers on a construction site only if such acts would otherwise be unfair labor practices within the meaning of the Act. States that nothing in such provison shall be construed: (1) to permit any conduct which was previously an unfair labor practice; or (2) to permit any attempt by a labor organization to require an employer to recognize another labor organization if another is the lawfully recognized employee representative. Requires that ten days' notice of intent to strike be given to all unions, the employer, the general contractor, to the Collective Bargaining Committee in construction, and to any labor organization of which the striking organization is an affiliate. Requires ten days' notice to be given to the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service of intent to strike a military installation engaged in specified activities.
United States · United States Congress · 11 July 1975
Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to establish an outreach program under title XVI (Grants to the States for Aged, Blind, and Disabled) of the Social Security Act to assure that potentially eligible recipients of supplemental security income benefits will be fully informed of the availability of such benefits and the steps to be taken in obtaining them. Authorizes necessary appropriations to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 11 July 1975
Declares it to be the policy of the United States and the purposes of this Act to make State and local government budget-related actions more consistent with Federal government efforts to stimulate national economic recovery; to enhance the stimulative effect of a Federal government income tax reduction; and to enhance the job-creation impact of Federal govenment public service employment programs. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to make emergency support grants to States and to local governments to coordinate budget-related actions by such governments with Federal government efforts to stimulate economic recovery. Authorizes to be appropriated for the purpose of making such grants $500,000,000, plus such additional sums as are warranted according to the formula set forth in this Act for the twelve calendar quarters following any calender quarter during which the seasonally adjusted national unemployment exceeds six percent. States that no appropriations are authorized for grants for any calender quarter if the national unemployment rate did not exceed six percent during the most recent calendar quarter which ended three months before the beginning of such calendar quarter. Provides that the Secretary of the Treasury shall reserve one-third of the authorized funds for distribution to State governments and two-thirds of such funds to local governments. Directs the allocation of assistance to State governments. States that State allocations would be made two-thirds on the basis of unemployment and one-third on the basis of its adjusted taxes. States that in each case, the particular State's unemployment (in numbers) and its taxes raised would be compared to national totals with the unemployment percentage weighted double. Provides for allocations to local governments which would be made according to the same formula as for State governments: two parts unemployment and one part adjusted taxes raised. States that the Secretary shall allocate funds for the purpose of making emergency support grants to each identifiable local government. Specifies that grants under this program should be used for the maintenance of basic services ordinarily provided by the State and local governments and that State and local governments shall not use funds received under this Act for the acquisition of supplies and materials or for construction unless essential to maintian basic services. Establishes an application procedure for State governments and identifiable local governments eligible to receive assistance. Requires that each application shall: (1) include the applying government's program for maintenance, to the extent practicable, of levels of employment and basic services that it customarily provides; (2) in the case of a State government, provide assurance that it will not reduce the total amount of financial assistance, in dollars, which it provides to local governments within its boundaries; (3) provide that necessary fiscal control and fund accounting procedures will be established to assure proper disbursal, and accounting for Federal funds paid to State and local governments under this Act; (4) provide that reasonable reports will be furnished as the Secretary of Treasury may require and that the Secretary of Treasury has access to the records he needs to verify those reports; (5) provide that the nondiscrimination requirements of this legislation will be complied with; (6) provide that the labor standards and wage requirements of this Act will be compiled with; (7) provide that requirements that governments receiving assistance under this Act report tax changes and changes in levels of services provided to the Secretary of the Treasury be complied with; and (8) provide that all funds recived under this Act be expended by the recipient State or local government within 12 months of the time it is received. Provides that applications for payment of funds to other local governments shall be filed by the States. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to approve any application which meets the requirements of this Act within 30 days and not finally disapprove, in whole or in part, any application for an emergency support grant under this Act without first affording the State or local government reasonable notice and an opportunity for a hearing. Requires that no person shall, on the grounds of race, color, national origin, or sex be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program of activity funded in whole or in part with employment made available under this Act. Provides that in any case where the Secretary of the Treasury makes a finding of discrimination by a State or local government and is unable to to achieve compliance within 30 days, he is specifically authorized to defer payment to the discriminating jurisdiction unless compliance is achieved. Requires that laborers and mechanics employed by contractors on all substantial repair renovation construction programs funded under this Act be paid wages at rates not less than those prevailing on similar projects in the locality as determined by the Secretary of Labor under the Davis-Bacon Act. Directs that each State or local government which receives a grant under this Act shall report to the Secretary, within 30 days, any increase or decrease in any tax which it imposes and substantial reductions in employment levels or in services which that jurisdiction provides. Gives the Secretary of the Treasury the authority to make payments from the funds autnorized under this Act. Allows payments to be made in installments in advance or by way of reimbursement, with necessary adjustments on account of overpayments and underpayments. Provides that no funds be paid to any State or local government under this Act for any calendar quarter if the unemployment rate within that juriddiction during the previous calendar quarter was less than six percent. Requires the Secretary of Treasury to withhold funds from any jurisdiction which fails to comply substantially with any of the provisions set forth in the application it submitted for funds under this Act. States that funds will continue to be withheld until the Secretary of Treasury is satisfied that compliance has been achieved. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to report as soon as practical after the end of each calendar quarter on the implementation of the program. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury, after consultation with the Secretary of Labor, to prescribe such rules as may be necessary to carry out this Act. Provides the Secretary of the Treasury with the authority to use services and facilities of any agency of the Federal Government and of any other public agency or institution in accordance with appropriate agreements and to pay for such services either in advance or by way of reimbursement as may be agreed upon.
United States · United States Congress · 11 July 1975
Establishes a select committee in the House of Represenatives to conduct an investigation of the circumstances surrounding the deaths of John F. Kennedy, Robert F. Kennedy, and Martin Luther King, and the attempted assassination of George Wallace. Directs the committee to report to the House as soon as practicable during the present Congress the results of its investigations, together with such recommendations as it deems advisable.
![Official portrait of Rep. Hawkins, Augustus F. [D-CA-29]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/h000367_200.jpg)