United States · United States Congress · 3 May 1973
Emergency Manpower and Defense Workers Assistance Act Title I: Establishment of Defense Workers Manpower Assistance Agency - Authorizes and directs the Secretary of Labor to establish within the Department of Labor an agency, to be known as the Defense Workers Manpower Assistance Agency. Provides that the Agency shall be headed by a Director who shall be appointed by the President and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Sets forth the administrative duties and functions of the Agency. Title II: Economic and Manpower Assistance to Workers - Provides that any adversely affected worker may file an application with the Secretary for one or more of the forms of economic adjustment assistance provided under this title. States that economic adjustment assistance under this title consists of: (1) readjustment allowances; (2) training and counseling benefits; (3) relocation allowances; (4) early retirement benefits; and (5) health benefits. States that the Secretary shall determine whether an applicant is entitled to receive the economic adjustment assistance for which application is made and shall furnish such assistance if the applicant is so entitled. Provides that such determination shall be made as soon as possible after the date on which application is filed but in any event not later than thirty days after such date. Sets forth the qualifying requirements and amount limitations applicable to each of the forms of economic adjustment assistance. Title III: Public Service Employment Opportunities - States that notwithstanding any other provision of law, from sums appropriated pursuant to this Act, the Secretary is authorized to provide financial assistance to any State or locality for public service employment programs for adversely affected workers on terms and conditions as substantially similar to the provisions of the Emergency Employment Act of 1971 as the Secretary determines to be consistent with the purposes of this Act. Title IV: General Provisions - Provides that no person designated by the Secretary as a certifying officer, or disbursing officer, in the absence of gross negligence or intent to defraud the United States, be liable with respect to the payment of any allowance certified by him under this Act. States that whoever makes a false statement of a material fact knowing it to be false, or knowingly fails to disclose a material fact, for the purpose of obtaining or increasing for himself, or for any other person any payment or assistance authorized to be furnished under this Act shall be fined not more than $1,000 or imprisoned for not more than one year, or both. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 3 May 1973
Allows an income tax credit under the Internal Revenue Code for tuition paid by a taxpayer during the taxable year to any private nonprofit elementary or secondary school for the education as a full-time student of any dependent with respect to whom the taxpayer is allowed an income tax exemption under the Internal Revenue Code. Limits the tax credit to 50 percent of the tuition paid by the taxpayer or $200, whichever is less. Provides that any payment which is taken into account in determining the tax credit shall not be treated as an amount paid by the taxpayer for purposes of determining entitlement to a tax deduction. Allows any U.S. taxpayer to commence a proceeding in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, within the three month period beginning on the date of enactment of this Act, to determine whether the provisions of this Act are valid legislation under the U.S. Constitution. (Amends 26 U.S.C. 42)
United States · United States Congress · 3 May 1973
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the Attorney General designate appoint a special prosecutor in any and all criminal actions arising from any illegal activities in the Presidential election of 1972.
United States · United States Congress · 30 April 1973
Rights of Conscience in Abortion Procedures Act - Declares it to be the policy of the Federal Government that religious beliefs or moral convictions regarding the performance of abortions or sterilization procedures shall be respected in the administration of Federal programs. Provides that respect for an individual's right not to participate in abortions contrary to that individual's conscience shall be a requirement for hospital eligibility for Federal financial assistance. Requires the hospital to certify such honoring of the employee's wishes without discrimination.
United States · United States Congress · 19 April 1973
Better Communities Act - Sets forth the findings of Congress and the purpose of this Act. Defines the terms used in the Act. Enumerates the community development activities for which a recipient may utilize shared Federal revenues provided under this Act. Requires the recipient, prior to receiving any funds, to prepare a final statement of community development objectives and projected use of funds for the fiscal year, and to provide the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development with a certification that the recipient is in full compliance with the public requirements and other provisions of this Act. Declares that within 60 days after the close of the fiscal year, the recipient shall make public and shall forward to the Secretary a report of the activities paid for during the fiscal year. Provides formulae for the allocation and distribution of funds. Permits loans to finance any community development activity. Prohibits, on the ground of race, color, national origin, or sex, discrimination under any program or activity funded under this Act, and provides the means of enforcement of this provision. Sets forth the labor standards to be observed. Authorizes the Secretary to terminate any urban renewel project being carrred out as soon as practicable after consultation with the agency carrying out the project and the chief executive of the locality in which it is located, and to effect a financial closeout as if the project had been fully completed on the termination date. Requires records, audits, and reports of revenues shared under this Act. Prohibits a Federal contribution, in addition to shared revenue funds, to recipients for costs incurred in providing relocation payments and assistance for those displaced by community development activities assisted under this Act. Includes remedies for noncompliance with this Act and authorizes the Secretary to prescribe regulations necessary to carry out the purposes and conditions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 19 April 1973
Rights of Conscience in Abortion Procedures Act - Requires Medical institutions to provide a certificate indicating respect for an individual employee's right not to participate in abortions contrary to that individual's conscience as a requirement for hospital eligibility for Federal financial assistance.
United States · United States Congress · 18 April 1973
Allows, under the Internal Revenue Code of 1954, a credit against the individual income tax for expenses paid by the taxpayer for the higher education of any individual, including the taxpayer. Excludes scholarships and fellowship grants, and educational assistance benefits paid by the Veterans' Administration, from such expenses paid for education purposes under this Act. Limits the eligibility for tax credit. Provides that the credit allowed to the taxpayer during the taxable year shall not exceed an amount equal to the sum of: (1) 100 percent of so much of the education expenses as does not exceed $200; (2) 75 percent of so much of such expenses as exceeds $200 but does not exceed $500; and (3) 25 percent of so much of such expenses as exceeds $500 but does not exceed $1,500. Reduces the credit allowable under this Act by an amount equal to 1 percent of the amount by which the taxpayer's adjusted gross income under the code exceeds $19,000.
United States · United States Congress · 18 April 1973
Allows an income tax credit under the Internal Revenue Code for expenses (including tuition, fees, books, and supplies) paid by a taxpayer to any private nonprofit elementary or secondary school for the education of any dependent for whom the taxpayer is allowed an income tax exemption. Limits such credit for a taxpayer to the lesser of 100 percent of expenses or $200. Reduces expenses of higher education of any individual paid during the taxable year by an amout equal to 1 percent of the amount by which the adjusted gross income of the taxpayer exceed $19,000. Provides that any payment which is taken into account in determing the tax credit shall not result in a tax refund.
United States · United States Congress · 16 April 1973
Creates the Military Installation Closing Commission with members from specified Government agencies, the legislative branch, and the private sector. States that the Commission's duties shall be to review and evaluate any decision of the Department of Defense to close any military installation with a view toward determining whether the closing of such installation is in the best interests of national defense, the nation's economy, and military efficiency.
United States · United States Congress · 12 April 1973
National Catastrophic Disaster Insurance Act - Establishes a program of Federal insurance against catastrophic natural disasters and other such disasters utilizing the private insurance industry, particularly risk-sharing pools of insurance companies, while preserving State regulation. Establishes, within the office of the Federal Insurance Administrator in the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the position of Assistant Insurance Administrator for Disaster Insurance, who shall head an office of Federal Disaster Insurance. Authorizes the Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development to: (1) impose and collect an insurance premium surcharge which may not exceed 5 percent and may vary on a statewide regional, country wide basis, or any combination of these; (2) determine and prescribe the terms, conditions, and limitations of the catastrophic disaster insurance program as provided under this Act; (3) purchase reinsurance to the extent deemed appropriate and available; (4) make such disbursements from a special fund established in the U.S. Treasury for operations under this Act in order to reimburse insurance companies in full for claims paid by them for covered losses under the Act's program and for other operating expenses incurred by such companies under the program; and (5) make other disbursements and take other actions necessary to carry out the purposes of the Act. Extends as mandatory the coverage of castatrophic disasters in each property insurance policy now in effect or hereafter issued, other than motor vehicle insurance policies. Establishes in U.S. Treasury a fund to be used by the Secretary for operating and capital expenses under this Act. Forbids coverage of new catastrophic disaster insurance where in violation of State or local laws or where the Secretary determines an area to be of special catastrohpic disaster risk. Prohibits the duplications of benefits where loss is covered by a valid claim paid under catastrophic disaster insurance under this Act. Provides for the termination of the Act's program no later than June 30, 1975 if catastrophic disaster insurance equal or increased coverage is provided by private insurance companies.
United States · United States Congress · 11 April 1973
Makes it the sense of Congress that it shall be the policy of the United States to require repayment of the longstanding debts which are delinquent in nature. Makes it the sense of Congress that the Department of the Treasury submit to the Congress within ninety days of passage of this resolution a list and report on the extent of such indebtedness on the part of foreign nations. Declares that it is the sense of Congress that the Department of the Treasury, through the appropriate departments and agencies, should, immediately after the filing of this report, begin consultations with foreign governments involved for the purpose of making arrangements for the prompt repayment of those longstanding debts which are delinquent.
United States · United States Congress · 10 April 1973
Child Development and Abuse Prevention Act - Provides for the establishment of a National Center on Child Development and Abuse Prevention within the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare to list accidents involving children under 18, to maintain an information clearing house, and to provide training materials on all programs for prevention, identification, and treatment of child abuse. Provides for grants to public and nonprofit private organizations for demonstration programs designed to prevent, identify, and treat child abuse and neglect. Establishes a National Commission on Child Abuse and Neglect to make a study of the effectiveness of existing child abuse and neglect reporting laws and ordinances and to define the proper role of the Federal Government in assisting State and local public and private efforts in the area of child abuse and neglect.
United States · United States Congress · 10 April 1973
Provides for the issuance of a special immigrant visa without fee, under the Immigration and Nationality Act, to any Vietnamese who has been orphaned by abandonment by one or both parents, one of which is a United States citizen.
United States · United States Congress · 9 April 1973
Directs the Joint Study Committee on Budget Control to report to the Congress, by bill or resolution, no later than June 1, 1973, its final recommendations with respect to any matters covered under its jurisdiction. Provides that such report shall include, but shall not be limited to : (1) procedures for improving congressional control of budgetary outlay and receipt totals, including procedures for establishing and maintaining an overall view of each year's budgetary outlays which is fully coordinated with an overall view of the anticipated revenues for that year; (2) procedures for the operation of a limitation on expenditures and net lending commencing with the fiscal year beginning July 1, 1973; and (3) procedures for limiting the authority of the President to impound or otherwise withhold funds authorized and appropriated by the Congress.
United States · United States Congress · 5 April 1973
National Child Abuse Prevention Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, to make grants to specified State agencies for developing and carrying out child abuse and neglect treatment and prevention programs. Sets forth the definitions of the terms used in this Act, including "child abuse", which has such meaning as given under State laws; except that in any case it shall include the physical or mental injury, severe abuse, or maltreatment of a child under the age of eighteen by a person who is responsible for the child's household, occurring under circumstances which indicate that the child's health or welfare is harmed or threatened. Authorizes appropriations of $20,000,000 for each fiscal year, l974 through l976. Specifies the requirements a State child abuse prevention plan must meet to qualify for assistance under this Act, including: (1) that such plan is in effect throughout the State; (2) that a designated State agency shall make reports to the Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare; and (3) that the State has adequate child abuse laws or is initiating a legislative program of such laws. Sets forth the procedures a State must meet for the reporting of child abuse or neglect cases by doctors, schoolteachers, social and welfare workers. Provides that specified actions shall be taken when such report is submitted to the police, social service administration or judical authority, including the forwarding of the report to the appropriate State agency and to the Social and Rehabilitative Service in the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare.
United States · United States Congress · 3 April 1973
Federal-Aid Highway and Public Transportation Act - Provides authorizations for the interstate highway program through fiscal year 1980. Provides for the use of the apportionment factors contained in revised table 5 of the 1972 interstate system cost estimate for the apportionment of interstate system funds for fiscal years 1974, 1975 and 1976. Extends the time for completion of the interstate system until June 30, 1980. Authorizes appropriations out of the highway trust fund for: (1) the Federal-aid primary system in rural areas; (2) the Federal-Aid urban system; (3) forest highways; (4) public lands highways; and (5) Indian reservation roads and bridges. Provides for authorizations for landscapping and scenic enhancement and for the administrative expenses of the beautification program. States that the primary system shall consist of an adequate system of arterial routes in rural areas important to interstate, statewide, or regional travel. Provides that each State designate such a system subject to the approval of the Secretary of Transportation. States that the secondary system shall consist of major collection routes in rural area and designated by each State and appropriate local officials in cooperation with each other subject to the Secretary's approval. Provides that at any time prior to July 1, 1974, upon the joint request of a State and the local governments concerned, the Secretary can withdraw his approval of any controversial interstate segment if he determines it is not essential to the completion of a unified and connected interstate system. Provides that the Secretary must receive assurances that the State does not intend to construct a toll road in the traffic corridor which the removed segment would have served. Requires the Secretary to remove interstate segments from designation as a part of the interstate system where a State has not established a construction schedule within the period of availability of funds authorized to be appropriated for completion of the interstate system and where the secretary has received no assurances that such schedule will be met. Substitutes the total population outside of urbanized areas for the general population in the Federal-aid primary apportionment formula. Provides that no less than 10 percent nor more than 30 percent of the funds apportioned to a State for the primary system will be available to the State for the secondary system. Provides that, in improving Federal-aid urban system projects, traffic operations improvement programs and fringe and corridor parking will be given full consideration in selecting projects on the urban system. Extends from 7 to 10 years the allowable time period within which highway construction must begin following the advance purchase of rights-of-way. Requires the Secretary to make a final inspection of projects completed after the issuance of a certification of State capability and requires an adequate report of the estimated and actual cost of construction. Permits specified ferries to travel in international waters when operating between the islands which comprise Hawaii and when operating solely between Alaska and Washington. Authorizes the Secretary to remove outdoor advertising not in compliance with State law no later than five years after the signs become nonconforming. Authorizes the Secretary to provide standards for the erection along the interstate system of signs providing specific information. Requires the Secretary to cooperate with the States in the development of transportation plans and programs which are formulated with due consideration to their probable effect on the future development of urbanized areas. Extends authorization for the highway construction training program. Authorizes the use of funds apportioned to each State for the Federal-aid urban system to finance the Federal share of the costs of public mass transportation projects. Defines the acceptable types of mass transportation. Provides that sums appropriated for the Federal-aid system shall be available for bicycle transportation, pedestrian walkways and equestrian trails, established on or in conjunction with highways or other appropriate rights-of-way. Permits the financing of research and planning for transportation program.
United States · United States Congress · 2 April 1973
Rights of Conscience in Abortion Procedures Act - Declares it to be the policy of the Federal Government that religious beliefs or moral convictions regarding the performance of abortions or sterilization procedures shall be respected in the administration of Federal programs. Provides that respect for an individual's right not to participate in abortions contrary to that individual's conscience shall be a requirement for hospital eligibility for Federal financial assistance. Requires the hospital to certify such honoring of the employee's wishes without discrimination.
United States · United States Congress · 29 March 1973
Provides, under the Occupational Safety and Health Act, that the Secretary of Labor may visit the workplace of any small employer which has twenty-five or fewer employees for the purpose of affording consultation and advice for such employer on matters, specified in a request by the employer, affecting conditions, structures, machines, apparatus, devices, equipment, or materials in the workplace. Authorizes to be appropriated the sum of $1,000,000 for fiscal year 1973, $1,500,000 for fiscal year 1974 and $1,500,000 for 1975, for the purpose of carrying out the provisions of this Act. (Amends 15 U.S.C. 636)
United States · United States Congress · 29 March 1973
Allows, under the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 a deduction in computing gross income for theft losses sustained by individuals, for specified amounts paid to protect against theft, for medical expenses caused by criminal conduct, and for funeral expenses of victims of crime. (Amends 26 U.S.C. 219)
United States · United States Congress · 29 March 1973
Provides, under the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 for the licensing of, and regulating of, persons in the business of preparing tax returns. Provides for the requirement of a fee of not more than $50 for the issuance of the license under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 29 March 1973
Provides, under the Internal Revenue Code of 1954, that blood donations shall be considered as charitable contributions deductible from gross income in an amount equal to $25 for each pint donated. (Amends 26 U.S.C. 170(i))
United States · United States Congress · 29 March 1973
Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to encourage and assist in the distribution of the "Patient's Bill of Rights" to patients in hospitals and other health care facilities. Enumerates those rights referred to as the "Patient's Bill of Rights".
United States · United States Congress · 27 March 1973
National Diabetes Act - States that it is the purpose of this Act to expand the authority of the National Institute of Arthritis, Metabolism, and Digestive Diseases in order to advance the national attack on diabetes. Authorizes the Director to the National Institute of Arthritis, Metabolism, and Digestive Diseases, with the advice of the National Advisory Council of the Institute, to develop a plan for a national diabetes program. Sets forth general guidelines for such program and provides that the program shall be coordinated with the other programs conducted or administered by the research institutes of the National Institure of Health. Provides that the plan required to be developed by this Act shall be developed within two hundred seventy days after the effective date of this Act. Requires the Director of the Institute at the end of each calender year, to prepare and submit to the President for transmittal to the Congress a report on the activities, progress and accomplishments under the progrom during the preceding year and a plan for the program for the succeding five-year period. to establish programs as necessary in cooperation with other Federal health agencies, state, local and regional public health agencies, and nonprofit private health agencies, in the prevention, control diagnosis and treatment of diabetes, appropriately emphasizing the prevention, control, diagnosis and treatment of such diseases in children. Authorizes to be appropriated $25,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1974, $35,000,000 for fiscal year ending June 30, 1975, and $45,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1976, for the purpose of establishing such programs. States that the Director of the National Institute of Arthritis, Metabolism, and Digestive Diseases may provide for the development of not less that fifteen centers for basic and clinical research into, training in, and demonstration of advanced diagnostic, prevention and treatment methods for diabetes prevention. States that support of such a center may be for a period of not to exceed five years and may be extended by the Director of the National Institute of Arthritis, Metabolism, and Digestive Diseases for additional periods of not more than five years each, after review of the operations of the centers by a scientific review group established by the Director. Establishes an Interagency Technical Committee on Diabetes which shall be responsible for coordinating those aspects of all Federal Health Programs and activities relating to diabetes.
United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1973
Health Programs Extension Act - Title I: Amendments to Public Health Service Act - Extends appropriations through fiscal year 1974 for the following programs under the Public Health Service Act: (1) health services research and development, (2) national health surveys and studies, (3) public health training, (4) migrant health (5) comprehensive health planning and services (6) assistance to medical libraries (7) Hill-Burton programs for construction of medical library facilities (8) training in the allied health professions, (9) regional medical programs, and (10) population research and family planning. Title II: Amendments to the Community Mental Health Centers Act - Extends appropriations through fiscal year 1974 for the following programs under the Community Mental Health Centers Act: (1) construction assistance for mental health centers, (2) staffing assistance for mental health centers, (3) alcoholism programs (4) drug abuse programs, (5)consultation services, and (6) mental health of children. Title III: Amendments to the Developmental Disabilities Services and Facilities Construction Act - Extends appropriations through fiscal year 1974 for construction, services, and planning under the Developmental Disabilities Services and Facilities Construction Act. Title IV: Funding Assurances - Extends appropriations through fiscal year 1974 for programs under the Medical Facilities Construction and Modernization Amendment of 1970.
United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1973
Allows a tax credit under the Internal Revenue Code against the Federal income tax for State and local real property taxes or an equivalent portion of rent paid on their residences by individuals who have attained the age of 65. Provides that where an indivudal has attained the age of 65, there shall be allowed as a credit the amount of real property taxes paid which were imposed by a State or political subdivision on property owned and used by him as a principal residence or rent constituting such taxes as defined by the Internal Revenue Code. Allows payment by the U.S. Treasury to taxpayers to the extent of the difference between the credit and amount of such real property taxes where the tax imposed is less than real property taxes. Provides that the total credit payment for any taxable year shall not exceed $300 (or $150 in case of a single return). Reduces the amount of the credit allowed by the amount that the taxpayer's income exceeds $6,500 (or $3250 in the case of a married person filing a separate return). Directs that the credit be applied collectively in cases of joint ownership. Provides that where the joint return of the husband or wife is filed, the age requirement is met if either person is 65 or older. Apportions the credit allowed to cover only that part of a residence actually used by the taxpayer or that part of a farm not in excess of forty acres. Provides that an individual who is a tenant-stockholder in a cooperative housing corporation shall be treated as owning the house or apartment which he occupies and such person shall be treated as having paid real property taxes equal to the deduction allowable in direct proportion to taxes actually paid on a particular residence where during the taxable year there has been a change in residence. Provides that the term 'rent constituting property taxes" means an amount equal to 25 percent of the rent paid during a taxable year by the taxpayer for the right to occupy his dwelling (exclusive of charges for utilities, services, and furnishings). Reduces the amount of real property taxes paid by an individual by the amount of any refund given on such taxes. Provides that there shall be no assessment of interest charges where there has been an underpayment of taxes by an individual if the amount due is paid within sixty days after the taxpayer receives a refund of real property taxes which caused the underpayment. Specifies that deductions for State and local real property taxes shall not be affected by the credit allowed.
United States · United States Congress · 21 March 1973
Establishes the Select Committee on the Cost and Availability of Food, to be composed of twelve Members of the House of Representatives to be appointed by the Speaker, to conduct a full and complete investigation of all matters affecting, influencing, and pertaining to the cost and availability of food to the American consumer. Requires the committee to report to the House as soon as practicable during the present Congress the results of its investigation and study, together with such findings, conclusions, and recommendations as it deems advisable. Grants the committee various powers to carry out the objectives of this resolution.
United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1973
Rights of Conscience in Abortion Procedures Act - Requires Medical institutions to provide a certificate indicating respect for an individual employee's right not to participate in abortions contrary to that individual's conscience as a requirement for hospital eligibility for Federal financial assistance.
United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1973
Allows an income tax credit under the Internal Revenue Code for tuition paid by a taxpayer during the taxable year to any private nonprofit elementary or secondary school for the education as a full-time student of any dependent with respect to whom the taxpayer is allowed an income tax exemption under the Internal Revenue Code. Limits the tax credit to 50 percent of the tuition paid by the taxpayer or $200, whichever is less. Provides that any payment which is taken into account in determining the tax credit shall not be treated as an amount paid by the taxpayer for purposes of determining entitlement to a tax deduction. Allows any U.S. taxpayer to commence a proceeding in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, within the three month period beginning on the date of enactment of this Act, to determine whether the provisions of this Act are valid legislation under the U.S. Constitution. (Amends 26 U.S.C. 42)
United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1973
Authorizes life imprisonment for persons convicted of illegally dealing in dangerous narcotic drugs in schedule I or II of the Controlled Substances Act. (Amends 21 U.S.C. 845)
United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1973
Rights of Conscience in Abortion Procedures Act - Requires Medical institutions to provide a certificate indicating respect for an individual employee's right not to participate in abortions contrary to that individual's conscience as a requirement for hospital eligibility for Federal financial assistance.
United States · United States Congress · 14 March 1973
Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to enter into agreements under the Fisherman's Protective Act of 1967 with owners of United States commercial fishing vessels for purposes of reimbursing such owners for all actual costs resulting from any damage to, or destruction of, their vessels or equipment as a result of actions of vessels operated by a foreign government or the citizens of a foreign government. Authorizes the Secretary to provide reasonable reimbursement for losses suffered by such vessel owners because of lost or reduced fishing hauls directly resulting from the damage. Authorizes the appropriation of $5,000,000 for reimbursement of claims under this Act. Provides that the provisions of this Act shall apply with respect to damages or destruction of United States vessels occurring on or before January 1, 1971.
United States · United States Congress · 13 March 1973
Provides, under the Internal Revenue Code, that gross income does not include amounts received as compensation for service as a full-time law enforcement officer in the employ of the United States, the District of Columbia, a State or political subdivision thereof, to the extent that the aggregate of such amounts does not exceed $5,000 in the taxable year. (Amends 26 U.S.C. 124)
United States · United States Congress · 13 March 1973
Veterans' Administration Accountability Act - Modifies those powers exercised by the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs with respect to readjustment of the schedule of ratings for the disabilities of veterans. Requires that notice of closing must be given to Congress in writing before the closing of a hospital or domiciliary facility over which the Administrator has direct and exclusive jurisdiction. Prohibits the sale or transfer of Government property under the jurisdiction of the Veterans' Administration unless notice of such transfer or sale is first given to congress.
United States · United States Congress · 8 March 1973
Equal Consumer Credit Act - Prohibits, under the Truth in Lending Act, discrimination on account of sex or marital status against individuals seeking credit in connection with any consumer credit sale. Provides for penalties for any creditor or credit card issuer who discriminates against any individual in a matter prohibited by this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 7 March 1973
Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act - States that it is the purpose of this Act to provide for participation by the Federal Government with State and local governments, private individuals, and other interested persons in a comprehensive program to prevent further damage to the lands, waters, and natural resources of the Nation from unregulated or inadequately regulated surface and underground coal mining operations, to stabilize lands damaged by surface coal mining, to promote an effective continuing conservation land-use and management program for the coal mining industry, and to assist any worker adversely affected by this Act. Provides that this Act shall be administered by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency. Provides that each coal mining operation, the products of which enter interstate commerce, or the operations or products of which indirectly or directly affect interstate commerce, and each operator of such mining operation, shall be subject to this Act. Title I: Environmental Protection Coal Mining Limitation - Provides that no surface coal mining shall hereafter be conducted in any area of the national wildlife refuge system, the national park system, or the national forest system. States that no underground coal mining shall be permitted in any designated wilderness area or in any area under study as a wilderness area. Provides that no operator shall begin or renew any surface coal mining operation in any State on or after the effective date of this Act. States that no operator shall conduct contour surface coal mining operations in any State on and after the effective date of this Act. Provides that any operator who, on the effective date of this Act, is actively carrying out surface coal mining operations, other than contour surface coal mining, may continue to do so as provided in this Act if such operator obtains a permit under this title within six months after such date, and if the Administrator determines that such mining is not in violation of, or will not result in any violation of, any provision of the Clean Air Act, and does not cause, or will not result in, irrevocable or lasting injury to the public health or welfare, or damaging, flooding, or destruction of agricultural land, or dislocation or disturbance of surface or subsurface streams, or destruction of, or damange to, historic values, or destruction or damage to valuable recreational or wildlife areas, or destruction or damage of contiguous areas. States that, within two months after the effective date of this Act, no operator shall engage in surface or underground coal mining operations if he has not applied for a permit under the provisions of this Act. Sets forth the requirements for obtaining such permits. Provides that no permit application shall be approved unless the Administrator finds that the applicable requirements of this title and the rules and regulations adopted thereunder will be observed, and that, in the case of a surface coal mining application, there is probable cause to believe that the stabilization of the area of affected land can be achieved. Provides that a stabilization plan shall accompany every application for a permit for surface coal mining and be made available to the public and be approved in the same manner as a permit. Provides that after a permit application has been approved for surface coal mining but before such a permit is issued, the applicant shall file with the Administrator a bond for performance payable to the United States and conditioned on the operator faithfully performing all the requirements of this Act. Creates in the Department of the Treasury a revolving fund to be known as the Coal Mine Lands Stabilization Fund. Authorizes to be appropriated to the fund initially the sum of $100,000,000, and such other sums as may thereafter be appropriated by the Congress. Provides that moneys in the fund may be expended by the Chief of the Corps of Engineers to acquire by purchase, donation, exchange, or otherwise land which has been affected by surface coal mining operations, has not been fully stabilized prior to the effective date of this Act, and has been abandoned or is declared inactive as determined by him. Authorizes the Chief of the Corps of Engineers to stabilize directly or by contract the lands so acquired. Provides for renewal of licenses issued under this Act. Requires every surface coal mining operator to stabilize the land affected by his mining. Sets forth the required standards for such stabilization. Restricts dumping and the use of explosives on operations authorized under this Act. Requires each mining operator to report to the Administrator on the amount of coal produced, the number of employees, the days worked, the number and location of acres of land mined, number and location of acres of the land stabilized, and a description of the progress made toward the completion of the reclamation plan. Sets forth conditions for the release of bonds filed under this Act. Provides for the periodic inspection of operations authorized under this Act. Allows any person to commence a civil action on his own behalf: (1) against any person, including the United States, and any other governmental instrumentality or agency, who is alleged to be in violation of this title; or (2) against the Administrator and the Chief of the Corps of Engineers where there is alleged a failure of the Administrator or the Chief to perform any act or duty under this title which is not discretionary with the Administrator or the Chief. Provides that no Federal agency may enter into any contract for the procurement of goods, materials, and services with any operator who is convicted of any offense under this title to perform such contract at any coal mining operation at which the violation which gave rise to such conviction occurred. States that no person shall discharge or in any other way discriminate against or cause to be discharged or discriminated against any employee of a surface mine or any authorized representative thereof by reason of the fact that such employee or representative has: (1) notified the Administrator or his authorized representative of any alleged violation or danger, (2) has filed instituted, or caused to be filed, or (2) instituted, any proceeding under this Act, or (3) testified or is about to testify in any proceeding resulting from the administration or enforcement of the provisions of this Act. Authorizes the Attorney General to apply to the appropriate United States district court for injunctions restraining or enforcing compliance with the provisions of this title. Authorizes actions for damages (including attorney fees) by persons injured by violations of this title. Provides for a civil penalty of not to exceed $10,000 for each violation of this title. Prohibits States from enacting mining standards that are less stringent than those established by this Act. Authorizes necessary appropriations to carry out this title. Title II: Assistance to Workers - Provides that payment of a readjustment allowance shall be made to a worker adversely affected by this Act who applies for such allowance for any week of unemployment which begins after the thirtieth day after the date of the enactment of this Act. Provides that such allowance shall be an amount equal to 90 percent of his average weekly wage or to 90 percent of the average weekly manufacturing wage, whichever is greater. Provides for a diminishing of such allowance to the extent that it is supplied through other provisions of law. States that adversely affected workers shall be afforded, where appropriate, the testing, counseling, training, and placement services provided for under any Federal law. Provides for a relocation allowance for any adversely affected worker who is the head of a family and who has been totally separated. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out this title.
United States · United States Congress · 6 March 1973
Provides an additional income tax exemption for a taxpayer supporting a dependent who is mentally retarded. Defines the term "mentally retarded" as used in this Act. (Adds 26 U.S.C. 151(f))
United States · United States Congress · 27 February 1973
Rights of Conscience in Abortion Procedures Act - Requires Medical institutions to provide a certificate indicating respect for an individual employee's right not to participate in abortions contrary to that individual's conscience as a requirement for hospital eligibility for Federal financial assistance.
United States · United States Congress · 27 February 1973
Provides that no changes or readjustments in the schedule for rating disabilities made by the Administrator of Veteans' Affairs shall be effective unless: (1) such proposed damage or readjustment is first submitted to Congress, and (2) neither House of Congress, prior to the expiration of ninety calendar days of continuous session of Congress following the date of submission of the proposed change or readjustment, has adopted a resolution stating in substance that that House does not favor the proposed change or readjustment. (Amends 38 U.S.C. 355)
United States · United States Congress · 27 February 1973
Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to enter into agreements under the Fisherman's Protective Act of 1967 with owners of United States commercial fishing vessels for purposes of reimbursing such owners for all actual costs resulting from any damage to, or destruction of, their vessels or equipment as a result of actions of vessels operated by a foreign government or the citizens of a foreign government. Authorizes the Secretary to provide reasonable reimbursement for losses suffered by such vessel owners because of lost or reduced fishing hauls directly resulting from the damage. Authorizes the appropriation of $5,000,000 for reimbursement of claims under this Act. Provides that the provisions of this Act shall apply with respect to damages or destruction of United States vessels occurring on or before January 1, 1971.
United States · United States Congress · 21 February 1973
Provides for the establishment of an urban national park known as the Lowell Historic Canal District National Cultural Park in the city of Lowell, Massachusetts. Creates the Lowell Historic Canal District Commission. States the functions of the Commission and authorizes appropriations necessary to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 8 February 1973
Establishes a contiguous fishery zone (197 mile limit) beyond the territorial sea of the United States. States that the United States shall exercise the same exclusive rights in respect to fisheries in the zone as it has in its territorial sea, subject to the continuation of traditional fishing by foreign states within this zone as may be recognized by the United States. Authorizes the Secretary of State, in cooperation with the Secretary of the Interior, and in consultation with the affected foreign countries, to determine the extent to which foreign fisheries may be permitted to operate within the zone, including manner, species, and allowable annual catch.
United States · United States Congress · 8 February 1973
Child Development Personnel Training Act - Declares the purpose of this Act to be to respond to the demonstrated need for child development personnel in the 1970's by stimulating the development of sufficient training and educational programs in every State and region of the United States to assure an adequate supply of personnel to meet the staffing requirements of early childhood programs. Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to make grants to, or to enter into contracts with, institutions of higher education, State and local child development agencies, State and local educational agencies, child development programs, private companies and organizations engaged in teacher training, teacher training organizations, national child development organizations, and producers of television programming, for the purpose of establishing, developing, or updating early childhood personnel training programs. Authorizes to be appropriated to carry out this Act $40,000,000 ffor fiscal year 1974, $60,000,000 for fiscal year 1975, and $75,000,000 for each of the succeeding fiscal years ending prior to July 1, 1980.
United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1973
Directs the Secretary of Defense and the Administrator of the General Services Administration to insure the procurement and use by the Federal Government of products manufactrued from recycled materials. Requires the Secretary and Administrator to make an annual report to the Congress with regard to Federal departments and agencies progress in carrying out the objectives of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1973
Provides for the annual authorization of appropriations to the United States Postal Service. Requires such Service to keep the Senate and House Committees on Post Office and Civil Service fully and currently informed with respect to all activities and responsibilities within the jurisdiction of such committees.
United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1973
Act for Freedom of Emigration in East-West Trade - States that after October 15, 1972, products from any nonmarket economy country shall not be eligible to receive most-favored-nation treatment, such country shall not participate in any program of the Government of the United States which extends credits or credit guarantees or investment guarantees, directly or indirectly, and the President of the United States shall not conclude any commercial agreement with any such country during the period beginning with the date on which the President determines that such country: (1) denies its citizens the right or opportunity to emigrate; (2) imposes more than a nominal tax on emigration or on the visas or other documents required for emigration, for any purpose or cause whatsoever; or (3) imposes more than a nominal tax, levy, fine, fee, or other charge on any citizen as a consequence of the desire of such citizen to emigrate to the country of his choice. Provides that, before any of the aforementioned commercial agreements are entered into with any foreign country, the President shall submit to the Congress a report indicating that such country is not in violation of any of the requirements of the preceding paragraph.
![Official portrait of Rep. Heckler, Margaret M. [R-MA-10]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/cbb617b482e186b253684e67ee44091e_200.jpg)