United States · United States Congress · 4 August 1989
Clean Consulting Act of 1989 - Prohibits the recipient of a Federal contract, loan, or cooperative agreement from expending funds appropriated by any Act to pay any person for influencing or attempting to influence: (1) an officer or employee of any agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection with the awarding of any Federal contract, the making of any Federal grant or loan, the entering into of any cooperative agreement, or the extension, continuation, renewal, amendment, or modification of any Federal contract, grant, loan, or cooperative agreement; (2) a Member of Congress to introduce, consider, or otherwise act upon proposed legislation concerning any such Federal action; or (3) an officer or employee of Congress or an employee of a Member of Congress to consider or otherwise act upon any such proposed legislation. Requires each person who requests or receives a Federal contract, grant, loan, or cooperative agreement from an agency or requests or receives from an agency a commitment providing for the United States to insure or guarantee a loan to file with such agency specified written declarations concerning prohibited payments. Requires the head of each agency to compile such declarations and to submit to the Secretary of the Senate and the Clerk of the House a semiannual report containing a compilation of the declarations received. Directs that such report, including the compilation, be available for public inspection. Provides for the imposition of a civil penalty upon any person: (1) who makes an expenditure prohibited by this Act; or (2) who fails to file or amend a declaration required to be filed or amended under this Act. Authorizes the head of an agency to terminate a contract, grant, cooperative agreement, loan, loan insurance, or loan guaranty on the basis of any violation of the requirements of this Act. Requires the Inspector General or comparable official of each agency to submit to the Congress each year an evaluation of the compliance of that agency with, and the effectiveness of, the requirements imposed by this Act. Sets forth exceptions to: (1) the prohibitions of this Act with respect to certain legislative liaison and technical services activities; and (2) reporting requirements with respect to Federal contracts, loans, loan guarantees, or loan insurance not exceeding specified amounts.
United States · United States Congress · 4 August 1989
Expresses sorrow to the family of Lieutenant Colonel William Higgins over his reported murder and to the families of hostages of all nationalities being held in Lebanon. Recognizes that Iran is both directly and indirectly responsible for the captivity of the American hostages and the reported murder of Lt. Col. Higgins. Commends the President and the Secretary of State for doing everything in their power to deter further threats to the American hostages. Urges: (1) the President to express to the Government of Iran that the United States holds Iran responsible for Lt. Col. Higgins' death, the captivity of the remaining hostages, and all Hezbollah-sponsored terrorism; and (2) the President and the Secretary of State to continue exploring all possible channels for freeing the hostages and bringing those responsible for such acts to justice.
United States · United States Congress · 3 August 1989
Adult Literacy and Employability Act of 1989 - Title I: Literacy Coordination - Establishes a Joint Presidential-Congressional Task Force on Adult Literacy. Requires the Task Force to report to the Council for Literacy Coordination established by this Act. Terminates the Task Force six months after its last member is appointed. Authorizes appropriations for the Task Force for FY 1990. Establishes the Cabinet Council for Literacy Coordination (the Council). Requires the Council to report annually to the Congress and the President. Authorizes appropriations for the Council for FY 1990 through 1993. Amends the Department of Education Organization Act to establish in the Department of Education an Office of Adult Literacy, to be administered by a Director of such Office. Requires the Director to: (1) coordinate the administration of literacy programs within the Department; and (2) work with the Cabinet Council for Literacy to coordinate related activities. Establishes the National Center for Adult Literacy as a nonprofit corporation which will not be an agency or establishment of the Federal Government. Divides the Center into a research institute, a technical assistance and training institute, and a policy analysis institute. Requires an annual report to the Congress. Authorizes appropriations for the Center for FY 1990 through 1994. Directs the Chairperson of the Council to make grants to States for a network of State or regional adult literacy resource centers. Authorizes appropriations for such grants for FY 1990 through 1992 and succeeding fiscal years. Requires each State that receives adult literacy assistance under an applicable Federal program to: (1) establish a State advisory board on literacy; and (2) submit a State literacy coordination plan. Requires the State Governor to report annually to the Council. Title II: Investment in Literacy - Amends the Adult Education Act (AEA) to increase and extend through FY 1995 the authorization of appropriations for AEA programs. Revises allotment provisions. Requires limitations on the use of funds to: (1) eliminate a cap on high school equivalency certificate programs; and (2) require that a specified amount be used to support adult education and literacy services provided by community-based organizations and nonprofit volunteer agencies. Includes among projects for which State must expand a portion of their AEA allotments: (1) development and expansion of innovative programs; and (2) support for statewide volunteer technical assistance activities. Eliminates certain maintenance of effort requirements. Authorizes the Chairperson of the Council to make matching challenge grants to State for investment in adult literacy instruction staff training and educational technology. Allows States, for purposes of matching such grants, to reserve specified portions of funds for FY 1990 through 1995 under specified Federal laws. Requires that States receiving such grants make available federally-assisted adult literacy program equipment, facilities, or training services, when not in program use or when surplus capacity exists, to other adult literacy programs (without charge or in certain circumstances at cost). Authorizes appropriations for such challenge grants for FY 1990 and succeeding fiscal years. Establishes a Literacy Leader Training Fund. Directs the Secretary of Education (the Secretary), through the Office of Adult Literacy, to make scholarship grants from the Fund to individuals pursuing careers in adult education, instruction, management, research, or innovation, for education or research to expand their expertise. Authorizes appropriations for such purposes for FY 1990 and succeeding fiscal years. Amends the Library Services and Construction Act (LSCA) to establish a library literacy demonstration program. Directs the Secretary to make grants to State and local public libraries for model innovative programs for delivery of adult literacy services, including development of technology-based centers. Requires that a peer review panel advise on grant criteria and application review, and that an expert in library literacy activities administer such program in the Department of Education. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990 through 1994 for such library literacy demonstration program. Extends through FY 1994 the authorization of appropriations for other LSCA library literacy programs. Title III: Family Literacy - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to direct the Secretary to carry out through the Office of Adult Literacy the Secretary's functions under the Even Start program (which integrates early childhood education and adult education for parents). Title IV: Workplace Literacy - Amends the Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA) to provide for workplace literacy skills and programs. Revises State education coordination and grant programs to provide financial assistance for any State education, labor, or economic development agency (or consortia) to enhance provision of statewide workplace literacy training and education through cooperative agreements between appropriate agencies and organizations. Requires that at least 75 percent of funds for such activities be used to improve program quality by means such as application of learning technology, model program development, and investment in staff training and services targeted at participants lacking workplace skills. Revises general program requirements for the service delivery system to require private industry councils to give priority to participant placements with businesses and industries that have a workplace literacy program or are willing to develop one with other public and private agencies. Makes individuals lacking workplace literacy skills eligible for adult and youth training program services. Requires, beginning in program year 1990, that at least 40 percent of adult program participants in each service delivery area (SDA) be in need of and be offered basic training through an individual workplace literacy plan. Requires assessment and testing of each potential participant's workplace literacy skills and employment skills. Allows participants who have been placed in employment to continue workplace literacy training until they have achieved their goal or for at least two years, whichever is earlier. Requires SDAs to provide such training for such duration to participants who need and would benefit from it. Allows such training to include workplace literacy training and English-as-a-second-language. Requires such activities to be described in an individualized workplace literacy plan for each participant, including goals based on participant needs. Requires that eligible dislocated workers lacking workplace literacy be offered basic skills training for at least a two-year period from the date of entry into the program. Establishes a Workplace Literacy Demonstration Program. Authorizes the Secretary of Labor to make grants for joint ventures of business, industry, or labor (or consortia) cooperating with State, County, or local governments or private industry councils (or consortia) to provide large-scale model development approaches to improving the basic workplace skills of the workforce. Requires the use of such funds for: (1) basic skills training; (2) specific program offerings; (3) assessments of individual and workplace skill needs; (4) program evaluations; and (5) technology-based learning environments. Sets forth matching requirements for grantees. Requires independent evaluation of such programs. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990 through 1995 for such programs.
United States · United States Congress · 3 August 1989
Municipal and Industrial Water Conservation Act of 1989 - Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to establish an Office of Water Conservation to perform specified duties, including: (1) the support of programs to reduce water use and loss in municipal, industrial, commercial, institutional, and residential sectors; (2) the support of dissemination of model water conservation programs; and (3) the promotion of least-cost approaches to water planning and regional approaches to management of water and sewer systems. Calls for intergovernmental coordination in water conservation efforts. Requires the Office to provide technical assistance to States, Indian tribes, utilities, local governments, and others in efforts to implement water conservation policies. Requires regular consultations with major water resources development agencies to target limited resources. Requires the Office to develop a series of model water conservation programs with policy options for States, Indian tribes, water utilities, and municipalities. Allows such water users to request feasibility studies of their current and potential water conservation activities. Allocates the costs of such studies, allowing smaller studies to be conducted at full Federal cost. Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (as amended by the Water Quality Act of 1987) to require the Administrator to make capitalization grants to State water pollution control revolving funds for conducting municipal and industrial water conservation activities which will reduce operating and capital costs of and needs for waste water treatment facilities. Directs the Office to provide, upon request, technical assistance to businesses and institutions for water efficiency campaigns, plumbing system leak-detection, water use audits, and other water conservation measures. Requires the development of model water conservation programs for businesses and institutions and studies, upon request, of their programs. Directs the Administrator to establish a National Clearinghouse on Water Conservation to collect and disseminate, free of charge, information on water conservation technologies and practices. Establishes the Advisory Council on Water Conservation to make recommendations to the Administrator on activities under this Act. Requires the President's Council on Environmental Quality to require, by rulemaking authority, the consideration of water conservation activities in all relevant environmental impact studies conducted under specified provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969. Authorizes appropriations through FY 1994 to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 3 August 1989
Recyclable Consumer Plastics Act of 1989 - Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish within the EPA an Office of Recycling Research and Information. Sets forth the functions of such office, including establishing a mandatory resin content labeling system for sorting plastic for recycling. Requires the Director of the Office to make grants to State, county, and local governments and nonprofit organizations to carry out studies for the purpose of minimizing the environmental impact of post-consumer plastic materials disposal. Sets forth required studies. Requires the Director to submit a report to the Congress describing the findings, conclusions, and recommendations of the studies. Directs the Director to make grants to State, county, and local governments and nonprofit organizations to carry out pilot projects for the purpose of developing and demonstrating technology for the recycling or composting (or both) of municipal solid waste and sewage sludge. Sets forth required types of projects. Requires the Director to submit a report to the Congress describing the findings, conclusions, and recommendations of the projects. Earmarks funds appropriated to the EPA for purposes of making grants and carrying out other activities authorized by this Act. Imposes civil and criminal penalties upon any person who distributes, sells, delivers, or otherwise provides any post-consumer plastic product which is not properly labeled as required by this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 3 August 1989
Toxics Release Prevention Act of 1989 - Amends the Clean Air Act to revise provisions concerning national emissions standards for hazardous air pollutants. Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to include on the list of such pollutants each pollutant listed in committee print 101-XX published by the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works. Directs the Administrator to review and revise such list at least every five years by adding pollutants which present a threat of adverse human health or environmental effects. Provides that no substance or activity regulated under part B of such Act shall be subject to regulation solely due to adverse environmental effects. Permits others to petition for additions to or deletions from such list. Requires the presentation of adequate data concerning health or environmental effects for the addition or deletion of any substance to or from such list. Directs the Administrator to list categories of major sources of hazardous air pollutants and establish a minimum emissions rate for each pollutant emitted by such sources. Limits the minimum annual emissions rate to ten metric tons for any one hazardous air pollutant or 25 metric tons for any combination of such pollutants. Authorizes the Administrator to establish an annual minimum emissions rate of more than ten metric tons for any category and pollutant, provided that a certain health threshold will not be exceeded and no adverse environmental effects will occur. Requires emission standards for such sources to require the maximum degree of reductions that the Administrator determines is achievable. Prohibits emission standards for new sources from being less stringent than those for existing sources in the same category. Permits emissions standards for existing sources to be less stringent than standards for new sources if the Administrator determines that the level of control applicable to new sources is technically or economically infeasible for existing sources. Directs the Administrator to review such standards at least every seven years. Requires the Administrator to establish such standards within: (1) 24 months of this Act's enactment for sources of specified pollutants; and (2) three, five, or ten years of this Act's enactment, based on the quantity of the pollutant and the risk of exposure. Requires standards for all categories to be promulgated within ten years of this Act's enactment. Directs the Administrator, within three years after the initial promulgation of such standards, to evaluate the risks to human health and the environment from emissions remaining after the application of such standards. Requires the revision of such standards if the Administrator determines that such emissions present a significant risk of adverse human health or environmental effects. Directs the Administrator to establish additional emissions regulations for categories of sources of carcinogens or for pollutants for which standards do not reduce emissions to a level at or below the threshold for adverse health effects. Prohibits any consideration of cost, cost-effectiveness, economic, or energy factors or technological feasibility to determine the appropriate level of such standards. Authorizes the Administrator to promulgate design, equipment, work practice, or operational standards for sources under this Act. Requires the Administrator to promulgate such standards when it is infeasible to prescribe or enforce an emission standard for a category of hazardous air pollutants. Permits the use of an alternative means of emission limitations if such alternative achieves a reduction equivalent to that achieved under this Act's requirements. Authorizes the Administrator or a State with an approved program to require owners or operators of facilities which emit hazardous air pollutants to: (1) monitor the presence of such pollutant in the source emissions and ambient air; (2) install and maintain leak detection systems; and (3) keep records and report on the results of such monitoring and leak detection. Requires work practice emissions standards to include, where appropriate, leak prevention, detection, and correction requirements. Sets forth a compliance schedule for emissions standards under this Act. Requires compliance by existing sources within three years of the effective date of such standards. Grants an extension of up to five additional years for such sources under specified conditions. Authorizes the Administrator or a State with an approved program to: (1) exempt existing sources from certain carcinogen emissions standards under specified conditions; and (2) require owners or operators of such sources to conduct research and development on improved technology or management practices as a condition for such temporary exemption or permit renewal. Provides an opportunity for public comment on any proposed exemption. Authorizes the President to exempt any source from emissions standards for up to two years if the technology to implement such standards is unavailable and the operation of such source is required for national security. Authorizes extensions of such exemptions for additional two-year periods. Authorizes the Administrator to exempt any existing major listed source from applicable emissions standards upon a showing that such source has achieved a voluntary emissions reduction of at least 90 percent by December 31, 1992. Waives emissions requirements for sources where emissions are in de minimis amounts and do not pose a risk of adverse human health or environmental effects and where control of such pollutant would require installation of additional and separate control technologies. Makes it unlawful to construct a new source or emit any pollutant subject to standards under this Act, except in compliance with a permit issued by the Administrator or an approved State. Outlines the requirements of the permit program. Limits State permits to five-year periods. Authorizes the issuance of a temporary permit if a source owner or operator certifies that the source will comply with applicable standards. Requires the Administrator or a State, within six months of the issuance of a temporary permit, to review the operations of such source to determine whether a full permit should be issued. Sets forth administrative provisions regarding the issuance of permits. Requires the Administrator to conduct an urban pollution research program to include: (1) ambient monitoring for a range of hazardous air pollutants in a number of urban areas; (2) analysis to characterize the area sources of such pollution and the health risks posed by such pollutants; and (3) consideration of factors which elevate such health risks. Directs States receiving grants for air pollution planning and control which contain a metropolitan area with over 250,000 persons to commence a monitoring program in each such area to measure the ambient concentration of hazardous air pollutants. Requires Governors of such States to report biennially to the Administrator on the results of such monitoring and to make such information available to the public. Requires the Administrator to transmit to the Congress a comprehensive strategy to control hazardous air pollutants released by sources in urban areas. Outlines the requirements of such strategy, including: (1) a schedule for specific actions to reduce emissions of particular hazardous air pollutants; and (2) the identification of research needs in monitoring or pollution control techniques and recommendations for changes in law to further the goals of such strategy. Requires the Administrator to set aside at least ten percent of funds available for grants under this section to support State strategies to reduce risk from source emissions in urban areas. Directs the Administrator, at intervals no later than eight and ten years after this Act's enactment, to report to the Congress on actions taken to reduce risks to public health posed by pollutants from area sources. Requires such report to identify metropolitan areas which continue to experience high risks as the result of emissions from such sources. Directs the Administrator to report to the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works and the House Committee on Energy and Commerce on health impacts of mobile source benzene emissions and fuel and vehicle-based control strategies. Authorizes States to develop and submit to the Administrator for approval programs for the control of emissions of hazardous air pollutants or for the prevention and mitigation of accidental releases of such pollutants. Permits the Administrator's enforcement authorities to be transferred to a State. Requires the Administrator to publish guidance for use in program development. Requires such guidance to include standards for emissions control as well as registration of facilities handling such pollutants in amounts greater than the threshold quantity. Directs the Administrator to establish and maintain an air toxics clearinghouse, control technology center, and risk information center to provide technical assistance and information to States on emissions reduction. Authorizes the Administrator to make grants to States for program development. Requires the Administrator to withdraw approval of a program if it is determined that the State is not administering or enforcing such program. Directs the Administrator to: (1) assess the hazards to public health and the environment resulting from emissions of hydrogen sulfide associated with the extraction of oil and natural gas resources; (2) report the results of such assessment, together with recommendations, to the Congress; and (3) develop and implement a control strategy for such emissions. Requires the Administrator to: (1) review risk assessment methods used by EPA to determine the carcinogenic risks associated with exposure to hazardous air pollutants and source categories; and (2) report the results of such review to the Congress. Directs the Administrator to report annually to the Congress on measures taken by the EPA and States to implement the requirements of this Act. Authorizes appropriations. Requires the Administrator to list at least 50 substances which could be released suddenly in concentrations that may cause adverse human health effects. Directs the Administrator to update such list at least every five years. Requires owners and operators of facilities at which such substances are present in amounts greater than a threshold quantity to conduct hazard assessments for each substance present at the facility. Directs the Administrator to publish guidance for the preparation of such assessments. Requires such assessments to include an identification of potential release sources and exposures and to be biennially updated. Directs the Administrator, to the extent practicable, to: (1) coordinate assessment requirements with requirements imposed by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, including joint promulgation of regulations; and (2) facilitate compliance with such requirements by designing generic hazard identification and assessment tools for owners and operators of hazardous substance facilities. Makes such assessments available to the Administrator, States, the Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board, local emergency planning entities, and, subject to conditions of the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act of 1986, the public. Requires the Administrator to establish a long-term research program to develop and disseminate information on improved hazard assessment methods and techniques. Establishes within EPA a Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board to investigate and report on accidental chemical releases, make recommendations on the safety of chemical production, handling, and storage, and promulgate requirements for the reporting of such releases. Requires the Board to enter into a memorandum of understanding with the National Transportation Safety Board to assure coordination of functions and limit duplication of activities. Authorizes the Board to conduct research and studies with respect to accidental, sudden releases of hazardous substances. Requires the Board to publish a report, along with recommendations, on the use of hazard assessments in preventing and minimizing such releases. Directs the Administrator to set forth reasons for any refusal to implement a recommendation of the Board. Authorizes the Board to hold hearings, secure written reports from any person handling chemicals, and conduct inspections of any facility where an accidental release has occurred. Requires information obtained by the Board, unless it is likely to cause substantial harm to a person's competitive position, to be made available to the public. Directs the Board to report annually to the President and the Congress on accidental releases, recommendations, and priorities for research and investigations. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990 through 1994. Authorizes the Administrator to promulgate release prevention, detection, and correction requirements, including requirements for monitoring, recordkeeping, and design, equipment, and operational practices, for extremely hazardous pollutant facilities. Authorizes the Administrator to secure such relief as may be necessary when determined that an actual or threatened release of an extremely hazardous substance poses an imminent and substantial danger to the public health or welfare or the environment. Permits the Administrator to issue orders to protect human health, welfare, or the environment. Establishes daily penalties for violations of such orders. Directs the Administrator to publish guidance for the coordination of such authority with the relevant authorities under other Federal environmental laws. Requires the President to: (1) review release prevention, mitigation, and response authorities of various Federal agencies and coordinate agency responsibilities to assure efficient implementation of such authorities and identify any deficiencies in authority or resources; and (2) report to the Congress on such activities, along with recommendations for changes in law. Authorizes appropriations. Increases and expands the scope of penalties under the Clean Air Act. Repeals certain provisions of such Act concerning the revision of stationary source regulations.
United States · United States Congress · 3 August 1989
Small Business Employee Child Care Act of 1989 - Title I: Grants for Child Care Services Clearinghouses - Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services (the Secretary) to make grants to eligible States to establish or operate a child care services clearinghouse to carry out specified activities, including activities relating to small businesses and their employees. Sets forth reporting requirements. Authorizes appropriations to carry out this title. Title II: Child Care Grants - Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to eligible community-based nonprofit private child care providers to provide child care services. Sets forth application requirements, including consultation with small businesses and local governments. Sets forth grant limitations. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990 through 1993 to carry out this title. Title III: General Provisions - Sets forth definitions and an effective date for purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 3 August 1989
Declares that the Congress acknowledges and appreciates the commitment, devotion, and sacrifices of present and former military families. Designates November 20, 1989, as National Military Families Recognition Day.
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1989
HUD Equity Restoration Act of 1989 - Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 to authorize the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to impose sanctions, including imposition of civil penalties and revocation of a transfer, for improper conveyance or use of properties under an urban homestead program after January 1, 1981.
United States · United States Congress · 28 July 1989
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that: (1) the Exxon Company should dedicate whatever resources are necessary and pay all expenses required to compensate affected parties expeditiously, mitigate impacts, and complete cleanup of Prince William Sound and other Alaska lands and waters damaged by the Exxon Valdez oilspill; (2) the scope and thoroughness of the cleanup should not be determined by Exxon, but by the U.S. Coast Guard; (3) if the cleanup has not been completed to the Coast Guard's satisfaction by September 15, 1989, Exxon should renew the cleanup in the spring, until the Coast Guard has determined that the cleanup is complete; and (4) Exxon should maintain a contingency force in affected Alaskan communities from September 15, 1989, until full-scale cleanup efforts renew in the spring.
United States · United States Congress · 27 July 1989
Veterans PTSD Treatment and Psychological Readjustment Act of 1989 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to increase the number of: (1) vet centers currently in existence by 20 additional units by December 31, 1991, and by 20 more units by December 31, 1994; and (2) post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) treatment facilities currently in existence by 15 additional units by December 31, 1991, and by 15 more units by December 31, 1994. Requires new vet centers to be established in cities which do not have such centers. Earmarks a specified amount of FY 1990 PTSD funding for contracts with private facilities and therapists for the provision of PTSD treatment. Requires the Secretary, in administering the Health Professionals Educational Assistance Program, to encourage the participation of individuals in the program who desire to become psychiatrists, psychologists, and psychiatric nurses specializing in the treatment of PTSD. Directs the Secretary to establish the Advisory Committee on Readjustment of Veterans. Requires the Secretary to consult with, and seek the advice of, the Committee with respect to: (1) the administration of Department benefits for veterans, particularly Vietnam veterans; (2) reports and studies pertaining to veterans, particularly Vietnam veterans; and (3) the needs of all veterans with respect to compensation, health care, readjustment, outreach, and other benefits and programs administered by the Department. Requires the Committee to report annually to the Secretary pertaining to the social, economic, educational, and psychological readjustment of veterans. Requires the Secretary to submit such reports to the Congress, along with comments and recommendations. Authorizes the Secretary to conduct a pilot program to contract for care and treatment and rehabilitative services in halfway houses, therapeutic communities, psychiatric residential treatment centers, and other community-based treatment facilities for eligible veterans suffering from PTSD. Requires the Chief Medical Director (CMD) to plan, design, and conduct such program. Requires the Secretary to approve the quality and effectiveness of a program operated by a contract facility before allowing veterans to be furnished treatment there under the pilot program. Directs the Secretary to: (1) urge all public and private entities to provide appropriate employment and training opportunities to veterans who have been provided treatment and rehabilitative services under this Act for PTSD and who have been determined to be sufficiently rehabilitated to be employable; and (2) provide all possible assistance to the Secretary of Labor in placing such veterans in such opportunities. Requires the Secretary to provide referral services and advice to veterans discharged or released from active service who are not eligible for PTSD treatment and services. Outlines provisions concerning the transfer of veterans to contract care facilities for treatment of PTSD, requiring such transfer only within 30 days of such member's enlisted tour of duty and only if such person requests such a transfer while on active duty. Limits the period of such care and rehabilitative services to five years after the fiscal year in which the pilot program is initiated. Requires the Secretary to report to the Senate and House Veterans' Affairs Committees on findings and recommendations pertaining to the operation of the pilot program authorized under this Act. Directs the CMD of the Department to conduct a research program relating to the treatment of PTSD.
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 1989
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the Exxon Company USA has not fulfilled its obligation to clean up the oil spill caused by its tanker in Prince William Sound in Alaska, and that Exxon should take appropriate steps to ensure a thorough cleanup, including maintaining monitoring crews during the winter, until the oil spill is completely cleaned up.
United States · United States Congress · 25 July 1989
Fastener Quality Act - Prohibits the offering for sale or sale in commerce of any fastener (screw, nut, bolt, stud, similar threaded device, or washer) unless it is part of a lot which: (1) conforms to standards and specifications represented by the manufacturer; and (2) has been inspected, tested, and certified according to this Act. Sets forth special rules for small lots. Requires manufacturers to have a fastener lot sample inspected by a laboratory accredited under an approved system (including one owned or affiliated with the manufacturer if it is so accredited). Requires the laboratory, upon determination of conformance with the appropriate standards and specifications, to provide the manufacturer certificates with respect to such lot. Directs the Secretary of Commerce, through the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, to establish: (1) a program for the accreditation of laboratories engaged in the inspection and testing of fasteners; (2) conditions under which accreditation by private entities using standards issued by consensus standards organizations shall be deemed to satisfy the accreditation requirements of this Act; and (3) conditions, no less stringent than those for private accrediting entities, under which accreditation of foreign laboratories by their governments shall be deemed to satisfy the requirements of this Act. Limits accreditation to three years. Requires that laboratory accreditation standards issued by one or more consensus standards organizations selected by the Director be used to accredit laboratories under the accreditation program. Authorizes the Director to hire contractors as necessary to carry out the accreditation program. Requires costs for the establishment and operation of the program to be fully reimbursable through fees or other charges for accreditation services. Directs the Secretary to ensure that private accrediting entities and laboratories accredited by such entities or by foreign governments comply with conditions and requirements in this Act. Requires the Director to periodically transmit recommendations to consensus standards organizations. Prohibits any manufacturer from selling any container of fasteners manufactured in the United States unless delivery to the first purchaser is accompanied by a written notification of testing and certification by an accredited laboratory. Prohibits any person from selling any container of fasteners manufactured outside the United States to any importer or end user unless delivery is accompanied by an original certificate from an accredited laboratory. Allows delivery to an importer or private label distributor without the required certificate if: (1) the manufacturer discloses in writing the appropriate standards and specifications; and (2) the importer or private label distributor assumes responsibility in writing for inspection and testing. Requires that, in a sale of any quantity for resale at wholesale, the container be conspicuously marked with the lot number. Requires persons who make significant alterations to a fastener subsequent to manufacture to have the altered fastener inspected and tested unless delivery is accompanied by a disclosure of the alteration and a warning. Requires subsequent disclosures of the alteration in resales. Prohibits commingling of fasteners from different lots in the same container. Requires fastener manufacturers or private label distributors to comply with requirements of a program for recordation of insignias. Directs the Secretary to establish such a program, including regulations to ensure traceability. Sets forth civil remedies, including declaratory and injunctive relief, and criminal penalties, including fines and imprisonment, for violations of this Act. Provides that nothing in this Act shall be construed to: (1) preempt any rights or causes of action that any buyer may have with respect to any seller of fasteners under the law of any State, except insofar as such State law conflicts with this Act; and (2) limit or otherwise affect the authority of any consensus standards organization to establish, modify, or withdraw any standards and specifications under any other law or authority in effect on the date of enactment of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 25 July 1989
Veterans Agent Orange Exposure and Vietnam Service Benefits Act of 1989 - Provides that the disease of chloracne in Vietnam veterans shall be considered to have been service-connected if such disease became manifest to a ten percent or more degree of disability within one year after the last date on which the veteran performed such service in Vietnam. Presumes the following diseases to be service-connected for veterans who performed active service in Vietnam during the Vietnam era, notwithstanding that there is no record of evidence of such disease during the period of such service: (1) non-Hodgkins lymphoma; (2) soft-tissue sarcoma; and (3) melanoma and basal cell carcinoma. Provides a presumption of service-connection in the case of a Vietnam veteran suffering from a disease associated with effects of exposure to certain dioxins or other herbicide agents during such service in Vietnam. Directs the Secretary to prescribe regulations listing a positive association between any disease and the biological effects of exposure to an herbicide agent in Vietnam. Requires the Secretary to update such list continually. Requires the Secretary, in prescribing and revising such list, to obtain by contract the determinations and estimates of a contract scientific organization. Requires such organization to: (1) determine which diseases have any degree of association with the biological effects of exposure to an herbicide agent; and (2) estimate the extent of association between each such disease and each such biological effects. Requires the organization to determine such association specifically with respect to non-Hodgkins lymphoma, each soft-tissue sarcoma, lung cancer, and each other cancer. Outlines contract provisions required in such agreements between the Secretary and the scientific organization, including surveys, evaluations, and periodic determinations. Requires such scientific organization to provide reports to the Secretary and the Senate and House Veterans' Affairs Committees regarding its determinations and evaluations. Requires such organization to determine, in the effect of a positive association, whether there is a reasonable basis for concluding that a Vietnam veteran with the highest level of exposure to that herbicide agent in Vietnam was exposed to such agent under the circumstances necessary for such biological effects. Requires a report from the organization to the Secretary and the veterans' committees when there is no such reasonable basis found. Requires the Secretary to make certain determinations and follow-up reports after receiving such reports from the contract scientific organization, including the issuance of a report to the veterans' committees and the promulgation of positive association regulations, if necessary. Requires benefits to be continued even though a disease is removed from the regulations listing diseases having positive associations. Terminates such contracting authority ten years after the first day of the fiscal year in which a scientific organization transmits its first report to the Secretary. Provides special effective dates. Directs the Secretary to compile and analyze all clinical data that: (1) is obtained by the Department in connection with examinations and treatment of veterans for disabilities related to exposure to certain herbicides or to service in Vietnam; and (2) is likely to be scientifically useful in determining the association, if any, between the disabilities of such veterans and their exposure to such herbicides and other toxic substances. Requires the Secretary to submit an annual report to the veterans' committees concerning such analysis and its results. Directs the Secretary to consult with the Director of the National Institutes of Health Research and Grants Division (NIH) before compiling and analyzing such information. Requires the Director of NIH to review each annual report submitted by the Secretary and transmit to the Secretary an evaluation of the contents of each report. Directs the Secretary to establish and maintain a system for the collection and storage of voluntarily contributed samples of blood and tissue of veterans who performed active service in Vietnam during the Vietnam era. Outlines provisions concerning the security and authorized uses of such specimens, as well as limitations on the acceptance of such samples. Requires the Secretary to consult with the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) to the extent that an agreement has been reached with the NAS serving as the contract scientific organization for the Secretary. Requires the Secretary to consult with the Director of the Medical Follow-up Agency in the event of no agreement with NAS. Directs the Secretary to establish a program to provide for the conduct of studies of the feasibility of conducting additional scientific research on health hazards resulting from: (1) exposure to dioxin; (2) exposure to other toxic agents in herbicides used in support of U.S. and allied military operations in Vietnam during the Vietnam era; and (3) active military, naval, or air service there. Requires the Secretary to report to the veterans' committees on the results of such studies. Requires the Secretary to consult with the NAS before undertaking such studies and requires the NAS, to review such studies and report recommendations to the Secretary and the veterans' committees, to the extent provided under any agreement between the Secretary and NAS. Amends the Veterans' Benefits Improvement Act of 1988 to require the Secretary to annually furnish updated information to veterans listed in the Department of Veterans Affairs' Agent Orange Registry on health risks resulting from exposure to dioxin or other toxic agents in herbicides as a result of service in Vietnam during the Vietnam era. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to report to the veterans' committees on the research being conducted to develop treatments for psychological absorption of dioxin and other toxic agents used in herbicides by the United States in Vietnam, including research relating to exposure to dioxin and other toxic agents outside Vietnam. Extends through December 31, 2000, the eligibility for hospital and nursing home care for veterans exposed to toxic substances in Vietnam. Amends the Veterans' Benefits Improvement Act of 1988 to authorize direct consultation between the Ranch Hand Advisory Committee and Department of the Air Force scientists conducting the Ranch Hand Study (a study of the long-term health effects of exposure to phenoxy herbicides and contaminants). Requires the preparation and submission of annual reports and a final report in connection with such study.
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 1989
Flag Protection Act of 1989 - Amends the Federal criminal code to eliminate knowingly casting contempt on the U.S. flag as an element of desecration of the flag. Provides for the expedited review by the Supreme Court of constitutional issues arising under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 1989
Designates the week of October 22 through October 29, 1989, as National Red Ribbon Week. Recognizes and commends the hard work and dedication of certain individuals and organizations and urges activities that support community and alcohol education during such week. Encourages Americans to wear or display red ribbons during such Week to present and symbolize their commitment to a healthy, drug-free lifestyle, and to develop an attitude of intolerance to the use of drugs.
United States · United States Congress · 21 July 1989
Drug War Bond Act of 1989 - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to issue: (1) Drug War Bonds for a three-year period with a 12-year maturity date; and (2) Drug War Stamps to evidence payments for or on account of such bonds. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to exclude the interest earned on such War Bonds from an individual's gross income. Authorizes a taxpayer to designate a specified portion of any tax overpayment or make cash contributions to the War on Drugs Trust Fund (established by this Act). Authorizes the Attorney General to make expenditures from the Department of Justice Assets Forfeiture Fund into the War on Drugs Trust Fund. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to establish the War on Drugs Trust Fund. Transfers to such Fund: (1) proceeds from the sale of Drug War Bonds and stamps; and (2) certain cash contributions and portions of tax overpayments. Prescribes expenditures from the War on Drugs Trust Fund, including the construction of Federal prison facilities and education and rehabilitation programs. Precludes the receipts and disbursements from the War on Drugs Trust Fund from being included in either the congressional budget totals or in the budget totals as submitted by the President. Exempts the receipts and expenditures from the War on Drugs Trust Fund from: (1) statutory expenditure and lending limitations; and (2) certain orders issued under the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act). Requires the Secretary to report to the Congress on programs established by this Act. Directs the Attorney General to make recommendations to the Congress regarding the merits of privatizing Federal prisons.
United States · United States Congress · 20 July 1989
Marine Resource Protection and Driftnet Use Cessation Act of 1989 - Directs the Secretary of State to seek an international ban on the use of driftnets on the high seas. Directs the Secretary to report to the Congress: (1) describing the steps the Secretary has taken to begin negotiations; (2) detailing the progress of negotiations, if any; (3) listing nations which refused to negotiate and which use driftnet fishing on the high seas; and (4) recommending legislative action to encourage the listed nations to cease using driftnet fishing.
United States · United States Congress · 20 July 1989
National Academy of Science, Space, and Technology Act - Establishes in the Department of Education the National Academy of Science, Space, and Technology for the instruction and preparation for Federal service of selected persons. Establishes a commission to advise the Secretary of Education on the selection of a permanent location for the Academy, a course of study, and administrative matters. Directs the Secretary to determine the location of the Academy in the United States according to a specified process. Authorizes the Secretary to acquire land, prepare plans and designs, and construct and equip temporary or permanent public works at the location. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) provide for the erection of temporary buildings and the modification of existing structures on existing government property; (2) provide for the functioning, equipping, maintaining, and repairing of those buildings and structures; and (3) contract with institutions for operation and instruction. Empowers the Secretary to determine the course of study and the organizational structure of the Academy, establish rules, appoint officials, determine the size of the student body, and oversee admissions. Requires each Senator and Representative to nominate candidates for admission, with the number of vacancies allocated to a State proportional to that State's representation in the Congress and with apportionment in the order of merit established by competitive examinations. Requires vacancies allocated to other sources to be filled from among candidates in each category in order of merit established by similar competitive examinations, not to exceed 15 percent of the total appointments authorized. Requires that each student at the Academy, in return for his or her education and room and board, owes the Federal Government four years of service in the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the National Science Foundation, the Department of Health and Human Services, or any other Federal organization devoted to endeavors relating to science, space, or technology, subject to the approval of the Secretary. Allows the commitment also to be served in the Army, Navy, Air Force, or Marine Corps, subject to the rules and regulations of the particular branch.
United States · United States Congress · 19 July 1989
Dolphin Protection Consumer Information Act of 1989 - Provides for the labeling of all tuna products as "DOLPHIN SAFE" if the products are, in their entirety: (1) not caught with specified nets or technologies; and (2) regardless of the country of origin, sold or consumed in the United States. Requires tuna products sold or consumed in the United States and not so labeled to bear the statement: "The tuna in this product has been captured with technologies that are known to kill dolphins." Deems a can, box, or package containing any tuna product mislabeled if it is not labeled as required by these provisions, or if its label contains any false or misleading information pertaining to dolphins, whales, or other cetaceans. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services, through the Food and Drug Administration, to conduct inspections to determine if tuna products are being labeled in accordance with provisions of this Act. Authorizes any person to commence a civil action against the Secretary where there is alleged a failure of the Secretary to perform the inspection. Provides for injunction proceedings, jurisdiction, burden of proof, trial by jury, and awarding of costs. Authorizes any U.S. citizen to seek an injunction or restraining order. Provides for criminal penalties.
United States · United States Congress · 17 July 1989
Establishes the Commission on the Goddess of Democracy Statue to erect a statue on Federal land in the District of Columbia resembling the statue displayed in June 1989 by prodemocracy demonstrators in Tiananmen Square, Beijing, China. Specifies the duties of the Commission, its membership, and sources of funding. Authorizes the President to offer such statue to the Chinese people to be displayed in China when the President determines that the Chinese Government will respect the democratic principles that led to the display of the original statue.
United States · United States Congress · 12 July 1989
Amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to provide a lump sum payment of $100,000 (adjusted to reflect the annual percentage change in the Consumer Price Index) to public safety officers (law enforcement officers and fire fighters) who become permanently and totally disabled as a result of a catastrophic injury sustained in the line of duty. Prohibits the payment of both a lump sum disability payment and a lump sum death benefit.
United States · United States Congress · 12 July 1989
Requests: (1) the Soviet Union to release the prison records of Raoul Wallenberg and account for his whereabouts; and (2) the President to pursue such release and accounting through diplomatic actions with the Soviet Union.
United States · United States Congress · 11 July 1989
Battery Recycling and Research Act of 1989 - Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to prohibit the disposal of used lead-acid batteries except through recycling as specified under this Act. Requires any individual, retail or wholesale seller, or manufacturer of such batteries to dispose of batteries only by delivery to an authorized secondary lead smelter, an authorized collection or recycling facility, or other specified entities. Sets penalties for violations of this Act. Establishes additional battery collection requirements, including requirements that: (1) retailers give written notice to customers about the illegality of improperly discarding used motor vehicle, and other types of, lead-acid batteries; and (2) retailers, wholesalers, and manufacturers accept such batteries for recycling without charge. Authorizes the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to: (1) prescribe regulations, including a model notice for use by retailers; and (2) inspect any establishment subject to this Act and issue warnings and citations to individuals for failures to comply. Prohibits the sale of any lead-acid battery not bearing a permanent label containing information about the illegality of improper disposal and the requirement that retailers must accept used lead-acid batteries for recycling in exchange for new batteries purchased. Directs the Administrator to study and report to the Congress on the disposal and potential recyclability of household dry-cell batteries.
United States · United States Congress · 11 July 1989
Economic Diversification and Defense Adjustment Act of 1989 - Title I: Economic Diversification and Defense Adjustment Council - Establishes in the Executive Office of the President the Economic Diversification and Defense Adjustment Council (the Council). Directs the Council to establish an Office of Economic Diversification and Defense Adjustment within the Executive Office of the President to provide necessary staff support for the Council. Directs the Council to: (1) disseminate information in specified notifications by the Secretary of Defense; (2) work under the President's direction in implementing programs under title II of this Act; (3) develop and coordinate specified information pertaining to economic diversification and defense adjustment; (4) monitor job services information banks as a resource for dislocated workers in defense-related industries; (5) determine eligibility criteria for specified assistance and rule on eligibility appeals; (6) prepare and distribute an Economic Diversification and Defense Adjustment Guidelines Handbook; (7) make available to committees under title III of this Act information on economic development program funds which may be used for diversification and conversion planning; and (8) report annually to the Congress on any Federal economic development program which does not make available an adequate portion of its funds for such planning. Directs the Secretary of Defense (the Secretary), acting through the Council, to notify State and local governments and regional organizations which may be eligible for grants under this Act of: (1) a proposed realignment or closure of a military installation (on the same day on which such a determination is made); (2) the cancellation or termination of a defense contract or the failure to proceed with an approved major weapon system program; and (3) other significant pending or proposed changes in defense spending that will affect employment in the defense industry. Prohibits the Secretary from carrying out any proposed change unless such notification requirements are met. Directs the Secretary to furnish the Council annually with projected future defense spending levels and contract progress reports. Makes such notification requirements inapplicable to the termination or cancellation of a defense contract due to the enactment of any Federal law or a breach of such contract by the contractor or subcontractor. Title II: Community Economic Diversification and Defense Adjustment and Other Program - Directs the Council to establish a program of making general grants to: (1) eligible local or regional governments to plan or implement job retraining and economic diversification programs, or plan for alternative use of defense facilities; or (2) labor unions representing employees of businesses located within or near such governments. Directs the Council to establish a special program to pay premiums or other fees to maintain health insurance for up to one year for individuals whose unemployment resulted directly from cancellation or reduction of a major defense contract, or the closing or realignment of a military installation. Sets forth limitations on such grants. Title III: Diversification-Alternative Use Committees - Requires each community receiving a general grant under title II to establish a diversification-alternative use committee. Requires such committees, among other things, to develop diversification plans and alternative use plans. Title IV: Authorization of Appropriations - Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990 and thereafter.
United States · United States Congress · 11 July 1989
Professional Medical Liability Reform Act of 1989 - Establishes within the Department of Justice a program to fund the creation and operation of State medical liability arbitration panels. Confers upon such panels original and exclusive jurisdiction to hear all claims of medical malpractice that are not against the United States. Catalogs the powers of the panels. Sets forth standards applicable to panel decisions, including provisions relating to choice of law, timetable to govern decisionmaking, criteria relating to expert witnesses, and guidelines for the transmission of a written decision to the parties. Permits admission of evidence of collateral sources of compensation for injuries and requires a mandatory offset of amounts from such sources against damage awards. Authorizes panels to dismiss frivolous claims. Directs panels to determine the amount of damages owed to the plaintiff by a defendant found to be professionally negligent. Permits States to provide judicial enforcement of such damage awards if not promptly paid. Limits recovery for noneconomic loss to a maximum of $250,000, with provision for a cost of living adjustment every three years. Authorizes periodic payment of awards under certain circumstances. Prescribes procedures and standards to govern judicial review of a panel decision. Requires the panel to report to the State insurance commissioner and to the appropriate licensing or certification body within 30 days in cases when a defendant has been found guilty of professional negligence or when a settlement agreement is reached. Requires that the appropriate board make such report available for public inspection and that the commissioner promptly notify each liability insurance provider in the State concerning findings of negligence and the terms of any settlement agreement. Permits the State to authorize liability insurance providers to adjust their rates for persons found liable by a panel or who have entered into certain settlement agreements. Establishes a schedule of attorney fees in professional negligence actions. Provides for installment payment of such fees according to a formula specified in this Act. Subjects an attorney violating fee provisions to civil liability, with jurisdiction over such actions granted to Federal district courts. Requires each State to establish programs to: (1) study the causes of professional negligence in the interest of developing means to prevent or reduce its incidence; (2) review the authority and operations of State medical liability claims plans, risk management bodies, and appropriate health care professional licensing or certification entities; and (3) develop educational materials relating to professional negligence and standards of health care practice. Directs the State health commissioner to develop programs to identify, investigate, and report on incidents of professional negligence and to encourage facilities to take action to prevent future negligence. Fixes a statute of limitations for professional negligence actions. Encourages States to permit parties to a claim filed with a panel to enter into a settlement agreement at any time prior to a panel decision. Subjects such a settlement to the same attorney fee schedule that governs panel decisions. Directs the Attorney General to make specified payments to States eligible for medical liability panel funds according to a specified timetable and schedule. Requires the Governor of a recipient State to report to the Attorney General within one year after receipt of payment concerning the use of such payment. Authorizes the Attorney General to determine the allocation of funds to qualifying States and prescribes guidelines for such determinations. Empowers the Attorney General to make decisions concerning compliance with this Act, termination of allocations and repayment of funds in the event of noncompliance, and reallocation of funds according to guidelines in this Act. Sets forth procedures, a timetable, and standards to govern application by the Governor of any State for the certification of programs to qualify a State for funding under this Act. Makes decisions by the Attorney General concerning noncompliance, the termination of allocations, State repayment of funds, and the reallocation of funds final and not subject to judicial review. Directs the Attorney General to promulgate regulations to implement the provisions of this Act. Authorizes appropriations beginning in FY 1990.
United States · United States Congress · 29 June 1989
Recycling Promotion Act - Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to direct the Secretary of Commerce to conduct a biennial survey that: (1) identifies the major domestic uses for, and users of, recovered materials; (2) documents or estimates the amounts of such materials used, exported, and imported annually; (3) quantifies the markets for recovered materials; and (4) is incorporated into the periodic survey of industry conducted by the Department of Commerce. Requires the Secretary to establish an interagency working group to: (1) promote markets in recovered materials and link recovered material sources with potential markets; (2) work cooperatively with generators, collectors, transporters, users, and regulators of such materials and with manufacturers of products containing such materials; (3) link businesses dealing in recovered materials with potential sources of capital; (4) educate government and business officials about potential commerce in such materials; (5) coordinate efforts to promote lawful commerce in such materials; (6) encourage reuse and recycling of solid waste; (7) identify the institutional, economic, and technical barriers to the use of such materials; and (8) report to the Congress on the progress made in carrying out such activities. Authorizes appropriations to the Secretary to carry out resource and recovery duties under the Solid Waste Disposal Act. Applies Federal procurement requirements concerning recycled goods to States or other entities if such entities use funds appropriated to a Federal agency to which such procurement requirements apply. Directs the Administrator for Federal Procurement Policy to report to the Congress on the effect of a certain price preference concerning the procurement of recycled paper products. Requires affirmative procurement programs to include programs for monitoring compliance by States, political subdivisions, and contractors with recovered materials procurement requirements. Requires such agencies to report annually to the Administrator on such programs and on the amount and value of recovered materials procured. Makes such reports available to the public. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to: (1) report biennially to the Congress on the progress made by Federal agencies in implementing recovered materials procurement programs; and (2) review and revise, if necessary, guidelines concerning such programs which were prepared before this Act's enactment. Requires Federal agencies, in the management of solid waste and the making of policies affecting solid waste management, to promote, in the following order of preference: (1) source reduction; (2) recovery of material; and (3) recovery of energy or safe disposal. Directs such agencies to review existing policies relating to solid waste management or recovered resources to: (1) identify policies which discourage source reduction or recovery of material; and (2) make changes necessary to promote resource conservation. Requires Federal agencies responsible for drafting or reviewing specifications for procurement items to eliminate from such specifications: (1) any exclusion of recovered materials; and (2) any requirement that items be manufactured from virgin materials. Directs such agencies to assure that such specifications require the use of recovered materials to the maximum extent possible without jeopardizing the intended end use of an item. Requires such agencies to designate solid waste policy officers to oversee implementation of this Act. Authorizes any person to petition a Federal agency to make changes in policies concerning resource conservation or in specifications for procurement items. Permits Federal agencies or units of the legislative branch that sell material or energy recovered from solid waste to retain any amounts received from such sales for use in funding operations of such agencies or units. Requires the EPA Administrator to compile and periodically update an inventory of non-hazardous solid waste to determine, by State or region: (1) an estimate of the amount of such waste to be generated annually and likely to be generated in each of the next 20 years; and (2) the capacity of existing and proposed waste storage, processing, and disposal facilities. Requires State solid waste management plans to: (1) promote source reduction and recovery of materials; (2) develop markets for solid waste; (3) reduce governmental discrimination against such policies; and (4) gather information to assist the Administrator in preparation of the inventory. Authorizes States with approved plans to adopt laws discriminating against treatment, storage, transportation, or disposal of solid waste originating in a State which is not implementing a plan. Permits the Administrator to prohibit uses of particular constituents in consumer packaging if the Administrator finds that such constituents: (1) make resource recovery or disposal of the packaging more difficult or dangerous because they have characteristics of hazardous wastes; or (2) are not necessary to safe and healthful packaging. Requires the Administrator to review inks used to label consumer packaging to determine whether the use of such inks should be prohibited. Directs the Administrator to: (1) establish standards to ensure that products labeled as containing recycled or recovered materials or as readily recyclable do contain material that is readily recyclable; (2) review consumer packaging to determine whether waste likely to be generated from such packaging consists of readily recoverable material and if it not, to require such packaging to be labeled as non-recyclable; and (3) establish requirements for the coding of consumer packaging that is composed principally of plastics. Provides that packaging violating such standards shall be considered to be in violation of the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act. Requires the Administrator to establish a take-back system to require retailers, distributors, importers, and manufacturers to accept reasonable quantities of used products from their customers without charge, to inform customers of such service, and to comply with standards concerning safe storage and transport of such products. Applies such system to products that: (1) may constitute a hazard to human health or the environment if improperly disposed of or recovered; and (2) are likely to be improperly disposed of or recovered if not segregated from the waste stream or directed into appropriate channels for special disposal or recovery. Prohibits the disposal of such products in a manner harmful to human health or the environment. Makes exceptions for certain products for certain classes of retailers. Permits such exceptions to be made only if there are alternative collection points for such products that are reasonably convenient for persons taking back such products. Requires the Administrator to: (1) promulgate regulations for lead-acid batteries; and (2) make determinations with respect to a take-back system for tires, dry-cell batteries, used oil, large household appliances, automobiles with airbags, and unused pesticides.
United States · United States Congress · 29 June 1989
Coastal Barrier Improvement Act of 1989 - Amends the Coastal Barrier Resources Act to remove references to unconsolidated sedimentary materials from the definition of "undeveloped coastal barrier." Establishes the Coastal Barrier Resources System, to consist of those undeveloped coastal barriers on the U.S. coasts identified on specified maps. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to submit such maps to specified congressional committees, each State and county jurisdiction in which a System unit is located, each coastal zone management office, and each appropriate Federal agency. Allows the Secretary to make minor and technical changes to the boundaries of System units within 180 days of filing the maps, as consistent with this Act and necessary to clarify the boundaries. Allows the head of each State coastal zone management agency to submit proposals for such changes. Sets forth exceptions, with regard to existing limitations on expenditures, relating to energy resources, navigation channels, certain publicly owned or operated roads or structures, military activities essential to national security, Coast Guard facilities, and other matters if consistent with the purposes of this Act. Directs the Secretary to submit to specified congressional committees maps identifying the boundaries of those undeveloped coastal barriers along the U.S. Pacific coast appropriate for inclusion in the System. Authorizes appropriations to carry out specified provisions of the Act.
United States · United States Congress · 29 June 1989
Directs the American Battle Monuments Commission to establish a memorial on Federal land in the District of Columbia or its immediate area to honor World War II veterans and to commemorate U.S. participation in that conflict. Directs the Commission to plan, design, construct, and oversee the operation of the memorial. Specifies that such design shall provide for accessibility by, and accommodations for, the physically handicapped. Establishes the World War II Memorial Advisory Board to: (1) promote the establishment of the memorial and encourage the donation of private funds for construction maintenance; (2) assist and cooperate with the Commission in the selection of the site and design for the memorial; and (3) transmit annual reports on its activities to the Congress. Authorizes the Commission to solicit private contributions for such memorial. Establishes a fund in the Treasury which shall be made available to the Commission to carry out this Act. Authorizes Federal funding, in addition to such private funds, for site preparation, design, planning, establishment, construction, maintenance, and operation of the memorial. Authorizes assistance from specified Federal departments and agencies, including the Library of Congress. Authorizes Federal property to be transferred to the Commission. Authorizes the Commission to purchase suitable property within the District of Columbia for the establishment of such memorial. Urges the Government to encourage 50th anniversary commemorations of the U.S. role in World War II. Urges the Smithsonian Institution and other Federal museums to develop commemorative exhibitions to be shared with academic institutions.
United States · United States Congress · 29 June 1989
Constitutional Amendment - Declares that the Congress and the States shall have power to prohibit the act of desecration of the U.S. flag and to set criminal penalties for that act.
United States · United States Congress · 28 June 1989
Directs the Secretary of the Interior to prepare an environmental impact statement (EIS) for the reintroduction of gray wolves to Yellowstone National Park and adjacent public lands. Requires such EIS to consider: (1) the potential for wolves to leave the recovery area and cause damage to domestic livestock; (2) the wildlife management responsibilities and objectives of the States of Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho; and (3) the possibility of reintroducing gray wolves as an experimental population under the Endangered Species Act. Establishes a timetable for the Secretary to select an alternative for such reintroduction and to implement the decision. Directs the Secretary to provide financial assistance to Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho for the implementation of wolf conservation and management plans.
United States · United States Congress · 28 June 1989
International Banking Environmental Protection Act of 1989 - Amends the International Financial Institutions Act to preclude the U.S. Executive Director of a multilateral development bank from voting in favor of any proposed action which would have a significant environmental impact unless a comprehensive environmental impact assessment has been furnished. Requires that: (1) an environmental impact assessment accompany loan proposals through the agency review process; (2) such banks develop and make available to member governments and borrowers a systematic environmental assessment procedure for development projects; and (3) appropriate U.S. Government personnel be made available to train and assist bank staff in making environmental impact assessments. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to report to certain congressional committees on the efficacy of U.S. efforts to encourage consistent and timely environmental impact assessments of proposed multilateral development bank actions.
United States · United States Congress · 28 June 1989
Designates October 29, 1989, as Fire Safety at Home Day: Change Your Clock, Change Your Battery. Directs the President to issue a proclamation to urge people to change the batteries in their smoke detectors when they reset their clocks from daylight savings time.
United States · United States Congress · 28 June 1989
Declares it is U.S. policy to provide a national air transportation system which: (1) enhances the general welfare and security of the United States; and (2) is free of regulations which unreasonably burden or restrict the right of citizens to travel by air. Requires the President to submit to the Congress a plan for a new comprehensive national aviation policy.
United States · United States Congress · 27 June 1989
Christopher Columbus Coin and Fellowship Act - Title I: Christopher Columbus Quincentenary Coins - Christopher Columbus Quincentenary Coin Act - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to mint and issue not more than a specified number of five dollar gold coins, one dollar silver coins, and half dollar clad coins emblematic of the quincentary of the discovery of America. Sets forth certain features of such coins and provides for their design, issuance, and sale. Terminates the minting of such coins after June 30, 1993. Requires the Secretary to deposit surcharges from the sale of such coins in the Christopher Columbus Fellowship Fund for use by the Christopher Columbus Fellowship Foundation. Declares that no law governing procurement or public contracts shall be applicable to the procurement of goods and services necessary for carrying out this Act, except that this provision shall not relieve any person from complying with any law relating to equal employment opportunity. Title II: Christopher Columbus Fellowship Foundation - Christopher Columbus Fellowship Act - Establishes the Christopher Columbus Fellowship Foundation to award fellowships to outstanding individuals to encourage new discoveries in all fields of endeavor for the benefit of mankind. Establishes the Christopher Columbus Fellowship Fund. Directs the Foundation to report to the President and to the Congress annually on its operations.
United States · United States Congress · 27 June 1989
Constitutional Amendment - Declares that the Congress and the States shall have power to prohibit the act of desecration of the U.S. flag and to set criminal penalties for that act.
United States · United States Congress · 22 June 1989
National Ground Water Research Act of 1989 - Directs the President to coordinate Federal ground water research, monitoring, and protection activities through the establishment of an Interagency Ground Water Research Committee. Requires the Committee to appoint an Education Committee to review the academic and related institutional capabilities for education and training of ground water research related professionals and to identify opportunities for improving such education and training. Directs the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the U.S. Geological Survey, to prepare a report assessing ground water quality and quantity information systems and data collection and monitoring. Requires the Secretary to submit such report to the Congress with biennial updates. Directs the Secretary to conduct a national ground water assessment program to assist State and local governments in ground water protection and remediation of contamination and depletion and in the design of monitoring programs, including recommendations for protocols to assist such governments in meeting their data collection responsibilities under specified Federal environmental statutes. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish and coordinate a research, development, and demonstration program for ground water protection and remediation of contamination, to include surveys, the development of cost-effective prevention, detection, and remediation techniques, and the provision of technical assistance. Sets forth demonstration project selection criteria and procedures, based upon the seriousness of the contaminant addressed and a project's applicability to other locations and circumstances. Requires that such project be monitored and evaluated by the Administrator. Authorizes the Administrator to pay the costs of such evaluation, but limits Federal cost sharing for the project in general. Requires the Administrator to publish an environmental profile for each significant ground water contaminant. Requires such profiles to include risk assessment analyses to assess the risk to human health and the environment within a range of concentrations of such contaminants. Directs the Administrator to implement research programs for the development of information necessary to conduct risk assessments and make risk management decisions regarding the presence of such contaminants in ground water. Establishes a timetable for the publication of such profiles. Requires the Administrator, in publishing such profiles, to give priority to the most toxic contaminants. Directs the Secretary and the Administrator each to establish a technical assistance program to serve other Federal and governmental agencies, including assistance for research, surveys, training, and technology transfer. Directs the Secretary, acting through the U.S. Geological Survey, to establish and maintain a National Groundwater Information Clearinghouse. Directs the Administrator to establish a ground water research committee for ground water resources. Directs the Science Advisory Board established by the Environmental Research, Development, and Demonstration Act of 1978 to review and report to the Congress on EPA's ground water research programs. Authorizes the Administrator to establish and maintain research fellowships. Directs the Administrator to make grants for ground water research institutes. Requires that funds be equitably distributed throughout the United States and that one of the institutes be the National Center for Ground Water Research, a consortium between Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, and Rice Universities. Limits the Federal share to 50 percent of costs and earmarks funds for technology transfer. Requires the Administrator to review and evaluate such institutes and subjects the institute's research to peer review. Directs the President to report annually to the Congress on activities carried out under this Act. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990 through 1992. Authorizes the Administrator to make grants to States to support the development and implementation of State strategies designed to detect, prevent, and correct ground water contamination and control sources of contaminants. Sets forth allotment requirements. Limits such grants to 50 percent of a project's total cost. Authorizes appropriations for such grants for FY 1990 through 1992.
United States · United States Congress · 22 June 1989
Constitutional Amendment - Declares that the Congress and the States shall have power to prohibit the act of desecration of the U.S. flag and to set criminal penalties for that act.
![Official portrait of Rep. Hochbrueckner, George J. [D-NY-1]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/h000670_200.jpg)