United States · United States Congress · 16 May 1979
Oil Industry Tax Reform Act of 1979 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to repeal the percentage depletion allowance for independent oil and gas producers and royalty owners. Repeals the tax treatment of intangible drilling and development costs for oil and gas wells (except nonproductive wells) as currently deductible expenses. Requires such costs to be capitalized and amortized over a 168 month period. Disallows an income tax credit for foreign taxes paid by domestic corporations on foreign oil related income. Treats such taxes as royalties for which a deduction or exclusion from foreign source income would be allowed. Requires the payment of income taxes at the corporate level on the foreign oil-related income of domestic corporations.
United States · United States Congress · 16 May 1979
Amends the Food Stamp Act of 1977 to entitle households composed entirely of persons who are age 60 or older, or who receive supplemental security income benefits under title XVI of the Social Security Act, to a medical expense deduction in the computation of household income which is equal to the actual cost of medical expenses. Removes the $75 limit on the excess shelter expense deduction for such households.
United States · United States Congress · 10 May 1979
Federal Gasohol Purchase Act - Directs each Federal agency and department to issue regulations which grant preferences in bulk and retail purchases of gasoline by such agency or department to suppliers or bidders who offer gasohol in lieu of ordinary gasoline provided the cost of such gasohol does not exceed 115 percent of the cost of ordinary gasoline. Establishes procedures for Federal agencies in implementing such fuel purchases. Defines the term "gasohol" to mean a motor fuel consisting of 90 percent gasoline and 10 percent methanol or ethanol which is suitable for use by itself or in combination with other fuels as a motor fuel and which is not refined from petroleum and which does not use any petroleum fuel as a heat source for the process of manufacture.
United States · United States Congress · 10 May 1979
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that Iranian leaders should: (1) respect the human rights of religious minorities; and (2) stop the harassment of those who wish to practice their religion.
United States · United States Congress · 8 May 1979
Title I: Authorizations and Miscellaneous Amendments - Amends the Small Business Act to authorize appropriations for specified programs and expenses of the Small Business Administration. States that all appropriations, whether specifically or generally authorized, shall remain available until expended. Authorizes the Administration to make disaster loans available to small business concerns affected by a shortage of energy-producing resources caused by a strike, boycott, or embargo unless such strike, boycott or embargo is directly against such small business concern. Makes specified low-interest loans available under the Small Business Act until October 1, 1982, for the relief of small business concerns affected by disasters occurring on or after October 1, 1978. Provides loans bearing interest at three percent for amounts not exceeding $55,000, for the repair or replacement of a principal residence or personal property. Makes the following disaster loans available under the Small Business Act and the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act: (1) loans bearing interest at three percent on amounts for the repair or replacement of property damaged or destroyed if the applicant is unable to obtain sufficient credit elsewhere; and (2) loans bearing interest at the current average market yield on outstanding marketable obligations of the United States with remaining periods to maturity comparable to the average maturities of such loans, plus not to exceed one percent if the applicant is able to obtain credit elsewhere. Stipulates that the total amount outstanding and committed to any one borrower shall not exceed $500,000. Amends the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 to repeal the authority of the Administration to invest sums from the revolving fund for surety bond guarantees in Treasury bonds, obligations, and other guaranteed debt securities. Authorizes such investments from the revolving fund for qualified contract guarantees. Title II: Small Business Development Centers - Authorizes the Small Business Administration to make grants to States, State agencies, regional entities, State- chartered development credit corporations, and institutions of higher learning to assist in establishing Small Business Development Centers. Requires such grants to be matched in equal amounts by funds from non-Federal sources. Establishes additional restrictions on such grants for fiscal years 1979 through 1982. States that Small Business Development Centers shall have a full-time staff, business and technology analysts, information and professional specialists, and access to laboratory and engineering facilities. Requires such Centers to provide small businesses with business and technology counseling, information on government regulations, library services, and comprehensive studies and surveys. Directs federally funded laboratories and innovation centers to cooperate with the Small Business Development Centers. Requires the Administrator of the Small Business Administration to appoint a Deputy Associate Administrator for Management and Technical Assistance to administer the Small Business Development Center program. Establishes a National Small Business Development Center Advisory Board consisting of nine civilian members. Sets forth provisions governing the appointment of members, a Chairman, meetings, and compensation of the Board. Directs the Small Business Administration to conduct an evaluation of the Development Center program and to submit a report to the appropriate committees of Congress within three years. Title III: White House Conference on Small Business - White House Conference on Small Business Act - Directs the President to convene a White House Conference on Small Business by June 30, 1980, to identify the problems of small business concerns and to make recommendations for executive and legislative action. Requires the Conference to submit a report to the President and the Congress within one year of the date it convenes. Requires the Small Business Administration to report to the Congress within three years on the status and implementation of the findings and recommendations of the Conference. Makes such sums as are appropriated to carry out the provisions of this Act available until expended.
United States · United States Congress · 8 May 1979
Small Business Investment Incentive Act of 1979 - Amends the Securities Act of 1933 to include within the private offering exemption from full registration any transaction involving securities bearing a legend stating that such securities may not be sold or transferred except to accredited investors provided all purchasers of such securities are accredited investors or persons the issuer reasonably believes to be accredited investors and there is no general advertising or solicitation in connection with the transaction. Defines the term "accredited investor" to include: (1) banks, insurance companies, investment companies and their subsidiaries, and any fund, trust or account administered by a bank or insurance company; (2) persons designated by regulation of the Securities and Exchange Commission on the basis of expertise or net worth; and (3) persons who rely on the investment advice of a qualified accredited investor. States that a person engaging in the sale or distribution of restricted securities (securities acquired in a transaction or chain of transactions not involving any public offering) shall not be considered an underwriter if such person has been the beneficial owner for at least five years. Limits civil liability in connection with the sale of securities in private offerings. Amends the Investment Company Act of 1940 to grant an exemption from such Act to certain issuers which engage in the business of furnishing capital or providing business ventures and activities, purchasing securities for which no ready market is in existence, or reorganizing companies. Directs the Securities and Exchange Commission to prescribe necessary rules and regulations within 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 3 May 1979
National Alcohol Fuel and Farm Commodity Production Act of 1979 - Amends the Rural Development Act of 1972 to replace the current program of loan guarantees for pilot project production of industrial hydrocarbons from agricultural commodities with a program under which the Secretary of Agriculture may guarantee payment of 50 percent of loans made by private lenders to persons constructing and maintaining plants for the production of fuel alcohol derived from agricultural commodities. Authorizes the Secretary to sell such commodities to such loan recipients and to acquire and use distilled dried grains plus solubles (DDGS) from them. Specifies conditions for such loan guarantees and sets the maximum cumulative total of outstanding principal and interest during the period from October 1, 1979, through September 30, 1984, at $600,000,000. Establishes in the Treasury of the United States the Alcohol Fuel Plant Loan Guarantee Fund, and authorizes the appropriation of $60,000,000 for deposit in such Fund for fiscal year 1980. Amends the Agricultural Act of 1949 to set the loan level for corn at $2.10 per bushel, and the established price for the 1982 crop at $2.75 per bushel. Directs the Secretary to study and report to Congress on the uses and marketing of the byproducts resulting from the production of alcohol fuel, including, if appropriate, a market promotion program identifying the foreign markets for such byproducts for human consumption.
United States · United States Congress · 3 May 1979
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow individuals an income tax credit equal to 25 percent of the total cost of heating oil purchased by such individuals for use in a residence for residential purposes. Limits the dollar amount of such credit to $200 for the taxable year. Reduces the amount of such credit by one percent of the amount by which the taxpayer's adjusted gross income exceeds $15,000. Provides for the termination of the credit for taxable years ending after December 31, 1983.
United States · United States Congress · 2 May 1979
Establishes the Public Debt Retirement Trust Fund in the Treasury of the United States. Appropriates to the Trust Fund amounts received in the Treasury equivalent to any windfall profit taxes imposed on domestic crude oil production. Stipulates that such amounts shall be transferred at least monthly from the general fund of the Treasury to the Trust Fund. Requires that the amounts in the Trust Fund be used only for the payment, purchase, or redemption of any obligations included in the public debt. Stipulates that all such obligations shall be canceled and retired and shall not be reissued.
United States · United States Congress · 2 May 1979
Legal Fees Reimbursement Act of 1979 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to require the Federal Government to reimburse taxpayers who prevail in tax litigation initiated by the Government or by the taxpayer contesting a tax deficiency assessment for all reasonable litigation expenses incurred by such taxpayer. Includes within the meaning of "reasonable litigation expenses" all actual attorneys' fees, court costs, expert witnesses, clerical assistance, travel expenses, preparation of documents, and other related and necessary expenses.
United States · United States Congress · 1 May 1979
Nuclear Power Investigation and Review Act of 1979 - Directs the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to cease issuing construction licenses or limited work authorizations for nuclear power plants or amendments to existing licenses for the expansion of reactor site spent fuel storage facilities until the Special Commission for the Investigation and Review of Nuclear Power, to be established under this Act, has reported its recommendations to the Congress and the Congress has had sufficient time to review such recommendations. Establishes a Special Commission for the Investigation and Review of Nuclear Power, to be composed of specified presidential and congressional appointees, to conduct a comprehensive investigation and review of outstanding issues relating to nuclear fuels, nuclear waste transportation, storage, disposal, nuclear safety, the economics of nuclear power, nuclear security measures, nuclear emergencies, and other areas of concern. Sets forth the powers and duties of such commission, including the power to compel by means of subpoena the delivery of information in the possession of any Federal department or agency or other person which relates to any matter under investigation by the Commission. Directs the Commission to hold public hearings and to receive evidence as the Commission deems advisable. Directs the Commission to make a final report to the President and to the Congress on the results of its investigation.
United States · United States Congress · 26 April 1979
Fair Access to Higher Education Act of 1979 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to replace the fixed $2,500 per school year limitation with one based on increasing amounts per school year for: (1) individual undergraduate Federal loan insurance; (2) State and institution subsidy interest payments for such loans; and (3) undergraduate supplemental loan insurance guarantees. Increases from $7,500 to $11,500 (for undergraduate students), and from $15,000 to $18,000 (for graduate students) the maximum aggregate insured unpaid amounts for: (1) individual Federal loan insurance; (2) State and institution subsidy interest payments for such loans; and (3) supplemental loan insurance guarantees. Provides that an eligible lender (other than an eligible institution) may elect to have such federally-insured school loans collected by the Secretary of the Treasury. Provides that a borrower of such a loan may elect to have it repaid to the Secretary or Commissioner of Education on an income contingent method as defined by this Act. Stipulates that election of any such repayment or collection method must be made by the beginning of the repayment period. Requires the Commissioner of Education to notify the other party when such a collection or repayment choice has been made. Provides that such an eligible lender holding a loan where the borrower has elected the income contingent method of repayment may elect to collect such loan rather than the Federal Government. Directs the Commissioner to make an agreement with an eligible lender holding specified elected loans which provide that: (1) the lender shall transmit to the Commissioner all information necessary to collect such loan; (2) the Commissioner shall make periodic loan payments to the lender; and (3) the Commissioner shall be bound by the terms of the lender-borrower agreement. Prohibits any such agreement to be made unless the lender provides assurances of non-discrimination. Sets forth: (1) the duties of the Commissioner and the Secretary with regard to elected collection and repayment procedures; (2) the monthly payment amounts to be made by the Commissioner to a lender; and (3) the repayment formulas for student borrowers. Provides that a student borrower not required to file an income tax return for a particular year shall not be required to make any repayments for that year. Requires an employer to deduct and withhold amounts from the wages of an employee-borrower who elects to have such loan repaid by the income contingent method and have such amounts deducted and withheld. Provides penalties for an employer failing to make such required deductions and withholdings. Requires the Secretary to notify a student borrower when such loan has been repaid. Establishes in the Treasury of the United States a Guaranteed Student Loan Fund to be used for making payments to eligible lenders who have agreements with the Commissioner, and for making refunds to borrowers as provided for by this Act. Provides that a lender or borrower making a collection or repayment election may have such loan procedures administered alternatively by specified State or private nonprofit institutions. Defines "State marketing association" for purposes of this Act to mean such institutions or private corporations sponsored by them making or purchasing such student loans. Authorizes such associations to extend the operations of the Student Loan Marketing Association by providing secondary marketing facilities for student loans. Sets forth guidelines and requirements concerning such associations. Authorizes such associations to: (1) consolidate such student loans; and (2) establish facilities for centralized lender referrals and loan services. Directs the Commissioner to make prepayments to such associations meeting certain requirements, including: (1) developing and distributing a uniform statewide loan application form; (2) maintaining a list of eligible lenders of additional loans; and (3) making limited direct loans of last resort (as defined by this Act). Provides deductions from amounts owed to the Commissioner by such associations which: (1) establish secondary marketing facilities; (2) provide for loan consolidation; (3) provide centralized facilities for lender referral and service; and (4) make limited direct loans. Requires agreements evidencing federally-insured loans and Federal interest subsidies on such loans to provide for student prepayment discounts. Provides that such interest payments shall be deferred, rather than paid by the Federal Government as presently provided for. Stipulates that any such deferred interest shall be accrued to the loan's principal. Redefines "eligible lender" for the purpose of authorizing multiple disbursements with regard to such Federal interest payments. Directs the Commissioner, in the case of a defaulting student borrower, to immediately pay such amount to an insured beneficiary who has certified his compliance with all Federal default regulations. Requires the Commissioner to report such default to a commercial credit bureau approved by the Student Loan Marketing Association. Revises certain provisions concerning computation and payment of special allowances. Requires agreements evidencing federally-insured student loans and Federal interest subsidies on such loans to include provisions describing lender and borrower election of repayment and collection methods as provided for by this Act. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to authorize the Secretary to disclose tax return information to State or private nonprofit loan institutions regarding student borrowers.
United States · United States Congress · 26 April 1979
Intelligence Officer Identity Act of 1979 - Establishes maximum criminal penalties of ten years imprisonment and/or a $100,000 fine for: (1) past or present employees of the United States or members of the uniformed services; and (2) anyone having lawful access to information identifying individuals as associated with a United States agency engaged in foreign intelligence or counterintelligence activities, who discloses classified information concerning any such association to anyone not authorized to receive it. Establishes additional penalties for any disclosure or false assertion which prejudices the safety of the individual indentified or damages the foreign affairs functions of the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 26 April 1979
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the Soviet Union should: (1) permit emigration from the Soviet Union; (2) remove restrictions on religious and cultural practices; (3) remove restrictions on scientific and intellectual endeavors; and (4) stop harassing individuals who wish to leave or practice their religion.
United States · United States Congress · 25 April 1979
Amends the Controlled Substances Import and Export Act to set a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years imprisonment for anyone violating the provisions of such Act by importing or exporting at least 100 pounds of marijuana. Stipulates that the execution or imposition of such term of imprisonment: (1) may not be suspended; (2) may not include probation or parole; and (3) is not subject to the Federal Youth Corrections Act.
United States · United States Congress · 24 April 1979
Controlled Substances Sentencing Amendments of 1979 - Amends the Controlled Substances Act and the Controlled Substances Import and Export Act to establish mandatory minimum terms of imprisonment for the commission of certain offenses currently prohibited under such Acts. Increases such minimum terms if the defendant had been convicted previously of a felony. Authorizes a court to sentence an individual to a shorter term of imprisonment or parole ineligibility upon a finding of specified mitigating circumstances. Stipulates that the imposition or execution of a sentence under such Act: (1) may not include probation; (2) may not be suspended; (3) may not run concurrently; and (4) may not come under the provisions of the Federal Youth Corrections Act. Amends the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure to require that a separate sentencing hearing be conducted when an individual is convicted of an offense for which a mandatory term of imprisonment is authorized under this Act. Directs a judicial officer, in setting the conditions of release pending trial, to consider whether a person charged with an offense under title I of this Act poses a threat to the community or will commit similar offenses. Authorizes such judicial officer to deny pretrial release to such individual upon a finding by clear and convincing evidence of specified aggravating circumstances in a separate hearing. Sets forth due process requirements for such hearings.
United States · United States Congress · 24 April 1979
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the Soviet Union should: (1) permit emigration from the Soviet Union; (2) remove restrictions on religious and cultural practices; and (3) stop harassing individuals who wish to leave or practice their religion.
United States · United States Congress · 10 April 1979
Preretirement Education Act of 1979 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to establish a program of grants to: (1) develop model preretirement education programs; (2) train personnel for such programs; (3) prepare related information and materials; and (4) provide consultation services. Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to carry out a preretirement education study and a retirement employment study.
United States · United States Congress · 10 April 1979
Food Security Act of 1979 - Declares it to be the policy of the United States to develop a wheat reserve solely to provide for emergency food needs in developing countries. Directs the President to establish a reserve stock of wheat of up to 4,000,000 metric tons. Authorizes the President to release such stocks on a donation or concessional sale basis to provide emergency food assistance to developing countries at any time that the domestic supply of wheat in the United States is so limited that quantities cannot be made available except for urgent humanitarian purposes. Exempts such reserve stock from limitations which may be imposed pursuant to the Agricultural Trade Development and Assistance Act of 1954 and the Export Administration Act of 1969.
United States · United States Congress · 10 April 1979
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to tax income of married individuals filing tax returns separate from their spouses at the same rates applicable to unmarried individuals.
United States · United States Congress · 10 April 1979
Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act to provide that disability insurance benefits for an individual having a terminal illness shall begin with the first month during all of which such individual has such illness. Defines the term "terminal illness" to mean, a medically determinable physical impairment which is expected to result in death within the next 12 months.
United States · United States Congress · 10 April 1979
Food Security Act of 1979 - Declares it to be the policy of the United States to develop a wheat reserve solely to provide for emergency food needs in developing countries. Directs the President to establish a reserve stock of wheat of up to 4,000,000 metric tons. Authorizes the President to release such stocks on a donation or concessional sale basis to provide emergency food assistance to developing countries at any time that the domestic supply of wheat in the United States is so limited that quantities cannot be made available except for urgent humanitarian purposes. Exempts such reserve stock from limitations which may be imposed pursuant to the Agricultural Trade Development and Assistance Act of 1954 and the Export Administration Act of 1969.
United States · United States Congress · 10 April 1979
Soft Drink Interbrand Competition Act - Declares that exclusive territorial arrangements made as a part of a licensing agreement for the manufacture, distribution, or sale of a trademarked soft drink product are lawful under the antitrust laws provided such product is in substantial and effective competition with other products of the same general class. Prohibits recovery in private actions under the Clayton Act based on territorial provisions in a trademark licensing agreement prior to a final determination that such provisions are unlawful.
United States · United States Congress · 10 April 1979
Wind Energy Systems Research, Development, and Demonstration Act of 1979 - Declares it to be the policy of the United States and the purpose of this Act to establish a research, development, and demonstration program for converting wind energy into electricity. Sets as a goal of such program the attainment of a total megawatt capacity of at lease 500 megawatts from wind energy systems by fiscal year 1986 and the reduction of the average cost of electricity produced by such systems to a level competitive with conventional energy sources. Authorizes the Secretary of Energy to enter into such contracts and make such grants as may be necessary or appropriate for the development of wind energy systems for commercial production and utilization. Directs the Secretary to enter into arrangements with appropriate Federal agencies to carry out projects and activities with respect to Federal facilities as may be appropriate for the demonstration of wind energy systems which are suitable and effective for use in such facilities. Sets forth criteria for selection of programs consistent with the purposes of this Act. Directs the Secretary to monitor, collect and evaluate data and information, and conduct studies and investigations relating to wind energy systems and programs. Directs the Secretary to assure that information relating to programs, projects and other activities conducted under this Act are widely disseminated to Federal, State, and local authorities, relevant segments of the economy, the scientific community and the public, so as to promote the use of wind energy to the maximum extent feasible. Directs the Secretary to assure that small businesses will have adequate opportunities to participate in the programs conducted under this Act to the maximum extent practicable. Authorizes the appropriation of $100,000,000 for fiscal year 1980 to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 9 April 1979
Solar Energy Employment and Training Act - Amends the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act of 1973 (CETA) to authorize the Secretary of Labor to provide financial assistance to certain CETA prime sponsors and other private nonprofit or public agencies, including community-based organizations, unions, and vocational education facilities, to provide employment and training programs in the fields of solar energy and energy conservation for persons who are: (1) unemployed or underemployed; or (2) in school and are ages 16 to 24, inclusive. Directs the Secretary, after consultation with the Secretary of Energy, to promulgate guidelines for such programs. Allows Governors or prime sponsors, in order to carry out such programs and after consultation with community-based organizations and nonprofit groups, to: (1) enter into contracts with project applicants or employers organized for profit (with limitations on payments to such employers); or (2) operate such programs directly. Requires the Secretary, in awarding financial assistance under the provisions of this Act, to assure that: (1) each geographical section of the country is awarded a project; (2) sufficient natural resources and technology are available to ensure a successful project; and (3) areas which are poor in conventional energy sources are awarded financial assistance. Directs the Secretary to use up to 20 percent of such funds to support certain apprenticeship projects, including those in the solar and energy conservation aspects of traditional building trades and new trades. Authorizes appropriations for such programs for fiscal years 1980 through 1984. Limits to 25 percent the amount of such funds which may be used for administrative and other allowable costs incurred by groups conducting such projects. Directs the Secretary to arrange for the implementation of solar energy and energy conservation education and training programs in suitable Job Corps centers.
United States · United States Congress · 3 April 1979
Civilian Nuclear Reactor Emergency Act of 1979 - Title I: Nuclear Emergencies - Establishes a Presidential Commission to be called the Nuclear Reactor Emergency Commission. Directs the Commission to develop comprehensive specifications of conditions which an existing or potential malfunction of a civilian reactor would lead to substantial short- or long-term dangers to the health of the general public, or to substantial contamination of the general environment. Stipulates that all operating licenses granted by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) shall include provisions for the operation of such nuclear reactors in the event of a nuclear reactor emergency as defined by the Commission. Title II: Notification of Public Authorities - Requires operators of any nuclear reactor subject to licensing by the NRC to notify the NRC of the occurrence of any nuclear reactor emergency at a nuclear reactor for which they are the operators. Title III: Emergency Operation and Supervision of Nuclear Reactors - Authorizes and directs the NRC to assume direct responsibility for the operation of a nuclear reactor in the event that the NRC is informed or determines that a nuclear reactor emergency exists. Title IV: Emergency Plans - Directs the Nuclear Reactor Emergency Commission to prepare an analysis of all nuclear accident and malfunctions which have occurred at civilian nuclear reactors. Requires the Commission, based on such analysis, to submit proposals to Congress, and prepare model emergency plans for use by State and local authorities. Title V: Authorization of Appropriations - Authorizes to be appropriated such funds as may be necessary to carry out the duties of the Nuclear Reactor Emergency Commission. Title VI: Expiration of Authority of the Nuclear Reactor Emergency Commission - Terminates the authority of the Nuclear Reactor Emergency Commission under this Act two years from the date of enactment of this Act. Title VII: Conforming Provisions - Stipulates that this Act supercedes all existing provisions of law.
United States · United States Congress · 2 April 1979
Amends title XVI (Supplemental Security Income for the Aged, Blind, and Disabled) of the Social Security Act to provide that an individual who applies for supplemental security income benefits on the basis of disability shall be considered presumptively disabled if he has received disability insurance benefits under title II (Old-Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act or supplemental security income benefits as a disabled individual within five years of his most recent application for supplementary security income benefits. Provides that benefits paid to an individual who is considered presumptively disabled under this Act will be considered overpayments if such individual is ultimately determined not to be disabled in fact.
United States · United States Congress · 29 March 1979
Amends the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to include discrimination of the physically handicapped as an unlawful employment practice. Permits such discrimination pursuant to a bona fide seniority or merit system or as a bona fide occupational qualification.
United States · United States Congress · 28 March 1979
Asbestos School Hazard Detection and Control Act of 1979 - States the purposes of this Act to be to: (1) establish a Federal task force to ascertain the extent of the danger from asbestos materials in schools to children or employees; (2) require States to establish programs for asbestos inspection in schools; (3) provide scientific and technical assistance to States and local school boards; (4) provide loans for the mitigation of serious asbestos hazards in schools; (5) assure that no disciplinary action be taken against employees for calling attention to such hazards; and (6) require certain persons involved in mining, refining, or importing asbestos used in construction material to reimburse the Federal Government for a share of the costs of the asbestos program conducted under this Act. Establishes the Asbestos Hazards School Safety Task Force. States that such Task Force's duties shall include: (1) compiling and disseminating medical, scientific, and technical materials to State and local entities; (2) reviewing and approving State applications for grants and loans; and (3) assisting in formulating standards and safety procedures. Requires State educational agencies which seek administrative funds to submit to the Secretary a plan which: (1) describes the manner such State shall disseminate information on the health hazards of asbestos fibers; (2) describes the content of such information; and (3) describes the procedures to be used by the State in maintaining records on asbestos. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to local educational agencies for the Federal share of the costs of carrying out an asbestos detection program meeting the standards of this Act. Prohibits the making of such grants unless an application has been submitted to and approved by the Secretary after consultation with the task force. Authorizes the Secretary to allocate up to 20 percent of such asbestos detection funds for use in education and technical assistance programs. Requires recipients of such asbestos detection funds to file a report with the Secretary describing detection and testing activities undertaken, the results, and the plan for correcting any discovered asbestos hazards. Establishes an Asbestos Hazards Control Loan Program in the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare. Stipulates that loans from such program shall be: (1) available only to correct imminent asbestos hazards in schools to school children or school employees; (2) limited to projects covering more than 2,500 square feet; (3) for a period not exceeding 20 years; and (4) interest free. Requires applications for such loans to describe: (1) the nature of the asbestos problem; (2) the results of preliminary testing; and (3) the methods to be used to correct such problem. Requires the Secretary to report annually to the appropriate House and Senate committees regarding such loan program. Directs the Secretary to promulgate and distribute to the States safety standards and procedures for testing the level of asbestos in schools, for determining the likelihood of the leakage of asbestos into the school environment, and for determining which contractors are qualified to carry out testing and evaluation procedures. Stipulates that no employer receiving funds under this Act shall discharge or discriminate against any worker who focuses public attention on an asbestos problem in his or her school district. Stipulates that nothing in this Act shall restrict any other legal rights in connection with the purchase or installation of asbestos materials in schools, or with any claim of disability or death from exposure to asbestos in a school setting.
United States · United States Congress · 28 March 1979
Nuclear Waste Management Act of 1979 - Title I: Definitions; Declarations of Findings and Purposes - Declares that the purposes of this Act are to establish an independent agency to be known as the Nuclear Waste Management Authority which shall have sole responsibility for the decontamination, storage, and disposal of all nuclear wastes as well as surplus, obsolete, or abandoned radioactive facilities, to provide for the conduct by the Secretary of Energy and by the Authority of such basic and applied research as may be necessary for the Authority to exercise its responsibilities, to direct the Environmental Protection Agency to promulgate health and safety standards with respect to ionizing emissions from radioactive substances, and to direct the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to license the siting, design, and construction of nuclear waste facilities. Title II: The Nuclear Waste Management Authority - Creates the Nuclear Waste Management Authority as an independent executive agency. Requires the Director of the Authority to establish a plan, together with cost estimates and an analysis of the social and environmental impacts, for the temporary and permanent treatment and disposal of all nuclear wastes, as well as of obsolete, surplus, or abandoned radioactive facilities and sites which have resulted from the use of nuclear energy since January 1, 1940. Requires the Director to establish and operate nuclear waste facilities and to establish programs for the treatment and disposal of nuclear wastes. Requires the establishment of fees or user charges for the use of nuclear waste facilities or nuclear treatment and disposal programs. Requires the Department of Defense, the Department of Energy, and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to furnish the Director with a complete inventory of all nuclear wastes, nuclear fuels, radioactive materials, and facilities and sites in their possession or in private ownership under their control or license. Requires the Director to report to the President, the Congress, and the International Atomic Energy Agency annually concerning any substantial loss of nuclear fuel or waste. Directs the Board of the authority, in association with specified agencies, to undertake a study to: (1) determine an inventory of existing nuclear waste, radioactive facilities, and radioactive sites; (2) estimate the quantity and types of such wastes, facilities, and sites that will exist on January 1, 2000, and on January 1, 2020; and (3) determine the amount of waste that is anticipated to be generated by the facilities so described. Directs the Board of the Authority to: (1) determine the number of nuclear waste facilities which would be required to be in operation by January 1, 2000, and by January 1, 2020, to store or otherwise permanently dispose of the nuclear wastes, radioactive facilities, and radioactive materials from radioactive sites, and the approximate storage capacity of each such facility; (2) determine the types of technology that should be used at such facilities and the design of such facilities; (3) determine the appropriate construction schedules and estimated cost for constructing and operating such facilities; (4) identify all potential sites for such facilities and rank such sites in order of preference; (5) determine a fee schedule sufficient to cover any costs incurred by the Authority for the storage of nuclear wastes; (6) determine the period of time and establish guidelines specifying procedures applicable to the isolation and transportation of nuclear wastes to such storage facilities; (7) determine whether nuclear fuel should be reprocessed; (8) determine appropriate methods for decommissioning radioactive facilities and sites; (9) determine whether the Federal Government should continue to license utilization , production and reprocessing facilities in the event that disapproval of radioactive waste storage sites creates a shortage of storage capacity; and (10) determine the types of minor changes in the Plan which the Authority could make without congressional consent. Provides for public hearings in each State affected by the proposed facilities. Provides that a Governor may disapprove the Director's selection of any site for a nuclear waste facility located within the Governor's State. Directs the Director to designate such sites as are necessary to process, store, and permanently dispose of the nuclear waste, radioactive facilities, and radioactive materials from radioactive sites which will exist or for which construction or operating licenses have been issued prior to the expiration of four years from the date of enactment of this Act, even if such sites have been disapproved by the appropriate Governor. Allows the Director access at any time to all nuclear wastes, nuclear waste facilities, and surplus, obsolete, or abandoned radioactive facilities. Title III: Research and Development - Directs the Secretary of Energy and the Authority to undertake all research and development necessary for the design of methods for the operation, construction, and decommissioning of nuclear waste facilities, as well as for the transportation, processing, storage, and disposal of nuclear wastes and the decontamination or decommissioning of surplus, obsolete, or abandoned radioactive facilities and sites. Title IV: Powers of the Environmental Protection Agency - Directs the Environmental Protection Agency to determine and promulgate such standards as will be necessary to protect the health and safety of humans and other living beings from hazardous exposure to ionizing emissions from radioactive substances and materials. Directs the Agency to determine those conditions under which the migration of nuclear wastes and materials from radioactive facilities and nuclear waste facilities shall constitute a hazard or danger to the health and safety of future generations. Directs the Agency to submit such standards to the President, the Congress, and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission within one year of enactment of this Act and to report every five years concerning the necessity for revising such standards or the necessity for further research. Title V: Powers of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission - Stipulates that the Nuclear Regulatory Commission shall have licensing and related regulatory authority with regard to the operation of existing or future nuclear waste facilities, the transportation, processing, storage, and disposal of nuclear wastes, and the decontamination and decommission of surplus, obsolete, or abandoned radioactive facilities and sites. Directs the Commission every ten years to review licenses granted under this Act to determine whether the original conditions and provisions are sufficient to assure the health and safety of present and future generations in light of the advancement of knowledge since the date of issuance. Title VI: Transfers of Authority - Transfers the functions, powers, authorizations for appropriations, appropriations, and duties of the Department of Energy relating to nuclear wastes and waste facilities to the Authority. Transfers all regulatory and licensing powers and functions of the Environmental Protection Agency with regard to the disposal of nuclear wastes or radioactive materials in any body of water to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Title VII: Authorizations of Appropriations and Reports - Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as are necessary to provide for the establishment of the Authority and for its continued operation. Requires the Director of the Authority, the Secretary of Energy, the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Chairman of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to make a report to the President at the end of each fiscal year for submission to the Congress concerning their activities under this Act. Requires that such report include a detailed statement of goals, expenditures, plans and income projected for the ensuing two years. Title VIII: Separability and Consistency with Existing Laws - Stipulates that nothing in the Atomic Energy Act or contained in any other applicable law of the United States shall supervene or take precedence over the provisions of this Act. Stipulates that if any portion of this Act or its application shall be declared invalid the other provisions of this Act or their application shall not be affected.
United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1979
Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce, for the purpose of easing the economic effects of the termination of defense contracts, to guarantee loans to defense contractors or subcontractors which have been designated by the President's Inter-Agency Economic Adjustment Committee as being eligible for such loan guarantees. Stipulates that such loan guarantees shall be for the purpose of retooling, adjusting production lines, or otherwise altering a business as a result of the termination of a defense contract. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants for economic adjustment planning for areas about to experience a rise in unemployment or other economic adjustment problems caused by a military base closure or realignment. Requires the Secretary of Defense or the Secretary of the military department concerned to notify the Committee of any proposed closure or realignment of a military base at least one year before such action is to be taken. Requires the head of any agency to notify the Committee at least one year in advance of the termination of a defense contract of more than $1,000,000. Transfers the defense economic adjustment functions of the Secretary of Defense to the President to be carried out by the Committee. Transfers the personnel and unexpended balances of the Office of Economic Adjustment in the Department to the Committee. Amends the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949 to authorize the Administrator of General Services to sell or lease real property which has become surplus as a result of a base closure or realignment to any State or subdivision thereof. Requires that such property be utilized for an economic development program.
United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1979
Amends the Commodity Credit Corporation Act to designate the Commodity Credit Corporation as the seller or marketing agent for all export sales of wheat, feed grains, rice, and soybeans in raw form. Authorizes the Board of Directors, acting as the National Grain Board, to negotiate such export sales, to barter such commodities for other goods, to accept purchase bids from foreign purchasers, and to offer selling bids in the world market. Permits the Corporation to acquire commodities on the domestic market to meet the objectives of this Act, and to establish reserves to meet future export sales.
United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1979
Peace Corps Reform Act - Amends the Peace Corps Act to restate the purpose of such Act to be to assist interested countries in meeting basic living needs, strengthening development programs, furthering a spirit of voluntary action, and promoting a better understanding by and of the American people. Creates the Peace Corps as a government corporation, with authority for operations vested in a presidentially appointed Board of Directors. Establishes in the Peace Corps an Advisory Council to evaluate Corps policies and programs. Directs the Peace Corps to encourage host governments to establish advisory councils to advise Peace Corps Country Directors and host country government officials on Corps operating procedures. Requires the Board (formerly the President) to appoint the Director of the Peace Corps. Directs the Corps to coordinate programs with other volunteer and development organizations. Repeals specified provisions of the Peace Corps Act which empower the President and Secretary of State to carry out such Act. Increases from $125 to $150 the readjustment allowance for Peace Corps volunteers. Prohibits the assignment of volunteers to the clerical staffs of Peace Corps representatives abroad. Prohibits volunteers from serving more than five years in any ten-year period without personal approval from the Director. Requires the Corps to encourage volunteers to continue their contributions to good will and development by assisting in the readjustment of, and utilization of skills developed by, former volunteers. Includes spouses living with volunteers as eligible to receive living and other allowances, health care, language training, and other benefits. Eliminates the position of "volunteer leaders" from the Peace Corps and makes conforming amendments to the Internal Revenue Code. Amends the Domestic Volunteers Service Act of 1973 to eliminate one of the two Associate Directors of ACTION.
United States · United States Congress · 13 March 1979
Mobile Teachers' Retirement Assistance Act - Establishes a Federal-State program to permit teachers to perform out-of-State educational service without loss of retirement benefits for such service. Entitles a qualified State retirement system which credits a teacher for out-of-State service, to Federal aid of 50 percent of the total cost to the system of such out-of-State credit. Specifies the requirements which a State retirement system must meet in order to qualify for Federal aid under this program. Limits the amount of the Federal aid to a State retirement system to provide not more than ten years of out-of-State service credit. Directs the Commissioner of Education to make a grant to each qualified State retirement system of an amount equal to two percent of such system's Federal aid received under this Act for the costs of administration.
United States · United States Congress · 13 March 1979
Elephant Protection Act of 1979 - Directs the President to propose to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species that all trade in elephant products be suspended until large and healthy elephant populations have been reestablished and are biologically stable. Prohibits the importation into or exportation from the United States of elephant products. Prohibits the possession, transportation, or sale of such products. Provides for administration of this Act by the Secretary of the Interior. Authorizes the Secretary to grant permits for scientific purposes or to enhance elephant propagation. Prescribes the conditions for granting of such permits. Sets forth civil and criminal penalties for violations of this Act. Authorizes the payment of rewards to persons furnishing information concerning violations of this Act. Grants specified search and seizure powers for enforcement of this Act by authorized persons. Preempts any incompatible State laws.
United States · United States Congress · 8 March 1979
Materials Policy, Research, and Development Act of 1979 - Declares it is the policy of the United States to promote an adequate and stable supply of materials necessary to maintain the national well-being and security. States that the Federal Government should: (1) support basic and applied materials research and development; (2) provide for increased dissemination and effective communication of technical information and data resulting from research and development activities; (3) provide for continuing programs for technically trained personnel necessary for materials research, development, and industrial practice; (4) recommend measures to promote industrial innovations; (5) encourage cooperative research and problem solving by private corporations and Federal and State institutions; and (6) place emphasis on programs in the areas of durability of materials, processing in space, remote sensing from space, and novel, law grade, and abundant sources of materials. Directs the President to submit to the Congress a plan to implement such programs and organizational structures within the executive branch, providing for: (1) policy analysis and decision determination within the Executive Office of the President; (2) private sector consultation and interagency coordination at the cabinet level; (3) recommendations for collection and use of information; and (4) recommendations for legislation to implement materials policy. Requires the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy to carry out a long-range assessment of national materials needs and technologies and to report to Congress. Directs the Federal Coordinating Council for Science, Engineering, and Technology to assist in carrying out the objectives established in this Act. Amends the National Science and Technology Policy, Organization, and Priorities Act of 1976 to require problems involving materials be included in the President's annual Science and Technology Report.
United States · United States Congress · 8 March 1979
National Science Foundation Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1980 - Authorizes appropriations for activities of the National Science Foundation for fiscal year 1980, including the following categories: (1) mathematical and physical sciences and engineering; (2) astronomical, atmospheric, earth, and ocean sciences; (3) United States Antarctic Program; (4) biological, behavioral, and social sciences; (5) science education programs; (6) applied science and research applications; (7) scientific, technological, and international affairs; and (8) program development and management. Limits the transfer of funds from one category to another. Directs the National Science Foundation to develop indices, correlates, or other suitable measures or indicators of the status of scientific instrumentation in the United States and of the current and projected need for scientific and technological instrumentation. Directs the Foundation to conduct a Flood Hazard Mitigation Study and report to Congress, before the 1981 budget submission, specific program recommendations.
United States · United States Congress · 6 March 1979
Congressional Districting Act of 1979 - Specifies that each State entitled to more than one Representative in the 98th or any subsequent Congress shall establish a number of districts equal to the number of Representatives to which that State is entitled. Declares that no district shall differ substantially in population size from another. Requires a five-member redistricting commission to be established in such State which shall conduct public hearings with respect to the boundaries of districts and prepare and submit to the Federal Election Commission a plan for redistricting to be published in the Federal Register. Sets forth judicial procedures to insure compliance with this Act. Authorizes the Federal Election Commission to administer and distribute funds to each State for the purpose of carrying out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 6 March 1979
Alcohol Production Incentive Act of 1979 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a taxpayer to elect an income tax deduction with respect to the amortization, based on a 60-month period, of any qualified facility producing alcohol from coal or biomass for primary use as a substitute for fuel.
United States · United States Congress · 6 March 1979
Amends the Food Stamp Act of 1977 to remove the $75 limit on the excess shelter expense deduction in the computation of household income for households composed entirely of persons who are age 62 or older, or who receive supplemental security income benefits under title XVI of the Social Security Act. Entitles such households to a medical expense deduction to the extent that the monthly amount expended by any such household for medical or dental care exceeds the amount of the standard deduction in effect.
United States · United States Congress · 6 March 1979
Amends the Clean Air Act to direct that any regulations which require a gasoline station to offer unleaded gasoline be amended to require the sale of a blend of unleaded gasoline and alcohol which contains not less than ten percent alcohol. Provides that such requirement shall apply only if it is determined that supplies of such a blend are reasonably available to filling stations. Directs the Secretary of Energy and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to take cooperative action to facilitate expanded production and distribution of alcohol for use as a motor vehicle fuel and fuel additive.
United States · United States Congress · 5 March 1979
Senior Citizens Health Insurance Reform Act of 1979 - Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to institute a program of voluntary certification for health insurance policies sold in supplementation of medicare. Sets forth minimum standards for such certification with respect to liability, cancellation, reasonableness of premium charge, and economic benefit to the insured. Establishes criminal penalties for: (1) misrepresentations in connection with such certification; (2) the sale of specified types of duplicate insurance; and (3) certain activities in connection with the sale of insurance policies in States which have not approved such policies.
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1979
Financial Sponsorship of Immigrants Act - Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to require any immigrant wishing to be admitted into the United States to have a five-year financial sponsorship statement at the time of application for admission. Authorizes the Attorney General to make exemptions to such requirement. Provides that the Attorney General or the sponsored immigrant may bring a civil suit against a sponsor who fails to make payments pursuant to a statement of sponsorship. Provides that a Federal, State, or political subdivision may bring a civil suit against a nonpaying sponsor for reimbursement of welfare payments.
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1979
Makes it unlawful for any person, knowingly or intentionally, to possess, manufacture, distribute, dispense, or unlawfully import, on board a vessel of the United States or a vessel subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, a controlled substance as defined in the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970. Makes it unlawful for a citizen of the United States to engage in such activities on any vessel. Prohibits any person on any vessel, within or without the United States, to attempt or conspire to import or transport a controlled substance into the United States or to attempt or conspire to facilitate the import or transport of such a substance (except as provided by certain Federal law). Makes it unlawful to transfer a controlled substance from any vessel to a vessel of the United States or a vessel subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, either within the territorial seas of the United States or on the high seas. Stipulates that any person who violates this Act shall be sentenced in the same manner as a person would be sentenced for possession of a controlled substance under such Act.